MUNICIPAL CODE
CHAPTER V
PUBLIC SAFETY AND PROTECTION
ARTICLE 7
FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION
(FIRE CODE)
3 Enforcement
4 Permits
6 Certificates of Fitness
7 L.A.F.D. Standards
10 Asbestos Abatement
13 Fire Watch
22 Combustible Decorations
23 Smoking
51 Hazardous Plastics
52 Combustible Metals
54 Flammable Fibers
56 Matches
60 Molten Solids
70 Explosive Materials
71 Unstable Materials
72 Corrosive Materials
73 Oxidizing Materials
74 Toxic Materials
76 Organic Peroxides
80 Spray Painting
81 Dip Tanks
84 Drying Ovens
86 Roofing Kettles
90 Oil Wells
94 Liquefied Flammable Gas Bulk Distributing Stations, Cylinder Filling Plants and
Auto Fueling Stations
105 Auto Wrecking Yards, Junk Yards, and Waste Materials Handling Plants
Section
57.01.01 Title.
57.01.02 Purpose.
57.01.07 Applicability.
General Authority
Official Badge
This article, which is a portion of the “Los Angeles Municipal Code”, shall be known
as the “Los Angeles Fire Code.”
It is the purpose of this article to prescribe laws for the safeguarding of life and
property from fire, explosion, panic, or other hazardous conditions which may arise in the
use or occupancy of buildings, structures, or premises; and to prescribe such other laws as
it may be the duty of the Fire Department to enforce.
The provisions of this article shall apply to existing conditions as well as to new
conditions, except that conditions legally in existence at the adoption of this article and
not in strict compliance therewith shall be permitted to continue unless the Chief
determines they constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.
Nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent the enforcement of other laws
which prescribe more restrictive limitations.
The permissive provisions of this article shall not be presumed to waive any
limitations imposed by any other laws.
If any portion of this article is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by
a court of competent jurisdiction, it shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions
of this Code.
The provisions of this article shall apply to all buildings, structures, or premises
located within this City including the buildings, structures, or premises owned or directly
controlled by the City of Los Angeles, or any County or other municipal or quasi-
municipal corporation or government or any department, commission, board of office
thereof.
The provisions of this article, in so far as they are substantially the same as existing
provisions relating to the same subject matter, shall be construed as restatements and
continuations thereof and not as new enactments.
Neither the City of Los Angeles nor any department, nor any board, commission,
officer, or employee thereof shall be held liable or responsible for any damage or injury
caused by or resulting from any inspection or approval made under the provisions of this
article.
In reading a section number from left to right, the first two digits indicate that this
article is Chapter 5, Article 7, of the Los Angeles Municipal Code. The digits after the
first decimal point and preceding the second decimal point indicate the divisions within
this article. The digits following the second decimal point designate the section numbers
within each division.
Nothing in this division or Code shall prohibit the payment of investigative costs to
the Fire Department by any person so convicted of any provision of this article, to the
Fire Department to restitute said agency for all costs expended to investigate and/or
enforce the provisions of this Code.
GENERAL AUTHORITY
The Chief shall have the authority to issue parking control notices as provided in
Sections 22500, 22500.1, 22514, and 41102 of the State of California Vehicle Code when
an illegally parked vehicle blocks access to a fire hydrant, fire lane, or obstructs access to
or from a fire station.
All costs incurred pursuant to this section shall be a personal obligation against the
person or persons creating, causing, committing, or maintaining the nuisance and the
owner of the property, recoverable by the City in an action before any court of competent
jurisdiction. These costs shall include an amount equal to 40 percent of the cost to
perform the actual work, but not less than the sum of $100.00, to cover the City’s costs
for administering any contract and supervising the work required. In addition to this
personal obligation and all other remedies provided by law, the City may collect any
judgment, fee, cost, or charge, including any permit fees, fines, late charges, or interest,
incurred in relation to the provisions of this section as provided in Los Angeles
Administrative Code Sections 7.35.1 through 7.35.8.
A. The Chief or the officer in charge at any fire, explosion, or other emergency
shall have full power and authority to direct all operations of extinguishing or controlling
the same, and to take the necessary precautions to save life, protect property, and prevent
further injury or damage. In the pursuit of such operations and any ensuing investigation
of the case of such emergency, the Chief may prohibit approach to the scene or such
emergency by any person, vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or thing, and all persons not employed
in the extinguishment of such fire, control of such emergency, or the preservation of lives
and property in the vicinity thereof. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
B. In the conduct of fire fighting operations at emergencies, the Chief shall have the
authority to construct emergency firebreaks, utilize aircraft, evacuate persons from the
area; remove or impound vehicles in the area; close or blockade streets, roads, drives, or
other access ways, both public and private; ignite backfires and conduct backfire
operations; and exercise such other power and authority as will, in his opinion, best serve
to control the emergency.
Police Officers and members of the Department are empowered to erect barriers at
points of access to a fire or other emergency and to prevent any and all persons from
passing through any such barriers, and from entering into any space set apart or enclosed
by means thereof, except persons having a pass as hereinafter specified.
A. The Chief shall have the authority to inspect all buildings, structures, premises,
ships, boats, vessels, aircraft, tanks, vehicles, or the appurtenances and equipment
thereof, as often as may be necessary for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be
corrected any conditions liable to cause fire or explosion or any violation of the
provisions or intent of this article and of any other law affecting the fire hazard not
exclusively enforced by another governmental agency, and to insure compliance with all
laws, regulations, and orders dealing with overcrowding, use of decorative materials,
maintenance of exit ways, and maintenance of private fire alarm and fire detecting
systems and fire extinguishing systems and appliances.
B. The Chief shall have the authority to inspect any contract, policy, agreement,
proof of loss, correspondence, or other written matter pertaining to or in connection with
specific adjustments made or carried on by any person licensed as an insurance adjuster
or private investigator in the State of California.
C. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) The Chief shall have the authority
to require such drawings, plans, or sketches as may be necessary to identify the location
of all the following:
3. Utility controls.
4. Stairwells.
5. Hazardous materials/waste.
The Chief shall have the authority to investigate the cause, origin, and circumstances
of every fire, explosion, or other emergency occurring within the City. When the Chief
finds that a fire, explosion or other emergency is, or may be, the result of a previously
issued notice of hazard or a violation of any law, the Chief shall have the authority to take
charge immediately of all physical evidence in connection therewith.
1. If such property be occupied, the Chief shall first present proper credentials to the
occupant and request entry explaining the reasons therefor; and
2. If such property be unoccupied, the Chief shall first make a reasonable effort to
locate the owner or other persons having charge or control of the property and request
entry, explaining his reasons therefor. If such entry is refused or cannot be obtained
because the owner or other persons having charge or control of the property cannot be
found after due diligence, the Chief shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law
to secure lawful entry and inspect the property.
B. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Chief has reasonable cause to believe that
the building or premises is so hazardous, unsafe or dangerous as to require immediate
inspection to safeguard the public health or safety, the Chief shall have the right to
immediately enter and inspect such property, and may use any reasonable means required
to effect such entry and make such inspection, whether such property be occupied or
unoccupied and whether or not permission to inspect has been obtained. If the property
be occupied, the Chief shall first present proper credentials to the occupant and demand
entry, explaining the reasons therefor and the purpose of the inspection.
A. After a notice of a violation of this article has been issued, sketches may be
made and photographs may be taken, as are found necessary, with permission of the
owner or person in charge or control of the premises.
In enforcing the provisions of this article and such orders, rules and regulations,
variances and standards in connection therewith, the Chief is hereby given the powers of
peace officers. They are empowered to inspect and summarily abate any condition that
constitutes an immediate hazard to life by reason of fire, explosion or panic, or potential
fire, explosion or panic, or otherwise by reason of the presence of hazardous materials.
The Chief of Police and the Chief’s duly authorized representatives shall have the
power and are hereby directed, upon the request of the Chief or the Chief’s
representatives, to assist in the enforcement of the provisions of this article.
SEC. 57.01.28. AUTHORITY TO GRANT VARIANCES AND WAIVERS.
A. The Board shall have the power to grant slight variances from the provisions of
this article; provided that, before authorizing such variances, the Board shall first find
cause therefor in fact in that strict enforcement of this article is impractical, or creates
unnecessary hardship, or is otherwise adjudged unwarranted in each instance. Such
variances must be in conformity with the spirit and purpose of this article and must
secure the public safety.
B. The Board shall have the power to waive any part or all of the provisions of this
article which may apply to a refinery, natural gasoline plant, or laboratory where such is
found to be in an adequately separated installation at which fire protection and
emergency facilities especially adapted to the needs are available and where the Board
determines that by reason of such isolation and protection, the public safety is assured
and no unreasonable hazard will result to persons or property.
C. Each application for a variance or waiver shall be filed at the office of the
Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety and shall be accompanied by such maps,
drawings, letters, statements, and other supporting data as may be required to justify the
request in question. Except when such an application is in conjunction with an
application for a Permit required by Subsection A of Section 57.05.20 of this article, it
shall be accompanied by payment of a fee established by the most current cost recovery
schedule published as provided by Section 57.04.12 of this article. An application for
two or more variances may be filed upon a single application and only one fee shall be
paid, provided that all such variances are located at the same address and are for the same
person. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
D. The Fire Marshal shall cause an investigation to be made of every application for
a variance or waiver. Such investigation shall be made by authorized members of the Fire
Department. At the conclusion of the investigation, the Fire Marshal shall transmit the
application, together with his recommendation, to the Board of Fire Commissioners.
A. The Chief shall have the power to approve alternate materials, design, or
methods of compliance with specifications of this article. Before approving such alternate
materials, design, or methods, the Chief shall find that a proposed alternate materials,
design, or method is satisfactory for the purpose of this article and that the alternate
materials, design, or method is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that
prescribed in this article in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, and
safety. Such approvals are not to be considered variances or waivers. The provisions of
this subsection shall not apply to any appliance, device, or equipment listed in Subsection
A of Section 57.01.35.
B. The approval, by the Department, of plans and specifications required by
Division 5 of this article shall constitute the approval of alternate materials, design, or
methods of compliance set forth in such plans and specifications. Such approval shall not
abrogate any approval required by Chapter 9 of L.A.M.C. for any appliance, device or
equipment.
B. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,996, Eff. 9/24/94.) When determined by the Fire
Marshal, or when requested by an applicant for his own convenience and accepted by the
Fire Marshal, certain approvals may be granted which are not otherwise specifically
required by Section 57.05.10 of this article. In the conduct of the necessary investigation
and tests, preliminary to the granting of such approvals, the Department shall affix a fee
for each four hours, or fraction thereof, devoted to such investigations and tests
established as provided by Section 57.04.12 of this article.
1. Every approval granted in accordance with the provisions of this subsection shall
be valid for a period of three years after the date of granting and may be renewed for
additional three-year periods.
2. Applications for renewal of approvals shall be filed in the same manner as for an
original approval.
4. The granting of a renewal of the approval shall be handled in the same manner as
for an original approval.
A. Whenever the Chief determines that for the safeguarding of life and property
from fire, explosion, panic, or other hazardous conditions which may arise in temporary
operations or occupancies which are not otherwise specified in this article, the Chief may
require and issue a Special Permit stating the conditions for such operation or occupancy.
The Special Permit may be made subject to such terms and conditions as are necessary
for the preservation of life and property.
B. The Chief shall have the power to revoke or suspend any Special Permit, at his
discretion, upon proof to the satisfaction of the Chief of violation by the permittee of the
provisions of this article, the Rules and Regulations of this Department adopted under the
authority of Section 57.01.34 of this article, or the terms and conditions of any Special
Permit as may be specified under the authority of this section. Such revocation or
suspension may be made in accordance with the provisions of Division 3 of this article.
A. Whenever the Chief determines it is essential for the safeguarding of life and
property from fire, explosion, panic, or other hazardous conditions which may arise in the
temporary use of an occupancy and/or premises, he may require one or more Fire Safety
Officers to be present during the activity. No such use of an occupancy or premises shall
proceed without a timely request to the Chief, as provided in this section, for assignment
of a Fire Safety Officer.
1. Whenever the Chief determines that a Uniformed Fire Safety Officer shall be
present, the Department shall collect a fee established by the Board. Said fee shall
constitute the total sum payable from any source for the services of that person. The
Board, with the concurrence of the Director of the Office of Administrative and Research
Services (Amended by Ord. No. 173,363, Eff. 7/29/00, Oper. 7/1/00.), shall determine on
a regular basis the verifiable cost of the City for the Fire Safety Officer. These costs shall
be the actual total cost, as determined by the Board.
2. Whenever the Chief determines that a Certified Fire Safety Officer is required,
payment for the services of said officer shall be paid to the officer by the person engaging
the services of the Certified Fire Safety Officer. For each such Certified Fire Safety
Officer assigned by the Chief, the hourly rate shall be the rate established in the existing
Los Angeles City Fire Department Memorandum of Understanding for Fire Inspector 1.
Said fee shall constitute the total sum payable from any source for the services of that
person. Payment for a Certified Fire Safety Officer shall be based on the following
requirements:
d. Time and one-half for holidays identified by the existing Los Angeles City Fire
Department Memorandum of Understanding for Fire Inspector 1.
B. Assignment of a Fire Safety Officer cannot be assured unless a request is made
to the office of the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety during normal business
hours and not less than 24 hours in advance of need. For weekend assignment or when a
holiday will intervene, the request shall be made 48 hours in advance.
A. The original negative and sound track of any film or tape produced as a part of
the public fire safety education program by the department may, by order of the Board,
be filed with the Chief, and copies thereof may be issued only upon the payment of the
fees or pursuant to contract as provided in this section.
B. The Board may, by resolution or by contract, establish the fees to be paid to the
Department for the obtaining of copies of films, tapes and sound tracks. Fees shall be
calculated on the basis of actual cost incurred in the production of such original films,
tapes, and sound tracks, including the pro rata cost of reproduction and distribution of
copies thereof, based upon the estimated number of copies that might be applied for, or
upon any other reasonable formula the Board may determine.
C. Moneys derived from the sale, distribution, or rental of such films, tapes, and
sound tracks shall be paid into the General Fund of the City as Departmental receipts.
D. All contracts entered into by the Board pursuant to the provision of this section
shall first be submitted to and approved by the City Attorney.
A. The Chief shall have the power to make and enforce such rules and regulations
for the purpose of prevention and control of fires and fire or explosion hazards, as may be
necessary to carry out the purposes and intent of this article.
A. Installation, alteration, and major repair of the items listed in this subsection
shall be performed under permit of the Department of Building and Safety when a permit
is required by that Department for such work.
3. Automatic elevators.
6. Fire escapes.
8. Fire assemblies.
10. Pilot lights and warning lights for heat- producing equipment.
7. Spray booths, spray tunnels, dip tanks, drying ovens, flow coaters, powder
coating apparatus and electrostatic painting equipment.
C. If at any time the items listed in Subsections A and B of this section are not
operational, the Chief shall have the authority to issue notices to the owner of the
building or premises where said items are located, or such other person having control of
said building or premises, to make said items operational.
The Chief has the authority to require that periodic inspections and tests be made to
determine whether the items listed in Subsections A and B of this section, including any
water supply, are operational. All such inspections and tests shall be made at intervals to
be determined by the Chief. Tests at shorter intervals may be required when an
inspection by the Chief indicates there is a substantial reason to believe that the system or
device would fail to operate properly in an emergency.
The inspections and test shall be made in accordance with the rules and regulations
established by the Board.
E. The failure of any person owning or having control of any items in Subsections
A and B of this section to properly maintain said items at all times, or the failure of any
person owning or having control of those items to conduct a test to determine that the
systems referred to in A and B are operational, or the failure to obey any order of the
Chief issued pursuant to this section, subjects that person to a penalty of a mandatory
minimum fine of $500.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this code is committed,
continued or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
A. The Chief shall have the authority to condemn the use of any appliance, device,
equipment, system, or material regulated by this article which creates a hazard to life or
property, or which fails to provide the protection for which it was intended.
B. The Chief shall have the authority to prohibit the manufacture, sale, or offering
for sale, of any appliance, device, equipment, system or material regulated by this article
which may create a hazard to life or property, or which fails to provide the protection for
which it is intended. No person shall remove, alter, destroy, mutilate, or deface any
Condemnation Tag affixed to any appliance, device, equipment, system or material,
pursuant to the authority of the Chief, until such time as the hazardous condition is
corrected to the satisfaction of the Chief.
A. The Board is authorized to issue approved passes entitling the holders thereof to
pass Fire Department barriers. Such passes shall bear a number and a statement of the
purpose of issuance, together with the words “Los Angeles Fire Department”.
C. Abuse of Passes: Every pass presented for admittance beyond a Fire Department
barrier by any person not entitled to the privilege accorded thereby shall be collected by
the Chief or any police officer, and all such passes so collected shall be immediately
returned to the Board. No unauthorized person shall enter or refuse to leave the area
officialIy closed off by any Department barrier.
D. Government Officials: The duly authorized official badge or iden- tification card
of any government officer or employee who is required to pass through a Department
barrier in the performance of duty shall entitle such person to pass through such barrier.
The Chief is hereby authorized to furnish and use supplies, equipment, or apparatus,
and assign regular members of the Department, for the protection or preservation of life,
property, and public welfare in the City in any emergency or rescue operation, provided
such use or assignment will not interfere with nor hinder the performance of the Charter
functions of the Department. The Chief shall have the power to make and enforce rules
and regulations, in accordance with Section 57.01.34, for the use of such supplies,
equipment, or apparatus, and for the assignment of members of the Department in
emergencies or rescue operations as are necessary to carry out the purposes and intent of
this article.
The Chief shall have the authority to establish a list of hazardous materials and/or to
adopt, by reference, nationally recognized documents listing hazardous materials as may
be necessary to carry out the purpose and intent of this article. Hazardous materials shall
be defined as set forth in Division 2 of this article.
FIRE CODE REVISION
The Chief shall report to the Board from time to time as necessary, recommending
revisions of this article. Such recommendations may be based upon, but not limited to,
studies of the following:
D. Investigation of fires.
The Chief shall establish a Fire Code Advisory Committee which shall consist of: the
Fire Marshal, who shall serve as chairperson; and representatives from industry, business,
and other governmental agencies as may be determined from time to time by the Chief.
The purpose of the Fire Code Advisory Committee shall be to assist the Chief in any
revision of this article by submitting recommendations.
OFFICIAL BADGE
The official badge of the Los Angeles Fire Department is hereby established as that
badge adopted by the Board by Resolution No. 189, on June 12, 1941, provided,
however, that for the period of January 1,1986 through and including December 31,
1986, the official badge of the Los Angeles Fire Department shall be that badge adopted
by Resolution No. 759 on November 21,1985 by the Board as the Centennial Badge of
the Los Angeles Fire Department.
It shall be unlawful for any person to wear, display, or have in his or her possession
any such badge unless that person is a member of the Department, employed to perform
the duty of extinguishing or preventing or investigating fires, or providing an emergency
ambulance service. The members of the Board, while actively serving as such under valid
appointment, are members of the Department within the meaning of this section.
EXCEPTION:
The Board may adopt a design of badge, upon which the word “RETIRED” shall
clearly appear, which may be worn by members of the Department who have been
honorably retired from active duty by reason of length of service or physical disability.
No person who is not a regular member of the Department shall wear, display, or have
in his or her possession any official badge or one which resembles or may be mistaken
for the official badge, or which is calculated to indicate that he or she is a member of the
Department.
No official badge, or badge of any design indicating a connection with the Los
Angeles Fire Department shall be issued to any person as an honorarium.
All badges and uniform insignia shall remain the property of the City. Every person
receiving such property shall be required to personally sign a receipt therefor, and the
receipt shall set forth an agreement to reimburse the City in the event of loss for the
standard cost price as determined from time to time by the Board.
No person shall manufacture, make, sell, design, or transfer any official Fire
Department badge except upon the official order of the Fire Department’s custodian of
badges. The manufacturer shall deliver manufactured badges only to said custodian and
may manufacture only the number of badges authorized by that person. Nothing herein
shall be considered as affecting the manner in which contracts for the purchase of badges
by the City shall be awarded as provided in the City Charter.
1. Cause a member’s badge and number to be retired from active service and use.
C. No person shall remove from the plaque or frame any badge presented under this
section, or wear such a badge, or display it, except while it is attached to the plaque or
within the frame, with the above-prescribed statement clearly visible. Any badge
removed, worn, or displayed in violation of this subsection shall be subject to
confiscation by the Board.
DIVISION 2
GENERAL DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Section
57.02.01 Scope.
57.02.03 Abbreviations.
The provisions of this division set forth definitions of words, phrases, and
abbreviations found elsewhere in this article.
The following words and phrases, whenever used in this article, shall be construed as
defined in this section unless the context within individual divisions of this article clearly
indicates otherwise.
Aircraft – A device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air.
Aircraft Factory – Any building or structure used partly or entirely for the
manufacturing or assembling of aircraft.
Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicle – Any tank vehicle used for the transferring of
flammable or combustible liquids to or from fuel tanks or compartments of aircraft.
Airport – An area of land or water, including all associated land and facilities, that is
used or intended to be used for the landing and takeoff of aircraft.
Air-Reactive Material – Any material which will ignite spontaneously in contact with
air.
Aisle – A passageway of at least three feet in width which provides access to required
exits, fire protection equipment, or separation for a storage area.
Apartment House – Any building or portion thereof which contains three or more
dwelling units or space thereof, regardless of form or ownership.
2. The showing of motion pictures when an admission fee is charged and when such
building or premises is open to the public and has a capacity of 10 or more persons, or
Auto Fueling Station – Any lot or parcel of land or portion thereof used partly or
entirely for dispensing flammable liquids, combustible liquids, liquefied flammable gas
or flammable gas from an approved dispensing apparatus into the fuel tanks of motor
vehicles or approved portable containers.
Auxiliary Fuel Tank – A tank used for fuel for a combustion engine, other than the
one supplied by the manufacturer of such engine.
Balcony, Exterior Exit – A landing or porch projecting from the wall of a building
which serves as an exit. The long side of an exterior exit balcony shall be at least 50
percent open.
Barbecue Device – Any device using charcoal or other fuels in the open for the
purpose of heating, cooking or pleasure.
Barge – Any vessel used for storing, handling, or transporting hazardous materials
within the limits of the Harbor of the City.
Barrier – Any rope or other barricade placed across a street, sidewalk, or other place.
Batch Process Oven – Any drying oven into which the work charge is introduced all at
one time so that the vaporization of flammable volatiles within the oven is not at a
constant rate.
Blasting – The use of explosives for the purpose of removing or demolishing buildings
or structures, or portions thereof, rock or earth dislocations, object fragmentation, tree or
stump removal or other authorized uses but excepting tunneling operations where the face
of the tunnel is 25 feet or more from the tunnel mouth, and mining operations where the
foot of the shaft is 25 feet or more below ground level.
Blasting Agent – Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer, intended
for blasting, not otherwise classified as an explosive, in which none of the ingredients are
classified as an explosive, provided that the finished product, as mixed and packaged for
use or shipment, cannot be detonated by means of a No. 8 blasting cap when unconfined.
Boiling Point – The temperature at which a liquid is rapidly converted to a vapor when
at a pressure of 14.7 psia.
Building Department – The Department of Building and Safety of the City of Los
Angeles.
Bulk Distributing Station – Any distributing station for hazardous materials with a
loading rack which is not an integral part of a refined natural gasoline plant, marine oil
terminal, or crude petroleum producing or pipeline operation.
Capacity – The maximum volume of any tank, vessel, container, receptacle or cylinder
in U.S. gallons or pounds.
Cargo Tank – Any atmospheric tank, low pressure tank, pressure vessel or special
vessel designed or used for the transportation of liquid or gaseous hazardous materials.
Cellulose Nitrate Film – Motion picture, X-ray, and sound recording film coated on a
base consisting essentially of cellulose nitrate. The terms “Cellulose Nitrate
Film,” “Nitrate Film,” or “Nitro-Cellulose Film” shall be synonymous. This film may be
in the form of unexposed film positives, negatives, leaders, scrap or used film.
Chief – The Chief Engineer of the Fire Department or his or her authorized
representative.
Child or Children – A person or persons under the age of 18 years and not classified as
an infant.
Christmas Tree Area – Any premises where Christmas trees are sold, offered for sale,
displayed for sale, or stored pending sale or disposal of such trees.
Church – Any building or premises used as a place of assemblage for public worship
or meditation.
Combustible Liquid – A liquid having a flash point at or above 100° F. and classified
as follows:
Class II liquids with a flash point at or above 100° F. and below 140° F.
Class IIIA liquids with a flash point at or above 140° F. and below 200° F.
Class IIIB liquids with a flash point at or above 200° F. but not above 1500° F.
Combustible Material – Any material which will ignite and continue to burn when
exposed for a period of five minutes or less to a temperature of 1500° F.
Compressed Gas – Any confined gas which is under a pressure in excess of 15 psig at
ambient temperature.
Container – Any vessel of 60 U.S. gallons or less capacity used for transporting or
storing liquids.
Continuous Process Oven – Any drying oven into which the work charge is
continually introduced, so that the rate of vaporization of flammable vapors within the
oven approaches a constant rate.
Controlled Drilling Site – That particular location upon which surface operation
incident to oil well drilling or deepening may be permitted under the terms of this article
subject to the written determination by the Zoning Administrator prescribing conditions.
A controlled drilling site must lie entirely within one or more of the districts described in
Section 13.01 of the L.A.M.C.
Corrosive Material – Any acid, alkaline, caustic or other liquid or solid material
which, when in contact with living tissue, will cause damage to such tissue by chemical
action, or which may cause fire when in contact with other materials.
Cross Aisle – A passageway connecting two or more exit aisles that provides access to
a required exit.
Cylinder Filling Plant – Any lot or parcel of land or portion thereof used for the
purpose of filling portable pressure vessels with liquefied flammable gas, flammable gas
or other gas which is defined as a toxic material, oxidizing material or unstable material.
Day Care – The care of persons during any period of a 24-hour day where permanent
sleeping accommodations are not provided. “Day Care” shall not be construed to
preclude the use of cots or mats for napping purposes provided all employees, attendants,
and staff personnel are awake and on duty in the area where napping occurs during such
napping periods.
Direct Fire Oven – Any drying oven in which the products of combustion and open
flame heating elements enter the oven chamber.
Dispensing – The pouring or transferring of any material from a con- tainer, tank, or
similar vessel whereby vapors, dusts, fumes, mists, or gases may be liberated to the
atmosphere.
Domestic Installation – Any liquefied flammable gas tank piping valves, regulators
and other appurtenances, operating as a single unit and serving a dwelling.
Dry Cleaning Plant – Any building, premises or room in which the actions of dry
cleaning or dyeing are performed frequently or regularly, whether as a primary business
or as an accessory operation useful or necessary to some other business.
Dwelling – Any building or portion thereof which contains not more than two
dwelling units.
Dwelling Unit – Any building or portion thereof which contains living facilities,
including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation for not more than one
family.
Exit – A prescribed means of egress to a public way. Exits shall include intervening
aisles, doors, doorways, corridors, exterior exit balconies, ramps, stairways, smokeproof
enclosures, horizontal exits, exit passageways, exit courts and yards.
Exit Court – A yard or court providing access to a public way for one or more required
exits.
Explosive Material – Any chemical compound, mixture or device, the primary and
common purpose of which is to function by explosion with substantially simultaneous
release of gas and heat, the resultant pressure being capable of producing destructive
effects. Explosive materials shall be divided into three classes as follows:
False Alarm - An alarm signal eliciting an emergency response from fire service
personnel when a situation requiring such response does not, in fact, exist. (Added by
Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
EXCEPTION:
Alarm signal caused by conditions of nature (i.e., earthquake, flood, wind, etc.),
verifiable power outage, telephone service problems, or any nonmalicious accidental
occurrence.
Film Vault – A vault approved for storage of cellulose nitrate film, constructed in
accordance with the requirements of the Building Department.
Fire Alarm System – A fire protective signaling system which transmits and emits
signals indicating an emergency requiring immediate action to safeguard life or property
from fire.
Fire Assembly – The assembly of a fire door, fire window, fire curtain, fire shutters, or
fire damper including all required hardware, anchorage, frames, and sills.
Firebreak – Any area which is cleared of combustible vegetation to control the spread
of fire.
Fire Buffer Zone – Any area within the City which has been specificalIy set aside by
law as a Fire Buffer Zone.
Fire Department Access – The way or approach reserved for the Department to gain
entry or by which the Department enters any facility, structure, group of structures, or
premises including any required fire lane for Department apparatus.
Fire Escape – A secondary exit attached to the exterior wall of a building that is two or
more stories in height and which provides emergency egress from the building. Fire
escapes may include, but are not limited to, stairs, railings, landings, and ladders.
Fire Hazard – Any condition, arrangement, or act which increases the likelihood of
fire to a greater degree than is recognized as acceptable practice by the Department or
which may provide a ready fuel supply to augment the spread or intensity of a fire, or
which may obstruct, delay, hinder, or interfere with the operations of the Department or
the egress of occupants in the event of fire.
Fire Protection System – Any fire alarm device or system, fire extinguishing device or
system, or their combination for the premises, which is designed and installed for
detecting, controlling, or extinguishing a fire or otherwise alerting occupants of the
premises that a fire is in progress or has occurred.
Fire Retardant – Any chemical formulation, paint, coating, or other finish which
reduces the surface flamespread rating and reduces or eliminates combustible
characteristics of the treated material.
Fire Safety – Includes fire prevention, fire detection, fire control, fire extinguishment,
and fire investigation.
B. Certified Fire Safety Officer - A person approved and assigned by the Chief to
perform the duties of a Fire Safety Officer. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)
Fireworks – Any toy pistols, toy cannons, toy canes or toy guns in which explosive
materials are used, fire balloons (Balloons of a type which have burning material of any
kind attached thereto or which require fire underneath to propel them), firecrackers,
torpedoes, skyrockets, rockets, roman candles, dago bombs, sparklers, or other devices
containing any combustible or explosive substance for the purpose of producing a visible
or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation, but not to include
toy pistols, toy canes, toy guns, or other similar devices in which paper caps containing
not more than twenty-five hundredths (.25) grain of explosive compound per cap are
used.
Flame Thrower – Any portable device which is designed to throw, toss, fling, project,
or propel flammable material, ignited with an igniter, intended to be ignited or otherwise
toward or to an aiming point or auxiliary aiming point.
Flammable Dust – Any solid material sufficiently comminuted for suspension in air
which, when so suspended, is capable of self-sustained combustion.
Flammable Fibre – Any free burning material in a fibrous or shredded form including
but not limited to cotton, sisal, rayon, henequen, istle, jute, hemp, tow, coca fibre, oakum,
kapok, spanish moss, excelsior, and shredded paper.
Flammable Gas - Any gas having a flammability range greater than one percent (by
volume) with air.
Flammable Liquid – Any liquid having a flash point below 100° F. and having a vapor
pressure not exceeding 40 pounds per square inch (absolute) at 100° F. Class I liquids
shall be classified as follows:
Class IA liquids having flash points below 73° F. and boiling points below 100° F.
Class IB liquids having flash points below 73° F. and boiling points at or above 100°
F.
Class IC liquids having flash points at or above 73° F. and below 100° F.
Flammable Material – Any material included under the definitions flammable solid,
flammable dust, flammable fibre, flammable liquid, flammable gas and liquefied
flammable gas.
Flammable Range – The difference between the lower and upper flammable limits,
expressed in terms of percentage, by volume of gas or vapor in air.
Flash Point – The minimum temperature at which a liquid gives out vapors in
sufficient concentrations to form an ignitible mixture with air near the surface of the
liquid within the vessel as specified by appropriate test procedures in accordance with the
provisions of L.A.F.D. Standards No. 33, 34, and 35.
Fogging – The use of insecticidal liquids which have been passed through thermal
fog-generating units, where, by means of heat, pressure and turbulence, they are
transformed and discharged in the form of fog or mist.
Fuel Tank – A container used solely for the purpose of supplying flammable or
combustible liquid as a fuel to an internal combustion engine.
Fumigant – Any liquid, gas or solid, from which a flammable or toxic gas or vapor is
produced, when used or intended to be used in fumigation.
EXCEPTIONS:
Ant pastes, fly sprays, and other insecticidal liquids having a flash point of 100° F. or
above are not deemed to be fumigants within the above definition, unless sprayed or
otherwise released in an atomized or vapor form from a container exceeding one gallon
capacity.
Fumigation – The use of a fumigant in gas or vapor form to eliminate any organism,
whether animal or plant, and whether performed in the open, under a tarpaulin or inside a
chamber, room, building, box car, ship, or elsewhere.
Gas Holder – Any variable volume container having a maximum capacity of not less
than 100 cubic feet, used for the storage of gas at pressures of not more than one psig.
Grade (Adjacent Ground Elevation) – The lowest point of elevation of the finished
surface of the ground, paving, or sidewalk within the area between the building and the
property line, or when the property line is more than five feet from the building, the
lowest point of elevation between the building and a line five feet from the building.
Group Drill Site – The surface arrangement and location of two or more oil wells in
the manner and subject to the conditions specified by the Department.
Guest Room – Any room or rooms used or intended to be used by a guest for sleeping
purposes only. Every 100 square feet of gross floor area in a dormitory shall be
considered to be a guest room.
Hangar – Any building or structure used partly or entirely for storing or parking any
aircraft.
Hazardous Anesthetizing Area – Any area from the floor level to a level of five feet
above the floor in a surgery or other location where anesthetics are administered.
Hazardous Material – Any material included under the definitions of Air Reactive
Material, Combustible Liquid, Corrosive Material, Explosive Material, Flammable
Material, Organic Peroxide, Oxidizing Material, Radioactive Material, Toxic Material,
Unstable Material, or Water-Reactive Material, and any substance or mixture of
substances which is an irritant, a sensitizer, or which generates pressure through exposure
to heat, decomposition, or other means.
Hazardous Materials Room – A room used for the storage and incidental dispensing of
hazardous materials except those classified as explosive materials and which is built in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
Hazardous Plastic – Any plastic material or compound, other than cellulose nitrate
film, containing cellulose nitrate consisting of 10.7 percent to 12.2 percent nitration and
any material which consists of, or contains as an essential ingredient, an organic
substance of large molecular weight, and which is commonly known as a plastic material.
Hazardous Refuse – Any combustible material including but not limited to, rubbish,
trash, debris, litter, scrap lumber, or sweepings that could provide a ready fuel supply to
augment the spread or intensity of a fire.
Head and Bulkhead – A liquid-tight transverse closure at the end of a cargo tank or
between compartments of a cargo tank.
Health Care Facility Instructor – A person who conducts training classes as approved
by the Department, for hospitals and/or sanitariums, and who issues, on behalf of the
Department, certificates for completion of “Fire/Life Safety” training in the City of Los
Angeles.
Heliport – An area of land, water, or structure used or intended to be used for the
landing and takeoff of helicopters.
High-Rise Building, New – A building over 75 feet in height which is subject to the
provisions of California Administrative Code, Title 24, Chapter 2-18, Section 2-1807,
and Division 118 of this article and the construction of which was commenced on or after
July 1, 1974.
High-Rise Life Safety Service – A person or firm in the business of developing and/or
conducting training in emergency planning, evacuation procedures, and the use of first-
aid fire equipment in high-rise buildings in the City of Los Angeles which has obtained a
Certificate of Fitness or otherwise been approved by the Department.
Horizontal Exit – An exit from one building into another building of approximately
the same level, or through or around a wall constructed as required for a two-hour
occupancy separation, and which completely divides a floor into two or more separate
areas so as to establish an area of refuge affording safety from fire or smoke coming from
the area from which escape is made.
Hotel – Any building containing six or more guest rooms intended or designed to be
used, rented, or occupied for sleeping purposes by guests.
Hydrant Cart – A portable system of pipes, hoses, valves, meters filters and other
appurtenances for controlling the transfer of fuel from fixed piping systems into the fuel
tanks of aircraft.
Indirect Fired Oven – Any drying oven in which the oven atmosphere, is kept separate
from combustion gases and from any open flame or other heating element.
Infant – Any child less than six years of age who is unable to walk and requires the aid
of another person to evacuate the building.
Inert Gas – Any gas which is non-flammable and chemically inactive for the use
intended.
EXCEPTIONS:
Class A – Any laboratory which uses or processes any hazardous material on the
premises in a quantity over the exempt amount as set forth in Table 4-A in Division 4 of
this article.
Class B – Any laboratory which uses or processes hazardous materials on the premises
within the quantities which are within the exempt amounts as set forth in Table 4-A in
Division 4 of this article.
Lawn Torch – Any torch or flare burning flammable or combustible liquids which is
used for light or decoration out of doors.
Liquefied Flammable Gas – Any liquid or gas which is a liquid while under pressure
and having a vapor pressure in excess of 27 psia at a temperature of 100° F. and a
flammability range with air greater than one per cent by volume.
Liquid – Any material which has a fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt
when tested in accordance with approved standards. When not otherwise identified, the
term “Liquid” refers to either flammable or combustible liquids.
Liquid Storage Warehouse – A building used only for the storage of flammable or
combustible liquids in unopened containers or portable tanks and classified herein as a
Group H, Division 3 occupancy.
Live Theatrical Production –Any live theatrical performance in any motion picture
theater, theater, or little theater, including, but not limited to, plays, dramas, pageants,
musicals, operas, circuses, performances, and similar presentations utilizing scenery
and/or settings, lighting, or other stage dressing or paraphernalia.
Loading Rack – Any system, piping, or other appurtenances maintained and used for
transferring hazardous materials between pipe lines or tanks and tank vehicles, tank cars,
tank vessels, or containers on vehicles.
Lodging House – Any building or portion thereof containing not more than five guest
rooms where rent is paid for occupancy.
Low Pressure Tank – Any tank designed to operate at pressure, above 0.5 psig, but not
more than 15 psig.
Magnesium – The pure metal and alloys of which the major part is magnesium.
Marine Oil Terminal – Any plant, station, premises, or equipment used in connection
therewith, located on the harbor or ocean front, which is designed and intended to deliver
to or receive from oceangoing vessels liquefied or gaseous hazardous materials or
flammable or combustible liquids.
Marine Service Station – Any station, plant, premises or equipment used in connection
therewith, where flammable or combustible liquids used as motor fuels are dispensed
from equipment, on shore, piers or wharves to floating craft for fuel, except bunkering
facilities for oceangoing vessels.
Membrane Structure – A temporary structure including, but not limited to, air-inflated
structures, air-supported structures, cable structures, or frame-covered structures, as
defined in Division 115 of this article.
Metal Container - An all metal container having a tight fitting screw or snap type
cover.
Metal Drum – A metal drum constructed according to L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26 and
approved for the use to which it is intended.
Mobile Fuel Tank – A liquefied flammable gas cylinder or tank used solely for the
purpose of supplying liquefied flammable gas to the motor of a motor vehicle, or other
internal combustion engine.
Molten Solid - All solid chemicals, other than explosives, which are in molten form by
reason of elevated temperatures, and which are at a temperature sufficient to ignite
ordinary combustible materials or to react violently with water.
Motor Vehicle – Any vehicle equipped with a motor for propulsion which is used or
intended to be used for the transportation of freight or passengers on land.
Mountain Fire District – Any area within the City which has been specifically set
aside by law as a mountain district.
Native Brush or Shrub – All vegetation which is indigenous to and found within the
City of Los Angeles.
Natural Gasoline Plant – Any facility in which gasoline is extracted from petroleum
vapors produced at the well.
Net Acre – An area of ground surface consisting of 43,560 square feet exclusive of
any public street, alley, parkway, sidewalk, easement or other public right-of-way.
Occupancy – The purpose for which a building, or part thereof, is used or intended to
be used.
Occupancy Groups – For the purpose of this article, occupancies are classified as
follows:
Group A Occupancies:
Division 1. Any assembly occupancy with a stage and occupant load of 1,000 or more.
Division 2. Any assembly occupancy or portion thereof with a stage and an occupant
load of less than 1,000.
Division 2.1. Any assembly occupancy or portion thereof without a stage and with an
occupant load of 300 or more, including such occupancies used for educational purposes
and not classified as a Group E or Group B, Division 2 Occupancy.
Division 3. Any assembly occupancy or portion thereof without a stage and with an
occupant load of less than 300, including such occupancies used for educational purposes
and not classified as a Group E or Group B, Division 2 Occupancy.
Division 4. Stadiums, reviewing stands, and amusement park structures not included
within Group A Occupancies.
Group B Occupancies:
Division 1. Gasoline service stations and garages where no repair work is done on
vehicles except exchange of parts and maintenance requiring no open flame, welding, or
the use of flammable liquids.
Division 2. Drinking and dining establishments having an occupant load of less than
50, wholesale and retail stores, office buildings, printing plants, municipal police and fire
stations, factories, and workshops using material not flammable or combustible, storage
and sales rooms for combustible goods, paint stores without bulk handling and buildings
or portions of buildings, used for educational purposes beyond the twelfth grade with less
than 50 occupants.
Division 3. Aircraft hangars where no repair work is done except exchange of parts
and maintenance requiring no open flame, welding, or the use of flammable liquids; open
parking garages and heliports.
Division 4. Ice plants, power plants, pumping plants, cold storage plants, creameries,
factories, workshops and storage areas and sales rooms for noncombustible and
nonexplosive materials.
Group D Occupancies:
Any home or facility for the housing of any person aged 18 through 64 when such
person is referred to or placed within such home or facility for protective social care and
supervisory services by any governmental agency.
Division 3. Occupancies housing more than six ambulatory persons on the premises
not including employees or relatives of the owner or operator.
Division 4. Occupancies housing six or less ambulatory persons on the premises not
including employees or relatives of the owner or operator.
Group E Occupancies:
Division 1. Any building used for educational purposes through the twelfth grade by
50 or more persons for more than 12 hours per week or four hours in any one day.
Division 2. Any building used for educational purposes through the twelfth grade by
less than 50 persons for more than 12 hours per week or four hours in any one day.
Division 3. Any non-residential building used for day care purposes for more than six
children and any residential building used for day care purposes for more than 12
children.
Group H Occupancies:
5. Class I, II, and III organic peroxides in aggregate quantities exceeding the
exempt amounts shown in Table 4-A are stored, manufactured, processed, or used.
4. Loose flammable fibers in aggregate quantities exceeding 100 cubic feet are
stored, processed, or used; or where baled or packaged flammable fibers in aggregate
quantities exceeding 1,000 cubic feet are stored with fibers partially or totally exposed;
5. Class II or Class IIIA liquid solvents are used in a dry cleaning process in closed
systems;
6. Woodworking establishments, planing mills, box factories, buffing rooms for tire
rebuilding plants, picking rooms, shops, factories, or warehouses where loose
combustible fibers or dusts are manufactured, processed, generated, or stored, and pin
refinishing rooms.
Division 1. Nurseries for the full-time care of children under the age of six (each
accommodating more than six persons); hospitals, sanitariums, nursing homes with non-
ambulatory patients and similar buildings (each accommodating more than six persons).
Division 2. Nursing homes for ambulatory patients, homes for children six years of
age or over (each accommodating more than six persons.)
Division 3. Buildings where inmates are restrained including, but not limited to,
mental hospitals, mental sanitariums, jails, prisons, and reformatories.
EXCEPTION:
Group I, Division 1, 2 and 3 Occupancies shall not include buildings used only for
private residential purposes or for a family group.
Division 1A. Nurseries for the time care of children under the age of six but not
including “Infants”, each accommodating six or less persons; hospitals, sanitariums,
nursing homes with non-ambulatory patients and similar buildings, each accommodating
six or less persons;
Division 2A. Nursing homes for ambulatory patients, homes for children six years of
age or over, each accommodating six or less persons.
EXCEPTION:
Group M Occupancies:
Group R Occupancies:
Occupant Load – The total number of persons that may occupy a building, portion of a
building or premises at any one time for assembly purposes.
Oil Well – Any well or hole already drilled, being drilled or to be drilled into the
surface of the earth which is used or intended to be used in connection with coring, or the
drilling for, prospecting for, or producing petroleum, natural gas, or other hydrocarbon
substances; or is used or intended to be used for the subsurface injection into the earth of
oil field waste, gases, water or liquid substances; including any such existing hole, well
or casing which has not been abandoned in accordance with the requirements of Division
90 of this article, except that “Oil Well” shall not include “Temporary Geological
Exploratory Core Hole” as in this section.
Oil Well Class A – Those oil wells used or intended to be used for the production of
petroleum, natural gas or other hydrocarbon products.
Oil Well Class B – Those oil wells used or intended to be used solely for the
subsurface injection into the earth of oil field waste, gas, water or liquid substances.
Operating Unit – All of the contiguous lands lying within any portion of the City in
which drilling is permitted, and which lands are included in the terms of the lease, permit
or other agreement pursuant to which the well in question is drilled or authorized to be
drilled, whether such lands are in one ownership or in different ownerships, and whether
such lands are described in said lease, permit or agreement as one parcel or as several
parcels. If there are separate units of non-contiguous lands containing at least one net acre
included in the terms of such lease, permit, or agreement, each such unit shall be deemed
a separate operating unit.
Organic Peroxide – Those organic compounds which are identified by their active
oxygen to oxygen linkage being combined with the organic radical. Note: Class I, II, and
III organic peroxides are heat and shock sensitive and are known as “Potentially
explosive chemicals.” Examples of such peroxides are benzoyl peroxide and methyl ethyl
ketone peroxide. Organic peroxides shall be divided into the following classifications of
hazard:
Class I: Organic peroxides that present a high explosion hazard, readily capable of
detonation or rapid explosive decomposition when exposed to thermal or mechanical
shock, or in the absence of a controlled temperature, or when crystallization out of
solution occurs.
Class II: Organic peroxides that present an intermediate explosion hazard capable of
detonation or explosive decomposition when exposed to thermal or mechanical shock, or
in the absence of a controlled temperature, or when dilution or inhibitors are significantly
reduced.
Class III: Organic peroxides that present a moderate explosion and severe fire hazard.
Characteristics are rapid burning with high heat liberation or vapor which forms an
explosion hazard. These peroxides may require dilution or inhibitors for storage and
handling at ambient temperatures.
Class IV: Organic peroxides that present a moderate fire hazard and may require
dilution or inhibitors for storage and handling at ambient temperatures.
Class V: Organic peroxides that present a low or negligible fire hazard equivalent to
or less than ordinary combustibles.
Owner – Owner or owner-of-record shall mean the owner of the property as shown on
the last County Equalized Assessment Roll and shall also mean any person whose name
appears as an owner on the County Assessor’s records which that office uses to prepare
its next Assessment Roll and/or any person whose name and address appears in the latest
Real Property Records of the City Clerk, whichever is more current at the time.
Oxidizing Material – Any chemical element or compound which may yield oxygen or
violently react when involved in a fire or when in contact with water or which may
increase the intensity of a fire even though it may be relatively non-combustible.
Parapet Wall –.That part of any wall entirely above the roof line.
Patch Kettle – Any pot or container with a capacity of less than six gallons, used for
pre-heating tar, asphalt, pitch or similar substance for roofs, streets, floors, pipes or
similar objects.
Permit – A written document issued by authority of the Chief to any person for the
purpose of granting permission to such person to con- duct or engage in any business,
operation, or act for which approval of the Department is required.
Portable Shipping Tank – Any tank having a liquid capacity over 60 gallons and not
over 660 gallons which is readily movable from place to place either with or without
special handling equipment and which is not permanently attached to its transporting
vehicle.
Portable Tank – Any closed vessel having a liquid capacity over 60 gallons and not
intended for fixed installation.
Premises – Any parcel of land, regardless of the number of contiguous lots, occupied
by or under the control of the same person or firm and including all buildings, structures,
and improvements thereon.
Pressure Vessel – Any unfired closed metal container designed to operate at pressures
above 15 psig.
Private Fire Hydrant – An approved fire hydrant which is located on private property
and is connected to and serviced by the public water system.
Public Way – Any street, alley, or similar parcel of land essentially unobstructed from
the ground to the sky which is deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated
to the public for public use and having an unobstructed width of not less than 10 feet.
Re-Drill – Any oil well drilling activity made through an original well bore for the
purpose of penetrating a possible oil bearing strata at a lower level, or by slant drilling to
penetrate the same strata at a different location.
Refinery – A plant, premises or facility used for the process or production of
petroleum, chemicals, or petrochemicals from raw or basic materials to marketable
products in amounts exceeding 100 barrels per day capacity.
Required Exit – Those exits from buildings or premises required by the Los Angeles
Municipal Code.
Roofing Kettle – Any pot or kettle in excess of 15 gallons capacity, used for
preheating tar, asphalt, pitch or similar substances for roofs, streets, floors, pipes or
similar objects.
Rubbish Chute – Any shaft enclosure provided and constructed within a building, in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) for the express purpose of
transmitting hazardous refuse and other material from upper floors to a rubbish room
located on a lower floor or basement, or into an approved container outside of a building.
Rubbish Room – Any room appropriated for the storage or treatment of hazardous
refuse and other material and constructed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
Safety Can – An approved container of not more than five gallons capacity having a
springclosing lid and spout cover and designed to safely relieve internal pressure when
subjected to fire exposure.
Safety Ventilation System – A ventilation system used in conjunction with Ovens and
Furnaces or Industrial Processing Equipment for the purpose of preventing Hazardous
Atmospheres.
Skid Tank – A portable low pressure tank or pressure vessel equipped with fixed skids
or feet, or lugs to which skids may be attached.
Spark Arrester - For Chimneys: Any device for arresting burning carbon or sparks,
constructed of minimum 12 gauge woven wire metal, stainless steel, aluminum, copper
or brass, with one-half inch maximum openings, or cast iron plate, three-sixteenths inch
minimum thickness and having one-half inch perforations spaced one- inch apart,
measured center to center.
Spark Arrester – For Industrial Trucks and Machines - Any device used and
maintained to retard sparks, adaptable for the hazard classification involved as approved
by the Chief.
Spark Arrester – For Internal Combustion Engines Operated in or near Grain, Hay,
Grass or Brush-Covered Areas – An approved spark arrester listed in the Spark Arrester
Identification Guide, published by the Forest Service, United States Department of
Agriculture.
Special Permit – A written document issued by authority of the Chief for the purpose
of granting permission to and stating the conditions under which a person or company
may conduct or engage in any operation or act, not specified in Division 4 or 5 of this
article, for which approval of the Department may be required by this article.
Special School – Any building, premises, or portion thereof used for education,
training, or instruction of more than six students, 16 years of age or under, for more than
eight hours per week and which is not subject to the provisions of Part 2, Division 9,
Chapter 6, Articles 1 and 2 of the Education Code of California.
Special Vessel – Any pressure vessel, low-pressure tank, or atmospheric tank that
requires venting, insulation, refrigeration, or a combination of these in order to maintain
the operating pressure within the design pressure, and the contents in the liquid phase at
temperatures below ambient.
3. Any area in the direct path of spray or any area containing air-suspended
combustible residue, dust, deposits, spray or vapor as a result of spraying operations.
Spray Room – A room the entire area of which is used as a spray booth, and which
conforms to the applicable requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
Standard Cubic Foot of Gas – That volume of gas which, at a temperature of 70 F. and
a pressure of one atmosphere absolute, occupies one cubic foot.
Standby Power System – That part of an electrical system which, within 60 seconds of
failure of the normal electrical supply, is required to be automatically transferred to, and
be energized from an alternate on-site electrical supply.
Class I – A dry standpipe system without a directly connected water supply and
equipped with two and one-half inch outlets for use by the Fire Department or trained
personnel.
Class II – A wet standpipe system directly connected to a water supply and equipped
with one and one-half inch outlets intended for use by the building occupants.
Class III - A combination standpipe system directly connected to a water supply and
equipped with both one and one-half inch outlets for use by the building occupants and
two and one-half inch outlets for use by the Fire Department or trained personnel.
Combined – A system of water piping which serves two and one-half inch hose outlets
for use by the Fire Department and also supplies water to automatic sprinkler systems.
Street – Any public thoroughfare not less than 16 feet in width which has been
dedicated or deeded to the public for use other than as an alley or walk, except that where
a subdivision has been recorded containing lots which abut only on an alley or walk, said
alley or walk may be considered to be a street.
Surgery – Any area in a hospital, in which anesthetic agents are used or intended to be
used for the anesthetization of a patient in the course of surgical or obstetrical treatment
or examination or procedure including operating rooms, delivery rooms, emergency
rooms and rooms used for preoperative preparation of a patient.
Tank Car - Any railway car equipped with a cargo tank mounted thereon, used for the
transportation of commodities by rail.
Tank Semi-Trailer – Any vehicle of the trailer type equipped with a Cargo Tank
mounted thereon so designed and used in connection with a motor vehicle that some part
of its own weight rests upon and is carried by such motor vehicle.
Tank Trailer - Any vehicle without motive power, equipped with a Cargo Tank
mounted thereon, and constructed so that it can be drawn by a motor vehicle, with no part
of its own weight resting upon the towing vehicle.
Tank Truck - Any motor vehicle equipped with a cargo tank mounted thereon.
Tank Vehicle – Any Tank Truck, Tank Trailer, Tank Semi-Trailer or Aircraft Fuel
Servicing Tank Vehicle.
Theater – Any room, hall, auditorium or premises having a stage designed or used for
entertainment and adapted to the presentation of plays, musicals, operas, pageants, or
similar forms of entertainment, such stage requiring a fire resistive curtain, automatic
sprinkler system and automatic vents.
Toxic Material – Any material which either directly or indirectly may constitute a
hazard to life or health, either temporary or permanent from exposure by contact,
inhalation, or ingestion. Toxic materials shall be divided into the following classifications
of hazard:
Class 4 – Materials which on very short exposure could cause death or major residual
injury even though prompt medical treatment is given.
Class 3 – Materials which on short exposure could cause serious temporary or residual
injury even though prompt medical treatment is given.
Class 1 – Materials which on exposure could cause irritation but only minor residual
injury even if no treatment is given.
Transfer Apparatus – Transfer apparatus shall mean any device or system of devices
including pump, motor, piping, meter, hose and nozzle used for transferring flammable
liquids, combustible liquids, or liquified flammable gas other than at or in connection
with an Auto Fueling Station.
Class 2 – Materials which are normally unstable and readily undergo violent chemical
change but do not detonate. This class includes materials which can undergo chemical
change with rapid release of energy at normal temperatures and pressures, or which can
undergo violent chemical change at raised temperatures and pressures.
Class 1 – Materials which are normally stable, but which can become unstable at
raised temperatures and pressures.
Vapor Pressure – The pounds per square inch of the vapor when in equilibrium with
the liquid which produces the vapor. Vapor pressure shall be determined in accordance
with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 36.
Water Reactive Material – Any material which may produce a violent or dangerous
reaction when in contact with water.
Water Wash Spray Booth – A spray booth equipped with a water-washing system
designed to minimize dust or residues entering exhaust ducts and to permit the recovery
of overspray finishing material.
Work Area – That space within a building occupied by one working person including
the bench, machines, or other operating equipment and the supply of hazardous materials
or plastics which are in process, awaiting process, or finished.
The following abbreviations whenever used in this article shall have the meaning set
forth in this section:
F.—Fahrenheit.
Section
57.03.13 Appeals.
57.03.15 Records.
A. It shall be the duty of the Chief to enforce the provisions of this article.
B. The Chief shall, upon report of any violation of this article, make an inspection
and report of his findings thereto.
C. The Chief shall sign all certificates, notices, and orders pertaining to fire safety
and fire hazards.
D. The Chief shall enforce, within the City, the Rules and Regulations that have
been formally adopted by the State Fire Marshal for the prevention of fire, or for the
protection of life and property against fire or panic.
A. The Office of Fire Marshal is hereby created in the City of Los Angeles.
B. The Chief shall designate a Deputy Fire Chief of the Department who shall serve
as Fire Marshal with the authority to exercise the power and perform the duties of the
Fire Marshal.
C. The Fire Marshal shall, under the direction of the Chief, have control of all
matters pertaining to the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety.
The Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety of the Department, created by
Ordinance No. 34,352 (N.S., approved June 19, 1916) is hereby authorized to continue.
A. The Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety shall consist of the following
persons:
1. The Fire Marshal, who shall be the Chief Fire Prevention Engineer of the Bureau
of Fire Prevention.
2. Such other officers and members as shall be required to carry out the provisions
of this article.
3. Not more than 60 Fire Prevention Inspectors, who shall be selected from outside
the Department and who shall serve without pay; and,
4. Such other assistants and employees as the City Council shall provide.
B. The function of this Bureau shall be to administer and enforce the fire prevention
and life safety provisions of this article and shall include but not be limited to the
following:
2. The investigation of the cause, origin, and circumstances of fire or life safety
hazards.
3. The elimination of fire and life safety hazards in any building or structure,
including those under construction, any premises, marine vessel, aircraft, vehicle, or the
appurtenances and equipment thereof.
4. The maintenance of fire protection equipment and systems
6. Enforcement of the basic building regulations of the State Fire Marshal as they
apply to the City of Los Angeles in matters relating to fire, panic, and explosion safety.
(B) Noncompliance Fee. The Noncompliance Fee shall be the hourly Inspector’s
salary rate multiplied by the number of hours expended in reinspections after the
Fire/Life Safety Order has been issued (2 hours minimum) and shall be paid by the
owner. The first reinspection after the Fire/Life Safety Order has been issued will not be
charged to the owner if the property is in compliance at the time of that reinspection. If
the property is not in compliance at the time of the first reinspection, then time involved
in all subsequent reinspections shall be chargeable as a Noncompliance Fee.
(C) Billing of Noncompliance Fee. (Amended by Ord. No. 175,596, Eff. 12/7/03.)
If multiple reinspections of a violation are required in order to gain compliance, the
Department shall cause a Noncompliance Fee billing to be sent to the property owner,
either at the time the Department finally gains compliance, or when the Department seeks
the filing of criminal charges, unless a timely appeal has been filed.
The Fire/Life Safety Order shall: (1) state that the owner is required to abate the
hazard; (2) set forth a reasonable time in which to comply with the law; (3) state that if
the hazard is not abated by the date specified on the notice as the compliance date, the
owner shall be responsible for Noncompliance Fees, including administrative costs; and
(4) state that these costs may ultimately result in a lien against the property.
Billing of the fees shall be by United States mail, in a sealed envelope with postage
paid, addressed to the last known address of the person served with the Fire/Life Safety
Violation. Service of the bill shall be deemed to have been completed at the time of
deposit with the United States Postal Service. The person or persons served shall remit
the Noncompliance Fee to the Department within 30 days after the date of service.
Payment of the Noncompliance Fees may be made by cash, check, certified check,
cashier's check, money order, or credit card.
If the property owner fails to make the payment in a timely manner, then the
Department may demand payment of the Noncompliance Fee from the person or persons
served for the property involved, prior to the issuance of any permit, certification, or
approval to the person or persons served, pursuant to the authority granted by Section
57.03.11 A. of this Code.
If the property owner fails to pay a Noncompliance Fee imposed within 30 days, the
Department shall send a second notice in the same manner described above. If the
property owner fails to pay the fee within ten days after the second notice was mailed, a
collection fee equal to 50 percent of the original Noncompliance Fee shall be imposed.
This additional fee shall become part of the debt immediately due and owing to the Los
Angeles City Fire Department. The City shall have the right to bring legal action in any
court of competent jurisdiction to enforce the order and collect the amount of the fees.
In addition to any other remedy provided by law, the City may collect any judgment,
fee, cost, or charge, including any permit fees, fines, late charges, or interest, incurred in
relation to the provisions of this section as provided in Los Angeles Administrative Code
Sections 7.35.1 through 7.35.8.
Nothing in this section regarding the imposition of Noncompliance Fees shall prevent
the Department from pursuing other legal action, including but not limited to the filing of
criminal charges in order to gain compliance with the Fire Code.
1. The appeal shall be made in writing to the Board of Fire Commissioners, upon
appropriate forms provided by the Department, within 15 days of the date of service of
the billing.
2. An appeal processing fee of $50.00 shall be paid by the appellant prior to the
Board processing the appeal and making a determination.
4. In any appeal, the appellant making the request shall cause to be made, at the
appellant’s own expense, any tests required by the Board to substantiate the claims.
5. The Board may hold any hearings it deems appropriate to consider the appeal.
The Board of Fire Commissioners or its designee shall conduct the hearings.
6. The Board shall determine whether to modify or rescind the fees, or to impose
and require the owner to pay the fees. This determination shall be based on evidence in
the record of any error on the part of the Fire Department or extreme hardship on the part
of the property owner. This determination by the Board shall be final.
* Under uncodified Ordinance No. 172,699, effective 8/15/99, the fees and charges
imposed pursuant to Section 57.03.05 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code may be
collected on the County tax rolls.
A. The Chief shall have the power to summarily abate or require abatement of
violations of the provisions of this article.
B. The Chief shall issue such notices as may be necessary for the enforcement of
this article and for the safeguarding of life and property from fire, explosion, or panic.
Every notice shall set forth a time limit for compliance. The time limit shall depend upon
the degree of hazard created by the violation.
C. The Chief shall issue a written notice under the authority of Section 57.01.03
when the provisions of this article apply retroactively to existing conditions. Under such
circumstances, those requirements shall be enforced when reasonably necessary for
minimum safety to life and property.
Any notice authorized or required by this article shall be served in the manner set forth
in Section 11.00 of this Code, except as provided in Los Angeles Administrative Code
Sections 7.35.1 through 7.35.8.
No person shall sell, offer for sale, install, operate, maintain, or use any appliance,
device, equipment, or system which requires a Permit, a Special Permit, or a General
Approval by provisions of this article, unless such Permit, Special Permit, or General
Approval is then in effect.
It shall be unlawful for any person to violate any rule or regulation, adopted by the
Board in accordance with the provisions of Section 57.01.34 B. of this article.
A. In addition to all other penalties prescribed herein, the Chief shall have the
power to revoke, suspend, or deny the granting of any Permit, Special Permit, General
Approval, or Certificate of Fitness, required pursuant to the provisions of this Article, for
any of the following reasons:
6. Upon a finding by the Chief of any practice constituting a fraud upon the public;
or
B. Appeal—Every such appeal shall be in writing and shall be filed at the office of
the Board. Such appeal shall set forth specifically and concisely the reasons why it is
believed that actions of the Chief should not be sustained. Upon receipt of such appeal,
the Board shall designate a time and place of hearing therefor. Such hearing must be held
within 10 days of receipt of the appeal. The Board shall notify the Appellant and the
Chief of the time and place of such hearing. The Board shall, within 10 days after the
hearing, render its final decision in writing to the Appellant and the Chief.
All Permits and Special Permits shall become void upon any change of owner or
location shown on the permit.
A. The Department shall keep a record of all fire prevention inspections, including
the date of such inspections and a summary of any violations found to exist, the date of
the service of notices, and a memorandum of the final disposition of all violations.
B. The Fire Marshal shall maintain records of all transactions and operations of the
Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety in accordance with guidelines established in
the records retention schedule of the Los Angeles Administrative Code.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. All variances and waivers shall be retained in the Bureau of Fire Prevention and
Public Safety files permanently or until the Department determines otherwise.
3. Records of the two most recent tests pursuant to Regulation No. 4 shall be
retained in the Department files for all fire protection equipment regarding that
occupancy.
All Orders to Correct issued pursuant to this chapter shall be posted in a visible
location in the residential rental building cited.
DIVISION 4
PERMITS
Section
57.04.01 Scope.
The provisions of this division apply to Permits which constitute authority for a
continuing action by the permittee.
No person or owner shall use any premises or engage in any activities described
herein without having obtained a Permit pursuant to this section. Occupancies listed in
this section shall not be required to have an additional Permit for hazardous materials
when the Chief determines that such materials are essential to the operation of the
business. A Permit shall be required to operate or maintain the following:
2. Aircraft Refueller
4. Airport, Private
12. Day Care: Non-residential buildings for more than six children. Any
residential building for more than 12 children.
14. Hazardous Materials: To store, process, or use materials above ground of the
type and in the amounts exceeding those set forth in Table 4-A of this division or
exceeding the Permit amounts for hazardous materials in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 68.
15. Heliport
EXCEPTION:
16. Hospital
17. Hotel
18. Laboratory using hazardous materials: Only one Laboratory Permit shall be
required for all buildings or structures operated by same permittee at the same location.
23. Refinery
24. Residential Occupancies defined as: R2.1, R2.2, R6.1, or R6.2 occupancies.
25. School
26. Service Center For Armed Forces Personnel: (Original fee only)
29. Theater
TABLE 4-A
1. Air-Reactive Materials
No exemption
2. Water-Reactive Materials
No exemption
3. Unstable Materials
No exemption
4. Explosive Materials
Class A
No exemption
Class B
10 Lbs.
5. Fireworks
No exemption
6. Smokeless Powder
20 Lbs.
(Net Weight)
9. Flammable Gases
3,000 Cu. Ft.
Class IA
60 Gal.
Class IB
120 Gal.
Class IC
180 Gal.
Combination of Flammable Liquids with not more than the exempt amount of
Class IA, IB, or IC Liquids
240 Gal.
Class III
500 Gal.
Loose
100 Cu. Ft.
Baled
1,000 Cu. Ft.
Class 3, 4
No exemption
Class 1, 2 Gases
400 Cu. Ft.
Solids or Liquids
100 Lbs.
Etiologic Agent
No exemption
Gases
6,000 Cu. Ft.
Liquids
50 Gal.
Solids
500 Lbs.
Class IV
10 Lbs.
Liquids
200 Gal.
Solids
2,000 Lbs.
20. Ammonium Nitrate Compound Mixtures Containing More Than 60% Nitrate
Weight
1,000 Lbs.
A. A Permit issued under the provisions of this division shall be valid only for the
person in whose name it is issued, and for the location shown on the Permit. Separate
locations require separate Permits.
B. When the distance between oil wells is reduced, as provided in Section 57.90.01
J of this article, then additional cellars may be constructed and conductor pipes not more
than 100 feet deep may be set before obtaining the Permit for the oil well approved under
that section; provided however, there shall be one valid Permit in effect for one oil well
at the same drill site, and the bond required by Section 57.04.14 of this article shall state
that said bond is applicable to all cellars and conductor pipes that may have been
constructed on the same drill site and for which a separate oil well permit has not been
granted.
A. Filing:
All applications for Permits required by this division shall be filed with the Office of
Finance and shall be in writing on forms provided by the Office of Finance (Amended by
Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.). Such applications shall be accompanied
by the Permit fees required by this article.
B. Contents of Application:
Applications for Permits required by this division shall, unless otherwise required by
the Department, contain the following information:
1. The Fire Marshal shall investigate application for a Permit, and such
investigation shall be made by authorized members of the Department.
2. The Fire Marshal may require such additional information as may be necessary to
carry out the investigation of the application for a Permit.
3. The Chief shall determine the allowable occupant load permitted for an assembly
or institutional occupancy based upon the aisle and exit provisions of Division 33 of this
article. The allowable occupant load shall not exceed the maximum occupant load
designated in the Certificate of Occupancy issued by the Department of Building and
Safety, or in the absence of such certificate, the maximum occupant load approved by the
Chief.
4. If, after investigation and consideration of any application, and any plans or
specifications required in connection therewith, the Chief shall determine that the
proposed business, operation, occupation or premises will not create any undue hazard as
a result of fire or panic, and the applicant will comply with any requirements of this
article and all other applicable laws, the Chief shall approve the application.
5. The Chief’s approval of the application may be made subject to terms and
conditions necessary for the safeguarding of life and property from the hazards of fire,
explosion or panic.
6. On approval of the application by the Chief and the payment of the required fee
the Office of Finance (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) shall
issue the Permit.
Each Permit issued by the Office of Finance shall be in accordance with the provisions
of this division and shall have set forth upon the face thereof the following:
E. The date of expiration of the Permit, and the date upon which the annual Permit
fee shall be due and payable.
Posting and Keeping. Each valid Permit issued pursuant to the provisions of this
division shall be posted in a conspicuous place on the premises for which the same is
issued. Persons engaged in the business of operating or maintaining any oil well shall
keep the Permit available for inspection at the main office or principal place of business
of the permittee.
