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Los Angeles Municipal Code

MUNICIPAL CODE

CHAPTER V PUBLIC SAFETY AND PROTECTION

CHAPTER V
PUBLIC SAFETY AND PROTECTION

ARTICLE 7
FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION
(FIRE CODE)

(Art. 7, Ch. V, Amended in Entirety, Ord. No. 162,123, Eff. 5/12/87.)


Division
1 Administration

2 General Definitions and Abbreviations

3 Enforcement

4 Permits

5 Permits and General Approvals

6 Certificates of Fitness

7 L.A.F.D. Standards

8 Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Statements

9 Access, Hydrants, and Fire-flow Requirements

10 Asbestos Abatement

11 Fire Retardant Finishes and Coatings

12 Obstructions to Roofs and All Openings

13 Fire Watch

14 Unified Program Facility Permit

15 [Construction and Plan Check Inspection Services]

20 General Precautions Against Fire

21 Hazardous Refuse and Hazardous Vegetation

22 Combustible Decorations

23 Smoking

24 Fumigation and Thermal Insecticidal Fogging

25 Mountain Fire Districts

30 Storage, Handling, and Use of Flammable and Combustible Liquids in


Containers, Portable Tanks and Portable Shipping Tanks
31 Atmospheric Tanks

33 Exits and Occupant Loads

38 Tank Vehicles for Flammable and Combustible Liquids

39 Piping, Valves and Fittings

40 Gasholders and Gasholder Systems

41 Portable Container Systems

42 Stationary Container Systems

43 Special Vessel Systems

44 Cargo Tanks Used for Liquefied and Compressed Gases

45 Nonflammable Medical Gases in Noninstitutional Facilities

50 Cellulose Nitrate Film

51 Hazardous Plastics

52 Combustible Metals

53 Flammable and Explosive Dust

54 Flammable Fibers

55 Fireworks, Smokeless Powder, Small Arms Ammunition, and Small Arms


Primers

56 Matches

57 Indoor Storage of Combustibles

58 Outdoor Storage of Combustibles

60 Molten Solids

61 Industrial Ovens and Furnaces

70 Explosive Materials
71 Unstable Materials

72 Corrosive Materials

73 Oxidizing Materials

74 Toxic Materials

75 Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials

76 Organic Peroxides

79 Dry Cleaning Plants

80 Spray Painting

81 Dip Tanks

82 Flow Coat Operations

83 Electrostatic Spraying and Powder Coating

84 Drying Ovens

86 Roofing Kettles

90 Oil Wells

91 Natural Gasoline Plants and Refineries

92 Bulk Distributing Stations

93 Marine Service Stations

94 Liquefied Flammable Gas Bulk Distributing Stations, Cylinder Filling Plants and
Auto Fueling Stations

95 Marine Oil Terminals Tank Vessels and Tank Barges

96 Temporary Geological Exploratory Core Home

100 Auto Fueling Stations and Public Garages

101 Airports, Heliports, Aircraft Factories and Hangars

103 Lumber Yards


104 Tire Rebuilding Plants and Tire Storage

105 Auto Wrecking Yards, Junk Yards, and Waste Materials Handling Plants

110 Assembly Occupancies

111 Day Care and Educational Occupancies

112 Residential Occupancies

113 Institutional Occupancies

115 Tents and Membrane Structures

118 New High-Rise Buildings

119 High-Rise Building Annual Inspection and Permit Fee

121 Central Station Signaling Systems

122 Fire Protective Signaling System

138 Automatic Sprinkler and Standpipe Systems

140 Portable Fire Extinguishers

141 Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems


DIVISION 1
ADMINISTRATION

Section

57.01.01 Title.

57.01.02 Purpose.

57.01.03 Existing Conditions.

57.01.04 Validity of Other Laws.

57.01.05 Other Limitations.

57.01.06 Validity of this Article.

57.01.07 Applicability.

57.01.09 Nonresponsibility of City.

57.01.10 Interpretation of Section Numbers.

57.01.11 Authority to Recover Investigative Costs.

General Authority

57.01.18 Authority to Issue Parking Notices.

57.01.19 Authority to Recover Costs for Abatement of Nuisances.

57.01.20 Authority at Emergency.

57.01.21 Authority to Establish Barriers.

57.01.22 Authority to Make Inspections.

57.01.23 Authority to Investigate Fires or Other Emergencies.

57.01.24 Authority to Inspect.

57.01.25 Authority to Take Photographs.

57.01.26 Authority of Peace Officers.

57.01.27 Authority to Request Police Assistance.


57.01.28 Authority to Grant Variances and Waivers.

57.01.29 Authority to Approve Alternate Materials or Methods of Compliance.

57.01.30 Authority to Require Tests.

57.01.31 Authority to Issue, Suspend or Revoke Special Permits.

57.01.32 Authority to Require Fire Safety Officers.

57.01.33 Authority to Issue Copies of Educational Films or Tapes.

57.01.34 Authority of Chief to Make Rules.

57.01.35 Authority to Install, Test, and Require Maintenance of Fire Protection


Systems and Equipment.

57.01.36 Authority to Condemn.

57.01.37 Authority to Issue Passes and Credentials.

57.01.38 Authority to Assign Apparatus, Supplies, and Personnel.

57.01.39 Authority to List Hazardous Materials.

Fire Code Revision

57.01.40 Review of Article.

57.01.41 Fire Code Advisory Committee.

Official Badge

57.01.50 Badge Adopted.

57.01.51 Use and Wearing of the Badge.

57.01.52 Facsimiles and Counterfeit Badges.

57.01.53 Honorary Badges.

57.01.54 Ownership of Badges and Insignia.

57.01.55 Manufacturer’s Obligation.


57.01.57 Presentation of Badge as a Memorial to Regular Fire Department Member
Killed in the Line of Duty.

SEC. 57.01.01. TITLE.

This article, which is a portion of the “Los Angeles Municipal Code”, shall be known
as the “Los Angeles Fire Code.”

SEC. 57.01.02. PURPOSE.

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.

SEC. 57.01.03. EXISTING CONDITIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.01.04. VALIDITY OF OTHER LAWS.

Nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent the enforcement of other laws
which prescribe more restrictive limitations.

SEC. 57.01.05. OTHER LIMITATIONS.

The permissive provisions of this article shall not be presumed to waive any
limitations imposed by any other laws.

SEC. 57.01.06. VALIDITY OF THIS ARTICLE.

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.

SEC. 57.01.07. APPLICABILITY.

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.

SEC. 57.01.09. NONRESPONSIBILITY OF CITY.

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.

SEC. 57.01.10. INTERPRETATION OF SECTION NUMBERS.

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.

SEC. 57.01.11. AUTHORITY TO RECOVER INVESTIGATIVE COSTS.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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

SEC. 57.01.18. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE PARKING NOTICES.

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.

SEC. 57.01.19. AUTHORITY TO RECOVER COSTS FOR ABATEMENT OF


NUISANCES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 175,596, Eff. 12/7/03.)

In the event a public nuisance caused by the presence of flammable or hazardous


materials is abated by the Fire Department, either pursuant to its authority under this
Code or upon request by any other City department, or is abated by any other City
department having authority to abate the nuisance, the costs of abatement, including any
cost incurred by the City in using non-City personnel to abate the nuisance, shall be
recovered by the City from the person or persons creating, causing, committing, or
maintaining the nuisance.

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.

SEC. 57.01.20. AUTHORITY AT EMERGENCY.

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.

SEC. 57.01.21. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH BARRIERS.

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.

SEC. 57.01.22. AUTHORITY TO MAKE INSPECTIONS.

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:

1. Occupancy access points.

2. Devices and systems within the scope of Chief’s Regulation No. 4.

3. Utility controls.

4. Stairwells.

5. Hazardous materials/waste.

SEC. 57.01.23. AUTHORITY TO INVESTIGATE FIRES OR OTHER


EMERGENCIES.

(Title and Section Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.01.24. AUTHORITY TO INSPECT.

A. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions


of or perform any duty imposed by this article or other applicable law, or whenever the
Chief or his authorized representative has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in
any building, structure, ship, boat, vessel, aircraft, tank or vehicle, or the appurtenances
and equipment thereof or upon any premises any violation of the provisions of this article
or other applicable law, or any condition which makes such building, structure, ship,
boat, vessel, aircraft, tank, vehicle, or premises hazardous, unsafe, or dangerous, the
Chief is hereby authorized to enter such building, structure, ship, boat, vessel, aircraft.
tank, vehicle, or premises at any reasonable time and to inspect the same and perform any
duty imposed upon the Chief by this article or other applicable law provided that:

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.

SEC. 57.01.25. AUTHORITY TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS.

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.

B. Subsequent to a fire, explosion, or other emergency, sketches may be made and


photographs may be taken, as are necessary, to adequately depict the condition for the
purpose of investigation. No person shall interfere with, refuse, or obstruct such
sketching or photographing.

SEC. 57.01.26. AUTHORITY OF PEACE OFFICERS.

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.

SEC. 57.01.27. AUTHORITY TO REQUEST POLICE ASSISTANCE.

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.

SEC. 57.01.29. AUTHORITY TO APPROVE ALTERNATE MATERIALS OR


METHODS OF COMPLIANCE.

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.

SEC. 57.01.30. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE TESTS.

A. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of


this article, or to substantiate claims for alternate materials or methods of compliance, the
Department may require that evidence of tests be submitted as proof of compliance or to
substantiate claims that may be made. Such tests shall be made at the expense of the
owner or his agent.

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.

3. Each such application shall be accompanied by a renewal fee. Whenever the


application for renewal is filed prior to the expiration date of the approval, the renewal
fee shall be 50 percent of the current fee required for the first four hours. Whenever the
application for renewal is filed after the expiration date of the approval, the renewal fee
shall be as required for a new approval.

4. The granting of a renewal of the approval shall be handled in the same manner as
for an original approval.

SEC. 57.01.31. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE, SUSPEND OR REVOKE SPECIAL


PERMITS.

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.

SEC. 57.01.32. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE FIRE SAFETY OFFICERS.

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:

a. Four-hour minimum work day. (Amended by Ord. No 168,304, Eff. 11/28/92.)

b. Time and one-half after eight hours.

c. Time and one-half for Saturdays and Sundays.

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.

SEC. 57.01.33. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE COPIES OF EDUCATIONAL FILMS OR


TAPES.

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.

SEC. 57.01.34. AUTHORITY OF CHIEF TO MAKE RULES.

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.

B. Every Rule of General Application to be followed by the public shall be


authorized only by order or resolution of the Board and shall be published once in a daily
newspaper and shall take effect upon such publication.

SEC. 57.01.35. AUTHORITY TO INSTALL, TEST, AND REQUIRE


MAINTENANCE OF FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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.

1. Fire Department communication systems.


2. Building communication systems.

3. Automatic elevators.

4. Heliports and emergency helicopter landing facilities.

5. Emergency power systems.

6. Fire escapes.

7. Private fire hydrants.

8. Fire assemblies.

9. Fire protective signaling systems.

10. Pilot lights and warning lights for heat- producing equipment.

11. Refrigerant discharge systems.

12. Smoke detectors.

13. Emergency smoke control systems.

14. Automatic sprinkler systems.

15. Standpipe systems.

16. Gas detection systems.

B. Installation, alteration, maintenance, and repair of the items listed in this


subsection shall be performed under the provisions of Section 57.05.20 of this article and
the supervision and control of the Chief.

1. Central station signaling systems.

2. Fire protective signaling systems.

3. Appliances, equipment, and devices used for storing, handling, processing,


producing, transporting, or dispensing of hazardous materials.

4. Liquefied flammable gas cylinders, hose, vaporizers, heat exchangers, pumps,


and pertinent equipment.

5. Portable fire extinguishers.


6. Automatic fire extinguishing systems except automatic sprinkler systems as set
forth in Subsection A.

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.

D. No person owning or having charge or control of any items listed in Subsections


A and B of this section shall maintain said items in defective condition or in a state of
disrepair, or install or maintain such in a manner that endangers life or creates a fire or
explosion hazard. No person shall violate an order of the Chief to require periodic
inspections as required by Subsection C.

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.

SEC. 57.01.36. AUTHORITY TO CONDEMN.

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.

SEC. 57.01.37. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE PASSES AND CREDENTIALS.

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”.

B. At the scene of an emergency, credentials which clearly establish the authority of


the holder hereof to enter the premises, may be honored by the 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.

SEC. 57.01.38. AUTHORITY TO ASSIGN APPARATUS, SUPPLIES, AND


PERSONNEL.

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.

SEC. 57.01.39. AUTHORITY TO LIST HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

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

SEC. 57.01.40. REVIEW OF ARTICLE.

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:

A. Number of requests for variances.

B. Number of fire hazards reported or determined by inspections.

C. Changes and technological advancements of methods, materials, and processes.

D. Investigation of fires.

E. Recommendations of the Fire Code Advisory Committee.

SEC. 57.01.41. FIRE CODE ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

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

SEC. 57.01.50. BADGE ADOPTED.

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.

SEC. 57.01.51. USE AND WEARING OF THE BADGE.

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.

SEC. 57.01.52. FACSIMILES AND COUNTERFEIT BADGES.

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.

SEC. 57.01.53. HONORARY BADGES.

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.

SEC. 57.01.54. OWNERSHIP OF BADGES AND INSIGNIA.

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.

SEC. 57.01.55. MANUFACTURER’S OBLIGATION.

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.

SEC. 57.01.57. PRESENTATION OF BADGE AS A MEMORIAL TO REGULAR


FIRE DEPARTMENT MEMBER KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY.

A. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this article, the Board of Fire


Commissioners may:

1. Cause a member’s badge and number to be retired from active service and use.

2. Cause the badge, or a similar badge, to be presented to the deceased member’s


surviving spouse, child, or person in the member’s immediate family, as a memorial
honoring the member.
B. Prior to the presentation, the Board shall cause the badge to be affixed
permanently to a plaque or within a frame, which will effectively preclude improper use
of the badge, with a statement clearly visible showing the member’s death in the line of
duty.

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.

57.02.02 General Definitions.

57.02.03 Abbreviations.

SEC. 57.02.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division set forth definitions of words, phrases, and
abbreviations found elsewhere in this article.

SEC. 57.02.02. GENERAL DEFINITIONS.

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.

Aerosol (Flammable) – A material which is dispensed from its container as a mist,


spray, or foam by propellant under pressure, and which is required to be
labeled “Flammable” under the U.S. Federal Hazardous Substances Act.

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 Fueling Station – That portion of a premises where flammable or combustible


liquids are dispensed into the fuel tanks of aircraft.

Aircraft Fueling System – An arrangement of aviation fuel storage tanks, pumps,


piping, and associated equipment installed at an airport and designed to service aircraft at
fixed positions.

Aircraft Loading Walkway – An aboveground device which is essentially mobile in


nature and which folds, telescopes or pivots from a fixed point at the finger of the airport
terminal building and is used to provide a means of ingress and/or egress between a point
in a finger of an airport terminal building and an 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.

Alter or Alteration – Any change, addition, or modification of any approved


appliance, device, system, equipment, process, occupancy, or building. “Alter” shall not
be deemed to include replacement of existing approved parts.

Ambulatory Person – Any person other than a nonambulatory person as defined


herein.

Apartment House – Any building or portion thereof which contains three or more
dwelling units or space thereof, regardless of form or ownership.

Approved – Approved by the Chief

Approved Film Container – A film container conforming to D.O.T. regulations or


otherwise approved by the Department.

Approved Testing Agency – An established and recognized agency or laboratory


regularly conducting tests or furnishing inspection services when such agency has been
approved by the Department. Agencies shall include, but not be limited to Underwriter’s
Laboratories, Factory Mutual Laboratories, National Bureau of Standards, and the
American Gas Association Laboratory.

Artificial Tree - Manufactured trees which are constructed of metallic,


noncombustible, or fire-resistive material. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

Assembly Occupancy (Place of Assemblage) – A building, portion of a building, or


premises used or intended to be used for the following:

1. The gathering together of 50 or more persons for amusement, entertainment,


education, instruction, deliberation, worship, drinking or dining, awaiting transportation,
or activities of a similar nature.

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

3. Any tent or membrane structure with a capacity of 10 or more persons.


Atmospheric Tank – Any tank designed to operate at or above atmospheric pressure,
but not more than 0.5 psig.

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.

Automatic Fire Alarm System – A device or system providing an emergency function


without human intervention and activated by a predetermined temperature rise, rate of
rise of temperature, or increase in the level of combustion products.

Automatic Fire Extinguishing System – An approved system of devices and


equipment which automatically detects a fire and discharges an approved fire
extinguishing agent on or in the area of a fire.

Automatic Sprinkler System – An automatic fire extinguishing system which


automatically detects a fire and discharges water on or in the area of a fire.

Auxiliary Fuel Tank – A tank used for fuel for a combustion engine, other than the
one supplied by the manufacturer of such engine.

Baffle – A transverse partition in a cargo tank which is not liquid tight.

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.

Barbed Wire – Twisted wires armed with barbs or sharp points.

Barge – Any vessel used for storing, handling, or transporting hazardous materials
within the limits of the Harbor of the City.

Barrel – A volume of 42 U.S. gallons.

Barrier – Any rope or other barricade placed across a street, sidewalk, or other place.

Basement – Any portion of a floor level of a building or structure which is below


grade.

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.

Blowout Preventor – A device or its appurtenances designed to safeguard against the


sudden or violent escape of any material from an oil well when high pressure gas is
encountered in drilling operations.

Board – The Board of Fire Commissioners of the City of Los Angeles.

Boarding Home (Deleted by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

Boiling Point – The temperature at which a liquid is rapidly converted to a vapor when
at a pressure of 14.7 psia.

Building Control Station – A room or area designated as the principal point of


annunciation for the fire protective signaling system, fire protection equipment, and
systems controls approved by the Department.

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.

Burning – Lighting, igniting, kindling, or setting fire to combustible materials, adding


fuel to a fire, or permitting combustible material to burn.

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.

Central Station Signaling System – A system consisting of electrically operated


circuits and equipment, which transmits alarms from buildings and structures equipped
with a fire protection system to a central station which is controlled and operated by a
Department-approved person or firm whose business is the furnishing and maintaining of
such a system and where qualified personnel are in attendance at all times to notify the
Fire Department of any alarm received.

Certificate of Fitness – A written document issued by authority of the Chief to any


person for the purpose of granting permission to such person to conduct or engage in any
operation or act for which approval of the Department is required by Division 6 of this
article.

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.

Closed Container – A container closed by means of a lid or other device so that


neither liquid nor vapor will escape from it at ambient temperatures.

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.

Combustible Metal – A metal, including but not limited to magnesium, titanium,


sodium, potassium, calcium, lithium, hafnium, zirconium, zinc, thorium, uranium,
plutonium or other similar metals, which ignite easily when in the form of fine particles
or molten metal.
Community Care Facility - Any State-licensed facility as defined in Health and Safety
Code Section 1502 including, but not limited to, adult residential care facilities, ages 18
through 64; residential care facilities for the elderly, ages 65 and over; nurseries for
infants, ages 0 through 2, excluding nurseries falling within Occupancy Group I, Division
1 or Division 1A; group homes for children, ages 2 through 17; and small family homes.
(Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

Covered Bale – Combustible fibres packed in a special container or completely


enclosed to such an extent that the fibres do not present a flash-fire hazard.

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.

Department – The Los Angeles City Fire Department.


Dip Tank – Any vat, vessel or container having a surface area in excess of one square
foot or a capacity in excess of five gallons, used in the process of dipping or immersing
objects in flammable or combustible liquids or from which flammable vapors are emitted.

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.

Dispensing Apparatus – Dispensing apparatus is the device or system of devices


including pump, motor, piping, meter, hose and nozzle used in connection with an
approved underground tank or approved pressure vessel, for the dispensing of flammable
or combustible liquids, liquefied flammable gas, or flammable gas, into the fuel tanks of
motor vehicles or approved portable containers at or in connection with an auto fueling
station.

Display – A fabrication forming a screen, a backdrop, a flat, a curtain, a wall covering,


a hanging, or other decorative effect, placed to advertise, attract attention, instruct, give
direction to, entertain, or to cover or hide unsightly background; but which is not an
architectural part of a room or building, nor a permanent part of a premises, vehicle or
marine vessel.

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.

Drying Oven – Any heated enclosure operating at atmospheric pressure and at a


temperature of over 125° F. which is used for drying or processing flammable or
combustible materials.

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.

Emergency - An unexpected situation requiring immediate action or the response of


public safety resources to preserve life, health, or property or any condition which
constitutes an immediate threat to public safety. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)
Emergency Helicopter Landing Facility – A heliport on high-rise buildings or
elsewhere for Fire Department emergency use only.

Emergency Power System – The wiring, fixtures, equipment, and luminaires in or on a


building which are required to be automatically energized from an alternate on-site
energy source within 10 seconds of failure of the normal electrical supply.

Etiologic Agent – A toxic material that is a viable microorganism which causes or


may cause human disease as defined in the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 49,
Section 173,386.

Exhibit– An item or presentation to attract notice of the public to what is interesting,


instructive, entertaining or of value; a show of talent in the arts; the displaying and
demonstrating of merchandise to attract buyers; a show of comparison for competitive
reasons in order to judge competition among persons, pets, horses, livestock, poultry and
birds but not including motion pictures, legitimate theater, opera or such other
presentations or productions held in occupancies constructed and equipped for such use.

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.

Exit Passageway – An enclosed means of egress connecting a required exit or exit


court with a public way.

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:

Class A – Explosive Materials which function by detonation, including, but not


limited to dynamite, nitroglycerine, picric acid, lead azide, fulminate of mercury, black
powder, blasting caps, and detonating primers.

Class B – Explosive Materials which in general function by rapid combustion rather


than by detonation, including, but not limited to propellant explosives (including some
smokeless powders, photographic flash powders, some special fireworks, and some
pyrotechnic signal devices.

Class C – Manufactured articles which contain Class A or B Explosive Materials, or


both, as components but in restricted quantities.
Extension Cord – A portable flexible electrical cord of any length which has one male
connector on one end and one or more female connectors on the other.

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.

Fence – A barrier made of posts, wire, cable, boards, or other material.

Field Test – The means by which a decoration composed of combustible material is


tested to determine its flammability characteristics whereby a sample of the actual
material being used is exposed to a flame for 12 seconds without self-sustaining ignition.

Film Vault – A vault approved for storage of cellulose nitrate film, constructed in
accordance with the requirements of the Building Department.

Fines – Fine combustible metal scrap and air-borne waste.

Fire Alarm - A signal which transmits notice of an emergency requiring immediate


action to safeguard life and/or property from fire. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)

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.

Fire Assembly, Automatic-closing – A fire assembly which may remain in an open


position and which will close automatically when subjected to an increase in temperature
(maximum rating of 165° F.) or the actuation of a smoke detector.

Fire Assembly, Self-closing – A fire assembly which is maintained in a normally


closed position and is equipped with an approved device to ensure closing and latching
after having been opened for use.

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 District – All fire districts established by law.

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 Equipment – Any appliance, device, or system provided or installed


for use on a premises in the event of fire. It may include, but is not limited to, fire
assemblies, fire hydrants, Fire Department connections and fire protection systems.

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 Protective Signaling System – A system of electrical devices and circuits, or


mechanical devices, installed, arranged, and maintained to form, transmit, or emit signals
indicating an emergency requiring immediate action to safeguard life and property from
fire.

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.

Fire Safety Director – A person employed by the owner, administrator, or manager of


a high-rise building, hospital, institution, or other occupancy designated by the Chief to
be responsible for the establishment, implementation, and maintenance of a Department
approved emergency plan for that occupancy, and who provides training in the use of
first aid fire equipment and employee evacuation procedures which are approved by the
Chief.
Fire Safety Officer – A Uniformed or a Certified Fire Safety Officer as stated below:

A. Uniformed Fire Safety Officer – A uniformed member of the Department


assigned to the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety.

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.

Flame Retardant/Flame Resistant – A characteristic of certain fabrics or materials


which renders them resistant to flame or fire to the extent that it will successfully
withstand standard flame resistance tests adopted by the State Fire Marshal.

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.

Flammable Solid – Any solid or semi-solid material which is classified as flammable


when tested in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 43.

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.

Fumigator – Any corporation, firm, individual, association, or employee thereof who


performs fumigation.

Gallon – One U.S. Standard Gallon.

Garage – A building or portion thereof in which a motor vehicle con- taining


flammable or combustible liquids in its tank is stored, repaired or kept.
Garage, Private – A building or portion thereof, not more than 1,000 square feet in
area, in which only motor vehicles used by the occupants of the building or buildings on
the premises are stored or kept.

Garage, Public – Any garage other than a Private Garage.

Gas – Any substance which is in gaseous form at a temperature of 70° F. and a


pressure of one atmosphere absolute.

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.

Gauge – U.S. Standard Gauge.

General Approval – A written document issued by authority of the Chief which


constitutes Department approval of the type, design, and construction of any appliance,
device, equipment, or system.

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.

Ground Kettle –Any roofing kettle not mounted on wheels.

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 Atmosphere – Any concentration of flammable gases, vapors, or dust (in


air) which exceeds 25% of the lower flammable limit.

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 Cabinet – A Cabinet constructed in accordance with the


provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 40.

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, Existing – A building over 75 feet in height which is subject to


the provisions of California Administrative Code, Title 24, Chapter 2-17, Section 2-1733
through 2-1747, inclusive and the construction of which was commenced or completed
prior to July 1, 1974.

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.

Hospital – Any building which is a “hospital building” as that term is defined in


Section 15026 of the State Health and Safety Code.

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.

Ignition Temperature – The minimum temperature required to initiate or cause self-


sustained combustion.

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.

Industrial Processing Equipment – Any piping equipment, system, appliance or


device, used or intended to be used, in an industrial manufacturing or commercial
occupancy for the handling or processing of Hazardous Materials.

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 Atmosphere – Any atmosphere in which combustion cannot occur.

Inert Gas – Any gas which is non-flammable and chemically inactive for the use
intended.

Institutional Occupancy – Any building used as a Boarding Home Convalescent


Home, Hospital, Mental Hospital, Mental Sanitarium, Nursing Home, Sanitarium, Jail,
Prison, Reformatory and building of similar type and use. Any nursery for the full-time
care of children under the age of six or homes for children six years or over. 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.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Buildings used only for private residential purposes.


2. Homes, institutions, or day care facilities which provide non- medical board,
room and care for six or fewer ambulatory children only.

Internal Valve – A valve designed and installed in such a manner as to remain in an


operable condition when the exterior parts are damaged or sheared off, and when it is
installed in a tank opening it will prevent the unintentional escape of the contents of the
tank.

Kiln – A heated enclosure for processing a substance by burning, firing or drying.

Laboratory – A building, room, or other designated area, either inside or outside a


building, devoted to experimental studies in science, or to testing, analysis, inspection,
research, or process control and development. Laboratories may contain one or more
separate laboratory work areas which involve the use of hazardous materials.
Laboratories shall be divided into two classes:

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.

Listed – Equipment or materials included on a list published by a nationally


recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency, or other organization concerned with
product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or
materials, and whose listing states that equipment or materials meet nationally recognized
standards and have been tested and found suitable for use in a specified manner.
Little Theater – Any room, hall, auditorium or premises having a stage, platform or
area designed or used for entertainment and adapted to the presentation of plays,
musicals, operas, pageants, or similar forms of entertainment, such stage, platform or area
not requiring a fire resistive curtain, automatic sprinkler system, or automatic vents.

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.

Lower Flammable Limit – The minimum concentration of a flammable gas, vapor, or


dust that will form an ignitable mixture with air at ambient atmospheric temperature and
pressure.

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.

Motel – Shall mean Hotel as defined in this article.

Motion Picture Theater – Any building or premises or portion thereof designed or


used for 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.

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.

Municipal Code – The Los Angeles Municipal Code.

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.

Non-Ambulatory Person – Any person who is unable to leave a building unassisted


under emergency conditions. It includes any person who is unable to physically and
mentally respond to a sensory signal or an oral instruction relating to fire danger, and
persons who depend upon mechanical aids such as crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs.
The determination of ambulatory or nonambulatory status of persons shall be in
accordance with Section 13131 of the State Health and Safety Code.

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 1. Occupancies housing more than six non-ambulatory persons on the


premises not including employees or relatives of the owner or operator.
Division 2. Occupancies housing six or less non-ambulatory persons on the premises
not including employees or relatives of the owner or operator.

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:

Division 1. Every occupancy where:

1. Class IA or IB liquids in aggregate quantities exceeding the exempt amounts


shown in Table 4-A are manufactured, processed, or used in open containers or open
systems;

2. Unstable materials in any amount are manufactured, processed, or used;

3. Explosive materials in any amount are manufactured, processed, or used and


wherein there is more than 10 pounds of explosive materials located on the premises at
any one time;

4. Flammable gases or liquefied flammable gases in aggregate quantities exceeding


the exempt amounts shown in Table 4-A are at any time manufactured, processed, or
used;

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.

Division 2. Every occupancy where:


1. Class IA or IB liquids in aggregate quantities exceeding the exempt amounts
shown in Table 4-A are stored, manufactured, processed, or used in closed containers or
closed systems;

2. Class IC or Class II liquids in aggregate quantities exceeding the exempt amounts


shown in Table 4-A are stored, manufactured, processed, or used in open containers or
open systems;

3. Flammable dust is in suspension in the air continuously or intermittently from


use, manufacturing, processing, or bulk storage operations;

4. Unstable materials are stored in any amount.

5. Flammable gases or liquefied flammable gases are stored in aggregate quantities


exceeding the exempt amounts shown in Table 4-A.

6. Spray-painting rooms are located.

Division 3. Every occupancy where:

1. Class IA or IB liquids in aggregate quantities exceeding the exempt amounts


shown in Table 4-A are stored in closed containers or closed systems without dispensing;

2. Class IC or Class II liquids in aggregate quantities exceeding the exempt amounts


shown in Table 4-A are stored, manufactured, processed, or used in closed containers or
closed systems;

3. Combustible liquids 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 4. Repair garages not classified as Group B, Division 1.

Division 5. Aircraft Repair Hangars.


Group I, Division 1, 2, and 3 Occupancies:

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.

Group I, Division 1A and Group I, Division 2A Occupancies:

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 I, Division 1A and 2A Occupancies shall not include homes, institutions, or


day care facilities which provide non-medical board, room, and care for 12 or fewer
ambulatory children only.

Group M Occupancies:

Division 1. Private garages, carports, sheds, and agricultural buildings.

Division 2. Fences over six feet high, tanks, and towers.

Group R Occupancies:

Division 1. Hotels, apartment houses and condominiums. Convents and monasteries


each accommodating more than 10 persons.

Division 2. Not used.


Division 3. Dwellings and lodging houses.

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 Drilling District – A district described in Section 13.01 of the L.A.M.C.

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.

Overcrowded – A condition that results from more persons occupying a room,


building, or premises than are approved by the Chief.

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.

Panic Hardware – A listed door-latch assembly incorporating an unlatching device of


which the activating portion extends across at least one-half the width of the door leaf on
which it is installed.

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.

Person – A natural person, joint venture, joint stock company, partnership,


association, club, company, corporation, business trust organization, or the manager,
lessee, agent, servant, officer or employee of any of them.
Petroleum Facility – Any Oil Well, Natural Gasoline Plant, Refiner, Bulk Distributing
Station, Marine Oil Terminal or Marine Service Station.

Place of Assemblage – Shall mean Assembly Occupancy as defined in this article.

Portable Fire Extinguisher – A portable device containing powder, liquid, or gases


which can be opened under pressure for the purpose of suppressing or extinguishing a
fire.

Portable Magazine – A stout box constructed in accordance with the provisions of


L.A.F.D. Standard No. 40 for the transportation or temporary storage of not more than
one hundred pounds of explosive materials.

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.

Process – The manufacturing, handling, blending, conversion, purification, recovery,


separation, synthesis or use of any commodity or material regulated by this article.

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.

Razor Ribbon – A metal ribbon with double-edged barbs.

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.

Representative – A duly sworn member of the Department.

Residential Occupancy – Any use of a building as an apartment house, condominium,


townhouse, hotel, dwelling, lodging house, convent, or monastery.

Responsible Resident – A person who has charge of an apartment house or hotel in


accordance with the requirements of Division 112 of this article and who maintains
primary residence therein.

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 Control Device – An approved automatic supervising device so installed that it


will, in conjunction with others of required types, maintain the required conditions of
safety for the purpose of preventing the development of any fire or explosion hazard.

Safety Ventilation System – A ventilation system used in conjunction with Ovens and
Furnaces or Industrial Processing Equipment for the purpose of preventing Hazardous
Atmospheres.

Sanitarium – A building, premises, or portion thereof, except dwellings, appropriated


to the housing, reception or care on a 24-hour basis of more than one non-ambulatory
person or more than six ambulatory persons who are receiving special care for any cause,
wherein no person receives surgical or obstetrical care and wherein no facilities are
provided for rendering such care.
School – A building, premises, or portion thereof used for education, training, or
instruction through the twelfth grade for more than six persons for more than 12 hours
per week or four hours in any one day.

Skid Tank – A portable low pressure tank or pressure vessel equipped with fixed skids
or feet, or lugs to which skids may be attached.

Small Arm Ammunition – Ammunition consisting of a metal, plastic or paper


cartridge case, and a primer and propelling charge, with without a projectile, designed to
be fired from a pistol, rifle, shotgun or automatic weapon not exceeding .75 calibre in
size, including but not limited to signaling devices and explosive rivets.

Smoke Detector – An approved device which senses visible or invisible particles of


combustion. Such detector shall bear a label or other identification issued by an approved
testing agency and listed by the State Fire Marshal.

Smoking - Lighting, igniting, holding , or possessing any lighted cigar, cigarette or


pipe, or carrying, throwing or depositing any lighted smoldering cigar, cigarette, pipe or
other smoldering material.

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.

Specimen Native Shrub – An individual shrub which is within the definition


of “Native Brush” and which is trimmed up to one-third, its height above ground, and
from the vicinity of which has been removed all dead wood, duff, and combustible litter.

Spray Booth or Spray Tunnel – A power-ventilated structure to enclose or


accommodate a spraying operation to confine and limit the escape of spray, vapor, and
residue, and to safely conduct or direct them to an exhaust system.

Spraying Area – Any area in which dangerous quantities of flammable vapor or


combustible residue, dust or deposits are present due to the operating of spraying
processes. A spraying area shall include:

1. The interior of spray booths, spray rooms or spray tunnels;

2. The interior of ducts exhausting from spraying processes;

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).

Stage – A partially enclosed portion of an assembly occupancy which is designed or


used for the presentation of plays, demonstrations, or other entertainment wherein
scenery, drops, or other effects may be installed or used and where the distance between
the top of the proscenium opening and the ceiling above the stage is more than five feet.

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.

Standing Concert Attendance - A standing gathering of persons, within a place of


assemblage, in an area where seating is not provided, where the principal attraction is the
viewing of live, on stage entertainment. (This is sometimes inaccurately referred to as
festival seating.) (Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)
Standpipe System – A wet or dry system of piping, valves, outlets, and related
equipment designed to provide water at specified pressures and installed exclusively for
the fighting of fires and classified as follows:

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.

Structure – That which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of any kind, or


any piece of work artificially built up or composed parts joined together in some definite
manner.

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.

Temporary Geological Exploratory Core Hole – A seismic test hole or exploratory


core hole used or intended to be used exclusively for geophysical, geological, and other
exploratory testing for oil, natural gas or other hydrocarbon substances to be drilled and
abandoned within 30 days from the time of commencement of actual drilling operations
unless otherwise approved for a longer period of time as specified under the provisions of
Division 5 of this article.

Tent – A shelter, canopy, structure, or enclosure made of fabric or similar pliable


material which derives its support from mechanical means such as poles, ropes, cables,
stakes, or similar devices and used, for 10 or more people. A tent shall not be supported
by air or the contents it protects.

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 2 – Materials which on intense or continued exposure could cause temporary


incapacitation or possible residual injury unless 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.

Treated Bale – A bale of combustible fibers so treated with chemicals, either by


impregnating the fibers or by dipping or spraying the bale, so that it does not present a
flash-fire hazard.
Unstable Material – Any material, other than explosives, which in the pure state, or as
commercially produced, will vigorously polymerize, decompose, condense, or become
self-reactive and undergo other violent chemical changes including explosion when
exposed to heat, friction, or shock, or in the absence of an inhibitor, or in the presence of
contaminants, or in contact with noncompatible materials. Unstable materials shall be
divided into the following classifications of hazard:

Class 4 – Materials which are readily capable of detonation or of explosive


decomposition or explosive reaction at normal temperatures and pressures. This class
includes materials which are sensitive to mechanical or localized thermal shock at normal
temperatures and pressures.

Class 3 – Materials which are capable of detonation or of explosive decomposition or


explosive reaction, but which require a strong initiating source or which must be heated
under confinement before initiation. This class includes materials which are sensitive to
thermal or mechanical shock at raised temperatures and pressures.

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.

Upper Flammable Limit – The maximum concentration of a flammable gas, vapor or


dust that will form an ignitable mixture with air at ambient temperature and atmospheric
pressure.

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.

Weeds – Plants which are defined as follows:

1. Plants which bear seeds of a downy or wingy nature.

2. Plants which are noxious or dangerous.


3. Poison oak when the conditions of its growth are such as to constitute a menace
to public health.

4. Annual grasses or other flammable vegetation which endangers public safety by


creating a fire hazard.

Welding Cart – An approved assembly consisting of a frame on which a cylinder of


flammable gas and a cylinder of oxygen or air are attached together with regulators, hose,
and torches.

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.

SEC. 57.02.03. ABBREVIATIONS.

The following abbreviations whenever used in this article shall have the meaning set
forth in this section:

A.G.A.—American Gas Association.

A.I.A.—American Insurance Association.

A.P.C.D.—Air Pollution Control District, Los Angeles County.

A.P.I.—American Petroleum Institute.

A.S.M.E.—American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

A.N.S.I.—American National Standards Institute.

A.S.T.M.—American Society for Testing and Materials.

B.T.U.—British Thermal Unit.

C.A.C.—California Administrative Code.

C.M.A.—Chemical Manufacturers Association.

D.I.S.—Division of Industrial Safety, State of California.

D.O.T.—United States Department of Transportation.

F.—Fahrenheit.

F.A.A.—Federal Aviation Administration.


F.M.—Factory Mutual Engineering Laboratories.

F.P.B.—Fire Prevention Bureau.

I.S.O.—Insurance Services Office.

L.A.F.D.—Los Angeles Fire Department.

L.A.M.C.—Los Angeles Municipal Code.

N.E.C.—National Electrical Code.

N.F.C.—National Fire Codes

N.F.P.A.—National Fire Protection Association.

Psi—Pounds per square inch.

Psia—Pounds per square inch absolute.

Psig—Pounds per square inch gauge.

U.B.C.—Uniform Building Code.

U.L.—Underwriters Laboratories, Incorporated.


DIVISION 3
ENFORCEMENT

Section

57.03.01 Duties of the Chief.

57.03.02 Office and Duties of the Fire Marshal.

57.03.03 Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety.

57.03.05 Noncompliance Inspection Fees.

57.03.06 Abatement and Notice Thereof.

57.03.07 Service of Notices.

57.03.08 Acting Without a Permit Prohibited.

57.03.09 Penalty for Violation of Legally Adopted Rules.

57.03.10 Continuing Offenses.

57.03.11 Revocation, Suspension, or Denial of Permits, Special Permits, General


Approvals, and Certificates of Fitness.

57.03.12 Notice and Hearing.

57.03.13 Appeals.

57.03.14 Voidance of Permits and Special Permits.

57.03.15 Records.

57.03.16 Postings of Orders

SEC. 57.03.01. DUTIES OF THE CHIEF.

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.

SEC. 57.03.02. OFFICE AND DUTIES OF THE FIRE MARSHAL.

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.

SEC. 57.03.03. 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:

1. The prevention of fires.

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

5. The regulation of storage, use, and handling of hazardous materials and


hazardous substances.

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.

SEC. 57.03.05. NONCOMPLIANCE INSPECTION FEES.*

(Added by Ord. NO. 170,976, Eff. 5/4/96.)

(A) Authority to Collect A Noncompliance Fee. If in the course of enforcing any


federal, state, or local law or ordinance, the Department issues a Fire/Life Safety Order to
a person or persons and the person fails to comply with that order, the Department shall
collect a Noncompliance Fee as set forth below.

(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.

(D) Procedures for Appeals to the Board of Fire Commissioners. (Amended by


Ord. No. 175,596, Eff. 12/7/03.) Any property owner upon whom a Noncompliance Fee
has been imposed may appeal to the Board of Fire Commissioners.

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.

3. Additional inspections may be required in order to determine compliance with


the Fire/Life Safety Order for purposes of preparing a Department presentation to the
Board, or designee, for determination on appeal. The fee for these inspections shall be
the hourly Inspector’s salary rate multiplied by the number of hours expended (two hours
minimum) in the reinspection process, and shall be paid by the appellant.

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.

SEC. 57.03.06. ABATEMENT AND NOTICE THEREOF.

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.

SEC. 57.03.07. SERVICE OF NOTICES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 175,596, Eff. 12/7/03.)

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.

SEC. 57.03.08. ACTING WITHOUT A PERMIT PROHIBITED.

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.

SEC. 57.03.09. PENALTY FOR VIOLATION OF LEGALLY ADOPTED RULES.

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.

SEC. 57.03.10. CONTINUING OFFENSES.


The repeal of the previous provisions of Chapter 5, Article 7, of the L.A.M.C. and the
adopting of new ones shall not be construed to commence anew the running of any time
limits which may have been imposed by law, regulation, or order of the Chief or the
Board, relating to the enforcement of such limit, notices, or orders.

SEC. 57.03.11. REVOCATION, SUSPENSION, OR DENIAL OF PERMITS,


SPECIAL PERMITS, GENERAL APPROVALS, AND CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS.

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:

1. When necessary for the protection of life and property; or

2. Violation of any provision of this article or any rule or regulation adopted


hereunder; or

3. Violation of applicable law; or

4. Violation of any of the terms or conditions of such Permit, Special Permit,


General Approval, or Certificate of Fitness; or

5. Changing the occupancy, equipment, materials, processes, or other conditions as


permitted on a premises in such a manner as to create a greater risk of fire or explosion or
less protection than was present at the time of issuance of such Permit, Special Permit,
General Approval, or Certificate of Fitness; or

6. Upon a finding by the Chief of any practice constituting a fraud upon the public;
or

7. Upon a finding by the Chief of evidence of inability, lack of necessary expertise,


or willful or negligent failure to properly and safely perform the duties for which a
Certificate of Fitness is granted.

8. Upon a finding by the Chief of evidence of a lack of cooperation with, or


courtesy to, members of the public, the Department, or other agencies in the conduct of
the activity for which the certificate was issued. (Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff.
8/20/94.)

B. No person shall act as an agent or representative for or on behalf of any person


whose Permit, Special Permit, General Approval, or Certificate of Fitness has been
revoked or suspended by the Chief with respect to any matter covered by such Permit,
Special Permit, General Approval, or Certificate of Fitness during the period of such
revocation or suspension.
SEC. 57.03.12. NOTICE AND HEARING.

No Permit, Special Permit, General Approval, or Certificate of Fitness shall be


suspended or revoked until a hearing is held by the Chief. Written notice shall be served
not less than five days and not more than 10 days prior to the date of such hearing, on the
owner or any other person lawfully in possession of such permit, approval, or certificate.
Said notice shall state the grounds of the complaint against the owner or other person
together with the time and place the hearing will be held. Service of notices and the
conduct of the hearing shall be in conformance with the requirements of Sections 11.00
and 22.02 of the L.A.M.C. Provided, however, that any Permit, Special Permit, General
Approval, or Certificate of Fitness may be temporarily suspended by the Chief for
violation of the terms thereof, when immediate action is necessary to abate conditions
dangerous to life or property, without such notice and hearing.

SEC. 57.03.13. APPEALS.

A. Right of Appeal—The revocation, suspension, or denial of any Permit, Special


Permit, General Approval, or Certificate of Fitness may be appealed to the Board within
15 days after such revocation, suspension or denial.

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.

SEC. 57.03.14. VOIDANCE OF PERMITS AND SPECIAL PERMITS.

All Permits and Special Permits shall become void upon any change of owner or
location shown on the permit.

SEC. 57.03.15. RECORDS.

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.

C. All records required to be kept by Subsections A. and B. of this section shall be


open to the inspection of the Mayor, City Council, Board, and other governmental
agencies having a valid reason for inspection of such records.
D. An records required to be kept by Subsections A. and B. of this section shall be
maintained for a period of not less than three years from the date of making of such
records.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. All records regarding installations of appliances, devices, equipment, or systems


as required in Division 5 of this article shall be retained in Department files until said
installed items are removed from that occupancy.

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.

SEC. 57.03.16. POSTINGS OF ORDERS.

(Added by Ord. No. 170,445, Eff. 5/6/95, Oper. 7/5/95.)

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.

57.04.03 Permits Required.

57.04.04 Separate Permits Required.

57.04.05 Application for Permits.

57.04.06 Permits – Investigation and Procedure for Granting – Power to Deny.

57.04.07 Permits – Form.

57.04.08 Permits – Posting and Keeping.

57.04.09 Permits – Transfer.

57.04.10 Permits – Validity.

57.04.11 Permits – Power of Revocation and Suspension.

57.04.12 Permit Fees.

57.04.13 Delinquent Fees – Uncollectible.

57.04.14 Bonds and in Lieu Deposits for Oil Wells.

57.04.15 Special Requirements for “Los Angeles City Oil Fields”.

SEC. 57.04.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division apply to Permits which constitute authority for a
continuing action by the permittee.

SEC. 57.04.03. PERMITS REQUIRED.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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:

1. Aircraft Fueling Station

2. Aircraft Refueller

3. Airport Fueling System

4. Airport, Private

5. Assembly Occupancy (Place of Assemblage)

6. Atmospheric Aboveground Tank exceeding 60 gallons capacity containing


hazardous material or hazardous waste.

7. Bulk Distributing Station

8. Central Station Signaling System

9. Church: Original fee only

10. Community Care Facility (Serving more than 6 persons)

11. Cylinder Filling Plant

12. Day Care: Non-residential buildings for more than six children. Any
residential building for more than 12 children.

13. Dry Cleaning Plant

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:

Heliports used only as emergency helicopter landing facilities on high-rise buildings,


as required by the Department.

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.

19. Marine Oil Terminal

20. Marine Service Station

21. Natural Gasoline Plant

22. Oil Well

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)

27. Special School

28. Surgical Center

29. Theater

30. Theater, Little

31. Theater, Motion Picture

TABLE 4-A

AMOUNTS OF MATERIALS EXEMPT FROM

DIVISION 4 PERMIT REQUIREMENTS


TYPE
QUANTITY

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.

7. Black Sporting Powder


5 Lbs.

8. Small Arms Ammunition


1,000 Lbs.

(Net Weight)

9. Flammable Gases
3,000 Cu. Ft.

10. Liquified Flammable Gases


60 Gal.

11. Flammable Liquids

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.

12. Combustible Liquids


Class II
240 Gal.

Class III
500 Gal.

13. Combustible Metals


500 Lbs.

14. Flammable Fibers

Loose
100 Cu. Ft.

Baled
1,000 Cu. Ft.

15. Flammable Solids


500 Lbs.

16. Toxic Materials

Class 3, 4
No exemption

Class 1, 2 Gases
400 Cu. Ft.

Solids or Liquids
100 Lbs.

Etiologic Agent
No exemption

17. Oxidizing Materials

Gases
6,000 Cu. Ft.

Liquids
50 Gal.
Solids
500 Lbs.

18. Organic Peroxides

Class I, II, III


No exemption

Class IV
10 Lbs.

19. Corrosive Materials

Liquids
200 Gal.

Solids
2,000 Lbs.

20. Ammonium Nitrate Compound Mixtures Containing More Than 60% Nitrate
Weight
1,000 Lbs.

SEC. 57.04.04. SEPARATE PERMITS REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.04.05. APPLICATION FOR PERMITS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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 name and address of the applicant;

a. A description of the property by street and number wherein or whereon the


applicant proposes to engage in the business, operation, or to occupy the premises for
which the Permit is required, and if the same has no street number, then such description
as will enable it to be easily located.

b. A statement signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized representative


signifying the applicant is in charge of such business, operation, occupation, or premises,
and agrees to comply with all regulations, laws, or ordinances pertaining thereto;

2. If the application is for a Permit to store, process, or use hazardous 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, it shall state thereon the maximum aggregate quantity of such materials
which the applicant intends to store, process, or use at any time and the business shall
comply with all inventory reporting and business plan requirements in Division 8.

3. If the application is for a Permit for assembly occupancies, it shall be


accompanied by three copies of a floor plan which clearly indicates the maximum
capacity for the proposed use. The plans shall be drawn to scale and show all seats, cross
aisles, and exit doorways in accordance with the provisions of this article.

SEC. 57.04.06. PERMITS – INVESTIGATION AND PROCEDURE FOR GRANTING


– POWER TO DENY.

A. Investigation and Procedure for Granting:

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.

B. Power to Deny: The Chief, in his 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, vehicle reasonable facilities for the establishing,
maintaining, conducting 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.

SEC. 57.04.07. PERMITS – FORM.

(Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.)

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:

A. The name of the person to whom issued;

B. The classification or type of business, operation, occupation, or premises for


which such Permit is issued;

C. The address where the business, operation, occupation, or premises is located;


and where the address is different from that of the applicant, the address designated by
the applicant or his or her authority agent for mailing purposes. The mailing address so
appearing shall be the address to which all notices required or authorized in this article
shall be sent unless the applicant or permittee shall request the Office of Finance in
writing that another address be used for such purposes;

D. The signature of the Chief printed thereon;

E. The date of expiration of the Permit, and the date upon which the annual Permit
fee shall be due and payable.

SEC. 57.04.08. PERMITS – POSTING AND KEEPING.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.04.09. PERMITS – TRANSFER.

A. Transfer of Permit – No Permit shall be transferable except when the business,


operation, occupation, or premises for which the Permit is issued, is transferred, whether
by sale or otherwise, to another person under such circumstances that the ownership after
the transfer is substantially similar to the ownership existing before the transfer.

B. Change of Location – Any change of location for a business, operation,


occupation, or premises shall require filing of a new application and payment of the
applicable fee set forth in Section 57.04.12 of this article.

SEC. 57.04.10. PERMITS – VALIDITY.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.04.11. PERMITS – POWER OF REVOCATION AND SUSPENSION.

A. By the Chief – Notwithstanding any other provisions of this article to the


contrary, the Chief shall have the power to revoke or suspend any 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 Permit as
may be specified under the authority of Section 57.04.05 of this article. Such revocation
or suspension shall be in accordance with the provisions of Division 3 of this article.
B. By the Office of Finance (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff. 6/25/00, Oper.
7/1/00.) – Whenever any person fails to comply with any provisions of this division
pertaining to Contractor’s Liability Insurance or the payment of Permit fees, the Office of
Finance upon hearing, after giving such person ten days notice in writing, specifying the
time and place of hearing and requiring the person to show cause why the Permit should
not be revoked for such failure, may revoke or suspend any one or more of the Permits
held by such person. The notice shall be served in the same manner as notices are served
under Section 21.16 of the L.A.M.C.

C. Operation After Revocation or Suspension – It shall be unlawful for any person


to engage in any business, operation, or occupation, or use any premises, after the Permit
issued therefor has been suspended or revoked pursuant to the provisions of this division
unless the Permit has been reinstated or a new Permit issued. Any person who engages in
any business, operation, or occupation, or uses any premises, after the Permit issued
therefor has been suspended or revoked pursuant to the provisions of this section, and
before such suspended Permit has been reinstated or a new Permit issued, shall be guilty
of a misdemeanor.

SEC. 57.04.12. PERMIT FEES.

A. Due Dates – New and Renewal:

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.)

1. Aircraft Fueling Station

2. Aircraft Refueller
3. Airport, Private

4. Airport Fueling System

5. Assembly Occupancy

6. Atmospheric Aboveground Tank exceeding 10,000 gallons capacity containing


hazardous materials or hazardous waste.

EXCEPTION:

Atmospheric Aboveground Tanks that are associated with an Oil Well.

7. Boarding Home

8. Bulk Distributing Station

9. Central Station Signaling System: To engage in the business of providing an


alarm service for fire protective signaling systems.

10. Church (Original fee only)

11. Cylinder Filling Plant

12. Day Care

13. Dry Cleaning Plant

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

a. Without place of assemblage

b. With one place of assemblage

c. With more than one place of assemblage

18. Laboratory
a. Class A

b. Class B

19. Marine Oil Terminal

20. Marine Service Station

21. Natural Gasoline Plant

22. Oil Well:

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.

b. Any other oil well.

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)

27. Special School

28. Theater

29. Theater, Little

30. Theater, Motion Picture

31. Variances, as provided by Section 57.01.28 of this article.

32. Rate for four hours, or fraction thereof, investigations and tests required as
provided in Section 57.01.30 of this article.

33. Assignment of a fire safety officer as provided by Section 57.01.32 of this


article.

34. Applications for General Approval as provided by Section 57.05.15 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.

2. Renewal Application Fee – Whenever an annual Permit renewal fee is required to


be paid and such fee is not paid during the two months next preceding the first day of
January of the calendar year for which the Permit is to be renewed, such fee shall be
delinquent and an additional sum equal to 50 percent of the fee so required shall be
imposed for such 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.

F. Payment or Other Communication Made by Mail – Whenever any payment,


statement, report, or other communication received by the Office of Finance is received
after the time prescribed by this division for the receipt thereof, but is in an envelope
bearing the postmark showing that it was mailed prior to the time prescribed in this
division for the receipt thereof, or whenever the Office of Finance is furnished substantial
proof that the payment, statement, report, request, or other communication was, in fact,
deposited in the United States mail prior to the time prescribed for receipt thereof, the
Office of Finance shall regard such payment, statement, report, request, or other
communication as having been received on time. (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff.
6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.)

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.)

I. Refunds – Investigation Fees, Overpayments, Duplicate Payment—Any refunds


of fees collected under the provisions of this division shall be made in accordance with
the provisions of Sections 22.12 and 22.13 of the L.A.M.C.