Unless otherwise set forth on the face of the Permit, every Permit issued in accordance
with the provisions of this division shall be valid for the year stated, or until voided,
revoked, or suspended.
1. Newly Established Business – The annual Permit fees required by this division
for any newly established business, operation, occupation, or premises shall be due and
payable on or before the close of business on the first day such business, operation,
occupation, or use of premises begins.
2. Renewal – Existing Permits – The annual Permit renewal fees required by this
division for existing Permits shall become due and payable each year during the two
months next preceding the first day of January of the calendar year for which a Permit is
to be renewed. Fees for Churches and Service Centers For Armed Forces Personnel shall
be paid upon original application only and shall not be paid thereafter.
B. Collection – All Permit fees required by this division shall be paid in cash and
shall be collected by the Office of Finance. Upon receipt, the Office of Finance
(Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) shall deposit the fees with
the City Treasurer.
C. Fee – The Board, with the concurrence of the Director of the Office of
Administrative and Research Services (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00,
Oper. 7/1/00.), shall determine on a regular basis the verifiable costs of the City for the
items set forth in this subsection. These costs shall be the actual total costs incurred,
including all applicable indirect costs, as determined by the Board. The Board shall use
those costs to develop a cost recovery schedule of applicable charges necessary to
recover City costs for issuing Permits in connection with the activities set forth in the
schedule. The Board shall adopt such costs as fees at anytime during each fiscal year, but
not later than April 1. The cost recovery schedule shall be based upon verifiable costs for
issuing a Permit in connection with any activity, including inspection costs, retirement
costs on direct labor and departmental and general City overhead applicable to the
issuance of any such Permit. It shall take into consideration the number of Permits issued
and affected by the Permit charges within the period of time used for reference in
development of the charges. Upon adoption of a schedule of verified costs by the Board
as provided herein, the Board shall transmit the Board order to the Mayor and to the City
Council.
At any time within 60 days after delivery of the Board order, the Mayor, by writing, or
the Council, by majority vote, may disapprove the Board order. If, within 60 days after
delivery of such a proposed fee schedule from the Board, neither the Mayor nor the City
Council has disapproved said order of the proposed schedule, or the Council has failed to
recommend any amendments thereon, the Board order and the Board’s proposed fee
schedule shall be deemed approved as submitted, and the Board shall cause it to be
published in a daily newspaper in the same manner as ordinances of the City are
published pursuant to Charter Section 251. The order shall take effect upon publication.
(Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.)
In the event the Board fails to adopt a Board order setting forth a proposed schedule of
new fees for recovery of costs before April 1 as set forth above, or in the event that
within 60 days of delivery of such a Board order and proposed cost recovery schedule of
fees having been to the Mayor and to the City Council by the Board, either the Mayor or
the Council disapproves the Board order or proposed schedule, or if the Council
recommends that the proposed schedule be amended to either increase or decrease any of
the fees, the proposed schedule submitted by the Board shall have no force or effect as to
those items recommended for amendment or which have been disapproved, shall not
become operative as to any such items, and the fees as to those items on the proposed
schedule which have been disapproved or recommended for change shall not change
during the ensuing fiscal year under said Board order, provided however, that those
remaining items not disapproved or not recommended for amendment by the Council
shall be deemed approved and, as above provided, may be published as a schedule by the
Board and said deemed approved fees shall become effective as otherwise provided
herein.
The Board shall collect charges in accordance with new schedules approved as
provided hereinabove.
Those items to which this procedure applies include: (Amended by Ord. No. 172,043,
Eff. 7/13/98.)
2. Aircraft Refueller
3. Airport, Private
5. Assembly Occupancy
EXCEPTION:
7. Boarding Home
14. Hazardous Materials: To store, process, or use materials above ground of the
type and in the amounts exceeding those set forth in Table 4-A of this division or
exceeding the Permit amounts for hazardous materials in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 68.
15. Heliport
16. Hospital
17. Hotel
18. Laboratory
a. Class A
b. Class B
a. Any oil well in the Los Angeles City Oil Field which has been producing oil for
more than 15 years prior to January 1, 1960.
23. Refinery
25. School
26. Service Center For Armed Forces Personnel (Original fee only)
28. Theater
32. Rate for four hours, or fraction thereof, investigations and tests required as
provided in Section 57.01.30 of this article.
35. Applications for Permits as provided by Section 57.05.31 and 57.10.05 of this
article.
36. Certificates of Fitness as provided by Section 57.06.15 of this article.
D. Penalty:
1. New Application Fee – Whenever under the provisions of this division an annual
Permit fee is required to be paid for any business operation, occupation, or premises, and
such fee is not paid on or before the last day of the month following the month in which
business, operation, occupation, or premises was established and the fee became due,
such fee shall be delinquent and an additional sum equal to 50 percent of the fee so
required shall be imposed for delinquency. Such additional sum shall become a part of
the fee required by this division.
3. The penalty or any part thereof may be waived by the Office of Finance
(Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) with the approval of the City
Attorney.
E. Minor Errors in Payment – In the event a discrepancy exists between the amount
of the fee paid and the amount of the fee due under this division resulting in an
underpayment or an overpayment of the fee in the amount of $2.00 or less, the Office of
Finance (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) may accept and
recommend such underpayment or overpayment without other notification to the
permittee.
G. Fee Exempt Permits – Upon application, fee exempt Permits shall be issued to
the following without the payment of the fees prescribed by this division: City of Los
Angeles; County of Los Angeles; Los Angeles Unified School District; Los Angeles
Community College District; or any municipal corporation, department, or office thereof.
H. Permits – Charge for Duplication – Duplicate Permits may be issued by the
Office of Finance to replace any previously issued Permit which has been lost or
destroyed upon filing an affidavit by the holder of the Permit or authorized representative
attesting to such fact and upon paying to the Office of Finance of a fee of $1.00 therefor.
(Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.)
If the Office of Finance finds that any Permit fee due or believed to be due under the
provisions of this division cannot be collected, or that efforts to collect any such amount
would be disproportionately costly with relation to the probable outcome of the collecting
efforts, the Office of Finance may prepare a report setting forth his or her findings and
the reasons therefor, and submit it to a Board of Review constituted as provided in
Section 21.16 of the L.A.M.C. On unanimous approval of a finding by the Board of
Review, the Office of Finance may remove from his active accounts receivable any
unpaid fee owing or believed to be owing from one person which amounts to less than
$100.00. If the report relates to a claim for the fees owing or believed to be owing from
one person which amounts to $100.00 or more, the Board of Review shall make its
recommendations upon the finding and, if the Board of Review unanimously approves
the finding, submit it to the Council with the finding of the Office of Finance. If the
Board of Review does not unanimously approve the finding, the matter shall be returned
to the Office of Finance. Upon the approval of the findings by the Council, the Office of
Finance may remove from his active accounts receivable the amount so approved. The
Office of Finance may include in a single report his findings and supporting reasons
regarding fees due from more than one person. The removal from the active accounts
receivable of the Office of Finance of any unpaid fee as provided herein shall not
preclude the City from collecting or attempting to collect any such fee that later proves to
be collectible.
B. Unless otherwise provided, a bond in the sum of $10,000 shall be filed with the
Office of Finance (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) for each
oil well for which a Permit is required; provided however, that the applicant, in lieu of
filing individual bonds for each such well, may file a blanket bond in the sum of $50,000
covering all oil wells for which a Permit is required:
1. Where the $50,000 blanket bond is filed, each additional oil well not described in
said bond shall be covered hereunder by a rider, submitted in duplicate and attached
thereto, specifically describing such additional property as the bond is to cover, said rider
to be executed by the principal and surety in the same manner as the bond is executed and
shall be approved by the City Attorney as to form a content;
2. The total aggregate liability under the blanket bond shall be limited to the sum of
$50,000, provided however, that the maximum liability for any one oil well shall not
exceed the sum of $10,000.
C. The conditions of the bond shall specify that the principal shall comply with all
of the provisions and requirements of this article and any and all amendments thereto,
and that in default thereof the principals shall upon demand pay to the City of Los
Angeles all charges, costs, and expenses incurred by the City in respect to any
abandonment or demolition of any oil well, in the event of a failure on the part of the
principal to abandon or demolish any oil well as required by this article, and shall upon
demand pay to the City all charges, costs, an expenses incurred by the City in respect to
altering, reconstruction or repairing any oil well so as to cause the same to comply with
the provisions of this article in the event of the failure on the part of the principal to
comply with such provisions.
D. The term of each such bond shall begin upon the date thereof an shall terminate
upon the filing of a new bond as required by the permittee covering the same oil well, or
upon the abandonment of such, oil well in the manner required by this article.
E. In lieu of a surety bond as herein prescribed, the City Attorney may accept an
agreement of indemnity executed by the applicant or permittee and accompanied by a
deposit of cash in substantially the following form and manner:
1. The applicant or permittee shall deposit; and at all times maintain on deposit with
the Treasurer of the City of Los Angeles, an amount in cash equivalent to the amount of
the bond required by the provisions of this article;
2. The applicant or permittee, concurrently with the making of said deposit, shall
execute and deliver to the Office of Finance (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff.
6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) an agreement in writing, which shall be subject to the approval of
the City Attorney as to form and content, confirming the deposit and agreeing to
indemnify the City against any loss and damage arising out of the failure on the part of
the applicant or permittee faithfully to comply with the provisions of this article;
3. The City Treasurer shall have the custody of the cash deposited hereunder;
4. The Chief shall determine the fact of a default by the applicant or permittee in the
performance of all of the terms and conditions of this article and the amount of all
charges, costs, and expenses incurred by the City, thereby provided for herein and shall
order the payment thereof from the deposit. The Chief shall transmit his findings and
order to the Treasurer who shall make payment to the City for all charges, costs, and
expenses incurred.
5. The agreement of indemnity herein provided for may set forth such additional
terms and conditions as the City Attorney finds necessary or convenient to carry out the
purposes and intent of the L.A.M.C.
F. Whenever the Chief extends the time in which the permittee may perform any
acts required by this article, such extension of time shall not be deemed to exonerate or
discharge any surety upon any bond filed hereunder.
G. The Chief shall have the power to authorize all necessary acts to be done to
make any such oil well comply with the provisions of this article relating thereto or to
perform the necessary acts to abandon and demolish any such oil well and to restore the
property to its natural condition. The City Controller shall approve all warrants held by
the City Treasurer for the necessary expense incurred in correcting the violation of this
article relating thereto and the abandoning and demolition of any such oil well.
A. That portion of the City of Los Angeles generally known as the “Los Angeles
City Oil Fields” is hereby recognized as lying between and bounded by the following
streets:
Section
57.05.01 Scope.
57.05.02 Applications.
General Approvals
57.05.15 Fees.
Permits
57.05.25 Inspection.
57.05.31 Fees.
57.05.33 Bonds and in Lieu Deposits for Temporary Geological Exploratory Core
Holes.
A. Permits which constitute authority for a specific action or project. These Permits
are issued for a specified period of time unless voided or revoked.
A. Every application for a Permit or General Approval shall be filed at the office of
the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety upon forms provided by the Department.
C. For every Permit other than those required by Subsection A of Section 57.05.20
of this article the Department may require two sets of plans and specifications to be filed
with the application.
D. One set of plans and specifications may be filed for preliminary checking,
provided that the required number of sets of corrected plans and specifications are filed
before final action by the Department.
E. One set of plans and specifications will be returned to the applicant after action
by the Department, and the remaining set or sets shall be retained by the Department.
Whenever plans and specifications are required to be filed with any application for a
Permit, they shall comply with the provisions of this section.
A. The plans and specifications shall contain sufficient detail to enable the
Department to evaluate the hazard of the equipment, system, device, or other contrivance.
Plans and specifications shall include the details necessary to indicate clearly all the
apparatus and its arrangement and to show that it will conform to the provisions of this
article.
B. All plans shall be drawn with ink or indelible pencil or shall be reproduced by
conventional processes. Plans shall be drawn to an indicated scale or shall be suitably
dimensioned. The first sheet of each set of plans and specifications shall give the street
address of the work and the name and address of the applicant.
C. Distances and dimensions on the plans when required to show conformity with
the provisions of this article shall be shown in figures.
D. Specifications, legibly and definitely stated, shall be included either on the plan
or on separate sheets. Specifications shall cover the character of the materials used and
indicate all features relating to the installation in detail.
The granting of a Permit or General Approval by the Department shall not constitute
approval of any violation of any provision of this article or of any other law.
GENERAL APPROVALS
A. Required – No person shall construct, sell, offer for sale, or advertise for use in
the City or install, operate, maintain, or use any appliance, device, equipment, system, or
material listed in this section unless a General Approval for the type, design,
construction, formulation, and/or method of application has been granted by the Chief.
1. Fire hydrant.
2. Candle device for a place of assemblage other than the sanctuary of a church.
9. Internal valve or dome cover for cargo tank if approved separately from tank
vehicle.
11. Paint coating, or other surface finish, which purports to reduce or eliminate
combustible characteristics of furnishings or structures unless regulated by Title 19 of the
California Administrative Code or by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
B. Exemptions – The Chief may exempt from the requirements Subsection A of this
section any appliance, device, equipment, material or system which is approved, listed, or
labeled by an approved testing laboratory; provided that such appliance, device,
equipment, material or system is applied, installed, operated, used, and maintained in
conformance with the requirements of this article. Exemptions hereby granted do not
include exemption from the fee requirements as set for in Section 57.05.15 of this article.
C. Optional – The Department may grant a General Approval for the type, design,
and construction of any appliance, device, equipment, or system which is listed in this
subsection. (Sentence Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) This does not
waive the requirements for a Permit for each individual installation.
1. Atmospheric tank.
3. Special vessel.
4. Gas holder.
5. Spray booth or spray tunnel with any dimension greater than three feet.
6. Dip tank, more than 150 gallons capacity or more than five square feet of surface
area.
8. Drying oven.
A. The Chief shall investigate every application for a General Approval. Such
investigation shall be made by authorized members of the Department. The Department
approval of the application may be made subject to such terms and conditions as may be
necessary for the safeguarding of life and property from the hazards of fire, explosion, or
panic.
B. The Chief may require such additional information or tests as may be necessary
to carry out the investigation of the application for a General Approval. Any test that may
be required shall be made at the applicant’s own expense.
C. If, after investigation and consideration of any application and the plans and
specifications in connection therewith, it shall be determined that the type, design, and
construction of the appliance, device, equipment, or system will not create any undue fire
hazard and that it will conform to the provisions of this article and of other relevant laws,
the Chief shall approve the application. The Department shall thereupon grant the
General Approval.
Every appliance, device, equipment, or system for which a General Approval has been
granted shall have attached thereto a metal label, or other approved means of
identification, containing the following information:
1. Fire hydrant
1. Atmospheric tank
3. Special vessel
4. Gas holder
5. Spray booth or spray tunnel with any dimension greater than three feet
6. Dip tank with more than 150 gallons capacity or more than five square feet of
surface area
8. Drying oven
B. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) When the length of time spent in
investigating an application for a General Approval is such that the charge for hours
spent, as computed in accordance with the cost recovery schedule established under
Section 57.04.12-C, Item 31, exceeds the schedule fee established for that particular type
of approval, the charge as computed pursuant to Section 57.04.12-C, Item 31, shall be
paid to the Department before any General Approval is issued.
C. Fee exempt General Approvals, without the payment of the fees prescribed
pursuant to Section 57.04.12-C, shall be issued to the following: City of Los Angeles,
County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles City School Districts, Los Angeles Community
College District or any municipal corporation, department, or office thereof.
The Chief may suspend or revoke any General Approval if it is found that the material
or method of construction is not in compliance with any of the conditions upon which it
is based, or is not a quality or workmanship equivalent to that required by the Municipal
Code, or for any of the reasons set forth in Section 57.03.11 of this article.
PERMITS
No person, firm, or corporation shall engage in any specific action or project for
which a Permit is required by this section without first having obtained a valid Permit
from the Department. Permits shall be required for the following:
A. Erect, install or relocate any appliance, device, or system listed in this subsection
when such equipment is to be used in connection with hazardous materials, hazardous
waste, or hazardous plastics.
4. Special vessel.
6. Spray booth or spray tunnel with any dimension greater than three feet.
7. Dip tank more than 150 gallons capacity or more than five square feet of surface
area.
9. Drying oven.
B. Add to or alter any item, including ducting or piping connected thereto, as set
forth in Subsection A of this section.
2. Blasting operation.
3. Exhibit, show, circus, or carnival on any parcel of land or premises other than
those for which a Permit is required by Section 57.04.03 of this article. When such
exhibit, show, circus, or carnival is conducted within a tent, the fees required by Section
57.05.31 of this article shall be deemed to include the use of such tent as a place of
assemblage.
E. Drill not more than six temporary geological exploratory core holes within any
project area located within the perimeter of a circle having a radius of 1,000 yards or less.
F. Install, alter or relocate any part of any fire hydrant on private property.
H. Land any aircraft including helicopters, except in an emergency, any place other
than an airport or heliport which is regulated under the provisions of Division 101 of this
article.
A. The Chief shall investigate every application for a Permit. Such investigation
shall be made by authorized members of the Department.
B. The Chief may require additional information as may be necessary to carry out
the investigation of the application for a Permit.
C. If, after investigation and consideration of the application and any, plans and
specifications in connection therewith, the Chief shall determine that the proposed work
or operation will not create any undue fire hazard and that it will conform to the
provisions of this article and of other relevant laws. Then the Chief shall approve the
application. The issuance of the Permit may be subject to conditions as may be necessary
for the safeguarding of life and property from the hazards of fire, explosion, or panic.
E. The permittee accepts the Permit subject to all of the provisions and
requirements of this article.
G. No person shall deviate from any approved plan or specification or fail, neglect,
or refuse to comply therewith, except for minor additions or alterations approved by the
Department.
Every Permit shall be prepared and issued by the Department in accordance with the
provisions of this division and shall have set forth upon the face thereof the following:
Every Permit issued pursuant to the provisions of this division shall be posted on the
premises or shall be kept on file on the premises so as to be readily available for
inspection by authorized members of the Department.
When the Department has found, by survey or inspection, or both, that the work
authorized by a Permit granted in accordance with the requirements of Subsection A of
Section 57.05.20 of this article has been completed in accordance with the requirements
of the Permit issued therefor and all of the provisions of this article, the Department shall
issue a Final Inspection Tag of Approval. No such appliance, device, equipment, or
system shall be used until the Final Inspection Tag of Approval has been issued by the
Department. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
Duplicate Permits may be issued by the Department to replace any previously issued
Permit which has been lost or destroyed upon the filing of a statement by the permittee or
an authorized representative attesting to such action and upon payment to the Department
of a fee of $1.00 therefor.
Fee exempt permits, without the payment of the fees prescribed by this division shall
be issued to the following:
1. City of Los Angeles, County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Unified School
District, Los Angeles Community College District, or any municipal corporation,
department, or office thereof.
A. Before accepting an application for any Permit required by this division, the
Department shall collect the fees required therefor established by the most current cost
recovery schedule published as provided by Section 57.04.12 C and applicable thereto.
Upon payment of said fees the Department shall cause them to be deposited with the City
Treasurer.
Fees established by the procedure set forth in Section 57.04.12-C of this article shall
apply to Permits for the following:
No fee shall be charged for the issuance of a permit for the installation, closure,
addition to or alteration of an atmospheric underground tank or tank system.
2. Pressure Vessel:
3. Special Vessel:
4. Gas Holder:
6. Dip Tank:
8. Drying Oven.
9. Industrial Oven or Furnace not otherwise specified.
12. Automatic Fire Extinguishing System other than automatic sprinkler system.
B. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) When the length of time spent in
plan checking with regard to a particular permit is such that the charge for hours spent, as
computed in accordance with the cost recovery schedule established under 57.04.12-C,
Item 31, exceeds the schedule fee for issuing a permit for that category of activity, the
charge as computed pursuant to Section 57.04.12-C, Item 31, shall be paid to the
Department before any permit is issued.
c. Aerial burst with mortars over six inches in diameter; per day or portion thereof.
2. Conduct any blasting operation; fee per four-hour period or portion thereof.
3. Conduct any exhibit, show, circus, or carnival; fee per day or portion thereof.
5. Drill not more than six temporary geological exploratory core holes located
within the perimeter of a circle having a radius of 1,000 yards or less:
a. Not over 1,500 feet in depth nor over five inches in diameter; fee for each permit
plus fee for each four-hour period or fraction thereof;
Such permit to be in effect for the duration of drilling operations and until core holes
are abandoned in a manner approved by the Chief.
b. Over 1,500 feet in depth or greater than five inches in diameter; fee for each 30
days of drilling operations, which shall include time for abandoning core hole in a
manner approved by the Chief.
6. Land any aircraft, including helicopters any place other than an approved airport
or heliport.
12. Operate or maintain a live theatrical production, other than a live production in
a theater with a seating capacity of 99 persons or less.
F. When two or more items of the same classification are installed on the same
premises by authority of the same Permit, the inspection fee required by this section shall
be computed on the basis of 100 percent of the fee required for the first item, plus 50
percent of the fee for each additional item. The inspection fee for such multiple
installations shall be equal to the greatest fee required by this section for a single
installation of any item thereon.
The Department may, at its discretion, make emergency inspections at other than
normal working hours when requested to do so by the permittee. The Board, with the
concurrence of the Director of the Office of Administrative and Research Services
(Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.), shall determine from the
cost of such inspection the fee therefor for every four hours or fraction thereof of
inspection time pursuant to the provisions of Subsection C of Section 57.04.12 of this
article. For the purpose of this section, normal working hours shall be construed to mean
the hours between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. of any day except Saturdays, Sundays, and
legal holidays.
Inspections of business operations that normally function after 5:00 p.m. and on
Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays shall not be deemed to be emergency inspections
and shall not be charged the fee specified by this section.
2. The total aggregate liability under the blanket bond shall be limited to the sum of
$3,000.00; provided, however, that the maximum liability for any one core hole shall not
exceed the sum of $1,000.00.
B. The bond shall be so conditioned that the principal shall comply with any of the
provisions and requirements of this article, and any and all amendments thereof, and that
in default thereof, the principal shall pay to the City of Los Angeles, any loss or damage
resulting therefrom and shall reimburse the City for the costs and expenses of the proper
abandonment of such core hole.
C. In lieu of a surety bond as here and above prescribed, the Chief may accept as
such bond and in lieu of any other bond, an agreement of indemnity executed by the
applicant or permittee and accompanied by a physical deposit of cash in substantially the
following form and manner.
1. The applicant or permittee shall deposit and at all times maintain on deposit with
the Treasurer of the City of Los Angeles, an amount in cash equivalent to the amount of
the bond required by this article;
2. The applicant or permittee shall, concurrently with the making of said deposit,
execute and deliver to the Chief an agreement in writing subject to the approval of the
City Attorney confirming such deposit and agreeing to indemnify the City against any
loss and damage arising out of the failure on the part of the applicant or permittee
faithfully to comply with any of the provisions of this article;
3. The City Treasurer shall have the custody of the cash deposited hereunder;
4. The Chief may determine the fact of a default by the applicant or permittee in the
performance of all of the terms and conditions of this article and the amount of loss or
damage sustained by the City thereby provided for and order the reimbursement thereof
from the deposit. The Chief shall transmit his findings and order to the Treasurer who
may without notice reimburse the City for the loss and damage found by the Chief to
have been sustained;
5. The agreement of indemnity herein provided for may set forth such additional
terms and conditions as in the judgment of the Chief may be necessary or convenient to
carry out the purposes and intent of this article.
D. Whenever the Chief, as elsewhere in this article provided, extends the time
within which a permittee may perform any acts required by this article, such extension of
time shall not be deemed to exonerate or discharge any surety upon any bond filed
hereunder.
E. The Chief shall have the power to authorize all necessary acts to be done to make
any such temporary geological exploratory core hole comply with the provisions of this
article relating thereto, or to perform the necessary acts to abandon and demolish any
such core hole, and to restore the property to its natural condition, and the City Controller
of this City shall approve all warrants held by the Chief Treasurer of this City for the
necessary expense incurred in correcting the violations of this article relating thereto, and
the abandoning and the demolition of any such core hole.
F. The term of each such bond shall begin upon the date thereof and shall terminate
upon the proper abandonment of such core hole in the manner required by this section.
Every applicant for a blasting permit shall file with the Department evidence of
general liability insurance having such dollar limits and coverage inclusions as the
Department may from time to time require. All such insurance shall conform to the
conditions stated on the City’s General Liability Special Endorsement form and must be
approved by the Office of the City Attorney, Insurance and Bonds Section, prior to the
issuance of a permit.
Every applicant for a permit to conduct a fireworks display shall submit evidence of
having a Fireworks Public Display License or a Fireworks General Public Display
License granted by the State Fire Marshal.
Each application for a permit for the drilling or redrilling of any oil well shall be
accompanied by a bond or deposit in accordance with Section 57.04.14 of this article.
DIVISION 6
CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS
Section
57.06.15 Fees.
6. Automatic elevators
9. Fire escapes
EXCEPTIONS:
1. The Chief may allow persons who are employees of the firm or corporation
where the fire protection equipment or systems are to be tested to perform required tests
provided such tests are performed in accordance with Regulation No. 4, “Testing of Fire
Protection Equipment.”
EXCEPTION:
All applications for Certificates of Fitness shall be filed in the office of the Bureau of
Fire Prevention and Public Safety upon forms provided by the Department.
Certificates of Fitness shall be valid only for the person designated on the Certificate.
A. The Chief shall examine each applicant for competence to perform the duties
required for the particular Certificate of Fitness for which they have applied. The
applicant shall:
C. When the Chief determines the applicant for a Certificate of Fitness conforms to
all the requirements of this article, the Chief shall issue the Certificate of Fitness.
Every Certificate of Fitness issued in accordance with the provisions of this division
shall be valid for a period of three years from the date of issuance, and may be renewed
for additional three-year periods at the discretion of the Chief as set forth below.
The Chief shall have the power to suspend or revoke any Certificate of Fitness in
accordance with the provisions of Division 3 of this article.
Each person holding a Certificate of Fitness shall notify the Department in writing of
any change of his business, residential, or notification address within 10 days after such
change. Failure on the part of said person to give such notification shall constitute
grounds for revocation of said Certificate.
The Certificate of Fitness issued by the Chief shall be in the form of an identification
card which shall:
H. Contain additional information which the Chief considers necessary and proper
to effect the purpose of this article.
Any applicant who takes the examination and fails may not re-apply within 30 days,
and in no event shall the examination be given to the same person more than twice in any
one-year period.
EXCEPTION:
When applicant shows proof of Certificate of Registration by the State Fire Marshal,
this fee shall be waived.
3. Conduct any test or certify the following categories of fire protection equipment,
systems, or devices:
f. Automatic elevators
k. Fire pumps
Fee exempt Certificate of Fitness, without the payment of prescribed by this division
shall be issued to the following: City of Angeles, County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles
City School Districts, Los Angeles Community College District, or any municipal
corporation, department, or office thereof.
DIVISION 7
L.A.F.D. STANDARDS
Section
A. The Los Angeles Fire Department Standards that are referred throughout this
article are set forth in this section by title and date of publication, and are hereby adopted
as a part of the Los Angeles Fire Code.
4. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 4: “Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection,”
N.F.P.A. 15, 1985.
7. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 7: “Ovens and Furnaces,” N.F.P.A. 86, 1985; “Industrial
Furnaces Using A Special Processing Atmosphere,” N.F.P.A. 86C, 1984; and “Industrial
Furnaces Using Vacuum As An Atmosphere,” N.F.P.A. 86D, 1985.
12. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 12: “Recommended Rules For the Design and
Construction of Large, Welded, Low Pressure Storage Tanks,” A.P.I. Standard 620, Sixth
Edition, 1978.
13. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 13: “A.P.I. Specifications for Oil Storage Tanks with
Riveted Shells,” A.P.I. Standard 12A, March 1941.
14. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 14: “Specifications for Bolted Tanks for Storage of
Production Liquids,” A.P.I. Standard 12B, Twelfth Edition, January 1977.
15. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 15: “Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage,” A.P.I.
Standard 650, Seventh Edition, 1980.
16. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 16: “Specification for Field Welded Tanks for Storage of
Production Liquids,” A.P.I Standard 12D, Ninth Edition, January 1982.
17. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 17: “Specification for Shop Welded Tanks for Storage of
Production Liquids,” A.P.I. Standard 12F, Eighth Edition, January 1982.
18. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 18: “Emergency Relief Venting For Fire Exposure For
Above Ground Tanks,” N.F.P.A. 30,1981, Appendix A; and “Venting Atmospheric and
Low-pressure Storage Tanks,” A.P.I. Standard 2000, Third Edition 1982.
19. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19: “Unfired Pressure Vessels,” Section VIII, A.S.M.E.
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, with Addenda, 1983 Edition.
20. (None)
21. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 21: “Power Piping,” A.N.S.I./A.S.M.E. B31.1, 1983,
with Addenda B31.1A 1980; and “Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping”
A.N.S.I./A.S.M.E. B31.3—1984; and “Liquid Petroleum Transportation Piping
Systems”, A.N.S.I./A.S.M.E. B31.4—1979; and “Gas Transmission and Distribution
Piping Systems,” A.N.S.I./A.S.M.E. B31.8—1982.
22. L.A.F.D. No. 22: “Welding Qualifications,” Section IX. A.S.M.E. Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Code,” with Addenda, June 1983
23. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 23: “A.P.I. Specifications for Steel Derricks,” A.P.I.
Standard 4A, April 1967.
24. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 24: “A.P.I. Specifications for Portable Masts,” A.P.I.
Standard 4D, March 1967.
27. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 27: “Guide for Explosion Venting,” N.F.P.A. 68, 1978.
28. (None)
29. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 29: “Chemical Safety Data Sheet SD-20 Properties and
Essential Information for Safe Handling and Use Sulphuric Acid,” Manufacturing
Chemists Association, Inc. 1963.
30. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 30: “Manual Sheet TC-2, Recommended Practice for
Unloading Tank Cars When Filled With Muriatic Acid, Phosphoric Acid or Other
Authorized Liquids, Manufacturing Chemists Association, 1945.
31. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 31: “Manual Sheet TC-3, Recommended Practice For
Unloading Tank Cars When Filled With Caustic Soda or Caustic Potash,” Manufacturing
Chemists Association, 1952.
32. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 32: “Manual Sheet TC-4, Recommended Practice For
Unloading Tank Cars When Filled With Flammable Liquids,” Manufacturing Chemists
Association, 1952.
33. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 33: “Standard Test Method For Flash Point By Tag
Closed Tester,” A.S.T.M. D56-82; and “Flash Point Of Liquids By Setaflash Closed
Tester Based On Standard Test Method,” A.S.T.M. D3278-82.
34. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 34: “Standard Test Method For Flash And Fire Points
By Cleveland Open Cup,” A.S.T.M. D92-78.
35. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 35: “Standard Test Methods For Flash Point By Pensky-
Martens Closed Tester,” A.S.T.M. D93-80.
36. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 36: “Standard Test Method For Vapor Pressure Of
Petroleum Products (Reid Method),” A.S.T.M. D323-82
37. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 37: “Atmospheric Tank Construction,” Los Angeles Fire
Department, 1985.
38. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 38: “Specifications for the Construction of Gasholders,”
Los Angeles Fire Department, 1967.
39. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 39: “Local Protective Signaling Systems,” N.F.P.A.
72A, 1985; and “Auxiliary Protective Signaling Systems,” N.F.P.A. 72B, 1979;
and “Remote Station Protective Signaling Systems,” N.F.P.A. 72C, 1982;
and “Proprietary Protective Signaling Systems,” N.F.P.A. 72D, 1979; and “Automatic
Fire Detectors,” N.F.P.A. 72E, 1984.
40. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 40: “Specifications For The Construction Of Hazardous
Material Storage Cabinets And Portable Magazines,” Los Angeles Fire Department,
1977.
41. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 41: “Specifications For The Construction Of Roofing
Kettles,” Los Angeles Fire Department, 1978.
42. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 42: “Installation and Operation Of Pulverized Fuel
Systems,” N.F.P.A. 85F, 1982; and “Manufacturing And Handling Starch,” N.F.P.A.
61A, 1984; and “Prevention Of Fires And Dust Explosions In Feed Mills,” N.F.P.A. 61C,
1984; and “Prevention Of Dust Explosions In Industrial Plants,” N.F.P.A. 63, 1975;
and “Installation Of Blower And Exhaust Systems For Dust, Stock, And Vapor Removal
Or Conveying,” N.F.P.A. 91, 1983.
43. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 43: “Method For Determining The Flammability Of
Solid Materials,” Los Angeles Fire Department, 1976.
44. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 44: “Method For Determining The Flammability Of
Materials Contained In Aerosol Dispensers,” Los Angeles Fire Department, 1967.
45. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 45: “L.A.F.D. Specifications for Blow-Out Protection
for Oil Wells,” 1959.
46. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 46: “Non-flammable Medical Gas Systems,” N.F.P.A.
56-F, 1983.
47. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 47: “Bulk Oxygen Systems at Consumer Sites,”
N.F.P.A. 50,1979.
48. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 48: “Safe Practice for Welding and Cutting Containers
that have held Combustibles,” A60-52, American Welding Society, 1952; and “Safety in
Welding and Cutting,” ANSI Z 49.1-1973. U.D.C. 621.791; 614.8.
49. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 49: “Fire Safety Standard for Powered Industrial
Trucks,” N.F.P.A. 505, 1982.
50. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 50: “Design and Installation of Oxygen-Fuel Gas
Systems for Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes,” N.F.P.A. 51, 1983.
51. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 51: “Fire Prevention in Use of Cutting and Welding
Processes,” N.F.P.A. 51B, 1984.
52. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 52: “Specifications for the Testing of Fire Retardant
Surface Finishes and Methods of Application on Furnishings or Structures,” Los Angeles
Fire Department, 1985.
53. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 53: “Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems,”
N.F.P.A. 14,1983; and “Standard for Screw Threads and Gaskets for Fire Hose
Connections,” N.F.P.A. 1963, 1985.
54. LAFD Standard No. 54: “Heliport Design,” FAA Advisory Circular 150/5390-
2A, January 20, 1994. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
55. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 55: “Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems,” N.F.P.A.
12A, 1985; and “Halon 1211 Fire Extinguishing Systems,” N.F.P.A. 12B, 1980.
56. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 56: “Construction and Protection of Aircraft Loading
Walkways,” N.F.P.A. 417, I985.
57. (None)
58. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58: “Standard System for the Identification of the Fire
Hazards of Materials,” N.F.P.A. 704, 1985.
60. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 60: “Aircraft Fuel Servicing,” N.F.P.A. 407, 1985.
61. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 61: “Indoor General Storage,” N.F.P.A. 231,1985;
and “Rack Storage of Materials,” N.F.P.A. 231C, 1980.
62. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 62: “Spark Arrester Guide,” U.S. Department Of
Agriculture, Forest Service, Publ. June 1983.
63. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 63: “Storage of Aerosol Products,” Factory Mutual Los
Prevention Data 7-29S, June 1981.
64. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 64: “Production, Processing, Handling and Storage of
Titanium,” N.F.P.A. 481, 1982; and “Processing and Finishing of Aluminum,” N.F.P.A.
65, 1980; and “Storage, Handling and Processing of Magnesium,” N.F.P.A. 48, 1982.
65. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 65: “Organic Peroxides,” Factory Mutual Loss
Prevention Data 7-80, March 1972; and “Organic Peroxides Hazard Classification,”
Factory Mutual Loss Prevention Data 7-81, February 1974.
66. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 66: “Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame-Resistant
Textiles and Films,” N.F.P.A. 701, Chapter 6, 1977.
67. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 67: “Central Station Signaling Systems,” N.F.P.A., 71,
1985. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
68. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 68: “Hazardous Materials,” Article 80, Uniform Fire
Code, 1988. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
B. Three Copies of each Los Angeles Fire Department Standard shall be maintained
on file in the Research Unit Reference Library for inspection by the public as required by
Section 50022.6 of the Government Code of the State of California. In addition, there
shall be one copy of each L.A.F.D. Standard maintained on file at each Fire Prevention
District Office.
DIVISION 8
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RELEASE RESPONSE PLANS AND
INVENTORY STATEMENTS
(Title and Division Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)
Section
57.08.01 Scope.
57.08.02 Definitions.
This division sets forth the requirements concerning the administration and regulation
of the Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans (HMRRP) and Inventory reporting
requirements pursuant to the requirements of Article 1 (commencing with Section 25501)
of the California Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.95, and the Uniform Fire
Code Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials
Inventory Statement (HMIS) requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 68, for businesses
located in the City of Los Angeles.
SEC. 57.08.02. DEFINITIONS.
The following words or group of words, when used in this division, shall be defined as
follows:
Act - Chapter 6.95, Article 1, commencing with Sections 25500 through 25520, of
Division 20 of the California Health and Safety Code, setting forth the State provisions
enacting Business Plans.
Business – Any employer, self-employed individual, trust, firm, joint stock company,
corporation, partnership, association, institution or public agency. The term business shall
include both for profit and nonprofit enterprises.
(1) The information contained in the annual inventory form most recently submitted
to the administering agency is complete, accurate, and up to date.
(2) There has been no change in the quantity of any hazardous material as reported
in the most recently submitted annual inventory form.
(3) No hazardous materials subject to the inventory requirements of this chapter are
being handled that are not listed on the most recently submitted annual inventory form.
(4) The most recently submitted annual inventory form contains the information
required by Section 11022 of Title 42 of the United States Code.
Handle – Includes generate, sell, possess, process, store, discharge, dispose or use.
Owner of Business – includes any officer, director, supervisor, or other person having
discretionary, as distinguished from ministerial, responsibility for a business at the
address set forth in the Permit.
On-site Manager – The person or persons who directs or controls a business at a
particular location or site.
Threatened Release - Includes, but is not limited to, any condition creating a
substantial probability of harm, when the probability and potential extent of harm make it
reasonably necessary to take immediate action to prevent, reduce, or mitigate damages to
persons, property, or to the environment.
Trade Secret – Includes, but is not limited to, any formula, plan, pattern, process, tool,
mechanism, compound, procedure, production data, or compilation of information which
is not patented, which is known only to certain individuals within a commercial concern
who are using it to fabricate, produce, or compound an article of trade or a service having
commercial value, and which gives its user an opportunity to obtain a business advantage
over competitors who do not know or use it.
It shall be the duty of each on-site manager and the owner of a business, as well as the
property owner, to assure compliance with the following provisions:
C. The issuance of a Division 14 Unified Program Facility Permit with the HMRRP
authorization required by this division does not authorize or permit the handling of
hazardous substances, nor does it except or exempt the holder from compliance with, or
affect in any way the applicability of, any other federal, state, or local law, rule, or
regulation governing hazardous substances.
B. Business plans shall include, but not be limited to, the following information:
1. Inventory. The annual inventory form shall include, but shall not be limited to,
information on all of the following which are handled in quantities equal to or greater
than the quantities specified in this division or the Act:
(a) A listing of the chemical name and common names of every hazardous
substance or chemical product handled by the business.
(b) The category of waste, including the general chemical and mineral composition
of the waste listed by probable maximum and minimum concentrations, of every
hazardous waste handled by the business.
(c) A listing of the chemical name and common names of every other hazardous
material or mixture containing a hazardous material handled by the business which is not
otherwise listed pursuant to Paragraph (a) or (b).
(e) Sufficient information on how and where the hazardous materials disclosed in
Paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) are handled by the business to allow fire, safety, health, and
other appropriate personnel to prepare adequate emergency responses to potential
releases of the hazardous materials.
(f) The SIC Code number of the business if applicable.
(g) The name and phone number of the person representing the business and able to
assist emergency personnel in the event of an emergency involving the business during
nonbusiness hours.
2. Emergency Response Plans and Procedures. The business plan shall include the
following emergency response procedures for a release or threatened release of hazardous
materials, which shall be reasonable and appropriate for the size and nature of the
business, the nature of the damage potential of the hazardous materials handled, and the
proximity of the business to residential areas and other populations:
(iii) persons within the facility who are necessary to respond to an incident;
(e) identification of areas of the facility and mechanical or other systems that
require immediate inspection or isolation because of their vulnerability to earthquake
related ground motion.
3. Training.
(a) The business plan shall include a training program which shall be reasonable
and appropriate for the size of the business and the nature of the hazardous materials
handled. The training program shall take into consideration the responsibilities of the
employees to be trained. The training program shall, at a minimum, include:
(iii) use of emergency response equipment and supplies under the control of the
handler, and
(b) The business plan shall include provisions for ensuring that appropriate
personnel receive initial and refresher training.
C. Businesses which are required to comply with the Permit requirements set forth
in Paragraph A. of Section 57.08.03 of this division shall be required to submit a
hazardous materials inventory as indicated in Subdivision (1) of Subsection B. of this
section.
D. Businesses which are required to comply with the Permit requirements set forth
in Paragraph A. of Section 57.08.03 of this division may be required to submit a business
plan as indicated in Subsection B. of this section.
A business which has filed a hazardous materials inventory form shall file an
amendment to the Form with the Department before:
A. The business handles a hazardous substance not previously listed on the Form on
file with the Department; or
A nuisance exists when a business handles a hazardous substance that has not been
disclosed on a Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste Inventory Form or as
otherwise required by this division. If a business is not in compliance and a special
inspection is needed to obtain information required by this division concerning hazardous
substances handled by the business, the City, after due notice, may conduct a special
inspection and may thereafter recover the costs of the inspection, together with any
administrative costs and the fee for issuance of a Permit. All costs incurred pursuant to
this section shall be a personal obligation against the owner of the business and the owner
of the property, jointly and severally, and shall be recoverable by the City in an action
before any court of competent jurisdiction. In addition to this personal obligation and all
other remedies provided by law, the City may collect any judgment, fee, cost, or charge,
including any permit fees, fines, late charges, or interest, incurred in relation to the
provisions of this section as provided in Los Angeles Administrative Code Sections
7.35.1 through 7.35.8.
At the discretion of the Chief, inspections may be conducted for the purpose of
determining compliance with this division and to cause to be corrected any information
which is discovered to be either different from information in the application for a Permit
or HMRRP authorization or any amendment to the Hazardous Materials and Hazardous
Waste Inventory Form filed with the City, or inaccurate, concerning the handling of
hazardous substances at a business site.
SEC. 57.08.11. PERMIT AND FORM REQUIREMENTS.
The original or a copy of the current Permit with HMRRP authorizations issued to a
business shall be posted in a conspicuous place at the business site. The original Permit
shall be maintained and available at all times at the business site for inspection by the
Department.
B. Forms Maintained:
Copies of all hazardous materials inventory forms shall be maintained at the business
site for a period of not less than three years and shall be made available to the Chief upon
request.
A. Identification:
B. Nondisclosure:
D. Acknowledgment of Receipt:
The Department, upon receipt of a written request under the Public Records Act from
any person for the disclosure of information which a business has notified the
Department it seeks to protect as a trade secret pursuant to Subsection A of this section,
shall notify the business within two working days by personal service or by certified mail
return receipt requested, that a request for disclosure of trade secret information has been
received by the Department. The Department shall also inform the business that it should
immediately file the written substantiation of its claim of trade secret required by
Subsection A of this section, if it has not already done so, and any other relevant
information it may wish to file with the Department.
Upon receipt of a request for disclosure of trade secret information, the Department
shall forward a copy of the request, together with any substantiation of the trade secret
claim and the Department’s proposed determination to the City Attorney for review and
comment.
Within 10 days after the receipt of a written request for disclosure of trade secret
information, the Department shall make a final determination whether or not to comply
with the request and shall immediately notify both the person requesting the information
and the business of such determination and reasons therefor.
Section
57.09.01 Scope.
57.09.02 Definitions.
57.09.05 Signs.
57.09.06 Fire-flow.
57.09.10 Notification.
This division regulates Fire Department access, fire hydrants, and fire-flow. Fire
hydrant and fire-flow requirements are based upon land use. Also included are minimum
requirements for Supplemental Fire Protection based on Fire Department response time
capabilities, personnel, apparatus availability, and fire-flow.
Access Road – A way designated for vehicular travel which provides access from the
public street or alley to buildings or structures upon the premises.
Fire-flow – The quantity of water available or needed for fire protection in a given
area. Fire-flow is normally measured both in gallons per minute G.P.M. and duration of
flow.
Fire Lane – A roadway which is required to provide access for Fire Department
apparatus and which conforms to all requirements of this division.
Supplemental Fire Protection – Equipment and systems, and the arrangement and
alterations of such equipment and systems not otherwise required in the Los Angeles
Municipal Code which are accepted in lieu of or are required in addition to compliance
with the specific requirements of this division as determined by the Chief.
B. If any portion of the first story exterior walls of any building structure is more
than 150 feet from the edge of the roadway of an approved street, an approved fire lane
shall be provided so that such portion is within 150 feet of the edge of the fire lane.
EXCEPTION:
An entrance to any dwelling unit or guest room shall not be more than 150 feet in
distance of horizontal travel from the edge of roadway of an improved street or approved
fire lane.
D. Where fire lanes are required under Subsection B of this section to provide
access for Fire Department emergency vehicles, and such fire lanes are other than access
roads, they shall be granted to the City without cost as easements from a public street or
alley to the required terminal point. Provided, however, that the easement requirement
may be waived, unless otherwise required by the General Plan of the City of Los
Angeles, where the Department determines that the acquisition of an easement is not
necessary for the protection of the public safety and welfare. Fire lanes shall be
designated and maintained as follows:
1. Fire lanes shall have a minimum clear roadway width of 20 feet when no parking
is allowed on either side.
2. Those portions of a fire lane which must accommodate the operation of Fire
Department aerial ladder apparatus shall have a minimum clear roadway width of 28 feet
when no parking is allowed on either side.
3. Those portions of a fire lane 30 feet on either side of a private fire hydrant shall
have a minimum clear roadway width of 28 feet. No parking shall be permitted within
those portions of the roadway which are within 30 feet of and on the same side of the
roadway as a private fire hydrant. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
4. Where parking is allowed on only one side of a required fire lane parking shall be
on the same side of the roadway as the hydrants.
5. Where parallel parking is allowed on either side of a fire lane, the roadway width
shall be increased eight feet for each parking lane. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)
7. Deadend fire lanes shall terminate in cul-de-sacs or other approved turning areas
consistent with the Department of Public Works Standard Street Dimension Plan D-
22549. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
8. Fire lanes shall be paved to the City Engineer’s standards for public alleys.
Any person owning or having control of any facility, structure, group of structures or
premises, shall maintain all fire lanes in an unobstructed manner.
EXCEPTION:
A. Fire lanes shall be posted with signs not less than 17 inches by 22 inches in size,
with lettering not less than one inch in height, stating “NO PARKING — DESIGNATED
FIRE LANE. VIOLATORS WILL BE CITED VEHICLE CODE SECTION 22500.1.
VEHICLES PARKED IN VIOLATION WILL BE TOWED AWAY AT OWNER’S
EXPENSE.” Signs shall also contain a telephone number of the Los Angeles Police
Department which may be called by the person owning the vehicle to find out where it
has been towed. Signs shall be in plain view at all entrances to required fire lanes and the
spacing of signs shall be as required by the Chief. The bottom of such signs shall be six
feet above the adjacent ground surface. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
TABLE 9-A
1. Where street alignments mandate the installation of dead-end mains, the fire-flow
in gallons per minute may be adjusted downward, depending on the type of land
development.
TABLE 9-B
Type of Land Development
Net Land Area Served Per Hydrant
Distance Between Hydrants on Roads and Fire Lanes
Type of Hydrant
* This figure will be systematically reduced where greater fire- flow is required due
to restricted access, depth of lots, length of blocks, or additional hazards.
1. Every first story dwelling unit, first story guest room, and all first story portions
of any commercial or industrial building must be within 300 feet of an approved fire
hydrant.
2. All fire hydrants shall have 21/2" x 4" outlets or 4" x 4" outlets and conform to
the minimum standards of the American Water Works Association for wet barrel
hydrants. A minimum of one fire hydrant is to be provided at each intersection. “Built-
up” type single 2-1/2" outlet hydrants (6" pipe surmounted by an angle valve) shall be
used in areas having a static water pressure of 210 P.S.I. or more.
3. Streets with raised median center dividers, excessive traffic loads, or more than
80 feet in dedicated width require the installation of hydrants on both sides of the street.
Additional intermediate hydrants are required in areas where restricted access, depth of
lots, or blocks exceeding the maximum hydrant spacing intervals exist.
C. Land use and required fire flow. (Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
Fire Flow
** Maximum Response Distance to
Residential
Housing an Engine or Truck Company
(CONT.)
Commercial
*** Housing an Engine Company and Truck Company
Engine Company
Truck Company
* Land use designations are contained in the community plan elements of the
General Plan for the City of Los Angeles.
** The maximum response distance to LAFD fire stations pertains to areas outside
the boundaries covered by the Hillside Ordinance (Ordinance Number 168,159). When a
portion of any subdivision, as that term is defined in Section 17.02 of the Los Angeles
Municipal Code, falls outside of the one and one-half mile distance requirement,
automatic fire sprinklers will not be required in that portion whenever a review by the
Chief has determined that no unacceptable increase in hazard to the public will result.
*** The maximum response distances for both LAFD fire suppression companies
(engine and truck) must be satisfied.
A. Response distances based on land use and fire flow requirements shall comply
with Table 9-C. These requirements pertain to all buildings and structures, groups of
structures, or facilities unless otherwise determined by the Chief.
B. Where a response distance is greater than that shown in Table 9-C, all structures
shall be constructed with automatic fire sprinkler systems. Additional fire protection
shall be provided as required by the Chief.
A. Where the Chief determines that any or all of the supplemental fire protection
equipment or systems described in this section may be substituted in lieu of the
requirements of this division with respect to any facility, structure, group of structures or
premises, the person owning or having control thereof shall either conform to the
requirements of this division or shall install such supplemental equipment or systems.
Where the Chief determines that any or all of such equipment or systems is necessary in
addition to the requirements of this division as to any facility, structure, group of
structures or premises, the owner thereof shall install such required equipment or
systems.
2. Fire hydrants which shall be installed in accordance with section 57.09.06 of this
division, or as required by the Chief.
4. Smoke removal systems which shall be designed for the hazard to be protected
and shall be approved by the Chief.
5. Standpipe systems which shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).
Any person owning, controlling, or otherwise having charge of any Supplemental Fire
Protection equipment or systems as required by the division shall immediately notify the
Fire Department at any time such protection is inoperable or taken out of service. The
Fire Department shall also be notified when Supplemental Fire Protection is restored to
service.
1. The height in inches of any number or letter therein shall be the sum of one-tenth
(1/10) of the distance in feet of the number from the boundary of the property (upon
which the building, structure, or parking lot is situated) abutting the street, plus two (2),
providing that every number shall not be less than four inches in height.
2. The overall width of any figure in or comprising the number or letter shall be
one-half (1/2) of its height.
3. The width of any portion of a figure in or comprising the number or letter shall
be one-tenth (1/10) of its height.
C. Design (including shape and style) as well as location of the street address
numbers shall be such that they are legible and easily readable. Irrespective of whether
the street address number was established before or after June 1, 1973, the Chief shall
have the authority to prescribe a street address number larger in size than the dimensions
stated in Subsection B when it is determined that due to lighting conditions, building
location, shadows, background, or other reasons, street address numbers of minimum
dimensions will not be easily readable from the street or approach to the entrance. A
street address number of unusual design or placement may not be employed without prior
written approval of the Chief.
DIVISION 10
ASBESTOS ABATEMENT
Section
57.10.01 Scope.
57.10.02 Definitions.
57.10.03 Inspections.
57.10.05 Fees.
57.10.08 Exits.
57.10.10 Signage.
57.10.11 Extinguishers.
57.10.14 Communications.
57.10.22 Smoking.
This division sets forth the minimum fire and life safety requirements for the removal
of asbestos containing materials, including, but not limited to, fire protective coatings.
Clean Room - The room immediately adjacent to the work area from which the work
area is accessed.
Containment Area - Any area where critical barriers are taped and access is not
possible without respiratory protection.
Job Start - The abatement job begins with the taping of critical barriers.
B. The licensed contractor performing the asbestos abatement shall obtain the
required permit and shall pay all required fees.
C. A permit for asbestos abatement is good for 180 days from the date of issuance
and only for the specific project for which it is issued. Any project which is not
completed within that period of time shall require a new permit.
D. Permit fees shall be collected by the Fire Department upon application for a
permit.
E. Three 8-1/2" x 11" copies of a plot plan depicting all areas undergoing
abatement, drawn to scale, shall be provided by the contractor at the time of permit
application.
1. Each drawing must show the entire floor area, with north indicated at the top, and
clearly indicate the area(s) undergoing abatement by outlining in red.
2. All entrances and exits for each containment area must be shown. Any exit
which is blocked by the containment shall have the word “BLOCKED” printed next to it.
4. Location of the negative air machine emergency shut-off switch shall be shown.
Before accepting an application for any permit required by this division, the
Department will collect the fees established by the most current cost-recovery schedule
published as provided by Section 57.04.12C and applicable thereto. Upon payment of
said fees, the Department shall cause them to be deposited with the City Treasurer.
Fees established by the procedure set forth in Section 57.04.12C of this article shall
apply to permits for the following: (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
A. Residential occupancies shall pay a flat rate of $50, plus two cents per square
foot of ACM abated over 1,000 square feet. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff.
8/20/94.)
B. All other occupancies shall pay a flat rate of $50, plus four cents per square foot
of ACM abated over 1,000 square feet. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
A. The licensed contractor performing the abatement process shall submit to the
Los Angeles City Fire Department three properly completed copies of the SCAQMD
Rule 1403 Notification Form or separate sheets containing the same information at the
time of application for the permit to remove the ACM.
B. A separate letter shall be mailed by the contractor to the Fire Department within
48 hours of the completion of permitted work stating that the removal of asbestos is
complete and that all removed fireproofing has been replaced, including all required
respray, in a manner approved by the Department of Building and Safety. This letter
shall be signed by the contractor or by any subcontractor performing the respray.
If the contractor does not perform the respray, or cause the respray to be performed by
a subcontractor, the contractor shall forward a letter to the Fire Department within 48
hours of the completion of the work stating that the removal of the asbestos is complete,
that all required fireproofing has been replaced, if applicable, excluding respray, and
stating the name of the contractor hired to do the respray. If the name of the contractor
hired to do the respray is unavailable, the letter shall so state.
1. The name, address, and business and emergency phone numbers for the:
a. Asbestos Contractor.
b. Respray Contractor.
c. Project Consultant.
d. Job Superintendent.
2. Start and completion dates for the abatement project, including respray.
All plastics, spray-on strippable coatings, and structural materials used in the asbestos
abatement process must be certified as fire retardant or non-combustible. This includes,
but is not limited to, plastic sheeting, temporary structures, separations, supports, and
scaffolding. Wood which is pressure impregnated and certified as fire retardant is
acceptable. All pressure impregnated wood used shall be stamped by the approved
applicator (CCR Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8, Article 5) as being fire retardant, and the
stamp on the wood shall be visible upon inspection. Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDS) provided by the manufacturer shall be maintained at the job site for all fire
retardant plastics and shall be made available upon request by the Fire Department.
EXCEPTION:
Tape used to hang poly and to tape critical barriers need not be fire retardant.
Plexiglas used for viewing ports into the work area need not be fire retardant provided the
ports are not larger than four square feet and have a total aggregate area of less than 40
square feet.
For storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids, refer to L.A.M.C., Sections
57.30.20 and 57.30.30.
For spraying or application of flammable or combustible liquids, refer to L.A.M.C.,
Section 57.80.01.
A. The asbestos abatement process shall not cause a building to have an amount of
exiting less than that required for the existing occupant load. In all cases where the
required exiting must be obstructed, an alternate means of exiting must be provided
which is approved by the Fire Department and the Department of Building and Safety.
B. A minimum of two clearly marked exits shall be maintained from each floor
during the abatement process. The second exit from a containment area may be covered
with plastic upon approval of the Fire Department and the Department of Building and
Safety.
The covered exit shall be outlined with RED duct-type tape, and a cutting device shall
be kept immediately adjacent to the door in an obvious and readily accessible location.
The cutting device shall also be surrounded by a square of red duct-type tape as described
above.
D. At least one stairwell door shall open into a noncontaminated area of a floor
under containment, regardless of the size of containment.
2. A minimum of five clean buffer floors must separate each group from the next
five-floor group undergoing abatement.
3. Buffer floors must have all required fire and life safety equipment and fire
protective coatings in place.
In addition to the warning signs mandated by other regulatory agencies, the following
asbestos abatement signs are required:
A. Multistory Buildings:
1. A standard 20" x 14" red, black, and white asbestos abatement warning sign
placed in the Fire Control Room adjacent to the fire alarm annunciator panel.
2. A 12" x 12" sign with a minimum 3" high x 1/2" wide lettering on a contrasting
background indicating which floors are involved in the abatement process. This sign
shall be placed in the Fire Control Room adjacent to the fire alarm annunciator panel.
NOTE:
If no Fire Control Room exists, the warning signs required and described in
Subsections A1 and A2 above shall be placed adjacent to the building’s fire alarm
annunciator panel, or in a location approved by the Fire Department.
B. Single-Story Buildings:
1. A standard 20" x 14" red, black, and white asbestos abatement warning sign
placed in the Fire Control Room adjacent to the fire alarm annunciator panel.
2. A 12" x 12" sign with a minimum of 3" high x 1/2" wide lettering on a
contrasting background indicating which floor areas are involved in the abatement
process. This sign shall be placed in the Fire Control Room immediately adjacent to the
fire alarm annunciator panel.
NOTE:
If no Fire Control Room exists, the warning signs required and described in
Subsections B1 and B2 above shall be placed adjacent to the building’s fire alarm
annunciator panel or in an alternate location approved by the Fire Department.
B. At each corner of the work area. Where no clear corners exist, four
extinguishers shall be placed around the outermost wall of the work area so that they are
evenly spread around the perimeter of the outermost wall.
C. Within 5 feet of the external entry to the shower room from the work area.
D. Within 5 feet of the external entry to the shower room from the clean room.
EXCEPTION:
Where the total abatement containment area is less than 1,000 square feet, one
4A/60BC extinguisher shall be provided as in Subsection D above. All extinguisher
locations shall be clearly identified with appropriate signage.
B. All existing sprinkler systems shall remain active and unobstructed. Sprinkler
heads may be covered with a thin, .003" or less, plastic bag during abatement to avoid
their contamination.
C. Approved and listed wire sprinkler guards may be used to protect exposed heads
from physical damage.
A. All existing fire detection and alarm systems shall remain in place and active.
Any alteration to this equipment must be approved by both the Fire Department and the
Department of Building and Safety.
If a permit is granted for work that requires the system to be disabled, a Fire Watch
meeting all the requirements listed in Section 57.13.06 of the Fire Code must be
maintained at all times as described in Section 21 of this division.
B. Existing fire alarm manual pull boxes, Fire Department communication jacks,
and signaling systems shall be maintained in place and active. The foregoing items shall
be clearly marked with signs containing lettering which is a minimum of 3" high x 1/2"
wide on a contrasting background.
If the foregoing items are covered by plastic, each device shall be surrounded by a
square of red duct-type tape. In addition, a cutting device, also surrounded by a square of
red duct-type tape, shall be kept immediately adjacent to the device.
C. All fire and life safety systems which have been disconnected require joint
acceptance by the Fire Department and the Department of Building and Safety upon their
reconnection.
D. Fire-rated partitions, doors, and other fire cutoffs shall not be temporarily or
permanently modified without the joint approval of the Fire Department and the
Department of Building and Safety.
E. In the event that a containment area impedes the normal operation of any existing
elevator smoke detector, an additional temporary elevator recall smoke detector shall be
installed in the containment area under permit from the Department of Building and
Safety. Any such detector must be tested by the Fire Department before any abatement
work begins in that area.
D. All alternate means of communication other than a telephone are subject to field
inspector approval.
A. In all containment areas greater than 1,000 square feet, five “Tyvek” type
protective entry suits, rated for use in an asbestos containment area, shall be provided in
the clean room.
B. All suits shall be extra large and shall be kept in a red box clearly identified with
white 3” letters stating, “Fire Department Emergency Use Only.” The box shall be
readily accessible at all times.
A. All areas of any containment site shall be visible by use of viewing ports from an
uncontaminated area.
B. Viewing ports shall be at least 18” x 18” in size and shall be of clear Plexiglas or
other similar clear material. Opaque material is not acceptable for use as viewing ports.
A. A single switch or set of switches shall be provided for the emergency shutdown
of all negative air equipment located in the containment area. This switch or set of
switches:
B. All temporary power for the negative air equipment from the building shall be
installed and inspected under permit from the Department of Building and Safety.
All combustible rubbish and debris, including, but not limited to, properly bagged
asbestos, shall be removed and properly disposed of at the end of each working day, or
24-hour period if work is continuous 24 hours a day.
B. The building owner shall cause the respray of all fire protective coatings to be
accomplished under permit from the Department of Building and Safety within 15 days
of the contractor receiving final air-monitoring clearance.
In all asbestos abatement projects, regardless of size, one on-site supervisor selected
by the contractor shall be designated as the Safety Coordinator and shall be responsible
for the following:
B. Insuring that on-site personnel are aware of the location and proper use of all
extinguishers and other fire and life safety equipment.
B. The Fire Watch must inspect every area of the work site every 30 minutes during
working hours for fire and life safety problems and shall continue such inspections a
minimum of 30 minutes after the cessation of work.
C. A fire and life safety log must be maintained by the designated Fire Watch as
follows:
1. The log must be maintained from the beginning of the abatement process until
the final clean air certification is received.
2. When fire protective coating has been removed from structural members, the log
shall be maintained until all respray is complete.
3. The log shall be used solely for the recording of fire and life safety information
and shall be kept at the work site in the clean room at all times. It shall be available for
review by Fire Department representatives.
4. The log shall be a bound notebook or three-ring binder and shall contain the
following information for each working day:
a. The date.
d. The actual start and stop time of each patrol and the name of the Fire Watch
person conducting that patrol.
e. Entries describing any fire or life safety problem that was found and how it was
corrected.
f. A brief account of any fire incident, regardless of size, including all facts, names
of individuals involved, including witnesses, how it was extinguished, and the probable
cause. Included shall be the time and method of Fire Department notification.
g. A statement at the conclusion of each work day, signed by the on-site Safety
Coordinator, confirming that a survey of the work site has been made and any unsafe fire
and life safety conditions have been rectified.
E. The Fire Watch shall continue until the final clean air certification is received
and all respray is completed in buildings where fire protective coatings have been
removed.
3. Alternate fire alarm equipment requires the approval of the Fire Department and
the Department of Building and Safety.
G. Any work requiring the use of open flame shall require a Fire Watch standing by
with a 4A/60BC extinguisher until the completion of the project.
Smoking shall not be permitted inside any asbestos abatement area or within 25 feet of
any asbestos abatement area. Approved “NO SMOKING” signs shall be conspicuously
posted in accordance with Division 23 of this article. It shall be the responsibility of the
asbestos abatement contractor to enforce this prohibition.
DIVISION 11
FIRE RETARDANT FINISHES AND COATINGS
Section
57.11.01 Scope.
57.11.03 Tests.
57.11.04 Applicators.
A. This division shall regulate to all chemical formulations, paint coatings, or other
finishes which are sold, offered for sale, or advertised and which purport to reduce
surface flamespread rate or to reduce or eliminate combustible characteristics of
furnishings or structure. It shall apply only to existing structures for which a Certificate
of occupancy has been issued by the Department of Building and Safety.
B. This division shall not be deemed to regulate any interior or exterior surface
application which is regulated by Title 19 of the California Administrative Code or by
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
B. No approval, as required under this section, will be granted until tests have been
conducted to determine that any material regulated hereunder will fully comply with
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 52.
All tests required by this division shall be conducted by a laboratory acceptable to the
Chief. The applicant for the General Approval shall submit to the Chief a copy of each
laboratory test results within 3 days of the completion of each test irrespective of whether
the product tested passed or failed the test.
B. Any person applying fire retardant coatings shall apply such coatings in
compliance with the manufacturer’s specifications.
C. Each manufacturer shall file with the Department complete specifications for
application of such coatings.
Every person applying fire retardant coatings shall render to the customer for each
separate job location performed, a guarantee of not less than three years. Such guarantee
shall be secured by a surety bond, acceptable to the Chief and approved by the City
Attorney, a copy of which shall be filed with the Department.
DIVISION 12
OBSTRUCTIONS TO ROOFS AND ALL OPENINGS
Section
57.12.01 Scope.
57.12.02 Obstructions.
This division shall regulate obstructions on building roof, parapet walls and wall
openings which are determined by the Chief to be a fire/life safety hazard. These
provisions shall apply to all structures with the exception of Group M, Division 2
occupancies as defined in Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
A. No person shall install or maintain any wire, barbed wire, razor ribbon, fence,
cable, aerial, antenna, or other obstruction on any building roof, parapet wall, or openings
in an exterior wall required for Fire Department access, in such a manner as to obstruct
access or egress, or cause a hazardous condition in the event of fire or other emergency.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Guy wires, rods, aerial or antenna masts may be attached to a roof structure
having a slope of less than 30 degrees provided there is full clearance of seven feet or
more between the roof and said obstruction.
2. Guy wires or rods required to support aerial or antenna masts may be attached to
a roof structure a lateral distance from the mast not in excess of one-sixth the height of
the mast.
4. Buildings located within eight feet of utility poles or similar structures which
could otherwise be used to gain access to the building’s roof, balcony or similar surfaces.
Such obstruction may extend to where the surfaces are more than eight feet from the pole
or access structure but shall extend no farther.
B. Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $200.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
No person shall cause to be placed, stored, or maintained upon any roof or balcony
any hazardous materials or any material or object which may interfere with egress or Fire
Department operations in case of fire or other emergency.
Section
57.13.01 Scope.
57.13.02 Definition.
This division shall set forth the requirements of a fire watch when the Chief
determines that a building or premises presents a hazard to life or property as the result of
a fire or other emergency, or when it is determined that any fire protection equipment or
system is inoperable, defective, or has been taken out of service.
Fire Watch: The assignment of a qualified person or persons having the responsibility
for the continuous patrol of a building or premises for the purpose of detecting fires and
transmitting an immediate alarm to the building occupants and Fire Department.
B. Whenever the owner or person in charge does not provide fire watch personnel
as required, the Chief shall have the authority to assign uniformed Department members
until such time as required fire watch personnel are provided.
C. A fire watch shall be maintained until such time that the Chief determines that
the building or premises is safe from hazard to life or property, or when fire protection
equipment or systems are restored to service.
D. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $500.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
The owner, manager, or person in charge or control of the building or premises shall
assign to the fire watch as many personnel as are required by the Chief and shall instruct
fire watch personnel as to:
4. A procedure shall be provided for reactivating sprinkler valves in the event of fire
when the sprinkler system has been taken out of service and any other instruction
required by the Chief.
A. The owner, manager, or person in charge or control of the premises shall provide
a log book which contains a directory of names, telephone numbers, and other
information to assist in making emergency calls and calls to key management personnel,
and which shall be used to record a history of patrol rounds.
B. The log book shall be maintained on the premises and be available for inspection
by the Department.
D. Make reports as instructed. A written record of patrol rounds and any significant
information shall be recorded in a log book provided by management.
E. Relay any special orders or pertinent information to relief personnel.
Section
57.14.01 Scope.
57.14.02 Definitions.
This division sets forth the requirements concerning the “Unified Hazardous Waste
and Hazardous Materials Regulatory Management Program consolidated Permit”
(Unified Program Facility Permit) issued pursuant to Chapter 6.11 of Division 20 of the
California Health and Safety Code, for businesses located in the City of Los Angeles.
Businesses subject to any one or more of the following hazardous waste and hazardous
materials programs shall receive a single consolidated Permit and fee invoice:
3. Underground Storage Tank Program - The requirements of the Health and Safety
Code Division 20, Chapter 6.7 (commencing with Section 25280) concerning
underground storage tanks, except for the responsibilities assigned to the State Water
Resources Control Board pursuant to Section 25297.1, and any requirements of Division
31 of this Code pertaining to underground storage tanks.