J. Inspection Right – Office of Finance (Amended by Ord. No. 173,276, Eff.


6/25/00, Oper. 7/1/00.) – The Office of Finance shall have the power and authority to
enter, free of charge, during business hours, any premises or place of business which
requires a Permit under the provisions of this division, and to demand exhibition of a
Permit and evidence of amount of fee paid. Any person having any Permit issued in his
or her possession or under his or her control who fails to exhibit the same and evidence of
amounts of fees paid on demand, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

SEC. 57.04.13. DELINQUENT FEES – UNCOLLECTIBLE.

(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.

SEC. 57.04.14. BONDS AND IN LIEU DEPOSITS FOR OIL WELLS.


A. Each application for a Permit for the drilling, operation, maintenance of any oil
well shall be accompanied by a bond or bonds in duplicate and executed by the applicant
as principal and by a surety company authorized to do business in this State as surety, or
by the applicant with two responsible sureties satisfactory to the City Attorney. All such
bonds shall be approved by the City Attorney as form and content.

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.

SEC. 57.04.15. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR “LOS ANGELES CITY OIL


FIELDS”.

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:

Beginning at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and North Broadway, thence


northerly on Broadway to Bishops Road, thence northwesterly on Stadium Way to
Academy Road to Effie Street, thence westerly on Effie Street and its prolongation to
Glendale Boulevard, thence southerly on Glendale Boulevard to Sunset Boulevard,
thence westerly on Sunset Boulevard to Coronado Street, thence southerly on Coronado
Street to Sixth Street, thence easterly on Sixth Street to Beaudry Avenue, thence
northerly on Beaudry Avenue to Sunset Boulevard, thence easterly on Sunset Boulevard
to the point of beginning.
B. Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 57.04.14 of this article to the
contrary, each applicant for a Permit to operate or maintain an existing oil well in
the “Los Angeles City Oil Fields,” which has been producing oil for more than 15 years
prior to January 1,1960 shall file a bond as required by Section 57.04.14 of this article;
provided, however, that the principal amount of such bond shall be in the sum of $1,500
for each well or $15,000 for 10 or more wells; provided further, however, that the lesser
amount of such bond or bonds provided by this section shall not apply to any oil well
drilled on or after January 1,1960, in the “Los Angeles City Oil Fields” and the bond
requirements of Section 57.04.14 of this article shall apply to every oil well drill on or
after January 1, 1960, at any point within the City of Los Angeles.
DIVISION 5
PERMITS AND GENERAL APPROVALS

Section

57.05.01 Scope.

57.05.02 Applications.

57.05.03 Plans and Specifications.

57.05.04 Information Required on Plans and Specifications.

57.05.05 Validity of Other Laws.

General Approvals

57.05.10 General Approvals.

57.05.11 Granting of General Approvals.

57.05.12 L.A.F.D. Label.

57.05.13 General Approvals – Expiration.

57.05.14 General Approvals – Renewal.

57.05.15 Fees.

57.05.16 General Approvals – Revocation or Suspension.

Permits

57.05.20 Permits – Required.

57.05.21 Issuance of Permits.

57.05.22 Permits – Expiration.

57.05.23 Permits – Contents.

57.05.24 Permits – Posting.

57.05.25 Inspection.

57.05.26 Completion of Work – Final Inspection Tag of Approval.


57.05.27 Authority to Require Exposure of Work.

57.05.28 Authority to Stop Work.

57.05.29 Permits – Duplication.

57.05.30 Fee Exempt Permits.

57.05.31 Fees.

57.05.32 Emergency Inspections.

57.05.33 Bonds and in Lieu Deposits for Temporary Geological Exploratory Core
Holes.

57.05.34 Blasting Permits – Insurance Required.

57.05.35 Fireworks Display – Additional Requirement.

57.05.36 Bonds and In-lieu Deposits for Oil Wells.

SEC. 57.05.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division shall apply to:

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.

B. General Approvals which constitute approval of the type, design, and


construction of any appliance, device, equipment, or system listed in Section 57.05.10 of
this article.

SEC. 57.05.02. APPLICATIONS.

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.

B. Every application for a Permit or General Approval shall be accompanied by the


required fees set forth in this division.

C. Every application for a Permit to conduct a fireworks display shall be filed no


later than 10 days prior to the date of the display.

SEC. 57.05.03. PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS.


A. Every application for a General Approval shall be accompanied by not less than
two sets of plans and specifications for the appliance, device, equipment, or system for
which such application is filed.

B. Every application for a Permit required under Subsection A of Section 57.05.20


of this article shall be accompanied by not less than three sets of plans and specifications
for the appliance, device, equipment or system for which such application is filed.

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.

SEC. 57.05.04. INFORMATION REQUIRED ON PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS.

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.

E. In lieu of detailed specifications, the Department may approve reference on the


plans to a specific section or subsection of this article or other law.
F. When plans or specifications do not comply with all provisions of this article, the
necessary changes or revisions shall be made thereto.

SEC. 57.05.05. VALIDITY OF OTHER LAWS.

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

SEC. 57.05.10. 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.

3. Roofing kettle over 15 gallons capacity.

4. Automatic or self-closing shutoff valves or internal valves hazardous materials.

5. Automatic or self-closing dispensing nozzles for hazardous materials.

6. Vaporizers or mixers for liquefied gases.

7. Portable tank or portable shipping tank.

8. Cargo tank of a tank vehicle.

9. Internal valve or dome cover for cargo tank if approved separately from tank
vehicle.

10. Hydrant cart for aircraft refueling.

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.

2. Low pressure 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.

7. Flow coat machine.

8. Drying oven.

9. Industrial oven or furnace not otherwise specified.

10. Industrial processing equipment not otherwise specified. (Amended by Ord.


No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

11. Automatic fire extinguishing system except automatic sprinkle system.

D. Record – A record of General Approvals and exceptions which may be granted


in accordance with the provisions of this section shall be maintained by the Chief. Such
record shall be available for public inspection at the office of the Bureau of Fire
Prevention and Public Safety.

SEC. 57.05.11. GRANTING OF GENERAL APPROVALS.

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.

SEC. 57.05.12. L.A.F.D. LABEL.

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:

A. The name of the manufacturer thereof.

B. The letter “L.A.F.D.” together with the General Approval number.

C. If a tank or container, the gauge of thickness of metal of which it is constructed


and the capacity thereof in gallons.

D. Such other information as may be required as a condition of the General


Approval.

SEC. 57.05.13. GENERAL APPROVALS – EXPIRATION.

A. Every General Approval granted in accordance with the provisions of this


division shall be valid for a period of three years after the date of granting, and may be
renewed for additional three year periods.

B. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed as prohibiting the continued


operation or use of any appliance, device, equipment or system for which a valid
L.A.F.D. label has been issued under the authority of Section 57.05.12 of this article.

SEC. 57.05.14. GENERAL APPROVALS – RENEWAL.

A. Applications for renewal of a General Approval shall be filed in the same


manner as for an original General Approval, except that plans and specifications are not
required.

B. Each application shall be accompanied by a renewal fee. Whenever the


application for renewal is filed prior to the expiration date of the General Approval, the
renewal fee shall be 50 percent of the fee set forth in Section 57.05.15 of this article.
Whenever the application for renewal is filed after the expiration date of the General
Approval, the renewal fee shall be the fee set forth in Section 57.05.15 of this article.

C. The granting of a renewal of a General Approval shall be handled in the same


manner as for an original General Approval.

SEC. 57.05.15. FEES.

A. Before accepting an application for any of the following General Approval


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, and upon payment of said fees, shall cause them to be
deposited, with the City Treasurer.

1. General Approval (required):

1. Fire hydrant

2. Candle device for place of assemblage

3. Roofing kettle, over 15 gallons capacity

4. Automatic or self-closing shutoff valve for hazardous materials

5. Automatic or self-closing nozzle for hazardous materials

6. Vaporizer or mixer for liquefied gases

7. Portable tank or portable shipping tank

8. Cargo tank of a tank vehicle

9. Internal valve, vent, or dome cover for cargo tank

10. Hydrant cart for aircraft refueling

11. Paint, coating, or other surface finish

2. General Approval (optional):

1. Atmospheric tank

2. Low pressure 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

7. Flow coat machine

8. Drying oven

9. Industrial oven or furnace not otherwise specified

10. Industrial proceeding equipment not otherwise specified

11. Automatic fire extinguishing system except automatic sprinkler system

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.

SEC. 57.05.16. GENERAL APPROVALS – REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION.

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

SEC. 57.05.20. PERMITS – REQUIRED.

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.

1. Atmospheric tank exceeding 60 gallons capacity.

2. Low pressure tank exceeding 60 gallons water capacity.

3. Pressure vessel exceeding 60 gallons water capacity.

4. Special vessel.

5. Gas holder exceeding 3,000 standard cubic feet.

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.

8. Flow coat machine.

9. Drying oven.

10. Industrial oven or furnace, not otherwise specified.

11. Industrial proceeding equipment, not otherwise specified.

12. Fumigation chamber

13. Automatic fire extinguishing system except automatic sprinkler system.

14. Compressed or liquefied gas manifold (stationary).

15. Dual collecting systems.

16. Dry cleaning equipment, not otherwise specified.

17. Drill or redrill any oil well.

18. Asbestos Abatement. (Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

B. Add to or alter any item, including ducting or piping connected thereto, as set
forth in Subsection A of this section.

C. Conduct any of the following operations.


1. Fireworks display.

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.

4. Transfer flammable gas, liquefied flammable gas, flammable liquids or


combustible liquids as provided for in exception to Subsection A of Section 57.38.08 of
this article, or in any other manner not specifically regulated by this article.

5. Abandon oil well or underground tank.

6. Burn any hazardous refuse in an open outdoor fire.

7. Temporarily store explosives in a manner not otherwise specifically regulated by


this article.

D. Use any tent or membrane structure (temporary only) 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.

G. Install any central station signaling system.

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.

I. Operate or maintain a live theater production.

SEC. 57.05.21. ISSUANCE OF PERMITS.

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.

D. The issuance of a Permit shall constitute an authorization to perform only that


work or operation described in the application for the Permit and any plans and
specifications filed in conjunction therewith.

E. The permittee accepts the Permit subject to all of the provisions and
requirements of this article.

F. No Permit shall be transferable.

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.

SEC. 57.05.22. PERMITS – EXPIRATION.

A. Every Permit required by Subsection A of Section 57.05.20 of this article shall


become void if the work authorized by such Permit has not commenced within six
months of the date of issuance, or, if the work authorized by such Permit has not been
completed within one year of the date of issuance. Thereafter, a new Permit may be
issued only upon filing a new application and payment of the required fees. The Chief
may grant extensions of time upon presentation by the permittee of satisfactory reasons
for failure to start or complete the work within the required time period.

B. Except as provided in Subsection A of this section, every Permit issued under


authority of this division shall be valid for the period of time set forth upon the face of the
Permit.

SEC. 57.05.23. PERMITS – CONTENTS.

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:

A. The operation or activity for which a Permit is issued.

B. The address or location where the operation or activity is located.

C. The name and address of the permittee.

D. The Permit number and the date of issuance.

E. The date of expiration.


F. All Permits shall have imprinted thereon the name of the Chief and the Fire
Marshal.

SEC. 57.05.24. PERMITS – POSTING.

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.

SEC. 57.05.25. INSPECTION.

A. General Requirements – Every operation or activity for which a Permit is


required by this division shall be subject to inspection by an authorized inspector of the
Department.

B. Special Requirements – In addition to the General Requirements of Subsection A


of this section, every Permit required by Section 57.05.20 of this article shall be subject
to the specific requirements of this subsection.

1. Called Inspection – No portion of any equipment intended to be covered by earth


or by enclosure within permanent portions of a building or structure shall be enclosed
until inspected and approved by the Department. An inspection shall be requested prior to
covering or enclosure of any such equipment. Such request shall be made not less than
two working days prior to the estimated time of inspection. Such installation shall not be
covered until after it has been inspected by an authorized member of the Department.

2. Final Inspection – When the construction or installation work is completed and


the appliance, device, equipment, or system is ready for operation or use, but before
being operated or used, a final inspection shall be requested. Such request shall be made
in the same manner as set forth in Subdivision 1 hereof. No such appliance, device, or
equipment shall be used or operated until the installation has been approved by the
authorized inspector making the final inspection.

SEC. 57.05.26. COMPLETION OF WORK – FINAL INSPECTION TAG OF


APPROVAL.

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.)

SEC. 57.05.27. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE EXPOSURE OF WORK.


Whenever any installation on which a called inspection is required, as specified in
Subsection B of Section 57.05.26, is covered or concealed by additional work without
first having been inspected, the Chief may require, by written notice, that such work be
exposed for inspection. The work of exposing and recovering shall not entail any expense
to the City.

SEC. 57.05.28. AUTHORITY TO STOP WORK.

Whenever any construction or installation work is being performed in violation of the


plans and specifications as provided by the Department, a written notice shall be issued to
the responsible party to stop work on that portion of the work which is in violation. The
notice shall state the nature of the violation, and no work shall be done on that portion
until the violation has been corrected.

SEC. 57.05.29. PERMITS – DUPLICATION.

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.

SEC. 57.05.30. FEE EXEMPT PERMITS.

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.

2. Any religious, charitable, educational, or other nonprofit benevolent institution


operating or conducting a carnival or similar activity when the net proceeds of the
carnival or similar activity are to be used exclusively for religious, charitable, benevolent,
educational, or civic purposes and the institution has applied for and obtained a tax
exempt registration certificate pursuant to the provisions of Section 21.75 of the
Municipal Code.

SEC. 57.05.31. FEES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 163,071, Eff. 1/30/88.)

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:

1. Atmospheric tank or low pressure tank:

(a) Shop built tank.

(b) Field erected tank not more than 3,000 barrels.

(c) Field erected tank, more than 3,000 barrels.

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:

a. Shop built vessel.

b. Field erected vessel.

3. Special Vessel:

a. Shop built vessel.

b. Field erected vessel.

4. Gas Holder:

a. Shop built gas holder.

b. Field erected gas holder.

5. Spray Booth or Spray Tunnel.

6. Dip Tank:

a. Not more than 500 gallons capacity.

b. More than 500 gallons capacity.

7. Flow Coat Machine.

8. Drying Oven.
9. Industrial Oven or Furnace not otherwise specified.

10. Industrial Proceeding Equipment not otherwise specified.

11. Fumigation Chamber.

12. Automatic Fire Extinguishing System other than automatic sprinkler system.

13. Compressed or Liquefied – Gas Manifold:

14. Install, alter or relocate Fire Hydrants on private property:

a. For the first hydrant.

b. For each additional hydrant.

15. Central Station Signaling System.

16. Dust Collecting System.

17. Dry Cleaning Equipment not otherwise specified.

18. Drill oil well or redrill oil well.

19. Asbestos Abatement. (Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 8/20/92.)

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. Every application for a Permit required by Subsection B of Section 57.05.20 of


this article adding to or altering any item set forth in Subsection A of Section 57.05.20 of
this article shall be accompanied by a fee established by the procedure set forth in Section
57.04.1. of this article.

D. Every application for a permit required by Subsections C, D, H or I of Section


57.05.20 of this article shall be accompanied a fee or fees established by the procedure
set forth in Section 57.04.12-c of this article for any of the following:

1. Conduct any fireworks display:

a. Ground displays only; fee per day or portion thereof


b. Aerial burst with mortars not over six inches in diameter; fee per day or portion
thereof.

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.

4. Use any tent or membrane structure as a place of assemblage,

a. 450 to 3,500 square feet.

b. 3,500 to 25,000 square feet.

c. Over 25,000 square feet.

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.

7. Transfer flammable gas, liquefied flammable gas, flammable liquids or


combustible liquids in a manner not otherwise regulated by this article.

8. Abandon any oil well.

9. Abandon any underground tank:

a. For the first tank.

b. For each additional tank.

10. Burn any hazardous refuse in an open outdoor fire.


11. Temporarily store explosives in a manner not otherwise specifically revealed by
this article.

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.

E. Whenever any blasting operation is to be conducted in conjunction with the


drilling of a temporary geological exploratory core hole, the Permits shall be combined
into a single Permit. The fee for any such combined Permit shall be either that specified
in Subdivisions 2 or 5 of Subsection D of this section, whichever is greater.

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.

SEC. 57.05.32. EMERGENCY INSPECTIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.05.33. BONDS AND IN LIEU DEPOSITS FOR TEMPORARY


GEOLOGICAL EXPLORATORY CORE HOLES.

A. Each application for a permit to drill a temporary geological exploratory core


hole shall be accompanied by a bond approved by the Chief and the City Attorney,
executed by the applicant as principal, and by a surety company authorized to do business
in the State, as surety, or by the applicant and two responsible sureties satisfactory to the
Chief. A bond in the sum of $1,000.00 shall be filed for each temporary geological
exploratory core hole for which the permit is requested. In lieu of filing such individual
bonds, the applicant may file a blanket bond in the sum of $3,000.00, covering all
temporary geological exploratory core holes for which the permit is requested.
1. Where the $3,000.00 blanket bond is filed, additional core holes shall be covered
thereunder by a rider to be attached thereto, specifically describing such additional
property as the bond is to cover, said rider to be executed by the principal and surety in
substantially the same manner as the bond is executed, having the approval of the Chief
and the City Attorney.

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.

G. Every temporary geological exploratory core hole shall be abandoned in a


manner approved by the Chief The method of abandonment as determined by the Chief,
shall be based upon a consideration of all safety factors, including but not limited to the
depth of the hole, the diameter of the hole, the location of the hole, and the type of soil in
which the hole is drilled.

SEC. 57.05.34. BLASTING PERMITS - INSURANCE REQUIRED.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.05.35. FIREWORKS DISPLAY – ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT.

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.

SEC. 57.05.36. BONDS AND IN-LIEU DEPOSITS FOR OIL WELLS.

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

57.06.01 Certificates of Fitness Required.

57.06.02 Certificates of Fitness – Applications.

57.06.03 Certificates of Fitness – Validity.

57.06.04 Certificates of Fitness – Information Required.

57.06.05 Certificates of Fitness – Investigation and Examination.

57.06.06 Certificates of Fitness – Validity.

57.06.07 Certificates of Fitness – Renewal.

57.06.08 Certificates of Fitness – Revocation or Suspension.

57.06.11 Certificates of Fitness – Change of Address.

57.06.12 Certificates of Fitness – Form.

57.06.13 Certificates of Fitness – Duty to Display.

57.06.14 Certificates of Fitness – Failure of the Examination.

57.06.15 Fees.

57.06.16 Fee Exempt Certificate of Fitness.

SEC. 57.06.01. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS REQUIRED.

A. No person shall, without a valid Certificate of Registration as required by Title


19, California Administrative Code, or Certificate Fitness as required by this article,
recharge or service any portable fire extinguisher.

A Certificate of Fitness to recharge or service portable fire extinguishers shall only be


required of those employees of firms or corporations who are not certified by the State
Fire Marshal and who test or service portable fire extinguishers at the place of business.

B. No person shall, without a valid Certificate of Fitness as required by this article,


conduct any blasting operation.
C. No person shall, without a valid Certificate of Fitness as required by this article,
conduct any test or certify the following fire protection equipment or systems:

1. Automatic sprinkler systems

2. Class I standpipe systems

3. Class II standpipe systems

4. Class III standpipe systems

5. Combined standpipe systems

6. Automatic elevators

7. Automatic fire assemblies

8. Emergency power systems (generators and battery systems)

9. Fire escapes

10. Fire protective signaling systems (alarm, notification, and communication


systems)

11. Fire pumps

12. Smoke control systems

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.”

2. Members of the Department of Building and Safety.

3. Uniformed members of the Fire Department.

D. No person other than a uniformed member of the Department assigned to the


Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety shall without a valid Certificate of Fitness as
required by this article, perform as a fire safety officer.

E. No person shall, without a valid Certificate of Fitness as required by this article,


perform as a health care facility instructor.
EXCEPTION:

Fire Safety Director representing building management.

F. No person shall, without a valid Certificate of Fitness as required by this article,


perform as a high-rise life/safety service.

EXCEPTION:

Fire Safety Director representing building management.

SEC. 57.06.02. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – APPLICATIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.06.03. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – VALIDITY.

Certificates of Fitness shall be valid only for the person designated on the Certificate.

SEC. 57.06.04. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – INFORMATION REQUIRED.

A. Applicants for a Certificate of Fitness to recharge or service portable fire


extinguishers shall furnish satisfactory proof to the Chief that they are competent to
install, service, and test portable fire extinguishers in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 1.

B. Applicants for a Certificate of Fitness to conduct blasting operations shall furnish


such information as may be required by the Chief to establish competency with and
adequate knowledge of explosive materials, equipment, techniques, and safety
precautions necessary to conduct safe blasting operations.

C. Applicants for a Certificate of Fitness to conduct any test as specified in


Regulation No. 4 shall furnish such information as may be required by the Chief to
establish competency with and knowledge of the materials, formulas, equipment,
techniques, standards, ordinances, and recognized good practices pertaining to the
Certificate of Fitness for which they are applying.

D. Applicants for a Certificate of Fitness to perform as a fire safety officer shall


furnish such information as may be required by the Chief to establish familiarity with,
and possession of a thorough knowledge of applicable fire prevention procedures, the Los
Angeles Fire Code, State Fire Marshal’s Rules and Regulations as contained in Title 19
of the California Administrative Code, and other applicable regulations dealing with fire,
explosion, and life safety.
E. Applicants for a Certificate of Fitness to perform as a health care facility
instructor shall furnish such information as may be required by the Chief to establish the
possession of a thorough knowledge of the Health Care Facility requirements contained
in the Los Angeles Fire Code, the California Administrative Code, and the California
Health and Safety Code, and the necessary qualifications to instruct others in Health Care
Facility requirements.

F. Applicants for a Certificate of Fitness to perform as a high-rise life/safety service


shall furnish such information as may be required by the Chief to establish qualification
to instruct and possession of a thorough knowledge of the Los Angeles Fire Code and
other applicable regulations with regard to 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.

SEC. 57.06.05. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – INVESTIGATION AND


EXAMINATION.

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:

1. Submit a written resume stating experience and training qualifications.

2. When required, appear before the Chief for a personal interview.

3. When required, satisfactorily complete a written and/or practical test pertaining


to the Certificate of Fitness.

B. The Chief may require additional information as necessary to process any


application for a Certificate of Fitness.

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.

SEC. 57.06.06. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – VALIDITY.

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.

SEC. 57.06.07. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – RENEWAL.

A. Applications for renewal of a Certificate of Fitness shall be filed in the same


manner as for an original Certificate of Fitness.
B. Applications shall be accompanied by a renewal fee. Whenever the application
for renewal is filed prior to the expiration date of the Certificate of Fitness, the renewal
fee shall be 50 percent of the fee for a new Certificate of Fitness. Whenever the
application for renewal is filed after the expiration date of the Certificate of Fitness, the
renewal fee shall be the same as for a new Certificate of Fitness.

C. The granting of a renewal of a Certificate of Fitness shall be processed in the


same manner as for an original Certificate of Fitness.

SEC. 57.06.08. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION.

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.

SEC. 57.06.11. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – CHANGE OF ADDRESS.

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.

SEC. 57.06.12. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – FORM.

The Certificate of Fitness issued by the Chief shall be in the form of an identification
card which shall:

A. State the purpose for which it has been issued;

B. State the date it is issued and the date of expiration;

C. Contain such information as may be necessary to identify the person to whom it


is issued;

D. Have affixed one print of a photograph of the person to whom it is issued;

E. Have the signature of the person to whom it is issued;

F. Have the signature of the Fire Marshal;

G. Have printed thereon in bold type the following: “THIS CERTIFICATE


IDENTIFIES, BUT DOES NOT RECOMMEND THE BEARER:” and

H. Contain additional information which the Chief considers necessary and proper
to effect the purpose of this article.

SEC. 57.06.13. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – DUTY TO DISPLAY.


Any person having been certified as required by this article shall, upon request,
display their identification and Certificate of Fitness to any person to whom they may
seek to render service or to the Chief.

SEC. 57.06.14. CERTIFICATES OF FITNESS – FAILURE OF THE EXAMINATION.

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.

SEC. 57.06.15. FEES.

A. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) Before accepting an application


for a Certificate of Fitness required by this Division, the Department shall collect the fees
required therefor as set forth in the most current cost recovery schedule published as
provided by Section 57.04.12-C and applicable thereto.

1. Recharge or Service Portable Fire Extinguishers.

EXCEPTION:

When applicant shows proof of Certificate of Registration by the State Fire Marshal,
this fee shall be waived.

2. Conduct blasting operations.

3. Conduct any test or certify the following categories of fire protection equipment,
systems, or devices:

a. Automatic sprinkler systems

b. Class I standpipe systems

c. Class II standpipe systems

d. Class III standpipe systems

e. Combined standpipe systems

f. Automatic elevators

g. Automatic fire assemblies

h. Emergency power systems (generators and battery systems)


i. Fire escapes

j. Fire protective signaling systems (alarm, notification, and communication


systems)

k. Fire pumps

l. Smoke control systems

4. Fire Safety Officer.

5. Health Care Facility Instructor.

6. High-rise Life/Safety Service.

B. Whenever an applicant fails an examination and takes a second examination


within 90 days of such failure, the fee for the second examination shall be 50 percent of
the fees set forth in Subsection A of this section.

SEC. 57.06.16. FEE EXEMPT CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS.

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

57.07.01 Los Angeles Fire Department Standards.

SEC. 57.07.01. LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT STANDARDS.

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.

Unless otherwise specifically stated to the contrary, in a particular section of this


article, whenever there is conflict between the provisions of an L.A.F.D. Standard and the
provisions of this article, the provisions of this article shall apply.

1. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 1: “Portable Fire Extinguishers” N.F.P.A. 10, 1984.

2. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 2: “Low Expansion Foam and Combined Agent


Systems,” N.F.P.A. 11,1983; and “Medium and High Expansion Foam Systems,”
N.F.P.A. 11A, 1983; and “Deluge Foam Water Sprinkler Systems and Foam-Water Spray
Systems,” N.F.P.A. 16, 1980.

3. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 3: “Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems,” N.F.P.A. 12,


1985.

4. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 4: “Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection,”
N.F.P.A. 15, 1985.

5. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 5: “Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems,” N.F.P.A. 17,


1985; and “Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems”, N.F.P.A. 17A, 1986; and “Removal
Of Smoke And Grease Laden Vapors From Commercial Cooking Equipment,” N.F.P.A.
96, 1984.

6. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 6: “Explosion Prevention Systems,” N.F.P.A. 69, 1978.

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.

8. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 8: “Cleaning or Safeguarding Small Tanks and


Containers,” N.F.P.A. 327, 1982.

9. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 9: “Cleaning Petroleum Storage Tanks,” A.P.I. Publ.


2015, Second Edition, 1976.
10. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 10: “Recommended Practice for Handling Underground
Leakage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids,” N.F.P.A. 329, 1983.

11. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 11: “Cleaning Mobile Tanks in Flammable or


Combustible Liquid Service,” A.P.I. Publ. 2013, Fifth Edition, 1975.

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.

25. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25: “Department of Transportation Materials


Regulations Board,” Parts 171 to 177, inclusive, of Subchapter A, of Chapter 1, of
Subtitle B, of Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, October 1, 1984.

26. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26: “Department of Transportation Hazardous Material


Regulation Board,” Part 178, of Subchapter C of Chapter 1, of Subtitle B, Title 49, Code
of Federal Regulations October 1, 1984; and “Portable Shipping Tanks for Flammable
and Combustible Liquids, N.F.P.A. 386, 1979.

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.

59. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 59: “Installation of Sprinkler Systems,” N.F.P.A.


13,1985; and “Recommended Practice for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of
Sprinkler Systems,” N.F.P.A. 13A, 1981; and “Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One
and Two-Family Dwellings,” N.F.P.A. 13D, 1984.

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.

57.08.03 Permit Required.

57.08.06 Requirements for Business Plans and Inventories.

57.08.07 Amendments to the Hazardous Materials Inventory Form.

57.08.08 Special Inspection.

57.08.09 Recovery of Costs for Special Inspections.

57.08.10 Inspection by the Department.

57.08.11 Permit and Form Requirements.

57.08.12 Closure of a Business.

57.08.13 Public Disclosure.

57.08.14 Trade Secrets.

57.08.15 Compliance with Release Reporting Requirements Under the Act.

SEC. 57.08.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

Authorization - An acknowledgment of compliance for an individual Unified Program


element.

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.

Business Plan - A separate Hazardous Materials Release Response Plan (HMRRP)


and Inventory for each facility, site, or branch of a business which meets the requirements
of Section 25504 of the Act.

Chemical Name – The scientific designation of a substance in accordance with the


International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry or in accordance with the system
developed by the Chemical Abstracts Service.

Certification Statement - A statement signed by the business owner, operator, or


officially designated representative that attests to all of the following:

(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.

Common Name – The designation or identification commonly used to identify a


substance other than by its chemical name including, but not limited to, a code name,
code number, trade name, or brand name.
Extremely Hazardous Substance (EHS) - Any chemical designated an extremely
hazardous substance as listed in Appendix A of Part 355 of Subchapter J of Chapter I of
Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Handle – Includes generate, sell, possess, process, store, discharge, dispose or use.

Handler - Includes any business which handles a hazardous material.

Hazardous Material or Hazardous Substance – Includes any one or more of the


following:

1. Any hazardous material, as defined in Section 57.02.02 of this article, including,


but not limited to, any combustible liquid, any irritant, any strong sensitizer which
generates pressure through exposure to heat, decomposition or other means, any
radioactive substance, or any substance which is air-reactive, corrosive, explosive,
flammable, oxidizing, toxic, unstable or water-reactive.

2. Any substance identified on the list of hazardous substances prepared by the


Director of the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Section 6382 of the Labor
Code, as set forth in Section 339 of Title 8 of the California Administrative Code,
including, but not limited to carcinogens, toxic or hazardous water pollutants, hazardous
air pollutants, airborne chemical contaminants, restricted pesticides or toxic materials.

3. Any substance identified on the list of hazardous or extremely hazardous wastes


prepared by the Director of the Department of Health Services pursuant to Section 25140
of the Health and Safety Code, as set forth in Section 66680 of Title 22 of the California
Administrative Code, including, but not limited to, wastes which could cause death,
contribute to an increase in incapacitating or irreversible illness or pose a substantial
present or potential hazard to human health or environment when improperly treated,
stored, transported, disposed or otherwise managed.

4. Any substance which has been determined to be hazardous, based upon an


appraisal or assessment by the business using the substance conducted pursuant to the
requirements of the United States Environmental Protection Agency or the California
Department of Health Services.

5. Any substance which is known by the business handling it to be likely to pose a


significant present or potential hazard to public health, safety or the environment.

6. Any substance determined by the Chief to pose a significant present or potential


hazard to public health, safety or the environment.

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.

Property Owner - Includes any person, association, partnership, firm, corporation, or


public entity appearing as the holder of title on any property as shown on the records of
the City Clerk or on the last property assessment roll of the County of Los Angeles.

Release - Includes any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying,


discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping, or disposing into the environment,
unless permitted or authorized by a regulatory agency.

SIC Code - The identification number assigned by the Standard Industrial


Classification Code to specific types of businesses.

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.

SEC. 57.08.03. PERMIT REQUIRED.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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:

A. Each business that handles or intends to handle a hazardous material or a mixture


containing a hazardous material in the City which has a quantity at any one time during
the reporting year equal to, or greater than, a total weight of 500 pounds, or a total
volume of 55 gallons, or 200 cubic feet at standard temperature and pressure for a
compressed gas; or exceeds the applicable federal threshold planning quantity for an
Extremely Hazardous Substance specified in Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Part
355, Appendix A; or exceeds the Permit amounts for hazardous materials in L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 68, shall file an application for, and obtain a Division 14 Unified Program
Facility Permit with the proper authorization listed for the Hazardous Materials Release
Response Plan (HMRRP) and Inventory Program element as required by this division.
Existing unified program facilities with existing authorizations for other unified program
elements, shall file an application to amend their existing Division 14 Unified Program
Facility Permit to include the HMRRP authorization. Division 14 Unified Program
Facility Permits with HMRRP authorizations shall be obtained on or before the first day
the business starts handling such substance and shall be renewed annually.

B. A Division 14 Unified Program Facility Permit with the HMRRP authorization


shall be valid only for the business designated on the Permit by the City. A separate
Permit shall be required for each business location having a separate street address.

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.

SEC. 57.08.06. REQUIREMENTS FOR BUSINESS PLANS AND INVENTORIES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. In addition to the requirements of Section 57.14.04. of this Code, each business


shall prepare and submit a business plan as required by this division or the Act.

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).

(d) The maximum amount of each hazardous material or mixture containing a


hazardous material disclosed in Paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) which is handled at any one
time by the business over the course of the year.

(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:

(a) immediate notification of:

(i) local emergency response personnel;

(ii) the Department and the State OES;

(iii) persons within the facility who are necessary to respond to an incident;

(b) identification of local emergency medical assistance appropriate for potential


accident scenarios;

(c) mitigation, prevention, or abatement of hazards to persons, property, or the


environment;

(d) immediate notification and evacuation of the facility; and

(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:

(i) methods for safe handling of hazardous materials;

(ii) procedures for coordination with local emergency response organizations;

(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.

E. Initial submission of the Business Plan shall be within 30 days of notification by


the Department or within 30 days of the establishment of the business, whichever is
sooner.

F. When it is determined by the Department that a business is subject to


requirements of this section or the provisions of the Act, the business shall be so notified
by the Department. Upon notification, the business shall transmit to the Department a
complete business plan and any other documentation required under the Act, as directed
by the Department, in a format prescribed by the Department, for review and approval by
the Department. The handler shall review the business plan as required by the Act, and
shall certify to the Department that the review was made and that any necessary changes
were made to the plan. Whenever a substantial change in the handler’s operations occurs
which requires a modification of its business plan, the handler shall submit a copy of the
plan revisions to the Department within 30 days of the operational change.

SEC. 57.08.07. AMENDMENTS TO THE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY


FORM.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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

B. The business handles quantities of a hazardous substance which exceed the


maximum quantities previously indicated on the Form on file with the Department; or

C. There is a change in the mode or place of storage of hazardous substances from


that indicated on the Form on file with the Department such that continued reliance on
the information already contained in the Form on file could pose a threat to the
environment or to the health or safety of individuals.
In addition to the above requirement, all businesses which are required to submit a
hazardous materials inventory form shall submit an annual inventory or a certification
statement. An amendment submitted during the year to report changes in inventory
fulfills the annual submittal requirement provided that the amendment contains the entire
inventory, including those items which have not changed.

SEC. 57.08.08. SPECIAL INSPECTION.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

In the event of an emergency, or if a business refuses or fails to disclose in a timely


manner all information required by Section 57.14.04., and by Section 57.08.06 or Section
57.08.07, the Chief may conduct a special inspection at a business site to obtain
information deemed necessary by the Chief with respect to the existence and handling of
hazardous substances as permitted by law.

SEC. 57.08.09. RECOVERY OF COSTS FOR SPECIAL INSPECTIONS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 175,596, Eff. 12/7/03.)

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.

SEC. 57.08.10. INSPECTION BY THE DEPARTMENT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Posting and Availability:

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.

SEC. 57.08.12. CLOSURE OF A BUSINESS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

Whenever a business which handles hazardous substances intends to cease, or ceases


doing business at a location, the business shall immediately notify the Chief.

SEC. 57.08.13. PUBLIC DISCLOSURE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

Information provided in an application for HMRRP authorizations shall be deemed a


public record subject to public inspection and copying pursuant to the California Public
Records Act, Section 6250 et seq. of the Government Code of the State of California, and
Division 12 of the Los Angeles Administrative Code, except where the information
involved is a trade secret or is otherwise excepted under law from requirement of public
disclosure.

SEC. 57.08.14. TRADE SECRETS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Identification:

1. If a business believes that the disclosure of information requested in the


application for a Permit or HMRRP authorization involves a trade secret which the
business wishes to protect from public disclosure, the business shall identify or list on an
additional and separate page of the application for a Permit or HMRRP authorization,
conspicuously marked or labeled as containing trade secret information, the hazardous
substance or other information that it claims should be protected as a trade secret. The
trade secret information shall not be set forth in any other part of the application.

2. Within 60 days of filing an application for a Permit or HMRRP authorization in


which a business has claimed a trade secret, the business shall file with the Department a
written substantiation of the trade secret claim. It shall also file with the City a signed
written agreement in a form acceptable to the City Attorney which indemnifies the City
for the City’s litigation expenses and costs, if any, and for any awards of damages and
attorneys fees arising out of litigation resulting from a City refusal to disclose
information claimed by the business to be a trade secret in the event such nondisclosure is
found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unwarranted.

B. Nondisclosure:

Except as provided in Subsections C, E, or G of this section, the Department shall not


disclose any information which a business indicates in its application for a Permit or
HMRRP authorization, claims to be or seeks to protect as, a trade secret.

C. Disclosure To Public Officers and Employee:

Trade secret information obtained by the Department may be disclosed to an officer or


employee of the City of Los Angeles or other public entity provided that such disclosure
is in connection with the official duty of such officer or employee under any fire
suppression, health, safety or environmental law. Trade secret information may be
disclosed to City contractors and to their employees, if in the judgment of the Chief such
disclosure is necessary for the performance of a contract with the City and to protect the
health or safety of the employees of the contractor.

D. Acknowledgment of Receipt:

Recipients of trade secret information pursuant to Subsection C of this section must


file with the Department, at the time of receipt of such information, a completed, dated,
and signed written acknowledgment of receipt of said trade secret information. The
acknowledgment shall state that the individual signing it is aware of the confidentiality of
the information received, the restrictions on its use and dissemination and the penalties
for unlawful dissemination as set forth in this section.

E. Disclosure for Medical Purposes:

Trade secret information may be disclosed to a paramedic or medical doctor by the


Department when necessary for the purposes of treating a patient, so long as the
paramedic or doctor is first advised that any disclosure of the information which is not
necessary for the treatment of the patient would constitute a misdemeanor.

F. Penalty for Unauthorized Disclosure:


A person, in possession of trade secret information disclosed to the Department
pursuant to this division, who knowingly makes further disclosure thereof to any person
not entitled to receive such information, is guilty of a misdemeanor.

G. Disclosure Pursuant to Public Record Act:

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.

H. National Defense Classification:

Information certified by an appropriate official of the United States as classified for


national defense purposes shall be accorded whatever protection against disclosure as
directed by such official as specified by applicable federal law.

SEC. 57.08.15. COMPLIANCE WITH RELEASE REPORTING REQUIREMENTS


UNDER THE ACT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

The handler or any employee, authorized representative, agent, or designee of a


handler shall, upon discovery, immediately report any release or threatened release of a
hazardous material to the administering agency, and to the Office of Emergency Services,
in accordance with the regulations adopted pursuant to Health and Safety Code Sections
25503 and 25507. Each handler and any employee, authorized representative, agent, or
designee of a handler shall provide all state, city, or county fire or public health or safety
personnel and emergency rescue personnel with access to the handler’s facilities.
Any person who violates the provisions of Section 25507 of the Health and Safety
Code shall be subject to the penalties specified in Section 25515 of the Health and Safety
Code.
DIVISION 9
ACCESS, HYDRANTS, AND FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS

Section

57.09.01 Scope.

57.09.02 Definitions.

57.09.03 Fire Department Access.

57.09.04 Fire Lane Maintenance.

57.09.05 Signs.

57.09.06 Fire-flow.

57.09.07 Response Distances That If Exceeded Require the Installation of an


Automatic Fire Sprinkler System.

57.09.08 Supplemental Fire Protection.

57.09.09 Access Box.

57.09.10 Notification.

57.09.11 Property Addresses.

SEC. 57.09.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.09.02. DEFINITIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.09.03. FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS.

A. Any person owning or having control of any facility, structure, group of


structures or premises shall provide and maintain Fire Department access in accordance
with provisions of this section.

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.

C. When required access is provided by an improved street, fire lane or combination


of both which results in a deadend in access of 700 feet in length from the nearest cross
street, at least one additional ingress-egress roadway shall be provided in such a manner
that an alternative means of ingress-egress is accomplished.

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.)

6. Where access requires accommodate of Fire Department apparatus, overhead


clearance shall not be less than 14 feet.

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.

SEC. 57.09.04. FIRE LANE MAINTENANCE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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:

Gates and Gate Devices approved by the Department.

SEC. 57.09.05. SIGNS.

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.)

B. The installation of approved fire lane signs on private roadways is the


responsibility of the owner of the property.

SEC. 57.09.06. FIRE-FLOW.


A. Fire-flows shall comply with Table 9A for an structures, group of structures or
facilities by the type of land development, or as otherwise determined by the Chief.

TABLE 9-A

FIRE-FLOW BY TYPE OF LAND DEVELOPMENT


Type of Land Development
Fire-Flow in Gallons Per Minute

Low Density Residential


2,000 G.P.M. from three adjacent fire hydrants flowing simultaneously

High Density Residential and Neighborhood Commercial


4,000 G.P.M. from four adjacent fire hydrants flowing simultaneously

Industrial and Commercial


6,000 to 9,000 G.P.M. from four to six fire hydrants flowing simultaneously

High Density Industrial and Commercial (Principal Business Districts or Centers)


12,000 G.P.M. available to any block (where local conditions indicate that
consideration must be given to simultaneous fires, and additional 2,000 to 8,000 G.P.M.
will be required).

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.

2. A minimum residual water pressure of 20 pounds per square inch is to remain in


the system with the required gallons per minute flowing.

3. (Repealed by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

B. Fire hydrant spacing and type of hydrant by 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

Low Density Residential


*150,000 Sq. Ft.
600 Ft.
2 1/2" x 4" Double Fire Hydrant
High Density Residential & Neighborhood Commercial
*100,000 Sq. Ft.
300-450 Ft.
2 1/2" x 4" Double Fire Hydrant (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944 Eff. 8/20/94).

Industrial & Commercial


*80,000 Sq. Ft.
300 Ft.
2 1⁄2" x 4" Double Fire Hydrant or 4" x 4" Double Fire Hydrant

High Density Industrial & Commercial


*40,000 Sq. Ft.
300 Ft.
4" x 4" Double Fire 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.)

PROPOSED TABLE 9-C

RESPONSE DISTANCES THAT IF EXCEEDED REQUIRE THE

INSTALLATION OF AN AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLERS SYSTEM

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,414, Eff. 2/21/99.)


* Land Use
Required

Fire Flow
** Maximum Response Distance to

LAFD Fire Station:

Residential
Housing an Engine or Truck Company

Low Density Residential


2,000 g.p.m. from three adjacent hydrants flowing simultaneously
1-1/2 miles

High Density Residential and Commercial Neighborhood


4,000 g.p.m. from four adjacent hydrants flowing simultaneously
1-1/2 miles

PROPOSED TABLE 9-C

(CONT.)
Commercial
*** Housing an Engine Company and Truck Company

Engine Company
Truck Company

Industrial and Commercial


6,000 to 9,000 g.p.m. from four hydrants flowing simultaneously
1 mile
1-1/2 miles

High Density Industrial and Commercial or Industrial (Principal Business Districts or


Centers)
12,000 g.p.m. available to any block (where local conditions indicate that
consideration must be given to simultaneous fires, an additional 2,000 to 8,000 g.p.m.
will be required)
3/4 mile
1 mile

* 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.

SEC. 57.09.07. RESPONSE DISTANCES THAT IF EXCEEDED REQUIRE THE


INSTALLATION OF AN AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,414, Eff. 2/21/99.)

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.

SEC. 57.09.08. SUPPLEMENTAL FIRE PROTECTION.

(Former Sec. 57.09.07 Renumbered by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

B. Supplemental fire protection equipment or systems shall consist of:

1. Fire protective signaling systems which shall be installed in accordance with


Division 122 of this article.

2. Fire hydrants which shall be installed in accordance with section 57.09.06 of this
division, or as required by the Chief.

3. Automatic fire extinguishing systems which shall be installed in accordance with,


but not limited to, L.A.F.D. Standard Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 55, and 59.

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).

6. Systems or equipment not specified: The installation, arrangement of, or


alteration thereto, of other fire protection equipment or systems which are deemed
necessary to provide minimum fire protection as may be required by the Chief.

SEC. 57.09.09. ACCESS BOX.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

When access to or within a structure or premises is unduly difficult because of secured


openings or where immediate access is necessary for lifesaving or fire fighting purposes,
the Chief has the authority to order the owner or person having control of the structure or
premises to install an access box in an approved location accessible to the Fire
Department. The access box shall be of a type approved by the Chief and shall contain
all keys, access cards, buttons, switches, locks, and actuators determined by the Chief to
be necessary for access. No person shall violate an order of the Chief.

SEC. 57.09.10. NOTIFICATION.

(Former Sec. 57.09.09 Renumbered by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.09.11. PROPERTY ADDRESSES.

(Added by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

A. Every person exercising or having ownership, possession, custody, control, or


charge of any building, structure, parking lot, or premises shall have and maintain the
established street address number thereon upon or near each entrance from a public street
and from any other access way. The Chief shall have the authority to prescribe the
manner and location of placement of such street address numbers. “Access way,” shall
include, but not be limited to any alley, waterway, stairway, driveway, or walkway.

B. The minimum dimensions of any street address number established on or after


June 1, 1973 shall be as follows:

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

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

Section

57.10.01 Scope.

57.10.02 Definitions.

57.10.03 Inspections.

57.10.04 Permits Required.

57.10.05 Fees.

57.10.06 Notification and Maintenance of Information.

57.10.07 Fire Retardant / Non Combustible Materials.

57.10.08 Exits.

57.10.09 Allowable Locations.

57.10.10 Signage.

57.10.11 Extinguishers.

57.10.12 Fire Suppression Systems.

57.10.13 Fire Detection and Signaling Systems.

57.10.14 Communications.

57.10.15 Emergency Protective Equipment.

57.10.16 Viewing Ports.

57.10.17 Emergency Shutdown of Negative Air Equipment.

57.10.18 Rubbish and Debris.

57.10.19 Respray of Fire Protective Coatings.

57.10.20 Fire Safety Coordinator.


57.10.21 Fire Safety Watch.

57.10.22 Smoking.

SEC. 57.10.01. SCOPE.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

SEC. 57.10.02. DEFINITIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

Asbestos Abatement - Removal of any asbestos containing material.

Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) - Any material containing .1 percent or more


dry weight asbestos.

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.

Contractor - The licensed contractor performing the asbestos abatement.

Job Start - The abatement job begins with the taping of critical barriers.

HEPA Filter - High Efficiency Particulate Air Filters.

Negative Air Machine - A filtering machine whose primary purpose is to maintain a


negative atmosphere in the containment area during the asbestos abatement process.

Respray - Reapplication of an approved fire protective coating.

SCAQMD - South Coast Air Quality Management District.

VAT - Vinyl Asbestos Floor Tile.

SEC. 57.10.03. INSPECTIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)


The Fire Department and Department of Building and Safety will, at their discretion,
inspect the work sites for compliance with the requirements contained in this division.
All approvals are subject to field inspection.

SEC. 57.10.04. PERMITS REQUIRED.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

A. A Fire Department Division 5 Permit is required to conduct any asbestos


removal which reduces the fire resistiveness of any building, or results in the removal of
100 square feet or more of Asbestos Containing Material (ACM). Residential dwelling
structures of four units or less shall be exempt. For the purpose of this regulation, ACM
which is expressed in linear feet shall be computed and reported as a total equivalent
surface area in square feet.

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.

The following shall be included in the drawing:

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.

3. Location of each negative air machine shall be indicated.

4. Location of the negative air machine emergency shut-off switch shall be shown.

5. Location of emergency Fire Department protective entry clothing shall be shown.

F. Permits for asbestos abatement shall be obtained at the Engineering counter of


the Bureau of Fire Prevention and Public Safety at least ten-calendar days prior to the
beginning of the job.
SEC. 57.10.05. FEES.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.)

SEC. 57.10.06. NOTIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE OF INFORMATION.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

C. Plans described in Section 57.10.04E shall be kept by the contractor in a clearly


identified three-ring loose-leaf binder located in the building’s Fire Control Room, at the
building’s staffed security desk if no Fire Control Room exists, or if neither of these
locations exists, at a location approved by the Fire Department.
D. The loose leaf binder shall be updated daily and used exclusively to provide the
Fire Department with accurate emergency information. The binder shall also contain an
introduction page stating:

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.

3. Regular working days and working hours.

4. Job site and phone number.

SEC. 57.10.07. FIRE RETARDANT / NON COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

SEC. 57.10.08. EXITS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

C. At no time shall the asbestos abatement process involve, block, impede, or


obstruct any stairwell in a multistory building. Any asbestos abatement plan involving
any stairwell must be approved by the field inspector before commencing work on that
stairwell.

D. At least one stairwell door shall open into a noncontaminated area of a floor
under containment, regardless of the size of containment.

SEC. 57.10.09. ALLOWABLE LOCATIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

A. In multistory buildings where more than 25 percent of the floor area is


undergoing abatement, or under demolition in preparation for abatement, the following
shall apply:

1. Asbestos abatement is permitted on a floor-by-floor basis, provided that no two


consecutive floors are undergoing active abatement simultaneously. A maximum of
every other floor, up to a total of three floors out of five, is permitted.

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.

B. In single-story buildings, a maximum of 50 percent of the total floor space may


be under active abatement at any one time. Required legal exiting shall be maintained.

C. Unoccupied buildings may be allowed greater latitude during the abatement


process. Any variance from the provisions of this section will be considered on a case-
by-case basis.

SEC. 57.10.10. SIGNAGE.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

3. An additional set of signs as described in both Subsections A1 and A2 shall be


placed on each landing in each stairwell which leads to any floors undergoing abatement:

a. Beginning two floors below the affected floor.

b. On the floor above the affected floor.

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.

SEC. 57.10.11. EXTINGUISHERS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

A minimum of one 4A/60BC dry chemical extinguisher shall be maintained at each of


the following locations:

A. At each electrical panel.

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.

E. The maximum distance of travel to an extinguisher shall be no greater than 75


feet.

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.

SEC. 57.10.12. FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

A. All Fire Department connections and standpipes shall remain active,


unobstructed, and clearly marked.

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.

SEC. 57.10.13. FIRE DETECTION AND SIGNALING SYSTEMS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

SEC. 57.10.14. COMMUNICATIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

A. A minimum of one telephone shall be provided for contacting emergency


personnel in containment areas greater than 1,000 square feet. The telephone shall be
located in the clean room adjacent to the exit from the decontamination area.
B. If it is not practical to install a phone in the clean room, a telephone on the same
floor or level is acceptable provided that there are no doors between the telephone and
the clean room that have any type of locking mechanism on them or impede access to the
phone in any manner. This phone shall not be more than 100 lineal feet along the path of
travel from the clean room.

C. In lieu of a telephone in the clean room, radio communications may be provided


with personnel who have immediate access to a telephone. Radios shall be located as
described in Subsection A above. A complete set of charged spare radio batteries shall be
provided.

D. All alternate means of communication other than a telephone are subject to field
inspector approval.

SEC. 57.10.15. EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

SEC. 57.10.16. VIEWING PORTS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

SEC. 57.10.17. EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN OF NEGATIVE AIR EQUIPMENT.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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:

1. Shall be for emergency use by Fire Department personnel.


2. Shall be located in a non contaminated area near the exit from the
decontamination station and shall be clearly identified using a sign with minimum 3"
high x 1/2" wide lettering on a contrasting background. The sign shall read “NEGATIVE
AIR MASTER SHUT-OFF.”

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.

SEC. 57.10.18. RUBBISH AND DEBRIS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

SEC. 57.10.19. RESPRAY OF FIRE PROTECTIVE COATINGS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

A. Respray of fire protective coatings shall be completed within 15 days after


receipt of the final air-monitoring clearance. All areas where fire protective coatings
have been removed, including areas that have been cored or spot abated to facilitate the
placement of pipe hangers, etc., shall be returned to the degree of fire resistiveness as
prescribed by the Department of Building and Safety.

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.

SEC. 57.10.20. FIRE SAFETY COORDINATOR.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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:

A. Educating on-site personnel in general safety procedures.

B. Insuring that on-site personnel are aware of the location and proper use of all
extinguishers and other fire and life safety equipment.

SEC. 57.10.21. FIRE SAFETY WATCH.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)


Where the abatement project is 1,000 square feet or more, or whenever any of the fire
protective coating of the building’s structural members is removed, the following shall
apply:

A. A person shall be selected by the contractor to function as a Fire Watch. The


Fire Watch may perform only duties which are specifically related to the security and
fire safety of the overall work area.

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.

b. The name and title of the assigned Fire Watch.

c. The area assigned to each Fire Watch.

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.

D. In the absence of a functioning, approved automatic fire detection system


connected to the building’s Central Alarm System in the area undergoing abatement or
respray, a Fire Watch shall be maintained on a 24-hour basis. For this purpose, elevator
smoke detectors shall not be considered an approved fire detection system.

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.

F. In abatement areas protected by a functioning, approved automatic fire detection


system connected to the building’s Central Alarm System, the Fire Watch may be
discontinued 30 minutes after the completion of each work day under the following
conditions:

1. The building’s Central Alarm System must be monitored on a 24-hour basis


either by building security personnel or by an alarm company at a remote location.

2. No structure, separation, or barriers set up for containment or other purposes


shall impede the proper operation of any detection device or limit the intended area the
device was installed to monitor.

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.

SEC. 57.10.22. SMOKING.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,176, Eff. 9/20/92.)

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.

57.11.02 General Approval Required.

57.11.03 Tests.

57.11.04 Applicators.

57.11.05 Public Guarantee.

SEC. 57.11.01. SCOPE.

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).

SEC. 57.11.02. GENERAL APPROVAL REQUIRED.

A. No person shall, without a valid General Approval granted and in effect as


required by Section 57.05.10 of this article, sell, offer for sale, or advertise any chemical
formulation, paint, coating, or other finish which purports to reduce surface flame spread
rate or to reduce or eliminate combustible characteristics of furnishings or structures.

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.

SEC. 57.11.03. TESTS.

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.

SEC. 57.11.04. APPLICATORS.


A. No person shall apply fire retardant coatings unless such person is certified to the
Department by the manufacturer of such coating as being fully qualified to make such
applications in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

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.