The following words or group of words, when used in this division, shall be defined as
follows:
Above Ground Storage Tanks Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC)
Plan - Includes the requirements of Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.67,
Section 25270.5(c).
Business - Any employer, self-employed individual, trust, firm, joint stock company,
corporation, partnership, association, institution or public agency. The term business shall
include both for profit and nonprofit enterprises.
Certified Unified Program Agency or CUPA - The agency certified by the secretary to
implement the unified program specified in the Health and Safety Code, Division 20,
Chapter 6.11 within a jurisdiction.
Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program - Includes the requirements of Health and
Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.7, excluding Section 25297.1, and any requirements
of Division 31 of this Code as they pertain to underground storage tanks.
Unified Program Facility - All contiguous land and structures, other appurtenances,
and improvements on the land which are subject to the requirements listed in Subdivision
(c) of Section 25404 of the California Health and Safety Code, the requirements of
Division 8 of this Code, or the requirements of Division 31 of this Code as they relate to
underground storage tanks.
Unified Program Facility Permit - A Permit issued pursuant to the Health and Safety
Code Division 20, Chapter 6.11. For the purposes of this division, a unified program
facility Permit encompasses Permit or authorization requirements only as specified for a
unified program facility.
Uniform Fire Code Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) - Includes the
requirements of the Uniform Fire Code, as adopted by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to
Section 13143.9 of the Health and Safety Code, concerning hazardous materials
management plans and inventories for hazardous materials.
A. Filing:
All applications for Permit shall be filed with the Department, and shall be in writing
on forms provided by the Department. At the time an application for a Permit is filed, the
Department shall collect the established fees pursuant to this division. All applications
shall be reviewed for completeness and acceptability for the purposes of this division.
B. Contents of Application:
Applications for Permits required by this division shall, unless otherwise required by
the Department, contain a completed Los Angeles City Fire Department Unified Program
application packet, provided by the Department.
1. The Fire Marshal shall investigate application for a Permit, and such
investigation shall be made by authorized members of the Department.
2. The Fire Marshal may require such additional information as may be necessary to
carry out the investigation of the application for a Permit.
3. If, after investigation and consideration of any application, and any plans or
specifications required in connection therewith, the Chief shall determine that the
proposed business, operation, occupation or premises will not create any undue hazard as
a result of fire or panic, and the applicant is in compliance with all applicable unified
program elements, the Chief shall approve the application.
4. The Chief’s approval of the application may be made subject to terms and
conditions necessary for the safeguarding of life and property from the hazards of fire,
explosion or panic.
5. On approval of the application by the Chief and the payment of the required fee
the Department shall issue the Permit.
B. Power to Deny:
The Chief, in his or her discretion, is hereby empowered to deny or withhold approval
of a Permit for which an application has been made if the building, premises, equipment,
apparatus, or the facilities for the establishing, maintaining, conducting or operating the
business, operation, occupation, or premises for which the Permit is requested is or are
insufficient or are unfit or incapable of being used, maintained, established, or operated to
comply with this article or other applicable laws and the Rules and Regulations of the
Department.
Each Permit shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of this division and
shall set forth upon the face thereof the following:
B. The address where the premises are located and where the address is different
from that of the applicant, the address designated by the applicant or his or her authorized
agent for mailing purposes. The mailing address so appearing shall be the address to
which all notices required or authorized by this article shall be sent unless the applicant
or permittee shall request in writing that another address be used for such purposes.
D. The date of expiration of the Permit and the date upon which the annual Permit
fee shall be due and payable.
Each Permit issued pursuant to the provisions of this division shall be posted in a
conspicuous place on the premises for which the same is issued.
Unless otherwise set forth on the face of the Permit, every Permit issued in accordance
with the provisions of this division shall be valid until voided, revoked, or suspended.
A. Any business subject to the provisions of this division, or any division of this
Code related to the inspection, enforcement, or administration of a unified program
element, shall pay a fee at the time of application, and annually thereafter, for the
issuance of the Unified Program Facility Permit, computed pursuant to the schedule set
forth in this section, to recover the costs to the City for the inspection, enforcement, and
for the administration of those provisions by the City of Los Angeles Fire Department,
and any other charges required by law.
B. The fees adopted by the Board pursuant to this section shall be imposed upon
each Unified Program Facility which is subject to the state and local provisions referred
to hereinabove, according to the most current records of the Fire Department.
1. The Board, with the concurrence of the Director of the Office of Administrative
and Research Services (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.),
shall determine on a regular basis the verifiable costs to the City for the inspection and
enforcement activities, and the administration of the Unified Program elements,
associated with the businesses plus the applicable State service charges. The Board shall
use said costs to develop or to amend a Schedule of Fees, hereinafter referred to
as “Schedule,” so as to recover City costs in connection with the administration of this
division and any other division of this Code for inspection and enforcement activities,
and the administration of the Unified Program or any of the elements, associated with the
businesses, and to collect any State mandated fees. Said Schedule shall be no higher than
necessary to recover such costs. The Board may amend the Schedule based upon
changes in City costs at any time during the fiscal year.
2. Upon adoption of the Schedule, or any amendment thereto, the Board shall
transmit the Board order to the Mayor and the City Council for consideration. The
review and approval or disapproval of the Schedule or any amendment thereto shall be
accomplished in the same manner as the review and approval of fees by Mayor and
Council under the provisions of Los Angeles Municipal Code Section 57.04.12C,
provided, however, that approval shall require a majority vote of the City Council and
such Schedule or any amendment thereto shall not be deemed approved by the passage
of 60 days from the date of delivery to the Council without disapproval thereof, and
provided further that such Schedule or any amendment thereto shall be deemed
disapproved if disapproved in writing by the Mayor within 60 days from date of delivery
and prior to any vote of approval by the Council.
D. The failure to pay any fee as required by this division shall cause that fee to
become delinquent and an additional sum equal to 50 percent of the fee so required shall
be imposed for such delinquency and become a part of the fee required, provided
however that the Department, with the approval of the City Attorney, shall waive any or
all of said 50 percent to the extent such exceeds any extra costs caused by said
delinquency. The City Attorney may approve waiver of penalty for good cause, based
upon information supplied by the business and by the Fire Department. Good cause shall
include any adequately documented circumstance of extreme financial hardship arising
from the requirement that the 50 percent penalty be paid. Minor discrepancies in
payments, charges for duplicates of Permits, and refunds of fees paid shall be
administered for purposes of this division in the same manner as provided for Permits
under Subsections E, H, and I of Section 57.04.12 of this Code.
E. The fees charged to recover City costs in connection with the inspection and
enforcement activities, and the administration of the provisions of this division,
associated with the businesses, shall be computed as follows:
3. Hazardous Materials Release Response Plan and Inventory Program. The fees
charged to recover City costs in connection with the administration of the Hazardous
Materials Release Response and Inventory Program, and the provisions of Division 8 of
this Code, shall be computed as follows:
a. For each business handling:
b. If the total volume of each type of lubricating oil handled at a single business
facility is below 55 gallons, but the total volume of all types of lubricating oil handled at
that facility exceeds 275 gallons at any one time, each type of lubricating oil shall be
subject to disclosure and business plan requirements. For the purposes of this
paragraph, “lubricating oil” means any oil intended for the use in an internal combustion
crankcase, or the transmission, gearbox, differential, or hydraulic system of an
automobile, bus, truck, vessel, plane, heavy equipment, or other machinery powered by
an internal combustion or electric powered engine. The term “lubricating oil” does not
include used oil, as defined in Subdivision (a) of Section 25250.1 of the Health and
Safety Code of the State of California.
Section
57.15.01 Scope.
57.15.02 Definitions.
57.15.03 Fees.
This division sets forth the services the Department performs for Construction Plan
Check and Inspection and the fees for those services, including fees for expediting the
services. All operations or activities for which a building permit is required from the Los
Angeles Department of Building and Safety is subject to plan check and inspection by a
Los Angeles Fire Inspector. The goal of these fees is to prevent time delays in obtaining
permits by recovering the Department's costs in performing the inspection services.
A. Plan Check. Review and approval of construction plans for occupancies that
meet the criteria of the California Administrative Code, Title 19, including but not
limited to, hospitals, high-rise structures, institutions, educational facilities, public
assemblies, and hazardous occupancies. Plan Check also includes the final determination
and subsequent resolution of City and State Fire Code issues where interpretations are
necessary during the design and Plan Check processes.
B. Inspection and Fire Code Review. Review of plans, additional field inspection
beyond Plan Check, and any other review or inspection activities necessary for the
Department to give fire/life safety approval required by a building permit.
Before conducting a Plan Check or Inspection and Fire Code Review, the Department
shall collect the fees as set forth below:
A. Plan Check Fee. The fee shown below is for the Plan Check as defined in Sec.
57.15.02 and two (2) hours of field inspection.
B. Inspection and Fire Code Review Fee. The fee shown below is for Inspection
and Fire Code Review as defined in Sec. 57.15.02.
C. Expedite Fee. The fee shown below will allow Plan Check and/or Inspection
and Fire Code Review to occur at the earliest possible time, assuming Department
personnel are available. This fee will also be used in requests for Department personnel
to work overtime to complete a field inspection.
FEE SCHEDULE
Plan Check Fee
$121.00 minimum or .111% of the project value, whichever is higher. Project
valuation is determined by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.
Expedite Fee
$121.00 per hour, one hour minimum during office hours; $484.00 after office
hours (four hour minimum) for the first four hours and $121.00 per hour thereafter.
The Board, with the concurrence of the City Administrative Officer, shall review the
fees on an annual basis and determine the verifiable costs of the City as set forth in this
subsection.
DIVISION 20
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE
Section
57.20.31 Forges.
57.20.38 Novelties.
2. Use any tank, tank vehicle, cargo tank, tank trailer, tank car, and any device,
appliance, apparatus, or equipment used in conjunction therewith, when leaking or in
such state of disrepair as to cause a leak
No person shall throw or place, or cause to be thrown or placed, any lighted match,
cigar, cigarette, ashes, or other flaming or glowing substance or thing in any place where
it may directly or indirectly start a fire.
B. Hand-held open flame devices such as exposed candles shall not be permitted in
any Group A, E, I, or D occupancy except by authority of a Special Permit from the
Chief.
No person shall deposit hot ashes or cinders, or smouldering coals into any
combustible receptacle, or place the same within 10 feet of any combustible materials,
except in noncombustible receptacles. Such receptacles, unless resting on a
noncombustible floor or on the ground outside the building, shall be placed on
noncombustible stands, and shall be kept at least two feet laterally away from any
combustible material or structure, or any exterior window opening.
B. Spark arresters and the exhaust systems of engines or vehicles subject to this
section shall be maintained in effective working order and not be affixed or mounted in
such a manner as to allow flames or heat from the exhaust system to ignite any
flammable material
B. No person shall park or place any vehicle or other mobile equipment in such a
manner or position which would hinder or restrict the immediate and complete use, by
the Department, of any fire hydrant, fire department connection to a sprinkler system,
exterior or combination standpipe system, or any other fire protection equipment which is
installed for fire department use.
C. The Department shall have the authority to identify any fire hydrant by installing
a blue reflector on the street or access road adjacent to the hydrant. (Amended by Ord.
No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
D. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $200.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
The owner, operator, or person in charge or control of any building or premises shall
provide collision barriers adequate to protect control meters, regulators, and piping for
hazardous materials when such piping or equipment is exposed to probable vehicular
damage due to proximity to alleys, driveways, or parking areas.
A. It shall be the duty of the Chief to make a report to the Board concerning any
plans for the construction or widening of fire roads, firebreaks, and fuelbreaks.
1. Notice of the time, place, and purpose of a public hearing shall be given in the
following manner:
b. By mailing written notice not less than 10 days prior to the date of such hearing,
to the owners of all property within 300 feet of the boundaries of the proposed fire roads,
firebreaks, and fuelbreaks, or in those instances where existing fire roads, firebreaks, and
fuelbreaks are proposed to be widened within 300 feet of the new boundaries. Where all
property within the 300-foot radius is under the same ownership as the property upon
which the construction is proposed to be performed, the owners of all property adjoining
that property in the same ownership as that involved in the proposed construction, or
separated only by a street, alley, public right-of-way or other easement, shall also be
notified in the same manner.
C. The provisions of this section shall not be applicable to firebreaks authorized to
be constructed pursuant to Section 57.01.20 of this article.
No person shall install or maintain a radio or television aerial, or the guy wires thereto,
on any fire road or firebreak. Antenna wire shall be not less than 16 feet above a fire road
or firebreak.
No person, except when authorized by the Chief, or an officer or employee of the City
acting within the scope of his or her public duties, shall unlock, or tamper with, or cause
to be unlocked or tampered with in any manner, any lock, gate, door, seal, barrier, or
enclosure which is installed by or under control of the Fire Department of the City of Los
Angeles.
The use of sawdust or similar combustible material or compound for the absorption of
drippings or spills of hazardous materials from machinery or processes on any floor is
prohibited.
EXCEPTION:
A. The person owning or having charge or control of any vacant building, or vacant
portion thereof, shall remove all hazardous material and hazardous refuse which could
constitute a fire hazard or contribute to the spread of fire, and shall lock, barricade, or
otherwise secure all windows, doors, and other openings which may allow entry into the
building by unauthorized persons.
B. All fire protection systems, appliances, and assemblies in any vacant building or
vacant portion thereof shall be maintained in operating condition by the person owning or
having charge or control thereof.
C. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $300.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
A. No person shall maintain any fire protection equipment, fire assembly, fire
protective signaling system, or smoke detector in a state of disrepair, or install or
maintain any such device in a manner which creates a fire, life, or explosion hazard.
B. No person shall willfully and maliciously tamper with, damage, break, or remove
any fire protection equipment, fire assembly, fire protective signaling system, or smoke
detector.
C. No person shall willfully and maliciously send, give, transmit, or sound any false
alarm of fire by means of a fire protective signaling system or by any other means or
method.
D. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $500.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
A. For the purpose of this section only, the term “fire” shall mean a hostile fire
which is not confined to a place intended for the confinement of fire, or which has
escaped from such place of confinement.
D. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $500.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
A. No person shall possess or use any open flame or unprotected portable electric
light in any hangar, public garage, barn, tank, floating craft, or any other place where
highly flammable or explosive material is kept or where “NO SMOKING” signs are
posted. Any portable electric light used in such places shall be well secured in a glass
globe, wire mesh cage, or similar approved device, and be equipped with a non-
conductive handle.
C. The location and installation of open flame lighting and decorating fixtures for
interior or exterior of any building shall be approved by the Chief. They shall not be
installed in any area where smoking is prohibited, within five feet of any combustible
material such as drapes, curtains, hangings, decorative screens and foliage, or in any
location where the flame or heat therefrom would present a hazard to persons or property.
A. No person shall, without a Division 5 Permit of this article, burn any hazardous
refuse or other combustible material outdoors.
B. The Chief may issue a Special Permit pursuant to Division 1 of this article to
allow outdoor burning for the following purposes only:
C. Every Permit or Special Permit issued for outdoor burning shall be deemed to be
automatically suspended or cancelled when any of the following conditions exist:
a. The inversion base at 4:00 A.M. Pacific Standard Time is lower than 1,500 feet,
and
b. Such inversion will not break or the maximum mixing height will not rise above
3,500 feet, and c. The average surface wind speeds between 6:00 A.M. and Noon Pacific
Standard Time will not exceed five miles per hour.
2. Humidity and weather conditions are such that the Chief determines such burning
to be hazardous.
No exterior fireplace, barbeque device, or other fuel burning device intended for use
for cooking or entertainment shall be deemed to be restricted by the terms of Section
57.20.19 of this article. The use of such outdoor fireplaces, barbeques, and other similar
type devices for the burning or disposal of combustible waste or other unwanted
combustible material is prohibited.
C. No person shall burn, or cause to be burned, any material on any public bridge,
wharf, street, sidewalk, parkway, or on any publicly owned or controlled lot or parcel of
land which has not been specifically set aside by public authority therefor.
Every outdoor fire shall be constantly attended and controlled by a competent person
or persons until such fire is entirely extinguished.
No person shall construct, erect, install, locate, equip, maintain, or use any incinerator,
exterior fireplace or barbeque device, or burn any combustible material so as to constitute
or occasion a fire hazard by the use, or burning thereof, or as to endanger the life or
property of any person thereby.
A. Spark Arrester: Every incinerator and every fireplace or barbeque device having
a chimney shall be equipped with an approved spark arrester.
B. Pilot Controls: The secondary chamber of every gas or oil fired incinerator shall
be equipped with an automatic pilot operated control valve.
All stoves, space heaters, water heaters, ovens, furnaces, boilers, and similar heating
appliances shall be constructed, installed, maintained, and located in such a manner as not
to create a fire hazard.
A. Location: Every stove, space heater, water heater, or similar heating appliance
shall be so located, insulated, or shielded, that it will not raise the temperature of any
adjacent combustible materials, or any construction containing combustible materials,
above 160° F.
Portable type space heaters shall be installed and maintained in such a manner as to
prevent their accidentally being overturned.
Approved type semirigid or flexible metallic connectors may be used on gas fired
appliances burning not more than 130,000 BTU per hour, provided such connectors
comply with the manufacturer’s rated use and are adequately protected against
mechanical injury.
(Sec. 57.20.32 renumbered as Sec. 57.20.31 by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
No person shall maintain or use any portable forge on a combustible surface unless the
same is equipped with a protective metal shield suspended thereunder and such shield is
at least eight inches above said surface.
(Sec. 57.20.33 renumbered as Sec. 57.20.32 by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
A. Gas Heated: No person shall install, maintain, or use any gas heated glue pot
unless it is separated or insulated from any combustible material so as not to create a fire
hazard.
(Sec. 57.20.34 renumbered as Sec. 57.20.33 by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
Any person using a torch or other flame producing device for removing paint from
any building or structure shall provide two portable fire extinguishers, each having a 2-A
classification, in accordance with the provisions of Division 140 of this article, or water
hose, connected to a water supply, and of sufficient length to reach all areas on the
premises where such burning is to be done. In all cases, the person doing the burning
shall remain on the premises at least one hour after the torch or flame producing device
has been used.
B. Requirements for fire safety concerning Gas Systems for Welding and Cutting
shall be in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 50.
B. No person shall use extension cords other than with portable appliances or
fixtures.
5. Used to supply more electrical current than the cords intended rating.
D. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $150.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
No person shall manufacture, sell, offer for sale, or possess for use within the City any
toys, decorations, balloons, perpetual motion devices, ornaments, or similar objects
containing hazardous materials unless approved by the Chief.
A. No person shall use any flammable liquid in a stove, torch, or fire pot in a Fire
District.
B. No person shall use any flammable liquid in a stove, torch, or fire pot having a
fuel supply capacity in excess of one gallon.
C. The provisions of this Section shall not be deemed to apply to artisans in the
pursuit of their trade, provided a Special Permit has been issued by the Chief.
A. No person shall sell or offer for sale, or rent or offer for rent, or use, operate,
demonstrate, or discharge any flame thrower anywhere or at anytime within the
Municipality, except as approved by the Chief.
B. No person shall throw, toss, fling, project, or propel any flammable material
when ignited, with an igniter, or intended to be ignited toward or to any aiming point or
auxiliary aiming point, except by express permission of the Chief.
C. The provisions of this section shall not be deemed to apply to flame producing or
heating devices normally used by artisans in the pursuit of their trade.
B. Fire assembly doors shall be kept in a closed position and shall be equipped with
an approved, listed self-closing device.
EXCEPTION:
Fire assembly doors with automatic self-closing devices which may remain in an open
position and will close automatically when activated by an approved and listed smoke
detector.
C. Any person in charge or control of a building shall remove any block, wedge, or
other device which is known by such person to be causing a self-closing fire assembly
door to remain in an open position.
D. All fire assembly doors shall have a label or other identification showing the fire
protection rating. Labels shall be approved and shall be permanently affixed at the
factory. No person shall remove or otherwise obliterate the label or other identification
showing the fire protection rating.
E. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $150.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
DIVISION 21
HAZARDOUS REFUSE AND HAZARDOUS VEGETATION
Section
57.21.01 Scope.
57.21.03 Housekeeping.
57.21.04 Storage.
The provisions of this division shall set forth the minimum fire safety requirements for
the storage and disposal of hazardous refuse and hazardous vegetation.
D. No person owning or having control of any premises shall allow any hazardous
refuse to be present thereon which, by reason of its proximity to buildings or structures,
would constitute a fire hazard to life or property.
EXCEPTION:
D. The use of a room or suite of rooms for the storage of hazardous refuse in any
occupancy, except as provided for in Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) for the
specific purpose is prohibited.
E. The use of rubbish chutes for the storage of hazardous refuse is prohibited. Every
rubbish chute shall terminate in a rubbish room or approved noncombustible container
outside of a building of sufficient capacity to receive the entire volume of hazardous
refuse being dumped in the chute.
A. General:
a. Remove from the property all dead trees, and maintain all weeds and other
vegetation at a height of no more than three inches, except as otherwise provided therein,
if such weeds or other vegetation are within 100 feet of a building or structure located on
such property or on adjacent property. This requirement does not apply to the
maintenance of trees, ornamental shrubbery or plants which are used as ground cover
provided such do not provide a ready fuel supply to augment the spread or intensity of a
fire; nor does it apply to a native shrub provided such shrub is trimmed up from the
ground to one-third of its height, does not exceed 216 cubic feet in volume, is spaced at a
distance of not less than three times its maximum diameter but not less than 18 feet from
the edge of any other native shrub, building or structure, and all dead wood and other
combustible material within 18 feet of such shrub is removed except as provided above.
b. Maintain trees which are 18 feet or more in height and are within 100 feet of any
building or structure or within 10 feet of that portion of any highway, street, alley or
driveway which is improved or used for vehicle travel or other vehicular purposes, so that
no leafy foliage, twigs, or branches are within six feet of the ground. Trees and shrubs
less than 18 feet shall be trimmed up 1/3 their height.
c. Remove any portion of a tree which extends within 10 feet of the outlet of a
chimney or stovepipe.
d. Keep all trees, shrubs, and other growing vegetation or portions thereof adjacent
to or overhanging any building or structure free of dead limbs, branches and other
combustible matter.
e. Maintain five feet of vertical clearance between roof surfaces and portions of
trees overhanging any building or structure.
f. Maintain the roofs of all buildings or structures free of leaves, needles, twigs and
other combustible matter.
g. Maintain all weeds and other vegetation located within 10 feet of any
combustible fence or an edge of that portion of any highway, street, alley or driveway
improved or used for vehicular travel or for other vehicular purposes at a height of not
more than three inches. This shall not require the removal of trees, ornamental shrubbery
or plants which are used as ground cover, provided such do not provide a ready fuel
supply to augment the spread or intensity of a fire, nor require the removal of native
shrubs which meet the requirements set forth in a. above.
h. Clear all hazardous vegetation and other combustible growth within the first 100
feet surrounding structures as required by this Section. Reduce the amount and/or modify
the arrangement of hazardous vegetation within the area comprising the second 100 feet
for a total distance of 200 feet from any structure unless otherwise specified by the
Chief. The work required shall be set forth in the Notice of Noncompliance.
i. Maintain all landscape vegetation, including, but not limited to, conifers (e.g.,
cedar, cypress, fir, juniper, and pine), eucalyptus, acacia, palm and pampas grass in such
a condition as not to provide an available fuel supply to augment the spread or intensity
of a fire. The Notice of Noncompliance citing violations of this subsection will specify
that such landscape vegetation poses a threat to buildings or structures in the vicinity and
may cause them to be indefensible, and shall describe the work required to be done.
Nothing contained in this subsection shall be deemed to preclude the Chief from
requiring more than the minimum specific requirements set forth above when the Chief
determines that conditions exist which necessitate greater fire protection measures.
B. (Amended by Ord. No. 172,449, Eff. 3/19/99.) A fee shall be charged for the
inspection of properties in the City of Los Angeles to determine whether a violation of
this section exists. The fee shall be determined and established in the same manner as
provided for in Section 57.04.12C of this Code. Provided, however, that prior to any
inspection occurring, the owner of record of each property proposed to be inspected shall
receive a notice advising the owner of the intended inspection, the cost thereof, that
penalties will be imposed for nonpayment within the time period specified, and that the
owner will not be billed if the owner elects to follow the procedure, or any of the
procedures, described in the notice within the period of time specified in the notice. Any
procedure which the property owner may elect to follow must be determined by the Fire
Department to be one which will provide adequate assurance to the department that the
property does not contain hazardous vegetation as defined in Section 57.21.07, a copy of
which definition shall also be set forth in the notice, and which would not be unduly
burdensome upon the property owner to accomplish. In the event an inspection occurs
and the property owner is billed the cost of inspection, a penalty shall be imposed if the
fee is not paid within the period of time specified in the billing document. Such penalty
shall be two hundred percent of the fee imposed, or the cost of rebilling, whichever is
greater.
The notice shall state that the owner is required to abate the nuisance and that if the
nuisance is not abated by the date specified therein (1) the City, or its contractor, may
enter upon the parcel of land and remove or otherwise eliminate or abate the nuisance, (2)
that upon completion of such work and cost thereof, including administrative costs, shall
become a special assessment against that parcel, and (3) that upon City Council
confirmation of the assessment and recordation of that order, a lien shall attach to the
parcel to be collected on the next regular property tax bill levied against the parcel.
In the event the nuisance is not removed or otherwise eliminated or abated by the date
specified in the notice, the City, or its contractor, may enter upon the parcel and remove
or eliminate the nuisance. The City department which causes the nuisance to be abated
shall bill the owner of record for the cost of removal, or other elimination or abatement
thereof, including administrative costs. Such administrative costs shall be determined
and established in the same manner as provided for in Section 57.04.12C of this Code.
An itemized written report showing the date and cost of abatement work done by the City
or its contractor, together with a proposed assessment with respect to the parcel involved,
shall be submitted by said department to the Board of Fire Commissioners, hereinafter
sometimes referred to as the “Board”, for its consideration. (Para. Amended by Ord. No.
172,354, Eff. 1/30/99.)
The Board of Fire Commissioners shall thereupon cause a written notice to be mailed
to each owner of record. The notice shall identify the property in question and shall state
that:
3. The City proposes to assess the owner for the cost of abatement;
4. There will be a public hearing with respect to the proposed assessment and the
amount thereof at the time, date and location designated in the notice;
5. The owner may appear before a hearing examiner at the time, date and location
specified in the notice, or may request to appear at an alternate later time and/or date and
may appear at that alternate time and/or date if so designated by the hearing examiner.
Upon any such appearance the owner will be given the opportunity to present evidence to
show cause why the property should not be assessed for the cost of abatement or not be
assessed in the amount specified in the bill;
On the date specified in the notice or on any date thereafter to which continued, the
Board of Fire Commissioners, or its designee, shall act as the City’s hearing examiner
and shall conduct a hearing, consider the report setting forth the cost of abatement,
receive testimony from departmental personnel and others with respect to the existence of
a nuisance and cost of abatement, and consider the testimony and other evidence of
property owners who appear at the hearing.
After the hearing has been closed, the hearing examiner shall prepare a report and
proposed decision to be presented to the City Council based upon all of the evidence
presented at the hearing. The report shall identify and include the name and mailing
address of the owner of each parcel from which a nuisance was abated and for which a
notice of hearing and proposed assessment had been given. The hearing examiner shall
include its findings, conclusions, recommendations and proposed decision in its report to
the Council with respect to each parcel, and whether the proposed assessment should be
(l) confirmed in the amount set forth in the notice, (2) disallowed, or (3) confirmed in an
amount less than that set forth in the notice. In each event, the hearing examiner shall
include the reasons for its recommendations. The report shall fairly and accurately
represent the hearing proceedings, including the objections and other testimony of each
party who appeared at the hearing and the hearing examiner’s evaluation thereof. Upon
adoption of the report by the Board, as hearing examiner, or concurrence in the report by
the Board if the duly appointed hearing examiner was other than the Board, the report and
proposed decision with respect to contested proposed assessments as well as the Board’s
recommendations and report with respect to all other proposed assessments shall be
transmitted to the City Clerk’s office for placement upon the Council calendar not less
than 15 days after its receipt. The proposed decision in each such event shall be in such
form that it may be adopted as the decision of the City Council. If the hearing was
conducted by other than the Board, and after a review of the report the Board does not
concur with the recommendations therein, the Board may refer the matter back to the
hearing examiner for further review, and a hearing if necessary, or the Board may
conduct a hearing de novo as the hearing examiner, after due notice, and prepare its own
decision and recommendations for Council consideration.
Where there has been a contested proposed assessment, the Board, on behalf of and in
the name of the City Council, shall concurrently cause a copy of the hearing examiner’s
proposed decision in the matter to be transmitted to each property owner that appeared at
the hearing, along with a Fire Department telephone number and location where a copy
of the hearing examiner’s complete report is available for inspection. The Board shall
include in its transmittal to property owners a notice of the alternate actions available to
the City Council as set forth herein below and a notice that they may submit in writing to
the City Clerk any information of newly discovered or additional evidence within 15 days
from the transmittal date shown on the copy of the proposed decision. The City Council
shall review the report and proposed uncontested assessments transmitted by the Board
and shall also review the report, evidence, and proposed decision received from the
hearing examiner and shall by motion or resolution:
1. Adopt the findings and proposed decision and confirm the assessment; or
2. Adopt findings and reduce the assessment set forth in the proposed decision and
confirm the assessment as modified; or
3. Determine to hear and decide the case upon the record, and any newly discovered
or additional evidence offered by the property owner, afford the property owner the
opportunity to present, at a date certain, either oral or written argument before the
Council, adopt findings, and based upon evidence presented, determine and confirm the
amount of any assessment in the matter; or
4. Refer the matter back to the hearing examiner if the Council is satisfied that
information of any material newly discovered or additional evidence has been received,
or that additional evidence or review is needed before a final decision is made. If the
matter is so referred, the City Clerk shall return the complete file on that parcel and
proposed assessment to the hearing examiner. Upon receipt thereof, the hearing examiner
shall reset the matter for hearing any additional evidence, give due notice thereof, and
conduct the hearing for that purpose, and shall thereafter submit another report and
proposed decision to the City Council for its review and decision in the same manner as
heretofore described.
Whenever a report and proposed assessment decision provided for by this code section
has been calendared for Council consideration, the City Clerk shall retain a copy of the
report and have it available for public inspection prior to and during the course of
Council deliberation in the assessment proceedings.
The action of the City Council adopting a proposed decision or a modified proposed
decision and an order confirming an assessment shall be final.
Nothing contained in this subsection shall be deemed to preclude the Chief from
requiring more than the minimum distances for firebreaks when the Chief determines that
hazardous conditions exist that necessitate greater fire protection measures.
* Under uncodified Ordinance No. 172,652, eff. 7/25/99, a moratorium has been
imposed until January 1, 2000, on the collection of any penalty imposed by the City for
late payment of the fee charged pursuant to Section 57.21.07 B. of the Los Angeles
Municipal Code for inspection of properties to determine the existence of a violation of
Section 57.21.07 of the Municipal Code.
A fire on a parcel of land that is not in compliance with Section 57.21.07 is a public
nuisance. If the City incurs costs either in fighting a fire on a parcel of land that was not
in compliance with Section 57.21.07 at the time of the fire, or in fighting a fire that
spread from that parcel, then the City shall recover the costs of abatement.
The costs of abatement shall include the costs of fighting the fire, providing rescue or
emergency medical services and providing support services, including services from the
Los Angeles Police Department and the Department of Water and Power. These
abatement costs shall also include any costs incurred by the City in using City and non-
City personnel.
All costs incurred pursuant to this section shall be a personal obligation against the
person or persons, including mortgagees, who have an obligation to comply with Section
57.21.07, recoverable by the City in an action before any court of competent jurisdiction.
These costs shall include an amount equal to 40 percent of the cost to perform the actual
work, but not less than the sum of $100.00, to cover the City’s costs for administering
any contract and supervising the work required. In addition to this personal obligation
and all other remedies provided by law, the City may collect any judgment, fee, cost, or
charge, including any permit fees, fines, late charges, or interest, incurred in relation to
the provisions of this section as provided in Los Angeles Administrative Code Sections
7.35.1 through 7.35.8.
EXCEPTION: If costs are incurred by the City for or arising out of fighting a fire
resulting from an event or course of events that prompted a declaration of a state of
emergency, local emergency, war emergency or major disaster by the Mayor, the
Governor, or the President of the United States, then no lien shall be recorded against a
parcel of land pursuant to this section.
DIVISION 22
COMBUSTIBLE DECORATIONS
Section
A. No person shall install, maintain, or use for the purpose of decoration any drape,
hanging curtain, drop, vegetation, bunting, cotton batting, plastic cloth, textile, excelsior,
paper, or other combustible material that would tend to increase the fire and panic hazard
in any building or premises to which the public is admitted or invited. Decorative
materials shall be noncombustible, flame-retardant, or shall be treated and maintained in
a flame-retardant condition by means of a flame-retardant process approved by the State
Fire Marshal in accordance with Title 19, C.A.C.
B. No person shall wear or cause to be worn any wearing apparel that is composed
of vegetation, bunting, cotton batting, plastic cloth, excelsior, paper, or other combustible
material that constitutes a fire hazard.
A. No person shall sell or offer for sale any bunting, crepe paper, paper lanterns,
paper light shades, plastic cloth, or other combustible decorative materials or objects
intended to be used for decorative purposes which may occasion or constitute a fire
hazard, unless such materials have been rendered flame-retardant and are so maintained
in accordance with the provisions of Title 19, C.A.C.
B. No person shall sell, rent, lease, or give away any wearing apparel that is
composed of vegetation, bunting, cotton batting, plastic cloth, excelsior, paper, or other
combustible material which constitutes a fire hazard.
1. Christmas Trees - The base of cut natural trees shall be kept in water or wet sand.
4. Field Test for Fire Resistance – The Chief may, at any time, take samples from
any Christmas tree or decoration and field test the specimen in accordance with L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 66. The field test shall be performed in a safe location, using a common
flame applied for 12 seconds of exposure to the sample. During the exposure, flaming
shall not spread over the complete length of the sample, or in excess of four inches from
the bottom of the sample for larger sample sizes. Afterflame shall not be more than two
seconds. Materials which break and drip flaming particles shall be considered hazardous.
Christmas trees or any decorations determined by the Chief to be a fire hazard shall be
immediately removed from the building.
5. Location - Christmas trees shall be located clear of exits and aisles and in an area
separated from ordinary combustibles by a distance not less than the height of the tree.
8. Permit – A Special Permit shall be required for any storage, display, sale, or other
use of Christmas trees within buildings where more than 10 trees are located.
1. Make a fresh cut on the bottom of the tree; place in a reservoir tree stand filled
with water.
7. Turn off all Christmas lights prior to leaving your home or going to bed.
The above-referenced telephone number shall be obtained from the Fire Department.
All statements shall be on one side of the tag. In the event a language other than English
is the primary language of the majority of persons residing within one-half mile of the
location of the business, the same statements shall be printed on the reverse side of the
tag in that language. Tags shall have a minimum width of 3 inches and a minimum
length of 7 inches. The text of the tag shall be at least 12 points in size in conventional
font. Tags must be made of 30 lb. weight stock paper or equivalent. Each tag shall have
a hole at the top to receive a wire-tie, plastic tie or other material that can be used to
attach the tag securely to the tree.
B. The use of open flame devices is prohibited unless approved in writing by the
Chief. Smoke producing devices must be of the nonheating type.
C. Exhaust pipes shall be extended beyond the display area and shall be properly
protected.
Section
For purposes of this division, the term “stores” shall include the area within both retail
and wholesale stores and outlets open to the public or to selective portions of the public
for the display, sale, or offer for sale of goods, wares, and merchandise.
Where conditions exist which are found to make smoking a hazard in any area on
piers, wharves, warehouses, stores, industrial plants, institutions, schools, assembly
occupancies, or in open spaces where combustible materials are stored or handled, the
Chief shall direct the owner or occupant, in writing, to post “NO SMOKING” signs in
each building, structure, room, or place in which smoking shall be prohibited. The Chief
shall designate specific safe locations, if necessary, in any building, structure, or place in
which smoking may be permitted. Such signs shall be in contrasting color, with lettering
not less than three inches in height.
It shall be unlawful for any person to remove or destroy any such “NO SMOKING”
sign or to light, or ignite or otherwise set fire to or smoke any cigar, cigarette, pipe,
tobacco, or other form of smouldering substance, nor hold, possess, throw, or deposit any
lighted or smouldering substance in any place where such signs are posted, or in any
other place where smoking would occasion or constitute a fire or life hazard.
DIVISION 24
FUMIGATION AND THERMAL INSECTICIDAL FOGGING
Section
57.24.01 Scope.
57.24.15 Fogging.
57.24.16 Notification.
The provisions of this division shall regulate fumigations and thermal insecticidal
fogging operations and all other applicable requirements of this article.
The use of flammable fumigants is prohibited unless the user thereof can furnish
evidence, to the satisfaction of the Chief, that the use of a nonflammable substance would
be ineffective for a particular condition or operation. A request in writing describing the
commodity, type of structure, kind of pest, or other condition which reasonably requires
the use of the flammable fumigant, shall be submitted prior to the time of its use.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Evidence of necessity is not required for the use of hydrogen cyanide in grain
mills, nor with respect to its use in the fumigation of seeds.
2. The use of absorbed hydrogen cyanide does not require such evidence of
necessity provided the dosage applied does not exceed one and one-half pounds per 1,000
cubic feet.
Such distance separation is not required for the use of absorbed hydrogen cyanide in
dosages not exceeding one and one-half pounds per 1,000 cubic feet.
Whenever fumigants are used or stored, conspicuous warning signs bearing the “Skull
and Crossbones” emblem, with the words “DANGER! POISON GAS! KEEP OUT!,”
and designating the name of the fumigant, the fumigator’s name, address, and telephone
number, and any other information required by the U.S. Public Health Service or State
Pest Control Board shall be posted in such locations as to give adequate warning thereof.
Smoking, pilot lights, open flames, vaporizers, sparking devices, or other sources of
ignition are prohibited in or within 25 feet of any area undergoing fumigation with a
flammable fumigant.
EXCEPTION:
Where absorbed hydrogen cyanide is used in amounts not exceeding one and one-half
pounds per 1,000 cubic feet and an open space of at least 10 feet exists between the
building, ship, or other structure under fumigation and an adjacent building, ship, or other
structure, the above regulations shall not apply.
EXCEPTION:
Evacuation pursuant to this section is not necessary (except where hydrogen cyanide
is used) in industrial buildings or miscellaneous structures in which tarpaulin fumigation
is being conducted, provided the volume of material or space under fumigation does not
exceed eight percent of the volume of the building, structure or portion thereof in which
the fumigation is being carried on.
NOTE:
Where approved division walls are found in a building, each section separated by the
division shall constitute a separate building.
Any vault or chamber which is used for fumigation purposes shall, in addition to
meeting the requirements set forth below, be approved in design and location and shall be
equipped with a means for mechanically exhausting the fumigant through a duct
extending not less than 15 feet from any opening into other use or occupancy unless
located at least eight feet above such openings.
A. All piping for flammable or noxious gases which is closed by valves at each end
during the fumigation process shall be equipped with an approved pressure-relieving
device, designed to vent such gases into the fumigation chamber exhaust duct.
A. Other applicable laws relating to reports, permits, signs, etc., shall be complied
with.
C. Piles of material to be fumigated in buildings shall not exceed 4,000 cubic feet in
volume, and shall not be more than 10 feet in height, or shall be at least two feet below
the ceiling, whichever is the more restrictive. Piles shall be separated at least three feet
from other piles under fumigation or from other combustible storage.
D. Fumigation in the open shall be located at least 15 feet from any institutional or
assembly occupancy; at least 10 feet from any residential occupancy; and at such a
distance from any other occupancy, building, ship, or other structure as to protect the
public and property from injury.
In addition to other requirements of this Article, the fumigator shall comply with the
following provisions whenever liquid hydrogen cyanide is used in excess of one and one-
half pounds per 1,000 cubic feet of gross structural space, or any other flammable gas or
liquid is used in quantities sufficient to create a hazardous atmosphere in the area
involved.
A. Every supply line through which natural gas, liquefied flammable gas, or other
fuel flows or could flow into the structure to be fumigated shall be disconnected and
capped. Thereafter, the interior fuel piping shall be tested to insure that no pressure exists
therein.
B. All telephone lines entering the building, ship, or area to be fumigated shall be
disconnected outside.
C. All radios, television sets, or similar devices shall be removed from the areas to
be fumigated.
Units of absorbed hydrogen cyanide shall be evenly distributed throughout the area as
is practicable in order to avoid accumulation of gas in any one location in concentrations
in excess of 50 percent of its lower flammable limit.
The rate of discharge of a fumigant into a building, ship, or any subdivision thereof
shall not exceed that flow which will create a gas-air mixture equal to 50 percent of its
lower flammable limit in the smallest subdivision into which it is being introduced.
Application of the fumigant under the first floor of a structure, whether through a spray
nozzle or through vaporizing equipment shall be intermittent so that the flow will not
permit formation of gas-air mixture within its flammable range, except in the area
immediately surrounding the point of application.
Irrespective of the type of fumigant employed, the use of paper or similar combustible
materials to wrap a ship, building, or other structure in excess of that required for sealing
cracks, vents, etc., is prohibited unless said ship, building, or other structure is located at
least 50 feet from the nearest type V Building (excluding a garage or other miscellaneous
structure on the same premises) or unprotected opening in any other type of building.
At least 24 hours prior to conducting any fumigation, written notice shall be given to
the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety, Engineering Unit, of the date, place, and
name of fumigator, extent or duration of fumigation, name of fumigant, and sealing
method used, except that notification is not required where fumigation is to be done in
approved chambers, nor in the case of tarpaulin fumigation of structures or trees.
DIVISION 25
MOUNTAIN FIRE DISTRICTS
Section
57.25.03 Authority to Construct, Maintain and Close Fire Roads, Fire Trails and
Firebreaks.
A. Mountain Fire Districts and Fire Buffer Zones are hereby established and
declared to be those districts and areas included within the boundary described and set
forth in the map attached to Ordinance No. 141,685 which is incorporated herein and
made a part hereof for all purposes.
There shall be no open burning or smoking in Mountain Fire Districts. The Chief shall
cause such districts to be posted at all times by suitable signs giving notice thereof.
A. The Chief shall have authority to construct fire roads and firebreaks in or upon
any undeveloped lands in any mountain or hill area, whether or not such lands are public
or private, with the consent of the owner thereof, and to maintain the same on a
permanent basis when the Chief determines that such fire roads and firebreak are
necessary for the protection of life and property against fire or panic.
B. The Chief may install gates or cables, and securely lock the same, to prevent the
use by unauthorized persons of any fire road, truck trail or other road which is not a
public highway and over which the Fire Department has the right to pass, whether by
easement, license, City ownership or otherwise, for purposes relating to fire protection or
control.
All lands within the limits of the City of Los Angeles and lying within the boundaries
of any State or Federal Forest lands, whether public or private, may be closed to the
public by the Chief or by any authorized State or Federal officer, provided such closure is
not in conflict with any State or Federal law. No person shall enter upon any lands so
closed except by valid Special Permit issued by the Chief. Such land shall be properly
posted by either the United States Forest Service or the Department.
EXCEPTION:
Closure of private lands shall not prohibit the use or entry upon such lands by the
owner, his guests or invitees, provided such guests or invitees have written permission of
the owner of such private lands to enter upon the same.
No person shall throw or place, or cause to be thrown or placed, any lighted match,
cigar, cigarette, ashes, or other flaming or glowing substances, or thing in any place
where it may directly or indirectly start a fire.
It shall be unlawful for any person to light, ignite or smoke any cigar, cigarette,
tobacco in a pipe or other form of smouldering substance within a Mountain Fire District.
A. Cut, trim, or otherwise remove all forked, dead, decadent, rotten, diseased, or
weakened branches of trees, or trees that may contact or fall upon any transmission line.
B. Cut, trim or prune any trees or shrubs that, by their growing location may expose
electrical transmission or branch lines to unsafe shorting or grounding.
A. No person, other than those expressly exempted, shall enter into or be upon any
Mountain Fire District except upon public roadways, inhabited areas or established trails
and campsites which are open to the public, when said District has been posted pursuant
to Section 57.25.02 of this article.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. This subsection shall not prohibit residents or owners of private property or their
invitees or guests from going to or from such private property, provided that such invitees
or guests have the permission of the owner or resident to be in or upon such private
property.
2. This subsection shall not restrict any public officer in the pursuit of his duty.
B. No person shall enter into, upon or across any “posted” property without the
permission of the owner. “Posted property” shall mean any property in a Mountain Fire
District which is marked with a substantial sign at the entrance, at each corner and at
intervals of 600 feet along the boundary thereof, bearing the words “TRESPASSING
AND LOITERING FORBIDDEN BY LAW” in letters not less than three inches in
height.
A. No person, except one authorized and acting within the scope of his official
duties, shall unlock, open, damage, or tamper with or cause to be unlocked, opened,
damaged, or tampered with any lock, gate, door, barrier, seal, water tank enclosure, water
valve, hydrant, or other fire protection equipment or facility installed by or under control
of the Department or the Federal Division of Forestry.
B. No person, except one authorized and acting within the scope of his official
duties, shall remove, deface, mar, mutilate, or change the position of any sign, installed
by the Chief pursuant to this article, designating “CLOSED AREA,” “NO
SMOKING,” “NO OPEN FIRES,” “RESTRICTED ENTRY,” or other sign or device
installed to give warning and to regulate persons actions within the Mountain Fire
Districts.
DIVISION 30
STORAGE, HANDLING, AND USE OF FLAMMABLE AND
COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN CONTAINERS, PORTABLE TANKS
AND PORTABLE SHIPPING TANKS
Section
57.30.01 Scope.
57.30.03 Portable Tanks, Portable Shipping Tanks and Containers; Construction and
Use.
57.30.04 Labels.
57.30.19 Aerosols.
57.30.40 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids in Group H-1, H-2, and H-3
Occupancies.
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the storage,
handling, and use of flammable and combustible liquids in containers, portable tanks and
portable shipping tanks, and the requirements regulating containers, labels, permits, fire
protection, and general precautions and measures relative to flammable and combustible
liquids.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
EXCEPTIONS:
4. Liquids without flash points that can be flammable under some conditions such
as certain halogenated hydrocarbons and mixtures containing halogenated hydrocarbons.
A. The design and construction of portable tanks, portable shipping tanks, and
containers for flammable and combustible liquids used or intended to be used for storage,
sales, or shipping shall be as set forth in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26. Portable tanks,
portable shipping tanks and containers that are listed shall be acceptable to the Chief.
Polyethylene containers meeting the requirements of and containing products authorized
by D.O.T. Specification 34, and polyethylene drums authorized by D.O.T. Exemption
Procedures shall be acceptable. Plastic containers meeting the requirements of
ANSI/ASTM D3435-80 and plastic containers (jerry cans) used for petroleum products
within the scope of that specification, shall be acceptable.
B. The maximum capacity of portable tanks, portable shipping tanks and containers
shall conform to Table 30-A of this section.
TABLE 30-A
Glass
0
1 qt.
1 gal.
1 gal.
5 gal.
Safety Cans
2 gal.
5 gal.
5 gal.
5 gal.
5 gal.
Metal Drum
60 gal.
60 gal.
60 gal.
60 gal.
60 gal.
Polyethylene
1 gal.
5 gal.
5 gal.
60 gal.
60 gal.
Portable Tank
660 gal.
660 gal.
660 gal.
660 gal.
660 gal.
NOTES:
1. Class I or II liquids may be stored in glass containers of not more than one gallon
capacity if the required liquid purity (such as American Chemical Society Analytical
Reagent Grade or higher) would be affected by storage in metal containers or if the liquid
would cause excessive corrosion of the metal container.
2. Upon the presentation of satisfactory proof that metal would affect the chemical
purity of a flammable or combustible liquid, the Chief may approve other containers for
the particular liquid.
A. All portable tanks and containers of flammable liquids at the point of final filling
or labeling, and except as indicated in Subsection B of this section, shall be
conspicuously labeled in easily legible type which is in contrast by typography, layout, or
color with other printed matter on the label. Such type shall be of a size not smaller than
any other printing on the label except the brand name.
1. When the portable tank or container bears labels or markings in accordance with
the requirements of the D.O.T.
2. When the portable tank or container bears labels or markings in accordance with
the requirements of the Federal Hazardous Substance Labeling Act as contained in Part
1500, Subchapter C, Chapter II, Title 16, of the Code of Federal Regulations.
3. When the portable tank or container bears labels or markings in accordance with
the requirements of the applicable provisions of the California Hazardous Substance
Labeling Act as contained in Chapter 13, Division 22, of the California Health and Safety
Code.
4. Nonpressurized containers smaller than four ounces capacity may not require
labeling.
A valid Permit from the Department is required in accordance with Division 4 of this
article when the quantities prescribed in Table 30-B are exceeded in any occupancy or on
any premises.
TABLE 30-B
Flammable Liquids
Class IA
60 gal.
Class IB
120 gal.
Class IC
180 gal.
Combination of flammable liquids with not more than the exempt amounts of Class
IA, IB, or IC liquids set forth above
240 gal.
Combustible Liquids
Class II
240 gal.
Class III
500 gal.
A. Other provisions of this article notwithstanding, this section shall apply to the
flammable and combustible liquid packaging and merchandising restrictions necessary in
effecting minimum fire safety controls in dwelling units. The packaging of flammable
and combustible liquids and offering them for sale to or by retail merchandising outlets
shall be deemed prima facie evidence that such liquids are intended for use by the
consumer in dwelling units and not specifically by the artisan in commercial or industrial
occupancies.
2. Class IB or IC Liquids — The packaging for sale for use and storage in dwelling
units shall be in approved containers not exceeding a maximum capacity of five gallons.
3. Dry Cleaning Fluids — The packaging, selling, or offering for sale of any Class
IB or IC liquid which is labeled as a “Dry Cleaning Fluid” or “Spotter” or similar
wording and which is intended for home dry cleaning or similar non-commercial or non-
industrial purposes, except in approved containers not exceeding one pint capacity, is
prohibited.
EXCEPTION:
The above restrictions shall not apply to locations conforming to Group H-1 and H-2
Occupancy requirements.
A. Safety cans shall be used for the handling or temporary storage of Class I or II
liquids in any operating or processing area, unless otherwise approved by the
Department.
A. Smoking, open flames, or other sources of ignition shall not be located in any
Hazardous Materials Room nor within 25 feet of any Class I or II liquids storage area.
Heating shall be by approved methods.
1. Not more than 60 gallons in combination of Class I and II liquids shall be stored
in Hazardous Material Cabinets.
The storage of quantities in excess of the above amounts or amounts stated in Section
57.30.30 shall be in an approved Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 Occupancy, or Hazardous
Materials Room.
Empty containers located inside of buildings and which at any time contained Class I
or II liquids shall be regulated the same as full or partially full containers, unless all
vapors have been removed in a satisfactory manner.
Where flammable and combustible liquids are stored, aisles shall be provided of
sufficient width and at such intervals as to permit ready access for inspection and removal
of leaking containers, and in every case shall meet the following minimum requirements:
A. Aisles required for means of egress shall be not less than four feet wide.
B. Wall aisles at least three feet wide shall be provided and where necessary for
reasons of access through doors, windows, access to interior standpipe hose or exterior
standpipe connections for fire fighting purposes.
EXCEPTION:
In a Hazardous Materials Room only one aisle, three feet in width is required.
EXCEPTION:
The provisions of this section shall apply to the storage of flammable or combustible
liquids in closed containers within a building, provided that the storage containers are not
opened within the building and there is no transfer of flammable or combustible liquids
from one container to another. The provisions of this section shall not apply to Group H-
1, H-2 or H-3 Occupancies.
D. When containers are constructed of nonmetalic materials, not more than one
shipping case of each brand and size shall be open at any one time.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the storage of flammable and/or
combustible liquids in closed containers within a Hazardous Materials Room, provided
that the storage containers are not opened within the building or room and there is no
transfer of flammable or combustible liquids from one container to another.
B. Drums shall only be stored in an upright position and limited to two drums high.
C. Not more than 2200 gallons of flammable and/or combustible liquids shall be
stored in any Hazardous Materials Room not having an approved automatic fire
extinguishing system.
D. Not more than 4400 gallons of flammable and/or combustible liquids shall be
stored in any Hazardous Materials Room equipped with an approved automatic fire
extinguishing system.
A. Maximum Quantity — The sales area in wholesale or retail stores for computing
the maximum quantity permitted shall be considered as that portion of the floor actually
being used for the disposal of flammable and/or combustible liquids and the aisle in front
of the display. Quantities of flammable and/or combustible liquids in the sales areas shall
not exceed the following:
1. Flammable and/or combustible liquids shall not exceed two gallons per square
foot of sales area and shall be in closed containers of five gallons capacity or less.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. Class IA liquids shall not exceed one gallon per square foot of sales area.
3. Class IB, IC or II liquids on other than the ground floor shall be limited to one
gallon per square foot of sales area. If the occupancy is protected by an approved
automatic sprinkler system, Class IB, IC, or II liquids may be increased to two gallons
per square foot.
d. Combinations of Class I and II liquids with not more than the amounts of each
class of liquid as set forth above shall not exceed 240 gallons.
3. The maximum quantities stated in Section 57.30.25, A.2. may be doubled for
areas protected with an automatic sprinkler system.
B. Display Restrictions.
1. Class I or II liquid containers in display areas shall not be stacked more than
three feet high unless on fixed shelving or otherwise approved by the Chief.
2. Shelving shall be of stable construction, of sufficient depth, all arranged such that
containers displayed thereon shall not be easily displaced in event of earthquake or
accidental impact.
5. Combinations of Class I and II liquids with not more than the amounts of each
class of liquid as set forth above shall not exceed 240 gallons.
B. Quantities of liquids in excess of those set forth in sales areas and Subsection A
above shall be stored in a Hazardous Materials Room or in a Group H3 Occupancy
constructed in accordance with the requirements of Chapter s of the L.A.M.C. (Building
Code).
C. Dispensing from drums in areas set aside from the public sales area shall comply
with the provisions of Section 57.30.30 of this article.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the storage of flammable and/or
combustible liquids in closed containers, safety cans, or metal drums within a building,
but outside of a Hazardous Materials Room or cabinet, and to containers which are
opened within the building, or when there is a transfer of flammable or combustible
liquids from one container to another.
1. In the event Class I, II, or III liquids are stored in 60 gallons metal drums, not
more than two 60-gallon metal drums or containers of Class I or II liquids nor more than
four 60-gallon metal drums or containers of Class III liquids may be outside of any
Hazardous Materials Room, provided that the provisions of this subsection are complied
with.
a. A Special Permit shall be obtained from the Chief for metal drums or containers
containing Class I, II, or III liquids.
d. Each metal drum from which there is dispensing shall be equipped with an
approved pressure-vacuum relief device. The applied pressure-vacuum relief device may
be a part of the withdraw pump or may be a separate device.
2. Not more than 10 gallons of Class I and Class II liquids in combination shall be
in closed containers outside of a Hazardous Materials Room or Cabinet.
3. Not more than 25 gallons of Class I and Class II liquids in combination shall be
in safety cans outside of a Hazardous Materials Room or Cabinet.
4. Not more than 60 gallons of Class IIIA liquids in closed containers or safety cans
shall be outside of a Hazardous Materials Room or Cabinet, except as specified in
Subsection A.l. of this section for metal drums.
5. The total amounts of Class I, II, and IIIA liquids in Subsections 2, 3 and 4 of this
section are not cumulative. The combination of Class I, II, and IIIA liquids shall not
exceed 60 gallons outside a Hazardous Materials Room or Cabinet.
6. Not more than 120 gallons of Class IIIB liquids in closed containers or safety
cans shall be outside of a Hazardous Materials Room or Cabinet, except as specified in
Subsection A.1. of this section for metal drums.
TABLE 30-C
of
Liquid
Protected Storage1
Unprotected Storage
Max. Gals.
Pile
Max. Height Pile
Max. Width Pile
Max. Quantity3
(Gals.)
Max.
Gals.
Pile
Max. Height Pile
Max. Width Pile
Max. Quantity (Gals.)
IA
3,0002
5 ft.
4 ft.
12,0002
660
5 ft.
4 ft.
660
IB
5,0002
6 ft.
8 ft.
15,0002
1,375
5 ft.
4 ft.
1375
IC
5,0002
6 ft.
12 ft.
15,0002
2,750
5 ft.
8 ft.
2,750
II
10,000
9 ft.
12 ft.
20,000
4,125
10 ft.
8 ft.
8,250
IIIA
15,000
15 ft.
16 ft.
50,000
13,750
15 ft.
16 ft.
27,500
IIIB
15,000
15 ft.
16 ft.
100,000
13,750
15 ft.
16 ft.
55,000
NOTES:
2. The maximum storage for Class I liquids on floors above the first floor shall be
reduced by one-third of the maximum quantity for that class of liquid.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the storage of flammable or combustible
liquids in closed containers within a Hazardous Materials Room and when containers are
opened within the room there is a transfer of flammable and combustible liquids from one
container to another within the room.
B. Drums not in use shall be stored in an upright position. Drums shall not be
stacked more than one drum high.
C. Dispensing from metal drums shall be by means of a device draining from the
top of the drum or by means of a listed self-closing disposing device with metal drum on
its side.
D. Each drum from which there is dispensing shall be equipped with an approved
pressure-vacuum relief device. The approved pressure-vacuum relief device may be a
part of the withdrawal pump or device, or it may be a separate device.
E. Not more than two gallons of flammable and/or combustible liquids per square
foot of floor area shall be stored in any Hazardous Materials Room not equipped with an
approved automatic fire extinguishing system.
F. Not more than four gallons of flammable and/or combustible liquids per square
foot of floor area shall be stored in any Hazardous Materials Room equipped with an
approved automatic fire extinguishing system.
The provisions of this section shall apply to the storage of flammable or combustible
liquids in Group H-1, H-2, and H-3 Occupancies.
C. The maximum capacity, height, and width of every pile shall conform to the
requirements of Table 30-C in addition to the minimum requirements set forth in this
subsection.
1. Every pile shall be kept at least three feet below the lowest beam, chord, girder,
or other obstructions, sprinkler deflectors, or discharge orifices of water spray, or other
fire extinguishing systems.
2. Every pile shall be separated from every other pile by side aisles at least four feet
wide.
3. Wall aisles at least three feet wide shall be provided where necessary, for reasons
of access through doors, windows, access to interior standpipe hose, sprinkler control
valves, or other installed fire protection equipment.
4. When two or more classes of flammable and/or combustible liquids are stored in
a single pile, the maximum quantity and height permitted in that pile shall be limited to
the most hazardous class.
5. Every H-1, H-2, or H-3 Occupancy used to store flammable and/or combustible
liquids shall have main aisles a minimum of eight feet in width which serve all required
exits from the building. Main aisles shall be within 50 feet of all storage of flammable
and/or combustible liquids.
B. Class II and III liquids may be stored in a basement only with a Special Permit
issued by the Chief. A Special Permit allowing basement storage of Class II and III
liquids is subject to the following conditions:
4. Other than the maximum quantity limitations stated in this subsection, the storage
of Class II and III liquids in basements shall be in accordance with the provisions of
Section 57.30.30.
TABLE 30-D
(Gallons)
(See Note 1)
Height
(ft.)
Distance Between Piles
(See Note 2)
Distance to Property Line That Can Be Built Upon
(See Note 4)
IA
1,100
10
5 ft.
50 ft.
10 ft.
IB
2,200
12
5 ft.
50 ft.
10 ft.
IC
4,400
12
5 ft.
50 ft.
10 ft.
II
8,800
12
5 ft.
25 ft.
5 ft.
III
22,000
15
5 ft.
10 ft.
5 ft.
NOTES:
2. A 20-foot access road shall be provided within 150 feet of each container to
permit approach of Fire Department apparatus.
4. When the total quantity stored does not exceed 50 percent of the maximum pile,
the distances in column five and six may be reduced 50 percent, but never any distance
be reduced to less than five feet.
5. When total quantity stored does not exceed 50 percent of the maximum per pile,
the distance to property line may be reduced to a minimum of 10 feet in column five
provided a barrier wall is installed which is at least six feet high, six inches thick,
constructed of solid reinforced concrete or masonry.
A. A maximum of 1,100 gallons of flammable and/or combustible liquids in closed
containers may be located adjacent to buildings located on the same premises and under
the same management, provided that:
C. The storage area shall be graded in a manner to divert possible spills away from
buildings or other exposures or shall be surrounded by a curb at least six inches high.
Where curbs are used, provisions shall be made for draining accumulations of ground or
rain water or spills of flammable or combustible liquids. Drains shall terminate at a safe
location and shall be accessible to operation under fire conditions.
D. The storage area shall be protected against tampering and trespassing where
necessary to afford proper security. The area shall be maintained free of weeds, debris,
and other combustible material not necessary to the storage.
A. Transfer of materials from one container to another shall meet the following
minimum conditions:
2. Transfer operations shall be conducted near the storage area, but separated at
least 15 feet from any pile of drums or other containers.
4. Smoking, open flame, or other sources of ignition shall not be permitted within
25 feet. Electrical devices shall be installed as required by the Building Code.
5. Sufficient grounding and/or bonding shall be provided to prevent the
accumulation of static electricity.
A. No person shall construct, sell, operate, use, or maintain any portable tank unless
a General Approval for the type, design, and construction has been granted by the
Department in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standards No. 12, 14, 16, 17, 18 or the tank is
constructed in accordance with nationally recognized standards as required by Division 5
of this article.
B. Each portable tank shall be provided with one or more devices installed in the
top with sufficient emergency venting capacity to limit internal pressure under fire
exposure conditions to 10 PSIG or 30 percent of the bursting pressure of the tank,
whichever is greater. At least one pressure-actuated vent having a minimum capacity of
6,000 cubic feet of free air per hour (at 14.7 PSIA and 60°F.) shall be used. It shall be set
to open at not less than 5 PSIG. If fusible vents are used, they shall be actuated by
elements that operate at a temperature not exceeding 300°F. When used for paints, drying
oils, and similar materials, where plugging of the pressure-actuated vent can occur,
fusible vents or vents of the type that soften to failure at a maximum of 300° under fire
exposure may be used for the entire emergency venting requirement.
C. All pipe connections, valves, and fittings shall be installed in accordance with
Division 39 of this article.
A. In factories and workshops, other than Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 Occupancies, not
more than one portable tank (not exceeding 660 gallons) containing a Class IB, IC, Class
II, or Class IIIA liquid may be stored outside of a Hazardous Materials Room or used for
dispensing, provided that:
1. A Special Permit shall be obtained from the Department for the location and use
of the one portable tank.
3. The portable tank from which there is dispensing shall be equipped with an
approved pressure-vacuum relief device in accordance with Section 57.30.55.
B. Not more than three portable tanks not exceeding 660 gallons each of Class IIIB
liquids may be used for dispensing outside of a Hazardous Materials Room.
Portable tanks storing flammable and/or combustible liquids may be stored indoors in
the quantities and arrangements specified in Table 30-E, provided the storage is in a
liquid storage warehouse and protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.
TABLE 30-E
Height (Ft.)
Maximum Gallon Quantity
Per Pile
Maximum Gallons Quantity
IA
– – – – – – – – – Not Permitted – – – – – – – – –
IB
7 ft.
20,000
40,000
IC
7 ft.
20,000
40,000
II
14 ft.
40,000
80,000
III
14 ft.
60,000
100,000
NOTE: The maximum storage for Class IB and IC liquids on upper floors shall be
reduced by 50 percent of the maximum quantity for that class.
Class I and II liquids hall be kept in covered containers when not actually in use, being
processed, or compounded, or shall be stored in permanent storage tanks.
Where flammable or combustible liquids are used or handled, means shall be provided
to safely control and dispose of leaks or spills.
Portable tanks or containers for Class I, II, or III liquids which are employed in
heating, mixing, and other processing shall be equipped with temperature and fluid
regulators to assure prompt control in the event of fire overflow or rupture.
A. All employees engaged in the operation shall be advised of hazards they may
encounter.
C. If work involving the use of flame, arc, spark, or other source ignition is to be
done, the vessel shall be maintained free of flammable mixtures while such work is being
performed.
D. Fire extinguishing equipment adequate to cope with the hazards, which may be
encountered shall be provided and maintained in the immediate area.
Manufacturing, processing, or any other use of Class I, II, or IIIA liquids shall not be
carried on in the same room or area where Class I, II, or IIIA liquids are stored.
A. Any Class III liquid heated to within 50°F. but not higher than its flash point
shall be regulated as a Class II liquid.
B. Class IC, II, and III liquids heated to a temperature higher than their flash point
and having a boiling point at or above 100°F. at the temperature to which it is heated
shall be regulated as a Class IB liquid.
1. At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20B shall
be located outside of, but not more than 10 feet from a door opening into any Hazardous
Materials Room.
2. At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20B shall
be located not less than 10 feet nor more than 50 feet from any Class I or Class II liquid
storage area outside of a Hazardous Materials Room.
3. Adjacent to and within 50 feet of where Class I or Class II liquids are displayed
for retail sale there shall be located an approved portable fire extinguisher having a rating
of not less than 20B.
Section
General Provisions
57.31.01 Scope.
57.31.02 Definitions.
Aboveground Tanks
57.31.21 Insulation.
Underground Tanks
57.31.30 Scope.
57.31.31 Definitions.
57.31.54 Reinstallation.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate all
atmospheric tanks which are incorporated as an integral part of a transfer or process
system used for handling or storing hazardous substances. Such provisions provide
necessary safeguards to carry out the purpose and intent of this division. Whenever the
term “tank” is used in this division, it shall mean “atmospheric tank”. If a conflict arises
between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division, the more restrictive
shall apply.
EXCEPTION:
The provisions of these sections shall not include structures such as clarifiers, sumps,
separators, storm drains, catch basins, lagoons, evaporation ponds, well cellars,
separation sumps, lined or unlined pits, or final interceptors in industrial waste
pretreatment systems.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be defined as
follows:
Aboveground Tank – Any atmospheric tank installed on or above the surface of the
ground and used for the storage, handling, or processing of a hazardous substance.
Hazardous Substance – All of the following liquid, solid, and gaseous substances,
unless the State Department of Health Services in consultation with the State Water
Resources Control Board, determines the substance could not adversely affect the quality
of Waters of the State:
A. No person shall erect, install, relocate, add to, alter, or abandon any tank unless a
valid Permit as required by Division 5 of this article has been issued.
B. No person shall use or operate any atmospheric aboveground tank unless a valid
Permit as required by Division 4 of this article has been issued.
C. No person shall use or operate any underground storage tank unless a valid
Unified Program Facility Permit with the appropriate authorization as required by
Division 14 of this article has been issued.
SEC. 57.31.04. PROTECTION FOR TANKS.
Every owner or operator having charge of any atmospheric tank which has an opening
exceeding six inches in any lateral dimension or which has a depth in excess of three feet,
shall secure the tank from unauthorized entry. Provisions shall be made to secure
unauthorized discharge from any atmospheric tank by locking valves in a closed position
or by providing and maintaining equivalent protection as approved by the Chief.
A. Tanks requiring application of heat may be heated by hot water, low pressure
steam coils within the tank, electrical heating units installed on the shell of the tank, or
other method approved by the Chief.
Any atmospheric storage tank which is temporarily out of service shall be monitored,
inspected, and maintained in the same manner as if it were in service.
The written report shall provide information to the Department relating to the ability
of the permittee to contain and dispose of the hazardous substance, the estimated time it
will take to achieve this, and the degree of hazard created. The Chief may verify that the
hazardous substance is being contained and appropriately disposed of. If at any time it is
determined that the permittee is not adequately containing and disposing of such
hazardous substance, the Chief shall have the power and authority to initiate and direct an
emergency response in order to protect the public safety, health and welfare, public and
private property, wildlife, marine fisheries, wet lands or ocean resources, or natural
environment. The permittee shall be liable for reimbursement to the Department for all
emergency response costs incurred.
ABOVEGROUND TANKS
The foundation and supports for aboveground tanks shall comply with the provisions
of this section. This section is not intended to prohibit the use of concrete, sand, or gravel
pads of standard construction upon which large storage tanks are normally placed.
A. Tanks which are located outside of buildings shall rest directly on the ground or
on foundations or supports of non-combustible materials. Tanks shall meet seismic
design requirements and compaction of the soil for footings and/or foundations in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
B. Structural members providing support for any tank having a capacity exceeding
600 gallons of hazardous materials outside of any building shall have at least one-hour
fire resistive protection or be protected with an automatic sprinkler system constructed in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code or Plumbing Code).
C. Structural members providing support for any tank which is within a building
and has a capacity of more than 120 gallons of hazardous materials shall be provided
with structural supports which have at least two-hour fire resistive protection in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code), or be protected with an
automatic sprinkler system constructed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Plumbing Code).
A. Vertical cone roof tanks constructed with a weak roof-to-shell seam shall be
separated from buildings and property lines which are or can be built upon, including the
opposite side of a public way, by a distance equal to the tank diameter, except that such
distance shall not be less than 10 feet. Distance from streets, alleys, or public ways shall
be equal to one-third of the tank diameter, except that such distance shall not be less than
five feet.
B. Floating roof tanks and tanks for the storage of Class I, II, or IIIA liquids shall be
separated from buildings and property lines which are or can be built upon, including the
opposite side of a public way, by a distance equal to one-half the tank diameter, except
that such distance shall not be less than five feet. Distance from streets, alleys, or public
ways shall be equal to one-sixth of the tank diameters, except that such distance shall not
be less than five feet.
D. The distances set forth in Subsections A and C of this section may be reduced 50
percent but not less than five feet whenever all of the tanks within any one diked area or
drainage area are used exclusively for the storage of Class IIIB liquids.
E. The distances set forth in all subsections of this section shall be doubled for tanks
storing flammable or combustible liquids having boilover characteristics.
F. The Chief may require additional spacing for tanks storing Class I, II, or IIIA
liquids stored at temperatures exceeding 212°F.
G. Every aboveground tank for the storage of unstable liquids shall be located as
required by the Chief, but such distances shall not be less than 25 feet from the property
line of any property which has a building thereon, from the nearest side of any public
way or from the nearest side of any building.
H. When tanks are installed in three or more rows, in irregular pattern, or of unusual
heights in proportion to the diameter of the tank, greater spacing or other protection shall
be provided so that all tanks are accessible for fire fighting purposes.
TABLE 31-A
SEPARATION FOR TANKS OUTSIDE OF BUILDINGS
Capacity of Tank in Gallons
Minimum Distance From Property Lines Which May Be Built Upon, Including
the Opposite Side of a Public Way, in feet
Minimum Distance From the Nearest Side of Any Public Way (Street, Alley, etc.)
or Nearest Building, in feet
275 or Less
5
5
276 to 750
10
5
751 to 12,000
15
5
12,001 to 30,000
20
5
30,001 to 50,000
30
10
50,001 to 100,000
50
15
100,001 to 500,000
80
25
500,001 to 1,000,000
100
35
1,000,001 to 2,000,000
135
45
2,000,001 to 3,000,000
165
55
A. When the diameter of one tank is less than one-half the diameter of any other
tank, the shell-to-shell distance between the two tanks shall not be less than one-half the
diameter of the smaller tank, except that such distance shall not be less than three feet.
B. The shell-to-shell distance between any two tanks shall not be less than one-sixth
of the sum of the diameters of the two tanks, except that such distance shall not be less
than three feet.
C. For unstable liquids, the distance between any two tanks shall not be less than
one-half the sum of their diameters.
B. The impounding area shall have a capacity not less than that of the largest tank
that can drain into it.
C. The drainage system shall not discharge to adjoining property, public waterways,
public sewers, or into adjoining common diked areas.
F. The drainage system or channels shall not interfere with Fire Department Access.
The drainage system may be required to be covered by an approved noncombustible grate
or other approved protection.
G. Drainage system control valves shall normally be in the closed position and
located outside the diked area.
Where control of accidental discharge is by means of a diked area, such diked area
shall comply with the provisions of this section.
1. The volume of the largest tank up to the required height of the dike wall may be
considered as part of the available capacity of the diked area.
2. No part of the volume of tanks other than the largest tank shall be considered as
part of the available capacity of the diked area.
B. Walls of the diked area shall be of earth, steel, concrete, or solid masonry, and
shall be designed to be liquid-tight and to withstand a full hydrostatic head. Earthen
walls three feet or more in height shall have a flat section at the top not less than two feet
wide. Earthen walls shall have a minimum slope of one and one-half feet horizontal to
one foot vertical and shall be well compacted and coated with concrete, asphalt, or other
material approved by the Chief. (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
C. The walls of the diked area shall be restricted to an average height of six feet
above interior grade. The minimum distance between the inside toe of any dike wall and
the shell of any tank shall be not less than five feet. Concrete footing for steel, concrete,
or solid masonry walls may project into this area, provided the top of the footing does not
project above interior grade.
E. Each diked area containing two or more tanks shall be subdivided, preferably by
drainage channels or at least by intermediate curbs, in order to prevent spills from
endangering adjacent tanks within the diked area as follows:
1. When storing normally stable liquids in vertical cone roof tanks constructed with
weak roof-to-shell seams or approved floating roof tanks, or when storing crude
petroleum in producing areas in any type of tank, one subdivision shall be provided for
each group of tanks (no tank exceeding 10,000 barrels capacity) having an aggregate
capacity not exceeding 15,000 barrels.
2. When storing normally stable liquids in tanks not covered in Subsection 1 of this
section, one subdivision shall be provided for each tank in excess of 2,500 barrels, and
one subdivision shall be provided for each group of tanks (no tank exceeding 2,500
barrels capacity having an aggregate capacity not exceeding 3,750 barrels.
3. Whenever two or more tanks, any one of which is over 150 feet in diameter, are
located in a common diked area, intermediate dikes shall be provided between adjacent
tanks to hold at least 10 percent of the capacity of the tank so enclosed, not including the
volume displaced by the tank.
F. Within each dike area, drainage shall be provided at a consistent slope of not less
than one percent but not more than five percent, away from tanks toward a sump,
drainage system, or other safe means of disposal located at the greatest practical distance
from the tank. Such drains shall normally be controlled in a manner so as to prevent
hazardous substances from entering natural water courses, public sewers, or public
drains. Control of drainage shall be accessible under fire conditions from outside the
diked area.
B. Every aboveground storage tank shall have an emergency vent which shall
consist of some form of construction or device that will relieve excessive internal
pressure caused by exposure fires that might cause the rupture of the tank shell or bottom.
In a vertical tank, this construction may take the form of a weak roof-to-shell seam.
Where entire dependence for such additional relief is placed upon some device other than
a weak roof-to-shell seam, the total venting capacity of both normal and emergency vents
shall be sufficient to prevent rupture of the shell or bottom of the tank, if vertical, or of
the shell or heads, if horizontal. Such device may be a self-closing manway cover or one
using long bolts that permit the cover to lift under internal pressure, or an additional or
larger relief valve or valves.
C. The size of vents shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No.
18 or shall be as large as the filling or withdrawal connection, whichever is larger, but in
no case less than one and one-quarter inches nominal inside diameter.
D. Tank vents shall be readily accessible for inspection and shall be properly
maintained at all times.
Gauging devices for aboveground tanks shall be of a type and design that will not
continuously expose the vapor space above the liquid level in the tank, and will minimize
liquid loss should the device be damaged mechanically or by fire.
Sources of ignition shall not be within 25 feet of any aboveground tank containing:
A. Class I liquids
B. Class II or III liquids at temperature above their flashpoints unless safeguarded
as approved by the Chief.
In addition to the general requirements set forth in this division, aboveground tanks
located inside buildings shall conform to the following:
A. Tanks located inside buildings shall be limited to 500 gallons individual capacity
unless additional capacity is approved by the Chief.
1. No tank shall be located within five feet of combustible materials nor within five
feet of any exit.
2. Tanks with not more than 500 gallons of Class II or III liquids may be installed
below grade in basements of buildings if located in a fire-resistive room provided with
automatic fire protection and an approved detection system. Such room shall be capable
of containing 100 percent of the total capacity of all tanks. Tanks shall be installed in
compliance with the specifications for aboveground tanks contained in L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 37.
3. Vapors from normal and emergency vents of tanks within buildings shall be
exhausted at a safe location outside the building.
C. Every tank exceeding 10 square feet of exposed surface area shall be equipped
with a tight-fitting cover, or an approved automatic closing cover, or an approved local
ventilation system. All covers shall be kept tightly in place at all times other than during
periods of filling, withdrawal of contents, or cleaning.
D. All open top tanks containing flammable or combustible liquids and exceeding
150 gallons capacity or 10 square feet surface area shall be provided with approved
drains, curbs, overflow pipes, and similar protection in accordance with the provisions in
Division 81 of this article.
E. Connections to horizontal tanks shall be through the top. Fill, return, and similar
pipes shall be extended below the level of the suction pipe intake or shall be trapped
inside the tank in a manner to prohibit the escape of vapors.
F. Connections to vertical tanks shall be through the top wherever practicable, and
otherwise through the side.
G. Atmospheric tanks containing flammable or combustible liquids shall also be
subject to the following conditions:
1. The inlet of the fill pipe shall be located outside of the building and not less than
five feet from any building openings. The fill pipe shall terminate within six inches of the
bottom of the tank.
2. Tanks located in buildings, under buildings, or where the tank location is not
visible from the fill opening, shall be equipped with closing devices installed in the fill
line in a manner to prevent filling the tank to more than 95 percent capacity. In addition
to such closing device, there shall be an audible alarm at the fill opening set to operate
automatically when the tank reaches 90 percent of capacity.
EXCEPTION:
Tanks equipped with an overflow pipe at least one pipe size larger than the fill pipe
discharging to an approved location.
3. Withdrawal connections through the side of a tank below the liquid level shall be
equipped with an automatic closing heat-actuated device.
EXCEPTION:
Engine fuel tanks installed in conformance with Section 57.31.22 of this article are
exempt from the requirements of this subsection.
A. Every room or building in which tanks are located or in which Class I, II, or IIIA
liquids are manufactured, used, processed, or stored shall be equipped with natural or
approved mechanical means of ventilation sufficient to prevent the formation or retention
of flammable vapors.
A. Every engine fuel tank shall be approved by the Chief and equipped with an
approved emergency vent of sufficient size to properly relieve any internal pressure
which might be created from exposure to heat or fire.
B. Every engine fuel tank shall be so installed that the top is lower than the fuel
pump or carburetor on any such engine.
C. No fuel supply pipe shall be installed except in the top of the tank. The fuel
supply system shall be installed so that broken pipes or loose connections will not permit
leakage from the fuel tank.
D. Unless located in an approved fire resistive room, any fuel tank located inside of,
or on the roof of a building shall be limited to 25 gallons capacity for gasoline and 60
gallons capacity for diesel.
E. When installed within two feet of an exhaust manifold or pipe, the fuel tank shall
be protected against heat by a metal baffle or equivalent insulation.
F. Every pump which supplies any engine fuel tank shall be provided with an
interlock device so that the pump may operate only when the engine being supplied is in
operation.
Every aboveground tank used for the storage of hazardous substance shall have
conspicuously posted warning placards and signs in accordance with the provisions of
this section. Warning placards shall be designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D
Standard No. 58 and shall be posted on at least two sides of any such aboveground tank.
Any tank containing Class I liquids at any temperature, or Class II or III liquids at
temperatures above their flash points shall also have conspicuously posted thereon a sign
in letters not less than three inches high on contrasting background reading “NO
SMOKING OR OPEN FLAME WITHIN 25 FEET.”
EXCEPTION:
In lieu of posting each tank in areas containing more than one tank, the area itself may
be posted in a manner approved by the Chief.
UNDERGROUND TANKS
Pursuant to Chapter 6.11., and Chapter 6.7., Section 25299.1., of the California Health
and Safety Code (CHSC), the City of Los Angeles assumes enforcement responsibility
for the implementation of Title 23, Division 3, Chapter 16 of the California Code of
Regulations (CCR) and Chapter 6.7 of the CHSC. Chapter 16 CCR and 6.7 CHSC relate
to the underground storage of hazardous materials.
Pursuant to Chapter 6.7, Section 25299.2 of the CHSC the Los Angeles City Fire
Department executes its right to adopt and enforce underground tank regulations,
requirements, or standards of performance that are more stringent than regulations
requirements, or standards of performance in effect under Chapter 6.7 with respect to
underground storage tanks, if the regulation, requirement, or standard of performance is
consistent with Chapter 6.7 CHSC.
EXCEPTION:
The provisions of these sections shall not include structures such as clarifiers, sumps,
separators, storm drains, catch basins, oil field gathering lines, refinery pipelines,
intrastate pipelines, lagoons, evaporation ponds, well cellars, separation sumps, lined or
unlined pits, aboveground storage tank spill containment areas, or final interceptors in
industrial waste pretreatment systems.
The following words and phrases whenever used in these sections shall be defined as
follows:
Existing Facility – Any underground tank containing a hazardous substance which
was installed or placed in service prior to January 1, 1984.
Primary Tank – The portion of an underground tank which comes into immediate
contact on its inner surface with the hazardous substance being contained.
Secondary Containment – A system of containment external to, and separate from, the
primary tank. One secondary containment may serve as secondary containment for more
than one primary tank.
Every new underground tank shall be provided with and meet the following minimum
requirements.
E. Approved corrosion protection for steel tanks through the use of an engineered
properly installed and maintained cathodic protection system. (Added by Ord. No.
167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
E. When there is a possibility of water intruding into the space between the primary
tank and secondary containment by precipitation, infiltration, or other means, the facility
shall be designed and constructed with the capability to monitor and remove such water
intrusion.
The construction, corrosion protection, and testing of underground tanks shall comply
with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 37 and applicable sections of this article.
Every existing underground tank shall meet the following minimum requirements by
January 1, 1985.
F. On or before December 22, 1998, the existing underground storage tank shall be
replaced or upgraded to prevent unauthorized releases due to corrosion, spills, and
overfills for the operating life of the underground storage tank. (Added by Ord. No.
167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
The continued use of, and permit approval for, an underground tank or facility is
subject to modification or termination by the Chief whenever there has been any
unauthorized release, or when necessary to comply with the minimum requirements of
this article.
Existing underground tanks and piping shall be precision tested for tightness by an
approved method capable of meeting the requirements of NFPA 329 (1987 Edition), on
an annual basis.
Precision tests shall be performed by qualified technical personnel experienced in the
use of the test procedure and licensed by the State of California in accordance with CCR
Section 2751, Title 23.
Whenever a leak is detected, the Chief shall be notified in accordance with Section
57.31.47 B of this article.
When it is determined that an unauthorized release has occurred, the Chief shall
require a site assessment. The site assessment shall include sufficient information to
clearly delineate the extent of contamination and a plan for remediation. Site assessment
and remediation plans shall be submitted within 90 days from tank abandonment or
unauthorized release and shall be approved by the Chief before the commencement of
any work.
B. Soil boring logs identifying the subsurface geology of the site using the Unified
Soil Classification System.
C. Appropriate analytical tests based on the products stored in the underground tank
in accordance with EPA Guidelines as approved by the Chief.
E. A remediation plan to be approved by the Chief based on the data from the site
assessment.
F. The site assessment shall be certified by a California Registered Geologist or a
California Certified Engineering Geologist.
Implementation of the remediation plan shall begin within 30 days of Fire Department
approval.
NOTE:
EXCEPTION:
Existing underground tanks which are in a concrete vault and the exterior surface of
the tanks are accessible to visual inspection. Visual inspections shall be conducted at
intervals specified by the Chief.
a. Be connected to alarm panels which shall have both visual and audible alarms
incorporated. Audibility shall be 10 decibels above ambient sound levels, but not less
than 85 decibels.
d. Be tamper proof.
5. All monitoring systems must be field performance tested for the product being
monitored. Appropriate tracer substances may be used in testing vadose systems.
a. Must go into leak detect mode a minimum of once every 24-hour period. If the
test is aborted for any reason, the system must automatically re-test until test is complete.
Confirmed leaks shall be reported immediately. Tank Level Monitoring, as a stand-alone
monitoring system, can only be used in Underground Tanks that can be shut down for a
six-hour time period to allow for completion of the test. Turbines must be disabled by
the system during the test. A two-hour quiescent period is required prior to testing and
after product delivery. If product is introduced or extracted due to delivery, dispensing,
or theft, the test shall automatically abort. The retest shall not begin until two hours after
product introduction and 1 one-hour after product extraction,
or;
a. Shall cause complete turbine shut down based on a leak rate of not greater than
.05 gph.
A. Tanks which are located in areas where they may become buoyant due to a rise
in the water table, or in areas which are subject to flooding, shall be anchored in a manner
to prevent their floating or unsafe movement.
C. Underground tanks shall be separated from each other by at least one foot.
C. Tanks located in protected areas where they are not, and will never be, subjected
to vehicular or other superimposed loads may be installed with a cover of not less than
two feet of earth when approved by the Chief.
D. Tanks located where subjected to traffic shall be installed at least three feet
below the lowest grade or shall be covered with at least 18 inches of noncorrosive inert
backfill material such as clean sand or pea gravel well tamped in place plus six inches of
reinforced concrete slab that extends one foot beyond the extremity of the tank and is
designed to sustain the vehicular and other superimposed loads in accordance with
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
F. Underground tanks which have a remote fill shall be equipped with automatic
closing devices installed in the fill line to prevent filling the tank more than 95 percent. In
addition to such closing device, there shall be an audible alarm set at 90 percent capacity.
The remote fill and alarm shall be labeled and located in a manner approved by the Chief.
G. All new underground tank installations shall be provided with approved overfill
prevention equipment. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
A. Every underground tank having only one fill opening shall be equipped with a
vent pipe of not less than one and one-fourth inch nominal inside diameter. Tanks
requiring vapor recovery systems shall have no less than one vent pipe with a nominal
inside diameter of not less than two inches. Vent pipes shall have the capacity to prevent
back-pressure development in tanks from exceeding 2.5 PSIG.
B. All Class I liquid vent pipes shall be 18 inches above the highest point of any
roof of any building within 15 feet of the point of termination. Vent pipes shall terminate
12 feet above the adjacent ground level and not less than 10 feet from building openings.
They shall discharge only upward or horizontally to disperse vapors away from exposures
and hazardous locations.
C. Every vent pipe shall run without sag or trap from the top of the tank to which it
is connected and shall be so located and directed that flammable vapors will not
accumulate or travel to an unsafe location, enter building openings, or be trapped under
eaves.
D. Vent pipes running in a semi-horizontal direction shall be installed to provide
one-fourth inch of fall for each one foot of horizontal run toward the tank.
F. Vent pipes shall be unobstructed and only approved pressure relief valves or
approved ball check valves shall be installed inside the tank.
Underground tanks, secondary containment, monitoring systems, and piping shall not
be covered until the installation has been tested and approved by the Chief.
Before the underground storage tank is placed in service, the underground storage
systems shall be tested in operating condition using a precision test as defined in National
Fire Prevention Association Pamphlet 329.
Except for product line piping, suction delivery piping systems may be excluded from
the requirement for secondary containment when the following are provided:
A. Vent piping and vapor recovery piping are equipped with an approved ball valve
back flow protection installed inside the tank which prevents the contents of the tank
from entering the piping under pressure.
B. Vent piping, product piping, product return piping, and vapor recovery piping
systems run directly to tank without sag or trap and with one-fourth inch fall for each one
foot of horizontal run.
D. The underground tank is provided with approved spill and overfill prevention
equipment.
Except for product line piping, pressure delivery piping systems may be excluded
from the requirement for secondary containment when the following are provided:
A. An approved leak detection system is provided for the product piping which
shall automatically shut-off the pumps when a leak is detected.
B. Vent piping and vapor recovery piping are equipped with approved ball valve
back flow protection which prevents the contents of the tank from entering the piping
under pressure.
C. Vent piping, product return piping, and vapor recovery piping systems which run
directly to tank without sag or trap and with one-fourth inch fall for each one foot of
horizontal run.
D. The underground tank is provided with approved spill and overfill prevention
equipment.
SEC. 57.31.47.
All service openings at gound level over or leading to the primary tank or secondary
containment shall be so designed as to be liquid tight and not allow any drainage or
contamination to enter through such opening and shall be installed a minimum of one
inch above adjacent ground level.
Every fill box shall have a product identification label attached. The fill box fixture
shall have a capacity of not more than five gallons and all metallic components shall be
appropriately gounded. The fill box or cap shall be capable of being locked.
SEC. 57.31.51.
All abandonment work required by this section shall be inspected by the Chief.
A. Whenever an underground tank is out of service for a period of 90 days or when
there is not a valid Permit to operate, the tank shall be abandoned within 30 days after
notice has been given by the Chief.
E. The permittee shall establish to the satisfaction of the Chief that no unauthorized
release of hazardous substance has occurred.
Underground tanks may be repaired one time in a method approved by the Chief and
in accordance with the following provisions:
C. After such repair, the tank shall be tested in a method approved by the Chief.
No person shall reinstall any used or reconditioned underground tank unless the tank
complies with all the following requirements:
D. Tested in accordance with factory production test requirements for a new tank.
E. Installed in accordance with all applicable sections of this Code for new tanks.
All owners and operators of an underground storage tank shall maintain evidence of
financial responsibility as required by Section 25292.2 Health and Safety Code.
At least one tank and all associated pipes and equipment shall be compatible with
methanol in accordance with AQMD rule 1170 when underground motor vehicle fuel
storage tanks are installed or replaced.
DIVISION 33
EXITS AND OCCUPANT LOADS
Section
57.33.01 Scope.
57.33.05 Overcrowding.
57.33.06 Exits.
A. The Chief shall determine the maximum occupant load permitted for any
assembly occupancy, or any portion of other occupancies used for assembly purposes,
based upon the provisions of this division. The maximum occupant load shall not exceed
the maximum occupant load designated in the Certificate of Occupancy issued by the
Department of Building and Safety, or in the absence of such certificate, the maximum
occupant load approved by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
The Chief may increase the occupant load of the assembly areas above that specified
in Table No. 33-A, provided the required exit width and aisles are provided for the
increased occupant load.
D. For buildings or portions thereof which have more than one occupancy, the
occupant load shall be determined for each use.
EXCEPTION:
Accessory use areas which ordinarily are used only by persons who occupy the main
areas of an occupancy shall be provided with exits as though they are completely
occupied, but their occupant load need not be included in computing the total occupant
load of the building.
E. The occupant load for buildings or areas containing two or more occupancies
shall be determined by adding the occupant loads of the various occupancies as computed
in accordance with this division.
F. To determine occupant load and exit requirements, floor plans shall be submitted
to the Chief for the proposed occupancy. Such plans shall be drawn to scale and shall
show all seats, tables, furnishings, equipment, and all aisles, cross aisles, and exit
doorways in accordance with this division. An approved floor plan for the occupancy
shall be on the premises and available for inspection by the Chief. The approval date n
the floor plan shall coincide with the approval date on the posted occupant load sign.
H. Fixed Seating:
1. For areas having fixed seats and aisles, the occupant load shall be determined by
the number of fixed seats installed. The required width of aisles serving fixed seats shall
not be used for any other purpose.
2. For areas having fixed benches or pews, the occupant load shall be based on one
person for each 18 inches of bench or pew length, or major portion thereof.
3. Where booths are used in dining or drinking areas, the occupant load shall be
based on one person for each 24 inches of booth length or major portion thereof.
Measurement shall be taken at the front leading edge of the seat.
4. At counters or bars in dining or drinking areas, the occupant load shall be based
on one person for each 24 inches of counter or bar length, or major portion thereof.
C. The manager or person in control of any place of assemblage shall not permit
more persons in attendance than that number of occupants shown on the approved
occupant load sign.
D. A sign entitled “Occupant Load” shall be provided by the owner, manager, or
person in control, or by the Department, subject to approval by the Chief, and shall
contain the following information:
2. Use
3. Number of Occupants
4. Address of Occupancy
6. Date approved
E. The words on the sign designating occupant load, the use, and the number of
occupants shall be in letters not less than 1/2 inch in height.
No manager or person in control thereof shall allow the use of any room, building or
premises without providing the exits required by this article, Title 19 and 24, C.A.C., and
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
2. Auction Rooms
30
7
Auditoriums
Dance Floors
Lobbies, Foyers
Lodge Rooms
Reviewing Stands
Stadiums
50
7
Conference Rooms
Dining Rooms
Drinking Establishments
Exibit Rooms
Gymnasiums
Lounges
Stages
Trade Shows
50
15
5. Board Homes
6
80
6. Classrooms
50
20
7. Dormitories
10
50
8. Dwellings
10
300
9. Garages, Parking
30
200
17. Offices
30
100
Rooms:
Basement
Ground Floor
Upper Floors
7
50
10
20
30
50
22. Warehouses
30
300
2. This table shall not be used to determine working space requirements per person.
No person shall install, alter, or maintain any exit door that does not comply with this
section, Title 19 and 24, C.A.C., or Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
A. General: No person shall construct, alter, or maintain any door as an exit from
any portion of any building, except a door which can be opened from the inside without
the use of a key, tool, or special knowledge or effort, as determined by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
This subsection shall not apply to main entrance exterior exit doors in a Group B
Occupancy where there is a readily visible, durable sign on or adjacent to the door
stating “THIS DOOR TO REMAIN UNLOCKED DURING BUSINESS HOURS.” The
sign shall be in letters not less than one inch high on a contrasting background. The use of
this exception may be revoked by the Chief.
B. Swing: Exit doors shall swing in the direction of exit travel when serving:
C. Double-acting Doors: Double-acting doors shall not be used as exits when any of
the following conditions exist:
A double-acting door shall be provided with a view panel of not less than 200 square
inches.
D. Width and height: Every required exit doorway shall be of a size so as to permit
the installation of a door not less than three feet in width and not less than six feet eight
inches in height. When installed, exit doors shall be capable of opening so that the clear
width of the exit not less than 32 inches.
E. Door Leaf Width: A single leaf of an exit door shall not exceed our feet in
width.
F. Special Doors: Revolving, sliding, and overhead doors shall not be used as
required exits.
EXCEPTION:
G. Door Identification: Exit doors shall be so marked that they are easily
distinguishable from the adjacent construction.
H. Type of Latch: Manually operated edge or surface mounted flush bolts and
surface bolts are prohibited. When exit doors are used in pairs and approved automatic
flush bolts are used, the door leaf having the automatic flush bolts shall have no door
knob or surface-mounted hardware. The unlatching of any leaf shall not require more
than one operation.
J. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this section
shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $500.00, up to and not
exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more than
six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation of
any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
EXCEPTION:
Exit doors from buildings or rooms having an occupant load of 10 or less may be
provided with a night latch, deadbolt or security chain, provided such devices are
openable from the inside without the use of a key or tool and mounted at a height not to
exceed 48 inches above the floor.
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $300.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
Exit stairways for buildings four or more stories in height shall be continuous to each
floor served in either direction and shall be without obstructions such as intervening
doors and gates.
EXCEPTION:
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
A. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) Exit doors from any Group A or
E Occupancy having an occupant load of 50 or more shall not be provided with a latch or
lock unless it is panic hardware.
EXCEPTION:
In Group A Occupancies or portions thereof, having an occupant load of less than 300,
panic hardware may be omitted from the main exit when the main exit consists of a single
door or pair of doors. A key locking device may be used in lieu of panic hardware,
provided there is a readily visible metallic sign adjacent to the doorway stating, “THIS
DOOR MUST REMAIN UNLOCKED WHENEVER THE PUBLIC IS PRESENT.”
The sign shall be in letters not less than one inch high on a contrasting background.
When unlocked, the door must be free to swing without operation of any latching device.
Flush, edge, surface bolts, or any other type of device that may be used to restrain the
doors other than by operation of the locking device are prohibited. The use of this
exception may be revoked at any time by the Chief.
B. Installation of Panic Hardware: Only panic hardware approved and listed by the
State Fire Marshal shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
C. Panic hardware shall be installed not less than 30 inches nor more than 44 inches
above the floor. Maximum effort to operate doors shall not exceed eight and one-half
pounds for exterior doors and five pounds for interior doors, such pull or push effort
being applied at right angles to hinged doors. When fire doors are required the maximum
effort to operate the door may be increased not to exceed 15 pounds.
A. No person shall block, impede, or obstruct any exit to a public way or any access
to a building, structure or premises, in such a manner as to prevent or interfere with the
use of such exits or access by any person who is exiting or entering said occupied
building, structure, or premises.
B. In every building other than single family dwellings, there shall be maintained at
all times, one unobstructed aisle which leads to each required exit. Each required aisle
shall have a width equal to the minimum required in other sections of this article or when
not specified, the minimum width shall be 44 inches.
D. Whenever the Chief determines that exit paths to a public way need to be clearly
delineated to safeguard and preserve the exit paths, he Chief may require the exit paths to
be protected and identified by painted lines, railings, barrier posts, walks or other
approved means.
E. No person shall park any vehicle, or place any power truck, hand dolly, delivery
rack, refuse or waste container, or any other object in an exit, or in any other manner so
as to obstruct the exit.
G. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
Exit doorways shall not be eliminated if they are required in accordance with the
provisions of this article or Titles 19 and 24, C.A.C., or Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
A. No person shall attach or fasten, or cause to be fastened, to any part of any fire
escape, any rope, wire cable or similar device, except approved standard equipment, nor
shall any person store or maintain anything upon any part of any fire escape.
1. Through a room between the corridor and the fire escape if the door to the room
is openable from the corridor side without the use of a key, tool, or special knowledge or
effort, or by an alternate method of access, as determined by the Chief.
2. By a door openable to a fire escape from the interior without the use of a key,
tool, or special knowledge or effort, as determined by the Chief.
3. By a window openable from the interior without the use of a key, tool, or special
knowledge or effort, as determined by the Chief. Such window shall have a minimum
dimension of 29 inches when open. The sill shall be not more than 30 inches above the
floor and landing.
C. Protection of Exterior Openings: When a fire escape is designated as one of the
required exits from a building, the openings onto the fire escape landing and other
openings within five feet horizontally of the landing shall be protected in a manner
acceptable to the Chief.
D. Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly. (Added by
Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
Persons owning or managing any occupancy shall provide exit signs and directional
exit signs as follows:
A. Location: Exit signs, or directional exit signs, or both, shall be provided at every
exit door, at the intersection of corridors, at exit stairways or ramps and at such other
locations and intervals as are necessary to provide the occupants with knowledge of at
least two means of egress. Exit signs need not be provided for the following:
3. Main exterior exit doors which obviously and clearly are identifiable as exits,
when approved by the Chief.
B. Graphics: Exit signs and directional exit signs shall have block letters at least six
inches in height with a stroke of not less than 3/4 inch. Letter shall be of such color or
design as to be in strong contrast to the background of the sign. Arrows or other
directional symbols shall be of equal visibility to that stipulated herein for letters.
C. Illumination: Whenever the building is occupied, exit signs and directional exit
signs shall be lighted so that they are clearly visible. Electrical internally lighted exit
signs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
1. Separate Circuits: Exit signs and exit directional signs shall be electrically
illuminated and the two lamps shall be energized from separate circuits, one of which
shall be used only for such signs, separated from an other circuits in the building, and
independently controlled, when the capacity of any occupancy is as follows:
D. Not An Exit: Any door in a passageway or stairshaft which is not an exit, and
which is so located as likely to be mistaken for an exit, shall be identified by a sign
reading “NO EXIT,” or a sign indicating its actual use, such as “TO
BASEMENT,” “STOREROOM,” “BOILER ROOM,” “ELECTRICAL ROOM” or other
applicable sign.
(a) An announcement shall be made in the main area of the event at the beginning
of each public assemblage. It shall include the locations and number of the exits. For
those assemblages extending over two hours in length and not having a definite ending
time, the announcement shall be made at the beginning and at least every two hours
thereafter.
(b) The exit locations must be visible to the occupants as the announcement is being
made. This may be accomplished by highlighting the exits using spotlights, flashlights,
security officers or event personnel to point out the exits, lowering the houselights to
highlight the exit signs, or a large visual screen showing all exits or by using other
appropriate measures.
F. Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by a fine, with a
mandatory minimum of $100.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment
in the County Jail for a period of not more than six months, or by both a fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion of a day, during which a violation of any provision of this section is
committed, continued, or permitted by a person and shall be punishable accordingly.
(Added by Ord. No. 175,429, Eff. 9/28/03.)
Every person owning or managing any building with a stairway, hallway or exit
passageway for egress shall provide and maintain sufficient light to enable all persons to
readily find, distinguish, and use such ways of egress any time the building is occupied.
Electrical installations shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Electrical Code).
EXCEPTION:
In a hallway or stairway in dwellings serving not more than two dwelling units, the
lighting need not remain lighted, provided that the lighting is capable of being controlled
within the dwelling unit.
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $200.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly. (Para.
Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
A. Every person owning or managing a building three or more stories in height shall
provide and maintain an approved stairway identification sign at each floor level landing
in every stairshaft. The sign shall indicate the floor level, the lower and upper
terminations of the stairway, whether or not there is roof access, and the identification of
the stairway.
3. The numbers and/or letters indicating the floor level shall be placed in the middle
of the sign and shall be at least five inches in height with a three-fourths inch stroke.
4. The following numbers and letters shall be located on the sign as indicated
below, and shall be at least one inch in height with a one-fourth inch stroke:
a. The numbers and letters indicating the lower and upper terminations of the
stairway shall be at the top of the sign.
b. The wording “Roof Access” or “No Roof Access” shall be below the lower and
upper terminations designation and above the floor designation.
c. Stairways shall be identified consecutively such as “Stair 1”, “Stair 2”, etc. This
designation shall be located at the bottom of the sign.
6. The bottom of the sign shall be five feet above the floor of the stairway landing.
C. The Chief shall have the authority to determine the floor level number placed on
the sign so as to standardize the signs installed in stairways. Floor level numbers placed
on such signs shall conform to the Chief’s specifications.
D. Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $200.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly. (Added by
Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
A. General: Every portion of every building in which are installed seats, tables,
merchandise, equipment, or similar materials shall be provided with aisles leading to an
exit.
1. Width. Every aisle shall be not less than three feet wide if serving only one side,
and not less than three feet six inches wide if serving both sides. Such minimum width
shall be measured at the point farthest from an exit, cross aisle, or foyer, and shall be
increased by one and one-half inches for each five feet in length toward the exit, cross
aisle, or foyer. Such determined width shall be the minimum required width along the
entire length of the aisle.
B. Spacing of Tables:
1. Tables shall be arranged so that the seating edges of adjacent tables are not less
than 54 inches apart. Rectangular tables arranged to accommodate seating on one side
only shall have not less than 36 inches between adjacent table edges.
EXCEPTION to 2. above:
Group A Occupancies, including their exit systems which are provided with an
automatic sprinkler system and a fire alarm system equipped with product of combustion
smoke detectors, may be exempt from this requirement with the Chiefs approval.
C. Loose Chair Seating: Areas utilizing chairs for theater type seating shall comply
with the following:
1. The spacing of rows of chairs from back to back shall be not less than 33 inches.
There shall be a space of not less than 12 inches between the back of each seat and front
of the seat immediately behind.
2. Seats shall be arranged so that there shall be not more than six intervening seats
between any seat and the nearest aisle.
3. All loose seats, folding chairs, or similar seating facilities that are not fixed to the
floor shall be bonded together in groups of not less than three.
EXCEPTION:
When not more than 299 such seats, chairs, or facilities are provided bonding thereof
may be deleted.
D. Displays: In areas used for display of equipment, booths, or similar uses, aisles
shall be provided as follows:
1. Areas containing less than 5,000 square feet of usable floor space shall be
provided with six feet wide aisles arranged so as not to exceed the distance of travel
requirements of this section.
2. Areas containing 5,000 to 30,000 square feet of usable floor space shall be
provided with eight feet wide aisles arranged so as to not exceed the distance of travel
requirements of this section.
3. Areas containing more than 30,000 square feet of usable floor space shall be
provided with 10 feet wide aisles arranged so as to not exceed the distance of travel
requirements of this section.
4. Aisles that are provided for the convenience of persons in attendance and are not
required for exit purposes may be reduced below the required aisle width by two feet.
D. Handicapped Requirement: The Fire Safety Director shall maintain a current list
of handicapped persons located within the building who would require assistance during
an emergency evacuation or relocation. Methods for their safe evacuation or relocation
must be established.
E. Hotel Exemption: Hotels are exempt from the requirements set forth in
Subsection “A. 2.”, “A. 3.”, and “C.” of this section, except that building staff and
employees shall participate in the fire drills required in Subsection “C.”
DIVISION 38
TANK VEHICLES FOR FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE
LIQUIDS
Section
57.38.01 Scope.
57.38.02 Cargo Tank Construction for Transporting Class I, II, or III Liquids at
Temperatures at or above Their Boiling Points.
57.38.03 Cargo Tank Construction for Transporting Class I, II, or III Liquids at
Temperatures below Their Boiling Points.
57.38.05 Attendant.
57.38.13 Repair.
57.38.14 Smoking.
Tank Cars
57.38.18 General Requirements.
57.38.19 Prohibitions.
57.38.24 Operation, Maintenance, and Use of Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles.
57.38.31 Maintenance.
57.38.33 Repair.
The provisions of this division shall regulate the loading and unloading operations for
all cargo tanks and tank vehicles used for the transportation of flammable and
combustible liquids with a flashpoint below 200°F. or any material that has been heated
to a temperature above its flashpoint and is transported in a liquid state within the City.
These relations shall apply to design, construction, equipment used, and maintenance
concerning cargo tanks and tank vehicles used for the transportation of flammable and
combustible liquids not otherwise regulated by the California Highway Patrol pursuant to
State Vehicle Code Division 14.7 and the requirements of the Department of
Transportation in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26. Further, the provisions of this division set
forth the minimum fire safety requirements concerning the loading and discharging of
flammable and combustible liquids from tank cars.
Cargo tanks, piping, and connections designed for transporting Class I, II, or III
liquids at or above their boiling points shall be built in accordance with L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 26 (Part 178 of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Specification MC-
307, MC-312 or MC-331). The use of existing cargo tanks constructed on or before
December 1, 1967, may be continued, provided they have been designed and constructed
in accordance with Specifications MC-304 and MC-330.
Cargo tanks, piping, and connections designed for transporting Class I, II, or III
liquids below their boiling points hall be built in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No.
26 Part 178 of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Specification MC-306 and 178.340,
General Design Requirements). The use of existing cargo tanks constructed on or before
December 1,1967, may be continued, provided they have been designed and constructed
in accordance with Specifications MC-304 and MC-330.
B. California Highway Patrol Cargo Tank Certification Sticker: All cargo tanks
used for the transportation of flammable or combustible liquids shall have a Cargo Tank
Certification Sticker issued by the California Highway Patrol. The sticker shall be plainly
affixed to the cargo tank.
EXCEPTION:
Tank vehicles which are not operated on public streets and highways.
C. Metal Identification Plate: All cargo tanks carrying flammable and combustible
liquids shall have the manufacturer’s metal identification plate located on the right-hand
side near the front, readily accessible for inspection. This plate shall be permanently
affixed to a portion of the tank structure by soldering, brazing, welding, or other equally
permanent means. It shall be marked by legible stamping, embossing, or other means of
forming letters not less than 1/4” high into or on the metal of the plate itself. The
following information listed below shall be on the plate:
a. Manufacturer’s name.
c. Date of manufacture.
The driver, operator, or attendant of any tank vehicle shall not remain in the vehicle,
but shall be present at the vehicle location during the loading or unloading process. The
delivery hose, when attached to a tank vehicle, shall be considered to be a part of the tank
vehicle.
Every tank vehicle shall be equipped with at least two chock blocks. The parking
brake shall be Yet and chock blocks shall be placed in such a manner as to prevent the
forward or backward motion of the vehicle whenever it is parked, left unattended by the
driver, or during loading and unloading operations.
EXCEPTION:
Transfer of flammable and combustible liquids from a tank vehicle into fuel tanks of
marine craft (for purposes of auxiliary power only), motor vehicles, or motor equipment
may be performed under Permit from the Department pursuant to Division 5 of this
article, provided:
1. The transfer operation is not performed where the public is invited or where there
is unusual exposure to life and property.
3. The tank vehicle’s specific function is that of supplying fuel to fuel tanks.
B. Shut Down: Motors of tank vehicles shall be shut off during the making and
breaking of the hose connections and during the loading and unloading operation, except
when the loading or unloading is done with the use of transfer apparatus deriving its
power from the motor of the tank vehicle.
E. Discharge Hoses: All hose fittings shall be liquid-tight. When multiple hoses are
used, the tank vehicle shall not be stationed on any public street, alley, walk or other
public thoroughfare. Multiple hoses are permitted for gravity discharge only.
G. Dome Covers: Dome covers shall be closed and latched while the tank vehicle
is in transit.
H. Overfill Protection: The driver, operator, or attendant of any tank vehicle shall,
before making delivery to any tank or transferring from one tank to another, determine by
a suitable gauging device the unfilled capacity of such tanks.
A. No tank vehicle shall be located inside of any building while any tank or
compartment thereof is being loaded or unloaded, provided, however, that a tank vehicle
may be located under a canopy of an auto-fueling station when unloading. Tank vehicles
used exclusively for transporting combustible liquids having a flash point of 200° F. or
more are exempt from the provisions of this section.
B. Tank vehicles shall enter and leave loading and unloading sites by moving in a
forward direction only. Deviation from this requirement shall be permitted only when a
competent person stands at the rear of the vehicle and aids the driver in safely backing
up.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When such tank vehicle is disabled through accident or mechanical failure and it
is necessary to remove the fuel cargo, such cargo may be transferred to another tank
vehicle.
2. When such tank vehicle is used for removing products from a waste oil tank or
other facility containing combustible liquids having a flash point of 200° F. or more.
3. When such tank vehicle loading operation is performed under Permit from the
Department pursuant to Division 5 of this article.
A. No tank vehicle which has been used for the transportation of Class I liquids
shall be loaded with Class II or III liquids until such tank or compartment thereof and all
piping, pumps, meters, and hose connected thereto have been completely drained and
flushed.
B. Class II or III liquids shall not be loaded into compartments adjacent to Class I
liquids unless double bulkheads are provided, nor shall chemically noncompatible
chemicals be loaded into adjacent compartments unless separated by double bulkheads.
A. Parking on Street, Highway or Alley: A driver shall not leave a tank vehicle
unattended on any street, highway or alley, nor within 500 feet of any residential,
educational, institutional or assembly occupancy, nor at any other place that would
present a life hazard.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When the operator stops for meals during the day or night if the street is well
lighted at the point of parking and such parking would present no life hazard.
2. When, in case of accident or other emergency, the operator must leave to obtain
assistance.
B. Parking off Street, Highway or Alley: A tank vehicle shall not be parked at any
one point for longer than one hour.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When garaged in a building specifically approved by the Chief for such use.
2. When inside a bulk plant and 25 feet from the property line or within a building
approved for such use.
3. When at other approved locations not less than 50 feet from any open flame or
any building except those buildings approved for the storage or servicing of such vehicle.
4. When, in case of breakdown or other emergency, the operator must leave the
vehicle to take necessary action to correct the emergency.
B. No cargo tank shall be repaired by any method employing a flame, arc, or other
source of ignition unless the tank is purged of all flammable or combustible liquids and
vapors, or made safe in another manner approved by the Chief.
Smoking by any tank vehicle driver, helper, repairman, or other person is prohibited
while driving, transferring Class I, II or IIIA liquids to or from, or making any repairs to
tank vehicles.
Each cargo tank or tank vehicle shall be equipped and maintained with at least one
approved portable fire extinguisher having a 2A, 20B:C classification in accordance with
Division 140 of this article. Portable fire extinguishers shall be kept in good operating
condition at all times, and shall be located in an accessible place on each tank vehicle.
Engines, other than those providing propulsion power, installed or carried upon a tank
vehicle transporting Class I liquids for the purpose of providing power for the operation
of pumps or other devices shall be approved, and shall meet the following requirements:
A. The engine air intake shall be equipped with an effective flame arrestor or an air
cleaner having effective flame arrestor characteristics. The flame arrestor or air cleaner
shall be securely installed and capable of preventing emission of flame from the intake
side of the engine in event of backfiring.
B. The fuel system shall be so located or constructed as to minimize the fire hazard.
If the fuel tank is located above or immediately adjacent to the engine, suitable shielding
shall be provided to prevent spillage or leakage from the tank or fuel system from coming
in contact with the engine or any parts of the ignition and exhaust systems. All parts of
the fuel system shall be constructed and installed in a workmanlike manner.
D. When the engine is located in a position where spillage from the cargo tank, its
appurtenances, or from side racks might constitute a hazard, suitable shielding shall be
provided to prevent such spillage from contacting the engine or engine exhaust system.
Shielding shall be constructed in a manner that will cause spillage to drain away from the
vicinity of the engine.
E. Where the engine is carried within an enclosed space, adequate provision shall be
made for air circulation at all times in order to prevent the accumulation of explosive
vapors and to avoid overheating.
F. The exhaust system shall be securely constructed, installed, and free from leaks.
The exhaust line and muffler shall have adequate clearance from combustible materials,
and the exhaust gases shall be discharged at a location which will not constitute a hazard.
When engines are carried in enclosed spaces, the exhaust gases shall be discharged
outside of each such enclosed space.
G. The ignition wiring shall be securely installed with firm connections. Spark plug
and all other terminals shall be suitably insulated to prevent sparking in event of contact
with conductive materials. The ignition switch shall be of the enclosed type.
C. Wiring shall be substantially installed with all terminals firmly connected and
insulated to prevent breaking from vibration or contact with conductive materials. Wires
shall have oil-proof insulation. If overload protection is provided, it shall be of the
explosion-proof type. All switches or other sparking devices shall be of the explosion-
proof type. All conduit entrances shall be sealed.
TANK CARS
Tank cars containing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be loaded or unloaded only on
private sidings or railroad siding facilities equipped for transferring the liquid between
tank cars and permanent storage tanks.
Tank cars shall be unloaded as soon as possible after their arrival at point of delivery,
and shall not be used as storage tanks except by Permit as set forth in Division 5 of this
article. Unless otherwise specified by such Permit, no tank car containing Class I, II or
IIIA liquids shall be allowed to remain on siding at point of delivery for more than 24
hours while connected for transfer operations. During such transfer operations, a
qualified person shall be in constant attendance.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. When a tank car to tank vehicle unloading operation is performed under Permit
from the Chief pursuant to Division 5 of this article.
A. Asphalt tank vehicles and all integral working parts, valves, safety relief devices,
burners, pressure tanks, and overflow basins shall be in good working condition and shall
be maintained free of excessive asphalt residue.
B. Overflow protection for asphalt tank vehicles shall be provided in the form of
reservoirs or flashing around fill and vent pipes. These shall be designed and maintained
so that hot asphalt will not spill onto tires, brakes, burner equipment, or exhaust system.
1. Piping or tubing used to transfer heated asphalt to the roof or above grade level
shall be a minimum of Schedule No. 40 metal pipe or equal. Flexible piping shall only be
used adjacent to the pump or kettle and shall not exceed six feet in length.
2. All piping shall be firmly supported at intervals of not more than 12 feet.
D. When asphalt tank vehicles or piping interfere with the use of or access to the
public way, barriers shall be provided at a minimum of 25 feet on either side of the
operation and shall clearly indicate that the enclosed area is restricted to use by
authorized persons only.
The design and construction of aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles shall conform to
the provisions of Section 57.38.03 of this Division and L.A.F.D. Standard No. 60.
SEC. 57.38.24. OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND USE OF AIRCRAFT FUEL
SERVICING TANK VEHICLES.
The following regulations shall apply to the operation, maintenance, and use of
aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles in addition to all other applicable provisions of this
division and L.A.F.D. Standard No. 60:
A. Aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles shall be stored outside and not less than 50
feet from any building. The location shall be approved by the General Manager of the
Department of Airports and the Chief of the Fire Department.
B. An H-4 Occupancy that is not a part of a hangar may be used for mechanical
repairs of aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles, exclusive of the cargo tank and piping
system.
EXCEPTION:
When necessary, minor adjustments or repairs may be made in order to move such
vehicles to the storage location when failure occurs elsewhere on the airport.
A. Aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles shall be loaded only at an approved loading
rack.
EXCEPTION:
When defueling aircraft, such vehicles may be loaded from the fuel tanks of aircraft.
B. The fuel cargo of any aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle shall be unloaded into
the fuel tanks of aircraft, underground storage tanks, or approved gravity storage tanks
only by approved transfer apparatus.
EXCEPTION:
When any such vehicle is disabled through accident or mechanical failure and it is
necessary to remove the fuel cargo, such cargo may be transferred to another aircraft fuel
servicing tank vehicle.
B. The propulsion or pumping engine of aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles shall
not be positioned under the wing of an aircraft during overwing fueling or where aircraft
fuel system vents are located on the upper wing surface. Aircraft fuel servicing tank
vehicles shall not be positioned within a l0-foot radius of aircraft fuel system vent
openings.
C. Hand brakes shall be set on fuel servicing tank vehicles before operators leave
the vehicle cab.
1. Every aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle shall be electrically bonded to the
aircraft being fueled or defueled, and either the aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle or the
aircraft shall be adequately grounded in an approved manner. A drag chain or flexible
ground conductor shall not be deemed to fulfill the requirements of this section for
grounding during fuel transfer.
EXCEPTION:
When refueling fixed wing aircraft at a rate not over 25 gpm using hose of not less
than 1-1/4" nominal diameter, only bonding shall be required.
3. All bonding and ground connections required by this section shall be made prior
to any fuel transfer and shall not be disconnected until fuel transfer operations are
completed.
C. Fuel transfer nozzles shall not be held in the open position by any device other
than by direct hand pressure of the operator.
D. Defueling: The transfer of fuel from an aircraft to a tank vehicle through a hose
shall be done in compliance with all requirements which apply to the fueling of an
aircraft. In addition, each operator shall establish procedures to prevent the overfilling of
the tank vehicle.
SEC. 57.38.28. BONDING AND GROUNDING.
B. Every aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle shall be provided and maintained with
a substantial heavy-duty ground cable of sufficient length to be bonded to the aircraft to
be serviced. Such cable shall be metallically connected to the transfer apparatus or
chassis of the aircraft refueler unit on one end and shall be provided with a suitable metal
clamp on the other end, to be affixed to the aircraft. The ground cable shall be bare or
have a transparent protective sleeve and shall be carried on a reel or in a compartment
provided for no other purpose. The ground cable shall always be carried in such a manner
that it will not be subjected to sharp kinks or accidental breakage under conditions of
general use.
Aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles shall be attended and operated only by persons
instructed in methods of proper use and operation and who are qualified to use such
vehicles in accordance with minimum safety requirements. Each qualified operator shall
be required to carry on his or her person an identification card issued by his or her
employer certifying that such person is so qualified.
A. Fuel transfer hose shall be properly placed on the approved reel or in the
compartment provided before any aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle is moved. Such
transfer hose shall not be looped or draped over any part of the vehicle except as herein
provided, nor shall fuel transfer hose be dragged when such vehicle is moved from one
fueling position to another.
Every aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle and all equipment used in connection
therewith shall be maintained in a safe operating condition and in good repair at all times.
A. No person shall smoke or produce any open flame in the cabin of the aircraft or
within 50 feet on the outside thereof. A qualified employee of the aircraft owner shall be
responsible for seeing that the passengers are not allowed to smoke when remaining
aboard the aircraft, nor while crossing the ramp between the loading gate and the aircraft.
B. Passengers shall not be permitted to linger about the plane, and shall proceed
directly between the loading gate and the aircraft.
C. Passenger loading stands shall be left in the loading position until all fuel transfer
operations are completed.
D. Fuel transfer operations shall not be performed on the main exit side of any
aircraft containing passengers except when the owner of such aircraft or a qualified
employee of such owner remains inside the aircraft to direct and assist the escape of such
passengers through regular and emergency exits in the event fire should occur during
such fuel transfer operations.
Any aircraft servicing equipment in use during fueling operations which is found by
the Chief to be defective or in a state of disrepair and by reason of such defect or state of
disrepair constitutes a fire hazard, shall be ordered out of service until such repairs,
replacements, or changes are made therein or thereon as may be necessary to render the
same safe for continued use. No person shall use any such defective equipment until the
same is rendered safe to the satisfaction of the Chief.
No aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle shall be parked, stored, repaired, or operated
within 50 feet of any building.
No person shall smoke or produce any open flame within 50 feet of any point where
fuel is being transferred.
Section
57.39.01 Scope.
57.39.02 Definitions.
57.39.21 Valves.
A. The provisions of this division shall regulate all systems of piping, tubing,
valves, and fittings used in containing or transferring hazardous materials that are
regulated by this article. The design of piping and tubing systems shall comply with the
specifications set forth in L.A.F.D. Standard Nos. 21, 68, and the provisions of this
division. If a conflict arises between these Standards and this division, the more
restrictive shall apply.
1. Tubing or casing, and any piping, valve, or fitting connected directly thereto on
any oil well.
2. Marine Vessel.
3. Aircraft.
4. Pipelines meeting the specifications of D.O.T. (Title 49, Part 192) under the
jurisdiction of the State Public Utilities Commission.
5. Pipelines meeting the specifications of the California Pipeline Safety Act of 1981
or those operating under franchise granted by the City of Los Angeles.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be construed as
defined in this section unless it shall be apparent from the context that they have a
different meaning:
Instrument Piping – Any pipe or fitting used to connect instruments to main pipe, or to
other instruments or apparatus, or to measuring equipment.
Low Melting Point Materials – Any material or alloy which melts at a relatively low
temperature including, but not limited to, copper, brass, bronze and aluminum.
A. The materials used in pipe, valves and fittings shall be compatible with the
commodity to be handled and shall be designed to withstand the working pressures and
structural stresses to which they may be subjected.
A. Malleable iron pipe and fittings shall not be used in systems designed to operate
at temperatures in excess of 500°F. or at pressures in excess of 400 psig.
B. Cast iron pipe and fittings shall not be used in systems designed to operate at
temperatures in excess of 300°F. or at pressures in excess of 400 psig.
C. Low melting point materials shall not be used in systems designed to operate at
temperatures in excess of 400°F.
D. Plastic pipe and fittings shall not be used at temperatures or pressures which the
Chief determines would constitute a fire hazard.
The materials set forth in this section shall not be permitted in aboveground systems
used for the transfer of the flammable or toxic materials, nor in aboveground systems
which the Chief determines may be subjected to severe fire exposure.
EXCEPTION:
The use of cast iron, nodular iron, or malleable iron for pumps, compressors, turbines,
heat exchangers, meters, and similar special equipment conventionally served by piping
systems is not prohibited when such materials are recognized under the manufacturer’s
specifications and the equipment is acceptable to the Chief.
C. Low melting point materials in sizes more than one-half inch (nominal diameter.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. In liquefied flammable gas piping for domestic and industrial fuel systems, the
use of bronze or brass valves in sizes not exceeding 3/4 inch nominal pipe size in liquid
phase service is permitted.
2. The use of bronze or brass valves in sizes not exceeding three inch nominal pipe
size on gas phase service is permitted, provided that where such valves are used, there
shall be a steel shutoff valve at the container when the capacity of that container is 1200
gallons or greater.
The methods of fabricating piping systems used for conveying flammable and
combustible liquids or toxic materials in aboveground locations or where the Chief
determines systems may be subjected to severe fire exposure, are restricted as hereinafter
set forth:
A. Systems designed to operate at pressures of 150 to 300 psig shall not use
threaded pipe and fittings larger than two inches (nominal) in diameter.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. A threaded connection not greater than three inches (nominal) size may be used
for the first fitting adjacent to a liquefied flammable gas container.
2. Threaded connections for accessory piping when same is furnished as part of the
manufacturer’s assembly of equipment such as pumps, compressors, and similar special
equipment.
3. Threaded connections may be used in systems in oil well drilling and producing
areas in locations where hazards to persons or property are at a minimum or where the
Chief determines welding is not practical.
B. Flexible type coupling devices employing packed sleeves or collars, or which are
dependent upon the friction characteristics of combustible materials for mechanical
continuity of piping, are prohibited unless approved by the Chief.
B. When such lines lead into buildings, anti-siphon valves shall be installed at the
highest point in the supply line where it leaves the top of the tank. Approved substitute
protection may be provided for highly volatile liquids.
NOTE:
When secondary containment is other than double wall pipe, and is subject to water or
other liquid intrusion, a means of detection and removal shall be provided. This removal
system shall also prevent uncontrolled removal of this water and provide for a means of
analyzing the removed water for hazardous substance contamination and a means of
disposing of the water, if so contaminated, at an authorized disposal facility.
A. Suction delivery systems shall be provided with approved product line leak
detection and be installed according to Sec. 57.31.45, except for product line secondary
containment.
B. Pressure delivery systems shall be provided with approved product line leak
detection and installed according to Sec. 57.31.46, except for product line secondary
containment.
A. All piping, related equipment, and supports for both underground and
aboveground applications where subject to external corrosion shall be fabricated from
noncorrosive materials, be coated, or be provided with corrosion protection by one of the
following methods:
B. Dissimilar metallic parts which promote galvanic action shall not be joined
together.
A. Piping shall be run as directly as practical, and provisions shall be made for
expansion, contraction, jarring, vibration, settling, and physical damage. Where corrosion
is a factor, underground piping shall be corrosion resistant or protected against corrosion.
B. Where tubing systems are allowed they shall be assembled using approved
fittings. If fittings are of the socket type, they shall be brazed with silver brazing alloy or
similar filler metal having a melting point of 1,000° F. or more.
C. All threaded joints and connections shall be made up tight with an approved pipe
dope sealing compound.
D. All piping, before being covered, enclosed, or placed in use, shall be tested
independently from the tank. Piping shall not show a drop in pressure when
hydrostatically or pneumatically tested to 150 percent of the working pressure and is
pressurized for not less than 30 minutes.
Where necessary to the public safety, valves shall be provided to permit proper
emergency control for piping systems at each independent element of use therein. The
Chief may require piping systems to be equipped with block valves at such locations as
may be deemed essential to the public safety.
Every gravity flow pipe leading out of any tank shall be equipped with a manually
operated shutoff valve at or near such tank, and there shall be no branch or connection to
any such gravity flow pipe between such shutoff valve and such tank except a bypass line
equipped with a check valve or a relief valve.
When dikes are provided to contain spins from tanks, every gravity flow line from the
tank to outside the dike shall be provided with a valve located outside of dike.
Each connection to a tank through which liquid can normally flow shall be provided
with an internal or external valve.
Tanks for the storage of hazardous materials in liquid form inside buildings shall be
provided with either:
C. An approved device on each liquid transfer connection below the liquid level
that shall provide a quick cut-off of flow in the event of fire.
SEC. 57.39.30. TRANSFERRING BY PUMPS.
E. Pumps shall be safely located and housed in the open or in fire resistive or
noncombustible structures. Motors used to pump contents from tanks shall not be located
beneath such tanks.
A. All underground piping in connection with underground tanks shall comply with
the following:
2. Piping shall be covered with at least one foot of earth or four inches of earth and
four inches of concrete except for necessary riser pipes.
4. At any point of change from the vertical to the horizontal or from the horizontal
to the vertical, there shall be installed an approved flex connector assembly.
B. Fill pipes of underground tanks shall not exceed eight inches inside diameter and
shall be kept closed with a tight-fitting cap. Every fill opening shall be located in a fill
box outside of buildings except openings for underground waste oil tanks used in
connection with public garages or auto fueling stations inside buildings. Fill openings
inside buildings shall be equipped in a manner to prevent escape of vapors to the inside of
the buildings.
SEC. 57.39.32. CONTROLS, METERS, AND GAUGES.
A. Heating coils using steam or other heat-transfer agents shall be protected from
mechanical damage and be equipped with adequate pressure and temperature controls.
Liquid level and temperature limit controls are required where necessary, as follows:
Glass gauge fittings on tanks shall have a melting point not less than that of steel
unless protected by a water spray or sprinkler system. Glass gauge fittings shall be
equipped with automatic ball checks.
Location and installation of electrical pumps, motors, and other electrical equipment,
when used with Class I, II, or IIIA liquids, shall conform to the requirements for
electrically hazardous areas as specified in Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
DIVISION 40
GASHOLDERS AND GASHOLDER SYSTEMS
Section
57.40.01 Scope.
Location of Gasholders
57.40.11 Separations.
57.40.22 Supervision.
1. Flammable gases;
2. Toxic gases;
3. Oxidizing gases; or
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
B. Gasholder systems shall include gasholders, piping, valves, and fittings, safety
controls, and all other appurtenant equipment used in connection therewith.
All devices which are used in connection with gasholder systems shall be of a type
and construction suitable for their proposed use. The Chief shall approve devices upon
satisfactory evidence that they are designed and constructed for safe operation. The Chief
shall classify, as approved, devices that have been approved, listed, or labeled by any
approved testing agency.
The construction of gasholders shall comply with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 38.
LOCATION OF GASHOLDERS
Every Gasholder shall be located outside of a building, except that small gasholders of
not more than 500 cubic foot capacity used for testing purposes may be located inside of
a building.
Unless otherwise provided in this article, gasholders used for the storage of
flammable, toxic, or oxidizing gases shall be separated from buildings, adjacent property
lines which may be built upon, streets, alleys, public ways, aboveground flammable
liquid storage tanks, and other similar gasholders in accordance with the distances set
forth in Table 40-A, in relation to the diameter of the gasholder.
No open flame or flame producing device shall be located within 25 feet of any
gasholder used for the storage of flammable materials.
TABLE 40-A
Required Separation
Minimum Required Separation
Maximum Required Separation
Distance from buildings & adjacent property lines which may be built upon
1/2 diameter of gasholder
10 feet
50 feet
Distance from above-ground flammable liquid storage tanks & other similar gasholders
1/2 diameter of tank or gasholder whichever is the largest
5 feet
25 feet
Every gasholder, aboveground piping, and fittings adjacent thereto shall be properly
surrounded by adequate fencing and gates that will prevent access by unauthorized
persons.
Every gasholder shall be maintained in a safe operating condition at all times and shall
be kept in a state of good repair.
SEC. 57.40.21. GASHOLDER FULLY INFLATED.
Caution shall be exercised when gasholders are fully inflated or nearly so as to prevent
blowing, especially if the ambient atmospheric temperature is rising.
The operation and maintenance of all gasholders shall be under the supervision of
qualified persons designated by the responsible operating official.
B. Before workmen are allowed to enter a gasholder removed from service and
purged with inert gas, the inert gas shall be purged with air. While the interior of a purged
gasholder is being worked on, a continuous and adequate circulation of outside air shall
be maintained through the gasholder by means of fans or other devices.
The above requirements shall not be necessary with workmen using self-contained
breathing apparatus or supplied-air hose masks.
C. Upon returning a purged gasholder to service, the air shall be purged therefrom
with inert gases before any flammable gas having a flammable range greater than 25
percent is allowed to re-enter the gasholder.
All ground areas within 25 feet of any gasholder containing a flammable gas shall be
maintained clear of any dry grass, weeds, and hazardous refuse.
At least once each year, every gasholder shall be given a general external inspection to
determine corrosion, paint condition, indications of leaks, guide roller clearances, and
proper operation of all equipment.
After a gasholder has been in service for a period not to exceed 10 years, and at
intervals not exceeding 10 years thereafter, a complete and thorough external inspection
shall be made and reported upon by qualified persons.
If, as a result of the external inspection, the inspector certifies that the condition of the
gasholder is such that an internal inspection is advisable, the gasholder shall be removed
from service and a complete and thorough internal inspection made.
The person or persons making such inspections shall submit a complete report of the
condition of the gasholder to the owner of the gasholder and at the same time forward a
copy to the Fire Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to gasholders owned and operated by
public utilities. Such gasholders are inspected in accordance with the requirements of the
Public Utilities Commission of the State of California.
Placards designed and constructed in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall
be conspicuously posted on at least two sides of every gasholder containing flammable,
toxic, or oxidizing gases.
DIVISION 41
PORTABLE CONTAINER SYSTEMS
Section
57.41.01 Scope.
57.41.02 Definitions.
57.41.06 Vaporizers.
57.41.10 Piping.
57.41.24 Maintenance.
1. Flammable materials;
2. Toxic materials;
3. Oxidizing materials; or
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be construed as
defined in this section, unless it is apparent from the context that they have a different
meaning:
Manifold – The piping, valves, regulators and the fittings used for interconnecting
two or more portable containers into a common pipe system.
Portable Container – Any low-pressure tank or any pressure vessel capable of being
readily moved from place to place and not fixed in place.
All devices which are used in connection with portable container systems regulated
hereunder shall be of a type and construction suitable for their intended use and approved
by the Chief. The Chief shall approve devices upon satisfactory evidence that they are
designed and constructed for safe operation. The Chief shall classify as approved those
devices that have been approved, listed, or labeled by any approved testing agency.
For the purpose of this division, a portable container shall be considered to be emptied
when all liquid, if any, has been removed from the container and the container has been
de-pressured to 0.5 psig or less at ambient temperature.
Vaporizers for liquid or liquefied materials shall comply with the requirements set
forth in Division 42 of this article.
PIPING, VALVES AND FITTINGS
All connections to portable containers shall have manually operated shut-off valves
located as close to the vessel as practicable except:
2. Connections used only for filling may be fitted with one double or two single
back-flow check valves.
3. Connections used only for filling containers used for liquefied materials may be
fitted with a combination back-flow valve and excess flow check valve.
4. Other devices on containers used for liquefied materials which are so constructed
that outward flow of container contents shall not exceed that passed by a No. 54 drill size
opening.
Whenever portable pressure vessels are used for flammable or toxic liquefied
materials, all liquid and vapor connections which require a shut-off valve as set forth in
Section 57.41.11 shall, in addition to such shut-off valve, be fitted with an internal valve,
or an excess flow check valve, or a back-flow check valve, except that the requirements
of this section shall not apply if the orifice size of the valve required by 57.41.11 does not
exceed five-sixteenths inch inside diameter for vapor withdrawal and one-eighth inch
inside diameter for liquid withdrawal, and if an approved pressure reducing regulator is
attached to the outlet of the shut-off valve required by Section 57.41.11, either directly or
by means of an approved flexible connection.
A. Safety relief valve shall be installed in compliance with the conditions prescribed
by the L.A.F.D. Standard under which such container was designed and constructed.
B. Use outlets for flammable gases used in conjunction with oxygen or other similar
oxidizing material shall be provided with one of the following:
The valve or regulator shall not be required when the shut-off valve required under
Subsection A of this section is of the nonreturn flow design.
A. Valves, regulators, gauging devices, and other portable pressure vessel accessory
equipment shall be protected against physical damage while such portable pressure vessel
is in storage or transit.
B. Safety valves and other devices for the protection of openings in any container
constructed in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19 shall, whenever possible, be
installed inside the shell of the vessel in such a manner that should the exterior portions
be sheared off, the protective device shall remain operable.
A. Hose shall only be used in connection with transfer of materials into or out of
portable containers, or at the point of use where a flexible connection is needed for a
service outlet.
B. Hose and hose connections shall be suitable for the specific gas or vapor they are
used with.
D. Hose shall be inspected frequently for leaks, burns, worn places, loose
connections or other defect which may render the hose unfit for service. Defective
portions of hose shall be discarded.
E. Hose shall be designed for a bursting pressure of not less than five times the
design pressure of the portable container system to which it is attached.
F. Hose used for transferring liquefied materials from portable pressure vessels
shall be equipped with an excess flow valve or the equivalent on the intake end of the
hose.
G. Hose shall be equipped with a suitable shut-off valve at the discharge end.
A. The design of, and materials for, stationary manifolds shall be suitable for the
gases and liquids with which they are to be used.
B. Stationary manifolds shall be designed for a rupture strength of five times the
maximum pressure to which the connected container will be subjected at 115° F., but in
no case more than 10,000 psig, nor less than 1,000 psig for nonliquefied material nor less
than 500 psig for liquefied materials.
D. Stationary manifolds shall be tested and shall be gas tight at the pressure at
which the manifold will be operated.
F. No person shall use a manifold or appurtenant equipment for any gas or liquid
other than that for which it was designed.