SEC. 57.11.05. PUBLIC GUARANTEE.

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.

57.12.03 Storage on Roofs.

57.12.04 Passageways on Roofs.

SEC. 57.12.01. SCOPE.

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).

SEC. 57.12.02. OBSTRUCTIONS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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.

3. Metal bars, grills, grates, or similar products manufactured to restrict entry


through windows or exterior doors may be installed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

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.

SEC. 57.12.03. STORAGE ON ROOFS.

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.

SEC. 57.12.04. PASSAGEWAYS ON ROOFS.

No person shall obstruct required access passageways on the roof surface. An


unobstructed passageway for use by the Fire Department shall be provided through or
around any approved structures or equipment installations on the roof surface. One access
passageway shall be provided for every 50-feet length or fraction thereof of roof surface.
Passageways shall be at least three feet wide and have at least seven feet of overhead
clearance.
DIVISION 13
FIRE WATCH

Section

57.13.01 Scope.

57.13.02 Definition.

57.13.03 Authority to Require Fire Watch.

57.13.04 Responsibility for Instruction.

57.13.05 Log Book.

57.13.06 Specific Duty Requirements.

SEC. 57.13.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.13.02. DEFINITION.

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.

SEC. 57.13.03. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE FIRE WATCH.

A. The Chief may require implementation of a fire watch whenever it is deemed


necessary by the Chief to assure minimum fire/life safety as regulated by this article. The
Chief shall specify the number of fire watch personnel and duties to be performed.

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.

SEC. 57.13.04. RESPONSIBILITY FOR INSTRUCTION.

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:

1. The procedure for notifying the Fire Department.

2. The area to be patrolled.

3. A method of alerting building occupants and an evacuation procedure. Note:


When two or more fire watch personnel are required, two-way radios may be required by
the Fire Department to facilitate communication and evacuation.

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.

SEC. 57.13.05. LOG BOOK.

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.

SEC. 57.13.06. SPECIFIC DUTY REQUIREMENTS.

Assigned fire watch personnel shall:

A. Be thoroughly familiar with the area they are patrolling.

B. Perform patrol operations according to instructions from management.

C. Patrol their designated area at least once each half hour.

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.

F. Remain on duty until properly relieved.


DIVISION 14
UNIFIED PROGRAM FACILITY PERMIT

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

Section

57.14.01 Scope.

57.14.02 Definitions.

57.14.03 Permit Required.

57.14.04 Application for Permits.

57.14.05 Permits - Investigation and Procedures for Granting - Power to Deny.

57.14.06 Permits - Form.

57.14.07 Permits - Posting and Keeping.

57.14.08 Permits - Transfer.

57.14.09 Permits - Validity.

57.14.10 Unified Program Facility Permit Schedule of Fees.

SEC. 57.14.01. SCOPE.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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:

1. Hazardous Waste Generators and Hazardous Waste Onsite Treatment Programs -


Hazardous Waste Generator and Onsite Tiered Permitting activities authorized under the
permit-by-rule, conditionally authorized, and conditionally exempt tiers pursuant to
Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.5 (generally supplemented by Division
4.5, Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations).

2. Above Ground Storage Tanks Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure


Plan - The requirement of the Health and Safety Code Subdivision (c) of Section 25270.5
for owners and operators of aboveground storage tanks to prepare a spill prevention
control and countermeasure plan.

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.

4. Hazardous Materials Release Response Plan and Inventory Program - The


requirements of Article 1 (commencing with Section 25501) of the Health and Safety
Code Division 20, Chapter 6.95 concerning hazardous material release response plans
and inventories and any requirements of Division 8 of this Code.

5. California Accidental Release Prevention Program - The requirements of Article


2 (commencing with Section 25531) of the Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter
6.95, concerning hazardous materials management and the requirements of Chapter 4.5 of
Division 2 of Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations.

SEC. 57.14.02. DEFINITIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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).

Authorization - An acknowledgment of compliance for an individual Unified Program


element.

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.

California Accidental Release Prevention Program (CalARP) - Includes the


requirements of Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.95, Article 2.

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.

Hazardous Materials Release Response Plan (HMRRP) and Inventory Program -


Includes the requirements of Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.95, Article 1
(generally supplemented by Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, Sections 2620
- 2732), and any requirements of Division 8 of this Code.

Hazardous Waste Generators and Hazardous Waste Onsite Treatment Programs -


Includes the Hazardous Waste Generator (GEN) Program, and the Onsite Tiered
Permitting activities authorized under the permit-by-rule (PBR), conditionally authorized
(CA), and conditionally exempt (CE) tiers - Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter
6.5 (generally supplemented by Division 4.5, Title 22 of the California Code of
Regulations).

Participating Agency or PA - An agency which has a written agreement with the


CUPA pursuant to the Health and Safety Code, Subdivision (d) of Section 25404.3, and
is approved by the secretary, to implement or enforce one or more of the unified program
elements specified in Subdivision (c), in accordance with the provisions of Health and
Safety Code Sections 25404.1 and 25404.2.

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.

SEC. 57.14.03. PERMIT REQUIRED.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

No person shall operate or maintain a new or existing Unified Program Facility


without having obtained an annually renewable Unified Program Facility Permit with the
appropriate authorization for each applicable unified program element pursuant to this
division, or other authorized Permit.

SEC. 57.14.04. APPLICATION FOR PERMITS.


(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.14.05. PERMITS - INVESTIGATION AND PROCEDURES FOR


GRANTING - POWER TO DENY.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Investigation and Procedure for Granting:

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.

SEC. 57.14.06. PERMITS - FORM.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

Each Permit shall be issued in accordance with the provisions of this division and
shall set forth upon the face thereof the following:

A. The name of the person to whom issued.

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.

C. The signature of the Chief printed thereon.

D. The date of expiration of the Permit and the date upon which the annual Permit
fee shall be due and payable.

E. A list of the unified program elements authorized at the facility.

SEC. 57.14.07. PERMITS - POSTING AND KEEPING.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

Posting and Keeping.

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.

SEC. 57.14.08. PERMITS - TRANSFER.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Transfer of Permit – No Permit shall be transferable except when the business,


operation, occupation, or premises for which the Permit is issued, is transferred, whether
by sale or otherwise, to another person under such circumstances that the ownership after
the transfer is substantially similar to the ownership existing before the transfer.
B. Change of Location – Any change of location for a business, operation,
occupation, or premises shall require filing of a new application and payment of the
applicable fee(s) set forth in Section 57.14.10 of this article.

SEC. 57.14.09. PERMITS - VALIDITY.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.14.10. UNIFIED PROGRAM FACILITY PERMIT SCHEDULE OF FEES.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

C. The procedure to establish and amend the Schedule of Fees is as follows:

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:

1. Hazardous Waste Generators and Hazardous Waste Onsite Treatment Activities.


The fees for the Hazardous Waste Generators and Hazardous Waste Onsite Treatment
Activities program element will be established by the Los Angeles County Fire
Department Health Hazardous Materials Division, and reviewed and approved by the Los
Angeles County Board of Supervisors, for the inspection and enforcement activities
associated with that program element. The Los Angeles County Fire Department is a
Participating Agency to the City of Los Angeles Fire Department for the inspection and
enforcement activities associated with this program element. An additional administrative
charge may be applied by the Department for oversight activities relative to this program
element.

2. Underground Storage Tanks. In addition to the establishment of an annual


Permit fee for each underground storage tank and the administration of Division 31 of
this Code commencing with Section 57.31.30, an hourly rate shall be established for the
plan check and inspection activities associated with the installation, modification,
abandonment, and site mitigation of underground storage tanks and facilities.

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:

(i) one to three hazardous substances,

(ii) four to seven hazardous substances,

(iii) eight or more hazardous substances,

a fee shall be charged as specified in the schedule of fees.

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.

c. Physicians, dentists, podiatrists, veterinarians or pharmacists who maintain


oxygen or nitrous oxide at their office or place of business in quantities of not more than
1,000 cubic feet of each substance at any one time shall be exempt from fee calculations
with respect to such substances.

4. California Accidental Release Prevention Program. The fees charged to recover


City costs in connection with the administration of the California Accidental Release
Prevention Program, shall include an annual administrative fee, a risk factor fee, and an
hourly inspection and review fee to be charged as the service is provided.

5. Service Charges. Additional State service charges for individual program


elements as established by the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection
Agency shall be collected from unified program facilities and forwarded to the State.
DIVISION 15
[CONSTRUCTION AND PLAN CHECK INSPECTION SERVICES]

(Added by Ord. No. 176,075, Eff. 8/10/04.)

Section

57.15.01 Scope.

57.15.02 Definitions.

57.15.03 Fees.

57.15.04 Annual Review.

SEC. 57.15.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.15.02. DEFINITIONS.

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.

C. Expedite. A request by a contractor or other person to the Department to


complete Plan Check, review and inspection at the earliest possible time. It may include
a request for Department personnel to work overtime to complete a field inspection.

SEC. 57.15.03. FEES.

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.

Inspection and Fire Code Review Fee


$121.00 per hour, one hour minimum.

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.

SEC. 57.15.04. ANNUAL REVIEW.

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

57.20.01 General Duties of Persons.

57.20.02 Discarding Flaming or Glowing Objects.

57.20.03 Open Flame.

57.20.04 Disposal of Ashes, Cinders, and Coals.

57.20.05 Exhaust Protection for Internal Combustion Engines.

57.20.06 Fire Hydrants and Other Fire Protection Equipment.

57.20.07 Protection from Vehicular Damage.

57.20.08 Hearings to Be Held in Connection with Construction of Fireroads.

57.20.09 Obstructions on Fire Roads and Firebreaks.

57.20.10 Tampering with Established Locks or Barriers.

57.20.11 Hazardous Sweepings.

57.20.12 Vacant Buildings.

57.20.13 Motion Picture Locations – Television Remotes.

57.20.15 Fire Protection Equipment.

57.20.16 General Provisions for Correction of Hazardous Conditions.

57.20.17 Fires Due to Carelessness or Negligence.

57.20.18 Heating and Lighting Equipment.

57.20.19 Outdoor Burning Requirements.

57.20.20 Outdoor Burning Devices.

57.20.21 Location of Outdoor Burning Devices.

57.20.22 Prohibited Burning.


57.20.23 Attendance at Outdoor Fires.

57.20.24 Exercise of Caution with Fire.

57.20.25 Protection for Outdoor Burners.

57.20.26 Heating Appliances.

57.20.28 Portable Heaters.

57.20.29 Flexible Tubing.

57.20.30 Exhaust Systems for Cooking Equipment.

57.20.31 Forges.

57.20.32 Glue Pots.

57.20.33 Paint Burning Torches.

57.20.34 Sweating Pipes.

57.20.35 Welding and Cutting.

57.20.36 Maintenance of Materials.

57.20.37 Electrical Extension Cords.

57.20.38 Novelties.

57.20.39 Stoves, Torches, and Fire Pots.

57.20.40 Flame Throwers.

57.20.41 Fire Assembly.

SEC. 57.20.01. GENERAL DUTIES OF PERSONS.

A. No person shall permit any fire to spread so as to endanger the person or


property of another; or use or operate a welding torch, tar pot, internal combustion
engine, or any other device which may cause a fire unless proper removal of flammable
material surrounding the operation is accomplished or such other reasonable precautions
are taken which are necessary to insure against the starting and spreading of fires.
B. Whenever a fire occurs in any building, or on any premises, vessel, or aircraft, or
in any vehicle, apparatus, process, or equipment, it shall be the duty of the owner,
manager, operator, or person in control, upon notification or discovery of such fire and/or
smoke to immediately notify the Department and furnish all required information relative
to the incident This requirement shall not be construed to forbid the owner, manager,
operator, or person in control of the building, premises, vessel, aircraft, vehicle,
apparatus, process, or equipment from using all diligence necessary to extinguish such
fire prior to the arrival of the Department.

C. Any person upon discovering evidence of spontaneous heating or other abnormal


heating of any merchandise, commodity, cargo, shipment, or other material of any kind in
any building, vessel, aircraft, vehicle, appliance, apparatus, tank, or open stack or pile, or
any person upon discovering or being apprised of an uncontrolled hazardous gas leak or
hazardous material or substance spill shall immediately notify the Department.

D. No person owning, operating, or having charge or control of any device,


appliance, apparatus, equipment, tank, vehicle, vessel, aircraft, building, structure,
business, premises or other place or thing shall:

1. Release or transfer any flammable liquid, combustible liquid, liquefied


flammable gas, or any other hazardous material or substance in such a manner as to give
rise to a fire, explosion, panic, or other hazardous condition.

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

E. When the transfer of any flammable liquid, combustible liquid, liquefied


flammable gas, or any other hazardous material or substance is deemed necessary by the
Department to safeguard life and property from fire, explosion, panic, or other hazardous
condition, the transfer shall be performed under Special Permit obtained from the
Department.

F. Whenever alarm signals initiated by manual pull stations, smoke or heat


detectors, automatic fire extinguishing systems, or other fire protection systems are
transmitted to any location on or off the premises, they shall be treated as a fire alarm and
the owner, operator, or person in charge or control of the building or premises shall
immediately relay the alarm signal to the Fire Department.

SEC. 57.20.02. DISCARDING FLAMING OR GLOWING OBJECTS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.03. OPEN FLAME.


A. No open flame or flame-producing device shall be located, maintained, or used
in any hazardous atmosphere unless specifically approved by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.20.04. DISPOSAL OF ASHES, CINDERS, AND COALS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.05. EXHAUST PROTECTION FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION


ENGINES.

A. No person shall use or operate an internal combustion engine on or near grain,


hay, grass, or brush-covered land, or where flammable fibers are stored, manufactured, or
processed, unless the engine is equipped with an approved spark arrester that complies
with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 62.

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

SEC. 57.20.06. FIRE HYDRANTS AND OTHER FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT.

A. No person shall erect, construct, maintain, or build, or cause to be erected,


constructed, or built, any structure, screen, or fence in such a location as to prohibit or
restrict the ready operation and use of any fire hydrant, fire department connection to
sprinkler system, exterior or combination standpipe system, or other installed fire
protection equipment, nor plant or allow the growth of any vegetation which will hide or
obscure said installed fire protection equipment.

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.

SEC. 57.20.07. PROTECTION FROM VEHICULAR DAMAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.20.08. HEARINGS TO BE HELD IN CONNECTION WITH


CONSTRUCTION OF FIREROADS.

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.

B. Prior to the performance of any work of construction or widening of fire roads,


firebreaks, and fuelbreaks, the Board shall hold a public hearing on the plans therefor.

1. Notice of the time, place, and purpose of a public hearing shall be given in the
following manner:

a. By at least one publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the City,


designated for the purpose of the City Clerk, not less than 10 days prior to the date of the
hearing.

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.

SEC. 57.20.09. OBSTRUCTIONS ON FIRE ROADS AND FIREBREAKS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.10. TAMPERING WITH ESTABLISHED LOCKS OR BARRIERS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.11. HAZARDOUS SWEEPINGS.

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:

The use of sawdust as a sweeping compound is permissible when it is applied,


immediately swept up, and properly disposed of in an approved manner.

SEC. 57.20.12. VACANT BUILDINGS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.13. MOTION PICTURE LOCATIONS – TELEVISION REMOTES.

No person shall operate any television broadcasting, videotaping equipment, or


motion picture photographic equipment for commercial or professional purposes, or
commercial still-photographic equipment outside of an approved studio unless notice of
such operation shall have been given to the Fire Department at least 24 hours prior to the
commencement of such operation. Spontaneous news coverage activities are exempt
from this provision.

SEC. 57.20.15. FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT.

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.

SEC. 57.20.16. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR CORRECTION OF HAZARDOUS


CONDITIONS.

No person owning or having charge or control of any device, appliance, apparatus,


equipment, tank, vehicle, vessel, building, structure, business, or premises which is in
such condition as to cause a fire, explosion or life hazard, shall after having been notified
in writing by the Chief that he or she must forthwith eliminate or remedy such condition
or make changes, alterations, or repairs as may be necessary to render the same safe and
to eliminate such dangerous condition of fire, explosion or life hazard, maintain or use
any such device, appliance, apparatus, equipment, tank, vehicle, vessel, building,
structure, business or premises until he has complied with the terms of such notice.
Notice that a building, structure, or premises is closed to entry by reason of any fire,
explosion or fire hazard may be posted thereon by the Chief. When so posted, and so long
as the hazardous condition exists, no person shall enter, occupy, or use such building,
structure, or premises except under Special Permit from the Chief.

SEC. 57.20.17. FIRES DUE TO CARELESSNESS OR NEGLIGENCE.

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.

B. Any person who, in any residential or institutional occupancy, by any means


whatsoever, through carelessness or negligence, sets fire to or causes the burning of any
bedding, furniture, rug, curtain, drape, or other house or household furnishings or fittings
or any part of such residential or institutional occupancy, in such manner as to endanger
the safety of any person or property, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

C. The owner, manager, or person in control of each residential or institutional


occupancy shall post or cause to be posted conspicuously in the lobby of each
establishment a printed notice with the wording “FIRE REGULATIONS” in not less than
14 point bold face type, and the text of Subsection B of this section in not less than 12
point bold face type, and shall also post such notice, or cause such notice to be posted, in
each unit of occupancy within such establishment designed or intended for the use of, or
used by transients, and at such other locations as may be directed by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.20.18. HEATING AND LIGHTING EQUIPMENT.

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.

B. No heating or lighting apparatus or equipment capable of igniting flammable


materials of the types stored or handled shall be used in the storage areas of any
warehouse storing rags, cotton, hay, excelsior, hair, or other flammable or combustible
material; or in the work areas of any shop or factory used for the manufacture, repair or
renovating of mattresses or bedding; or in the work areas of any establishment used for
the upholstering of furniture.

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.

SEC. 57.20.19. OUTDOOR BURNING REQUIREMENTS.

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:

1. The instruction of public employees in the methods of fighting fires.

2. On property used for industrial purposes for the instruction of employees in


methods of fire fighting.

3. For public gatherings under legitimate sponsorship of civic, fraternal, religious,


or other similar organizations.

4. For cooking in or upon the ground.

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:

1. The Air Pollution Control District forecasts that:

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.

SEC. 57.20.20. OUTDOOR BURNING DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.20.21. LOCATION OF OUTDOOR BURNING DEVICES.

The location of every permanently installed outdoor burning device which is a


separate structure to be used for cooking, decoration, or entertainment, and within 10 feet
of a building shall be approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.20.22. PROHIBITED BURNING.

A. The burning of material in any incinerator or other refuse-burning device which


has not been approved by the Air Pollution Control District is prohibited.

B. No barbeque device or similar outdoor heating or cooking device or installation


shall be used for disposal of hazardous refuse.

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.

SEC. 57.20.23. ATTENDANCE AT OUTDOOR FIRES.

Every outdoor fire shall be constantly attended and controlled by a competent person
or persons until such fire is entirely extinguished.

SEC. 57.20.24. EXERCISE OF CAUTION WITH FIRE.

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.

SEC. 57.20.25. PROTECTION FOR OUTDOOR BURNERS.

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.

C. Location: The location of every incinerator which is an independent structure


shall be approved by the Chief.
D. Distance Required: Every incinerator, exterior fireplace, or barbecue device
shall be installed and maintained in excess of 25 feet from any fill pipe, dispensing
apparatus, or transfer apparatus used in connection with any tank containing Class I, II, or
IIIA liquids, or any place where Class I, II, or IIIA liquids are dispensed, transferred, or
handled.

SEC. 57.20.26. HEATING APPLIANCES.

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.

B. Guarding: Every space heating appliance located in any institutional or


assembly occupancy, or place where the public is admitted shall have exposed surfaces
sufficiently insulated or shielded to prevent the outside surface or shield temperature
from exceeding 160° F.

SEC. 57.20.28. PORTABLE HEATERS.

Portable type space heaters shall be installed and maintained in such a manner as to
prevent their accidentally being overturned.

SEC. 57.20.29. FLEXIBLE TUBING.

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. 57.20.30. EXHAUST SYSTEMS FOR COOKING EQUIPMENT.

Ventilation of restaurant type cooking equipment shall be designed, constructed,


installed, and maintained in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Heating,
Ventilating and Air Conditioning). Such systems shall be equipped with approved
automatic fire extinguishing systems in accordance with the provisions of Division 141 of
this article. Hoods, ducts, and fan housings shall be cleaned at sufficient intervals to
prevent the accumulation of grease therein.

SEC. 57.20.31. FORGES.

(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. 57.20.32. GLUE POTS.

(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.

B. Electrically Heated: In addition to the requirements set forth in Subsection A of


this section, electrically heated glue pots shall be equipped with an approved electric pilot
lamp to indicate when the heating element is turned on.

SEC. 57.20.33. PAINT BURNING TORCHES.

(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.

SEC. 57.20.34. SWEATING PIPES.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

In addition to all provisions of 57.20.33, when sweating pipes, combustible material in


close proximity to the open flame shall be protected against ignition by shielding,
wetting, or other means.

SEC. 57.20.35. WELDING AND CUTTING.

A. Minimum fire safety requirements, in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No.


51, shall be maintained wherever welding and cutting operations are in progress.

B. Requirements for fire safety concerning Gas Systems for Welding and Cutting
shall be in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 50.

SEC. 57.20.36. MAINTENANCE OF MATERIALS.


No person owning or having control of any building or premises, shall store, keep,
maintain, or allow to remain, any debris, including debris generated as the result of a fire,
hazardous refuse, or hazardous material, in such a manner as to cause a fire hazard.

SEC. 57.20.37. ELECTRICAL EXTENSION CORDS.

A. No person shall use extension cords as a substitute for permanent wiring.

B. No person shall use extension cords other than with portable appliances or
fixtures.

C. No person shall use extension cords when cords are:

1. Spliced or extended so as to exceed their original length.

2. Extended from one room to another.

3. Stapled, nailed, or otherwise fastened to walls, floors, or ceilings.

4. Placed under rugs.

5. Used to supply more electrical current than the cords intended rating.

6. Frayed, deteriorated, damaged, or have exposed wire.

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.

SEC. 57.20.38. NOVELTIES.

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.

SEC. 57.20.39. STOVES, TORCHES, AND FIRE POTS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.40. FLAME THROWERS.

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.

SEC. 57.20.41. FIRE ASSEMBLY.

A. No person shall wedge, block, obstruct, or otherwise cause or allow the


impairment of the operation of a fire assembly.

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.

57.21.05 Materials Subject to Spontaneous Heating.

57.21.06 Storing and Disposing Prohibitions.

57.21.07 Hazardous Vegetation.

57.21.08 Additional Authority to Recover Costs.

SEC. 57.21.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division shall set forth the minimum fire safety requirements for
the storage and disposal of hazardous refuse and hazardous vegetation.

SEC. 57.21.03. HOUSEKEEPING.

A. Hazardous refuse received from outside sources or generated as a result of a


process or activity shall be removed from the working area and safely stored or otherwise
safely processed as often as necessary to prevent a fire hazard.

B. Hazardous refuse shall be properly stored or disposed of at the end of each


working day and before vacating a building or premises and whenever necessary to
prevent unsafe accumulations.

C. No person owning or having charge or control of any premises shall allow


hazardous refuse to drift, blow, or otherwise be dispersed into or onto adjoining property
or public ways.

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.

SEC. 57.21.04. STORAGE.

A. Hazardous refuse shall be stored as follows:


1. In approved noncombustible containers or bins equipped with tightly fitting
cover.

2. In approved noncombustible outdoor storage bins located a minimum of 10 feet


from any building or building opening.

EXCEPTION:

Approved noncombustible storage bins may be located adjacent to a minimum one-


hour wall and a minimum of 10 feet from any building opening.

3. In rubbish rooms constructed in compliance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.


Building Code. Rubbish rooms shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.

4. In isolated areas acceptable to the Chief.

B. Every industrial, commercial, residential, institutional, educational, and


assembly occupancy shall provide a specifically designated room or area, in or on the
premises, where approved hazardous refuse storage facilities are maintained awaiting
disposal, removal, or approved processing.

SEC. 57.21.05. MATERIALS SUBJECT TO SPONTANEOUS HEATING.

Hazardous refuse subject to ignition by spontaneous heating shall be stored separately


from all other materials in approved noncombustible containers used exclusively for such
storage, or secured in a manner approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.21.06. STORING AND DISPOSING PROHIBITIONS.

A. The storing or disposing of hazardous refuse on any public street, alley,


sidewalk, parkway, park recreation area, easement, firebreak, fire road, walkway, or
freeway, except in those authorized areas, bins, or containers posted or marked for such
use, is prohibited.

B. The storing or disposing of hazardous refuse on any parcel of land or premises


which is not owned, rented, leased, or otherwise legally controlled by the person, party,
or firm responsible for the storing or disposing, is prohibited.

C. The dumping, disposing, or littering of hazardous refuse onto any premises,


except an authorized Waste Material Processing Plant, licensed Public Dump, or Sanitary
Fill, is prohibited.

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.

F. The use of combustible containers to receive hazardous refuse from rubbish


chutes in lieu of rubbish rooms is prohibited.

G. Nothing in this section shall be deemed to waive any of the requirements in


Chapter 6 of the L.A.M.C. Public Works and Property Code, or regulation of the
Department of Public Works which regulates the hours of the day in which garbage
receptacles are permitted on public streets.

SEC. 57.21.07. HAZARDOUS VEGETATION.*

A. General:

1. Prohibition. No person who has any ownership or possessory interest in, or


control of a parcel of land shall allow to exist thereon any hazardous refuse or hazardous
weeds, trees, or other vegetation, which, by reason of proximity to a building or structure,
constitutes a fire hazard. For purposes of this Section hazardous weeds, trees, or other
vegetation are defined as weeds, trees, or other vegetation which are in such condition
and location as to provide a ready fuel supply to augment the spread or intensity of a fire.

2. Specific Requirements. (Amended by Ord. No. 171,551, Eff. 5/10/97.) Each


person who has any ownership or possessory interest in, or control of, a parcel of land
shall:

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.

C. (Subsec. B Redesignated C by Ord. No. 172,354, Eff. 1/30/99.) The Council


finds that uncontrolled or high weeds, brush, plant material or other items prohibited
under Subsection A of this section increase the danger of fire and thus constitute a public
nuisance. If such condition exists, the Los Angeles Fire Department shall give notice to
the owner of record to abate the nuisance within 15 days. The notice shall be either
posted on the parcel or mailed to the owner or both.

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:

1. A nuisance, as identified in the notice, has been abated on the property;


2. A bill setting forth the cost of abatement has been mailed to the owner and a copy
of the report setting forth the cost of abatement will be available for inspection at a
specified location;

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;

6. Any written objections to the proposed assessment, and/or requests for an


alternate hearing date submitted to the hearing examiner must identify therein the parcel
of property proposed to be assessed. The notice, or copy thereof, may, but need not, be
used for that purpose and in the event the hearing examiner agrees to an alternate time or
date for the owner’s appearance, the Department will notify the owner as to that alternate
time and/or date; and that

7. Written objections to the proposed assessment may be submitted to the hearing


examiner but must be submitted prior to the commencement of the scheduled hearing.

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.