G. Pig tails or other approved flexible connectors shall be used to connect cylinders
to the manifold header.
A. Except for atmospheric gases and inert gases each container lead shall be
attached to the manifold header through a back-flow check valve, and a manually
operated shut-off valve.
E. Every manifold used for gases which are flammable or nonstable shall be
equipped with an approved flashback arrestor.
TABLE 41-A
EXEMPT QUANTITIES
Type of Material
Quantity
Flammable Gases
3,000 cubic feet
Toxic Gases
400 cubic feet
Oxidizing Gases
6,000 cubic feet
Liquefied Gases
60 gallons
The provisions of this section shall only apply to manifolds for containers of
flammable or toxic materials. ‘Capacity refers to the total aggregate capacity of all
containers which may be connected to the supply side of the manifold.
B. Every manifold within a building, having a capacity in excess of two times the
amounts shown in Table 41-A shall be located in a Hazardous Materials Room having no
openings to other portions of the building, or as provided in Subsection C of this section.
C. A manifold for flammable materials located within a building and having a
capacity exceeding the amounts shown in Table 41-A shall be located in an H-1
Occupancy.
D. Every fixed manifold outside of any building shall be located not less than ten
feet from buildings, property lines which may be built upon, streets, alleys, or public
ways.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. Manifolds may be erected closer than ten feet to streets, alleys or public ways
provided they are separated therefrom by approved barrier walls.
E. Every fixed manifold entirely outside of any building shall be located not less
than ten feet from any opening into any building.
Each manifold system and the piping connected thereto shall be inspected yearly by a
qualified installer or representative of the gas supplier and certified free of defects. Such
certification shall be in writing, and these records shall be open to examination by the
Chief.
A. In any area where portable pressure vessels are stored, adequate mechanical or
gravity ventilation shall be provided to prevent accumulation of gas or vapors.
B. Unless stored in locations where they are not apt to be knocked over or damaged,
portable containers shall be secured in a manner approved by the Chief. This shall be
done by means of chains, cables, or other noncombustible devices.
D. Oil, grease or other oxidizable materials shall be kept away from oxygen
cylinders.
The provisions of this section shall only apply to containers of flammable or toxic
material located within buildings. ‘Capacity refers to the total aggregate capacity of all
portable containers within the building but not including those which may be in a
Hazardous Materials Room.
B. Unless stored in locations where they are not apt to be knocked over or damaged,
portable containers shall be adequately secured in a proper position. Where necessary,
this shall be done by means of chains, cables, or other noncombustible devices.
Portable containers with steel runners or skids attached may be used as storage vessels
for flammable materials in connection with construction projects, the drilling of oil wells,
or similar uses, provided the total volumetric capacity of such containers does not exceed
2275 gallons or two containers in number for any one location. The temporary
installation, maintenance, and use of such vessels shall require a Special Permit for a
period not to exceed 180 days and the installation shall be in accordance with the
following:
A. Skid tanks shall be located and maintained outside any building and in
accordance with the provisions of Table 42-A relative to the distance required between
storage vessels and buildings, property lines, streets, pits, or basements. For the purpose
of this section, an oil well cellar shall not be deemed to be a pit. At multiple well sites for
drilling or producing oil or gas, these spacing requirements may be modified, as approved
by the Chief, when limitations of ground area or the arrangement of facilities makes strict
compliance impractical.
B. Such portable containers shall be located on firm earth capable of bearing the
weight of the vessel when fully loaded, or pads of wood, concrete or masonry shall be
provided to adequately secure and support the container. The bottom of the skids shall be
not less than two inches nor more than 12 inches below the outside bottom of the vessel.
Skids or lugs for attachment of skids shall be secured to the vessel in accordance with the
standard under which the vessel is designed and built to withstand loading in any
direction equal to four times the weight of the vessel and attachments when filled to the
maximum permissible loaded weight equal to not less than 60 percent of the water weight
of the vessel.
E. Piping connections to any skid tank shall be sufficiently flexible to minimize the
possibility of any breakage or leakage of connections if the vessel settles, moves, or is
otherwise displaced.
F. Skid tanks shall not be transported while containing any Liquefied Flammable
Gas, except as provided in Division 44 of this article.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where portable containers
containing such materials are stored or used, or within such area if no entrance is clearly
defined.
B. In addition, whenever flammable materials, oxidizing materials, or toxic
materials are processed, stored, or used in quantities requiring a Permit under Division 4
of this article, appropriate signs shall be posted indicating the hazard of the material.
Such signs shall be conspicuously posted at any location within a building and at any
location within an area outside a building where such materials are processed, stored or
used, and shall be conspicuously lettered on a contrasting background with letters at least
three inches high. Every such sign shall include the words indicating the contents of the
containers or other wording required by the Chief.
A. No person shall fill any portable container with any material for which it was not
designed, nor shall any person fill any portable container beyond its rated capacity, nor
fill any unapproved portable container.
B. The transferring or dispensing of liquid or gas into any portable container shall
be performed only in a Hazardous Materials Room, in H-1 or H-2 Occupancies approved
for such use, or entirely outside of any building.
3. The liquid volume of any stored material shall be such that the vessel will not be
liquid full at a temperature at or below 130° F.
A. No person shall fill any portable container with two or more materials which are
capable of combining chemically.
B. No person shall fill any portable container with any material which is
noncompatible with the material previously contained therein, until the container has
been thoroughly cleaned and purged.
A. No person shall fill any portable container with a liquid or liquefied material
except by an approved method of weighing or a liquid level gauging device of approved
design. Transfer shall be done only by pressure differential, pumping or gravity.
Sections 57.41.41, 57.41.42, and 57.41.43 of this division are not intended to apply to
sampling, testing, or related handling and equipment used either in the field or laboratory,
for purposes of analysis or examination where same is conducted by qualified persons
using suitable special equipment.
DIVISION 42
STATIONARY CONTAINER SYSTEMS
Section
General
57.42.01 Scope
57.42.02 Definitions.
Operation of Containers
GENERAL
1. Flammable materials;
2. Toxic materials;
3. Oxidizing materials; or
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
EXCEPTION:
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be construed as
defined in this section, unless it shall be apparent from the context that they have a
different meaning:
Stationary Container – Any low-pressure tank or any pressure vessel fixed in place
and not capable of being readily moved from place to place. Whenever the
word ‘container is used in this division, it shall mean ‘stationary container’.
Vaporizer – A device for converting liquid to vapor by means other than atmospheric
heat transfer through the surface of the container.
All devices which are used in connection with stationary container systems regulated
herein shall be of a type and construction suitable for their intended use. The Chief shall
approve devices upon satisfactory evidence that they are designed and constructed for
safe operation. The Chief shall classify as approved those devices that have been
approved, listed, or labeled by any approved testing agency.
A. The minimum design pressure for containers used for the storage of liquid or
liquefied materials shall be dependent upon the vapor pressure of the stored material and
upon the volume/surface ratio of the vessel as set forth in this section.
1. When the volume/surface ratio is equal to or less than 1.0, the design pressure
shall not be less than the vapor pressure (in psig) of the stored material at 115° F.
2. When the volume surface/ratio is two or more, the design pressure shall be not
less than the vapor pressure (in psig) of the stored material at 100° F.
3. When the volume/surface ratio is greater than one but less than two, the design
pressure shall not be less than the straight line interpolation between that required by
paragraphs one and two of this subsection.
B. The design pressure for containers used for the storage of nonliquefied gaseous
materials hall be such as to allow for the heating of the contents to a gas temperature of
130° F.
C. The minimum design pressure for containers used for processing shall be not less
than 100 percent of the operating pressure (in psig at the operating temperature.)
D. When a pressure vessel is used for both storage and processing, the minimum
design pressure shall be not less than the maximum design pressure required under this
section.
B. Warning signs for such containers shall be posted in accordance with the
requirements for Subchapter 1 (Unfired Pressure Vessel Safety Orders) of Chapter 4
(Division of Industrial Safety) of Part 1 of Title 8 of the California Administrative Code.
10 Feet
PROTECTED2
UNPROTECTED
575 Gallons3
10 Feet
25 Feet
More Than
But Not Over
575
2,000
25 Feet4
25 Feet4
50 Feet
2,000
30,000
37.5 Feet
50 Feet
75 Feet
30,000
70,000
50 Feet
75 Feet
100 Feet
70,000
90,000
75 Feet
100 Feet
150 Feet
90,000
200,000
100 Feet
150 Feet
200 Feet
4. The above distance requirements may be reduced to not less than ten feet for a
protected, or 25 feet for an unprotected single container of 1,200 gallons water capacity
or less, providing such a container is at least 25 feet from any other container of more
than 125 gallons water capacity.
A. Containers having a capacity of not more than 30,000 gallons shall be separated
from every other container, tank, or gasholder regulated by this article by distance not
less than set forth in Table 42-B.
C. The minimum separation between liquefied flammable gas containers and any
aboveground atmospheric tank of flammable or combustible liquids shall be 25 feet.
Suitable means shall be taken to prevent the accumulation of flammable or combustible
liquids under any adjacent liquefied flammable gas container such as by diking, diversion
curbs, or grading. The minimum separation between a container and the center line of the
dike surrounding flammable or combustible liquid tanks shall be 10 feet. When dikes or
curbs are used, no liquefied flammable gas container shall be located within the diked
area.
TABLE 42-B
SEPARATION BETWEEN STORAGE CONTAINERS
Capacity in Gallons
Minimum Distance
Between Containers
Containers shall be grouped when an installation consists of more than six containers
or when the total storage capacity exceeds 200,000 gallons. Each group shall consist of
not more than six containers and shall have an aggregate capacity of not more than
200,000 gallons. Every such group shall be separated from other groups or from single
containers by a distance of not less than 25 feet.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Containers separated from each other by a distance of not less than 20 feet.
1. Installed not less than two feet below the surface of the natural grade level; or
C. The exterior surfaces of every such container shall be covered with an approved
corrosion resistant coating material applied in an approved manner.
D. Every such vessel shall be set on a six-inch thick bedding of water-washed sand
(beach sand shall not be used) free from soil, rock, or gravel. Before any back filling is
done, the position of the vessel and the sand bedding shall be approved by the Chief.
After such approval, the excavation shall be back filled with the same quality water-
washed sand in such a manner that the sand back fill on the sides, ends, and the top of
such vessel shall be at least six inches thick.
E. Every opening for the attachment of piping and appurtenant equipment shall be
in the top of such vessel. No pipe or equipment connection to any such vessel shall be
buried underground, but shall be aboveground, connected to a dome or manway which is
an integral part of the vessel, or shall be in a valve pit constructed as provided in
Subsection F of this section.
3. Containers 20 feet or more in length, one test plate for each 10 feet of length,
placed on alternate sides at 10-foot intervals.
C. The enclosure formed by such collision and security fence shall be maintained
free of all material not related to the operation of the enclosed installation.
D. The collision fence and the security fence may be constructed as one unit if the
design of such a fence will adequately serve both purposes and is located to provide the
minimum clearance required for a collision fence.
E. The Chief may approve the omission of the collision fence, the security fence or
both, or portions thereof, where, by such omission the container and appurtenances will
not be exposed to damage from moving vehicles or other heavy objects or tampering by
unauthorized persons. The terms of any such approval shall be in writing and shall
become a condition of the permit authorizing the installation, maintenance, and use of
such container and appurtenances.
All connections to containers shall have manually operated shut-off valves located as
close to the container as practicable.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. Other devices on containers used for liquefied materials which are so constructed
that the outward flow of container contents shall not exceed that passed by a No. 54 drill
size opening.
3. Groups of vessels in process units which for reasons of process control are
treated as a unit.
4. Where the direction of flow is into the tank only, the connection may be equipped
with a double back-check or two single back-check valves installed within the shell of the
tank, e.g., filling connections or pump bypass.
Whenever storage containers, other than at places which fall under the provisions of
Section 57.01.28-B of this article, are used for flammable or toxic liquefied materials,
they shall be equipped as provided in this section.
A. All liquid connections which require a shut-off valve as set forth in Section
57.42.20 shall, in addition to such shut-off valve, be fitted with a manually operated
internal valve.
B. All vapor connections which require a shut-off valve as set forth in Section
57.42.20 shall, in addition to such shut-off valve, be fitted with a manually operated
internal valve, or excess-flow check valve, or a back-flow check valve.
C. Internal valves, excess-flow check valves, and back-flow check valves which are
installed in accordance with Subsections A or B of this section shall comply with the
following requirements of this subsection:
1. Every internal valve shall be provided with a fusible section which will cause the
valve to close automatically in case of fire. The fusible section shall melt at a temperature
not in excess of 220° F.
2. Every excess-flow check valve shall close automatically at the rated flow of
vapor specified by the manufacturer. The selection of excess-flow check valve capacity
shall be in conformance with the design requirements of the system. Every excess flow
valve shall be designed with a bypass, not to exceed a No. 60 drill size opening to allow
equalization of pressures when closed.
3. Every excess-flow and back-flow check valve shall either be installed inside the
container to prevent mechanical injury; or, if installed so as to be accessible from outside
the container, they shall be designed so that an external blow cannot shear off vital parts
so as to permit escape of the container contents.
1. Every gauging device that requires bleeding of the product to the atmosphere,
such as the rotary tube, fixed tube, and slip tube, shall be so designed that the bleed valve
maximum opening is no larger than a No. 54 drill size, unless provided with an excess-
flow check valve.
2. Every gauging device shall be clearly marked to indicate the maximum level to
which the vessel may be filled for the material contained. This level shall be based on the
volume requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25, assuming a product temperature of
40° F. for aboveground storage containers and 50° F. for underground storage containers.
3. Column type gauges shall be equipped with positive shut-off valves at the top
and bottom, and in addition, shall be equipped with means for automatically preventing
continuous flow in case of breakage.
E. Every storage container shall have every inlet and outlet connection clearly
labeled to designate whether it is connected to the vapor space or the liquid space. Labels
may be on valves, except that labels shall not be required on connections to safety valves,
pressure gauges, or liquid level gauging devices.
C. Unless otherwise approved by the Chief, the heat transfer rate used to compute
the capacity of supplemental pressure relieving devices required under Section 57.42.22-
B shall be 20,000 B.T.U.’s per hour per square foot of the maximum inside wetted
surface of the container.
D. Approved, pilot operated, diaphragm type, low pressure regulators may be used
as pressure-relieving devices on vessels having a maximum allowable working pressure
not exceeding 10 psig.
F. Pressure relief devices shall be set to open at a pressure not in excess of the
maximum allowable working pressure of the container. If the capacity is supplied by
more than one valve or device, only one valve needs to be set to open at a pressure not
exceeding the maximum allowable working pressure of the container; the additional
valves may be set to open at a higher pressure, but not to exceed 105 percent of the
maximum allowable working pressure.
G. If separate pressure relief devices are provided to comply with the requirement
of Subsection B of this section, they shall be set to operate at a pressure not in excess of
110 percent of the maximum allowable working pressure.
H. Rupture discs are prohibited except when installed upstream from other
pressure-relieving devices, or where the nature of the service makes spring-loaded relief
valves unreliable and the discharge from such rupture disc would not constitute a hazard.
I. Pressure-relieving devices, rupture discs in series with such devices, and stop
valves in series with pressure-relieving devices shall be installed as provided in L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 19.
J. The discharge from pressure relief valves or systems shall be at a safe location.
The following shall be considered minimum requirements:
1. Open discharges shall be so placed and directioned that the outflow is directed
away from the container and will not create a hazard over walkways, stairways, or
operating platforms. Discharge shall be vertically upwards whenever possible.
2. The point of discharge shall be not less than 10 feet above the adjacent ground
level, nor less than two feet above the surface of the container.
EXCEPTION:
Every container which may be subjected to vacuum conditions shall be equipped and
maintained with one or more vacuum relief devices, unless constructed to withstand full
vacuum in accordance with the requirements of the Standard under which the container is
constructed.
A. Every pressure vessel used to contain flammable material and which has a
greater than 2,000 gallon water capacity shall be equipped with an approved pressure
gauge. Such pressure gauge shall be graduated to at least twice the design pressure of the
vessel.
The filling pipe inlet connections for tanks filled on consumer’s premises shall not be
located less than 15 feet from any opening into or under a building where such opening is
below the level of the filling connections; and in no case shall the filling pipe inlet
connection be located less than 10 feet from any building, street, or alley.
A. Storage containers for liquid materials shall not be directly heated with open
flames.
A. The device that supplies the necessary heat for producing steam, hot water, or
other heating medium shall be separated from all rooms containing vaporizers, pumps,
and central gas mixing devices by a vapor-tight one-hour fire-resistive separation.
C. A shut-off valve shall be installed on the liquid line to the vaporizer unit outside
of any vaporizer room or building.
A. Every direct fired vaporizer shall be marked with the name of the manufacturer,
the rated B.T.U. input to the burners, the area of the heat exchange surface of the
vaporizer in square feet, the outside surface area in square feet, and the maximum
vaporizing capacity in gallons per hour.
B. Direct fired vaporizers shall be separated from storage vessels, buildings, streets,
and adjacent property lines that may be built upon in accordance with Table 42-C.
TABLE 42-C
Less Than 25
25 Feet
5 Feet
25 – 100
40 Feet
5 Feet
D. Direct fired vaporizers shall be provided with a means for shutting off the fuel to
the main burner and pilot from outside the vaporizer housing.
OPERATION OF CONTAINERS
A. No person shall charge any liquid material or liquefied material into any storage
container unless the design pressure of the container, in relationship to the vapor pressure
of the material being charged into the container, is at least equal to that set forth in
Subsection A of Section 57.42.05.
B. No person shall charge any gaseous material into any storage container at a
pressure in excess of the design pressure. When the gas temperature is less than 130°F.,
the charging pressure shall be such that the design pressure will not be exceeded at a gas
temperature of 130°F.
C. The liquid portion of any stored material must not completely fill the storage
container at or below 130°F.
D. For mixtures, the liquid portion of the gas, if any, plus any additional liquid or
solid, must not completely fill the container at 130°F.
A. No person shall load storage containers with two or more materials which are
noncompatible.
Where the relief of excess pressure from process vessels might result in undue hazard
to persons or property through excessive release of flammable or toxic materials, the
Chief may require the operating pressure of process vessels to be a suitable margin below
the design pressure. In determining the required margin, due consideration shall be given
to the operating characteristics of the processes and of the facilities for relieving excess
pressure. As an alternate thereto, the Chief may permit a system for safe disposal of
materials vented from the facilities for relieving excess pressure.
DIVISION 43
SPECIAL VESSEL SYSTEMS
Section
57.43.01 Scope.
57.43.07 Insulation.
57.43.11 Gauges.
57.43.22 Dikes.
Refrigeration Equipment
57.43.32 Compressors.
57.43.33 Compressor Drives.
1. Flammable materials;
2. Toxic materials;
3. Oxidizing materials; or
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply
B. No person shall install or relocate any special vessel without first submitting
plans in triplicate to the Chief for approval as required by Division 5 of this article.
All devices which are used in connection with special vessel systems related
hereunder shall be of a type and construction suitable for their intended use. The
Department shall approve devices upon satisfactory evidence that they are designed and
constructed for safe operation. The Department shall classify as approved devices those
that have been approved, listed, or labeled by any approved testing agency.
Every refrigeration system shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of, and
shall be approved by the Building Department.
SEC. 57.43.05. SPECIAL VESSEL CONSTRUCTION.
A. Special vessels shall be of a type, design, and construction suitable for their
intended use. Special vessels shall be designed, constructed tested, and maintained in
accordance with the following Standards insofar as they are applicable:
B. When special vessels are not designed in compliance with the Standards listed in
Subsection A of this section, the design specifications shall be approved by the Chief.
The Chief may approve special vessels upon satisfactory evidence that they are designed
and constructed for safe operation. The following data shall be submitted to the
Department with the application for approval.
5. Design pressure, maximum operating pressure, and test pressure of the special
vessel.
C. If the special vessel is also a pressure vessel it shall not be placed in use unless it
has been approved by the Mechanical Bureau of the Building Department.
The design pressure of refrigerated special vessels shall exceed the operating pressure
by a sufficient amount to allow for a 24-hour complete shutdown of the refrigeration
system.
E. All piping subject to low temperatures shall be insulated. The insulation shall
have sufficient thickness to prevent the formation of frost on the outside.
1. At an entrance to any building where portable and stationary special vessels are
stored or used, and at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where portable and stationary
special vessels are stored or used, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
B. All special vessels shall have the appropriate designation for the contents
(e.g., “LIQUEFIED HYDROGEN” or “LIQUEFIED OXYGEN”) painted on two sides in
letters not less than three inches high on a contrasting background.
All connections to the special vessel shall have manually operated shutoff valves
located as close to the special vessel as practicable except for safety-relief connections
and plug openings.
B. In determining the capacity of the pressure-relief device, the heat transfer to the
special vessel shall be based on heat transfer through the insulation with the temperature
outside of the insulation assumed to be not less than 1600° F.
1. Open discharges shall be so placed and directioned that the outflow is directed
away from the special vessel and will not create a hazard over walkways, stairways. or
operating platforms. Discharge shall be vertically upwards whenever possible.
2. The point of discharge shall be not less than 10 feet above the surrounding
ground level, nor less than two feet above the surface of the special vessel.
B. The capacity of the vacuum relief device shall be sufficient to compensate for the
maximum compressor displacement or the maximum volumetric liquid withdrawal rate,
whichever is the greater.
Special vessels regulated by this division shall be located in accordance with the
provisions of Division 42 of this article in the same manner as containers regulated by
Division 42.
D. Provisions shall be made to prevent the freezing of the soil beneath special
vessels resting on the ground if the operating temperature of the special vessel is below
32° F.
A. Every special vessel used for flammable materials shall be surrounded by a dike
not over six feet in height and having an impounding capacity not less than the capacity
of the largest special vessel enclosed therein.
REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT
The total refrigeration load shall be computed as the sum of the following:
1. Cooling the stored material from the maximum incoming temperature to storage
temperature.
2. Condensing of vapor returned during discharge operations of the refrigerated
special vessel.
3. Cooling recycle vapor from the special vessel when stored material is used as the
refrigerant.
More than one special vessel may be handled by the same refrigeration system.
A. The refrigeration system shall include at least two compressors, each of which
shall be capable of handling the refrigeration load imposed by Subsection A of Section
57.43.30. The total compressor capacity shall be not less than the total refrigeration load.
B. An alarm system to function before the pressure in the special vessel rises to the
design pressure.
D. Means shall be provided in each liquid line to stop liquid flow in the event the
storage pressure rises above the operating pressure.
SEC. 57.43.35. ACCUMULATOR VENT.
At the outlet of the condenser there shall be an accumulator equipped with a vent for
the elimination of non-condensables from the system. The vent shall be piped to a
suitable gas disposal system.
DIVISION 44
CARGO TANKS USED FOR LIQUEFIED AND COMPRESSED
GASES
Section
57.44.01 Scope.
57.44.10 Prohibition.
B. Flammable Gases
The provisions of this Division shall regulate the construction requirements for off-
highway cargo tanks, the approved storage and repair locations for cargo tanks when
parked, and the filling and dispensing requirements for cargo tanks. This Division shall
not regulate the design and construction of cargo tanks regulated by the California
Highway Patrol pursuant to State Vehicle Code, Division 14.7 and the United States
Department of Transportation (D.O.T.).
When not in transport service, cargo tank vehicles shall be stored in the “M-1”, “M-
2”, or “M-3” Zones set forth in Article 2, Chapter I of the Municipal Code within fenced
enclosures and shall not be stored closer than 10 feet to any property line or public
sidewalk, nor shall the minimum distance from any cargo tank to the nearest rail from
any main railway line or other source of open flame, be less than 50 feet. No cargo tank
vehicle shall be stored or located closer to any building of non-fire resistive construction
than the distance shown in the following table:
Up to 500 Gallons
10 Feet
EXCEPTION:
Buildings located in the “M-l”, “M-2”, and “M-3” Zones set forth in Article 2,
Chapter I of the Municipal Code, which are constructed, approved, and used exclusively
for the storage of cargo tanks.
B. Any cargo tank containing liquefied flammable gas or any vehicle in connection
therewith may be repaired upon privately-owned premises located in “M-1”, “M-2”,
or “M-3” Zones, provided repairs do not involve the use of any open flame or other
device whose temperatures exceed 600 degrees Fahrenheit and provided further, that
cargo tanks shall at all times be at least 50 feet from any open flame. Repairs involving
the use of open flame shall he permitted only when all flammable vapors have first been
removed from cargo tanks.
No cargo tank vehicle shall be driven into, stored, or parked on any premises occupied
by or used as an assembly, institutional, educational or residential occupancy, trailer
camp, auto park or similar occupancy, except by Special Permit from the Chief.
A. Transfer hoses or manifold outlets for hose connections used with cargo tanks
shall not exceed two in number. The connection between the tank and the meter shall not
be considered as one of these outlets. Transfer hoses shall not be longer than 100 feet.
B. Each transfer hose shall be equipped with a shutoff valve at the discharge end.
Hose used for the transfer of liquid shall be equipped with an approved safety relief
valve.
C. Bleeding of piping systems and transfer hoses in other than approved locations is
prohibited.
One portable fire extinguisher having a 20B classification shall be installed and
maintained on every cargo tank vehicle.
Every cargo tank vehicle or other vehicle used to transport liquefied flammable gas
shall be clearly identified with a warning placard designed, constructed, and affixed as
specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25.
Vehicles equipped with a mobile fuel tank shall not be stored, parked, or maintained
in any building occupied or used as an institutional, educational, residential, or assembly
occupancy.
The transferring or dispensing of liquefied flammable gas into any tank or cylinder in
any building is prohibited except at a Liquefied Flammable Gas Cylinder Filling Plant in
a building approved for such use by the Chief, which is open on at least three sides,
constructed entirely of noncombustible material and used exclusively for the filling of
liquefied flammable gas cylinders or tanks.
The transferring or dispensing of liquefied flammable gas into any cylinder or tank on
the premises where consumed shall be accomplished only by a cargo tank equipped with
approved transfer apparatus. The dispensing of liquefied flammable gas into any
cylinders or tank by a cargo tank on any premises where not consumed is prohibited.
No cylinder or tank shall be filled within 25 feet of any building or house trailer.
The transferring of liquefied flammable gas from a cylinder, tank, cargo tank or
mobile fuel tank to another on any public street, sidewalk, alley, or public way is
prohibited, except by Special Permit from the Chief, or in an accident or emergency, by
verbal permission of the Fire Department officer in command at the location.
Where the service to any burner or appliance has been interrupted or shut off, no
person shall open any service system supply valve after having supplied, transferred, or
dispensed liquefied flammable gas into any cylinder, tank, or system, without first having
made certain that all burner, pilot, and appliance valves are turned off. When it cannot be
determined that all burner, pilot, and appliance valves are turned off, such person shall
leave the service system supply valve in a closed position and a notification tag shall be
attached to that valve advising that the supply valve is in the off position and all burner,
pilot, and appliance valves must be checked before the supply valve is opened.
The attendant or operator shall remain at the transfer connections continuously while
transferring liquefied flammable gas from the time that connections are first made until
connections are finally broken. During such period, both ends of the transfer or
dispensing hose and the cargo tank vehicle shall be frequently observed by the attendant
or operator.
57.45.01 Scope.
57.45.04 Piping.
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the design,
installation, maintenance, and testing of nonflammable medical gas systems when used
for medical purposes in noninstitutional facilities.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
B. The walls, floors, and ceilings of locations for systems of more than 2,000 cubic
feet total capacity (connected and in storage) separating the system location from other
occupancy in a building shall have a fire resistance rating of at least one hour. This
requirement shall also apply to a common wall or walls of a system location attached to a
building having other occupancy. The location shall be vented to the outside. If natural
venting is used, the vent opening or openings shall be a minimum of 72 square inches in
total area. Mechanical ventilation may be used.
C. Location for systems of 2,000 cubic feet or less capacity (connected and in
storage) shall be in a separate room or closet and need not be vented to outside. Doors to
such locations shall be provided with two louvered openings, one located six inches from
the top and the other six inches from the bottom of the door, having a minimum of 72
square inches in total area. Such locations shall be away from corridors and hallways.
A. A check valve shall be installed between each cylinder lead and the manifold
header.
B. The system, including cylinders and pressure regulators shall deliver gas at a
pressure of 50-55 psig. The system shaII have adequate capacity to maintain a minimum
delivery pressure of 50 psig at the maximum aggregate flow requirement of all use
points. Pressure regulators shall incorporate a spring-loaded pressure relief device.
C. Threaded connections between the regulators and the piping system shall be
noninterchangeable Iow pressure connections for medical gas complying with
Compressed Gas Association Pamphlet V-5, Diameter Index Safety System.
E. The supply system shall be turned off at the end of each day of operation.
C. All joints in the piping shall be made with silver brazing or other alloy exhibiting
a melting temperature in excess of 1000° F. to retain the integrity of the piping system.
EXCEPTIONS:
The use of flux is prohibited in all instances except those requiring the joining of
copper and brass or other dissimilar metals.
When cylinder supply storage is not readily accessible or the entry to the cylinder
storage room is on the exterior of the treatment facility, a manual shutoff valve accessible
inside of the treatment facility shall be installed downstream from main supply lines and
prior to first use point. This valve is for use in an emergency and shall be
labeled, “CAUTION, OXYGEN VALVE – NITROUS OXIDE VALVE – DO NOT
CLOSE EXCEPT IN EMERGENCY”.
D. Station outlets for ceiling installation shall be securely mounted and shall be the
male threaded type with internal check valve. Hose from ceiling outlets shall be Bureau
of Mines approved life-support rubber tubing, equipped with female couplers, of the
noninterchangeable type for oxygen and nitrous oxide. Hose shall not extend lower than
five feet above the floor.
A. An alarm system shall be provided to monitor the operation and condition of the
source of supply and the pressure in the main line of the medical gas system.
B. An automatic pressure switch shall be connected to the supply line which will
actuate a visible and audible alarm when line pressure drops approximately 20 percent
below or increases 20 percent above normal line pressure. The automatic pressure switch
shall be installed downstream of any main supply line valve. The alarm shall be installed
to be heard and seen at a specific location at which a person shall be continuously in
attendance during the time of operation of the facility.
A. Piping System: The gas content of medical gas piping systems shall be readily
identifiable by appropriate labeling identifying the name of the gas contained. Labeling
shall appear on the piping at intervals of not more than 20 feet and at least once in each
room and each story.
C. Station Outlets: Each outlet shall be legibly identified with the name of the gas
contained.
D. Pressure Gauges: Each gauge and manometer for medical gas piping systems
shall be legibly identified.
After installation of the piping, but before installation of the outlet valves and other
system components, the lines shall be blown clear by means of oil-free dry air or
nitrogen.
B. Pressure Testing:
2. After completing the testing of each section of the piping system, all of the
medical gas system shall be subjected to a 24-hour standing pressure test at 20 percent
above the normal operating line pressure. The test gas shall be oil-free dry air or nitrogen.
The main line shutoff valve shall be closed.
3. After the piping system is filled with test gas, the supply valve and all outlets
shall be closed and the source of test gas disconnected. The system shall remain leak-free
under such test conditions for 24 hours. When making the standing pressure test, the
only allowable pressure changes during the 24-hour test period shall be those caused by
variations in the ambient temperature around the piping system.
1. To determine that no cross connection to other piping systems exists, all systems
shall be reduced to atmospheric pressure.
2. All sources of test gas shall be disconnected from all of the systems with the
exception of the one system to be tested.
3. The system to be tested shall be pressurized with oil-free dry air or nitrogen to a
pressure of 50 psig.
5. The source of test gas shall be disconnected from the system tested and the
pressure of that system reduced to atmospheric.
6. Each additional piping system shall be tested using the same procedure.
7. Where a medical vacuum piping system is installed, the cross-connection testing
shall include that system with all other medical gas piping systems.
D. Purging:
1. After all medical gas piping systems have been tested, the source of test gas shall
be disconnected and the proper gas source of supply connected to each respective system.
Following this connection and pressurization, all outlets shall be opened in a progressive
order, starting nearest the source and completing the process of purge flushing at the
outlet farthest from the source.
2. Purge gas shall be allowed to impinge upon a white cloth material until no
evidence of discoloration is evident and the test gas used during the previous tests has
been removed from the piping systems.
Warning systems for each medical gas piping system shall be tested to insure that all
components function properly prior to placing the piping system in service. Permanent
records of these tests shall be maintained.
B. Each manifold system and the piping connected thereto shall be inspected yearly
by a qualified installer or representative of the gas supplier and shall be certified free of
defects. Such certification shall be in writing and these records shall be open to
examination by the Chief.
Medical gas cylinders in service or in storage shall be secured and located in a manner
that prevents falling or being knocked over. The provisions of Division 41 of this article
shall apply to location and storage of medical gas cylinders.
DIVISION 50
CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM
Section
No person shall use, process, produce, store, handle, or possess any cellulose nitrate
film except in approved lockers, cabinets, rooms, vaults, equipment or location.
No person shall sell, loan, give or release any cellulose nitrate film which is in a
hazardous condition due to age, deterioration, mechanical damage, improper splices or
any other cause, nor shall any person thread or use any cellulose nitrate film that is in
such condition in any projector or sound equipment on any premises at any time.
A. All cellulose nitrate film in storage, in transit, or not being worked upon, shall be
kept in approved closed containers.
B. Cellulose nitrate film not being processed, worked upon, used or transported,
shall be stored in accordance with Table 50-A.
TABLE 50-A
In a film locker
100 lbs.
In a film cabinet
1000 lbs.
In film vaults
Unlimited
No person shall install or maintain artificial heating equipment in any film vault.
No person shall install or maintain refrigeration equipment in any film vault, except
pipes or coils carrying the refrigerant may be installed therein when properly protected
from physical or mechanical damage.
All equipment in handling and processing rooms or areas shall be of a type meeting
accepted standards of the industry and shall be safe for its intended purpose.
A. No person shall smoke upon premises where cellulose nitrate film is being
handled, processed, or stored, except in specific locations approved by the Chief.
Approved smoking areas shall be plainly marked and “NO SMOKING” signs shall be
prominently posted throughout smoking restricted areas.
B. The main entrance to any room or building where such film is stored, processed,
or handled, and such other entrances as may be required by the Chief, shall be posted
with a placard designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58. In
addition, a sign bearing the words “CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM” in letters not less
than three inches high shall be posted adjacent to each film locker, cabinet or vault used
for storing cellulose nitrate film and at such other locations as may be required by the
Chief.
Scrap cellulose nitrate film shall be kept submerged under water in metal containers
with self-closing covers, and shall be kept separate from waste paper, safety film and all
other rubbish. It shall be collected from the work rooms at least once daily and stored in
approved containers in film vaults until safely disposed of.
B. All radiators, heating coils, and pipes shall be protected by substantial wire mesh
guards.
C. The use of portable space heaters is prohibited in any location where cellulose
nitrate film is used, processed, produced, stored, or handled.
Section
57.51.01 Scope.
57.51.03 Handling.
57.51.08 Storage.
The provisions of this division shall regulate the storage, handling. manufacturing, or
assembling, of articles containing hazardous plastic and which is classified
as “flammable” when tested in accordance with the method set forth in L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 43.
No person, firm, or corporation shall sell, offer for sale, or give away any toy, wearing
apparel, eyeglass frames, mirror frames, combs, utensils, furnishings, decorations, or any
other object which is fabricated of hazardous plastics.
EXCEPTION:
Hazardous plastics which are compounded with other materials in such a manner that
the final product is not a hazard to the user thereof.
The quantity of hazardous plastics in one work area shall not exceed that amount
necessary for the immediate job at hand or 50 pounds, whichever is the greater quantity.
Finished materials or products shall be removed from the work area at intervals sufficient
to prevent the accumulation of more than 50 pounds of raw materials and finished
products (in the aggregate) at a single work area at one time.
Work areas where hazardous plastics are handled in a dry state shall be separated by a
distance of not less than five feet from other such areas, or by a noncombustible or fire
resistive barricade so that a fire in one work area will not involve adjacent work areas.
All waste hazardous plastic scraps, chips, turnings, edgings, trimmings, and dust shall
be gathered up at frequent intervals and shall be stored in metal containers with self-
closing metal covers, which shall be removed from work areas at the close of each
working day. Until removed from the premises for final disposal, scrap materials which
have been removed from work areas shall be kept in an approved film cabinet or film
vault.
All buildings or portions of buildings in which more than 100 pounds of hazardous
plastics are exposed for use or in open storage shall be equipped with an automatic fire
protection system and portable fire extinguishers as required by the Chief.
1. At the entrance to any building used for storing, processing, or handling such
materials and at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building used for storing, processing,
or handling such materials, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
B. A sign bearing the common name of the plastic in letters not less than three
inches high shall be posted at any location within a building and at any location within an
area outside a building where such material is stored, processed, or handled and at such
other locations as may be required by the Chief.
DIVISION 52
COMBUSTIBLE METALS
Section
57.52.01 Scope.
Magnesium
The provisions of this division shall regulate the storage, handling, and use of
combustible metals. Included in this division are requirements regulating Permits, fire
protection, and other measures and general precautions relating to combustible metals.
Unless otherwise regulated by this division, compliance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 64 is
required.
MAGNESIUM
A. Location: Magnesium shall be stored only on the ground floor of one story
buildings or outside.
C. Inspection: All magnesium castings shall be inspected prior to storage to see that
they are clean and free from chips or fine particles.
The size of storage piles of magnesium articles, light castings, and sheets, in foundries
and processing plants shall not exceed 1,250 cubic feet and shall be separated by aisles
not less in width than one-half the height of the piles.
B. Melting Pots: Floors around melting units shall be of hard packed earth, hard
burned or vitreous paving block, or cast iron or steel plate laid in concrete, kept clean and
free of moisture. Furnace settings must be kept dry and free from iron scale.
Pots larger than 10 cubic feet capacity shall be located within impounding basins
capable of containing contents in event of pot failure.
D. Fuel Control: Fuel supply lines shall have clearly labeled remote valve controls.
D. Power Interlock: Power supply to machines shall be interlocked with (l) exhaust
air flow and (2) liquid pressure level or flow in such a way that improper functioning of
the dust removal and separator system will shut down the machine it serves.
G. Dust Disposal: Sludge from dust separators should be removed at least daily or
more frequently, as conditions warrant. Vented steel containers with tight fitting steel lids
of not over 50 pounds capacity each, shall be used to transport the collected sludge to a
place for safe disposal by approved methods. All containers used for magnesium sludge
or waste shall have conspicuous sign painted thereon to indicate their contents.
H. Other Metals: Machinery and equipment described in this subsection shall not be
used for processing ferrous metals.
I. Filters: Dust collection equipment shall not have obstructions that will allow
accumulation of dust in any part of the system other than the designed accumulator.
J. Sludge Pits: Sludge pits shall be arranged so as to be well ventilated to the outside
atmosphere at all times.
B. Pans: Wherever practicable, machines shall be provided with a pan to catch the
chips or turnings. The pan should be such that it can be readily withdrawn from under the
machine in case of fire. It should be accessible for chip removal, and for application of
extinguishing powder to control a fire.
The devices for heating of magnesium for drawing or spinning shall provide for
reliable means to prevent overheating. Trimmings shall be collected at frequent intervals
and placed in clean, dry, covered noncombustible containers. If such devices produce fine
particles, the provisions of Section 57.52.08 shall apply.
A. Magnesium chips, turnings and fines shall be removed from the pans under
machines and from any other places where they collect at such frequent intervals as may
be needed to prevent excessive accumulations, and always at the end of each day.
B. Magnesium fines shall be placed in covered, plainly labeled, clean, dry steel
containers and removed to an approved outside location, or to a detached scrap storage
building or to a special scrap storage room of fire-resistive construction. Such rooms or
buildings shall have explosion vents in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
E. Storage of magnesium fines in quantities greater than 1,000 cubic feet shall be
separated from all buildings, other than those used for magnesium scrap recovery
operations, by a distance of not less than 100 feet.
A. Portable fire extinguishers suitable for use in magnesium fires shall be provided
as required by Division 140 of this article.
A. Production:
2. Production shall be by the batch system, and each batch shall be limited to 50
pounds or less.
3. Production units designed to use air in connection with their operation shall be
installed with the pulverizer and cyclone directly connected with metal ducts of minimum
length.
1. Magnesium powder shall not be allowed to fall through chutes or spouts into
open bins or hoppers.
2. Hand or power trucks or carts shall be grounded and equipped with non-sparking
wheels. Power trucks shall be approved for use in hazardous locations as determined in
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code.)
C. Grinding Equipment:
1. Grinding wheels used for grinding magnesium shall not be used for grinding
other metals.
3. Automatically operated mills and screens shall be equipped with remote controls.
D. Storage. Magnesium powder shall be stored in a clean, dry, cool place in covered
bins or containers. The Chief may regulate the amount in storage commensurate with the
degree of hazard.
A. The areas where chips, turnings, or fines are produced or stored shall be kept
free from oily residue and combustible material.
B. Chips, turnings, and other fines shall be collected from the pans under machines
and from any other place where they collect at such frequent intervals as may be
necessary to prevent excessive accumulation and also at the end of each working day.
1. Titanium and zirconium chips, turnings, and fines shall be stored in covered steel
containers and limited to 50 pounds per container.
2. Titanium and zirconium chips, turnings, and fines shall be stored in an approved
outside location, or in a detached scrap-storage building, or in a special scrap-storage
room of fire-resistive construction. Such rooms or buildings shall be constructed in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
3. Titanium and zirconium chips, turnings, and fines shall be stored in piles one
container high with a total of 500 pounds maximum per pile.
4. Every pile shall be separated from every other pile by an aisle at least five feet
wide to facilitate the removal of containers.
B. Aluminum powder and/or paste shall not be stored in the same area as oxidizing
agents, flammable and combustible liquids, or combustible materials.
A. Only portable fire extinguishers suitable for use on Class D fires shall be used, in
accordance with Division 140 of this article.
Section
General Requirements
57.53.11 Conveyors.
57.53.13 Traps.
57.53.17 Ducts.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
B. The use of compressed air or other means to blow dust from ledges, walls, and
other areas which may create a dust explosion hazard shall not be permitted unless all
machinery in the area has been shut down and all sources of ignition removed.
D. Metallic dust shall be stored in tightly covered metal containers in a cool, dry
place.
EXCEPTION:
Storage bins or rooms equipped with explosion vents of sufficient area to release any
explosion to the outside atmosphere in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
SEC. 57.53.05. DUST-TIGHT ENCLOSURES.
All dust producing or dust agitating machinery, such as grinding mills and separators,
and all elevators, elevator legs, spouts, hoppers, and other conveyors shall be provided
with casings or enclosures maintained as nearly dust-tight as possible.
All machinery and equipment by which any explosive or flammable dust, waste,
grindings, wood filings, lint, litter, or trimmings are produced shall be permanently
grounded, and shall be equipped with an efficient, approved dust collection system which
shall maintain the premises free from floating lint or dust.
Belt type conveyors shall be equipped with hooded air sections, approved static
collectors, and shall be adequately grounded.
Dust collection systems from grinding and other machines which may produce sparks
shall not be combined with collecting systems handling linty or other readily flammable
dusts.
The use of a trap at the junction of a hood or a branch duct may be permitted by the
Chief provided it is not permitted to fill up with dust.
Housings of fans and blowers shall be constructed so as to prevent contact with blades
thereof or accumulation therein of grease from bearings. All fan blades shall be of
nonferrous or non-sparking materials. Where there is a possibility of solid foreign
material passing through the fan that would produce a spark, both the rotating element
and the casing shall be non-sparking material.
A. Metal ducts shall be constructed of sheet metal in accordance with Table 53-A.
TABLE 53-A
Non-Abrasive Materials
Abrasive Materials
8 or Less
24
20
Over 8 to 18
22
18
Over 18 to 30
20
16
Over 30
18
14
C. All sheet metal elbows and bends shall be made from material at least two
gauges heavier than is required for straight duct work of the same diameter except that
for No. 14 gauge and heavier, the elbows and straight duct work may be of the same
gauge.
D. Round sheet metal elbows shall be of at least five-piece construction for ducts
six inches in diameter or less, and of seven-piece construction for larger ducts, with a
throat radius equal to one and one-half times to two times the duct diameter unless space
prohibits the use of such long bends. In place of long radius elbows specified above,
rectangular elbows, venturi-shaped elbows or other bends of equivalent low resistance
design may be used.
E. The main suction duct should receive only one branch in a section of uniform
area, whenever space permits, and in no case shall it receive more than two branches in
such a section.
F. The inlet area of the fan or exhaust duct shall be equal to or greater than the sum
of the areas of all the branch ducts.
G. Every branch duct shall connect with the main duct at top or side at an angle not
exceeding 45 degrees, inclined in the direction of the airflow.
H. The main suction and discharge ducts shall be made as short as practicable. To
provide access for sweeping and cleaning, ducts should not be less than six inches above
the floor at every point, and not closer than six inches to any ceiling.
I. Every duct shall be kept open and unobstructed throughout its length, and no
screen shall be placed in it. The use of a trap may be permitted as provided in Section
57.53.13 of this article.
J. Main ducts of systems handling materials which form an explosive mixture with
air shall be run on the outside of the building where practicable, with ducts from each
operation and each floor passing out directly through the wall and discharging into the
main ducts.
EXCEPTION:
In small shops, dust collecting systems may discharge into metal vaults which are
vented to the outside and are located within the building. Where such collectors are of
insufficient strength to resist maximum-calculated explosion pressure, they shall be
located close to exterior walls to facilitate explosion relief venting.
F. Discharge ducts shall not come within 18 inches of combustible material and
shall terminate at least two feet above any roof of combustible construction, and two feet
above any openings within 10 feet.
G. Delivery ducts from cyclone collectors shall not convey refuse directly into the
fireboxes of boilers, furnaces, (including Dutch Ovens) refuse burners, incinerators, etc.
I. Where refuse is to be used as fuel, the discharge system from the storage
receptacle or intermediate feed bin shall be so designed that either by means of a choke
feeder or choke conveyor, a positive cut-off is provided to prevent a flashback from the
furnace. The installation of a steam spray in the duct to the furnace, blowing steam in the
direction of the fuel flow, shall be installed where practicable to provide an added safety
factor in preventing a flashback.
A. Explosion relief vents shall be provided on all duct systems used for conveying
materials which form an explosive mixture with air. Explosion vents shall have a cross
sectional area not less than the cross sectional area of the duct vented. Vents should be
provided where direction of flow is changed and at the maximum elevation in the system.
B. Explosion relief vents for ducts shall lead by the most direct practical route to the
outside of the building and shall not deviate more than 22-1/2 degrees from the direction
of the duct from which they lead. Such vents shall not pass through adjoining buildings
unless designed to resist maximum explosion pressure.
D. Explosion relief vent openings shall be provided with diaphragms fitted with
cutters to accelerate rupture or equivalent means of relieving pressure. Where necessary,
the discharge opening of the relief vent may be protected against the weather in an
approved manner.
All electrical equipment within any such storage bin, vault, or storage room shall be
installed and maintained in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code)
for a dust or lint hazardous location, depending upon the material handled.
Buildings, rooms, conveyor systems, bins, dust collectors, and processing equipment
shall be provided with fire protection equipment in accordance with the provisions of
Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 54
FLAMMABLE FIBRES
Section
Flammable fibres not in bales or packages, either in buildings or within 100 feet of
any building, shall be stored in accordance with the requirements of Table 54-A and as
hereinafter specified.
A. Up to 100 cubic feet of loose flammable fibres may be kept in any building
provided storage is in a noncombustible or metal-lined wooden bin equipped with a self-
closing noncombustible or metal-lined cover.
B. Quantities in excess of 100 cubic feet of loose flammable fibres shall be stored in
a fire-resistive room constructed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building
Code).
C. Storage rooms exceeding 1,000 cubic feet within buildings shall be equipped
with an approved automatic fire protection system.
No person shall store any baled flammable fibres except as herein after specified.
A. Size of Pile: No single block or pile shall contain more than 7,200 cubic feet if
stored in the open nor more than 25,000 cubic feet of fibres exclusive of aisles or
clearances when stored inside a building. Blocks or piles of baled fibre shall be separated
from adjacent storage by aisles not less than eight feet wide, or by fire-resistive barriers
extending from the floor to a height of at least one foot above the highest point of piles
and projecting at least one foot beyond the sides of the piles.
B. Materials Subject to Swelling: Sisal and other fibres in bales bound with
combustible tie ropes, and jute and other fibres liable to swell when wet, shall be stored
to allow for expansion in any direction without endangering building walls, ceilings, or
columns, and shall be piled with special care to insure stability under fire conditions.
Sides of piles should be inclined back from the base, with a slope of not less than one
foot for each 10 feet of height.
C. Clearances: Not less than three feet clearance shall be maintained between lower
chords, beams, girders, or sprinkler heads and the tops of piles. Not less than three feet
clearance shall be maintained between walls and the sides of piles, except that if storage
compartment is not more than 30 feet in width, one foot clearance at side walls will be
sufficient, provided a center aisle not less than eight feet wide is maintained.
Picking rooms shall be provided with not less than a one-hour occupancy separation
and shall be constructed as specified in Chapter 9 of the L.AM.C. (Building Code).
Picking rooms shall be provided with an approved dust collecting system of sufficient
capacity to adequately remove dust and lint from the air.
Flammable fibres shall not be stored in rooms or buildings with hazardous gases,
flammable liquids, or other hazardous materials except as approved by the Chief.
C. Open Flame: No smoking or open flame shall be permitted in any area where
flammable fibres are handled or stored, nor within 25 feet of any uncovered pile of such
fibres. Conspicuous signs calling attention to smoking regulations shall be posted at
suitable locations.
Grass and weeds shall not be allowed to accumulate on premises where flammable
fibres are stored, nor within 100 feet of any open storage area.
In addition to such automatic fire protection system as may be required under the
provisions of Table No. 54-A and interior standpipes and hose required by Chapter 9 of
the L.A.M.C. (Building Code), portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in
accordance with the requirements of Division 140 of this article.
TABLE 54-A
100
None
Outside A Fire-Resistive Room Or Approved Noncombustible Covered Bin or
Container.
400
100
Within An Approved Noncombustible Bin or Covered Container.
2,000
1,000
Within A Fire-Resistive Room
14,400
7,200
Within A Fire-Resistive Room
2,500
None
Within A Detached Building In An Approved Location–Exclusive Use.
72,000
7,200
Covered
No single pile to exceed 72,000 c.f. separated by 10' aisles; 100' between groups
of piles; 50' from Type IV or V buildings: 25' from unprotected openings in other
buildings.
O
N
B
R
P
72,000
None
Uncovered
36,000
18,000
Non-Fire Resistive
TEM
No single pile to exceed 25,000 c.f., separated by 8' aisles
I
R
O
72,000
36,000
Fire Resistive (Type I, II & III)
No floor to be loaded in excess of one-half its rated load capacity, as determined
by the Bldg. Dept.
72,000
36,000
Non-Fire Resistive Type IIIA, IIIB, IV & V)
AUTO-MATIC FIRE P SYS-
TEM
Not less than 3' clearance to be left between top of piles and sprinkler heads,
lower chords, beams, or girders, and 3' between piles and walls
144,000
72,000
Fire Resistive (Type I, II & III)
No storage to be within 5' of doorways – inside or outside
DIVISION 55
FIREWORKS, SMOKELESS POWDER, SMALL ARMS
AMMUNITION, AND SMALL ARMS PRIMERS
Section
57.55.01 Fireworks.
57.55.06 Vegetation.
A. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) It shall be unlawful for any
person to use, give, possess, sell, or discharge any fireworks.
EXCEPTION:
Patriotic, civic, and religious organizations may conduct fireworks displays under
permit by the Chief and in accordance with the provisions of the Health and Safety Code
of the State of California.
Every display shall be under the control and supervision of a Pyrotechnic Operator
licensed by the State Fire Marshal and shall be conducted under conditions as required by
the Chief. The fireworks in public displays shall be located, discharged and of such
character so as not to be hazardous to persons or property.
B. Fireworks may be shipped, delivered or sold for delivery, to points outside this
City where the sale or use thereof is lawful, by any wholesaler, retailer, jobber,
warehousemen, or a manufacturer, or manufactured for such sale or distribution only, or
kept in storage in a safe and secure place pending the lawful disposal thereof; but no
fireworks shall be handled, manufactured or stored hereunder without the express written
approval of the Chief. Such approval shall be revocable for cause and shall be granted
only upon application therefor, setting forth a description of the place of storage or
manufacture and such other information as the Chief shall require.
C. Storage: Fireworks shall be stored in compliance with the following:
1. Display of smokeless powder shall be limited to one pound of each type and shall
not be accessible to the public. Total quantity of smokeless powder not in an approved
portable magazine shall be limited to 20 pounds.
2. Quantities of more than 20 pounds and not more than 100 pounds shall be stored
in approved portable magazines constructed in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No.
40.
3. Quantities of more than 100 pounds and not more than 5,000 pounds may be
stored inside a building if the following requirements are met:
c. Not more than 400 pounds shall be permitted in any one storage cabinet.
d. Storage cabinets shall be located only against walls of the warehouse or storage
room with a minimum distance of 40 feet between cabinets.
A. Containers: Small arms primers shall not be transported or stored except in the
original shipping containers approved by the D.O.T.
C. Storage Requirements:
a. Shelves of storage cabinets shall not have less than a two-foot vertical separation.
b. Storage cabinets shall be located only against walls of the storage area with a
minimum distance of 40 feet between cabinets.
Any open storage area around a portable magazine shall be kept clear of brush, dried
grass, weeds, and other combustible materials for a distance of at least 50 feet. Persons
owning or having charge or control of the magazine shall be responsible for maintaining
required clearance.
1. Amounts not to exceed 500 pounds may be stored in any safe and secured
location.
3. Not more than 1,000 pounds may be stored in a basement equipped with
automatic sprinklers.
4. Over 5,000 pounds shall be stored in a room complying with Section 57.55.01
(C) for fireworks storage.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided as required by Division 140 of this article
wherever fireworks, smokeless powder, small arms ammunition or small arms primers
are stored, manufactured, or handled.
1. At the entrance to any building where such materials are stored, and at such other
locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
stored, or within such area, if no entrance is clearly defined.
Section
57.56.01 Scope.
This division shall regulate the storage, handling, manufacturing, and packaging of
matches. Matches shall conform to all other applicable requirements of this article as
well as the following provisions.
When matches are stored in the same room with other materials or commodities, they
shall be separated by a clear space of not less than eight feet.
No person shall manufacture, distribute, sell, offer for sale, or possess any exploding
match, “trick” match, blazer or wind type match, or any type of match which will ignite
spontaneously when subjected for eight consecutive hours to a temperature of 200°F. in a
standard laboratory test.
Section
57.57.01 Scope.
This division shall regulate the storage or warehousing of combustible materials inside
of buildings in relation to arrangement, location, and size of areas, height of stored
materials, separations, housekeeping, and fire protection. The specifications set forth in
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 61 may be used in the design and construction of rack storage of
combustible materials over 12 feet in height.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be construed as
defined in this Section:
Single Storage Area – An area of a building separated from other areas by division
walls or occupancy separations and containing one or more storage piles.
Storage Pile – A floor area within a Single Storage Area separated from other storage
piles within that area by Main Aisles and Side Aisles and limited to 3,000 square feet.
Side Aisle – An unobstructed secondary way of egress not less than four feet in width
and transecting Main Aisles.
A. Area Divisions: Every building used for storing combustibles shall be divided
into Storage Piles within Single Storage Areas by providing Main Aisles and Side Aisles.
EXCEPTION:
Storage Piles within a Single Storage Area of 5,000 square feet or less may be divided
by Side Aisles, provided no Storage Pile is greater than 15,000 cubic feet.
B. Area Separations: There shall be no materials stored within a Storage Pile more
than 50 feet from a Main Aisle and not more than 15 feet from a Side Aisle; and further,
any Storage Pile over 50 feet in length shall be bordered on at least two sides by Main
Aisles. Any Storage Pile shall be limited to a maximum length of 100 feet.
C. Height Limitations:
1. Storage shelving or racks more than five feet nine inches in height shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code)
and the requirements of this article.
b. Each pallet pile (four individual stacks of pallets) shall be separated from other
pallet piles by a minimum distance of eight feet and from the storage of other
commodities by 25 feet.
2. Repacking operations.
D. Aisle Maintenance:
1. Aisles and entrances shall be kept free of storage and equipment not being
handled or operated.
A. Storage on Roofs: The use of a building roof for the storing, processing,
producing, packing, or packaging of any type of materials is prohibited.
EXCEPTION:
Buildings which have been specifically planned and constructed in accordance with
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) to utilize roof areas for such purposes.
b. Space under exterior stairways and interior stairways shall not be used for any
purpose except when the usable space under stairs is enclosed and walls and soffits are
protected on the enclosed side as required for one-hour fire-resistive construction in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
Section
57.58.01 Scope.
57.58.05 Drainage.
The provisions of this division shall regulate the storage of combustibles materials
outside of buildings. Such provisions address the arrangement, location and size of areas,
height of stored materials, separations, housekeeping, and fire protection.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. The storage of lumber in outdoor yards shall be in accordance with Division 103
of this article.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be construed as
defined in this section.
Main Aisle – An unobstructed way of egress not less than 10 feet in width.
Single Storage Area – An outside storage area limited to 30,000 square feet.
Storage Pile – A ground area limited to 1,500 square feet within a Single Storage
Area.
A. Single Storage Areas shall be divided into storage piles by means of Access
Driveways, Main Aisles, and Side Aisles.
B. Each Single Storage Area shall have access to a public street, and the width of
such access shall not be less than 20 feet.
1. Areas shall be separated from property lines, streets, alleys, or public way by
Side Aisles.
1. Storage Piles within Single Storage Areas shall be not more than 1,500 square
feet in ground area.
2. All Storage Piles shall be within 150 feet of travel to Access Driveways.
6. Storage Piles shall be a minimum of 15 feet from buildings having exterior walls
of less than two-hour fire-resistive construction.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When a Storage Pile is bordered on two long sides by Access Driveways or Main
Aisles, its height may be increased to 20 feet.
2. Single crated items, scenery backdrops, screens, and flats having height
dimensions exceeding 20 feet when in a normal storage position are exempt from the 20
feet maximum height providing all other requirements are in compliance.
Stored material shall be arranged to facilitate and promote drainage away from such
stored materials and buildings.
B. Smoking Restrictions:
1. Aisles, driveways, and entrances shall be kept free of storage and equipment not
being handled or operated.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and located in storage areas as prescribed
in Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 60
MOLTEN SOLIDS
Section
57.60.03 Housekeeping.
57.60.12 Signs.
Molten Solids
57.60.21 Floors.
57.60.22 Separation.
57.60.24 Venting.
57.60.25 Signs.
A. Water Shields: Where molten salt baths are located so that water may
accidentally enter a bath, a shield or hood shall be so located and installed as to preclude
such contamination. Hoods or shields shall be provided over baths located beneath
automatic sprinklers.
C. Impounding Areas: Salt baths shall be installed over a pit having a capacity equal
to that of the pot; or shall be enclosed by a noncombustible dike forming an impounding
basin capable of withholding the contents of the pot or; the area surrounding the bath
shall be designed to guide the flow to a safe area free of combustible materials, or shall
otherwise comply with the intent of this division.
A. Molten salt bath furnaces shall be equipped with approved safety control devices
and interlock systems that provide protection against equipment malfunctions as per
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 7.
B. Oil and gas fired salt bath furnaces shall be provided with approved controls and
flame-supervisory devices for each burner. Such devices shall be interlocked to shut off
the fuel supply to the affected burners and to activate the alarms.
C. One manual temperature control shall be located remotely from the bath in a
readily accessible place.
D. All salt bath furnaces shall be provided with two temperature control instruments
of the “Fail Safe” type which will maintain the set temperature of the furnace. An excess
temperature control instrument shall be provided and shall be interlocked to shut off the
heating system.
B. Precautions shall be taken to prevent the entrapment of water or air in the treated
material or in the tools. All combustible material shall be kept out of the bath.
In externally heated furnaces which do not melt from the top to the bottom, a cast iron
or steel wedge shall be suspended in center of bath before it solidifies, for use in
remelting. The wedge shall touch the bottom of the pot and extend above the surface.
Quench tanks located within 10 feet of molten salt baths shall be located at a level
below the bath or shall be provided with a deflecting baffle to prevent splashing of the
coolant into the bath.
Waste salts shall not be poured into containers more than six inches in depth unless it
is known that such salt will not continue to form gases.
2. Magnesium and its alloys shall not be heat treated in nitrate baths.
2. Baths that are externally heated by gas or oil burners shall be so located that the
heat will be uniformly distributed without flame impingement on the pot. Burners shall
be arranged so that in the event of rupture of the pot molten salts cannot come in contact
with highly heated materials or enter into the combustion chamber.
3. When nitrate or nitrite baths are taken out of service or shut off, the salt shall be
removed before it solidifies, or steel rods shall be immersed in the solution to provide
vent holes for gases to escape and prevent blowout of gas pockets when reheating.
4. Excess temperature controls on nitrate or nitrite salt baths shall be set no higher
than 1,000°F
A. All salts shall be stored in tightly covered containers on a platform, shelf, pallet,
or skids not less than six inches above the floor and 25 feet from the furnace area and
shall be effectively protected from contamination by moisture.
C. Nitrate or nitrite salts shall not be stored in the same room or area with cyanide
salts, nor shall they share a common drain.
D. When nitrate or nitrite salts have been transported to the furnace area, they shall
be immediately added to the salt bath. Excess salts shall not be permitted in the furnace
area.
Only carbon dioxide or dry chemical portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted in
the area of baths. Where wet standpipe hoses or extinguishers employing the use of liquid
extinguishing agents are located within 100 feet of the bath, they shall be labeled with a
conspicuous sign, “WARNING – DO NOT USE ON FIRES IN MOLTEN SALT”.
Warning signs shall be posted near the entrance to the bath area reading “MOLTEN
SALT BATH” followed by the location. Signs shall be posted on the bath
reading “DANGER – MOLTEN SALT BATH – KEEP WATER AND
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS AWAY”. Posted signs for cyanide, nitrate, or nitrite
baths shall include additional appropriate warnings. If a cyanide bath, add, “DO NOT
PUT ANY NITRATE OR NITRITE IN THIS BATH”. If a nitrate or nitrite bath,
add, “DO NOT PUT ANY CYANIDE IN THIS BATH”.
MOLTEN SOLIDS
B. The installation of the kettle shall be in such a manner that a fire in the kettle will
do no damage beyond the contents.
Kettles shall be heated by steam or hot water except that small kettles under two
gallon capacity may be direct fired if equipped with a projecting flange to catch any
overflow, or are otherwise protected to allow a complete burnout without danger.
Fume hoods shall be provided over melting pots which are heated to temperatures
high enough to give off flammable or toxic vapors, or otherwise cause a fire hazard.
Installation of such hoods and related ducts shall comply with the following:
B. Ducts leading from fume hoods shall be of the same or heavier gauge material,
and shall terminate at a safe location outside the building. Where ducts pass through
combustible walls or roofs, they shall be separated therefrom by a clearance of 12" on all
sides, or shall be protected by a ventilated collar approved by the Chief.
A. Near the entrance to areas containing molten solids kettles, there shall be a
conspicuous sign reading “WARNING, MOLTEN (name of material) KETTLE”
followed by the location.
B. Signs shall be posted on or near the kettle reading “WARNING, MOLTEN
(name of material) KEEP WATER AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS AWAY”.
C. Fire extinguishers employing the use of liquid extinguishing agents and wet
standpipe hoses which are located within 100 feet of the molten solids kettle shall be
conspicuously labeled with a sign reading “DO NOT USE ON MOLTEN (name of
material) KETTLE”.
A. Piping systems employed for the conducting of molten solids for the purpose of
transfer of heat by conduction or radiation shall be approved by the Chief.
C. Piping shall not fatigue, distort or rupture under conditions of sustained pressure
and prolonged heat.
A. Molten materials kettles over two gallons capacity shall be protected with an
automatic fire protection system suitable for the hazard being protected.
B. Kettles of two gallons capacity or less shall be provided with long handled
noncombustible covers for extinguishing fires.
C. Portable fire extinguishers approved for use on molten solids shall be provided.
All other types shall be excluded from the area. Fire protection equipment required by
this section shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the requirements of
Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 61
INDUSTRIAL OVENS AND FURNACES
Section
General Requirements
57.61.01 Scope.
57.61.04 Location.
57.61.05 Construction.
57.61.06 Ventilation.
57.61.14 Maintenance.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
EXCEPTIONS:
Industrial ovens and furnaces which are an integral part of a building or room are
regulated by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code).
No person shall erect, install, alter, or relocate any oven or furnace without a Permit as
required by Division 5 of this article. The heating system including the heating source
(fuel-fired units or electrically heated units), pipe fittings, valve equipment, pressure
regulators, safety controls, and other auxiliary components shall be approved by the Chief
for the type, use, and temperature to which the system and devices will be subjected.
The standard for the location, design, and construction of ovens and furnaces is set
forth under the following classifications:
Class C: Furnaces are those in which there is an explosion hazard due to a flammable
or special atmosphere being used for treatment of material in process. This type of
furnace may use any type of heating system and includes the special atmosphere supply
system.
C. Ovens and furnaces shall be located so that there will not be any adverse
temperature effect on building structural members. Combustible material shall be located
at least two feet from ovens, oven burners, or duct work.
D. Ovens and furnaces and their related equipment shall not be located so as to
obstruct exitways and shall be readily accessible for inspection, maintenance, and with
adequate clearances to permit the proper functioning of explosion vents.
D. Oven and furnace duct construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code), and in accordance with the following:
2. Ducts shall be made tight throughout and shall have no openings other than those
required for the proper operation and maintenance of the system.
3. Ducts passing through combustible walls, floors, or roofs shall have adequate
insulation and clearances to prevent surface temperatures from exceeding 160°F.
4. Exhaust ducts shall not discharge near doors, windows, or other air intakes that
will allow re-entry of vapors into the building.
5. Access openings for cleaning the oven or furnace enclosure and connecting ducts
shall be provided.
E. Roofs and floors of ovens and furnaces shall be sufficiently insulated and
ventilated to keep temperatures at ceilings and floors below 160°F.
C. Volume control dampers in the ducts which affect the volume of fresh air
admitted to and vapors or gases exhausted from the oven or furnace shall be designed so
that they will pass the volume required for safe ventilation when in the closed position.
Construction and maintenance of every fuel-fired unit shall conform to the following:
A. Emergency Shut-off Valves: Valves shall be provided to permit shutting off the
fuel in an emergency and shall be located so that fire or explosions at ovens or furnaces
will not prevent access to these valves.
B. Manual Shutoff Valves: Manual shutoff valves shall be provided for shutoff of
the fuel to the pilot and/or burner for extended periods of shutdown. A main shutoff
valve shall be located on the supply side of all other components to shut off all flow of
fuel for servicing and for other shutdowns.
D. Burner Ignition: Burners shall ignite completely, smoothly, and reliably from the
ignition source provided. If a burner cannot be safely ignited at all firing rates
encountered, positive provision shall be made to assure a firing rate suitable for safe
light-off at the time of ignition (low fire start).
Heating systems using electrical energy as the source of heat for ovens and furnaces
shall comply with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
A. After-burner System:
1. Fuel systems and controls for after-burners shall comply with the requirements
for direct-fired oven heaters. The operation with the fume-generating process shall also
be guaranteed by proper interlocking devices within the after-burner.
2. Where the relative location of equipment and/or the type of fumes generated is
such that they may condense between the originating process and the afterburner to form
combustible liquids or solids, further safeguards shall be taken to avoid fire hazard and to
guarantee delivery to the after-burner in true vapor form or combustible particulate form.
4. When portions of the potential energy are returned to earlier stages of the heating
system (oven, fume delivery manifold, or afterburner), safeguards shall be provided to
avoid recycling untreated gases in the event of system malfunction.
3. An excess temperature limit device, downstream from the catalyst bed, shall be
arranged to shut down the process burners and material handling equipment, and to
operate exhaust relief dampers to provide maximum discharge to the outside atmosphere.