D. (Subsec. C. Redesignated D. by Ord. No. 172,354, Eff. 1/30/99.) The cost of


removal, or other elimination or abatement of a nuisance from in front of or on a parcel of
land shall constitute a special assessment against that parcel. After an assessment is made
and confirmed by the City Council pursuant to Subsection B of this section, a lien shall
attach to the parcel upon recordation in the office of the County Recorder of a copy of the
order confirming the assessment. The connection of such assessment and enforcement of
the lien shall be in the manner provided in Sections 39578 through 39588 of the
Government Code, incorporated herein by reference as set forth on the effective date of
this section or as said provisions may be amended or otherwise appear in the law.

E. (Subsec. D. Redesignated E. by Ord. No. 172,354, Eff. 1/30/99.) As an


alternative method for the collection of the cost of abatement the City may maintain an
action of law thereof against the owner of the premises upon which the nuisance was
maintained in any court of competent jurisdiction. Such cost shall be deemed a personal
obligation of such owner.

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.

SEC. 57.21.08. ADDITIONAL AUTHORITY TO RECOVER COSTS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 175,596, Eff. 12/7/03.)

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

57.22.01 General Use of Combustible Decorations and Restrictions on Wearing


Apparel.

57.22.02 Sale of Combustible Decorations and Wearing Apparel.

57.22.03 Installation of Suspended or Dropped Ceilings.

57.22.04 Christmas Trees and Decorations.

57.22.05 Parade Floats.

SEC. 57.22.01. GENERAL USE OF COMBUSTIBLE DECORATIONS AND


RESTRICTIONS ON WEARING APPAREL.

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.

SEC. 57.22.02. SALE OF COMBUSTIBLE DECORATIONS AND WEARING


APPAREL.

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.

SEC. 57.22.03. INSTALLATION OF SUSPENDED OR DROPPED CEILINGS.


No person shall install or maintain any suspended or dropped ceiling over any area
unless it is fabricated of materials that conform to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

SEC. 57.22.04. CHRISTMAS TREES AND DECORATIONS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,060, Eff. 11/14/94.)

A. In buildings, tents, premises, or portions thereof, to which the public is admitted


or invited, Christmas trees and decorations shall comply with the provisions of this
subsection.

1. Christmas Trees - The base of cut natural trees shall be kept in water or wet sand.

2. Flame-retardant – Cut natural trees shall be flame-retardant treated in accordance


with Title 19, C.C.R., and a State Fire Marshal Certificate of Flame Resistance Tag shall
be attached near the base.

3. Decorations – All decorations used on Christmas trees shall be non-combustible


or flame-retardant and shall meet the requirements of Title 19, C.C.R. No open flame
device shall be used. All electrical equipment shall be of an approved type.

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.

6. Stability – Christmas trees shall be secure and stable in their position.

7. Fire Protection – An approved fire extinguisher in accordance with Division 140


of this article shall be available.

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.

9. Artificial Trees - Manufactured trees which are constructed of metallic, non-


combustible or fire-resistive materials may be used. Artificial and live Christmas trees
are subject to field test procedures.
10. Lighting - Lighting of metallic or otherwise electrically conductive trees shall
be done a minimum of six feet away from the tree and plainly visible from the area used
to light the tree. All lighting used for illumination of trees shall be Underwriters
Laboratories listed or other approved type.

B. Every person conducting, managing or operating a Christmas tree sales business,


whether exclusively or in conjunction with the sale of other goods, wares or merchandise,
shall attach, or cause to be attached, a Fire Safety Tag to each tree greater than two feet
tall and having a base greater than one inch in diameter prior to the sale of such tree. The
tag shall be securely affixed to the tree and shall have the following statements, as a
minimum, printed on it:

1. Make a fresh cut on the bottom of the tree; place in a reservoir tree stand filled
with water.

2. Water Christmas tree daily.

3. Test your smoke detectors.

4. Never use lights with frayed cords or empty sockets.

5. Mini-lights are safest; they produce less heat.

6. Do not use candles on or near tree.

7. Turn off all Christmas lights prior to leaving your home or going to bed.

8. Safely dispose of your tree before it becomes dangerously dry.

9. Never burn your tree or any part of it in a fireplace.

10. Pick-up/drop-off disposal services offered by the Bureau of Sanitation, Phone


No. ___________________.

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.

SEC. 57.22.05. PARADE FLOATS.


Parade floats using decorative materials attached to vehicles shall be constructed of
noncombustible or flame-retardant materials and shall be safeguarded against open flame
in accordance with the provisions of this section.

A. All float decorations shall be flame retardant, flame retardant treated, or


noncombustible if of 1/8 inch thickness or less. The use of materials treated with tar or
petroleum base flammable products or surfaced or covered with lacquers, highly
flammable paints, cellophane, and similar materials is prohibited. Paper, cloth, textiles
and vegetation which may occasion or constitute a fire hazard shall be rendered flame
retardant.

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.

D. An parade floats shall be provided with a portable fire extinguisher with a


minimum 2A,lOB:C rating. The extinguisher shall be readily accessible to the operator.
DIVISION 23
SMOKING

Section

57.23.01 Designation of Smoking Areas.

57.23.02 Compliance with Smoking Signs.

SEC. 57.23.01. DESIGNATION OF SMOKING AREAS.

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.

SEC. 57.23.02. COMPLIANCE WITH SMOKING SIGNS.

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.

57.24.02 Warning Agent.

57.24.03 Use and Care of Tarpaulins.

57.24.04 Evidence of Necessity for Flammable Fumigants.

57.24.05 Occupancy Restrictions.

57.24.06 Warning Signs.

57.24.07 Smoking and Open Flame.

57.24.08 Evacuation of Premises.

57.24.09 Fumigation Chambers.

57.24.10 Tarpaulin Fumigations.

57.24.11 Flammable Fumigants in High Dosage.

57.24.12 Distributing the Fumigant.

57.24.13 Rate of Discharge.

57.24.14 Combustible Wrapping.

57.24.15 Fogging.

57.24.16 Notification.

SEC. 57.24.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division shall regulate fumigations and thermal insecticidal
fogging operations and all other applicable requirements of this article.

SEC. 57.24.02. WARNING AGENT.

Fumigation or pest-control operations involving any structure, ship, or tarpaulin-


covered area in which a chemical is used which does not give adequate warning of
dangerous and lethal concentrations, shall require the use of Chloropicrin in conjunction
with such operations. The Chloropicrin shall be applied at the rate of one ounce per
15,000 cubic feet of space or portion thereof. The Chloropicrin shall be so used as to
permit penetration to all spaces under fumigation. This shall be done at least 30 minutes
prior to application of the fumigant. A California licensed fumigator shall supervise all
fumigation operations, and shall determine that all areas under fumigation have been so
permeated by Chloropicrin as to render them humanly untenable before leaving the
premises.

SEC. 57.24.03. USE AND CARE OF TARPAULINS.

Where tarpaulins or other covers are used in fumigation or pest-control operations,


such tarpaulins or covers shall be maintained in a state of good repair, without rips or
holes therein, and shall be carefully wrapped, rolled, and secured to adequately prevent
escape of gas in dangerous quantities.

SEC. 57.24.04. EVIDENCE OF NECESSITY FOR FLAMMABLE FUMIGANTS.

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.

3. Evidence of necessity is not required for the use of a flammable fumigant in


chambers approved by the Department.

SEC. 57.24.05. OCCUPANCY RESTRICTIONS.

Except in approved atmospheric or vacuum chambers, the use of unabsorbed


hydrogen cyanide, carbon disulfide, ethylene oxide, or other highly flammable substances
in fumigation is prohibited in, or within 100 feet of any residential, institutional or
assembly occupancy, and in any other type of occupancy unless the building, ship, or
other structure wherein the fumigation is to be conducted is located at least 50 feet from
any other ship or inhabited structure not under the control of the person having the
fumigation done.
EXCEPTION:

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.

SEC. 57.24.06. WARNING SIGNS.

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.

SEC. 57.24.07. SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME.

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.

SEC. 57.24.08. EVACUATION OF PREMISES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,955, Eff. 4/11/96.)

Fumigation is prohibited, except within an approved fumigation chamber, inside any


room, building, ship, or other structure, until all persons other than fumigators have been
removed therefrom in compliance with the requirements of the State Division of
Industrial Safety, the U.S. Public Health Service, and the Structural Pest Control Act, and
all animals (other than insects, rats, mice, pocket gophers, ground squirrels and moles)
have been removed therefrom.

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.

SEC. 57.24.09. FUMIGATION CHAMBERS.

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.

B. Chambers used for fumigation at pressures below atmospheric shall be of non-


combustible construction and, unless located outside of any building, shall be located in a
building or room acceptable to the Chief.

SEC. 57.24.10. TARPAULIN FUMIGATIONS.

A. Other applicable laws relating to reports, permits, signs, etc., shall be complied
with.

B. Evacuation requirements of buildings, ships, or other structures as set forth in


Section 57.24.08 shall be complied with; and in addition, where the volume of space or
material under the tarpaulin exceeds 20 percent of the volume of the building or other
structure, all adjoining rooms including those above and below, and an other parts of the
building or of adjacent buildings into which the gas may penetrate shall be vacated and
windows in such locations shall be open during fumigation.

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.

SEC. 57.24.11. FLAMMABLE FUMIGANTS IN HIGH DOSAGE.

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.

D. Unless a warning agent is used in compliance with Section 57.24.02, a sufficient


number of capable, alert watchmen shall be in attendance at all times during the period of
fumigation and aeration to make certain that no unauthorized person enters the danger
area until after the fumigator has determined by a personal check that the premises are
safe for occupancy.

SEC. 57.24.12. DISTRIBUTING THE FUMIGANT.

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.

SEC. 57.24.13. RATE OF DISCHARGE.

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.

SEC. 57.24.14. COMBUSTIBLE WRAPPING.

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.

SEC. 57.24.15. FOGGING.


No liquid having a flash point below 100 F shall be used for insecticidal fogging.

SEC. 57.24.16. NOTIFICATION.

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

57.25.01 Mountain Fire Districts Established.

57.25.02 Posting of Signs Prohibiting Smoking and Burning.

57.25.03 Authority to Construct, Maintain and Close Fire Roads, Fire Trails and
Firebreaks.

57.25.04 Authority in State and Federal Forests.

57.25.10 Discarding Flaming or Glowing Objects.

57.25.11 Open Flame Prohibited.

57.25.14 Smoking Prohibited.

57.25.17 Clearance of Vegetative Growth from Electrical Transmission Lines.

57.25.21 Restricted Entry in Mountain Fire Districts.

57.25.22 Tampering with Established Locks, Signs, Barriers or Water Tanks.

SEC. 57.25.01. MOUNTAIN FIRE DISTRICTS ESTABLISHED.

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.

B. When in the course of improvement of undeveloped areas of the City, new


streets, lots and building sites are created where none existed before, and such new
streets, lots and building sites overlap the existing boundary line of a Mountain Fire
District or Fire Buffer zone, the boundary line of such a district or zone shall be deemed
to be relocated along the center line of such newly created streets that lie closest to the
original boundary line location.

C. The Chief Engineer shall by regulation establish a legal description of all


Mountain Fire Districts and Fire Buffer Zones. Such regulations shall be amended from
time to time to reflect changes necessitated by Subsection B hereof or for other necessary
purposes. Every such regulation of the Chief Engineer shall be established according to
the requirements of Section 57.01.34 of this article.
SEC. 57.25.02. POSTING OF SIGNS PROHIBITING SMOKING AND BURNING.

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.

SEC. 57.25.03. AUTHORITY TO CONSTRUCT, MAINTAIN AND CLOSE FIRE


ROADS, FIRE TRAILS AND FIREBREAKS.

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.

SEC. 57.25.04. AUTHORITY IN STATE AND FEDERAL FORESTS.

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.

SEC. 57.25.10. DISCARDING FLAMING OR GLOWING OBJECTS.

(Title Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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.

SEC. 57.25.11. OPEN FLAME PROHIBITED.


There shall be no open flame or self-contained device capable of producing flame
permitted or located upon any road, street or fire road within a Mountain Fire District.

SEC. 57.25.14. SMOKING PROHIBITED.

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.

SEC. 57.25.17. CLEARANCE OF VEGETATIVE GROWTH FROM ELECTRICAL


TRANSMISSION LINES.

Any person owning, leasing, controlling, operating or maintaining any electrical


transmission line over any mountainous forest, brush, or hazardous vegetation covered
land shall at all times:

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.

SEC. 57.25.21. RESTRICTED ENTRY IN MOUNTAIN FIRE DISTRICTS.

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.

C. No person shall travel or trespass upon any firebreak or fire road.


D. No person shall operate, drive or park any motorcycle, motor scooter or other
vehicle within any Mountain Fire District, except upon clearly established public or
private roads, without first having secured a Special Permit from the Chief.

E. No unauthorizing person shall park any vehicle so as to obstruct the entrance to


any fire road, fire trail or firebreak.

SEC. 57.25.22. TAMPERING WITH ESTABLISHED LOCKS, SIGNS, BARRIERS


OR WATER TANKS.

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.

57.30.05 Permit Required.

57.30.06 Packaging and Selling Restrictions.

57.30.08 Transporting Class I or Ii Liquids Within Buildings.

57.30.09 Class I or II Liquids at Point of Use.

57.30.10 Sources of Ignition.

57.30.11 Special Limitations.

57.30.12 Hazardous Materials Cabinets – Construction and Use.

57.30.13 Empty Containers Inside of Buildings.

57.30.14 Aisles in Flammable and Combustible Liquid Storage Areas.

57.30.15 Hazardous Materials Room.

57.30.19 Aerosols.

57.30.20 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids Outside of a Hazardous


Materials Room – No Dispensing.

57.30.21 Storage of Flammable and/or Combustible Liquids Within a Hazardous


Materials Room – No Dispensing.

57.30.25 Sales Area in Wholesale and Retail Stores.

57.30.26 Storage Area in Wholesale and Retail Stores.


57.30.30 Storage and Dispensing of Flammable and/or Combustible Liquids Outside of
a Hazardous Materials Room or Cabinet.

57.30.31 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids Within a Hazardous Materials


Room – with Dispensing.

57.30.40 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids in Group H-1, H-2, and H-3
Occupancies.

57.30.41 Liquid Storage Warehouses.

57.30.45 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids in Basements.

57.30.50 Storage of Flammable And/or Combustible Liquids in Containers Outside of


Buildings.

57.30.51 Transfer in Connection with Outside Storage of Flammable And/or


Combustible Liquids.

57.30.55 Design and Construction of Portable Tanks.

57.30.56 Use of Portable Tanks.

57.30.57 Storage of Portable Tanks.

57.30.60 Covering of Containers.

57.30.61 Leaks and Spills.

57.30.62 Emergency Controls.

57.30.63 Cleaning and Repairs.

57.30.64 Static Electricity.

57.30.65 Separation of Storage.

57.30.66 Classifying Heated Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

57.30.80 Fire Protection.

57.30.81 Warning Placards and Signs.

57.30.82 Other Emergency Features.

SEC. 57.30.01. SCOPE.


(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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:

1. The transportation of flammable and/or combustible liquids when in conformity


with the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations on file with and approved by
the Department of Transportation.

2. Alcoholic beverages in retail stores, provided the liquids are packaged in


individual containers not exceeding one gallon or four liters.

3. Medicines, foodstuffs, and cosmetics containing not more than 50 percent by


volume of water-miscible liquids and the remainder of the solution is not flammable. In
sales or storage uses when packaged in individual containers not exceeding one gallon or
four liters.

4. Liquids without flash points that can be flammable under some conditions such
as certain halogenated hydrocarbons and mixtures containing halogenated hydrocarbons.

5. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden barrels or casks.

SEC. 57.30.03. PORTABLE TANKS, PORTABLE SHIPPING TANKS AND


CONTAINERS; CONSTRUCTION AND USE.

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

MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE SIZE OF CONTAINERS, PORTABLE TANKS AND

PORTABLE SHIPPING TANKS FOR FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE


LIQUIDS
Container
Class IA
Class IB
Class IC
Class II
Class III*

Glass
0
1 qt.
1 gal.
1 gal.
5 gal.

Metal or Approved Plastic


1 gal.
5 gal.
5 gal.
5 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.

Portable Shipping Tank


660 gal.
660 gal.
660 gal.
660 gal.
660 gal.

* (Title of Column Six Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.30.04. LABELS.

Labels on portable tanks and containers of flammable or combustible liquids shall


conform to the provisions of this section.

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.

B. Such labeling will not be required under the following conditions:

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.

5. Medicines, beverages, foodstuffs, and cosmetics in containers not exceeding 64


fluid ounces capacity and packaged in a manner approved by the Chief will not require
labeling.

C. The following wording shall be used:

1. Class I Liquids—DANGER—FLAMMABLE! KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT


AND OPEN FLAME.

2. Class II or III Liquids—CAUTION—COMBUSTIBLE!

SEC. 57.30.05. PERMIT REQUIRED.

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

AMOUNTS OF FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS

WHICH ARE EXEMPT FROM PERMIT REQUIREMENTS


Classification
Quantity

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.

SEC. 57.30.06. PACKAGING AND SELLING RESTRICTIONS.

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.

B. Restrictions and Prohibitions:

1. Class IA Liquids — The packaging, selling, or offering for sale of Class IA


liquids for use or storage in dwelling units is prohibited. EXCEPTION: Flammable
aerosols.

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.

SEC. 57.30.08. TRANSPORTING CLASS I OR II LIQUIDS WITHIN BUILDINGS.


Transportation of Class I or II liquids from storage rooms in buildings shall be in
approved containers not in excess of 60 gallons capacity. The handling or use of Class I
or II liquids in open containers is prohibited.

EXCEPTION:

The above restrictions shall not apply to locations conforming to Group H-1 and H-2
Occupancy requirements.

SEC. 57.30.09. CLASS I OR II LIQUIDS AT POINT OF USE.

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.

B. The amount of flammable or combustible liquids maintained for use in any


operating or processing area shall not exceed a supply sufficient for one working day,
unless greater quantity is permitted by Special Permit issued by the Department.

SEC. 57.30.10. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

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.

B. No person shall operate an industrial truck in areas where Class I or Class II


liquids are used, stored, or processed without the vehicle being equipped and maintained
in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 49.

SEC. 57.30.11. SPECIAL LIMITATIONS.

The Chief may impose reductions or prohibitions on the amounts of flammable or


combustible liquids in storage or use when he finds that an unusual risk involved by
reason of undue hazards to life, a hazardous storage or operation, unusual exposure, or
multiple occupancy.

SEC. 57.30.12. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CABINETS – CONSTRUCTION AND


USE.

A. Hazardous Materials Cabinets as referred to herein shall be constructed and used


in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 40. Cabinets shall be labeled in conspicuous
lettering, “FLAMMABLE - KEEP FIRE AWAY.”

B. Not more than 60 gallons of flammable and/or combustible liquids shall be


stored in any one Hazardous Materials Cabinet.
C. Maximum Storage:

1. Not more than 60 gallons in combination of Class I and II liquids shall be stored
in Hazardous Material Cabinets.

2. Combinations of Classes I, II, and IIIA liquids stored in Hazardous Materials


Cabinets shall be subject to the limitations set forth in C1 Above and shall not exceed 120
gallons.

3. Combinations of Class I, II, and III liquids stored in Hazardous Materials


Cabinets shall be subject to the limitations set forth in C1 and C2 above and shall not
exceed 240 gallons.

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.

SEC. 57.30.13. EMPTY CONTAINERS INSIDE OF BUILDINGS.

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.

SEC. 57.30.14. AISLES IN FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID


STORAGE AREAS.

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.

SEC. 57.30.15. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ROOM.

A. Every Hazardous Materials Room used for the storage or dispensing of


flammable or combustible liquids shall be constructed in accordance with the
requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
B. No combustible materials, oxidizers, explosives, acids, or compressed gases shall
be stored in a Hazardous Materials Room with Class I, II, or III liquids, except such
combustible materials as may be incidental to the use of the room.

SEC. 57.30.19. AEROSOLS.

A. Flammable aerosols shall be classed as a Class IA liquid. Flammable aerosols


shall comply with applicable provisions of this division as to labeling and storage
requirements.

EXCEPTION:

Flammable aerosols that comply with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 63.

B. Flammable aerosols displayed in retail sales areas shall be limited to a total of 30


gallons. The quantity of flammable aerosols displayed may be doubled for areas
protected by an automatic sprinkler system.

SEC. 57.30.20. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS


OUTSIDE OF A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ROOM – NO DISPENSING.

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.

A. Individual containers shall not exceed a capacity of five gallons.

B. The total aggregate quantity of flammable or combustible liquids within a


building, but outside of a Hazardous Materials Room, shall not exceed the amounts set
forth in Table 30-B.

C. Aggregate amounts of flammable or combustible liquids within a building in


excess of the amounts set forth in Table 30-B shall be stored within a Hazardous
Materials Room.

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.

SEC. 57.30.21. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE AND/OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS


WITHIN A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ROOM – NO DISPENSING.

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.

A. Individual containers shall not exceed a capacity of 60 gallons.

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.

E. If a Hazardous Materials Room is used exclusively for the storage of


combustible liquids, the amount set forth in Subsections C and of this section may be
doubled.

SEC. 57.30.25. SALES AREA IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL STORES.

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:

1. Storage or display of Class I liquids shall be prohibited in basements.

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.

2. The quantities of flammable and/or combustible solvents and thinners displayed


in occupancies not protected with an automatic sprinkler system shall not exceed the
following amounts:

a. Class IB liquids shall not exceed 120 gallons.


b. Class IC liquids shall not exceed 180 gallons.

c. Class II liquids shall not exceed 240 gallons.

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.

C. Dispensing shall not be allowed in the sales area.

D. Leaking containers shall be removed to a Hazardous Materials Room or taken


outside the building, and the contents transferred in undamaged containers.

SEC. 57.30.26. STORAGE AREA IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL STORES.

A. Additional quantities of flammable and/or combustible liquids in portions of the


occupancy not accessible to the public shall not exceed the following amounts:

1. Class IA liquids shall not exceed 60 gallons.

2. Class IB liquids shall not exceed 120 gallons.

3. Class IC liquids shall not exceed 180 gallons.

4. Class II liquids shall not exceed 240 gallons.

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.

6. Class III liquids shall not exceed 500 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.

D. Leaking containers shall be removed to a Hazardous Materials Room or taken


outside the building, and the contents transferred into undamaged containers.

SEC. 57.30.30. STORAGE AND DISPENSING OF FLAMMABLE AND/OR


COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS OUTSIDE OF A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ROOM OR
CABINET.

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.

A. Flammable and combustible liquids stored outside of Hazardous Materials


Cabinets or Hazardous Materials Rooms shall be stored as follows:

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.

b. Metal drums or containers shall be stored in an upright position. Metal drums


may be placed on their side if the liquid has a high viscosity as determined by the Chief,
and a listed self-closing dispensing device is provided.

c. Dispensing from upright metal drums or containers shall by means of a device


drawing from the top.

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.

B. The storage location of flammable and combustible liquids shall be approved by


the Chief.

C. The transfer of flammable or combustible liquids from one container to another


shall be performed at the storage location unless otherwise approved by the Chief.

TABLE 30-C

MAXIMUM QUANTITY AND DIMENSIONS OF PILES OF CONTAINERS

OF FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS


Class

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:

1. Protected storage is storage which is protected by an approved automatic fire


extinguishing system.

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.

3. See Section 57.30.41 for unlimited quantities in liquid storage warehouses.

SEC. 57.30.31. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS


WITHIN A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ROOM – WITH DISPENSING.

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.

A. Individual containers shall not exceed a capacity of 60 gallons except in


Hazardous Materials Rooms that are protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system.

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.

G. If a Hazardous Materials Room is used exclusively for the storage of


combustible liquids, the amounts set forth in Subsections E and F may be doubled.

SEC. 57.30.40. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN


GROUP H-1, H-2, AND H-3 OCCUPANCIES.

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.

A. The total quantity of flammable or combustible liquids stored shall conform to


the requirements of Table 30-C, except as may be specified on the Permit required by
Section 57.30.05.

B. Containers in piles shall be separated by pallets or dunnage, where necessary to


provide stability and to prevent excessive stress on container walls.

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.

D. Limited amounts of packing materials, empty pallets, and other combustible


commodities essential for the processing of Class I, II, or III liquids may be stored in the
same area provided there is a minimum separation of eight feet between the liquid storage
and combustible materials.

SEC. 57.30.41. LIQUID STORAGE WAREHOUSES.

A. General: Buildings used only for the storage of flammable or combustible


liquids exceeding the quantities set forth in Table 30-B and/or Sections 57.30.20 and
57.30.21 shall comply with the provisions of this section. Such building shall have a
minimum occupancy classification of Group H, Division 3 and shall be constructed in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

B. Sprinkler Systems: Liquid storage warehouses shall be protected by automatic


sprinkler systems designed and installed in accordance with the requirements of Chapter
9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).

C. Storage Arrangement: The total quantities of liquids in a liquid storage


warehouse shall not be limited, but the arrangement of storage shall be in accordance
with Table 30-C and Sec. 57.30.40.

D. Hose Lines: A Class II standpipe system shall be installed in accordance with


Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).

SEC. 57.30.45. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN


BASEMENTS.

A. Class I liquids shall not be stored in basements.

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:

1. Class II liquids shall be limited to 60 gallons.

2. Class IIIA liquids shall be limited to 120 gallons.


3. Class IIIB liquids shall be limited to 180 gallons.

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.

5. The basement shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in


accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).

SEC. 57.30.50. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE AND/OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS


IN CONTAINERS OUTSIDE OF BUILDINGS.

The storage of flammable and/or combustible liquids in containers outside of


buildings shall comply with the provisions of this section and Table 30-D.

TABLE 30-D

OUTDOOR CONTAINER STORAGE


Class of Liquid
Maximum Per Pile

(Gallons)

(See Note 1)
Height

(ft.)
Distance Between Piles

(See Note 2)
Distance to Property Line That Can Be Built Upon

(See Notes 3 and 4)


Distance Street, Alley or Public Way

(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:

1. Piles containing multiple classes of material shall be limited to the maximum


gallonage of the most hazardous class in the pile.

2. A 20-foot access road shall be provided within 150 feet of each container to
permit approach of Fire Department apparatus.

3. If adjoining property is under the same management or presents no exposures


distances to property line that can be built upon may be reduced by no more than 50
percent.

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:

1. The building is a one-story building devoted principally to handling and storing


of flammable or combustible liquids, or building has two-hour fire-resistive exterior walls
with no opening within 10 feet of such storage.

2. Where quantity stored exceeds 1,100 gallons, or the provisions of Subsection A.


1. of this section cannot be met, a minimum distance in accordance with Table 30-D,
column five (Distance to Property Line That Can Be Built Upon) shall be maintained
between the building and the nearest container or portable tank.

B. The quantity of liquids stored adjacent to a building protected in accordance with


Subsection A.1. of this section may exceed 1,100 gallons, provided the maximum
quantity per pile does not exceed 1,100 gallons and each pile is separated by 10 feet
minimum clear space along the common wall.

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.

SEC. 57.30.51. TRANSFER IN CONNECTION WITH OUTSIDE STORAGE OF


FLAMMABLE AND/OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS.

A. Transfer of materials from one container to another shall meet the following
minimum conditions:

1. Transfer operation shall be located on an area graded in a manner to conduct any


spill away from the storage area to a safe location.