In special instances where an exothermic reaction may occur within a process being
served, further protection shall be provided by arranging for complete diversion of fumes
from the catalyst system when the high limit temperature control is actuated.
5. Explosion relief of one square foot for each 15 cubic feet of volume shall be
provided for large catalytic units (above 64 cubic feet size) subject to excess energy
release or fuel hazards.
Ovens, furnaces, and all safety control equipment shall be inspected or tested
periodically to determine whether such controls or appliances are in satisfactory working
condition. Whenever conditions exist which could impede the proper functioning of any
oven, furnace, or safety control equipment, it shall be restored to its original operating
condition. A written record of the findings of such check or tests shall be maintained and
shall be available for inspection by the Chief. Safety controls as specified in L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 7 shall be maintained in good repair at all times.
Approved portable fire extinguishers shall be provided near the oven or furnace,
heater, and related equipment in accordance with Division 140 of this article.
Ovens and furnaces shall be attended and operated only by persons instructed in
methods of proper use and operation and who are qualified to use such oven or furnace in
accordance with minimum safety requirements.
SEC. 57.61.13. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.
1. Start-up procedures.
2. Shutdown procedures.
3. Emergency procedures.
4. Maintenance procedures.
D. All ovens or furnaces, ducts, pipes, fans, motors, and other equipment shall be
kept free from deposits of residue.
Caul boxes and drying and heating boxes may be used for small objects but shall be
constructed of metal and utilize positive methods of heat control. Steam pipes may be
placed in the bottom of such boxes but shall be protected to prevent material from
coming in direct contact with them.
SEC. 57.61.17. MISCELLANEOUS DEVICES.
Dehydrators, dryers, core ovens, incubators, brooders, roasters used for coffee, cocoa,
and peanuts, and other similar devices, shall be installed and used in accordance with the
instructions of the manufacturer.
DIVISION 70
EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
Section
General Provisions
57.70.01 Scope.
Blasting
57.70.40 Scope.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the storage,
processing, use, and transportation of explosive materials.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
In addition to the provisions of this division, every person dealing in the sale of
explosive materials in any amounts, shall comply with the applicable provisions of the
California Health and Safety Code.
A. No person shall possess, keep or store any explosive material which is not
completely enclosed and encased in a tight metal, wooden, or fiber container, except at
one of the following locations:
1. A plant for the processing of explosive materials.
2. A laboratory.
D. No explosive material shall be kept at any place where its accidental discharge
would cut off the escape of persons working therein.
E. Black blasting powder shall not be stored with other Class “A” explosive
materials except in an explosives vault.
EXCEPTION:
B. Not more than 500 pounds of explosive materials shall be stored in any one
explosives vault.
C. Every explosives vault used for the storage of explosive materials shall be
constructed and isolated as set forth in Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code), and
located in accordance with the provisions of Chapter I of the L.A.M.C. (Zoning).
I. Explosives vaults shall be kept clean and free from rubbish. They shall not be
used for the storage of any material except explosive materials.
J. Keys or combinations for explosives vault locks shall be kept in a safe place. No
unauthorized person shall unlock or remove explosive materials from an explosives vault.
B. Not more than 100 pounds of explosive materials shall be stored or transported
in any one portable magazine.
C. Portable magazines shall be painted red and shall bear lettering in white, on all
sides and top, at least three inches in height and having a one-half inch stroke which
reads: “EXPLOSIVES”.
EXCEPTION:
Smaller lettering may be approved when the size of the magazine prohibits the use of
the larger lettering.
E. Igniters, detonators, fuzes, boosters, or other initiating devices shall not be stored
or transported in the same portable magazine with other explosive materials.
B. Storage Requirements:
2. Quantities of more than one pound and not more than 20 pounds shall be stored
in an approved portable magazine constructed in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No.
40.
3. Quantities of more than 20 pounds and not more than 500 pounds shall be stored
inside an explosives vault that conforms to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
C. Product Display: Display shall not be accessible to the public and shall be
limited to one pound maximum.
A. General Requirements:
2. Emergency procedures shall be formulated for each plant and building. Fire and
disaster drills shall be conducted and records of such drills kept at the plant office.
3. Employees who handle explosive materials shall be instructed in the hazards of
the materials involved and processes in which they are to engage; and shall be made
familiar with the rules governing such materials and processes.
5. Instructions for operators shall be posted at or near each working area. Such
instructions shall include amounts of explosive materials permissible at the working area;
number of persons permitted in the area at one time; bonding of metal containers before
pouring out contents; locking of machinery in off position before working on it; cleaning
agents to be used (if any); and any other precautions deemed necessary due to
characteristics of the materials.
6. The quantity of explosive materials present in a work room shall not exceed the
amount necessary for current operations and in no case shall the amount exceed a one-
half day supply of explosive materials. Provided, however, if in the opinion of the Chief
a one-half day supply of explosive materials would introduce an undue hazard, the
maximum quantity may be limited to lesser amounts.
7. The maximum amount of explosive materials contained at any one time in any
one building used for the manufacture or assembly of products utilizing or containing
explosive materials shall be limited to 80 pounds, not more than 20 pounds of which shall
be contained in the building in other than partially completed or completed product units.
9. Explosive materials shall be kept in covered containers except when being used
or processed.
10. Waste receptacles with tight fitting covers shall be provided at or just outside of
each working area for the disposal of waste material, cleaning rags, and other
combustible waste and debris. Waste receptacles shall be emptied and cleaned as often
as necessary but at least at the end of each shift or the end of each day.
1. Work areas shall be separated by distances, barriers, or other means so that a fire
at one area will not ignite material at another area.
2. Ventilation and dust-control equipment shall be of such type and so installed and
operated as not to endanger employees by possible ignition of explosives. Ducts shall be
grounded and as short and straight as possible with no capped outlets, pockets, or other
dead-end spaces where explosives might accumulate.
4. Hydraulic and pneumatic presses, including hand jacks, shall be provided with
pressure relief valves so arranged and set that material in process will not be subjected to
pressures likely to cause it to explode. Dies and plugged press equipment shall not be
cleared by striking blows that may cause the material to detonate or burn.
C. Test Areas:
1. Areas where explosive materials are detonated or burned shall be fenced and
posted with adequate warning signs.
2. Audible and visible warning devices shall be utilized to give suitable warning to
nearby personnel before detonating or burning any explosive materials.
3. When tests are being conducted or explosive materials are being detonated or
burned for any purpose, only authorized personnel shall be permitted within the test area
enclosure.
BLASTING
No person shall use any explosive materials for the purpose of blasting unless a valid
Permit has been issued therefor as set forth in Division 5 of this article except members
of the Police or Fire Departments acting within their official capacity and in the proper
performance of their duties.
No blasting operation requiring a Permit under this article shall be performed except
under the direct supervision of a Blasting Operator holding a valid Certificate of Fitness
authorizing such person to conduct and supervise blasting operations within the City of
Los Angeles.
A. There shall be no smoking, open lights, or fire of any kind or radio transmission
in or near any posted area where explosive materials are being handled. No source of
ignition, except necessary means to light fuses or fire electric detonators, shall be
permitted in any posted area containing loaded holes.
B. Explosive materials shall be stored in an explosive magazine until such time as
they are required for use.
C. No explosive material container shall be opened with metallic tools, except that
knives, metallic slitters, or similar tools may be used to open cardboard cartons
containing explosive materials.
D. Paper cartons, sawdust, and other rubbish from explosive material containers
shall be removed to a safe place and burned.
E. Explosive materials shall not be placed or left within 25 feet of any electric light
or power circuit except during transportation.
G. The Blasting Operator shall set the time for all blasting. Before firing any
charge, the Blasting Operator shall give adequate warning in all directions and shall make
sure that all persons are out of the blasting area. No person shall return to the blasting
area until permitted to do so by the Blasting Operator as announced by audible or visual
signal.
H. After each blast, the blast area shall be examined for misfired holes. If any are
found, or are suspected to exist, they shall be reported to the Blasting Operator. If it is
not certain that all charges have been detonated, no person shall enter the blast area until
at least 45 minutes after the firing.
I. No hole for blasting shall be fired within 100 feet of any other hole which is
loaded and not intended to be fired at the same time.
J. All detonators, fuzes, and explosive materials left over after loading operations
are completed shall be promptly returned to their explosive magazines.
A. Machines and all metal tools not used for loading explosive materials into bore
holes shall be removed from the immediate location of bore holes before explosive
materials are delivered.
E. The explosive materials containers, if any, shall be opened at the pile and carried
up to the hole one case or unit at a time for immediate loading, or placed at a loading
station not less than six feet from the hole except that not more than 100 pounds of
explosive materials shall be allowed at the loading station at any one time.
F. When drilling and loading are being performed simultaneously in the same area,
the two operations shall be separated as widely as practicable and in no case shall drilling
be conducted closer to a loaded hole than a distance equal to the deepest blast hole in the
area.
G. Power lines and portable electric cables to equipment shall be kept a safe
distance away from explosive materials and loaded holes. Cables within 100 feet of any
hole which is loaded or being loaded shall be de-energized.
H. All drill holes shall be checked with a loading stick, dolly, or mirror before
loading operations are started, to make sure the hole is opened for the full depth.
I. Detonators, when used in firing blasts, shall be of not less strength than number
six.
J. The detonators shall be encased in explosive materials when inserted into a drill
hole, unless a safety primer is used.
K. A funnel made of wood, nonferrous metal, or heavy paper shall be used to load
free-flowing or bulk explosive materials down a hole. The explosive material shall be
poured directly from its container through the funnel into the hole.
L. Only wooden rods shall be used for tamping explosive materials and such rods
shall have no metal tips or parts other than non-ferrous metal ferrules for extending the
length of the wooden rod. The end of the tamping stick shall be kept square and of such
minimum diameter that the tamping stick will not by-pass the cartridges in the hole.
N. All blast holes shall be stemmed to the collar or to a point to sufficiently confine
the charge and minimize the chance of injury to personnel by flying material.
O. Mechanical tamping devices shall be so constructed that no metal parts will enter
the bore hole unless such parts are so effectively insulated that no metal can come in
contact with the explosive materiel being tamped.
A. The Chief shall inspect the proposed blasting operation prior to the detonation of
any explosive charge to be used in blasting. No detonation shall be performed until the
proposed blasting operation has been inspected and approved by the Chief.
B. Every person in charge of a blasting operation shall notify the Department of the
estimated time of detonation. Such notification shall be made not later than 4:00 P.M. of
the last working day prior to the proposed date of detonation, and in no case less than 24
hours prior to the estimated time of detonation.
The provisions of Sections 57.70.40 through 57.70.50 shall apply to the transportation
of explosive materials in any amounts unless specifically exempted hereby.
EXEMPTIONS:
5. Chemicals in the form of medicine when such chemicals are securely packed in
containers not exceeding four ounces in one outside package and are prepared in
accordance with U.S. Pharmacopoeia Standards.
7. Common carriers for hire shall be permitted to transport not more than 100
pounds of smokeless powder packaged in original United States Department of
Transportation containers, not exceeding 20 pounds in any single package, upon any
public highway not designated in regulations adopted by the California Highway Patrol
as a route for the transportation of explosives.
Permits and fees shall be required as set forth in Division 4 of this article except for
vehicles operating under valid permit from the California Highway Patrol as required by
the California Vehicle Code.
All applicable provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 5 shall apply to the transportation
of explosive materials within the City.
Vehicles used for the transportation of explosive materials shall comply with the
following provisions:
A. Facilities shall be provided for securely lashing or bracing the load in place.
B. Explosives shall not be transported in a trailer, nor shall any trailer be attached to
any vehicle transporting explosives.
C. No person in, upon, or near any vehicle carrying explosive materials shall smoke
or light any match or otherwise have or produce any fire.
D. Blasting caps, or detonators, shall not be transported on the same vehicle with
other explosives.
A. Routes of Travel: Every vehicle transporting explosive materials shall follow the
routes of travel designated in regulations adopted by the California Highway Patrol and
pursuant to the California Vehicle Code.
E. Load Limit: Vehicles carrying explosive materials shall not be piled above the
level of the sideboards or tailgate of the body of the vehicle in which they are carried.
Section
General Requirements
57.71.01 Scope.
57.71.11 Containers.
57.71.12 Separation.
Safety Controls
57.71.20 Stabilization.
57.71.21 Contamination.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
In addition to all other applicable portions of this article, the provisions of this division
and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall apply to the storage, processing, handling, and use of
unstable materials.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
No person shall store, process, or handle any unstable material without a Permit as set
forth in Division 4 of this article.
A. The application for a Permit to store, process, or handle any unstable material
shall be filed as set forth in Division 4 of this article. Such application shall be filed
within 72 hours after acquisition of any substance designated as an unstable material.
C. All applications for a Permit filed pursuant to the provisions of this section shall
be confidential.
The contents thereof shall not be disclosed by any officer or employee of the City to
any person, except to an officer or employee of the City, the performance of whose duties
requires that he or she have such information.
D. Before authorizing the issuance of a Permit, the Department may require that the
applicant submit one or more of the following reports:
1. A report from an approved testing laboratory setting forth the physical and
chemical properties of the material in question, whenever such properties are not readily
available in the published literature, nor from other recognized sources.
A. The Permit shall set forth the maximum quantity of unstable materials allowed
under the Permit.
B. Only one Permit shall be issued to any one premises and such Permit may be a
blanket Permit for all types of unstable materials, or may be limited to one or more
specific unstable materials.
D. The Department shall have full power and authority to immobilize any unstable
materials that are being stored, processed, or handled without a Permit or in violation of
the conditions of any such Permit.
STORAGE OF UNSTABLE MATERIALS
2. Distance separation, the number of feet depending upon whether stored in the
open or within a building, and, if within a building, upon the type of construction and
whether or not automatic fire protection is provided, or
B. All tank, vessels, and pipe lines shall be grounded or bonded in an approved
manner to prevent the accumulation of static electricity.
All valves, gauges, vents, pressure relief devices, and controls shall be so designed
and located that they can be readily inspected and cleaned when used in connection with
unstable materials subject to polymerization.
Tubular gauge glasses shall not be used on tanks or vessels containing liquid unstable
materials unless they are of the high pressure, parallel plate glass type.
A. The maximum quantity of unstable material permitted at each working area shall
be designated by the Permit.
B. Not more than one container of any one unstable material shall be open at one
time at each working area or in any storage building, room, vault, or cabinet, except in
special processes not involving hazard to life, limb, or property, or except where it is
necessary to use more than one grade, grind, form, etc., of any one unstable material and
then not more than one container of each type shall be open at any one time.
SAFETY CONTROLS
Unstable materials which require stabilization by the use of inhibitors shall not be
stored, processed, or handled without such inhibitors, except that where a particular
process required the use of an unstable material without such additives, the Chief may
waive the above prohibition under specifically prescribed conditions.
Unstable materials which may produce an uncontrolled reaction when in contact with
other materials shall be effectively safeguarded against accidental contamination with
such other materials.
SEC. 57.71.22. INERT GAS.
Tanks and process vessels for unstable materials shall be equipped with thermal alarm
systems, pressure alarms, or other approved means to indicate any abnormal temperature
rise. Such systems shall be approved by the Department.
When the Department finds that an unreasonable hazard exists, tanks and vessels for
unstable materials shall be equipped with one or more of the following:
B. The placing of unstable materials in receptables used for ordinary rubbish and
waste materials and intended to be hauled away to dumps is prohibited.
C. Where a special pick-up service is provided for waste unstable materials which
cannot be safely disposed of by ordinary methods, such materials shall be placed in
suitable containers with proper labels to indicate the nature of the contents and principal
hazards, pending or during their transit to the disposal location.
Fire protection systems for fire control, control of chemical reaction, or protection
against exposure fire may be required by the Chief as a condition of a Permit when the
magnitude or conditions of the hazard warrants.
1. At an entrance to any building where such materials are processed or stored, and
at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
stored or processed, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
3. On the sides of or adjacent to tanks or vessels used for the storage or processing
of such materials.
B. Wherever unstable materials are processed or stored, signs with letters at least
three inches in height on contrasting background stating “UNSTABLE MATERIALS”
shall be posted at any location within a building and at any location within an area
outside a building where such materials are processed or stored, and at such other
locations as may be required by the Chief.
C. Vehicles used for the transportation of unstable materials shall display a warning
placard designed, constructed and affixed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25 and
shall comply with all other provisions of such standard not inconsistent with the
provisions of State law and regulations promulgated thereunder regulating the
transportation of such materials.
DIVISION 72
CORROSIVE MATERIALS
Section
General Requirements
57.72.01 Scope.
57.72.02 Definition.
57.72.04 Handling.
Storage
57.72.10 Separation.
Processing
Safeguards
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
In addition to all other applicable provisions of this article, corrosive materials shall be
stored, processed, and transported in accordance with the provisions of this division and
LAFD Standard No. 68.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
The following word, wherever used in this division, shall be construed as defined in
this section, unless it is apparent from the context that it has a different meaning.
Tank—Any atmospheric tank, low pressure tank, or pressure vessel, as defined in this
article.
B. Tanks shall be of a type, design and construction suitable for their intended use.
Tanks shall be designed, constructed, tested and maintained in accordance with the
following Standards when applicable:
When tanks are not designed in compliance with these specific Standards, the design
specifications shall be approved by the Chief.
1. At an entrance to any building and any room where such materials are stored or
processed, and at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. On the sides of or adjacent to any tank used for the storage of corrosive materials.
3. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
stored or processed, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
B. Wherever corrosive materials are stored or processed, signs with letters not less
than three inches high on contrasting background stating “WARNING – CORROSIVE
MATERIALS” shall be posted at any location within a building and at any location
within an area outside a building where such materials are processed or stored, and at
such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
STORAGE
The storage of corrosive materials in drums or carboys shall conform to the following:
A. Drums or carboys shall not be stacked more than two containers high unless on
pallets. Maximum height shall be 12 feet.
C. Drums and carboys shall be stored in an upright position with a bung or plug
uppermost.
D. Excess pressure which may have developed from high temperature hydrogen
formation in drums or carboys equipped with non-porous or non-venting stoppers, plugs,
or caps, shall be vented when containers are placed in storage. Drums shall be opened at
frequent intervals to prevent excessive pressure developing from hydrogen formation.
Tanks used for the storage of corrosive materials shall comply with the provisions of
this section.
A. Tanks shall be equipped with manual shut-off valves which may be operated
without going beneath the tank.
B. Tanks having a capacity in excess of 120 gallons and located within or upon
buildings shall be equipped with heat-actuated, automatic-closing shutoff valves
approved by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
The Chief may permit the use of a remote control valve which is clearly labeled and
located where easily accessible in the event of fire or other emergency.
C. Tanks not resting upon the ground or floor and located within a building or
within ten feet of a combustible structure, shall rest on supports of at least one-hour fire-
resistive construction.
D. When tanks are located outside of a building and are connected to piping
entering a building, conspicuously labeled emergency shutoff valves shall be installed at
a readily available place outside of the building.
The storage of corrosive materials outside of buildings shall be located not less than
five feet from buildings or property lines.
PROCESSING
Gas pressure shall not be used to empty containers of corrosive materials unless such
containers are designed to withstand the pressure used.
Tanks containing corrosive materials which react with water shall be of closed type, or
shall be equipped with a lid which shall be kept closed during intervals of non-use and at
the end of each working shift. A hood or shield shall be provided over open tanks
containing corrosive materials which react with water, if located beneath automatic
sprinklers.
A. Where steam is used to heat or agitate corrosive materials in tanks, vats or pans
or where compressed air is used to agitate such liquids and such steam or air is supplied
from a line in which the pressure is higher than that which may be safely used to heat or
agitate the liquids, a spring loaded relief valve or other effective means shall be provided
in the line to prevent the delivery of excessive pressures of steam or air to the tanks.
B. Such tanks and vats in which corrosive materials are agitated by compressed air,
steam or mechanical means, or are heated, shall have controls so located that any
employee operating them will not be exposed to splashes or boil-overs. Where such
location is impracticable, equivalent protection shall be provided by means of shelter, and
safe means of escape from shelter shall be provided.
SAFEGUARDS
Areas used for the storage or processing of corrosive materials shall be equipped with
at least one of the following:
A. Water outlets, with attached hose, for adequate dilution and flushing of spills to a
safe location.
A deluge water-shower and eye flusher, with the water piping carrying a pressure not
exceeding 25 pounds, shall be provided near each area where corrosive materials which
may burn, irritate, or otherwise be harmful to persons, are stored, processed, or used.
Shower and eye flusher shall be connected to a potable water supply line.
A. The cargo tanks of tank trucks used for the transportation of corrosive materials
shall be constructed in accordance with Specifications MC310 or MC311 of L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 26.
B. Due care shall be exercised in the transfer of corrosive materials to or from tank
trucks to prevent hazard to life and property. Emptying of a compartment shall be
complete. Partial evacuation of a single compartment is prohibited.
A. Due care shall be exercised in the transfer of corrosive materials to or from tank
cars to prevent hazard to life or property, and the transfer shall be performed in
compliance with L.A.F.D. Standards No. 29, 30, 31 or 32 as may be applicable.
B. Tank cars shall be unloaded as soon as possible after their arrival at point of
delivery and shall not be used as storage tanks. Tank cars containing corrosive materials
shall not be allowed to remain at point of delivery for more than 24 hours while being
unloaded. A qualified person shall supervise the transfer operations.
DIVISION 73
OXIDIZING MATERIALS
Section
General Requirements
57.73.04 Housekeeping.
57.73.10 Separation.
57.73.11 Containers.
57.73.15 Floors.
In addition to all other applicable provisions of this article, oxidizing material shall be
stored and processed in accordance with the provisions of this division and LAFD
Standard No. 68.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
A. All rubbish, litter, and scrap dunnage shall be removed from storage areas, and
such storage areas shall be maintained clean and orderly.
B. Areas where more than 500 pounds of oxidizing materials are stored.
SEC. 57.73.06. PROHIBITED USES.
1. At the entrance to any building where such hazardous materials are processed or
stored, and at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
stored or processed, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
B. Signs with letters not less than three inches high on contrasting background
stating “WARNING – OXIDIZERS – NO SMOKING” shall be posted at all locations
within a building and at all locations within an area outside a building where such
materials are stored or processed, as well as at such other locations as may be required by
the Chief.
B. Distance separation, the number of feet depending upon whether stored in the
open or within a building. Such distances shall be approved by the Chief.
SEC. 57.73.11. CONTAINERS.
A. Oxidizing materials shall be stored in containers suitable for their use. Where
containers do not conform to nationally recognized good practice, they shall be of an
approved type.
The storage of oxidizing materials in drums shall comply with the following
requirements:
A. Drums shall be stored not more than two drums high unless stored on pallets.
B. Piles shall be maintained not less than three feet below the lowest horizontal
ceiling or roof supports.
C. Piles of drums shall not exceed 625 square feet in area and shall be accessible on
all sides. Each pile shall be located not less than five feet from any other pile of any
material.
The storage of oxidizing materials in bags shall comply with the following
requirements:
A. Bags shall be stored not more than six feet high unless stored on pallets.
B. Bags shall be laid so as to “break joints,” each bag above the bottom tier
bridging across two or more bags beneath.
C. Bags shall be stored not less than three feet from the storage building walls in
piles not more than 12 feet in width, with three foot aisles between piles.
D. Bags shall not be stored closer than three feet from the roof or ceiling or any
beams, spreaders, or other horizontal structural roof or ceiling support members.
E. Bags shall not be stored closer than three feet from steam or hot water pipes,
radiators, heating devices, or electric devices, wiring, and fittings, including switches.
F. Buildings in which bagged oxidizing materials are stored shall be well ventilated
and kept clean and free from combustible waste material. Roofs and floors above
masonry storage building walls shall not be of masonry or concrete construction.
G. All loose or spilled oxidizing material shall be promptly cleaned up, placed in
proper containers, or disposed of.
H. Piles of bags shall not exceed 625 square feet in area and shall be accessible on
all sides. Each pile shall be located not less than five feet from any other pile of any
material.
The storage of oxidizing materials in bulk shall comply with the following
requirements:
B. Storage piles outside of bins shall not exceed 1,000 cubic feet capacity and shall
be located not less than five feet from other such piles.
C. Storage piles outside of bins shall be located not less than five feet from
combustible materials.
The storage of oxidizing materials outside buildings shall be located not less than five
feet from buildings and property lines except that storage of oxidizing materials may be
permitted less than five feet from fire-resistive walls without openings.
Section
57.74.01 Scope.
57.74.03 Compliance.
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the storage,
processing, and use of toxic materials. The design and construction of industrial
equipment, containers, and special vessels for the use of toxic materials shall be regulated
in accordance with Divisions 41, 42, and 43 of this article.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
Upon written notification by the Chief, no person shall store, continue to store, fail to
provide adequate safeguards, or fail to remove toxic materials from a location determined
by the Chief to be unsafe.
1. At the entrance to any building and to any room where such materials are
handled, stored or processed, and at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
handled, stored or processed, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
3. On the sides of, or adjacent to tanks and vessels used for the storage or handling
of toxic materials.
B. Wherever toxic materials are handled or stored, signs with letters not less than
three inches high on contrasting background stating “TOXIC MATERIAL” shall be
posted at any location within a building and at any location within an area outside a
building where such materials are stored or handled, and at such other locations as may
be required by the Chief.
C. Vehicles used for the transportation of toxic materials shall comply with all
provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25, consistent with provisions of State law and
regulations promulgated thereunder regulating the transportation of toxic materials.
3. A dike area not less than six inches in height for containers, or a dike area
constructed in accordance with Division 31 of this article for tanks.
No smoking or open flame shall be allowed in any area where toxic materials are
used, processed, or stored. Any such area shall have conspicuously posted therein a sign
in letters not less than three inches high on contrasting background reading, “NO
SMOKING OR OPEN FLAME WITHIN 25 FEET.”
DIVISION 75
MISCELLANEOUS HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Section
Water-reactive Materials
57.75.01 Scope.
Acid-reactive Materials
Air-reactive Materials
WATER-REACTIVE MATERIALS
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No.68 shall regulate the storage
and use of those hazardous materials not covered in other divisions of this article.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
(Former Sec. 57.75.01 renumbered as Sec. 57.75.02 by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)
(Former Sec. 57.75.02 renumbered as Sec. 57.75.03 by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)
Tanks or lines containing water-reactive materials which are open at the top in such a
manner that water streams could be directed into them during fire conditions shall be
covered at the close of each working day and during extended periods of non-use with an
approved lid or cover.
ACID-REACTIVE MATERIALS
Acid-reactive materials shall be stored in such a manner that they will not come in
contact with acids or acid fumes under normal storage conditions or during fire
conditions.
AIR-REACTIVE MATERIALS
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
stored or processed, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
3. On the sides of or adjacent to tanks and vessels used for storage or processing of
hazardous materials.
C. Vehicles used for the transportation of hazardous materials shall be posted with
warning placards designed, constructed, and affixed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 25 and shall comply with all other provisions of such standard consistent with State
law and regulations promulgated thereunder regulating the transportation of such
material.
DIVISION 76
ORGANIC PEROXIDES
Section
57.76.01 Scope.
The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the storage,
handling, and use of organic peroxides. Unless otherwise specifically provided in this
division, compliance with the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 65 shall be required.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
A Permit shall be required in accordance with Division 4 of this article when the
quantities prescribed in Table 4-A are exceeded in any occupancy or on any premises.
B. Acetones shall not be used as an extender for ketone peroxides or for cleaning
equipment in which ketone peroxides have been used.
E. Organic peroxides shall be separated from all sources of heat including steam
pipes, radiators, open flames or sparks, and solar radiation.
C. Organic peroxides shall not be stored in the same cabinet, room, or area with
metallic salts, acids, bases, amines, oxidizing or reducing agents of any type, accelerators
such as Cobalt Naphthenates and Cobalt Tertiary Amine, or with flammable or
combustible liquids.
B. Not more than 50 pounds of solid or 20 gallons of liquid organic peroxides shall
be stored in a Hazardous Materials Cabinet.
C. Not more than one Hazardous Materials Cabinet containing organic peroxides
shall be allowed within a building and such cabinet shall be used exclusively for the
storage of organic peroxides.
D. The location of Hazardous Materials Cabinets shall be determined by the Chief.
Refrigerators and freezers may be used for the storage of small quantities of organic
peroxides only under the following conditions:
B. Organic peroxides shall not be allowed to contact the interior surfaces of the
refrigerator or freezer.
C. The location of the refrigerator or freezer shall be approved by the Chief and
shall comply with other applicable sections of this division.
D. Not more than 50 pounds of solid or 20 gallons of liquid organic peroxides shall
be stored in a refrigerator or freezer, and only one such appliance shall be allowed within
a building for the exclusive storage of organic peroxides.
A. Organic peroxides in mixing areas shall be limited to the quantity needed for one
eight-hour shift.
B. Dispensing or weighing of organic peroxides shall not take place in the storage
area.
C. A section of the manufacturing area near the point of use shall be set aside for
dispensing and weighing of peroxides. This section shall be clean and procedures shall be
established to eliminate contamination with promoters or chemicals of any type
No smoking, open flame, unapproved heating device, or other source of ignition shall
be permitted in any room or area where organic peroxides are stored, mixed, or applied.
The owner, operator, or person in charge or control shall post “NO SMOKING” signs in
each location in which smoking shall be prohibited. Such signs shall have lettering not
less than three inches in height on a contrasting background.
1. At an entrance to any building where such materials are processed or stored, and
at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where such materials are
stored or processed, or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.
C. Vehicles used for the transportation of organic peroxides shall display a warning
placard designed, constructed, and affixed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25.
Such vehicles shall comply with all other provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25 that are
consistent with the provisions of State law and the regulations promulgated thereunder
that regulate the transportation of such materials.
TABLE 76-A
Class 1
4
Class 2
4
Class 3
3
Class 4
2
Class 5
1
Section
57.79.01 Scope.
57.79.02 Definitions.
57.79.04 Classification.
In addition to all other applicable portions of this article, the provisions of this division
shall regulate any dry cleaning plant, and/or to any building, premises, or room which is
equipped to perform the services of dry cleaning or dyeing.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be defined as
follows:
Dry Cleaning Unit – Any equipment or machine in which textiles are immersed or
agitated in solvent or in which dry cleaning solvent is extracted from textiles.
Spotting – The local application of solvent to spots of dirt, grease, paints, and stains
for removal of the same.
Toxicity – Shall apply to any solvent which, as determined by the Chief, creates a
toxic hazard, including, but not limited to, chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents.
Tumbler – Any rotating processing machine in which the rotation is used to cause
items to fall through a moving air-supply.
B. Before any dry cleaning plant is established or remodeled, the class or quantity
of solvent is changed, the cleaning method or any equipment is changed, plans and
specifications shall be submitted for Fire Department approval.
C. No person shall erect, install, relocate, or alter any appliance, device, or system,
when such equipment is to be used in dry cleaning processes unless a valid Permit as
required by Division 5 of this article has been issued.
For the purpose of this division, dry cleaning plants or systems are arranged in the
following classes:
Class I – Shall mean those plants or systems utilizing flammable liquids having a flash
point below 100°F.
Class II – Shall mean those plants or systems utilizing combustible liquids having a
flash point at or above 100°F. and below 140°F.
Class IIIA – Shall mean those plants or systems utilizing combustible liquids having a
flash point at or above 140°F.
Class IIIB – Shall mean those plants or systems in which Class IIIB combustible
liquids are employed as solvents for dry cleaning.
A. General: Class II and Class IIIA dry cleaning plants shall be within buildings
conforming to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) for Group
H, Division 3 Occupancies. Class IIIB dry cleaning plants shall be within buildings
conforming to the requirements for a Group B, Division 2 Occupancies.
B. Location Within Buildings: Dry cleaning rooms and solvent storage rooms shall
be located only on the first story.
C. Plant Separations: Buildings containing Class II or Class IIIA dry cleaning plants
and their associated operations shall be separated from all other businesses by not less
than four-hour fire-resistive occupancy separations.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Class II dry cleaning plants and associated operations may be separated from
other businesses by two-hour fire-resistive occupancy separations when the total quantity
of Class II liquids within the building does not exceed 550 gallons and the capacity of
individual containers or tanks does not exceed 275 gallons.
2. Class IIIA dry cleaning plants and associated operations may be separated from
other occupancies by two-hour fire-resistive occupancy separations when the total
quantities of Class IIIA liquids within the building does not exceed 1,320 gallons and the
capacity of individual containers or tanks within the building does not exceed 330
gallons.
D. Occupancy Separations:
1. Dry Cleaning Rooms: Dry cleaning rooms containing Class II or Class IIIA
solvents shall be separated from other uses including solvent storage, offices, laundering,
scouring, scrubbing, pressing and ironing operations by not less than two-hour fire-
resistive occupancy separations.
EXCEPTION:
Solvent storage tanks need not be separated from the dry cleaning room when the
capacity of each tank does not exceed 500 gallons, provided there are not more than two
storage tanks and the aggregate capacity of all solvent tanks and containers within the
room does not exceed 1,600 gallons.
Dry cleaning rooms containing Class IIIB solvents need not be separated from other
uses in the dry cleaning plant; however, the maximum capacity of any containers or tanks
within the room shall not exceed 500 gallons and the capacity of all containers or tanks
within the room shall not exceed 1,500 gallons.
2. Solvent Storage: Except for solvent storage allowed within a dry cleaning room
in Subdivision 1 of 57.79.06-D, solvents stored within a plant shall be within Hazardous
Materials Rooms.
EXCEPTION:
Solvent storage for scouring, brushing, and spotting operations may be stored in
Hazardous Materials Cabinets.
3. Drying Rooms: Rooms or areas in which articles are hung up to dry shall be
separated from other uses by not less than two-hour fire-resistive occupancy separations.
EXCEPTION:
Approved drying or deodorizing cabinets may be located within dry cleaning rooms
5. Floors: Floors in rooms containing solvents shall comply with the requirements
of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) for rooms used for storage of flammable or
combustible liquids.
The provisions of this section apply to Class IV dry cleaning plants and systems
located in buildings with or without other occupancies, in which the dry cleaning is not
conducted by the public nor in coin-operated type equipment.
A. General Requirements:
2. Only solvents approved for Class IV installations shall be used in any dry
cleaning machine or system designed for such solvents.
4. Solvent storage and treatment tanks and all interior steel surfaces which tend to
corrode when exposed during ordinary operation to solvent and to air alternately shall be
protected against corrosion. Pumps, filters, or any closed containers which ordinarily are
completely filled with solvent or which ordinarily do not tend to corrode, may be
constructed of carbon steel without corrosion protection.
5. Exhaust ventilation ducts from equipment shall extend above the roof line unless
leading directly into a solvent recovery system.
B. Ventilation, Light, Power, and Heat:
2. All electrical equipment, devices, and wiring for light and power shall be
installed in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical
Code).
3. Air for combustion for gas and oil-fired devices shall come through ducts from a
clean source of air outside the building when such devices are located in the dry cleaning
room.
4. Apparatus with open flames or with exposed electric heating elements shall not
be placed within 20 feet of any Class IV equipment, unless such apparatus is located in a
separate enclosed room or cabinet which is independently ventilated to prevent the air
from the dry cleaning system from being drawn towards the apparatus.
2. Pipes, tubings, valves, and sightglasses shall be of materials suitable for use with
the solvent and shall be tested for minimum pressure of 50 percent in excess of the
maximum operating pressure.
3. Flow and level sightglasses shall be reliably protected against physical damage.
4. All pumps shall be designed for the solvent being used and be provided with
seals proven to be leakproof in solvent operation. Positive displacement pumps for
solvent service shall be fitted with relief valves or bypasses set to prevent pressure in
excess of the working pressure of the system.
2. Dry cleaning units shall be equipped with brakes or other suitable means to stop
the machine within a reasonable time. Brakes shall be designed to avoid the creation of
sparks or excessive heat. If dry cleaning units are equipped with automatic controls, a
manual push button to stop the machine shall be provided in front of the unit.
3. Dry cleaning units shall be provided with an overflow pipe one size larger than
the size of the solvent supply line to the machine. Such overflow pipe shall be connected
to the shell of the washer so that the top of the overflow is below the bottom of the
trunion shaft; it shall be without shutoff valves and be arranged to discharge to a suitable
tank. The supply pipe shall contain a shutoff valve, shall enter the washer above the
discharge level, and shall discharge away from the door opening.
4. Individual button and lint traps shall be provided for each dry cleaning unit.
5. Dry cleaning units shall be constructed with sufficient clearance between the
cylinder or basket and the outer casing to prevent the striking or rubbing of parts of the
rotating cylinder against the outer casing.
Drying tumblers and drying cabinets shall be ventilated to the outside air or to a
solvent recovery system by means of properly constructed pipes or ducts connected to an
exhaust fan of sufficient capacity to remove all dust, vapors, or lint generated by the
process. The fan shall be properly housed and interlocked so as to ensure operation while
the drying tumbler is in use.
F. Filters:
2. Pressure type filters shall be equipped with a reliable pressure gauge which shall
be regularly checked for accuracy. Filters shall not be operated at pressures exceeding
that recommended by the manufacturers.
3. Pressure filters shall be provided with an air bleeding valve and line connected to
discharge into the washer or into the storage tank vent line. Such air bleeding lines shall
not discharge into the room.
4. Filters shall be equipped with pressure relief devices which will prevent the
pressure within the filter from rising more than 10 percent above the working pressure of
the filter. The relief device shall not be smaller than three-fourths inch pipe size and shall
discharge into an underground tank or aboveground base tank of a dry cleaning unit
without a shutoff valve in the line.
G. Stills:
1. Atmospheric solvent stills shall be constructed to prevent hot solvent vapor from
escaping into the room when operated under normal conditions and at rated capacity.
2. Stills shall be equipped with solvent aftercoolers to lower the distilled solvent
temperature to less than 100°F. before returning the solvent to the dry cleaning system.
H. Operation:
4. Proper maintenance and operating practices for the entire dry cleaning plant shall
be adhered to which will prevent leakage of solvent and the accumulation or lint.
5. The lint and refuse shall be removed from all traps after the close of the working
day and deposited in approved metal containers with tight-fitting metal lids. At all other
times the trap covers shall be kept securely in place.
I. Fire Protection:
Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of
Division 140 of this article.
The provisions of this section shall regulate Class V dry cleaning plants in which the
dry cleaning is conducted by the public.
A. General Requirements:
2. Only solvents approved for Class V installations shall be used in the dry cleaning
machines.
4. Solvent storage and treatment tanks and all interior steel surfaces which tend to
corrode when exposed during ordinary operation to solvent and to air alternately shall be
protected against corrosion. Pumps, filters, or any closed containers ordinarily
completely filled with solvent, or steam coils or chests immersed in solvent or which
ordinarily do not tend to corrode, may be constructed of carbon steel without corrosion
protection.
5. Exhaust ventilation ducts from equipment shall extend above the roof line unless
leading directly into a solvent recovery system.
1-3
250
4-8
200
9-16
150
17 or More
100
This exhaust ventilation shall be provided continuously while the plant is open for
business. The exhaust fan shall be interlocked so that the dry cleaning units cannot be
operated unless the fan is in operation. A supply of make-up air equal to or greater than
the total volume of air exhausted shall be provided for the customer area.
3. All electrical devices and wiring shall be installed in accordance with the
requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
4. Air for combustion for gas and oil-fired devices shall come through ducts from a
clean source of air outside the building when such devices are located in the dry cleaning
room.
2. Only the front (customer) side of the dry cleaning unit shall be exposed in the
customer area. The working or maintenance portion of the units shall be separated in a
service area by an approved partition. Access doors to the service area shall be kept
locked.
4. A satisfactory means of preventing solvent leaks from escaping the dry cleaning
units area shall be provided. A curb on the floor near the base of the unit or a metal pan
around the unit shall be provided which will hold the volume of liquid equal to the
maximum quantity of solvent in the unit.
5. Filter residue and other residues containing solvent shall be handled and disposed
of in approved covered metal containers with tight-fitting metal lids.
6. Stills shall be constructed so as to prevent hot solvent vapor from escaping into
the room.
E. Operation:
2. An interlock system shall be provided to prevent the loading door of the unit
from being opened during the entire dry cleaning cycle.
3. The unit shall be designed so that no significant amount of solvent is left in the
cleaned garments at the end of the drying cycle.
4. Proper maintenance of the dry cleaning units shall be provided daily to prevent
solvent leakage and lint accumulation.
F. Fire Protection:
Section
57.80.04 Glass.
57.80.05 Size.
Exhaust Systems
Ducts
57.80.32 Seams.
57.80.33 Insulating.
57.80.34 Supports.
57.80.50 General.
57.80.60 Repair.
57.80.61 Cleaning.
57.80.62 Scraping.
Quantity of Class I, II, and IIIA Liquids at Spray Booths, Rooms, or Tunnels
57.80.81 Location.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. A spray room, spray booth, or spray tunnel is not required for decorating or
painting the interior surfaces of any building or for the spraying of articles for which the
use of a spray room, spray booth or spray tunnel is impracticable, provided:
b. The residue of vapors from such spraying will not occasion a fire hazard to life or
property.
2. A spray room, spray booth, or spray tunnel is not required when the spraying of
anything is done outside of any building or structure, provided:
a. Such spraying is done in such a location and manner that the discharge of
explosive or flammable vapors or, residues therefrom or a fire in connection therewith
will not endanger life or property, and,
Spray finishing operations shall only be carried on in locations approved by the Chief.
No spray booth or spray tunnel of less than one-hour fire-resistive construction shall be
located closer than 12 inches to any building wall or other portion of a building which is
of less than one-hour fire-resistive construction.
EXCEPTION:
The interior surface of all spray booths or spray tunnels, including the interior surface
of any air exhaust ducts or pipes in connection therewith shall have a smooth finish.
Glass used in the construction of a spray booth or spray tunnel shall be wire glass not
less than one-fourth inch in thickness or a glass having an equal fire-resistive rating, set
in a metal frame or sash, but in no event shall the total square foot area of glass in any
one ceiling or side of any room, booth or tunnel be more than 20 percent of the total area
of the ceiling or side in which the glass is mounted.
Every spray booth and spray tunnel shall be of a size, character and design to
adequately meet the needs of the services for which they are intended, and all things
being sprayed shall be placed far enough within rooms, booths or tunnels that the vapor
and residue produced shall be effectively removed by the exhaust system.
Baffle plates or distribution plates used in any spray booth or spray tunnel shall be of
noncombustible material and installed so as to be readily removed to facilitate the
cleaning of such plates and all parts of rooms, booths or tunnels.
Every spray room shall be constructed and protected by an automatic sprinkler system
as required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M C. (Building Code and Plumbing Code).
A Permit shall be required under Division 5 of this article to erect, install, or relocate
spray booths or spray tunnels with any dimension greater than three feet.
EXCEPTION:
A. Filter pads shall not restrict the required air flow through the booth. Filter pads
shall be inspected regularly and replaced when they become clogged.
B. Filters shall not be used when spraying materials known to be highly susceptible
to spontaneous heating. Discarded filter pads shall be removed to a safe location.
All electrical equipment within any spray area shall comply with the requirements of
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
SEC. 57.80.12. SOURCES OF IGNITION.
Smoking, open flames or other sources of ignition shall not be located within 25 feet
of any open face spray booth unless separated by a partition or vapor barrier wall of at
least the height of the spray booth.
EXCEPTION.
Hanging space heaters located a minimum of 12 feet above the floor, a minimum of 3
feet above the booth, and a minimum of 10 feet from the face of the booth.
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
Every spray room, spray booth, or spray tunnel shall be provided with an exhaust
system of ventilation equipped with the necessary ducts or pipes extending from such
room, booth, or tunnel to a location outside of the building as hereinafter provided.
C. Every booth equipped with a recovery system using a water spray or solution
tank shall comply with all requirements of this article governing spray application of
flammable liquids.
D. Each spray booth shall have an independent exhaust duct system except as
provided in Section 57.80.30. If more than one fan serves a single booth, all such fans
shall be interconnected so that one cannot operate without operating all.
DUCTS
SEC. 57.80.30. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
Each spray room, spray booth or spray tunnel shall have one or more exhaust ducts or
pipes. Such air exhaust ducts or pipes shall be independent of any other ventilating,
exhaust or other type of duct or pipes or chimneys. Ducts shall terminate in approved
locations outside buildings.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Not more than three spray booths, each with six square feet or less frontal area,
may be connected to or manifolded into one main exhaust duct or pipe used only for
spray booth exhaust purposes.
2. Not more than two spray booths of any other size may be connected to or
manifolded into one main exhaust duct or pipe used for spray booth exhaust purposes.
Every duct or pipe shall be constructed of galvanized metal sheets in accordance with
the provisions of Table 80-A.
TABLE 80-A
Up to 8
24
Over 8 inches to 18
22
Over 18 inches to 30
20
Over 30
18
All seams in any duct or pipe shall be made tight by crimping or other equally
efficient manner without the use of solder or combustible materials, and all sections shall
be securely joined.
2. 28 gauge sheet metal on one-eighth inch insulating mill board spaced out one inch on
noncombustible spacers 9 inches
3. 22 gauge sheet metal on one inch rockwool bats reinforced with wire mesh or the
equivalent 3 inches
Every length of duct shall be securely and substantially attached to the building.
Every such duct or pipe projecting more than four feet above the roof of the building, or
which has a joint in such duct or pipe above the roof shall be securely guyed or braced.
Every branch duct or pipe shall be connected to the main duct or pipe at an angle not
exceeding 45 degrees measured from the center line of the main duct or pipe. Every bend,
turn or elbow in any duct or pipe shall be constructed as not to reduce the cross sectional
area of the duct or pipe. Every change in cross section of any such duct or pipe shall be
by means of a transition fitting having a slope or taper of not more than one inch for each
four inches in length of the said duct or pipe.
Exhaust ducts shall be designed to provide sufficient air transport velocity to prevent
the overspray from settling in the duct.
Exhaust duct discharge points shall be not less than six feet from any combustible
exterior wall or roof and shall not discharge in the direction of any combustible
construction, or unprotected opening in any noncombustible exterior wall, that is within
25 feet of the discharge point.
The supply of air entering a spray room, or entering rooms where spray booths or
spray tunnels are located shall be substantially equivalent to the exhaust capacity
provided by all equipment in such rooms, booths or tunnels.
The fan motors shall not be installed inside of spray rooms, spray booths or spray
tunnels nor shall any belt or chain-driven apparatus be inside any such rooms, booths,
tunnels, ducts or pipes unless such belt or chain or any pulley in connection therewith is
entirely enclosed and grounded, or unless otherwise approved for the specific application
and location by the Chief.
In the event more than one fan motor is used in such exhaust system of ventilation of
any one spray room, spray booth or spray tunnel, there shall be a common control switch
to operate both the exhaust fan and the spraying equipment.
Fans shall be mounted on a shaft sufficiently heavy to maintain perfect alignment even
when the blades of the fans are coated with residue. Bearing shall be of the self-
lubricating type or shall be lubricated from outside of the duct or pipe.
Spray booths, rooms or other enclosures used for spraying operations shall not
alternately be used for the purpose of drying by any arrangement which will cause a
material increase in the surface temperature of the spray booth, room or enclosure.
No heating device shall be located, installed, maintained or used in any spray room.
For comfort of persons working within the spray room or spray booth, heating appliances
of indirect type may be installed on the outside of such booths or rooms for the purpose
of introducing heat inside thereof, provided the temperature does not exceed 120°F. at the
warm air inlet to the booth or tunnel and that location and arrangement of the heating
appliance and the method of heat introduction into said room is first approved.
All spray rooms, spray booths and spray tunnels and all equipment therefor, and any
ducts or pipes in connection therewith shall be maintained at all times in good repair. No
person shall make any alterations or repairs thereon or thereto, nor permit them to be
made, before any such rooms, booths or tunnels and all equipment, ducts and pipes in
connection therewith have been thoroughly cleaned of residue and made gas and vapor
free.
SEC. 57.80.61. CLEANING.
All spray rooms, spray booths and spray tunnels, and ducts, pipes, fans, motors and
other apparatus in connection therewith shall be at all times kept free from deposits of
residue.
The scraping of any residue from any surface shall be done only with a non-sparking
scraper or instrument.
Blowing down the interior of spray rooms, spray booths or spray tunnels with
compressed air, even while the forced ventilation system is in operation, shall be
prohibited.
The interior surfaces of all spray rooms, spray booths and spray tunnels shall be
thoroughly cleaned of all sprayed residue before changing from the use of a paint or other
flammable liquid not containing lacquer to the use of a lacquer or other liquid containing
pyroxylin, or before changing from one material to another in reverse order of that above
set forth.
No person shall use a spray booth for alternately spraying a flammable liquid and
hydrogen peroxide or other oxidizing or bleaching solution. A separate booth shall be
provided for the latter operations.
The use of flammable solvents for cleaning operations is prohibited. Solvents for
cleaning operations shall have flash points above 100°F. All cleaning operations inside
the spray booth shall be conducted with the ventilation system in operation.
All scrapings and sweepings of residue from any spray room, spray booth or spray
tunnel shall be immediately placed in all metal containers and be removed from the
building.
Not more than 20 gallons of Class I, II and IIIA liquid may be supplied to each spray
booth by gravity flow. Any container holding such liquid shall be approved and shall not
be over a 10 gallon capacity. Such containers shall have closed automatic venting covers
and an automatic closing valve on the discharge outlet. Containers not resting on floors
shall be on metal supports or suspended by wire cables.
B. When Class I and II liquids are transferred from one container to another, both
containers shall be grounded.
C. Piping supplying Class I, II and IIIA liquids, to which there is attached a flexible
hose, shall be equipped with a manual shutoff valve where the hose is connected to the
pipe. Such valve shall be closed when system is not in use.
The quantity of Class I, II and IIIA liquids in a spray area shall not exceed the amount
permitted by Section 57.30.30 of this article. Bulk storage of portable containers of Class
I, II and IIIA liquids at or near a spray area, not otherwise permitted by this Division, is
prohibited.
A. Every spray booth or spray tunnel installed in any building shall be protected by
an approved automatic fire extinguishing system.
B. Where automatic sprinklers protect a spray booth and its exhaust duct, there shall
be a separate indicating valve, of the outside screw and yoke type, at an accessible
location.
C. Approved portable fire extinguishers shall be installed near all spray areas in
accordance with Division 140 of this article.
A. Spray booths, spray tunnels or spray rooms shall be located in Group B-2 or H
occupancies.
EXCEPTION:
Spray booths and spray tunnels may be located outside in zones approved by the
LAMC (Zoning Code) and shall comply with all other requirements of this section.
B. Spray booths and spray tunnels located outside shall not be adjacent to nonrated
buildings or within ten feet of openings into buildings or within five feet of property
lines.
DIVISION 81
DIP TANKS
Section
57.81.01 Construction.
57.81.02 Location.
Related Equipment
57.81.12 Conveyors.
57.81.16 Ventilation.
57.81.17 Electrical.
A. Dip Tank: Tanks shall be constructed of iron or steel, and all seams shall be
made liquid tight by welding or crimping without the use of solder. Minimum metal
thickness shall be as set forth in Table 81-A.
TABLE 81-A
5 to 60
18
Over 60 to 275
14
B. Supports:
3. Tanks over 120 gallons capacity shall have noncombustible supports of at least
two-hour fire-resistive construction.
5. In no case shall the weight of the tank and contents exceed the designed floor
load, unless independent structural supports are provided which are designed and
constructed in conformance with the provisions of Chapter 9, Article 1, of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code). (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
No dip tank shall be located, installed, maintained, or used in any building or room
except in an approved location as follows:
B. The top of every dip tank shall extend at least 12 inches above the surrounding
floor or grade level.
C. Every dip tank shall be separated from every source of ignition by a distance of
25 feet or more or shall be in a separate room of one-hour fire-resistive construction with
a self-closing fire door.
Dip tanks with more than 150 gallons capacity or more than five square feet of surface
area shall have a Permit as required by Division 5 of this article.
RELATED EQUIPMENT
Drain boards, hoods, conveyors, and other appurtenances used in connection with any
dip tank shall be of noncombustible material, and shall be constructed in such a manner
as to not interfere with the operation of any cover hereinafter required, nor permit water
to flow into any such tank.
Every dip tank shall be equipped with a tight-fitting noncombustible type cover which
will close automatically in case of fire. Such cover shall be capable of manual operation
and shall be kept closed when not in use.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Dip tanks not exceeding 10 gallons capacity may be equipped with self-closing
covers or manually operated covers.
2. Automatic closing operation of such covers may be waived when the nature of
the process or the presence of conveyors or the nature of the material in process makes
the installation or use of such heat-actuated automatic closing covers impracticable, but
such dip tanks shall be provided with substantial metal covers by which such tanks may
be closed when not in use and shall be provided with an automatic fire extinguishing
system.
3. Aluminum, magnesium, or titanium shall not be used for dip tank covers.
Dip tanks operated in conjunction with a conveyor system shall be so arranged that in
the event of fire, the conveyor system will stop automatically and any required bottom
drains will open automatically.
B. Where the liquid surface area of the dip tank and drain board is over 75 but not
more than 150 square feet, the diameter of overflow pipe shall be not less than four
inches; over 150 but not more than 225 square feet, not less than five inches; and if over
225 square feet, not less than six inches.
C. Every drain pipe and overflow pipe shall be equipped with an approved liquid
trap. A common liquid trap may be installed to serve both the drain pipe and overflow
pipe where the same are manifolded to form a common drain above such trap.
A. Every dip tank having a capacity in excess of 500 gallons shall be equipped with
a bottom drain capable of automatically and manually draining the tank to a safe location
or to a salvage tank in the event of fire.
B. According to tank capacity, the diameter of bottom drains shall not be less than
the following:
C. The capacity of a salvage tank shall be greater than the capacity of the dip tank
or tanks to which they are connected.
A. Dip tanks exceeding 20 gallons capacity shall not be used or maintained on any
combustible floor.
A. Every dip tank that requires a Division 5 Permit shall be equipped with an
approved mechanical ventilation system of sufficient capacity to confine the formation of
a hazardous atmosphere to within five feet of the vapor source. Ducts used for the
ventilation of hazardous atmospheres shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 9,
Article 5, of the L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code). (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff.
8/20/94.)
B. Dip tanks and all equipment and appurtenances thereto shall be electrically
bonded and grounded in a manner to prevent the accumulation of dangerous static
electrical charges.
When dip tank liquids are heated either by the dipping of heated articles or by
application of heat to the liquid, the following controls shall be provided to prevent
excessive temperature, vapor accumulation, and autoignition:
B. Heating and cooling units for liquids shall be of an approved type and
maintained in good repair.
C. Parts shall not be dipped if their surface temperature is within 100°F. of the
autoignition temperature of the dip tank liquid.
SEC. 57.81.19. SOURCE OF IGNITION.
No dip tank or drain board shall be located, maintained, or used within 25 feet of
travel of any open flame or other source of ignition except when such open flame or
source of ignition is shielded or enclosed in a manner approved by the Chief.
All floors and other portions of the premises around the dip tank and all drain boards,
hoods, covers, conveyors, and other appurtenances used in connection with the dip tank,
including the exterior surface of such tank, shall receive such periodical cleaning as is
necessary to maintain them free from deposits of residue.
A. Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems: Every dip tank having a liquid surface
area exceeding 10 square feet or a capacity exceeding 150 gallons, and any drain board in
connection therewith shall be equipped with an automatic fire extinguishing system
complying with Division 141 of this article.
Section
57.82.03 Tanks.
Except as modified herein, all standards in this article for spray tunnels and dip tanks
shall regulate flow coat operations.
B. Construction
2. The Chief may approve other materials for the construction of flow coat tunnels
provided they have equal strength and heat-resisting qualities of 18 gauge steel.
A. Pumps – Pumps and motors shall be approved for the material being used.
Pumps shall have a relief valve or other provision to keep the pump pressure from
exceeding 125 percent of the design-working pressure of the pump.
B. Piping – All pumps and piping shall be strongly erected and rigidly supported
and shall be tested to one and one-half times the maximum working pressure to which it
may be subjected.
A. Material Tanks – Material tanks shall be constructed of iron or steel and all
seams shall be made liquid tight without the use of solder. Each material tank shall be
equipped with a permanently installed or self-closing metal cover. Minimum metal
thicknesses shall be as set forth in Table 82-A.
TABLE 82-A
5
-
60
gallons
18 gauge
61
-
275
gallons
14 gauge
276
-
550
gallons
12 gauge
551
-
1100
gallons
10 gauge
B. Sump or Catch Basin – The sump shall have a capacity at least equal to the entire
quantity of paint and thinner used in the machine at any one time. The sump shall be in
the floor of the flow coat tunnel and the floor shall be designed to return all surplus paint
to the sump.
C. Salvage Tanks – Every flow coat system having a capacity in excess of 500
gallons shall be equipped with a drain pipe and salvage tank installed beneath the tunnel
according to the requirements of Section 57.81.14. The capacity of this tank shall be 25
percent in excess of the capacity of the flow coat system. Each salvage tank shall be
equipped with an adequate vent to the outside atmosphere. Minimum metal thickness
shall be as set forth in Table 82-A.
Flow coat equipment shall be maintained and cleaned in the same manner as spray
booths. Particular attention shall be given to the maintenance of piping, pumps, valves,
and fire control devices.
1. An interlock device between the pump motor and the exhaust system, to prevent
the pump from being in operation when the exhaust system is not.
2. Interlock devices and fusible links as necessary to assure that in case of fire the
following will occur:
3. An interlock device to assure that if the conveyor is halted, any drying lights or
ovens will not continue to heat the stopped articles.
C. Sources of Ignition:
1. Open-flame and other sources of ignition shall be at least 25 feet from flow coat
booths or tunnels.
2. Electrical equipment and wiring shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 9
of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
DIVISION 83
ELECTROSTATIC SPRAYING AND POWDER COATING
Section
57.83.01 Scope.
57.83.02 Safeguards.
57.83.03 Ventilation.
57.83.04 Maintenance.
The provisions of this division shall regulate the safe operation, ventilation,
maintenance, and fire protection necessary for electrostatic spraying and powder-coating.
Approval for installation of electrostatic spraying and powder-coating apparatus and
devices shall be in accordance with Division 5 of this article (Spray Booths) and the
requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
A. Electrostatic Spraying:
2. Drip Plates: Drip plates and screens subject to paint deposits shall be removable
and shall be taken to a safe place for cleaning.
B. Powder-Coating Dust
Temporary electrostatic spraying and powder coating locations which are not required
to have a Permit under Division 5 of this article shall be regulated under Special Permit
issued by the Chief.
All areas used for electrostatic spraying and powder-coating, shall be protected by an
automatic fire extinguishing system and shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers
in accordance with Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 84
DRYING OVENS
Section
General Installation
57.84.01 Scope.
57.84.02 Location.
57.84.03 Separation.
57.84.04 Construction.
57.84.05 Insulation.
57.84.06 Mounting.
57.84.12 Seams.
57.84.13 Insulation.
57.84.14 Supports.
57.84.18 Dampers.
Ventilation
Pre-drying
Maintenance
57.84.51 Cleaning.
Fire Protection
GENERAL INSTALLATION
The provisions of this division shall regulate drying ovens which are not an integral
part of a building or room. Drying ovens, not specifically regulated in this division shall
be constructed, installed, and maintained, in compliance with the provisions of L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 7 of this article.
No drying oven shall be located as to expose groups of persons to injury in case of fire
or explosion. Such ovens shall be located at least 50 feet from any recreational area,
lunch room, meeting room, or other place where personnel may gather, or shall be
separated by a wall of at least one-hour fire-resistive construction.
No part of any drying oven shall be located less than six feet from any flow coating
operation or dip tank, nor shall any flame producing device used in connection with such
ovens be located within 25 feet of travel of a dip tank, flow coater, or entrance of a spray
booth, spray tunnel, or spray room.
The walls, roof panels, or other exposed surfaces of every drying oven shall be
sufficiently insulated as to prevent the outside surface temperature from exceeding
160°F. In lieu of such insulation, the Chief may approve for existing ovens, guards, or
barriers designed to protect personnel and combustible materials from contact with such
heated surface.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. Drying ovens which are set on legs which provide not less than 18 inches open
space under the base of the oven, may be mounted on floors other than as specified above
provided there is at least one sheet metal baffle between any burners and the floor, and
provided the oven is so arranged that flame or hot gases do not come in contact with its
base.
3. Drying ovens which are set on legs which provide not less than four inches open
space under the base of the oven may be mounted on floors other than as specified above
provided the oven is so arranged that flame or hot gases do not come in contact with its
base, and further provided the floor under the oven is protected with hollow masonry not
less than four inches in thickness, covered with sheet metal of not less than 24 gauge.
Such masonry course shall be laid with ends unsealed and joints matched in such a way
as to provide a free circulation of air from end to end through the masonry.
4. Drying ovens may be mounted on floors other than specified above, provided the
floor under the oven is protected by two courses of four inch hollow clay tile, or
equivalent, with courses laid at right angles and with ends unsealed and joints matched in
such a way as to provide a free circulation of air through such masonry courses, and
covered with steel plate of not less than three-sixteenths inch in thickness.
Vent pipes from the combustion chamber of indirect fired ovens shall be independent
of the safety ventilation system of the oven. Vent pipes from the direct fire type ovens
may be manifolded as provided in Section 57.84.15 of this article.
Every vent pipe shall be constructed of galvanized iron or steel having minimum
metal thicknesses as set forth in Table 84-A.
TABLE 84-A
More than 30
Not less than 16
SEC. 57.84.12. SEAMS.
All seams in any such vent pipe shall be made tight by crimping or in some other
equally efficient manner without the use of solder and all sections shall be securely
joined.
A. No portion of any vent pipe (other than hubs and flanges) shall be installed less
than 12 inches from combustible material except as provided in Subsections B or C of
this section.
B. A vent pipe may be installed not less than three inches from combustible
material if the vent is from an oven which is an indirect fired, non-recirculating type, in
which no part of the oven atmosphere is circulated through and discharged from the
heating unit.
C. A vent pipe may be installed not less than three inches from combustible
material if one of the following methods of protection is provided.
a. A ventilated collar containing at least one-inch air space (not permitted in fire
walls); or
a. Metal lath and plaster not less than three-quarters inch thickness; or
Every length of such vent pipe shall be securely and substantially supported. Every
such vent pipe shall extend at least three feet above the roof of any building within 15
feet, and if it projects more than four feet above the roof of the building, or has a joint in
such vent pipe above the roof, it shall be securely guyed or braced.
Every branch duct or vent pipe shall be connected to the main duct or pipe at an angle
not exceeding 45 degrees measured from the center line of the main duct or pipe. Every
bend, turn, or elbow in any duct or pipe shall be a minimum center line radius of not less
than one and one-half times the diameter or minimum width of such turn or elbow.
Every change in cross section of any such duct or pipe shall be by means of a transition
fitting having a slope or taper of not more than one inch for each four inches in length of
the said duct or pipe.
Vent pipes handling fumes which leave a combustible deposit shall be provided with
cleanout doors at intervals not exceeding 20 feet, and at closer intervals where necessary
to permit thorough cleaning. All cleanout openings in any such vent pipes shall be
equipped with tight-fitting sliding or hinged doors constructed of metal which is equal to
or greater in thickness than the vent pipe. Hinged doors shall be equipped with a
substantial latch holding the door tightly closed.
Hand holes for damper, sprinkler, or fusible link inspection or resetting and for
purposes of residue cleanout shall be equipped with tight-fitting doors or covers provided
with substantial latches, except in the case of vertical sliding doors held in place by
gravity.
Dampers in the ducts which affect the volume of fresh air admitted to, and vapors or
gases exhausted from the oven shall be so designed that when in closed position they will
pass the volume required for safe ventilation.
VENTILATION
Every drying oven shall be provided with a ventilation system of sufficient capacity to
prevent the formation of a hazardous atmosphere within the oven.
Dipped materials in batch process ovens shall require a minimum rate of exhaust
ventilation of 380 cfm (referred to 70°F.) per gallon flammable volatiles in the batch.
A. All exhaust from the oven shall be by mechanical means using power driven fans
or blowers which shall operate continuously while the oven is in operation.
B. Each oven shall be equipped with individual exhaust systems not connected to
exhausts serving other equipment.
EXCEPTION:
Ovens which are divided into several small compartments or groups of small
individual ovens may be exhausted by a common exhaust fan if approved by the Chief.
Ovens shall have the ventilation fans electrically interlocked in such a manner as to
prevent operation of the heating units unless the exhaust fans are running.
The ventilating system in any oven in which flammable vapors or gases may collect
from the act of drying materials in the oven or from unburned fuel in a direct fired oven
shall be operated until at least four complete changes of air have been made before the
burner ignition system may be operated, fuel turned on, or the conveyor operated.
Every duct through which air or vapors may travel from the heating unit to its exhaust
to the outside atmosphere shall be galvanized iron or steel. Every duct through which
vapors are discharged from the oven shall be installed in accordance with provisions of
this division.
A. Every drying oven shall be equipped with unobstructed relief vents for freely
relieving internal explosion pressure. Vents shall be retained by gravity or approved door
catches and shall afford insulation as required for the panels in which they are placed.
B. The ratio of the total area of the vents shall be not less than one square foot of
relief panel to each 15 cubic feet of oven volume.
C. Explosion vents shall be so installed that they will open fully and shall not be
blocked in any way to impede their action. They shall be so located as to minimize the
danger of injury to persons or property.
PRE-DRYING
All material after being coated with materials having volatile solvents shall first enter
a pre-drying zone, cabinet, or tunnel in order that all drippings and most of the flammable
vapors will be removed at moderate temperatures before entering any drying oven.
Vapors from such pre-drying zone in connection with any continuous process oven
shall be removed by mechanical means as provided in Section 57.84.20.
Every oven shall be equipped with the necessary manual and automatic devices for
fire and life safety as required by the Chief.
Every safety control device shall be designed and installed so that in the event of
failure of the device itself, unsafe conditions will not be created.
A. Purge Control – A time relay for pre-ventilation shall be provided which shall be
sufficient to permit four complete air changes before burners can be lighted. In batch
process ovens, doors must be inter-connected in such a manner that they must be open
during the purge period. Such relay shall be arranged to reset instantly to the starting
position when the current supply is interrupted.
E. Safety Fuel Valve – The above safety controls shall be interlocked with the main
fuel supply including the pilot by a safety valve which shall be normally closed. This
valve shall be used for safety shutoff service only and shall be independent of the
temperature control valve.
MAINTENANCE
All drying ovens, equipment, and any ducts or pipes in connection therewith shall be
maintained at all times in good repair. No person shall make any alterations or repairs
thereon or thereto, nor permit them to be made before any such ovens and all equipment,
ducts and pipes in connection therewith shall have been thoroughly cleaned of residue
and made gas and vapor free.
All drying ovens, ducts, pipes, fans, motors, and other apparatus in connection
therewith shall be at all times kept free from deposits of residue. The use of flammable
solvents for such cleaning is prohibited. The scraping of any residue from any surface
shall be done only with a nonferrous scraper or instrument. Such scraping shall be
immediately placed in all metal containers and shall be removed from the building.
The owner, or his agent or lessee, or operator of any drying oven shall make a check
of all safety control equipment at least once every 30 days to determine whether such
controls are in a satisfactory working condition. A written record of the findings of such
check or tests shall be maintained and shall be available for inspection by the Chief.
Whenever it is found that the reaction period has increased beyond the permissible time
limit, or the device has become coated with residue or corroded, or the moving parts have
become stiff and not operating freely, or any other condition exists which might impede
the proper functioning of the safety device; the same shall be cleaned, lubricated, restored
to its original condition or replaced with a properly functioning device.
FIRE PROTECTION
The type of system for protection of ovens shall be specified by the Chief. All
required systems shall be installed as required by Division 141 of this article.
DIVISION 86
ROOFING KETTLES
Section
57.86.01 Scope.
57.86.09 Attendant.
57.86.10 Barriers.
The provisions of this division shall regulate roofing kettles used for preheating tar,
asphalt, pitch, or similar substances for roofs, streets, floors, pipes or similar objects.
There shall be at least one approved portable fire extinguisher with a rating of 20B:C
located not less than 10 feet nor more than 30 feet from every roofing kettle during the
period that the roofing kettle is in use, and there shall be one additional 20B:C portable
fire extinguisher located on the roof being covered.
A. Piping or tubing used to transfer heated material to the roof shall be Schedule 40
or equivalent. Flexible steel piping shall be of an approved type. Flexible piping shall
not be used anywhere in the system except at the connection immediately adjacent to the
pump or kettle and shall not exceed six feet in length.
B. Remote operated bypass valves used in a single supply line system shall be of a
fail-safe type which opens automatically if the control line or lanyard fails.
C. All piping shall be firmly supported at not more than 12-foot intervals.
Every kettle shall be equipped with a tight-fitting cover which is attached to the kettle
with hinges so as to allow for gravity closing of the cover. All kettle covers must be
closed and latched when in transit.
A responsible person shall be in attendance near the kettle at all times whenever a
kettle is in operation.
Roofing kettles shall be enclosed by a substantial barrier when used on the premises of
an institutional, educational, or assembly occupancy. This barrier shall be provided when
buildings are occupied or the work interferes with or violates public ways such as
sidewalks or streets. The barrier shall be at least 25 feet from the kettle and shall clearly
indicate that the enclosed area is restricted to use by authorized persons only.
A. Containers for fuel shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from the burner flame
or at least two feet when protected by a noncombustible insulated shield from burner
flame, secured in an upright position, and protected from mechanical damage.
B. Fuels Prohibited: No person shall use solid fuel or Class I flammable liquids as
fuel for a roofing kettle.
DIVISION 90
OIL WELLS
Section
57.90.10 Derricks.
A. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 50 feet from the nearest
side of any street.
B. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 50 feet from the
opposite side of any alley adjoining the outer boundary of the operating unit and 16 feet
from the nearest side of any alley passing through the operating unit.
C. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 50 feet from every
house trailer located within a trailer park.
D. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 50 feet from any
building less than 36 feet in height when such building has an aggregate floor area in
excess of 400 square feet. The minimum horizontal distance from the center of the oil
well casing to a building 36 feet or more in height shall be one and one-half times the
height of the building but need not exceed 200 feet. To determine the height of a
building, it shall be measured vertically from the adjacent ground elevation adjoining
such building to the ceiling of the top story.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to the derrick or any structure
used in conjunction with the drilling operation.
2. The distance separation between a building and an oil well may be reduced to:
a. 35 feet if a solid reinforced masonry wall not less than six feet high and six
inches thick is constructed between the oil well and all portions of the building which are
less than 50 feet from the oil well;
b. 25 feet if all walls of the building which are located less than 50 feet from the oil
well are of one-hour fire-resistive construction, have no openings, and are surmounted by
a three-foot parapet;
c. 15 feet if all walls of the building which are located less than 50 feet from the oil
well are of two-hour fire-resistive construction, have no openings, and are surmounted by
a three-foot high parapet.
E. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 200 feet from any
building used for the housing of human beings on any premises where there is located a
school, hospital, sanitarium, or assembly occupancy, nor within 200 feet of any public
utility fuel manufacturing plant, public utility electrical generating, receiving, or
distributing plant.
F. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 200 feet from every
gasholder exceeding 2,000 cubic feet.
G. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 200 feet from every
loading rack located on a bulk distributing station.
H. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 200 feet from every tank
or vessel containing hazardous materials, except tanks used exclusively for production
and shipping in connection with such oil wells.
I. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 50 feet from the fire box
opening of every stationary boiler, water heater, or gas fired separator.
J. The center of the oil well casing shall not be closer than 150 feet from the surface
location of any other oil well whether such well is producing or not. Closer spacing may
be permitted subject to terms and conditions specified by the Chief in writing; provided,
however, that the number of wells shall not exceed that number permitted by any law,
and in no case no more than one well shall be drilled for each net acre and the surface
location of any such well shall comply with all other spacing requirements of this
Section.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. This spacing shall not apply to any controlled drilling site in any oil drilling
district established in an urbanized area as set forth in Article 3, Chapter I, of the
L.A.M.C. (Zoning Code).
2. This spacing shall not apply to any Class “B” oil well used and maintained as
provided in this article.
Every operating unit shall consist of at least one acre of contiguous land. Parcels of
land interrupted by a street shall not be deemed to be contiguous. Where a parcel of land
consists of less than one net acre and is completely surrounded by streets, and where all
other provisions of this article with reference to location of oil wells can be complied
with, such parcel of land may be deemed an operating unit and one oil well permitted
thereon. Only one oil well shall be drilled for each net acre in the operating unit.
NOTE: For the purposes of this section an alley shall not be considered as being
included in the definition of “Street.”
A. The construction of every derrick used in conjunction with oil well drilling,
maintenance, or production shall comply with the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 23
or No. 24.
C. Not more than 60 days after the drilling of each well has been completed, and
said well placed on production or abandoned, the derrick, all boilers, and all other drilling
equipment shall be entirely removed from the premises and all sump holes filled. After
completion, the servicing of oil wells shall be done with portable derricks.
No portion of any pipe rack or loading platform shall be erected or constructed unless
there is provided a free and unobstructed clearance of not less than 12 feet from the
nearest line of any alley, public street, or highway.
EXCEPTION:
The provisions of this section shall not apply to any portable derrick or drilling
equipment used for redrilling or servicing any oil well.
Pump house floors, derrick floors, pipe racks, sills, postings, walkways, mud ditches,
calf, bull and band wheels on any derrick may be constructed of wood.
All tanks, piping, and loading racks used in connection with any oil well shall comply
with the applicable divisions of this article.
At every oil well producing in excess of 20,000 cubic feet of gas each 24 hours, there
shall be installed and maintained an approved oil and gas separator, unless the gas
produced from such oil well is separated from such oil in tanks equipped with an
approved vapor collecting system.
An approved legible sign bearing the name of the oil well, the operator thereof, and
his emergency telephone number shall be located and maintained on every oil well in a
place where it will be fully visible. There shall also be located and maintained on every
oil well a sign or plate as may be required by the Chief and provided by the Department,
showing such registration serial number as may be assigned to the oil well by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
Telephone emergency numbers will not be required on the sign at each well in the
case of properties under common operation and continuously supervised; nor where such
telephone numbers may be posted at the entrance to the property, or on the Permit which
may be posted at each oil well.
Pits used in connection with the drilling or maintenance of oil wells shall be of a
portable type and shall be removed immediately after drilling operations are completed.
Sumps and mud pits constructed as permanent facilities are prohibited.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Upon written application therefor, the Chief may approve the use of a mud pit not
exceeding 12 feet in any dimension, provided such pit is enclosed by a fence or other
suitable protection and is abandoned within 15 days after drilling or deepening operations
are complete.
2. Pump suction pits not exceeding six feet in any dimension may be used as
permanent facilities when enclosed by a fence or other suitable protection.
B. When two or more oil wells share a common cellar, such cellar shall be provided
with a fire protection system approved by the Chief.
C. Cellars more than five feet below grade shall be provided with noncombustible
stairs or ladders. Distance of travel to a stair or ladder shall not be more than 25 feet.
Aisles shall be a minimum of three feet in width to all ladders or stairs.
A. No person shall store or accumulate any dry weeds, grass, rubbish, or other
combustible materials or any waste, rubbish, or junk whether combustible or not, within a
radius of 50 feet from any oil well, derrick or tank, or any building, machinery, or
equipment used in the development, production, or storage of petroleum.
B. When any oil well is placed on production, all combustible materials of any kind,
except those necessary for the production or operation, shall be removed.
B. No person shall cause or permit any waste petroleum, petroleum refuse or waste
matter to remain on the surface of the ground, around or near any oil well, derrick, pump,
cellar, tank, oil pump, or combustible structure. This section does not prohibit the use of
petroleum in the control of erosion, weeds, or as road surfacing.
No person shall drill any oil well unless such well is equipped with blowout
preventers installed and maintained in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 45.
No person shall swab or bail any oil well not equipped with an approved oil saver.
A. No person shall use any open flame or other heat-producing sources capable of
igniting oil well vapors within 25 feet of any oil well or any tank used in connection with
any oil well. This provision does not apply to cutting or welding operations involving the
use of open flame provided that proper precautions are taken to prevent the ignition of
vapors or combustible materials, or to internal combustion engines used in connection
with operations of the well.
Oil wells shall be only lighted by electric lights that comply with Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
All piping, pressure and flow regulators, and other appurtenances used in connection
with fuel supply systems or gas systems for welding and cutting shall be of a type and
rating suitable for the service.
When an extraordinary fire hazard exists in relation to the operation of any oil well or
its attendant equipment and appurtenances, all operations incidental to the drilling for,
production, treating, or storage of Class I, II, and IIIA liquids shall cease until it is safe to
resume such operations. Under such conditions, the Chief may require the removal of
Class I, II, and IIIA liquids which constitute such a hazard from any tank or ground
depression to a safe location.
At all times when conducting drilling operations at an oil well, there shall be available
within 100 feet of such well not less than two portable fire extinguishers, each having a
20B:C classification in accordance with Division 140 of this article.
A. No person owning or having possession or control of any oil well within the City
shall maintain or allow to exist thereon any moving parts or machinery-in-use or intended
to be used at such oil well, unless such machinery or moving parts are securely enclosed
by an adequate noncombustible ventilated type security fence, screen, or housing
sufficient to prevent the entry of unauthorized persons. Such security fence or screen
shall be not less than five feet high, and if equipped with gates, such gates must not be
less than five feet high and equipped with adequate hardware to prevent the entry of
unauthorized persons. A single adequate security fence, screen, or housing may be used
to enclose more than one oil well. Security fences, screens, or housings required by this
subsection shall be approved by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
EXCEPTION:
The Chief may approve the omission of all or part of both the security fence and
collision barrier when, by such omission, the well head and appurtenances will not be
exposed to damage from moving vehicles, other heavy objects, or will not be accessible
to any unauthorized persons. The terms of any such approval shall be in writing and shall
become a condition of the Permit authorizing the installation, maintenance, and use of
such well head and appurtenances.
SUSPENDED OPERATIONS OR ABANDONMENT OF OIL WELLS
A. During the month of January of each year the owner, permittee, or other person
having control of any nonoperating oil well, as set forth in this subsection, shall make a
written report to the Fire Department of each nonoperating oil well.
1. Every oil well which is not operating or is not producing petroleum or natural gas
for a period of 90 consecutive days during the preceding calendar year.
2. Every oil well which is not operating or is not producing petroleum or natural gas
as of December 31st of the preceding calendar year.
3. Every oil well having a Special Permit of suspended operation issued under the
authority of Section 57.90.41.
B. The report of nonoperating oil wells shall identify each oil well reported and
shall state the date on which such cessation of operation or production occurred. More
than one oil well may be reported in a single report.
A. The Chief may grant a Special Permit for suspended operation of an oil well
when producing operations have ceased or have been curtailed for any of the reasons set
forth in this subsection.
4. The abandonment of the oil well would impose practical difficulties, unnecessary
hardships, or results inconsistent with reasonable and proper exploitation of petroleum or
natural gas deposits.
B. The permittee, owner of the premises, or the person having control of the oil and
gas rights thereof, desiring a Special Permit for suspended operation, shall file an
application therefor on forms provided by the Fire Department. Said application shall
state in detail the circumstances which preclude the operation and production of any such
oil well and the factual basis therefor, together with reasonable evidence that the oil well
is economically capable of producing petroleum or natural gas and shall also contain any
other pertinent representations as may be required by the Chief.
C. If the Chief determines that the request for suspended operation to be within the
spirit of this section, then a Special Permit for suspended operation shall be issued.
D. The duration of a Special Permit for suspended operation of an oil well shall be
for a fixed period of time set forth on the face of the Permit, but in no case for a period of
more than one year. The provision of this subsection shall not prohibit the renewal of a
Special Permit for suspended operation of an oil well, provided such renewal is within
the spirit and purpose of this section.
Every oil well which has not been operated or which has ceased to produce petroleum
or natural gas for a continuous period of 90 days shall be safeguarded in compliance with
the provisions of this section.
A. All storage of material, whether combustible or not, shall be removed from the
oil well site. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to approved tanks, boilers,
pumps, piping, valves, or other equipment, machinery, and facilities which are connected
together in a fixed position and form the operating equipment and arrangement for
normal oil production procedure.
B. Above-ground tanks, pipe line, oil and gas separators, dehydrating plants, or
pump suction pits, and other appurtenant equipment shall be freed of flammable vapors
or otherwise rendered safe by a qualified person.
C. Every such oil well shall be properly equipped with a head fitting and shut-off
valve capable of withstanding any pressure which may develop in the well. The shutoff
valve shall be maintained in a closed position and secured against unauthorized
tampering. Adequate provision shall be provided to allow the installation of a pressure
gauge in connection with vapor space of the well.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. The provisions of this section shall not apply to oil wells which are under regular
surveillance or the substantial equivalent thereto, such as by reason of drilling or
producing of wells or similar operational activities on the same premises.
2. For the purpose of this section, any Class B oil well shall be deemed to be in
operation when such well is physically connected by means of a suitably employable
manifold or piping system, to any oil well or wells or to any other operating equipment
wherein the Class B oil well is used as an integrated operational part thereof.
A. Any oil well which has not been secured in compliance with the provisions of
Section 57.90.42, or which, for a continuous period of one year has not been in operation
or has ceased to produce petroleum or natural gas shall be abandoned or reactivated
within 30 days after notice has been given by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any oil well for which a Special
Permit for suspended operation has been issued.
B. Written notice to abandon or restore the oil well to use shall be directed to the
owner of the oil well, the permittee, the owner of the premises, or the person having
control or possession thereof, and may be given in the manner set forth in Section 11.00
of the Municipal Code.
C. It shall be unlawful for any permittee or owner, lessee, or trustee or any other
person having control or possession of any oil well, to fail, refuse, or neglect to abandon
same after notice has been given to such person within the time provided in this section.
For the purpose of abandoning an oil well, the following shall apply to the person to
whom the notice is directed:
Neat cement may be used for the surface plug when installed by an approved
cementing company.
B. Every gravity tank, still, retort, blowdown stack, boiler, pump, gas lift, pipe line,
and all other appurtenances and machinery used in connection with any such oil well,
shall be dismantled and removed from the premises. All foundations and dikes shall be
demolished and removed. All pump suction pits, reservoirs, cellars, and catch basins
shall be filled with a good grade of earth or sand, and all such premises shall be restored
to their natural surface conditions.
The permittee or owner, lessee or trustee, or other person having control of any oil
well which is to be abandoned, or the agent designated by such person to perform the
abandonment work, shall notify the Chief of the time and place of such abandonment at
least 24 hours in advance of the time thereof, provided that when any Saturday and
Sunday or legal holiday, severally or collectively, precedes the intended abandonment
date, the Chief shall be notified on the last preceding working day his office is open for
business. No abandonment work required by this article shall be performed except in the
presence of the Chief.
Abandoned oil wells under structures or within ten feet of a structure shall be vented
to the atmosphere in a manner approved by the Chief.
DIVISION 91
NATURAL GASOLINE PLANTS AND REFINERIES
Section
57.91.07 Boilers.
A. 100 feet of any building not a part of such Refinery or Natural Gasoline plant
unless otherwise approved by the Chief.
A. Crude petroleum and other Class I, II and IIIA liquids having boil-over
characteristics shall be stored aboveground or underground in conformance with Division
31 of this article.
Process units shall be so located that they are accessible from at least one side for the
purposes of fire control. Where topographical conditions are such that oil may flow from
a processing area into another area so as to constitute a fire hazard, provision shall be
made to divert or contain such flow.
Every steam boiler outside of any building used in connection with petroleum
facilities shall be in an approved location and shall be maintained as required by the
Chief.
A. Sufficient hydrants and hose shall be provided to apply cooling streams to tanks
and process units threatened by fire. Water shall be available in sufficient pressure and
quantity to provide and supply said cooling streams.
B. Fire protection for storage tanks shall be provided in accordance with the
requirements of Division 141 of this article.
C. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided, distributed, and maintained in
accordance with the requirements set forth in Division 140 of this article.
A substantial fence at least five feet high shall be erected and maintained to
completely surround all parts of every Natural Gasoline Plant and every Refinery. A
sufficient number of gates shall be provided in such fence to permit reasonable access by
Fire Department equipment to such Refinery or Natural Gasoline Plant. The location and
construction of all such gates shall be subject to the approval of the Chief.
This division, other applicable divisions of this article and LAFD Standard No. 68
shall regulate hazardous materials in natural gasoline plants and refineries.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
DIVISION 92
BULK DISTRIBUTING STATIONS
Section
57.92.01 Scope.
57.92.02 Buildings.
57.92.03 Enclosures.
57.92.07 Drains.
57.92.08 Locations.
Loading Racks
57.92.13 Driveways.
57.92.15 Signs.
This division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate that portion of a property
where flammable or combustible liquids are received by tank vessel, pipeline, tank car, or
tank vehicle, and are stored or blended in bulk for the purpose of distributing such liquids
by tank vessel, pipeline, tank car, tank vehicle, or container.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
All buildings, loading racks, and structures used in connection with Class I or II
liquids handling at a Bulk Distributing Station shall be adequately ventilated and comply
with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building and Mechanical Code).
EXCEPTION:
Tank vehicles may be unloaded when outside of the fenced enclosure at those Bulk
Distributing Stations where the tank car and tank vehicle unloading facilities are
combined and are located outside of the fenced enclosure.
Containers, tanks, tank vehicles, tank cars, storage, handling and transferring of
flammable and combustible liquids shall conform to the requirements of applicable
sections of Divisions 30, 31, and 38 of this article.
Containers of Class I or II liquids shall not be filled or emptied within buildings unless
sufficient ventilation is provided to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors.
Where mechanical ventilation is required, it shall be kept in operation while flammable
vapors may be present.
Adequate means shall be provided to contain or divert any spill to a safe location.
Provision shall be made to prevent flammable or combustible liquids which may be
spilled at loading or unloading points from entering public sewers or drainage systems or
natural waterways. Connection to sewers, drains or waterways shall be provided with
separators adequate to prevent flammable or combustible liquids from entering sewers,
drains or waterways.
The location of every Bulk Distributing Station shall be approved by the Chief.
LOADING RACKS
Every loading rack for tank vehicles or tank cars shall be a separate structure and shall
be located AWAY from all other buildings or structures, property lines, streets, alleys,
pits, basements, or sources of ignition, in accordance with Table 92-A.
TABLE 92-A
Class I Liquids
Class II and III Liquids
From open flame and sources of ignition not a part of the operation
50 ft.
25 ft.
B. Filling through open domes into the tanks of vehicles or tank cars that contain
vapor-air mixtures within the flammable range, or where the liquid being filled can form
such a mixture, shall be by means of a downspout which extends near the bottom of the
tank.
A. An operating power control switch and a remote control switch shall be provided
in accordance with provisions of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
B. Valves used for the final control for filling tank vehicles shall be of the self-
closing type and manually held open, except when automatic means are provided for
shutting off the flow when the tank is full or after filling of a preset amount.
All driveways used in connection with any loading rack premises shall be hard
surface, and shall be so arranged that vehicles other than railroad cars can travel into or
out of the fenced enclosure of the premises in a forward motion.
A sign with letters at least six inches high, bearing the name of a person owning or
controlling the same, shall be installed and maintained in a conspicuous place on every
loading rack not a part of a Bulk Distributing Station that is otherwise readily
identifiable.
Section
57.93.02 Pumps.
57.93.03 Dispensing.
57.93.04 Pipelines.
57.93.06 Ventilation.
57.93.07 Personnel.
57.93.08 Signs.
Every transfer apparatus used or intended to be used for fueling marine vessels at
Marine Service Stations shall be designed, constructed, installed, and maintained in
accordance with the provisions of the approval for such apparatus.
EXCEPTION:
B. Where tanks are at an elevation which produces a gravity head on the dispensing
unit, the tank outlet shall be equipped with a device, such as a solenoid valve, positioned
adjacent to and downstream from the tank block valve, so installed and adjusted that
liquid cannot flow by gravity from the tank in case of piping or hose failure when the
dispenser is not in use.
SEC. 57.93.03. DISPENSING.
Dispensing of Class I, II, or IIIA liquids into the fuel tanks of marine vessels shall be
by means of an approved type hose, equipped with a listed self-closing nozzle and with a
valve which must be held open by manual control while making a fuel delivery.
B. A readily accessible valve to shut off the supply from shore shall be provided at
the shore end of each pipeline adjacent to the point where flexible hose is connected.
C. All piping shall be adequately grounded. Where floating docks are used for
dispensing fuel into the tanks of marine vessels, necessitating the use of flexible
connections in pipelines, such connections shall be electrically conductive or otherwise
grounded in an approved manner.
No open flames, flame producing devices, or other source of ignition not necessary to
the operation of the facility shall be located, brought or permitted within 50 feet of any
transfer apparatus at a Marine Service Station. Smoking shall be permitted only in an
approved location.
No person shall start the engine of a marine vessel following fueling operations until
after the engine room and other below deck spaces are thoroughly ventilated.
In addition to the station operator on the shore, pier, or wharf dispensing the fuel, at
least one competent person capable of moving the craft being fueled shall be aboard the
craft near the fueling nozzle during the entire operation.
Signs having letters at least three inches high on a contrasting background shall be
conspicuously posted at every Marine Service Station and shall state: “NO SMOKING
STOP ENGINE WHILE FUELING – DO NOT START ENGINE UNTIL AFTER
BELOW-DECK SPACES ARE VENTILATED.”
Section
In addition to all applicable sections of Divisions 40, 41, 42 and 44; every liquefied
flammable gas Bulk Distributing Station shall be entirely surrounded by a substantial
fence at least five feet high with adequate gates. No cargo tank vehicle or railroad
liquefied flammable gas tank car shall be loaded or unloaded at any Bulk Distributing
Station, unless it is completely within such fenced enclosure.
No cargo tank vehicle shall be propelled backwards from such enclosure into any
street, alley or public way. All driveways used in connection with any such liquefied
flammable gas Bulk Distributing Station shall be so arranged that vehicles other than
railroad cars can travel into or out of the fenced enclosure of such Bulk Distributing
Station only in a forward direction.
B. Both power control switches shall be conspicuously labeled with a legible sign
indicating the location and function thereof.
Cargo tank vehicles shall be filled only at a liquefied flammable gas Bulk Distributing
Station.
In addition to all applicable sections of this article, this division and LAFD Standard
No. 68 shall regulate the use, storage, and handling of hazardous materials.
If a conflict arises between the provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68,
the more restrictive shall apply.
No person shall fill any pressure vessel with liquefied flammable gas unless such
pressure vessel is approved for such use, nor shall any such pressure vessel be filled with
liquefied flammable gas having a vapor pressure in excess of the rated design pressure of
such pressure vessel; nor shall any person fill any such pressure vessel in excess of its
rated capacity.
SEC. 57.94.11. FILLING WITHOUT PERMITS.
No person shall fill any pressure vessel with liquefied flammable gas on any premises
where such pressure vessel is installed, unless there is a valid Permit pursuant to the
provisions of this article for the maintenance and use of such pressure vessel.
A. Mobile fuel tanks shall be filled only at an Auto Fueling Station having a valid
Permit issued by the Chief.
EXCEPTION:
The transfer of liquefied flammable gas from a cargo tank vehicle into mobile fuel
tanks of motor vehicles or equipment may be performed under Permit from the
Department pursuant to Division 5 of this article, provided:
1. The transfer operation is not performed where the public is invited or where there
is unusual exposure to life and property.
B. Mobile fuel tanks shall be filled only by the permittee or persons instructed in
methods of proper use and operation and who are qualified to use such liquefied
flammable gas dispensing apparatus. Each qualified operator shall be required to carry
on his person an identification card issued by the permittee verifying his competence.
1. Property lines.
For purposes of this section, “Dispenser” shall mean the point of termination of the
permanently fixed discharge pipe to which the discharge hose is affixed.
No person shall smoke or produce any open flame or other source of ignition within
25 feet of any liquefied flammable gas dispensing apparatus.
At least two portable fire extinguishers having not less than a 20B:C classification
shall be provided at every liquefied flammable gas Bulk Distributing Station. At least
two portable fire extinguishers having not less than a 10B:C classification shall be
provided at every Auto Fueling Station dispensing liquefied flammable gas and at every
Cylinder Filling Plant. One such portable fire extinguisher shall be located within 25 feet
of every dispenser.
DIVISION 95
MARINE OIL TERMINALS TANK VESSELS AND TANK BARGES
Section
57.95.01 Scope.
57.95.02 Application.
Foam Protection
On Board Vessels
Precautions – General
Personnel
Equipment
57.95.19 Valves.
57.95.28 Refusal.
57.95.40 Obstructions.
57.95.46 Docking.
57.95.52 Signals.
57.95.59 Vents.
57.95.60 Portable Fire Extinguishers.
If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.
A. The provisions of this division shall regulate the Master of any vessel and other
responsible ship’s officers on duty, the person designated as Superintendent of a Marine
Oil Terminal and his assistants, as well as other persons whose conduct is regulated
herein in the operation of Marine Oil Terminals and vessels while at Marine Oil
Terminals.
NOTE: Applicable provisions shall apply to tank barges whenever the term “tank
vessel” is used.
B. When the term “Terminal Superintendent” is used in this article, it shall include
his designated assistants.
Class 1: Any liquefied petroleum gas, including gases or mixture of gases produced
with or derived from petroleum or natural gas, and composed predominantly of
hydrocarbons or mixtures of hydrocarbons such as propane, propylene, butane, butylene
or butadiene.
Class 2: Any liquefied flammable gas other than liquefied petroleum gas.
Grade A: Any flammable liquid having a Reid Vapor Pressure of 14 pounds or more.
Grade B: Any flammable liquid having a Reid Vapor Pressure under 14 pounds and
over eight and one-half pounds.
Grade C: Any flammable liquid having a Reid Vapor Pressure of eight and one-half
pounds or less and a flash point of 80° F. or below.
Grade D: Any combustible liquid having a flash point below 150° F. and above 80° F.
Grade E: Any combustible liquid having a flash point of 150° F. but not over 200° F.
B. Any tank vessel on which the cargo tanks last contained Grade A, B, and C
products, and which have not been made gas-free, shall be classed as handling Grade A,
B, or C oils, regardless of the product being transferred.
C. Any Grade D or E product heated to or above its flash point shall be regulated
and handled under these regulations as a Grade C product without regard to its normal
grade or flash point.
For the purpose of the classification set forth in Section 57.95.03, an open-cup flash
point testing method shall be used. Closed-cup methods may be used, provided
equivalent flash points are determined as shown in Table No. 95-A.
(A.S.T.M.)
Pensky-Martens Closed-Cup Tester (A.S.T.M.)
º F.
º F.
º F.
80
75
—
150
—
140
Access, hydrants, and fire flow requirements for Marine Oil Terminals shall be
established per Division 9 of the Fire Code.
Sufficient standpipe outlets shall be located and installed so as to permit not less than
two hose streams to protect any point on the wharf when each said outlet is equipped with
not more than 350 feet of one and one-half inch fire hose. All standpipe outlets and fire
hose shall have National Standard threads.
The capacity of the water main supplying the required Class II standpipe outlets shall
be capable of supplying sufficient water to support the use of the two outlets
simultaneously, each having a discharge satisfactory to the Chief, through not less than a
five-eighths inch nozzle tip for the one and one-half inch fire hose attached to not less
than 100 feet of one and one-half inch fire hose. The Chief may permit the use of a
nozzle tip one-eighth inch less than specified. Dual purpose, fog and straight stream
nozzles in standard sizes may be used when approved by the Chief. Nozzle stream
horizontal reach of 50 feet shall be deemed satisfactory for straight stream nozzles.
Any one of the following means of providing approved fire protection equipment may
be considered a minimum requirement for the use of Marine Oil Terminal docks or
wharfs:
EXCEPTION:
Where Class II standpipe outlets are so spaced it will only be necessary to provide
hose on reels as to permit two hose streams to be brought together at any point on the
wharf and operated simultaneously. Approved hose reels shall be stored in a location
approved by the Chief, when such equipment is not in use during operations. Each hose
reel shall be equipped with a suitable hose and combination hydrant spanner attached to
the female end of hose.
FOAM PROTECTION
Facilities shall conform to requirements set forth in Division 141 of this article.
Where wet solution foam systems are used, there shall be a sufficient number of foam
solution outlets and hose on the wharf to provide a minimum of one effective foam line
for all portions of the wharf or tank vessel. The hose shall be immediately available on
the wharf or adjacent thereto when any tank vessel is being loaded. The hose shall be on
an approved hose reel, or as otherwise approved by the Chief.
ON BOARD VESSELS
If adequate water pressure is not available on board ship, connections shall be made to
shore lines to obtain adequate pressure. All outlets or shore connections shall be
provided with approved anti-contamination or backflow preventing devices acceptable to
the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
PRECAUTIONS – GENERAL
Smoking, use of matches, lighters, or open flames and operation of arcing or heat-
producing electrical appliances and equipment shall be prohibited when transferring
Grade A, B, C, or liquefied petroleum products, except that the Master may permit use of
such appliances, boiler fires, galley fires, and smoking in enclosed locations where the
same will not constitute a hazard. Smoking on deck shall be prohibited at all times.
Marine Oil Terminal facilities including wharfs shall be provided with security against
entry by unauthorized persons to the satisfaction of the Chief.
PERSONNEL
The operator of each Marine Oil Terminal located in the Los Angeles Harbor shall
certify in writing to the Chief, the name of the Terminal Superintendent designated to be
in direct charge of the operation of such marine terminal.
When the Terminal Superintendent departs from the premises, he shall be relieved by
a foreman or other competent employee, designated to then be in active charge of and
responsible for the operation of the marine terminal. There shall be someone actively on
duty at the terminal qualified to be in charge at all times when any operations are in
progress or any vessel is at the wharf.
It is the intent of this article that all persons performing duties and coordinating
operations therein regulated shall be sufficiently experienced and capable to perform with
competence and understanding in the interests of public safety.
EQUIPMENT
Electrical wiring, fixtures, and appliances within any Marine Oil Terminal, including
wharfs, shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
Oil pipe lines on petroleum wharfs shall be steel or wrought iron pipe of a grade
suitable for service, shall be reasonably protected against mechanical injury, and shall be
installed, supported, and maintained as necessary to safely withstand the stresses imposed
by internal and external loads and by contraction, expansion, vibration, or subsidence.
Pipe lines from the pump to the wharf shall be tested annually for tightness at a
pressure not less than 150 percent of the maximum pumping pressure. The Terminal
Operator shall certify in writing to the Chief, when and at what pressure the pipe lines
were tested. All piping installed, renewed, or rearranged between shore and petroleum
wharfs of timber construction shall be provided with approved means to permit
independent movement of the wharf or shore piping without excessive strain on the pipe.
Pipe lines carrying petroleum products shall be equipped with a minimum of three
approved valves located as follows:
One on the wharf, one within 200 feet of the shore bulkhead line, outside of any diked
area, accessible for emergency use and one at the source of supply. The valve at the
shore bulkhead line shall normally be open.
Pipe lines on petroleum wharfs shall be adequately bonded and grounded for
protection against stray electrical currents. Bonding and grounding connections on all
pipe lines shall be located on wharf side of insulating flanges, if used, accessible for
inspection.
Cargo pumps capable of building up pressures in excess of 125 pounds per square
inch on cargo hose shall be provided with bypasses, or other approved means of
preventing excessive pressure on cargo hose due to closed valves or obstruction in hose
lines. Relief devices shall be tested at least once each year to determine that they
function satisfactorily at the pressure at which they are set to operate
Each cargo hose shall be provided with a means of support which will prevent chafing
or kinking during transfer operations. All cargo hose shall be capable of withstanding a
pressure equal to the maximum working pressure of the system on which it is used.
Cargo hose shall be tested at least once each year at a pressure at least as great as the
pressure of the relief valve setting (or maximum pump pressure when no relief valve is
installed,) plus any static heat pressure of the system in which the hose is used, and a
record of such tests shall be maintained at the terminal.
The Terminal Superintendent shall cause the Operation Control Division of the Los
Angeles Fire Department to be notified by telephone of the approximate date and time
transfer operations of Grade A, B, C, D, E, or liquefied petroleum products are to begin
and the length of time such operations are expected to continue. Such notice shall be
given at least 24 hours before transfer operations begin with respect to a tank vessel. In
emergencies where 24 hours notice cannot reasonably be given, a shorter notice may be
given, but operations shall not begin without specific permission from the Chief.
Prior to starting pumps for transfer operations, the Master or the responsible tank
vessel officer and the Terminal Superintendent shall confer together to determine that all
requirements have been met for safe transfer operations aboard the vessel and on the
terminal premises.
Before beginning any transfer operations, the Master or responsible tank vessel officer
shall certify in writing to the Terminal Superintendent on forms provided by the Chief
that:
A. The tank vessel carries a valid certificate as required by Federal Law for tank
vessels engaged in transportation of petroleum products;
B. The requirements of this article relating to the operation and maintenance of tank
vessels while in the Los Angeles Harbor have been complied with; and,
In the event of the refusal of Master or responsible tank vessel officer to comply with
this article, the Terminal Superintendent shall discontinue all transfer operations and
notify the Los Angeles Fire Department of the conditions.
A tank vessel may be electrically connected to the terminal piping, through which the
cargo is to be transferred, prior to connecting of the cargo hose. This electrical
connection, if made, shall be maintained until after the cargo hose has been disconnected
and any spillage has been removed.
After inspection has been completed by ship’s officer and Terminal Representative,
proper connections have been made, and an effective means of communication has been
established, and the vessel is in all respects ready, the transfer of cargo shall be started at
a low rate. After operating conditions have been checked and found satisfactory, the
Terminal Representative or ship’s officer may be notified to proceed at a safe rate. When
pressure is being built up on hose, joints shall be carefully watched for leaks. Pumping
pressure shall not exceed allowable pressure on hose.
Transferring of Grade A, B, or C products across the deck of another vessel shall not
be permitted at any time.
When transferring Grade A, B, and C products, all hatch covers shall be closed.
Ullage plugs shall only be removed from such tanks as are being loaded or discharged.
All such ullage plugs removed shall be replaced with approved flame screen. Such ullage
screen covers shall be in place while transferring when not being used to take samples,
check tanks, or when topping off. Unless the vessel is gas-free, tank tops and ullage
plugs of tank vessels shall be closed while any towboat or other vessel is alongside and
shall not be opened until any such towboat or vessel has left the tank and there is no
longer any danger of sparks or other sources of ignition therefrom.
When loading Grade A, B, or C products, all ports facing the wharf and cargo decks
shall be closed; all offshore ports shall be closed or screened, and all doors shall be kept
closed except for necessary passage of personnel.
When transferring Grade D and E products, all ports shall be closed or screened.
A. When two or more ships are moored at adjacent berths at a terminal and a
hazardous vapor condition develops at any one of these ships, all transfer operations
involving all ships shall be stopped and all sources of ignition such as smoking, use of
matches, lighters, and open flame (except boiler fires shall be eliminated on all ships.
B. The Master or responsible officer of any vessel which is transferring ballast,
bunkering, standing by or lying at the wharf of any Marine Oil Terminal shall prohibit
smoking, the use of matches, open flame devices, and arcing or heat-producing electrical
appliances on all open decks of said vessel and no person shall smoke or use any such
device or appliance. The Terminal Superintendent shall notify such officer of these
requirements.
Overall loading by means of a hose through a hatch shall be prohibited, except when
loading Grade E products into a gas free tank and when the flash point of such oil is not
under 150° F. and such oil is not heated to over 90 percent of its flash point.
In loading the cargo tanks of ships, as many tanks may be loaded at the same time as
the tank vessel officer considers safe. Each tank shall be closely watched during loading
and every precaution shall be taken to guard against overflow.
The pumping rate shall be reduced when topping off the ship’s tanks, and a shore
operator shall stand by for the stop signal.
Pans or buckets shall be placed under all hose connections and maintained during
cargo operations. All hose shall be drained free of oil or blanketed after loading or
discharging operations are completed. Extreme care shall be taken to see that oil does not
escape from hose or pipe lines to navigable waters.
Before loading or discharging package goods or other dry freight cargo, holds on
vessels shall be inspected and such holds shall be gas-free before handling of freight will
be permitted.
Bulk cargo transfer operations shall not be obstructed by equipment stores, freight and
other materials not essential to cargo operations being performed. Ship stores or supplies
shall not be loaded or discharged while transferring Grade A, B, C, or liquefied
petroleum products, except when the Terminal Superintendent and officer in charge of
the vessel shall agree that such handling of stores will not obstruct transfer operations nor
create a fire hazard.
EXCEPTION:
When cargo hoses are left connected to pipe outlets on the wharf open end of such
cargo hoses may be blind flanged, or such cargo hoses may be attached to another pipe
outlet where needed to bypass to another outlet.
If unsafe conditions exist, the officer of the tank vessel shall cooperate with the
Terminal Superintendent to remove the hazard, but if not eliminated, loading or
discharging shall be discontinued by the responsible supervisor who has control of the
pressure.
C. If there is not sufficient competent personnel aboard the vessel or on the wharf to
safety handle cargo operations in progress.
D. If it is necessary for any vessel to come along side or pass within an unsafe
distance from any tank vessel transferring Grade A, B, C, liquefied petroleum products,
or should any condition develop which represents a hazard to the tank vessel or terminal
facilities.
E. If a spill occurs aboard the vessel or on the wharf; or if cargo hose fails, or leaks
at hose joints cannot be stopped by tightening hose connection.
F. If a serious vapor condition develops aboard or around the vessel or wharf due to
abnormal dissipation.
G. If any emergency occurs which in the opinion of the tank vessel officer or the
Terminal Superintendent constitutes a potential hazard to the ship or facilities.
A. Prior to the starting of cargo pumps for transferring operations, confer with the
tank vessel officer, inspect the wharf and the vessel if necessary, as set forth in Sections
57.95.26 and 57.95.27 of this division.
B. Be responsible to see that not less than two qualified employees are in
attendance, one of whom shall be on the wharf, and performing required duties in
connection with transfer operations at an times when such operations are in progress
between any tank vessel or terminal. One additional wharf man shall be provided for
each additional ship or tank vessel.
E. Not permit fires or open flame in any location in violation of this article.
F. Cause cargo hose to be properly connected and control valves properly manned.
G. See that the terminal crew is properly stationed and sufficiently instructed to
perform transfer operations.
H. See that no cargo is transferred to any tank vessel where in his opinion a
competent ship’s crew is not present, or where in his opinion unsafe conditions prevail
aboard the vessel.
I. See that all tank vessel loading connections are through the vessel’s pipe lines and
not through an open hose in a hatch, except as provided in Section 57.95.36 of this
division.
J. Before giving approval to start transfer operations, obtain from the Master or
responsible tank vessel officer a signed statement that all safety requirements for which
the Master is responsible, have been complied with as specified elsewhere in this
division. The Terminal Superintendent shall review the statement of the tank vessel
officer and certify thereon that he has noted the same. This statement shall be available
for inspection by the Chief.
M. Have on file a correct list of all products being loaded or discharged. Such list
shall include the name, flash point, and United States Coast Guard classification of the
commodity.
Tank vessels shall not be moored at other than marine oil terminals or other specially
designated places except when gas-free. Whenever practicable, tankships will berth
headed out or to seaward.
EXCEPTION:
Tank vessel officer shall see that all scuppers are effectively plugged before
transferring is commenced and that they so remain during the entire time the cargo is
being transferred except on tank vessels using water for deck cooling or during rain
storms. Pump room sea valves shall be closed and lashed to indicate that they should not
be open during all cargo transfer operations.
The officer in charge of the vessel shall be held responsible that sufficient number of
qualified persons are provided for the safe handling and transfer of all cargo while
loading or discharging.
Blowing of boiler tubes shall be prohibited at all times when cargo is being transferred
and when hazardous accumulations of vapors are present in the vicinity of the ship or
wharf.
When loading petroleum products, the safety relief valve in mast vent shall not be set
to prevent the discharge of vapors through the mast vent.
When vessel is transferring bulk petroleum products, signals as required by law shall
be displayed.
During loading and discharging of tank vessels, a warning placard carrying letters not
less than two inches high on a contrasting background shall be displayed near the
gangway. This placard shall state as follows:
WARNING
NO OPEN LIGHTS - NO SMOKING
NO VISITORS
At least two placards reading “DANGER – KEEP AWAY” in letters not less than six
inches in height on a contrasting background shall be located on offshore side of vessel
transferring Grade A, B, C, or D products or Class 1 and 2 liquefied petroleum gases, in
such a position that placards may be readily seen by approaching craft. Only one such
sign shall be required for barges. Such signs shall be furnished by the Terminal at which
the vessel is moored.
C. Hot Work – No emergency repairs involving the use of electrically arcing, heat
or flame-producing tools, or similar equipment shall be undertaken on the open deck or in
any space within the ship until and unless such space is gas-free, and is kept gas-free.
The Los Angeles Fire Department shall be notified of such repairs in advance of the
beginning of any work.
A copy of this Division shall be maintained at the Terminal office available for
reference at any time by persons employed in the terminal or on any vessel at the
terminal.
At least one member of the crew of a manned tank vessel barge shall be on board at all
times except when the vessel is gas-free or is moored at a dock or terminal at which
watchman service is provided, or unless reasonable precautions are taken to prevent
unauthorized persons from boarding the barge.
On cargo tanks of tank vessel barges which transfer general cargo directly over bulk
cargo spaces, vents shall be extended to an elevation above that at which the general
cargo over such spaces is stowed.
SEC. 57.95.60. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.
Portable fire extinguishers with a rating of not less than 20-BC shall be located within
50 feet of those portions of the facility where fires are a possibility.
DIVISION 96
TEMPORARY GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATORY CORE HOLE
Section
57.96.01 Scope.
57.96.02 Definitions.
57.96.10 Location.
57.96.11 Derricks.
This division shall set forth the fire safety requirements concerning geological
subterranean exploring for petroleum, natural gas, or other hydrocarbons.
The following words or group of words whenever used in this division shall be
defined as follows:
Limited Core Hole – A temporary geological exploratory core hole limited to 1500
feet in depth and five inches in diameter.
3. A minimum of 100 feet from the exit of any school, hospital, sanitarium, day
nursery, or place of assemblage.
All derricks used in the drilling or boring of temporary geological exploratory core
holes shall comply with provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard Nos. 23 or 24.
Every unlimited core hole shall be equipped with blow-out preventers installed and
maintained in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 45.
All piping, valves, fittings, and equipment for boring of core holes shall be capable of
withstanding the internal and external pressures and structural stresses to which they may
be subjected. Such piping, valves, fittings, and equipment shall be installed, used, and
maintained according to recognized good engineering practices.
3. The Fire Department will be called, and upon arrival the officer in command will
be thoroughly briefed on the situation.
4. All sources of ignition such as open flame, cutting or welding torches, heat
producing devices, sources of sparks and smoking will be secured or removed a safe
distance from the drill site.
5. Fire protection equipment will be brought into a position for ready use.
6. Operations shall not be resumed until the Fire Department officer approves.
A. At each limited core hole drill site there shall be provided and maintained at least
two portable fire extinguishers, each having a 10-B classification and located within 50
feet of the core hole.
B. At each unlimited core hole drill site there shall be provided and maintained at
least two portable fire extinguishers, each having a 20-B classification and located within
100 feet of the core hole.
DIVISION 100
AUTO FUELING STATIONS AND PUBLIC GARAGES
Section
General
57.100.01 Scope.
57.100.03 Construction.
57.100.04 Ventilation.
57.100.05 Drainage.
57.100.22 Prohibitions.
Public Garages
57.100.30 General.
57.100.37 Smoking.
GENERAL
Auto Fueling Stations and Public Garages shall conform to all applicable provisions of
this article in addition to the provisions of this division.
Every Auto Fueling Station and Public Garage shall be constructed and maintained in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
Indoor dispensing devices shall be so located that discharge vapors are readily
dissipated. Where natural ventilation is inadequate, mechanical ventilation sufficient to
accomplish proper ventilation of flammable vapors shall be provided.
Provisions shall be made in the area where vehicles are fueled with flammable or
combustible liquids to prevent spills from flowing into the interior of buildings, or if
dispensing apparatus is inside a building, to prevent any spill from extending into an area
where it would occasion or constitute a fire or explosion hazard.
No person shall use any tarpaulin or other material to cover a motor vehicle in an Auto
Fueling Station or Public Garage unless such material is either noncombustible or has
been treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition.
Sweeping compounds shall be immediately removed after use and pending final
disposal shall be stored in metal covered all metal containers.
Transfer of Class I or II liquids from one tank to another shall be in accordance with
methods approved by the Chief and shall only be done using approved transfer apparatus
and equipment.
C. No Class I liquid shall be used for cleaning of parts or other similar purposes in
any Auto Fueling Station.
No person shall store upon the premises of any Auto Fueling Station or Public Garage
any container in excess of five gallons capacity which has contained a Class I liquid,
except as required for transportation or refilling, unless all flammable vapors are
removed.
No open flame producing device used on any Public Garage or Auto Fueling Station
premises shall be located or brought within 25 feet of any dispenser, except heaters
installed as required by Section 57.100.32.
Storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall comply with Division 30 of this
article except as follows:
A. No Class I liquid shall be stored or handled within any Auto Fueling Station
building except package items such as cleaning fluids, polishes, etc., which are received
in approved containers and resold in their original sealed condition.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Any such dispensing apparatus or the pump thereof may be located less than ten
feet from any property line provided that a solid concrete or masonry wall at least five
feet high is erected and maintained in such a manner as to separate the location of such
dispensing apparatus from the adjoining premises, lot, or parcel of land beyond such
property line; and provided further that such wall shall extend horizontally along or
immediately parallel to said property line a distance of at least 10 feet in either direction
from such dispensing apparatus or pump.
B. Dispensing apparatus used for the fueling of motor vehicles of the public shall
not be located at a Bulk Distributing Station unless separated therefrom by a fence, wall
or other physical barrier.
A. Supporting Base:
Every dispensing or transfer apparatus used in connection with any underground tank
shall be substantially mounted on a raised solid concrete or other approved type base.
The height of the raised base shall be a minimum of six inches above the surrounding
grade level. Each dispenser must be equipped and maintained with an approved
containment box. Containment boxes must have leak detection capability that will shut
down the flow of product to the dispenser. Leak detection may be accomplished by
either mechanical or electronic means.
Tanks and piping shall not contain any Class I or II liquids (except for the necessary
amount for a wet test if used) until the installation is complete and covered as required by
this article.
B. Dispensers:
Dispensers for Class I, II, or IIIA liquids and flammable gases or liquefied flammable
gases shall be of an approved type and shall be installed in such manner and location as
may be approved by the Chief.
1. The installation and use of coin, card, token, remote control, or similar type
dispensing apparatus for Class I, II, or IIIA liquids and flammable gases or liquefied
flammable gases are prohibited in all places listed in Subsection A of this section, except
that the use of these devices is permitted but limited to automobile fueling apparatus
dispensing Class I, II and IIIA liquids. Where such installations are open to the public,
there shall be a competent attendant on duty at a remote-control system or any other
approved system and in such a position to observe any dispensing of fuel at all times
when the premises is open for business.
2. The use of any device that permits the dispensing of flammable or combustible
liquids when the hand of the operator of the discharging nozzle is removed from the
nozzle, is prohibited, unless complying with Subsection D of this section.
Automatic nozzles with latch-open devices may not be used unless they are approved
by the Chief and shut off the flow of liquid reliably and positively when:
2. The nozzle falls from the filling neck of the vehicle tank or container.
E. Dispenser Hoses:
Dispenser hoses used in conjunction with nozzles equipped with approved latch-open
devices must be equipped with approved break-away couplings.
EXCEPTION:
The Chief may approve longer lengths of hose upon satisfactory proof of need.
No person shall dispense any Class I, II, or IIIA liquid within 25 feet of any open
flame. No dispensing apparatus shall be located, maintained, or used in any repair shop
portion of any garage or in any other location where open flames or flame producing
devices are used or installed within 25 feet thereof.
A. No sale or purchase of any Class I, II, or III liquids shall be made in containers
unless such containers are clearly marked to indicate the name of the product contained
therein.
B. No delivery of any Class I or II liquid shall be made into any container unless
such container complies with the provisions of Division 30 of this article for design and
construction.
The impact valve shall be provided with an approved stabilizer assembly which is
attached to the dispenser supporting base. The impact valve shall be installed so the
shear section is level with the top of the dispenser supporting base
B. Pits: Pits for subsurface pumps or piping manifolds of submersible pumps shall
withstand the external forces to which they may be subjected without damage to the tank,
pump, or piping. If located directly over any underground tank there shall be at least one
foot of earth between the bottom of the pit and the top of the tank. Pits shall be no larger
than necessary for inspection and maintenance and shall be fitted with a tight fitting
cover.
EXCEPTION:
One foot of earth between the bottom of the pit and the top of the tank shall not be
required for submersible pumps located within the tank.
C. Piping, Valves and Fittings: Piping, valves and fittings in remote pumping
systems shall conform to the requirements of Division 39 of this article.
D. Controls:
1. A control shall be provided in each dispensing unit that will allow the pump to
operate only when the dispensing nozzle is removed from its bracket and the control
switch is manually activated. The pump shall stop when all nozzles have been returned to
their brackets.
2. The master switch or all individual pump circuit switches shall be set in the “off”
position before closing the service station for business at any time.
PUBLIC GARAGES
Public Garages shall conform to all applicable requirements of this article and the
following provisions contained in Sections 57.100.31 through 57.100.40.
A. Furnace Heating Units: Heat generating furnaces shall be cut off from the garage
proper by fire-resistive separations. Openings from heater room to garage are restricted
to those required for pipes and ducts only. Heating systems employing re-circulation of
air, other than direct-fired heaters, shall conform to requirements of Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code).
B. Unit Heaters: Unit heaters shall be at least eight feet above the floor, and shall
not be so located as to raise the temperature of adjacent combustible material above 160°
F. Heater fans for re-circulating air that draw their intake air from a level below four feet,
or which are located below four feet above floor level, shall be of a non-sparking type.
Repair and storage areas of garages shall be separated. Repair work involving the use
of open flame shall be kept at least 25 feet from storage areas. Paint, carpenter and
upholstery shops shall not be located in the same area with stored vehicles. Tire
vulcanizing equipment, water heaters, forges, and other fuel burning equipment shall not
be installed in the storage sections of garages.
Flammable liquids shall not be used in any garage for washing parts or removing
grease or dirt, unless in a specially approved safety can or dip tank. Where the washing
of parts is likely to dilute the solvent to a flash point below 100° F., then only specially
approved parts washing equipment shall be used. Use of combustible liquids shall
conform to all other applicable divisions of this article.
Floors shall be kept clean and free from oil. Clear aisle spaces shall be maintained.
Class I or II liquids shall not be used for cleaning floors. Metal receptacles with metal
covers shall be used for the storage of oily waste and rubbish.
D. Use:
2. Motor vehicles shall be sufficiently elevated in order that application not be done
from a prone position.
3. If thinners having flash points lower than that of the under-coating material are
used, the flash point of the material shall be deemed to be that of the thinner.
E. Storage:
1. Drum Storage:
c. At the point of use, one drum or an eight hour supply, whichever is greater, will
be permitted.
2. Storage Tank:
a. Construction: Tanks shall be constructed of not less than 14 gauge steel with all
joints and seams welded.
b. Capacity: Inside storage of bulk flammable undercoating material shall be in
approved tanks. The capacity of tanks shall be limited in relation to the materials stored
therein in accordance with the following table:
TABLE 100-A
Below 70º F.
120
c. Vents: Tanks shall be vented to the outside atmosphere by a vent pipe not less
than 1-1/4 inch in diameter.
d. Supports: Tanks shall be placed flat upon noncombustible floors, or; if provided
with supports which are over 12 inches in height, they shall be protected by at least one-
hour fire-resistive material.
e. Fill Pipes: Tank fill pipes shall be provided with a tight-fitting snap or screw type
closure which prevents the escape of vapors.
g. Filling: The refilling of tanks may be accomplished from drums or a cargo tank
located or mounted on a vehicle outside of the building, by means of an approved transfer
device. The transferring may be done from either an outside fill pipe or through an
approved hose not more than 25 feet in length and fitted with a nozzle which will form a
vapor-tight seal when inserted in a tank fill opening.
EXCEPTION:
Undercoating materials having a flash point over 100° F. in quantities of six unit
drums or less, may be transferred to approved tanks inside buildings, provided; all such
drums are transported and remain upon approved vehicle during the transfer process, and
provided further; that such vehicle and drums are removed from the building promptly
after transfer is completed.
SEC. 57.100.37. SMOKING.
Smoking shall be prohibited except in offices, rooms or areas set aside for that
purpose. Signs designating smoking areas shall be prominently displayed.
“NO SMOKING – STOP MOTOR” signs having letters at least three inches high on
sharply contrasting backgrounds shall be conspicuously posted in every Auto Fueling
Station and in every Public Garage where Class I, II and IIIA liquids are used or
dispensed.
1. Within 75 feet of every dispenser there shall be located at least one portable fire
extinguisher having a minimum rating of 2A,20B:C.
2. Every Auto Fueling Station shall have on its premises at least two separate
portable fire extinguishers having a minimum rating of 2-A,20-B:C.
57.101.01 Scope.
57.101.08 Smoking.
57.101.18 Vegetation.
57.101.20 Pumps.
57.101.21 Dispensing Hose and Nozzles.
57.101.22 Pesticides.
The provisions of this division shall regulate fire and life safety for all airports,
heliports, aircraft factories, aircraft hangars, and aircraft repair hangars. Further, this
division regulates the ground fuel servicing of all types of aircraft with petroleum fuels.
Any activity pertaining to airports, heliports and aircraft fuel servicing not specifically
regulated by this division shall comply with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 60.
No flammable or combustible liquids shall be dispensed into or removed from the fuel
system of an aircraft in any aircraft factory or hangar.
The application of Class I or II liquids as a finish to any aircraft shall be done only in
locations approved by the Chief.
No person shall clean any aircraft, engines, or parts of aircrafts with any flammable
liquid in an aircraft factory or hangar or within 50 feet of an aircraft, aircraft factory, or
hangar except in a hazardous materials room or Group H Occupancy separated and set
aside for that purpose.
Every aircraft factory and hangar shall be equipped and maintained with metal drip
pans under the engines of all aircraft stored therein.
A. No open flame or other source of ignition shall be permitted inside any aircraft
factory or hangar which is used for application of Class I or II liquids as finishes, nor
shall any open flame or flame-producing devices be permitted in any hangar, except in
locations approved by the Chief.
“NO SMOKING” signs with letters at least three inches high on a contrasting
background shall be conspicuously posted throughout every aircraft factory or hangar,
except in approved designated locations in accordance with Division 23 of this article.
No person shall run the engine of any aircraft in any aircraft factory or hangar except
in approved engine test areas.
All repairing of aircraft requiring the use of open flames, spark producing devices or
the heating of parts above 500° F. shall be done in the open or in a room separated from
any hangar by a fire-resistive separation.
A valid Permit from the Department is required in accordance with Division 4 of this
article, when a building or premises is used as an aircraft fueling station, private airport,
or heliport. Further, a valid Permit and General Approval is required, in accordance with
Divisions 4 and 5 of this article, for an aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle designed and
operated for the purpose of fueling aircraft on the grounds of an airport or heliport.
The construction and protection of aircraft loading walkways shall comply with the
requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 56.
B. All open flame and spark producing devices within flammable vapor areas shall
be shut down and shall not be operated while air ventilation is occurring.
C. Electrical equipment used in the flammable vapor areas shall be approved for use
in Class I, Group D, Division 1 Hazardous Locations, as defined in Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
D. To guard against static spark hazard, exhaust equipment and the aircraft to be
ventilated shall be electrically bonded and adequately grounded. If ducting is used, a
static bonding wire shall be connected from each exhaust hose nozzle to the aircraft wing
before opening the fuel tank.
E. Aircraft electrical circuits which are in flammable vapor areas shall be de-
energized.
B. All welding and cutting operations shall comply with the requirements of
L.A.F.D. Standards No. 50 and 51.
C. Every welding cart or stand used for welding apparatus shall be equipped with at
least one portable fire extinguisher having a 10B:C classification or greater.
A. No person shall defuel any tank or fuel system of any aircraft unless the fuel is
off-loaded into an approved aircraft refueler unit in accordance with Division 38 of this
article, or an approved portable tank or drum. The portable tank or drum shall be
equipped with a funnel and flash screen.
B. Every aircraft refueler unit shall be electrically bonded to the aircraft being
defueled and either the aircraft refueler unit or the aircraft shall be adequately grounded
in an approved manner. A drag chain or flexible ground conductor shall not be deemed
to fulfill the requirements of this section for grounding during fuel transfer. Transfer
nozzles shall be equipped with approved bonding conductors which shall be clipped or
otherwise positively engaged with the bonding attachment provided on the aircraft
adjacent to the fuel tank cap.
All bonding and ground connections required by this section shall be made prior to
any fuel transfer and shall not be disconnected until fuel transfer operations are
completed.
Aircraft parking areas shall be kept free of all dry grass, weeds, vegetation, or other
combustible debris.
B. The length of hose shall be limited to the actual needs of the individual transfer
apparatus. Such hose shall be equipped with an approved shutoff nozzle. Fuel transfer
nozzles shall be of the self-closing type, designed to be actuated by hand pressure only.
No notches or other devices shall be used for holding the nozzle valve handle in the open
position. Such nozzles shall be equipped with a grounding cable complete with proper
attachment for aircraft to be serviced.
No person shall store, mix or transport a pesticide or insecticide at any airport except:
(a) in connection with the application of such pesticide or insecticide within the
limits of airport facilities, or
(b) when such pesticide or insecticide constitutes air freight and is stored and
transported in conformance with all applicable State and Federal regulations.
DIVISION 103
LUMBER YARDS
Section
57.103.05 Smoking.
A. Height: Lumber shall be securely and compactly piled and in no case higher
than 20 feet.
B. Size of Piles and Access Required: Piles of lumber shall not exceed 7,500
square feet of ground area. Every lumber pile shall be accessible on at least one side by a
driveway not less than 15 feet in width. When the side of lesser dimension exceeds 50
feet then the pile shall be accessible on both of the sides of greater dimension by a
driveway at least 15 feet in width.
C. Fence: Permanent lumber storage shall be separated from public streets and
highways by an adequate fence acceptable to the Fire Department.
D. Location: Lumber shall not be stored within 10 feet of any building on adjacent
property or within 15 feet of an unprotected opening in any building.
A. Weeds: Weeds and other similar vegetation shall be kept down throughout the
entire yard and shall be sprayed as often as needed with a satisfactory weed killer or cut
or grubbed out. Dead weeds shall be removed.
B. Debris : Debris such as sawdust, chips and shorts and combustible refuse shall be
removed at least once a week. Proper housekeeping shall be maintained at all times.
(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
Saw mills, planing mills, and other woodworking areas shall be equipped with refuse
removal systems which will collect and remove sawdust and shavings as produced; or
suitable metal bins, metal-lined bins, or wooden bins constructed of material not less than
1-1/4" thickness, provided with normally closed covers or automatically closing covers
shall be installed at or near such machines and shavings and sawdust shall be swept up
and deposited in such bins at sufficiently frequent intervals as to keep the premises clean.
Where required, blower and exhaust systems shall be installed.
Smoking shall be prohibited except in specific safe locations. “NO SMOKING” signs
shall be posted throughout all buildings except in specific locations designed as safe for
smoking purposes.
A. Open Storage Areas: Portable fire extinguishers, hydrants, standpipe and hose, or
other approved firefighting equipment shall be so installed and distributed as to provide
maximum protection and shall be properly marked.
C. Fire Brigades: Trained fire brigades with adequate equipment may be accepted in
lieu of other requirements for firefighting equipment.
DIVISION 104
TIRE REBUILDING PLANTS AND TIRE STORAGE
Section
General Requirements
57.104.01 Scope.
57.104.04 Ventilation.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Tire rebuilding plants shall conform to all other applicable requirements of this article,
as well as to the following provisions.
Storage and handling of flammable cements and dressing shall be in accordance with
Division 30 of this article relating to containers, flammable liquids cabinets, and
permissible quantities.
Each room where rubber cement is used or mixed or flammable solvents are applied,
shall be ventilated in an approved manner.
A. Inside Storage: Tires stored inside of buildings shall not block doors, windows,
or exitways. Piles and racks of tires which are placed directly against and parallel to
walls, shall not extend out from such walls more than five feet. Piles or racks of tires
placed in rows perpendicular to the walls shall not exceed 10 feet in width or 50 feet in
length. Every row of tires shall be accessible on at least two sides by an aisle at least
three feet wide. Tires which are stored in such a pattern as to form deadend aisles against
the walls of the building shall terminate at an aisle at least six feet wide at the inside end
of such pile. Every rack or pile of tires shall be kept at least 18 inches below sprinkler
heads in a sprinklered building. Piles of tires shall be kept at least three feet below the
ceiling or roof and every chord, beam or girder in an unsprinklered building. Racks of
tires shall be kept at least 18 inches below the ceiling or roof and every chord, beam, or
girder in an unsprinklered building. Piles and racks of tires shall maintain stability and
shall not become a hazard by falling during a fire or other emergency. The following
diagrams explain but do not restrict nor prohibit other methods and arrangements which
otherwise comply with this section.
B. Outside Storage: Piles of tires or carcasses shall not exceed 7200 cubic feet in
volume and shall be separated from every other pile by an aisle at least 10 feet wide.
Tires in racks shall comply with the length, width, and aisle requirements for inside
storage.
The application of rubber cement to tire casings for retreading purposes may be done
through pressurized equipment only by approval of the Chief.
SEC. 57.104.11. EQUIPMENT STANDARDS.
A. Equipment shall be of a type and design which will not discharge a flammable
vapor-air mixture when used with the intended material.
B. Pressurized material tank shall be approved for a working pressure equal to the
approved working pressure of air tank supplying pressure to it or equal to the maximum
air pressure to which the material tank may be submitted, whichever is greater.
C. Pressurized material tank shall have a relief valve set to operate at a pressure of
not greater than 125 percent of the designed working pressure of the tank.
D. Spraying area shall be free of excess equipment and storage of any kind.
E. Spraying area shall be such that good housekeeping standards can be readily
maintained.
A. Equipment shall be used for the intended purpose with the proper material and
operated as specified by the manufacturer.
Tire rebuilding plants located in buildings of wood frame construction and not
otherwise required to be sprinklered shall have all fire hazardous processes protected by
an automatic fire extinguishing system acceptable to the Chief.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and maintained in every tire rebuilding
plant as specified by Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 105
AUTO WRECKING YARDS, JUNK YARDS, AND WASTE
MATERIALS HANDLING PLANTS
Section
57.105.02 Storage.
Auto wrecking yards, junk yards, and waste materials handling plants, shall conform
to all other applicable requirements of this article, as well as this division.
The storage of materials, whether combustible or not, in any auto wrecking plant, junk
yard, or waste materials handling plant, shall be in accordance with Division 58 of this
article for outside storage, aisles, and Fire Department access.
EXCEPTION:
The storage of flammable fibres shall be in accordance with Division 54 of this article.
Welding and cutting operations shall be in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 51.
A. Sprinkler Systems: Handling and storage of large quantities of waste paper, rags
or other combustible materials, shall not be in a building of combustible construction
unless the building is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system and all vertical
openings enclosed.
Section
57.110.01 Scope.
The provisions of this division and applicable provisions of Titles 19 and 24, C.A.C.
shall regulate fire and life safety requirements for assembly occupancies. Such
provisions apply to all assembly occupancies requiring a Fire Permit and define who shall
be responsible for providing the fire and life safety within. The provisions recognize that
life safety consists of more than exit requirements alone and address the proper use of
decorative materials, open flame, flammable liquids and gases, and the operation of
motion picture theaters and projection rooms. The provisions do not address building
construction features that are regulated by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
A. Obstruction of Exits: No person shall maintain or place any chair, table, stool,
sofa, settee, booth, easel, cameras, microphone, cable, false front, rope barrier, or other
obstruction except a breakaway rope necessary to control and maintain order in any exit
of any assembly occupancy while the same is open for business or while there are
persons other than employees therein.
B. Obstruction of Lobbies and Foyers: No person shall maintain or place any chair,
table, stool, sofa, settee, easel, booth, false front, or any other obstruction which will
reduce the required exit width in any lobby, foyer, mezzanine, or other public area of any
assembly occupancy while the same is open for business or while there are persons other
than employees therein, except by written permission of the Chief.
No paper, foliage, hay, bunting, textiles, plastic, or similar combustible materials shall
be used as scenery, curtains, drapes, or decorative display in or upon any stage or
platform in any assembly occupancy unless such material is flame retardant, flame
retardant treated, or noncombustible.
EXCEPTION:
EXCEPTION:
When smoking is a part of the play or production then being produced, a Special
Permit may be issued by the Chief allowing smoking on the stage or platform.
No person shall exhibit, store or use any motor vehicle, marine craft or aircraft engine
in any assembly occupancy except by authority of a Special Permit from the Chief.
No person shall use upon any stage or platform, inside any dressing room, or within
the public area of any assembly occupancy any open flame, except by authority of a
Special Permit from the Chief.
EXCEPTIONS:
When the occupant load is 100 or more, no person shall operate or maintain any live
theatrical production utilizing scenery and/or settings, lighting, or other stage dressing or
paraphernalia, in any motion picture theater, theater or little theater except by authority of
a Permit in accordance with Division 5 of this article.
No person shall operate, maintain, or allow to exist any unvented portable fuel-
burning heater in any assembly occupancy except by Special Permit issued by the Chief.
Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be used or stored within any assembly
occupancy.
EXCEPTIONS:
B. Special Permits shall specify the following conditions for the proper use or
display of compressed gases or liquefied flammable gases within any assembly
occupancy:
3. The use or display of compressed gases or liquefied flammable gases shall not
exceed 30 consecutive days.
6. Cylinders equipped with protective caps shall, except when in use, have the caps
in place.
7. Cylinder valves shall be closed at any time the demand for gas ceases so that
pressure will not be maintained on any attached equipment.
8. The amount of gas and number of cylinders shall not exceed the amount and
number approved by the Chief for a specific location.
9. Not less than one 10B:C portable fire extinguisher shall be provided and
accessible at each location where open flame is used.
10. Liquefied flammable gas cylinders shall not exceed 5.76 gallons water capacity
in size.
11. Liquefied flammable gas cylinders shall not be filled with more than 50 percent
of nominal charging capacity.
12. The total amount of liquefied flammable gas cylinders on the premises shall not
exceed 60 gallons at any time.
13. Liquefied flammable gas used for the preparation or warming of food for retail
sale is prohibited.
C. Liquefied flammable gas used for space heating shall be supplied from a fuel
cylinder located outside of and at least 10 feet from any assembly occupancy. An
approved heater and piping system shall be used. Flexible hose in length up to 36 inches
may be used if it is designed for a minimum bursting pressure of 1,750 PSIG, and such
hose shall be marked with “L.P.-GAS” or “LPG” labeling.
The projection of cellulose acetate or other safety film when used in conjunction with
electric arc, xenon, or other light source projection equipment which develops hazardous
gases, dust, or radiation shall be in a room designed and constructed in accordance with
requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
No person shall use any cellulose nitrate film in any motion picture projection
machine in any assembly occupancy unless the same is located in a projection room
designed and constructed in accordance with requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).
The person in control of a projection room shall be responsible for the installation and
maintenance of the following equipment in each projection room:
B. An approved metal film storage cabinet or container which shall be divided into
separate compartments having self-closing doors. Each separate compartment of the
cabinet shall be of sufficient size to store only one reel of film. Film shall be stored in
such cabinets when not in use.
C. At least one approved enclosed film rewinding machine, the doors of which shall
be kept securely closed when in operation.
D. One hand film rewinding machine to be used only for the inspection and splicing
of film.
G. An all-metal covered container in which shall be placed all hot carbon ends
exclusively.
No person shall be permitted in any projection room during the time that any
projection machine is being operated except the projectionist or other duly authorized
person having proper business therein.