2. Transfer operations shall be conducted near the storage area, but separated at
least 15 feet from any pile of drums or other containers.

3. Transfer shall be by means of acceptable drum pump, listed self-closing shut-off


device, inert gas, or water.

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.

6. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided as required by Division 140 of this


article.

SEC. 57.30.55. DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF PORTABLE TANKS.

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.

SEC. 57.30.56. USE OF PORTABLE TANKS.

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.

2. Dispensing from a portable tank shall be by means of a closed piping system, or a


device drawing through an opening in the top of the tank, or by gravity through a listed
self-closing valve where liquid has a high viscosity.

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.

SEC. 57.30.57. STORAGE OF PORTABLE TANKS.

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

STORAGE OF PORTABLE TANKS IN ONE STORY LIQUID STORAGE


WAREHOUSES
Class
Maximum Storage

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.

SEC. 57.30.60. COVERING OF CONTAINERS.

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.

SEC. 57.30.61. LEAKS AND SPILLS.

Where flammable or combustible liquids are used or handled, means shall be provided
to safely control and dispose of leaks or spills.

SEC. 57.30.62. EMERGENCY CONTROLS.

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.

SEC. 57.30.63. CLEANING AND REPAIRS.

When repairs, alterations, or cleaning operations are performed on tanks, vats, or in


confined spaces which contain or have last contained a Class I, II, or IIIA liquid or
substance giving rise to flammable vapors, the applicable provisions of L.A.F.D.
Standards No. 8, 9, and 11 shall apply and the following procedure shall be followed:

A. All employees engaged in the operation shall be advised of hazards they may
encounter.

B. Lines which may convey hazardous materials to the vessels shall be


disconnected or other positive means shall be used to prevent discharge of such material
into the vessel.

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.

SEC. 57.30.64. STATIC ELECTRICITY.

A. Where containers are not effectively grounded and bonded by contact or


connection, provisions shall be made to prevent the accumulation of static electrical
charges which may create a source of ignition in the presence of flammable vapors or
gases.
B. Bonding devices which are temporarily clamped, clipped, or otherwise attached
to movable equipment shall have a conductor of ample length to assure the effective
attachment of the device. This conductor shall be stranded wire not smaller than No. 8,
A.W.G. (America Wire Gage).

C. When attaching bonding clamps or clips, a secure and positive metal-to-metal


contact shall be made. Such attachments shall be made before closures are opened and
liquid movements are started and shall not be broken until after liquid movements are
stopped and closures are made.

SEC. 57.30.65. SEPARATION OF STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.30.66. CLASSIFYING HEATED FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE


LIQUIDS.

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.

C. A combustible liquid or a flammable liquid heated to a temperature such that the


vapor pressure is above its boiling point shall be regulated as a liquefied flammable gas.

NOTE: When classifying heated combustible and flammable liquids, determination as


to the new class will be made by an approved testing laboratory and the Department.

SEC. 57.30.80. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. In every building or portion of a building where flammable and/or combustible


liquids are used, processed, produced, or stored, approved fire protection shall be
provided and located as otherwise specified in this article.

B. In addition to the general provisions of Subsection A of this section, Class B


portable fire extinguishers shall be located within buildings in accordance with the
provisions of this subsection.

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.

SEC. 57.30.81. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Whenever flammable or combustible liquids are processed, stored, or used in


quantities requiring a Permit under Division 4 of this article, placards shall be posted
indicating the hazard of the material. Such placards shall be designed and constructed as
specified by L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 and shall be conspicuously posted in the following
locations:

1. At an entrance to any building where flammable or combustible liquids are


stored, processed, 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 flammable or


combustible liquids are stored, processed, or used, or within such area, if no entrance is
clearly defined.

B. In addition, whenever flammable or combustible liquids 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 flammable or combustible liquids are processed, stored, or used and shall
be conspicuously lettered on contrasting background with letters at least three inches
high. Every such sign shall include the words “FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS”
or “COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS”, or other wording required by the Chief.

SEC. 57.30.82. OTHER EMERGENCY FEATURES.

Every building or portion of a building where flammable or combustible liquids are


used, processed, or stored in such a manner as to give rise to undue hazard of fire or
explosion from flammable liquids or vapors, the Department may require that such areas
be provided with approved local exhaust ventilation or general room ventilation,
explosion venting, emergency drains, curbs, warning systems, or approved fire
extinguishing systems.
DIVISION 31
ATMOSPHERIC TANKS

Section

General Provisions

57.31.01 Scope.

57.31.02 Definitions.

57.31.03 Permits Required.

57.31.04 Protection for Tanks.

57.31.05 Heating Equipment.

57.31.05.1 Temporarily Out of Service.

57.31.05.2 Unauthorized Release.

Aboveground Tanks

57.31.06 Construction of Aboveground Tanks.

57.31.07 Foundation and Supports.

57.31.08 Location of Aboveground Tanks.

57.31.09 Spacing Between Aboveground Tanks.

57.31.10 Control of Spills, Leaks and Overflows.

57.31.11 Drainage System.

57.31.12 Diked Areas.

57.31.13 Venting of Aboveground Tanks.

57.31.14 Grounding and Bonding.

57.31.15 Stairs, Walkways, and Platforms.

57.31.16 Gauging Devices.

57.31.17 Sources of Ignition.


57.31.18 Tanks Inside Buildings.

57.31.19 Ventilation in Buildings.

57.31.20 Reconditioning of Used Tanks.

57.31.21 Insulation.

57.31.22 Engine Fuel Tank.

57.31.23 Warning Placards and Signs.

57.31.24 Fire Protection for Tanks.

Underground Tanks

57.31.30 Scope.

57.31.31 Definitions.

57.31.32 New Underground Tank Requirements.

57.31.33 Secondary Containment.

57.31.34 Construction, Corrosion Protection, and Testing of Underground Tanks.

57.31.35 Requirements for Existing Underground Tanks.

57.31.36 Facility Inspection for Continued Use.

57.31.37 Integrity Testing of Underground Tanks.

57.31.38 Soils Investigation.

57.31.38.01 Site Assessment.

57.31.39 Monitoring Systems.

57.31.40 Facility Inspection and Records.

57.31.41 Location of Underground Tanks.

57.31.42 Installation of Underground Tanks.

57.31.43 Venting of Underground Tanks.


57.31.44 Installation Inspection.

57.31.45 Suction Delivery System.

57.31.46 Pressure Delivery System.

57.31.48 Ground Level Service Openings.

57.31.49 Fill Box.

57.31.50 Security of Access.

57.31.52 Abandonment of Underground Tanks.

57.31.53 Repair of Underground Tanks.

57.31.54 Reinstallation.

57.31.55 Financial Responsibility.

57.31.56 Methanol Compatibility.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

SEC. 57.31.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.02. DEFINITIONS.


(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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:

1. Substances on the list prepared by the Director of the Department of Industrial


Relations pursuant to Section 6382 of the Labor Code;

2. Hazardous substances, as defined in Section 25316 of the Health and Safety


Code;

3. Any substance or material which is classified as a Class I, II or IIIA liquid.

Unauthorized Release - Any emission or escape of any hazardous substance which


does not conform to the provisions of this division, unless such release is in accordance
with the release regulations of the South Coast Air Quality Management District and
California Air Resources Board, with a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) Permit, or with waste discharge requirements established by a Regional Water
Quality Control Board.

Underground Tank or Underground Storage Tank – Any atmospheric tank which is


partially or entirely below the surface of the ground and is used to store or process a
hazardous substance including any connected piping and appurtenances.

SEC. 57.31.03. PERMITS REQUIRED.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.05. HEATING EQUIPMENT.

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.

B. When tanks require the heating of flammable or combustible liquids, the


provisions of Section 57.30.66 of this article shall apply.

SEC. 57.31.05.1. TEMPORARILY OUT OF SERVICE.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.05.2. UNAUTHORIZED RELEASE.

(Added by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. No person shall cause or allow the storage of hazardous substances in a manner


which causes an unauthorized release of hazardous substances or poses a significant risk
of such unauthorized release.

B. Reporting - Any person who has knowledge of an unauthorized release of a


hazardous substance shall notify the Chief immediately. A written report shall be
submitted by the owner, operator, or permittee within 10 days after the escape of a
hazardous substance from a primary container when the unauthorized release:

1. Has occurred or has the potential to enter groundwater.

2. Could endanger life, property, or the environment.

3. Is contained by secondary containment.

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.

C. Cleanup - The owner, operator, or permittee shall be responsible to take all


necessary steps to ensure the immediate containment and cleanup of any unauthorized
release of a hazardous substance. If an unauthorized release has entered or has the
potential to enter groundwater, the Chief shall immediately notify the California Regional
Water Quality Control Board and shall request that they assume lead agency status for the
investigation and abatement of the release.

ABOVEGROUND TANKS

SEC. 57.31.06. CONSTRUCTION OF ABOVEGROUND TANKS.

Aboveground tanks shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this


section.

A. Shop-built aboveground tanks shall be constructed in accordance with the


provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 37.

B. Field-erected aboveground tanks shall be constructed in accordance with the


provisions of L.A.F.D. Standards No. 13,14, 15,16, or 17, as their proposed use may
indicate.

SEC. 57.31.07. FOUNDATION AND SUPPORTS.

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).

SEC. 57.31.08. LOCATION OF ABOVEGROUND TANKS.

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.

C. Except as provided in Subsections A or B of this section, every aboveground


tank shall be located in accordance with Table 31-A.

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

More Than 3,000,000


175
60

SEC. 57.31.09. SPACING BETWEEN ABOVEGROUND TANKS.

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.

SEC. 57.31.10. CONTROL OF SPILLS, LEAKS AND OVERFLOWS.

The accidental discharge of hazardous substances from aboveground tanks shall be


diverted by means of a drainage system as provided in Section 57.31.11 or shall be
contained by dikes as provided in Section 57.31.12. These provisions may be altered at
the discretion of the Chief when the tanks under consideration do not constitute a hazard.

SEC. 57.31.11. DRAINAGE SYSTEM.

Where protection is not provided by natural topography and where control of


accidental discharge is by means of a drainage system to a remote impounding basin,
such system shall comply with the provisions of this section.

A. Each tank shall be installed in such a manner so as to provide a consistent slope


of not less than one percent away from the tank toward the impounding basin.

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.

D. The drainage system shall terminate in a detached impounding basin or other


approved containment. This containment area and the route of the drainage system shall
be so located that if unauthorized release occurs, the release will not endanger adjoining
property or other tanks.
E. Any group of tanks containing noncompatible hazardous materials shall have
drainage systems and impounding basins designed to avoid potential intermixing.

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.

H. Floating Roof Tanks: Roof drain valves shall be identified “ROOF


RAINWATER DRAIN” on a sign with letters not less than three inches high on a
contrasting background.

SEC. 57.31.12. DIKED AREAS.

Where control of accidental discharge is by means of a diked area, such diked area
shall comply with the provisions of this section.

A. The net volumetric capacity available to a tank or group of tanks within a


common diked area shall be not less than 100 percent of the largest tank enclosed by the
diked area.

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.

3. Where a separate impounding basin is used to reduce the required capacity of a


diked area, drainage sufficient to prevent overflow of the dike and effective control of
flow shall be provided.

4. The volumetric capacity of a single impounding basin may be applied to reduce


the required capacity of each of the diked areas draining to it.

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.

D. Any group of tanks containing noncompatible materials shall have separate


diked areas designed to avoid potential intermixing.

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.

4. The intermediate curbs of drainage channels shall be located between tanks so as


to take full advantage of the available space with due regard for the individual tank
capacities. Where intermediate curbs are used, they shall be not less than 18 inches in
height, and construction requirements shall be the same as for dike walls.

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.

G. No dry vegetation or combustible material not a part of the permanent


installation nor any empty or full drum or barrel shall be permitted within a diked area.

SEC. 57.31.13. VENTING OF ABOVEGROUND TANKS.

A. Atmospheric storage tanks shall be adequately vented to prevent the


development of vacuum or pressure sufficient to distort any portion of the tank or to
exceed the design pressure, which might result during filling or emptying, or changes in
temperature or atmospheric pressure. Tanks storing Class I liquids shall be equipped with
either venting devices which shall be normally closed when not under pressure or
vacuum or with an approved flame arrester.

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.

SEC. 57.31.14. GROUNDING AND BONDING.

All aboveground tanks not inherently grounded shall be electrically Founded or


bonded as approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.31.15. STAIRS, WALKWAYS, AND PLATFORMS.

Stairs, walkways, catwalks, and similar equipment on or adjacent to aboveground


tanks or within dike walls shall be of noncombustible construction and in locations
approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.31.16. GAUGING DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.31.17. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

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.

SEC. 57.31.18. TANKS INSIDE BUILDINGS.

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.

B. No tank shall be located, installed, maintained, or used inside any building


except in an approved location and in conformance with the following specifications:

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.

4. The use of weak roof seams on tanks within buildings is prohibited.

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.

SEC. 57.31.19. VENTILATION IN BUILDINGS.

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.

B. Explosion venting methods and devices approved by the Building Department


shall be installed in every room in which flammable vapors present a potential explosion
hazard.

SEC. 57.31.20. RECONDITIONING OF USED TANKS.

Tanks which are to be reconditioned or abandoned by welding, cutting, or other “hot


work” methods shall be rendered gas-free before any welding or cutting operations are
conducted. All operations in connection with the reconditioning of used tanks using such
methods shall be carried on under supervision of experienced personnel and in
compliance with L.A.F.D. Standards No. 27 and 48.

SEC. 57.31.21. INSULATION.


Atmospheric tanks containing hazardous materials may be insulated by the application
of insulating material approved by the Chief. Insulating materials shall be fire resistant
and shall not decompose rapidly if exposed to fire.

SEC. 57.31.22. ENGINE FUEL TANK.

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.

SEC. 57.31.23. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

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.

SEC. 57.31.24. FIRE PROTECTION FOR TANKS.


A. Every aboveground tank having a liquid surface area of 10 square feet or more
shall be provided with approved fire protection equipment, an inerting system, or
otherwise safeguarded against fire or explosion in a manner approved by the Chief.

B. Portable fire extinguishers shall be of a size, number, and located as required in


Division 140 of this article.

UNDERGROUND TANKS

SEC. 57.31.30. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

In addition to applicable requirements of this division, the following sections shall


regulate underground atmospheric tanks and appurtenances used for the storage or
processing of hazardous materials substances.

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.

SEC. 57.31.31. DEFINITIONS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

Facility – Any underground tank or group of underground tanks containing hazardous


substances which are located at a single site. New Facility—Any underground tank
containing a hazardous substance which was installed or placed in service on or after
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.

Single-Walled – The construction of tank walls consisting of one thickness of


material. Laminated, coated or clad materials shall be considered as single-walled.

SEC. 57.31.32. NEW UNDERGROUND TANK REQUIREMENTS.

Every new underground tank shall be provided with and meet the following minimum
requirements.

A. Secondary containment in accordance with Section 57.31.33.

B. Construction, corrosion protection, and testing of underground tanks in


accordance with Section 57.31.34.

C. Approved release detection in accordance with Section 57.31.39. (Added by


Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

D. Approved spill and overfill prevention equipment in accordance with Section


57.31.42, Section 57.31.48 and Section 57.31.49. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)

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.)

SEC. 57.31.33. SECONDARY CONTAINMENT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Every new facility shall be designed and constructed with secondary


containment. Secondary containment shall be capable of being integrity tested.
B. Secondary containment shall be compatible with any hazardous substance
contained within a primary tank or within several primary tanks served by a single
secondary containment. Hazardous substances shall not be intermixed so as to cause a
fire, explosion, or the production of toxic or poisonous gas. Hazardous substances which
are not compatible with each other shall have separate primary tank and secondary
containment systems.

C. Secondary containment shall be large enough to contain at least 100 percent of


the volume of the primary tank, and be structurally capable of storing the hazardous
substances for the maximum anticipated period of time necessary for the safe recovery of
any released hazardous substance.

D. Secondary containment which includes multiple primary tanks shall be capable


of containing at least 150 percent of the volume of the largest primary tank, and be
structurally capable of storing the hazardous substance for the maximum anticipated
period of time necessary for the safe recovery of any released hazardous substance.

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.

F. Secondary containment systems shall have a nationally recognized testing


laboratory listing and a L.A.F.D. Equipment Approval.

G. Secondary containment shall be provided under the dispenser. Containment will


provide a mechanical or electrical device (float valve or probe) to disable the flow of
product to that dispenser.

H. Tank Opening Sumps must have electronic monitoring probes.

SEC. 57.31.34. CONSTRUCTION, CORROSION PROTECTION, AND TESTING OF


UNDERGROUND TANKS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.35. REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING UNDERGROUND TANKS.

Every existing underground tank shall meet the following minimum requirements by
January 1, 1985.

A. Facility inspection evaluation in accordance with Section 57.31.36.


B. Integrity testing in accordance with Section 57.31.37. Results of precision tests
must be submitted to the Department within 90 days of the test to be considered current.
(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

C. Soils investigation in accordance with Section 57.31.38.

D. Monitoring systems in accordance with Section 57.31.39.

E. Facility inspection and records in accordance with Section 57.31.40.

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.)

SEC. 57.31.36. FACILITY INSPECTION FOR CONTINUED USE.

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.

In determining whether continued storage in such underground tank is suitable, the


Chief shall consider the following criteria:

1. The age of the underground tank and facility.

2. The method of containment.

3. The method of monitoring.

4. The feasibility of any required retrofit.

5. The amount and type of hazardous substance stored.

6. The severity of any potential unauthorized release.

SEC. 57.31.37. INTEGRITY TESTING OF UNDERGROUND TANKS.

(Title and Section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.38. SOILS INVESTIGATION.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

To determine whether or not an unauthorized release has occurred at a facility, the


Chief has the authority to require a soils analysis by soil boring, soil samples, or other
approved method. The soils analysis along with documentation of the sequence of
custody of the soil analysis shall be submitted to the Chief in writing and certified by a
California Registered Engineering Geologist, a California Certified Geologist, or a
Registered Civil Engineer.

SEC. 57.31.38.01. SITE ASSESSMENT.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

The site assessment shall include the following information:

A. The vertical and lateral extent of contamination as defined by an adequate


number of properly located soil borings and laboratory soil test results.

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.

D. Depth to groundwater (which includes perched groundwater) at the site.

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.

SEC. 57.31.39. MONITORING SYSTEMS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Requirements - Every underground tank shall be provided with an automatic,


continuous, electronic monitoring system designed and constructed to be capable of
detecting the release of the stored hazardous substance.

NOTE:

All systems shall be certified annually to ensure operation meets manufacturer’s


specifications.

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.

1. All methods of monitoring, detection, and leak interception shall be certified by a


California Registered Engineer and be approved by the Chief.

2. Monitoring systems shall:

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.

b. Be electrically approved by Underwriters Laboratory for intrinsic safety.

c. Have all sensing components and wiring supervised.

d. Be tamper proof.

e. Have L.A.F.D. Equipment Approval.

f. Have a button to test continuity located on the face of the panel.


3. Monitoring system annunciator panels shall be installed in locations where
responsible personnel are normally in attendance during operation of the facility. These
panels shall not be installed in closets or storage rooms nor in other isolated areas.

4. Written operating instructions and procedures shall be permanently affixed to the


face of the monitoring system annunciator panel giving a step-by-step explanation of the
procedures to be used when an unauthorized release occurs and when testing the
monitoring system for continuity. If space on panel face does not permit this, a durable
permanently affixed placard located immediately adjacent to the panel, and clearly visible
will be accepted.

5. All monitoring systems must be field performance tested for the product being
monitored. Appropriate tracer substances may be used in testing vadose systems.

B. Approved Methods of Monitoring:

Any or all of the following methods of monitoring may be incorporated into a


monitoring system:

1. Secondary Containment Monitoring.

a. When a Secondary Containment Monitoring System is used, the monitoring


device(s) shall be capable of detecting a leak of the product stored and water.

b. All Secondary Containment Monitoring Systems shall be installed in a manner


that allows servicing and liquid removal.

2. Tank Level Monitoring.

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;

b. Must be an approved system capable of detecting a leak rate of .2 gallons per


hour (gph) with a minimum probability of detection of 95% and a maximum probability
of false alarm of 5%.
c. Must have capability and accuracy substantiated by a nationally recognized
independent testing laboratory.

3. Electronic Product Line Leak Detection.

a. Shall cause complete turbine shut down based on a leak rate of not greater than
.05 gph.

b. Shall compensate for vapor and entrapped air.

4. Alternate methods of monitoring will be reviewed and evaluated by the Fire


Department.

SEC. 57.31.40. FACILITY INSPECTION AND RECORDS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

The owner, operator, or permittee of a facility shall conduct or cause to be conducted


monthly inspections and tests of the facility, including the monitoring systems of that
facility. Records of these inspections and tests shall be maintained for at least three years
and shall be available for inspection by the Chief. Facilities shall be inspected annually
by the Fire Department. Every three years, a facility inspection which includes
performance testing of monitoring systems shall be conducted. This test shall be
witnessed by the Department.

SEC. 57.31.41. LOCATION OF UNDERGROUND TANKS.

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.

B. Tanks shall be so located with respect to existing building foundations and


supports that the loads carried by these foundations and supports cannot be transmitted to
the tank. The distance from any part of a tank to the nearest wall or any basement, pit, or
cellar shall not be less than one foot and not be less than three feet from any property line
that may be built upon.

C. Underground tanks shall be separated from each other by at least one foot.

SEC. 57.31.42. INSTALLATION OF UNDERGROUND TANKS.

A. Excavations shall be made with proper precautions for existing foundations


and/or load bearing supports.
B. Tanks shall be set on a firm foundation of at least 12 inches of noncorrosive inert
backfill material such as clean sand or pea gravel well tamped in place on the tops, sides,
and ends of tanks.

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).

E. The fill box or opening shall be safeguarded against spills or unauthorized


release where asphaltic or concrete paving is not provided.

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.)

SEC. 57.31.43. VENTING OF UNDERGROUND TANKS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

E. Vent pipes shall be located and supported in an approved manner.

F. Vent pipes shall be unobstructed and only approved pressure relief valves or
approved ball check valves shall be installed inside the tank.

SEC. 57.31.44. INSTALLATION INSPECTION.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.45. SUCTION DELIVERY SYSTEM.

(Amended by Ord. N0. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

C. The product suction pump is in an approved location.

D. The underground tank is provided with approved spill and overfill prevention
equipment.

SEC. 57.31.46. PRESSURE DELIVERY SYSTEM.

(Title and Section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

(Repealed by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

SEC. 57.31.48. GROUND LEVEL SERVICE OPENINGS.

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.

SEC. 57.31.49. FILL BOX.

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. 57.31.50. SECURITY OF ACCESS.

Access to a facility shall be secured by fences and/or locks or other equivalent


protection approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.31.51.

(Repealed by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

SEC. 57.31.52. ABANDONMENT OF UNDERGROUND TANKS.

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.

B. The abandonment of underground tanks, piping and appurtenances shall be


accomplished by removing them from the ground. An alternate method may be approved
by the Chief when removal from the ground would cause an unsafe condition or would be
impractical.

C. The owner, operator, or permittee of any underground tank 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 of operations prior to
the proposed date of abandonment operations to arrange a mutually agreed upon
appointment date with the district inspector. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)

D. Before any underground tank is transported, it shall be inerted in such a manner


as to render it free of flammable vapors.

E. The permittee shall establish to the satisfaction of the Chief that no unauthorized
release of hazardous substance has occurred.

F. Secondary containment, monitoring, and detection systems shall be abandoned in


a method approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.31.53. REPAIR OF UNDERGROUND TANKS.

Underground tanks may be repaired one time in a method approved by the Chief and
in accordance with the following provisions:

A. Before such repair, a soils investigation shall be conducted to determine if an


unauthorized release has occurred.

B. A Permit shall be issued in accordance with Division 5 of this article.

C. After such repair, the tank shall be tested in a method approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.31.54. REINSTALLATION.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

No person shall reinstall any used or reconditioned underground tank unless the tank
complies with all the following requirements:

A. Current tank construction standards.


B. Inspected and repaired by the tank manufacturer.

C. Certified by a qualified registered professional engineer as equivalent to a new


tank.

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.

F. Precision tested in accordance with LAFD Standard No. 10 of this article.

G. Reinstallation of underground tanks shall be confined to the site.

SEC. 57.31.55. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.31.56. METHANOL COMPATIBILITY.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

57.33.02 Determination of Occupant Load.

57.33.03 Occupant Load Responsibility.

57.33.04 Occupant Load Sign.

57.33.05 Overcrowding.

57.33.06 Exits.

57.33.07 Exit Doors.

57.33.08 Locks on Penthouse Doors.

57.33.09 Exit Stairways.

57.33.10 Panic Hardware.

57.33.11 Obstruction of Exits and Aisles.

57.33.12 Elimination of Exit Doorways.

57.33.13 Use of Exit Ways.

57.33.14 Fire Escapes.

57.33.15 Exit Signs and Directional Exit Signs.

57.33.16 Exit Path Lighting.

57.33.17 Stairway Identification System.

57.33.18 Exit Aisles and Seating Arrangements.

57.33.19 Emergency Planning and Evacuation Requirements for High-rise Buildings.

SEC. 57.33.01. SCOPE.


This division sets forth the minimum fire and life safety requirements for every
building, structure, or premises which is used or is intended to be used for human
occupancy. This division further sets forth the minimum requirements for exit and access
facilities together with associated lighting, signs, and maximum occupant loads.

SEC. 57.33.02. DETERMINATION OF OCCUPANT LOAD.

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.

B. The occupant load permitted in any place of assemblage shall be determined by


dividing the floor area assigned to that occupancy by the occupant load factor (square feet
per occupant) as set forth in Table No. 33-A.

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.

C. In determining the occupant load, all portions of a building shall be presumed to


be occupied at the same time.

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.

G. The number of seats provided in any assembly occupancy or portion thereof


shall not exceed the maximum occupant load as determined by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.33.03. OCCUPANT LOAD RESPONSIBILITY.

No manager or person in control thereof shall admit to any assembly occupancy or


premises a greater number of persons than that for which the exit facilities are designed
or maintained or a greater number than he maximum occupant load stated as a condition
of any Permit required by Division 4 of this article.

SEC. 57.33.04. OCCUPANT LOAD SIGN.

A. The manager or person in control of any place of assemblage shall post an


occupant load sign, indicating the use and maximum number of occupants allowed in the
room or area, in a conspicuous place near the main exit doorway. Areas within a place of
assemblage having multiple uses shall have the maximum number of occupants for each
use posted.

B. The manager or person in control of any place of assemblage shall be responsible


for maintaining the occupant load signs and floor plans required by this division.

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:

1. In accordance with L.A.M.C. Section 57.33.04, This assembly room or area is


approved for the following use(s) and the maximum number of occupants shall not
exceed that shown.

2. Use

3. Number of Occupants

4. Address of Occupancy

5. Assembly Room Designation

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.

SEC. 57.33.05. OVERCROWDING.

A. No manager or person in control of any assembly occupancy or premises shall


allow an overcrowded condition to exist in that assembly occupancy or premises.

B. No person shall remain in any building or premises that is overcrowded when


told to leave by the manager or person in control thereof or by any authorized
enforcement officer.