No person shall open the magazine door of a motion picture projection machine
during the projection of cellulose nitrate film.
No person shall wind cellulose nitrate film upon any reel in such a manner that it will
extend beyond the sides thereof.
No person shall conduct, operate, maintain or allow standing concert attendance inside
a structure.
EXCEPTION:
Public assembly occupancies with occupant loads below 1,000 may utilize standing
concert attendance under the provisions of a Special Permit issued by the Chief.
2. In evaluating the adequacy of such layout and security, the Chief shall consider
the anticipated size, volatility, and behavior of the audience as demonstrated by the past
history of like audiences.
Section
57.111.01 Scope.
57.111.09 No Smoking.
The provisions of this division and applicable provisions of Titles 19 and 24, C.A.C.,
shall regulate all day care and educational occupancies as defined herein.
Such provisions outline the requirements for Permits, emergency pre-fire plans,
emergency exit drills, and school ground entrance gates and also describe what
information needs to be furnished to the Fire Department by management. The
provisions also address when and where smoking, open flame devices, space heaters, and
hazardous materials may be allowed.
Additional requirements for fire alarm systems, portable fire extinguishers, exits, and
other appropriate provisions are addressed in other divisions of this article.
Group A, Division 3: Any assembly occupancy with an occupant load of less than 300
without a stage and used for educational purposes.
Group E, Division 1: Any building used for educational purposes through the twelfth
grade by 50 or more persons for more than 12 hours per week or four hours in any one
day.
Group E, Division 2: Any building used for educational purposes through the twelfth
grade by less than 50 persons for more than 12 hours per week or four hours in any one
day.
Group E, Division 3: Any nonresidential building used for day care purposes for more
than six children. Any residential building used for day care purposes for more than 12
children.
The owner, manager, or person in control of any private day care or educational
occupancy shall be responsible for providing and controlling the fire and life safety
provisions of this division. The person in control of any private day care or educational
occupancy shall, upon request of the Department, furnish the name. address, and
telephone number of the owner, manager, representative, or lessee. Every private day
care or educational occupancy shall be under the constant supervision of the owner,
manager, or person in control. Either the owner, manager, or person in control shall be
on the premises of the occupancy during the hours the facility is open for educational or
day care purposes.
The person in control of any day care or educational occupancy including a college or
university shall establish implement, and maintain an emergency plan to be followed in
case of fire or other emergency. All emergency plans and evacuation procedures shall be
submitted to the Department for approval prior to their implementation.
A. Exit drills for day care and kindergarten through twelfth grade shall be held at
least once a month. When proficiency in the exit drill has been achieved to the
satisfaction of the Chief, exit drills for students in the tenth through twelfth grade may be
reduced to not less than twice in every school year.
B. A written record of all exit drills shall be kept. Such record shall state the time
and date of each drill held. Persons in control shall permit exit drill records to be
inspected by the Department at any time.
C. Exit drills shall include complete evacuation of all persons from the building to a
designated evacuation area. After reaching the evacuation area, student attendance shall
be taken by the teacher from the class rollback.
D. Upon request of the Department that an exit drill be conducted, the person in
charge shall forthwith conduct the requested drill.
E. All emergency exit drill alarms shall be sounded on the fire alarm system or
alarm sounding device and not on the signal system used to dismiss classes.
Any school ground that is entirely enclosed by fences or walls shall provide one or
more gates in such fences or walls in a location as approved by the Chief. The gates shall
be not less than 20 feet in width to permit the entrance of emergency apparatus. Gates,
when equipped with locking devices, shall be readily openable by chain or bolt cutting
devices.
No person shall use any open flame device in any day care or educational occupancy.
EXCEPTION:
Fuel burning elements of approved appliances shall not be considered as open flame
devices.
Smoking shall not be permitted in any classroom or other enclosed facility except in
approved designated areas.
B. Hazardous materials used and stored for such use shall comply with appropriate
divisions of this article, Title 19 C.A.C., and as follows:
1. Flammable and combustible liquids stored for such purposes shall be in original
containers or in safety cans. Storage in excess of 10 gallons shall be in approved
Hazardous Materials Cabinets, Hazardous Materials Rooms, or H-1, H-2 or H-3
Occupancies.
C. Every educational occupancy that uses, stores, or handles any hazardous material
shall maintain a current inventory list of all hazardous materials located on the premises.
EXCEPTION:
Quantities used for maintenance purposes and the operation of equipment when stored
in approved containers and locations.
D. The inventory list shall include but not be limited to: The name of the material,
the identification of the hazards of the material, the quantity, the date received, the shelf
life of the material and location on the premises. The owner, manager, or person having
charge and control of the educational occupancy shall be responsible for an annual
review of the inventory list for accuracy and reevaluation of the need for the material.
The inventory list shall be maintained on the premises and be available for inspection by
the Chief. When the Chief determines that any of the materials on the inventory list have
become a fire/life hazard, the person having charge and control of the educational
occupancy shall immediately make proper arrangements for the safe removal of such
materials from the premises.
Any fuel burning heating appliance in day care or educational occupancies shall not be
located closer than 10 feet from any required exit where only one exit is provided. Space
heating appliances shall be properly vented in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Mechanical Code) and applicable provisions of Part 4, Title 24, C.A.C. Any heater
located in an area occupied by children shall have protective features incorporated into its
design or a protective guard, screen, or other means to eliminate accidental contact with
the heating appliance.
B. All educational occupancies not regulated by Title 19, C.A.C. including privately
owned vocational or trade schools and educational facilities provided by firms or
companies for employees shall adhere to the following seating requirements:
1. Aisles: Aisles adjacent to rows of seats shall be not less than 22 inches in width.
The width of the aisle on the corridor side of the room adjacent to the exit door and
leading from the front to the rear of the room shall be a minimum width of three feet. The
aisle along the window side of the room shall be not less than 22 inches in width if there
are no exit doors on that side of the room. If exit doors are on each side of the room, an
aisle with a minimum width of three feet shall be maintained adjacent to each exit door.
2. Seats: In rooms having a seating capacity of 100 or more, loose seats, folding
chairs, or similar seating facilities that are not fixed to the floor shall be bonded together
in groups of not less than three nor more than seven. The spacing and arrangement of
seats shall conform to the requirements of Division 33 of this article.
DIVISION 112
RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES
Section
57.112.01 Scope.
57.112.08 Flammable and Combustible Liquids in Dwelling Units and Guest Rooms.
The provisions of this division and applicable provisions of Titles 19 and Title 24,
C.A.C. shall regulate for fire and life safety requirements in residential occupancies.
The provisions of this division outline the requirements for Permits, smoke detectors,
and spark arresters. Such provisions define who is responsible and what fire safety
information needs to be distributed to occupants. The provisions also address the proper
storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids, compressed gases, liquefied
flammable gases, and the limited use of unvented portable heaters in residential
occupancies.
Requirements for fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, exits, and other appropriate
provisions are located in other divisions of this article.
A. In the event an apartment house has 16 or more dwelling units or a hotel has 20
or more guest rooms, either the owner or a responsible resident having charge thereof
shall reside on the premises.
B. The owner or manager of every apartment house in which there are 16 or more
dwelling units and every hotel in which there are 20 or more guest rooms, shall, upon
request of the Chief, furnish in writing both the name, unit number, and telephone
number of the current responsible resident and the name, address, and telephone number
of the owner or manager. Such statement shall be signed by both the owner and manager
or by the responsible resident.
C. If the owner does not reside upon the premises of any apartment house in which
there are less than 16 dwelling units or any hotel in which there are less than 20 guest
rooms, a notice stating the name, address, and telephone number of both the owner and
the owner’s agent in charge of the occupancy shall be posted in a conspicuous place on
the premises.
D. Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $300.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
Each distribution shall be accomplished in such a manner to attract the attention of the
occupant to the fire safety information and to stress its importance in the event of a fire.
b. How to alert others and where to activate the fire alarm system.
2. Smoke detector information shall be included in fire safety information and shall
state the following: “SMOKE DETECTORS ARE PROVIDED FOR YOUR
PERSONAL SAFETY. ANYONE WHO WILLFULLY AND MALICIOUSLY
TAMPERS WITH, DAMAGES, BREAKS, OR REMOVES ANY REQUIRED SMOKE
DETECTOR SHALL BE GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR. ANY PERSON WHO
WILLFULLY AND MALICIOUSLY SENDS. GIVES, TRANSMITS, OR SOUNDS
ANY FALSE ALARM OF FIRE IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR.”
D. Modification: The Chief shall have the authority to provide for and approve
slight modifications in the fire safety information required to be posted or distributed
pursuant to this section. No modification shall be made without prior approval of the
Chief.
E. Format: A sample format of the fire safety information required by this section
shall be available for inspection at the Fire Safety Education Unit of the Department and
at locations designated by the Chief.
F. Language: In the event a substantial number of the patrons and occupants of any
occupancy regulated by this section do not read or comprehend the English language, the
required fire safety information shall be printed in both English and the language
understood by the patrons and occupants.
G. Removal: No person shall remove or deface any fire safety information required
in this Section except to repair or replace the notice or the surface upon which it is
affixed.
H. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $200.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
B. When actuated, the smoke detector shall provide an alarm in the dwelling unit or
guest room.
C. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
B. Every tenant, including every person occupying a dwelling unit or guest room,
shall notify in writing the owner or the owner’s designated agent as soon as possible of a
known defect or malfunction in a smoke detector required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code). After an occupant has so notified the owner or agent, that occupant’s
duty will cease.
C. Any owner or owner’s agent may enter any dwelling unit or guest room owned
by such owner for the purpose of inspecting, repairing, testing, and maintaining. smoke
detectors required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code). Except in cases of
emergency, the owner or owner’s agent shall give the tenant reasonable notice in writing
of the intention to enter and shall enter only during normal business hours. A period of 24
hours shall be considered to be reasonable notice in the absence of evidence to the
contrary.
D. No tenant, after reasonable notice has been given as herein provided, shall refuse
to permit the owner or owner’s agent to enter the premises for any of the purposes
enumerated in Subsection C. of this section.
E. No person shall remove or render inoperable any required smoke detector except
to repair or replace such smoke detector.
F. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this section
shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not
exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more than
six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation of
any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
A. The storage, handling, and use of Class IA liquids in any dwelling unit or guest
room, or in any room, building, or premises accessory to a dwelling unit or guest room,
except as otherwise regulated by this article, is prohibited.
B. Class IB, IC or Class II liquids with a flashpoint below 110°F. shall not be used
in any dwelling unit or guest room for any of the following purposes:
C. The storage, handling, and use of Class IB, IC, or combustible liquids in hotels
or apartment houses shall be only for the purpose of maintenance and operation of
maintenance equipment. Storage shall be in approved containers and in Hazardous
Material Cabinets in locations approved by the Chief.
Maximum quantities in hotels or apartment houses. for Class IB, IC, and Class II
liquids combined shall not exceed 10 gallons and for Class III liquids shall not exceed 60
gallons.
EXCEPTION:
D. Basement:
2. Class II or Class III liquids in quantities not exceeding those in Subsection C may
be stored in basements with approval and Special Permit from the Chief, provided the
basement is protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system in accordance with
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).
EXCEPTION:
B. The maximum quantities stored in dwellings shall not exceed 10 gallons for
Class IB or IC liquids, 15 gallons for Class II liquids, and 60 gallons for Class III liquids.
No person shall use, maintain, or allow to exist any portable, fuel-burning, unvented
room heater in any residential occupancy.
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
No person shall store or use compressed gases or liquefied flammable gases within a
residential occupancy.
EXCEPTION:
Section
57.113.01 Scope.
57.113.02 Definitions.
57.113.07 Exit Path Lighting, Exit Signs, and Exit Sign Illumination.
57.113.10 Restraint.
This division and applicable provisions of Titles 19 and Part 2, Title 24, C.C.R., shall
regulate any institutional occupancy used or intended to be used for a community care
facility or Group I Division 1, 2, 3, or Group I, Division 1A or 2A occupancy. Additional
requirements for fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, exits, and other appropriate
provisions are addressed in other divisions of this article.
SEC. 57.113.02. DEFINITIONS.
Restraint—The physical retention of a person within a room, cell or cell block by any
means; or within the exterior walls of a building by means of located doors unoperable by
the person restrained. Restraint shall also mean the physical binding, strapping, or similar
restriction of any person in a chair, walker, bed, or other contrivance for the purpose of
deliberately restricting the free movement of ambulatory persons.
When all applicable provisions of this article and the California Code of Regulations
are complied with, the Chief may, upon request, issue a Fire Clearance to appropriate
licensing agencies for any institutional occupancy governed by this article.
A valid permit from the Department is required in accordance with Division 4 of this
article when a building or portion of a building is used as an institutional occupancy.
EXCEPTION:
EXCEPTION:
The use of ordinary window curtains, drapes, and cubical curtains in guest rooms,
individual patient rooms, and offices.
SEC. 57.113.07. EXIT PATH LIGHTING, EXIT SIGNS, AND EXIT SIGN
ILLUMINATION.
Exit path lighting, exit signs, and exit sign illumination shall be in accordance with
Division 33 of this article and Titles 19 and 24, C.C.R., and shall be maintained in such a
manner as to clearly identify egress, direction to exits, and exit ways at all times the
building is occupied.
EXCEPTION:
Temporary care not to exceed two weeks from date of becoming bedridden will be
permitted to allow for the removal of such person. Rooms provided for the temporary
care of nonambulatory persons shall be approved for this purpose.
2. Exit openings from rooms serving areas occupied or used by bed or litter patients
shall be such that ready passage of such equipment is allowed, but in no case less than 44
inches in width. Other exits shall have a clear width of not less than 32 inches. There
shall be no projections into the exit opening.
E. Ramps: An approved ramp at least four feet wide shall be provided to exit from
the building to a public way. Ramps may be reduced to three feet wide when approved in
writing by the Chief.
B. All emergency plans, procedures, and evacuation signs shall be submitted to the
Fire Department for approval prior to implementation. The approved copy of the
Fire/Life Safety Program shall be available for review by the Chief.
C. Fire drills shall be scheduled and performed quarterly for each shift
implementing the fire/life safety emergency procedures. A written record shall be kept on
forms approved by the Chief of all such drills. Records shall give the date and time of
each drill held. Records shall be maintained for a period of three years and be available
for review by the Chief.
D. The evacuation plan shall be posted throughout the facility and shall include the
following minimum requirements:
3. The location of portable fire extinguishers and other fire protection equipment.
4. The phone number of the Fire Department.
5. Designation of outside refuge areas where guests or patients are to assemble after
evacuation of the building.
E. The Fire/Life Safety Program shall be updated and approved annually. All
personnel shall receive approved training conducted by the Department or by a health
care facility instructor who is certified in accordance with Division 6 of this article. New
employees shall receive such training within 30 days of employment.
EXCEPTIONS:
The handling and storage of flammable and combustible liquids, the use and
maintenance of dispensing and transfer apparatus, spray booths, underground and
aboveground tanks, and similar equipment shall comply with applicable divisions of this
article.
1. Approved containers, other than safety cans, shall not exceed a capacity of one
gallon.
2. Glass containers shall not exceed a capacity of 32 ounces and shall not be used
for Class I or II liquids unless such Class I or II liquids are water miscible.
3. Not more than 10 gallons of Class I, II, or IIIA liquids in combination shall be
stored in closed containers, other than safety cans, outside of a Hazardous Materials
Cabinet or Hazardous Materials Room.
4. Not more than 25 gallons of Class I. II, or IIIA liquids in combination shall be
stored in safety cans outside of a Hazardous Materials Room.
5. Quantities of Class I. II. or IIIA liquids in excess of those set forth in this section
shall be stored in a Hazardous Materials Cabinet or Hazardous Materials Room.
B. Ether:
1. Not more than five pounds of ether in approved containers may be stored in an
anesthetizing area with no individual container to exceed one-quarter pound.
2. Not more than 25 pounds of ether in approved containers shall be stored outside
of a Hazardous Materials Cabinet or Hazardous Materials Room. Such storage shall be
remote from the anesthetizing area and shall be in a well ventilated room without open
flame devices.
C. Dated Materials:
2. An hazardous materials with a limited safe use time shall be dated upon receipt
and at such time the container is opened for use. The dates shall be clearly marked in
indelible ink. Hazardous materials shall be disposed of in a safe manner when the
material has passed the limited safe use time.
B. Containers: Cylinders and fittings for compressed gases shall conform to the
Federal Regulations of the Department of Transportation. Compressed gas cylinders shall
be secured by chains, metal straps, or other approved materials to prevent overturning.
Compressed gas cylinders shall be clearly marked with the name of the gas contained
therein. Cylinders shall bear color markings and labels conforming to the following:
GAS COLOR
Oxygen Green
Cyclopropane Orange
Helium Brown
Ethylene Red
NOTE: Polished metal or chrome-plated cylinders shall have color tags in addition to
color markings and labels.
B. Appliances employing open flame radiated heat shall have fixed and
substantially constructed metallic guards located not less than 10 inches from the
radiating flame, with guard members spaced not more than two inches apart.
C. Cabinet type appliances that are not provided with an inner combustion chamber
and an air circulating space between the combustion chamber and the outer shell shall
have fixed and substantially constructed metallic guards located not less than three inches
from the shell and spaced not more than two inches apart.
D. No person shall operate, maintain, or allow to exist any portable unvented fuel-
burning heater in any institutional occupancy.
All lights protruding from any wall or ceiling shall be provided with suitable guards to
prevent their accidental breakage or contact with readily ignitable materials.
B. The Department shall charge and collect a fee for any final clearance approval
inspection in connection with the issuance of a state license to operate a residential care
facility housing non-ambulatory elderly persons. The fee shall be established in the same
manner as is provided for the establishment of fees under Section 57.04.12-C of this
Code, but shall not exceed any fee for such inspection established by the State Fire
Marshal pursuant to Section 13131.5(f) of the State Health and Safety Code.
DIVISION 115
TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
Section
57.115.01 Scope.
General Requirements
57.115.02 Permits.
57.115.03 Definitions.
57.115.06 Exits.
57.115.16 Housekeeping.
Tents
This division sets forth fire safety requirements for tents and membrane structures.
The requirements include location, type of construction, structural stability and
flammability. This division also includes general housekeeping regulations, specific fire
protection, fire prevention and exit requirements. Tents and membrane structures shall
comply with all applicable provisions of this division and Titles 19 and 24, C.A.C.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A. No person shall erect or use any tent or membrane structure which covers an
area of more than 450 square feet without a valid Permit from the Chief in accordance
with Division 5 of this article.
C. The installation of any rigid piping for utilities shall be in conformance with the
requirements of Chapter 9, Article 3, of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).
The following words and phrases used in this division shall be defined as follows:
a. Single Skin – Where there is only the single outer skin and the air pressure is
directly against the skin.
b. Double Skin – Similar to a single skin, but with an attached liner which is
separated from the outer skin and provides an air space which serves for insulation,
acoustic, aesthetic or similar purposes.
A Fire Safety Officer shall be provided in accordance with Section 57.01.32 of this
article and the following conditions:
A. Occupant loads up to 500 shall require a minimum of (1) Fire Safety Officer.
B. Each additional 1,000 occupants, or fraction thereof, shall require (1) additional
Fire Safety Officer.
EXCEPTION:
The Chief may modify or approve an alternate method of compliance with this section
if minimum life safety requirements are met.
B. Air-supported and air-inflated structures shall have the design and construction
of the fabric envelope and the method of anchoring in accordance with Chapter 2-55, Part
2, Title 24, C.A.C.
EXCEPTIONS:
A. All exits shall include passageways from the tent or membrane structure to a
public way which shall be unobstructed and equal in width to the combined width of the
exits they serve.
TABLE 115-A
Tent
Membrane Structure
20 to 49
2
3
3
50 to 299
2
4
4
300 to 599
3
5
Occupant Load Over 299 Not Permitted
600 to 999
4
6
1000 to 1999
5
8
E. Exit openings from any tent shall remain open or may be covered by a flame-
retardant curtain, provided that:
1. Exit door curtains shall be free-sliding on a metal support. The support shall be a
minimum of seven feet above the floor level at the exit. The curtains shall be so arranged
that when open no part of the curtains shall obstruct the exit.
F. Exit doors from membrane structures shall swing in the direction of exit travel.
To avoid hazardous pressure loss, all such doors shall be automatically closing against
operating pressures. Opening force at the door edge shall not exceed 15 pounds.
A. Exits, aisles, and passageways shall not be blocked nor have their minimum
clear width obstructed in any manner by ticket offices, turnstiles, concessions, chairs,
equipment, animal chutes, poles or guy ropes, or anything whatsoever, nor shall they be
blocked by persons for whom no seats are available.
B. No guy wire, guyrope, or other support members shall cross any exit at a height
of less than seven feet.
A. An exit sign with letters at least six inches in height shall be provided at every
exit and wherever otherwise required to clearly indicate the direction of egress.
C. In addition, exit signs shall be illuminated in tents with occupant loads of 300 or
more persons in the manner specified below:
2. Two separate branch circuits, one of which shall be separate from all other
circuits.
A. The maximum occupant load of any tent shall be in accordance with the
provisions for assembly areas prescribed in Division 33 of this article.
C. The owner or manager of any tent or membrane structure shall be responsible for
limiting the occupant load in that tent or membrane structure in accordance with
Subsections A and B of this section.
Automotive equipment that is necessary to the operation of the establishment shall not
be parked within 20 feet of the tent or membrane structure. No other automotive
equipment or internal combustion engines shall be located within 100 feet of a tent or
membrane structure except vehicles parked on a public street shall park at least 20 feet
from any tent or membrane structure.
B. No fireworks, open flame, or other device emitting flame or fire shall be used
inside or immediately adjacent to any tent or membrane structure while open to the
public.
Liquefied flammable gas or compressed gas shall not be stored or used inside or
within 10 feet of any tent or membrane structure. The storage containers, equipment,
fittings, and appliances, and the placement, use, and operation of such equipment shall
otherwise comply with Division 41 of this article. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)
A. All comfort heating equipment shall be of a listed type and approved by the
Chief.
B. All gas, solid, or liquid fuel-burning comfort heating equipment shall be vented
in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code).
D. Comfort heating equipment shall be located as approved by the Chief, and shall
not be located within 10 feet of exits, aisles passageways, or combustible materials.
A. The side wall, drops, and top of all tents and membrane structures shall be of
flame-retardant material or shall be made fire-retardant in a manner approved by the
Chief. All bunting and other flammable decorations or effects including sawdust when
used on floors or passageways shall be treated with an approved flame-retardant solution.
B. All tents and membrane structure fabrics and all interior decorative fabrics and
materials shall be noncombustible or flame-retardant in accordance with Title 19, C.A.C.
A. All weeds and hazardous vegetation shall be removed from the area occupied by
any tent or membrane structure and from premises adjacent to or within 50 feet of any
tent or membrane structure.
B. Hay, straw, trash, and other combustible material shall not be stored within 50
feet of any tent or membrane structure.
C. The grounds both inside and outside of tents and membrane structures shall be
kept free and clear of hazardous refuse. Such waste shall be stored in approved
containers and locations in accordance with Division 21 of this article.
Portable fire extinguishers and other fire protection equipment shall be provided for
every tent or membrane structure as follows:
2. At least one Class 20B:C portable fire extinguisher shall be provided for each
dining area, power generator, and at locations where flammable or combustible liquids or
flammable gases are used, stored, or dispensed.
3. Tents with an occupant load of 1,000 or more persons shall be protected with two
approved lined hoses not less than one and one-half inches in diameter. Each hose line
shall be of sufficient length to reach one half of the area of the tent. The water supply
shall be either from a fire hydrant or from tanks having a capacity of not less than 500
gallons. There shall be a minimum flowing pressure of 60 psi at the nozzle with a one-
half inch tip.
4. Other fire protection equipment shall be provided and maintained at the premises
as may be required by the Chief.
TENTS
A. Any tent having a floor area of 1,500 square feet or less shall be located not less
than 10 feet from any property line or permanent structure as measured from the side wall
of the tent except where the property line is a street or alley.
B. Tents having a floor area in excess of 1,500 square feet but less than 15,000
square feet shall be located not less than 30 feet from property lines or permanent
structures as measured from the side wall of the tent.
C. Tents having an area of 15,000 square feet or more shall be located not less than
50 feet from any property line or permanent structure as measured from the side wall of
the tent, unless joined together by a passageway.
D. Tents shall be arranged to exit independently of each other. Tents may be joined
together by means of passageways that are open to the sky. On each side of such
passageway and directly opposite each other, there shall be provided openings equivalent
to the width of the passageway. These openings shall be equipped with sliding curtains
or left entirely open and clear of any obstruction.
E. An unobstructed passageway not less than six feet in width and free from guy
ropes or other obstructions shall be maintained on all sides of all tents having an area of
more than 1,500 square feet but less than 15,000 square feet. If the area of the tent is
15,000 square feet or more, or if the seating capacity is 1,000 or more persons, the
unobstructed passageway shall be not less than 10 feet in clear width.
A. Seats: When used for typical assembly purposes, seats in each row shall be
secured together. If 200 or more seats are used, it may be required that they be staked to
the ground.
B. Loose Chair Seating: Areas utilizing chairs for theater type seating shall comply
with the requirements of Division 33 of this article.
MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
B. Area: Membrane structures shall be limited in floor area to 6,000 square feet for
Type V-N construction and 9,100 square feet for Type II-N construction.
A Membrane structure shall be located not less than 40 feet from any property line or
permanent structure as measured from the side wall of the membrane structure except
where the property line is a street or alley.
In addition to the primary inflation system in buildings exceeding 1,500 square feet in
area, there shall be provided an auxiliary inflation system with sufficient capacity to
maintain the inflation of the structure in case of primary system failure.
1. Be powered by continuous-rated motors (at the maximum power required for any
flow condition) as required by the structural design.
2. Have adequate personnel protection such as inlet screens and belt guards (if belt
driven).
Blower inlet location shall be approved by the Chief to provide protection from air
contamination.
Section
57.118.01 Scope.
The provisions of this division and appropriate regulations in Titles 19 and 24, C.A.C.
shall apply to all new high-rise buildings.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Hospitals.
2. Buildings or structures such as power plants, steeples, grain houses, water towers,
and similar structures not normally used for human occupancy, and when so determined
by the Chief.
The entrance to the fire control room shall be identified by a sign reading, “Fire
Control Room,” in letters not less than one and one-half inches in height.
The fire control room shall contain the following equipment and shall not be used for
any other purpose:
B. The Fire Department voice communication system and handheld phone sets.
C. The fire detection and fire alarm system annunciator and control panels.
D. Elevator recall switch and a status panel indicating the location of all elevator
cars.
E. A telephone connected to the public telephone system for Fire Department use.
H. Controls for unlocking stairshaft doors when doors are locked from the stairshaft
side.
I. The air handling system (smoke evacuation) control switches and fan operation
indicators.
K. Fire pump status indicators and water supply tank status indicators.
2. The sounding of a fire alarm signal in any given area or floor shall not prohibit
voice communication to other areas or floors.
4. The amplifier and speaker wiring shall be electrically supervised and annunciated
in the building control station.
5. Installation, alteration, and major repair of the items listed in this section shall be
performed under Permit of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code), and shall be
approved by the Chief.
2. At every exterior location where an enclosed exit stairway exits to a public way.
4. In each elevator car, elevator machine room, elevator lobby, and each lobby
which exits to a public way.
E. A minimum of six handheld phone sets with cords six feet in length shall be
maintained at the building control station. One handheld phone set shall be permanently
installed and shall have a cord long enough to reach all areas of the building control
station.
SEC. 57.118.05. ELEVATOR SYSTEM.
A. General Requirements:
1. Construction: Except for the designated main floor, all elevators shall open into
elevator vestibules which are constructed with walls, floors, and ceilings having a fire-
resistive rating of not less than one hour.
2. Vestibule Openings: All vestibule openings other than those for elevator doors
and stairway enclosures shall be protected with automatic-closing fire assemblies having
not less than a 45-minute fire-resistive rating, actuated by “combustion products” type
smoke detectors. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
3. Smoke Detector: (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) Each elevator
vestibule shall be provided with an approved smoke detector located on the lobby
ceiling. The elevator controls shall be designed so that the activation of a lobby smoke
detector will cause all elevators serving that landing or floor to return non-stop to the
designated main floor and be under manual control only.
Elevators with an alternate floor recall feature shall also have an approved smoke
detector in the designated main floor elevator lobby. Activation of this smoke detector
would recall the elevator to an alternate floor designated by the Chief.
4. Elevator Keys: There shall be provided for Fire Department use in case of any
emergency, a key for the main floor switch and for each fire control elevator and
emergency elevator. These keys shall be readily accessible and in a location approved by
the Chief.
5. Sign: A permanent sign shall be installed adjacent to the elevator call station on
each floor reading “IN CASE OF FIRE USE STAIRWAY FOR EXIT. DO NOT USE
ELEVATOR.”
B. Fire Control Elevator: At least one elevator in each bank of elevators shall be
available for fire emergency service and shall have its controls designed so that key
switches located in the building control station will recall said elevator or elevators to the
designated main floor. The elevator or elevators shall be interconnected with the standby
power. This standby power shall be transferable to any other elevator in the bank and
shall be capable of operating the elevator with a full load.
C. Emergency Elevator: At least one elevator car serving all building levels shall be
made available for emergency use and shall contain the following:
1. A minimum inside car platform of four feet three inches deep by six feet eight
inches wide with a minimum clear opening width of 42 inches, unless otherwise designed
and approved to provide equivalent utility to accommodate an ambulance stretcher
having a minimum size of 22 inches by 78 inches in its horizontal position.
2. The elevator shall be subject to control from the building control station.
4. The elevator shall be identified with a permanent sign installed adjacent to the
elevator control panel in the building control station.
D. Permit: Installation, alteration, and major repair of the items listed in Subsections
A, B, and C of this section shall be performed under Permit of the Department of
Building and Safety, when such Permit is required.
B. The actuation of any fire alarm initiating device shall cause all audible alarm
devices to sound throughout the floor of actuation. Fire alarm initiating devices shall
include, but not be limited to, the following:
C. Below Grade Levels: All areas below grade level shall be provided with
mechanical ventilation.
A. Standby Power:
2. Power Loads: The power load requirements for sizing the standby power
generation system shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:
j. Lighting circuits supplying elevator lobbies, the building control station, the
generator room, and the fire pump room.
3. Transfer Time: The standby power generation system shall be equipped with
suitable means for automatically starting the generator set upon failure of the normal
electrical service and shall provide for the automatic transfer and operation of electrical
systems and equipment specified in Section 57.118.08, A-2, at full power within 60
seconds of such normal service failure.
4. Fuel Supplies: On-site fuel supplies for prime movers of standby power generator
sets shall be sufficient for at least eight hours at full demand operation.
B. Emergency Power:
2. Transfer Time: The emergency power supply system shall be so designed that
upon failure of the normal electrical service the emergency power shall be automatically
transferred and operated within 10 seconds of such service failure. Such emergency
power supply system may be separate from the standby power system specified in
Subsection A of this section.
When the standby power generation system reaches full operating capacity, the
emergency electrical systems and equipment shall be transferred thereto.
C. Installation, alteration, and major repair of the items listed in Subsections A and
B of this section shall be performed under Permit of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Electrical Code) when required.
A. All stairshaft doors at each building level shall provide access to the building for
Fire Department use.
B. There shall be provided for Fire Department use at least one access door to one
enclosed exit stairshaft that serves all building levels and the roof at the main entrance
level inside the building.
C. All enclosed exit stairways shall be continuous to each floor served in either
direction and shall be without obstructions such as intervening doors and gates.
EXCEPTION:
Approved barriers provided at the ground floor level to prevent persons traveling
downward from accidentally continuing into the basement.
1. All enclosed exit stairshaft doors which are to be locked from the stairshaft side
shall have the capability of being unlocked without unlatching, by all of the following
methods:
2. When enclosed exit stairshaft doors are locked from the stairway side, an
approved emergency communication system directly connected to the building control
station, proprietary supervisory station, or other approved emergency location shall be
available to the public and shall be provided at every fifth floor landing in each required
enclosed exit stairshaft.
Each building shall have a rooftop emergency helicopter landing facility in a location
approved by the Chief. A heliport as classified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 54 may be
accepted in lieu of the emergency helicopter landing facility. Facilities shall be installed
under Permit of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building and Plumbing Code) and should
also be in accordance with the guidelines of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 54.
A. Definitions:
Takeoff and Landing Area – The designated area on the emergency helicopter landing
facility from which helicopter departures and approaches are intended to originate or
terminate.
Touchdown Pad – The load bearing portion of the emergency helicopter landing
facility designated takeoff and landing area on which a helicopter may land.
NOTE: The touchdown pad is the same size as the takeoff and landing area.
3. Peripheral Area: The peripheral area (obstruction free safety zone) surrounding
the takeoff and landing area/touchdown pad shall be 25 feet from the edge of the takeoff
and landing area.
4. Safety Net: If the touchdown pad is elevated more than 30 inches above the
adjoining roof level, a horizontally attached safety net shall be installed around the
perimeter. The safety net shall be located in such a manner that it will not penetrate the
approach-departure paths.
EXCEPTION:
Heliport marking as defined in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 54 for private use or public use
may be accepted.
FIGURE 118-A
2. The red numeral indicates the allowable weight, in thousands of pounds, that the
facility is capable of supporting.
Section
57.119.01 Scope.
57.119.02 Definitions.
It is the intent of this section to establish an annual fee and permit process for
inspection of high-rise buildings in the City of Los Angeles.
FLOOR AREA - shall mean the entire area of each floor, mezzanine, basement, or
shaft, or a building included within the surrounding exterior walls of a building, plus any
portion not included within the surrounding exterior walls which is under the horizontal
projection of the roof or floor of the building. The term “floor area” shall also include
any garage attached to or part of such building.
COMMON AREA - shall mean that portion of the floor area which is shared by and
open to all residents of a residential occupancy, including hallways, lobby areas, meeting
rooms, recreation areas, garage and parking areas, the basement and shafts of the
building. The term “Common area” shall also include all machinery rooms, equipment
rooms and office rooms whether or not such rooms are open to all occupants or guests of
the building.
PARTIALLY VACANT BUILDING - shall mean any high rise building which is
vacant on all floors above ground level and under order from the Department of Building
and Safety to maintain that status until modifications or improvements are made to the
fire protection systems to bring them into compliance with Code.
The application for permit shall be accompanied by a signed statement by the owner
that the owner understands he, she or it is responsible for the payment of the fee imposed
by the Department pursuant to this division.
B. Investigation. The Fire Marshal shall investigate the application for initial or
renewal permit through authorized members of the Department. The application may be
approved subject to terms and conditions necessary to the safeguarding of life or property
from hazards of fire, explosion or panic. Issuance of the initial permit will be based on
inspections made pursuant to California Administrative Code Title 19 during the previous
year. Subsequent permit issuance will be based on inspections made during each
following calendar year. The application may be denied or revoked by the Department if
the building is unfit or incapable of being used, maintained or operated in compliance
with this article, other applicable laws and rules and regulations of the Department.
C. Form. Each permit shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of this
division and shall set forth upon the face thereof the following:
2. The address where the premises are located and where the address is different
from that of the applicant, the address designated by the applicant or his or her authorized
agent for mailing purposes. The mailing address so appearing shall be the address to
which all notices required or authorized by this article shall be sent unless the applicant
or permittee shall request in writing that another address be used for such purposes.
4. The date of expiration of the permit and the date upon which the annual permit
fee shall be due and payable.
A. Due Dates.
1. Initial Payment. The permit fee shall initially be due, and shall accompany the
filing of an initial permit application, on the 1st of January following the date of
construction, as that term is defined in Section 57.119.03 of this Code, or for buildings
constructed prior to the effective date of these provisions, on 1st of January following
that effective date.
2. Annual Renewal. Annual Renewal permit fees for existing permits shall become
due and payable each year on the first day of January of the calendar year and shall be
submitted with the renewal application.
3. Delinquency. Fees, whether initial or renewal, which are not paid within 60 days
after the due date shall be deemed delinquent and subject to a 50% penalty. However
that the Department shall waive the penalty, with the approval of the City Attorney, to the
extent it exceeds any extra costs caused by said delinquency.
B. (None.)
C. Computation.
1. Manner of Determining Cost. The Board, with the concurrence of the Director of
the Office of Administrative and Research Services, shall determine on a regular basis the
verifiable cost to the City for the annual inspection of high rise buildings in connection
with the issuance of the permit herein. These costs shall be the actual costs incurred as
determined by the Board. However the only costs to be considered and recovered shall
be personnel salary and benefit costs to the City for inspection of high-rise buildings.
The Board shall use these costs to develop a cost recovery schedule of applicable charges
necessary to recover City costs in connection with the issuance of the permit herein. The
Board shall adopt such costs as fees at any time during each fiscal year, but not later than
April 1. The cost recovery schedule shall recover the verifiable annual costs of
inspection of high-rise buildings which shall include the cost of collection of any fees due
and owing in connection with issuance of the permit. It shall take into consideration the
number of permits issued and affected by the permit charges within the period of time
used for reference and development of the charges. Upon adoption of a schedule of
verifiable costs by the Board, as provided herein, the Board shall transmit the Board
order to the Mayor and to the City Council. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,410, Eff.
8/27/00.)
In the event the Board fails to adopt a Board order setting forth a proposed schedule of
new fees for recovery of costs before April 1 as set forth above, or in the event, that
within 60 days after delivery by the Board of such a Board order and proposed cost
recovery schedule of fees to the Mayor and to the City Council, either the Mayor or the
Council disapproves the Board order or proposed schedule, or in the event the Council
recommends that the proposed schedule be amended to either increase or decrease any of
the fees, the proposed schedule submitted by the Board shall have no force or effect as to
those items recommended for amendment or which have been disapproved and shall not
become operative as to any such items. In such event the fees as to those items on the
proposed schedule which have been disapproved or recommended for change shall not
change during the ensuing fiscal year under said Board order, provided however, that
those remaining items not disapproved or not recommended for amendment by the
Council shall be deemed approved and, as above provided, may be published as a
schedule by the Board and said deemed approved fees shall become effective as
otherwise provided herein.
D. Manner of Assessing Fees. The cost recovery schedule adopted herein shall
impose a charge per square foot for each square foot of floor area in each building
inspected and the fee per building shall be the aggregate of such charges per square foot,
subject to the following:
1. Except for hotels and dormitories, no fee shall be charged for inspection of high-
rise buildings used primarily for residential purposes (Group R Occupancies).
2. As to hotels and dormitories, the charge per square foot shall apply only to the
common areas of the building.
3. The charge per square foot of garage area in any building shall be less than the
charge per square foot for the other areas of the building, as set forth in the schedule or
charges.
5. Where there exists beneath a high-rise building a garage serving both that
building and another building(s) all of which are under common ownership, and the
garage provides an exit(s) through which any vehicle exiting the garage may pass, the
charge per square foot shall apply to all buildings and to the garage for the purposes of
computing the fee charged herein, even though one or more of the buildings served by the
garage is not itself a high-rise building.
6. A minimal charge per building shall be imposed irrespective of the area of said
building, as set forth in the schedule.
If any owner or operator of a high-rise building does not comply with notices to
correct violations cited in the annual inspection, and more than one reinspection is
necessary, a charge based on an inspector’s hourly rate (2-hour minimum) for each
subsequent reinspection shall be added to the annual inspection fee in the event such
reinspection costs have not been charged and collected during the preceding calendar
year.
DIVISION 121
CENTRAL STATION SIGNALING SYSTEMS
Section
57.121.01 Scope.
57.121.02 Definitions.
57.121.05 Notification.
This division regulates the installation, maintenance and use of central station
signaling systems as they relate to fire protective signaling systems or devices. Unless
otherwise specifically provided in this article, the provisions of the L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 67 shall apply. When provisions of this division are in conflict with L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 67, the requirements of this division apply.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be defined as
follows:
Central Station – An office to which remote alarm and supervisory signaling devices
are connected, and where personnel are in attendance at all times to supervise the circuits
and investigate fire alarm signals.
No person shall maintain, operate, conduct, or contract with others to engage in the
operation of any central station signaling system unless a valid Permit as required by
Division 4 of this article has been issued and the operation of such system is done in
compliance with the provisions of this division.
SEC. 57.121.04. CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION.
The construction and installation of every central station signaling system shall
comply with the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 67.
A. The installing company shall notify the Chief in writing whenever a central
station signaling system has been installed in buildings or structures equipped with a fire
protection system.
B. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) The central station shall
immediately retransmit any fire alarm signals to the Fire Department.
EXCEPTION:
1. If a fire alarm signal is being verified and the subscriber states that an emergency
does not exist then a dispatch is not required.
2. Should such verification exceed six (6) rings or if the answering party cannot
provide the proper ID or asks for the dispatch of the Fire Department, the central station
shall immediately make the dispatch.
A. The central station shall have a minimum of two trained persons on duty at all
times. At least one person shall be available and present at all times to monitor, receive,
and give prompt attention to the emergency receiving equipment.
B. The central station shall be equipped with the necessary instruments for
automatically receiving and recording all signals. The time of receipt of signals shall also
be recorded automatically or manually. Copies of such records shall be made available to
the Department the business day following such request. Records shall be kept for a
minimum period of three years and shall be subject to inspection.
B. The central station shall provide two independent means to retransmit a fire
alarm signal received from buildings or structures equipped with a fire protection system
to the Fire Department.
Section
57.122.01 Scope.
57.122.02 Definitions.
57.122.04 Testing.
This division regulates the design and installation of all fire protective signaling
systems operating at 600 volts or less. Unless otherwise specifically provided in this
article, the provisions of Title 19 and Part 2 - Title 24, C.A.C., and L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 39 shall apply. When provisions of this division are in conflict with L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 39, the requirements of this division shall apply.
The following words and phrases, used in this division, shall be defined as follows:
Annunciation – A visual or visual and audible alarm at the main fire alarm control
panel which indicates the location of any alarm or trouble signal reported by a fire
protective signaling device.
Local Alarm System – A local system sounding an alarm as the result of the operation
of a manual pull station or the operation of fire protection systems, such as water flowing
in a sprinkler system, the discharge of an automatic fire extinguishing system, the
detection of smoke, or the detection of heat.
Trouble Signal – An audible and visual signal indicating an abnormal condition, such
as a circuit break or a ground occurring in the devices or wiring associated with a fire
protective signaling system.
Zone – A building or a defined area of a building which is approved by the Chief for
purposes of identifying locations of devices.
4. Telephones.
1. The electrical design of the equipment or systems shall not be integral to the
internal circuitry of the fire protective signaling systems, and;
4. Water flow and tamper switches may be connected to a listed dual function fire
alarm and security panel that is being monitored by an approved central station company
(Division 5 Permit is required). Water flow and tamper switches shall transmit an alarm
signal that is distinguishable from the security alarm signal at the central station.
C. Approval of Plans: The Chief shall review and approve all plans for fire
protective signaling systems. Upon approval, one complete set shall be retained by the
Department. Plans shall include, but not be limited to the following:
1. Floor plans showing the location of all fire protective signaling systems and all
other information necessary to determine proper initiating and signaling device coverage.
2. Electrical schematics showing the fire protective signaling system and all other
information necessary to determine the correct methods of installation. Prior to the
commencement of installation, the manufacturer and State Fire Marshal listing shall be
included for all components of the system.
F. Wiring: The wiring used for fire protective signaling systems shall be in
conformance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
EXCEPTION:
G. Control Panel: Every fire protective signaling system shall be equipped with an
approved control panel containing the necessary relays, connectors, switches, and other
similar equipment, for the proper operation of the system.
H. Detectors: Detectors shall comply with all the provisions of this subsection.
1. All detecting devices for fire protective signaling systems shall be automatic
devices actuated by heat, smoke, flame, or by sprinkler system waterflow.
EXCEPTION:
Attic areas and high temperature rooms, heater rooms, and rooms of similar use.
4. Detectors shall be installed in accordance with the spacing and area coverage for
which they are designed. Smoke detectors shall be located on the ceiling not less than six
inches from a sidewall to the near edge, or wall mounted between six inches and 12
inches down from the ceiling to the top of the detector. On smooth ceilings, a spacing of
30 feet between smoke detectors may be used as a guide where total coverage is required.
I. Alarm: The alarm sounding devices shall be capable of sounding the alarm at a
level of 10 decibels above ambient noise level measured four feet above the floor and
shall be clearly heard at all required locations. Every alarm signaling device within an
occupancy shall be of the same basic type (bells, horns, or speakers) throughout the
facility.
EXCEPTION:
Dwelling unit sounding devices may be of a different type with the approval of the
Chief.
J. Alarm Silence Switch: When an alarm silence switch is provided it shall be
located inside of a locked control panel or be actuated by a key-locking type switch. A
metal sign having the following wording shall be attached to the panel:
An alarm silence switch that is left in the “SILENCE” position shall operate a visual
alarm silence indicator and cause a trouble signal to sound until the switch is restored to
normal.
A trouble signal shall be activated upon the occurrence of a break or ground in the
wiring circuit which would indicate a malfunction in the operation of the system and/or
indicate that the system is being operated on other than primary power.
“TROUBLE” initiating contacts such as integral trouble relays of smoke detectors and
sprinkler system valve supervisory switches shall not inhibit an alarm condition from any
fire alarm initiating device.
Alarm and trouble signals shall be annunciated in the main control panel by means of
an audible signal and a visual display. Such annunciation shall indicate the building,
floor, zone, or other designated area from which the alarm or trouble signal originated.
For purposes of annunciation, zoning shall be in accordance with the following:
1. When the fire protective signaling system serves more than one building, each
building shall be considered as a separate zone.
When required by this division, zone identification of fire alarm initiating devices
such as manual pull stations, corridor smoke detectors, elevator lobby smoke detectors,
HVAC smoke detectors, waterflow switches, etc., shall be indicated on electrically
supervised circuits at the principal point of annunciation.
Upon completion of the installation of all new fire protective signaling systems or
after the alteration of any existing system, a performance test shall be conducted in the
presence of representatives of the Fire Department and the Building Department.
B. The operation of fire alarm systems must be checked at least once a month. This
test shall be performed by the owner, manager, or responsible person. The primary
purpose of this test is to verify that the system is in proper working order. Any defect
found must be repaired satisfactorily forthwith. A record of these tests shall be kept at
the control panel or other location approved by the Chief.
An approved permanent sign which reads “LOCAL ALARM ONLY – CALL FIRE
DEPARTMENT” shall be installed by each manual pull station and annunciator panel.
1. The centerline of the manual pull station shall be 48 inches above floor level.
2. Manual pull stations shall be located so that the horizontal distance of travel to a
manual pull station will not exceed 100 feet.
3. Manual pull stations shall be located adjacent to each required exit door in the
normal paths of exiting from an area or floor.
4. Manual pull stations shall be located at the roof level adjacent to the exterior door
of each stairshaft.
EXCEPTION:
In new high-rise buildings, annunciator panels shall be located in the building control
station which may not necessarily be occupied.
The following occupancies shall be equipped with an approved fire alarm system.
A. Group D Occupancies:
EXCEPTIONS:
2. When an entire facility is used for the housing of persons, none of whom is
classified as nonambulatory, the buildings or structures comprising such facility shall be
exempt from the provisions of this subsection relating to the installation of an automatic
fire alarm system, but shall not be exempt from the installation of a manual pull station
fire alarm system.
In Group D, Division 1 Occupancies the manual pull station fire alarm system shall be
of a type for the alerting of staff and attendants.
In Group D, Division 3 Occupancies such system shall be of a type for the alerting of
all occupants.
3. Automatic fire alarm systems required by this section shall be of a type which
will respond to products of combustion other than heat.
EXCEPTION:
Heat detectors may be used in closets, unusable under-floor areas, storage rooms,
bathrooms, attached garages, attics, return air plenums, laundry rooms, and rooms of
similar use.
Detectors shall be mounted on the ceiling or wall at a point centrally located in the
corridor or area giving access to rooms used for sleeping purposes. Detectors shall be
located as specified in Section 57.122.03, H.
Care shall be exercised to insure that installation will not interfere with the operating
characteristics of the detectors when activated. Detectors shall provide an alarm audible
in the sleeping area. In occupancies housing nonambulatory persons, staff and attendants
shall be provided and housed or located in such a manner that such supervisory personnel
will also be alerted upon activation of any detector required by this section.
EXCEPTION:
B. Group E Occupancies:
EXCEPTION:
A one-room classroom building having an occupant load of less than 50 when it is the
only building on the premises used as a Group E Occupancy.
Individual buildings separated by not less than 20 feet of open space may each have a
separate local signaling system in lieu of interconnecting the alarm system between
buildings.
NOTES:
a. Fire alarm systems required by these regulations shall not be construed to include
any equipment or devices not essential to the operation of the alarm system, but does not
prohibit the use of such equipment or devices when approved as an integral part of the
fire alarm system.
b. When only one building is used and the occupant load does not exceed 10, such
building shall, for the purpose of this section, be considered as one classroom.
a. An approved and listed local fire alarm system consisting of either of the
following:
(1) When not more than one fire alarm pull station is required for the premises, the
fire alarm system may consist of any device or devices approved by the Chief. Alarm
sounding devices shall have a distinctive tone, shall not be used for any other purpose,
and shall be audible throughout the premises; or
EXCEPTIONS:
1. When approved by the Chief, manual pull stations may be permitted in lieu of the
two-way communication devices as otherwise required by this section.
c. An approved and listed pre-signal fire alarm system which shall transmit the
alarm signal to a centralized location in the building or, when approved by the Chief, to a
centralized location on the premises. A manual pull station shall be provided in the
centralized location for sounding a local alarm in any building or in all buildings.
The pre-signal alarm shall, after sounding in the centralized location, automatically be
retransmitted as a local alarm after not more than 15 seconds, or, as approved by the
Chief, not more than 30 seconds, after the original initiation unless manually cut off at
the centralized location.
d. An approved and listed fire alarm system installed for alerting occupants. Such
system shall sound a local alarm upon activation of an approved and listed automatic
sprinkler system installed throughout the building. Manual pull stations shall not be
required except for one such station located in the main administrative office or at a
centralized location on the premises.
a. Except when the sounding devices of a fire alarm system have a distinctive tone
and are used for no other purpose, as permitted by Section 57.112.08 B 2 (a)(1), the
system shall provide the California Uniform Fire Code Signal as follows:
(2) In no case shall the signal be given for less than a one-minute period, and then
only in the manner indicated.
b. When electrical signal circuits are used for purposes other than for the sounding
of fire alarms or for fire drills, a special unit shall be provided that when activated by the
signal initiating circuit or by the operation of a special lever-operated transmitting device,
will automatically sound the Uniform Fire code signal over all alarm signal circuits.
5. Additions: All additions or alterations to any existing fire alarm system shall
conform to the provisions of this Section.
C. Group I Occupancies:
The arrangement, location, and type of signaling and initiating devices shall conform
to the provisions of this division for facilities housing nonambulatory persons.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. A separate approved fire alarm system shall not be required for any occupancy
housing 15 or less patients or guests when the occupancy is protected throughout by an
approved automatic sprinkler system. In such instances, signaling devices of a type as set
forth in this section for the occupancy in question, which will actuate upon operation of
the sprinkler system, shall be provided. In addition, manual pull stations shall also be
provided to activate the signaling devices.
2. A separate approved fire alarm system shall not be required for any occupancy
protected throughout by an approved automatic fire alarm system provided with manually
operated initiating devices installed to actuate the signaling devices.
Detectors shall be mounted on the ceiling or wall at a point centrally located in the
corridor or area giving access to rooms used for sleeping purposes.
Installation will not interfere with the operating characteristics of the detectors when
activated. Detectors shall provide an alarm audible in the sleeping areas. In occupancies
housing nonambulatory persons, staff and attendants shall be alerted upon activation of
any detector required by this subsection.
EXCEPTION:
D. Group R Occupancies:
b. Every hotel three or more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms.
2. General: Local fire alarm system shall be so designed that all occupants of the
building may be warned simultaneously.
EXCEPTION:
A fire alarm system need not be installed provided such apartment house or hotel is
less than three stories in height and is separated by area separation walls of not less than
four-hour fire-resistive construction in Types I, II-F.R., III, or IV H.T. buildings and two-
hour fire-resistive construction in all other types of buildings. Such area separations shall
also be restricted as follows:
1. Areas do not exceed the number of dwelling units or guest rooms permitted in
Section 57.122.08, D-1.
2. The area separation wall conforms to Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
3. The area separation wall extends to all outer edges of horizontal projecting
elements, such as balconies, roof overhangs, canopies, marquees, or architectural
projections.
4. No openings are permitted for air ducts or similar penetrations except that
openings for pipes, conduits, and electrical outlets of copper, sheet steel, or ferrous
material shall be permitted through such wall and need not be protected provided such
penetrations do not improperly impair the required fire resistance of the wall assembly.
Tolerances around such penetrations shall be cement grouted or filled with approved
noncombustible materials.
The arrangement, location, and type of signaling devices shall conform to the
provisions of this division in addition to fire protective signaling system requirements set
forth in Division 118 of this article.
F. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this section
shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not
exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more than
six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation of
any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
All fire protective signaling systems required by this division shall be maintained in an
operable condition at all times. Upon disruption or diminishment of the fire protective
qualities of such equipment, materials, or systems, immediate action shall be instituted to
effect a reestablishment of such equipment, material, or systems to their original, normal,
and operational condition. Systems shall be tested annually and in accordance with
approved written test procedures in a manner satisfactory to the Chief. An accurate
record of such tests shall be kept by the owner of the property and such records shall be
open to examination by the Chief.
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $300.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly. (Para.
Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
DIVISION 138
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER AND STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
Section
57.138.01 Scope.
57.138.03 Notification.
57.138.05 Security.
57.138.10 Hangers.
57.138.13 Signs.
The provisions of this division along with L.A.F.D. Standards No. 53 and No. 59 shall
regulate the maintenance of all automatic sprinkler systems and standpipe systems.
When the provisions of this division are in conflict with L.A.F.D. Standards No. 53 or
No. 59, the requirements of this division shall apply.
No person shall install, alter, or add to any automatic sprinkler or standpipe system
except under Permit in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).
A. Access aisles with a minimum width of three feet shall be provided to all
automatic sprinkler and standpipe control valves, test valves, Fire Department
connections, and standpipe hose cabinets.
C. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
Automatic sprinkler and standpipe supply valves shall be of the indicating type and
shall be secured in the open position to prevent tampering. Only tamper switches and/or
non-hardened chains and locks approved by the Chief shall be used.
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly.
When automatic sprinkler or standpipe systems and their associated control valves and
piping are exposed to damage by vehicles and equipment, they shall be provided with
approved collision barriers or guards.
C. Sprinkler heads which are in a location where they may be damaged shall be
protected with approved sprinkler guards.
E. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided with spare sprinklers heads as follows:
1. For systems with not over 300 sprinklers, provide six spare sprinkler heads.
2. For systems with 301 to 1,000 sprinklers, provide 12 spare sprinkler heads.
3. For systems with over 1,000 sprinklers, provide 24 spare sprinkler heads.
These spare sprinkler heads shall correspond to the type and temperature ratings of the
sprinkler heads in the system. These sprinkler heads shall be kept in a cabinet mounted
in the vicinity of the sprinkler control valve or other approved location if the control
valve is outside the building. A wrench suitable for the removal and installation of all
sprinkler heads used shall be kept in the cabinet.
Any person who violates this section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory
minimum fine of $150.00, up to and not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the
County Jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and
imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a separate offense for each and every day,
or portion thereof, during which a violation of any provision of this section is committed,
continued, or permitted by such person and shall be punishable accordingly. (Para.
Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)
Hangers used for the support of sprinkler piping shall not be used to support anything
else. Hangers shall be maintained in good repair.
Valves shall operate smoothly and shall open and close completely without leaking.
B. Fire hose shall be maintained in readiness for immediate emergency use in the
following manner:
3. A proper nozzle shall be provided for the type of hose used. Unlined hose shall
not be equipped with a nozzle shutoff.
4. All fire hose connections shall be provided with American National Standard
hose coupling screw threads as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 53.
C. Hose cabinets shall be maintained in good repair and shall only be used for the
housing of fire hose and portable extinguishers.
EXCEPTION:
In facilities utilizing rack storage, the clearances for in-rack sprinkler heads shall be in
accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 61.
SEC. 57.138.13. SIGNS.
A. All Fire Department sprinkler and standpipe inlet connections shall be provided
with approved signs indicating the type of system and the area served. Signs shall be
securely attached to the building adjacent to the inlet connections. Signs shall be not less
than eight inches in width and four inches in height.
B. Automatic sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, fire pumps, and risers shall be
provided and maintained with identification signs for all control, drain, test, and alarm
valves. Signs shall be of the standard design approved by the Chief. Directional arrows
shall be provided to indicate water flow on fire pumps and risers. (Amended by Ord. No.
167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)
D. Fire hose cabinets shall be clearly identifiable or contain a sign on the cabinet
door stating “FIRE HOSE” with letters not less than three inches in height on a
contrasting background.
E. Fire hose cabinets that contain a fire extinguisher shall also be identified with a
sign stating “FIRE EXTINGUISHER” with letters not less than three inches high on a
contrasting background.
F. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this section
shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and not
exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more than
six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation of
any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
DIVISION 140
PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Section
57.140.01 Scope.
Portable fire extinguishers are classified for use on certain classes of fires. The basic
types of fires are Class A, B, C, and D as defined:
Class A – Fires in ordinary combustible materials including, but not limited to, wood,
cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics.
Class B – Fires in flammable or combustible liquids, oils, greases, tars, oil base paints,
lacquers, and flammable gases.
Class C – Fires which involve energized electrical equipment where the electrical
nonconductivity of the extinguishing agent is of importance.
Class D – Fires in combustible metals including, but not limited to, magnesium,
titanium, zirconium, sodium, lithium, and potassium.
The selection of the type and capacity of a portable fire extinguisher shall be based on
the hazards of the area to be protected. The following three hazard levels shall be used in
determining the degree of hazard:
Light (Low) Hazard: Locations where the majority of contents contain small
quantities of Class A combustible materials, including furnishings and decorations.
These include buildings or rooms occupied as apartments, hotels, hospitals, offices,
classrooms, churches, and drinking and dining establishments having an occupant load of
less than 50. Small amounts of flammable and combustible liquids used for duplicating
machines, art departments, or printing rooms are included, provided that they are kept in
closed containers and safety stored.
Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard: Locations where the total amount of Class A and Class
B hazards are present in greater amounts than expected under light (low) hazard
occupancies. These include industrial properties, printing and publishing plants,
laundries, retail, wholesale, light manufacturing, kitchens, laboratories, auto-fueling
stations, parking garages, warehouses, and similar uses.
Extra (High) Hazard: Locations where the total amount of Class A and Class B
hazards are present in storage, production, use, and/or finished product over and above
those expected and classed as ordinary (moderate) hazards. These include woodworking,
vehicle repair, aircraft and boat servicing, plastic foam manufacturing, manufacturing
processes using Class I, II, or IIIA liquids, warehousing of high-piled storage and similar
uses.
A. No person shall recharge any portable fire extinguisher which is required by this
article to be provided and installed in any place of business unless such person holds a
valid Certificate of Registration as required by Title 19, C.A.C., or a Certificate of Fitness
as required by Division 6 of this article.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. Liquefied gas extinguishers need not be recharged except when the cylinder of
such extinguisher shows a loss of weight of five percent or more of the rated capacity as
compared with the weight shown on the extinguisher or on the label attached to the
extinguisher.
B. All other types of required portable fire extinguishers shall be inspected and/or
serviced yearly or immediately after use, whichever occurs first.
EXCEPTION:
C. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
E. Portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 pounds shall
be installed so that the top of the extinguisher is not more than five feet above the floor.
Extinguishers having a gross weight greater than 40 pounds (except wheeled type) shall
be so installed that the top of the extinguisher is not more than three and one-half feet
above the floor. In no case shall the clearance between the bottom of the extinguisher
and the floor be less than four inches.
G. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $200.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
SEC. 57.140.10. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHER SIZE AND PLACEMENT.
The minimum number, size, and type of portable fire extinguisher needed to protect a
building, structure, or premises shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of
this section.
TABLE 140-A
CLASS A HAZARDS
Type of Hazard
Minimum Extinguisher Rating
Maximum Distance in Feet
Light
2A
75
Ordinary
2A
75
Extra
4A*
75
* Two 2-1/2 gal. water type extinguishers may be used to fulfill the requirement of
one 4A rated extinguisher.
TABLE 140-B
CLASS B HAZARDS
Type of Hazard
*Minimum Extinguisher Rating
**Maximum Distance in Feet
Light
10B
30
Ordinary
10B
30
20B
50
Extra
40B
30
80B
50
* Two or more extinguishers of lower ratings shall not be used to fulfill the protection
requirements of Table 140-B.
a. At least one extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20B shall be located
outside of, but not more than 10 feet, from a door opening into any Hazardous Materials
Room.
b. At least one extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20B shall be located not
less than 10 feet nor more than 30 feet from any flammable liquid storage area outside of
a Hazardous Materials Room or adjacent to a spray booth.
c. At least one extinguisher having a rating of not less than l0B shall be located not
less than 10 feet nor more than 30 feet from any dip tank having a liquid surface area less
than 10 square feet or a capacity of less than 150 gallons. Every dip tank exceeding these
dimensions shall be equipped with an automatic fire extinguishing system complying
with Division 141 of this article.
d. At least one extinguisher having a rating of not less than l0B shall be located
adjacent to and within 50 feet of where flammable liquids are displayed for retail sale.
C. Class C Hazard: Portable fire extinguishers with Class C ratings shall be required
where energized electrical panels or equipment may be encountered which would require
a nonconducting extinguishing agent. The extinguisher size and location shall be
determined on the basis of the anticipated Class A or B hazard surrounding the electrical
equipment. Extinguishers shall be located not more than 50 feet from the Class C hazard.
D. Class D Hazard: Portable fire extinguishers for Class D hazards shall be required
on the basis of the specific combustible metal and the size and area to be covered.
Extinguishers shall be of an approved extinguishing agent and located not more than 75
feet from the Class D hazard.
E. The provisions of this section may be altered at the discretion of the Chief upon
consideration of the special features such as the use of the occupancy, the quantity,
distribution, and arrangement of the flammable or combustible materials, and the
construction of the building.
A. There shall be sufficient water outlets and hose to reach every portion of the
premises.
B. The hose shall be permanently attached to the water outlet, and a spray type
nozzle shall be permanently attached to such hose.
C. Not more than 50 feet of one-half inch hose shall be attached to any one water
outlet.
D. Not more than 75 feet of three-quarter inch or one inch hose shall be attached to
any one water outlet.
E. The hose shall be coiled and placed on a suitable reel or hangar acceptable to the
Chief, and a sign shall be placed over the installation using three-inch lettering and
stating, “FOR FIRE USE – DO NOT REMOVE.”
Every tank vehicle used for the transportation of flammable or combustible liquids
shall be provided with at least one portable fire extinguisher having a minimum 20B:C
rating.
SEC. 57.140.13. PROTECTION AGAINST FREEZING.
Unless approved for the particular location, all portable fire extinguishers located
where continued temperatures lower than 40° F. may be encountered shall be kept in a
heated cabinet or enclosure.
At least two dry chemical type portable fire extinguishers with individual ratings of
80B:C shall be located not less than 10 feet nor more than 50 feet from each heliport pad,
and positioned adjacent to exitways.
EXCEPTION:
A. At least one Class 2A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided on each floor
and distributed throughout the building or premises in such a manner that the horizontal
distance of travel to the nearest portable fire extinguisher shall not exceed 75 feet.
1. On each side of every stage or platform having an area greater than 1,000 square
feet. Stages or platforms having an area of 1,000 square feet or less shall be provided
with one extinguisher.
1. In each kitchen.
A. At least one Class 2A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided on each floor
and distributed throughout the building or premises in such a manner that the horizontal
distance of travel to the nearest extinguisher shall not exceed 75 feet.
EXCEPTIONS:
2. The following garden-type residential occupancies which have exits from each
dwelling unit or guest room opening directly on an open exit corridor, courtyard,
driveway, alley, or street shall not be required to have portable fire extinguishers:
a. Apartment houses containing 15 or less apartments and not over two stories in
height.
b. Hotels containing 19 or less guest rooms and not over two stories in height.
B. One or more additional portable fire extinguishers of suitable type and size shall
be installed for protection of special hazards in public portions of hotels and apartment
houses as designated by the Chief. These shall include:
C. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) At least one Class 2A10BC portable
fire extinguisher shall be provided in each high-rise residential occupancy unit in such a
manner that the extinguisher is immediately accessible and mounted adjacent to the main
exit.
EXCEPTION:
D. (Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Any person who violates this
section shall be punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $50.00, up to and
not exceeding $1,000.00 or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more
than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment. Each person shall be guilty
of a separate offense for each and every day, or portion thereof, during which a violation
of any provision of this section is committed, continued, or permitted by such person and
shall be punishable accordingly.
1. At least one Class 2A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided on each floor
and distributed throughout the building or premises in such a manner that the horizontal
distance of travel to the nearest extinguisher from any point in the building shall not
exceed 75 feet.
d. Storage areas: At least one Class 2A and/or l0B:C extinguisher, depending on the
type of materials stored.
B. Boarding Homes:
1. At least one Class 2A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided on each floor
and distributed throughout the building or premises in such a manner that the horizontal
distance of travel to the nearest extinguisher from any point in a building shall not exceed
75 feet.
2. One or more additional extinguishers of suitable type and size shall be installed
for the protection of special hazards as designated by the Chief. These shall include:
Every portable fire extinguisher shall have affixed thereto a tag specifying the date of
the last charge or recharge. This tag shall be affixed even though the extinguisher may
have been charged or recharged a the place of its manufacture. Such tags shall bear the
following:
B. All seal and wire assemblies used for sealing extinguishers shall use a seal press
that bears the Certificate of Registration number of the person performing the charge or
recharge of the extinguisher. Methods for sealing extinguishers other than seal and wire
methods may be approved by the Chief.
A. Each portable fire extinguisher which passes a hydrostatic test shall be fitted
with a decal or record tag of metal or equally durable material upon which the following
shall appear:
1. Date of test.
2. Test pressure.
B. The hydrostatic test record shall not be stamped or engraved on the extinguisher
shell.
EXCEPTION:
D.O.T. Cylinders.
Wetting Agent
5
Foam
5
Loaded Stream
5
Dry Chemical Stored Pressure, With Mild Steel Shells, Brazed Brass Shells, or
Aluminum Shell
12
Bromotrifluoromethane—Halon 1301
12
Bromochlorodifluoromethane—Halon 1211
12
The hydrostatic test shall comply with requirements contained in Title 19, C.A.C.
D. When portable fire extinguishers are removed from any premises for hydrostatic
testing or for any other purpose, the company performing the work shall replace them
with approved extinguishers having at least the same rating as those removed.
DIVISION 141
AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
Section
57.141.01 Scope.
Foam extinguishing systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 2 and such other provisions as may be required by the Chief.
Foam-water spray systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 2 and such other provisions as may be required by the Chief.
Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 3 and such other provisions as may be required by the Chief.
Water spray systems, including fixed systems and portable equipment used therewith,
shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 4 and such other provisions
as may be required by the Chief.
Dry chemical extinguishing systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 5 and such other provisions as may be required by the Chief.
Halon extinguishing systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 55 and such other provisions as may be required by the Chief.
C. Maintenance inspection reports shall be filed with the owner or owner’s agent
and retained for five years.
EXCEPTIONS:
1. Persons who engage in the business of servicing or testing fire alarm devices,
water flow alarm devices, or the supervisory signaling components of automatic fire
extinguishing systems shall not be subject to the licensing requirements.
2. Systems may be serviced or tested by, or under the supervision of, an qualified
person employed by the private entity who shall not be subject to the licensing
requirement unless such service or testing is performed for a fee outside of the
employment relationship.
EXCEPTION:
Portions of the automatic fire extinguishing system required for the protection of the
duct may be omitted if listed and approved grease extractors are installed.