SEC. 57.33.06. EXITS.

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).

TABLE NO. 33-A

OCCUPANT LOAD AND MINIMUM EXIT REQUIREMENTS ACCORDING TO


USE OF OCCUPANCY
USE
MINIMUM OF TWO EXITS ARE REQUIRED WHERE NUMBER OF
OCCUPANTS IS AT LEAST
OCCUPANT LOAD FACTOR (SQ. FT PER OCCUPANT)

1. Aircraft Hangers (No repair)


10
500

2. Auction Rooms
30
7

3. Assembly areas, concentrated use (without fixed seats)

Auditoriums

Bowling Alleys (Assembly areas)

Churches and Chapels

Dance Floors

Lobbies, Foyers

Lodge Rooms

Reviewing Stands

Stadiums
50
7

4. Assembly areas, less concentrated use

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

10. Hospitals, Sanitariums and Nursing Homes


6
80

11. Hotels and Apartments


10
200

12. Kitchens – Commercial


30
200

13. Library Reading Rooms


50
50

14. Locker Rooms


30
50

15. Mechanical Equipment Rooms


30
300

16. Nurseries for Children (Day Care)


7
35

17. Offices
30
100

18. School Shops and Vocational Rooms


50
50

19. Skating Rinks


50
50 on the skating area; 15 on the deck

20. Stores-Retail Sales

Rooms:

Basement

Ground Floor

Upper Floors
7

50

10
20

30

50

21. Swimming Pools


50
50 for the pool area; 15 on the deck

22. Warehouses
30
300

23. All others


50
100
NOTE:

1. Elevators shall not be construed as providing a required exit.

2. This table shall not be used to determine working space requirements per person.

SEC. 57.33.07. EXIT DOORS.

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:

1. Any assembly occupancy.

2. Any hazardous area or Group H Occupancy.

3. Any building or portion of a building with an occupant load of 50 or more.

C. Double-acting Doors: Double-acting doors shall not be used as exits when any of
the following conditions exist:

1. The occupant load served by the door is 100 or more.

2. The door is part of a fire assembly.

3. The door is part of a smoke and draft-control assembly.

4. Panic hardware is required or provided on the door.

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:

Power operated doors conforming to Title 24, C.A.C.

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.

I. Obstruction: No person shall wedge, block, chain, obstruct, or otherwise cause or


allow the impairment of the operation of any exit door.

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.

SEC. 57.33.08. LOCKS ON PENTHOUSE DOORS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)


No person shall install, maintain, or use any lock or latch on any door providing
access from a penthouse or stairway to the roof of a building except a lock or latch which
is openable from the inside without the use of a key, tool, or special knowledge or effort,
as determined 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.

SEC. 57.33.09. EXIT STAIRWAYS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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:

Approved barriers provided at the ground-floor level to prevent persons from


accidentally continuing into the basement or below ground level.

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.

SEC. 57.33.10. PANIC HARDWARE.

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.

SEC. 57.33.11. OBSTRUCTION OF EXITS AND AISLES.

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.

C. An exit walkway with a minimum width of 44 inches shall be maintained


continuously to a public way.

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.

F. No person shall store or maintain any hazardous material, or other material of


any kind, adjacent to any exit in a manner which would obstruct the exit or elevator, or
render egress hazardous in case of fire or any other emergency.

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.

SEC. 57.33.12. ELIMINATION OF EXIT DOORWAYS.

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).

SEC. 57.33.13. USE OF EXIT WAYS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

No part of a stairway, whether interior or exterior, nor of a smoke-proof enclosure,


hallway, corridor, vestibule, balcony, or bridge leading to a stairway or exit of any kind,
shall be used in any way that will obstruct its use as an exit or that will present a fire
hazard.

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.

SEC. 57.33.14. FIRE ESCAPES.

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.

B. Access to fire escapes shall be any one of the following:

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.)

SEC. 57.33.15. EXIT SIGNS AND DIRECTIONAL EXIT SIGNS.

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:

1. Dwellings units in Group R, Division 1 Occupancies.

2. Group R, Division 3 Occupancies.

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:

a. Group A, B, and E Occupancies with an occupant load of 300 or more persons.


b. Group H and R, Division 1 Occupancies with an occupant load of 101 or more
persons.

c. Group D and Ioccupancies with an occupant load of 50 or more persons.

2. Illumination shall normally be provided by the premises wiring system. In the


event of failure of this system, illumination shall be automatically provided from an
emergency system in accordance with Title 19 and 24, C.A.C., when applicable, or
Chapter 9, L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

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.

E. Announcement of Exits and Posting of Emergency Exit Plans in Assemblage


Occupancies (50 or more): (Amended by Ord. No. 175,429, Eff. 9/28/03.)

1. Announcement of Exit Locations:

(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.

2. Posting of an Emergency Exit Plan. These occupancies will be required to post


an emergency exit floor plan on a diagram demonstrating a person’s present location
(i.e., “You Are Here”), exit locations and locations of exit corridors. These plans must be
posted in the restrooms, main lobby areas adjacent to food and gift venues, entrances and
other areas where the public congregates.

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.)

SEC. 57.33.16. EXIT PATH LIGHTING.

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.)

SEC. 57.33.17. STAIRWAY IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM.

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.

B. Stairway identification signs shall conform to the following specifications:

1. Sign shall be square in shape with a minimum dimension of 12 inches.

2. Numbers and letters on the sign shall be of a block style on a contrasting


background.

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.

5. Signs shall be durable and installed or applied in a permanent manner on the


stairshaft wall adjacent to the stairshaft door in a location which is clearly visible whether
the door is in the open or closed position.

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.)

SEC. 57.33.18. EXIT AISLES AND SEATING ARRANGEMENTS.

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.

2. Distances to Nearest Exit. In areas occupied by seats and in Group A


Occupancies without seats, the line of travel to an exit door by an aisle shall be not more
than 150 feet. Such travel distance may be increased to 200 feet if the building is
provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
3. Cross Aisles. Aisles shall terminate in a cross aisle, foyer, or exit. The width of
the cross aisle shall be not less than the sum of the required width of the widest aisle, plus
50 percent of the total required width of the remaining aisles leading thereto. Aisles shall
not provide a dead end greater than 20 feet in length.

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.

2. Every chair shall be within 20 feet of an aisle.

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.

3. For the purpose of taking measurements of drawing plans, the back of an


occupied chair shall be assumed to be a minimum of 18 inches from the table seating
edge.

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.

SEC. 57.33.19. EMERGENCY PLANNING AND EVACUATION REQUIREMENTS


FOR HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS.

A. Every new and existing high-rise building owner, manager, operator,


administrator, and tenant, in cooperation with the Fire Department, shall establish,
implement, and maintain an emergency plan on file for the building which shall include,
but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

1. Fire Safety Director: Assignment of a responsible person as Fire Safety Director


who shall work with the Department in the establishment, implementation, and
maintenance of the emergency plan. The person shall be employed or reside on the
premises or be otherwise approved by the Department.

2. Occupant Instruction: All high-rise building occupants shall be instructed


annually on the procedures to be followed in the event of fire, earthquake, or other
emergency. Documentation of occupant instruction shall be maintained by the Fire Safety
Director and shall be available for inspection by the Chief. Instruction of all new
occupants shall occur within 14 days of their assuming occupancy in the building.

3. Floor Warden: A responsible person on each floor of every high-rise building


shall be designated as Floor Warden. In cooperation with the Fire Safety Director, Floor
Wardens shall oversee and ensure safe and complete evacuation or relocation of
occupants during a fire or other emergency, or a fire drill. Alternate Floor Wardens shall
be designated for each floor and shall assume Floor Warden duties when necessary.
Exemptions to this regulation may be granted only upon a written request approved by
the Chief.

4. Emergency Evacuation Sign: The preparation of emergency exit plans,


procedures, and evacuation signs shall be approved by the Department before posting.
Evacuation signs shall be located in every elevator lobby above and below the ground
floor and in other conspicuous floor locations as required by the Department. Each
dwelling unit, guest room, and office area shall be provided with the fire safety and
evacuation information, as required in Section 57.112.05 of this article. All plans,
procedures and signs shall be properly maintained.

B. Fire Department Approval: All emergency plans, procedures, and evacuation


signs must be submitted to the Fire Safety Education Unit of the Fire Department for
inspection and approval prior to their implementation. All plans, signs, procedures or
training programs formulated by, or purchased from a “High-rise Life/Safety Service”
shall also be submitted for approval. All persons engaging in the business of “High-rise
Life/Safety Service” shall be required to obtain a Certificate of Fitness in accordance
with Division 6 of this article. The Department may deny approval of any “High-rise
Life/Safety Service” which fails to meet minimum standards set by the Chief.

C. Fire Drills: A minimum of one fire drill annually on individual floors is


mandatory. Total building evacuation is not required. Documentation of all fire drills on
Fire Department approved forms shall be maintained by the Fire Safety Director. Fire
drills may be scheduled in advance, with a notice posted to all tenants. All building
occupants are required to participate in the fire drills. Buildings that have stairshaft doors
locked for security reasons shall include in the evacuation plan provisions that will allow
safe horizontal egress from the stairshaft during a drill or emergency evacuation.

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.

57.38.04 Markings on Tank Vehicles.

57.38.05 Attendant.

57.38.06 Chock Blocks and Parking Brake.

57.38.07 Cargo Temperature.

57.38.08 Loading and Unloading.

57.38.09 Location While Loading or Unloading.

57.38.10 Interconnection of Vehicles.

57.38.11 Protection Against Intermixing.

57.38.12 Parking and Garaging.

57.38.13 Repair.

57.38.14 Smoking.

57.38.15 Portable Fire Extinguishers.

Auxiliary Engines, Generators, and Motors

57.38.16 Auxiliary Engines for Tank Vehicles.

57.38.17 Electric Motors and Generators.

Tank Cars
57.38.18 General Requirements.

57.38.19 Prohibitions.

57.38.20 Time Limit.

57.38.21 Unloading Procedure.

Asphalt Tank Vehicles

57.38.22 Asphalt Tank Vehicles.

Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles

57.38.23 Construction of Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles.

57.38.24 Operation, Maintenance, and Use of Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles.

57.38.25 Loading and Unloading.

57.38.26 Positioning of Aircraft Fuel Servicing Tank Vehicles.

57.38.27 Fueling and Defueling.

57.38.28 Bonding and Grounding.

57.38.29 Qualified Operator.

57.38.30 Fuel Transfer Hose.

57.38.31 Maintenance.

57.38.32 Loading Passengers.

57.38.33 Repair.

57.38.34 Fueling of Aircraft at Terminals.

57.38.35 Smoking and Open Flame.

57.38.36 Electrical Devices and Motors.

SEC. 57.38.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.38.02. CARGO TANK CONSTRUCTION FOR TRANSPORTING CLASS I,


II, OR III LIQUIDS AT TEMPERATURES AT OR ABOVE THEIR BOILING
POINTS.

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.

SEC. 57.38.03. CARGO TANK CONSTRUCTION FOR TRANSPORTING CLASS I,


II, OR III LIQUIDS AT TEMPERATURES BELOW THEIR BOILING POINTS.

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.

SEC. 57.38.04. MARKINGS ON TANK VEHICLES.

A. Warning Placards: Unless otherwise specifically provided for by this division, or


otherwise specifically provided for by State Law or Regulations promulgated thereunder,
the transportation of flammable or combustible liquids, including the posting of warning
placards, shall comply with all requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25. Such
requirements shall be applicable to both highway and non-highway use vehicles.

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.

b. Manufacturer’s serial number.

c. Date of manufacture.

d. Capacity of tank shell in U.S. gallons. If compartmented, capacity of each


compartment.

e. Design pressure of tank (18 psia to 40 psia).

f. Test pressure of tank (18 psia to 40 psia).

g. Thickness of head and material.

h. Thickness of shell and material.

i. Specification Identification D.O.T. MC306, MC307 or MC312.

SEC. 57.38.05. ATTENDANT.

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.

SEC. 57.38.06. CHOCK BLOCKS AND PARKING BRAKE.

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.

SEC. 57.38.07. CARGO TEMPERATURE.


A. Liquid Temperature: Tank vehicles shall not be operated with a cargo
temperature above the maximum allowable temperature as specified by the manufacturer
of the cargo tank. This maximum allowable cargo temperature shall be on a metal
warning plate not subject to corrosion and located in a conspicuous place on the right side
near the front. Such plate shall be permanently affixed to the tank or tank frame, and shall
state, in letters at least one-half inch high by stamping, embossing, or other
means, “MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CARGO TEMPERATURE IS _____°F.”

B. Temperature-Indicating Device: Any cargo tank designed or intended for


transporting products at liquid temperatures above ambient temperatures shall be
provided with a temperature-indicating device in a place readily accessible for reading.

SEC. 57.38.08. LOADING AND UNLOADING.

A. Transferring of liquids: Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be


transferred from any tank vehicle except into aircraft fuel tanks, approved atmospheric
tanks, or portable tanks and carboys.

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.

2. The tank vehicles are approved by the Department.

3. The tank vehicle’s specific function is that of supplying fuel to fuel tanks.

4. The dispensing hose does not exceed 50 feet in length.

5. The dispensing nozzle is an approved automatic closing type.

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.

C. Approved Transfer Apparatus: Transfer apparatus on tank vehicles shall be of


an approved type. Permits for tank vehicles which are equipped with transfer apparatus,
or for a transfer apparatus used in connection with a tank vehicle, shall specifically state
the scope and extent of usage of such transfer apparatus, and in no event shall the
apparatus be used for any purpose other than that described in the Permit.
D. Bonding: All tank vehicles loading or unloading Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall
at all times be electrically bonded to the fm pipe from the loading rack or to the fill pipe
of the tank to which it is filling. Dome covers shall be opened or closed only when
bonding wire or cable is properly attached.

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.

F. Outage: A cargo tank or compartment thereof used for the transportation of


flammable liquids, combustible liquids, or asphalt shall not be loaded liquid full. Tanks
or compartments shall have outage (vacant space) of not less than 1% of total tank
volume when filled.

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.

SEC. 57.38.09. LOCATION WHILE LOADING OR UNLOADING.

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.

C. Whenever practicable, tank vehicles being unloaded into tanks shall be so


positioned that the operating controls and unloading end of the hose are both in view of
the operator.

D. Tank vehicles shall be loaded at an approved bulk distributing station.

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.

SEC. 57.38.10. INTERCONNECTION OF VEHICLES.

A. No tank vehicle used for transporting flammable or combustible liquids shall be


connected with a vehicle transporting any other material unless specifically approved by
the Chief.

B. Tank vehicles and tank trailers shall not be interconnected by a transfer or


discharge hose while in transit.

SEC. 57.38.11. PROTECTION AGAINST INTERMIXING.

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.

C. Tank vehicles transporting Class I liquids in one or more compartments and


Class II or III liquids in another compartment or compartments shall be equipped with
separate piping, pumps, meters, and hoses for each group class of products.

SEC. 57.38.12. PARKING AND GARAGING.

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.

SEC. 57.38.13. REPAIR.

A. A tank vehicle shall not be operated unless it is in good mechanical condition,


devoid of accumulations of grease, oil, or other flammables, and free of leaks.

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.

SEC. 57.38.14. SMOKING.

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.

SEC. 57.38.15. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

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.

AUXILIARY ENGINES, GENERATORS, AND MOTORS

SEC. 57.38.16. AUXILIARY ENGINES FOR TANK VEHICLES.

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.

C. Pumps and other appurtenances carrying or containing flammable liquids shall


be so located in relation to the engine that spillage or leakage from such parts shall be
prevented from coming in contact with the engine or any parts of the ignition and exhaust
system, or adequate shielding shall be provided to attain the same purpose. The engine
cooling fan shall be so positioned, rotated, or shielded as to minimize the possibility of
drawing flammable vapors toward the engine.

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.

SEC. 57.38.17. ELECTRIC MOTORS AND GENERATORS.

Electrical equipment installed or carried upon a tank vehicle transporting Class I


liquids and necessary for the operation of pumps or other devices used for the handling of
the product or operating product-handling accessories shall meet the following
requirements:
A. Power takeoff connected to the vehicle transmission or an auxiliary transmission,
or power takeoff by an auxiliary engine, shall be of a type approved for hazardous
electrical areas.

B. Electric motors shall be of a type approved for hazardous electrical areas.

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.

D. Where the generator or motor is located within an enclosed space, adequate


provision shall be made for air circulation to prevent overheating and the possible
accumulation of explosive vapors.

E. Electrical equipment and wiring shall be located so as to prevent contact with


spillage from cargo tank or side racks, or suitable shielding shall be provided to attain
equivalent protection.

TANK CARS

SEC. 57.38.18. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

Reasonable care shall be exercised in the transfer of Class I, II or IIIA liquids to or


from tank cars so as to prevent fires, explosion, and spills. Compliance with L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 32 shall be considered the minimum required care with respect to the
unloading of Class I, II or IIIA liquids from tank cars.

SEC. 57.38.19. PROHIBITIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.38.20. TIME LIMIT.

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.

SEC. 57.38.21. UNLOADING PROCEDURE.


The use of air pressure is prohibited. Dispensing from tank cars into drums or other
portable containers is prohibited unless facilities have been approved for such operations.
Dispensing from tank cars to tank vehicles shall be done only at approved loading racks.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. When a tank car is disabled through accident or mechanical failure and it is


necessary to remove the cargo at other than an approved loading rack, such cargo may be
transferred to a tank vehicle.

2. When a tank car to tank vehicle unloading operation is performed under Permit
from the Chief pursuant to Division 5 of this article.

ASPHALT TANK VEHICLES

SEC. 57.38.22. ASPHALT TANK VEHICLES.

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.

C. Piping above grade:

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.

AIRCRAFT FUEL SERVICING TANK VEHICLES

SEC. 57.38.23. CONSTRUCTION OF AIRCRAFT FUEL SERVICING TANK


VEHICLES.

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.

C. Mechanical repairs outside of H-4 Occupancies on such vehicles shall be done


only at approved locations.

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.

SEC. 57.38.25. LOADING AND UNLOADING.

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.

SEC. 57.38.26. POSITIONING OF AIRCRAFT FUEL SERVICING TANK


VEHICLES.
A. Aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles shall be positioned so that they can be
moved promptly after all aircraft fuel hoses have been disconnected and stowed.

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.

SEC. 57.38.27. FUELING AND DEFUELING.

A. During fuel transfer operations, a qualified person shall be in control of each


transfer nozzle to shut off or otherwise control the flow of fuel from the time fueling
operations are begun until they are completed.

B. Bonding and Grounding: (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

2. Overwing fueling 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.

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.

A. Every transfer apparatus shall be metallically interconnected with the tank,


chassis, axles, and springs of every aircraft refueler unit.

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.

SEC. 57.38.29. QUALIFIED OPERATOR.

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.

SEC. 57.38.30. FUEL TRANSFER HOSE.

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.

B. Servicing Hose/Brake Interlock: Aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicles having


provision for underwing fuel servicing shall have a system or device which will prevent
the vehicle from being moved unless all fuel lines are disconnected from the aircraft and
stowed properly on the vehicle.

SEC. 57.38.31. MAINTENANCE.

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.

SEC. 57.38.32. LOADING PASSENGERS.


Passengers may be loaded aboard an aircraft during the time fuel transfer operations
are in progress provided the following provisions are strictly enforced by the owner of
such aircraft or the owner’s authorized employee.

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.

SEC. 57.38.33. REPAIR.

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.

SEC. 57.38.34. FUELING OF AIRCRAFT AT TERMINALS.

No aircraft fuel servicing tank vehicle shall be parked, stored, repaired, or operated
within 50 feet of any building.

SEC. 57.38.35. SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME.

No person shall smoke or produce any open flame within 50 feet of any point where
fuel is being transferred.

SEC. 57.38.36. ELECTRICAL DEVICES AND MOTORS.

No electrical or motor driven device shall be connected to or disconnected from any


aircraft at any time fueling operations are in progress on such aircraft.
DIVISION 39
PIPING, VALVES AND FITTINGS

Section

57.39.01 Scope.

57.39.02 Definitions.

Materials and Design

57.39.10 General Requirements.

57.39.11 Restricted Materials – Temperature or Pressure.

57.39.12 Restricted Materials – Fire Exposure.

57.39.14 Restricted Methods of Fabrication – Fire Exposure.

57.39.15 Gravity Distribution.

57.39.16 General Requirements For Secondary Containment.

57.39.17 New Facility Underground Piping Monitoring And Secondary Containment.

57.39.18 Existing Facility Underground Piping Monitoring And Secondary


Containment.

57.39.19 Corrosion Protection.

57.39.20 Installation of Piping Systems.

57.39.21 Valves.

57.39.22 Valves at Tank.

57.39.23 Valves at Dike.

57.39.24 Outlet Valves.

57.39.25 Hazardous Materials Storage Tanks Inside Buildings.

57.39.30 Transferring by Pumps.

57.39.31 Underground Piping.


57.39.32 Controls, Meters, and Gauges.

57.39.33 Liquid Level and Temperature Control.

57.39.34 Glass Gauges.

57.39.35 Electrical Equipment.

SEC. 57.39.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

B. The provisions of this division do not apply to any of the following:

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.

6. Instrument piping of one-half inch or smaller nominal diameter.

SEC. 57.39.02. DEFINITIONS.

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:

Fitting – Any valve, coupling, connector, flange, union or similar equipment.

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.

Pipe – Any pipe or tubing.

MATERIALS AND DESIGN

SEC. 57.39.10. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

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.

B. Steel or materials having equivalent fire resistant characteristics shall be used in


systems designed to operate at pressures in excess of 300 psig when the system is used to
transfer flammable or toxic materials or when the system is subjected to fire exposure
likely to induce failure by imposing stresses exceeding design limits of the system.

SEC. 57.39.11. RESTRICTED MATERIALS – TEMPERATURE OR PRESSURE.

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.

SEC. 57.39.12. RESTRICTED MATERIALS – FIRE EXPOSURE.

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.

A. Cast iron pipe and fittings.

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.

B. Plastic pipe and fittings.

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.

SEC. 57.39.14. RESTRICTED METHODS OF FABRICATION – FIRE EXPOSURE.

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.

SEC. 57.39.15. GRAVITY DISTRIBUTION.


A. Gravity distribution systems are prohibited unless specifically 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.

SEC. 57.39.16. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SECONDARY CONTAINMENT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

Secondary containment shall be:

A. Structurally and volumetrically capable of containing a release from the primary


piping for the maximum anticipated period of time necessary for the safe recovery of any
released hazardous substance.

B. Capable of directing any release to a monitoring device which is capable of


detecting an unauthorized release.

C. Compatible with the commodity to be handled by the primary piping.

D. Capable of being integrity (performance) tested.

E. Nationally recognized laboratory listed and have a L.A.F.D. Equipment


Approval.

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.

SEC. 57.39.17. NEW FACILITY UNDERGROUND PIPING MONITORING AND


SECONDARY CONTAINMENT.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

A. Suction delivery systems shall be provided with secondary containment, and be


provided with an approved monitoring system for the piping, or be installed according to
Sec. 57.31.45.
B. Pressure delivery systems shall be provided with secondary containment, and be
provided with an approved monitoring system for the piping, or be installed according to
Sec. 57.31.46.

SEC. 57.39.18. EXISTING FACILITY UNDERGROUND PIPING MONITORING


AND SECONDARY CONTAINMENT.

(Title and Section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.39.19. CORROSION PROTECTION.

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:

1. Through the use of an engineered, properly installed and maintained cathodic


protection system.

2. Through the use of approved corrosion-resistant materials of construction such as


special alloys, nonmetallics, reinforced plastic coatings, composites, or equivalent
systems.

B. Dissimilar metallic parts which promote galvanic action shall not be joined
together.

SEC. 57.39.20. INSTALLATION OF PIPING SYSTEMS.

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.

E. A hazardous substance contained in aboveground piping shall be clearly


identified by chemical name at intervals of not more than 20 feet and at least once in each
room and each story traversed by the piping system.

SEC. 57.39.21. VALVES.

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.

SEC. 57.39.22. VALVES AT TANK.

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.

SEC. 57.39.23. VALVES AT DIKE.

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.

SEC. 57.39.24. OUTLET VALVES.

Each connection to a tank through which liquid can normally flow shall be provided
with an internal or external valve.

SEC. 57.39.25. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS STORAGE TANKS INSIDE


BUILDINGS.

Tanks for the storage of hazardous materials in liquid form inside buildings shall be
provided with either:

A. A normally closed remotely-activated valve.

B. An automatic-closing heat-activated valve.

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.

A. The transfer of flammable or combustible liquids shall be through piping by


means of approved pumps, inert gas, or water displacement. Except as required in process
equipment, gravity flow shall not be used. The use of compressed air as a transferring
medium shall be prohibited.

B. Pumps shall be of a type approved for pressure, temperature, and compatibility


of materials transferred.

C. Positive displacement pumps shall be provided with pressure relief discharging


back to the tank or to pump suction.

D. Equipment shall be designed and arranged to prevent the unintentional escape of


liquids and vapors and to minimize the quantity escaping in the event of an accidental
release.

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.

SEC. 57.39.31. UNDERGROUND PIPING.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. All underground piping in connection with underground tanks shall comply with
the following:

1. Piping shall lead out of the top.

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.

3. Piping shall be equipped with means for disconnection.

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.

B. Approved methods and equipment for metering include:

1. Volumetric meter of approved type.

2. A metering form of pump operating either manually or automatically.

3. Closed-system measuring tank.

4. Closed-system weighing tank.

SEC. 57.39.33. LIQUID LEVEL AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL.

Liquid level and temperature limit controls are required where necessary, as follows:

A. To avoid lowering liquid level to a point where residues may be overheated.

B. To provide automatic control of the temperature of the liquid.

SEC. 57.39.34. GLASS GAUGES.

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.

SEC. 57.39.35. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.

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.

57.40.02 Approval of Devices.

57.40.03 Gasholder Construction.

Location of Gasholders

57.40.10 Outside Buildings.

57.40.11 Separations.

57.40.12 Special Occupancies.

57.40.13 Open Flames.

57.40.14 Security Fence.

Operation and Maintenance of Gasholders

57.40.20 General Maintenance.

57.40.21 Gasholder Fully Inflated.

57.40.22 Supervision.

57.40.23 Purging of Gasholders.

57.40.24 Weeds, Grass, and Hazardous Refuse.

57.40.25 Annual Inspection.

57.40.26 Ten-year Inspection.

57.40.27 Warning Placards.

SEC. 57.40.01. SCOPE.

A. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) In addition to all other


applicable portions of this article, the provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No.
68 shall regulate the design, construction, location, installation, and operation of
gasholders used for the storage of:

1. Flammable gases;

2. Toxic gases;

3. Oxidizing gases; or

4. Gases used for fire or explosion prevention.

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.

SEC. 57.40.02. APPROVAL OF DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.40.03. GASHOLDER CONSTRUCTION.

The construction of gasholders shall comply with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 38.

LOCATION OF GASHOLDERS

SEC. 57.40.10. OUTSIDE BUILDINGS.

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.

SEC. 57.40.11. SEPARATIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.40.12. SPECIAL OCCUPANCIES.


No gasholder used for the storage of a flammable or toxic gas shall be located within
200 feet of any building housing an educational, institutional, or assembly occupancy.

SEC. 57.40.13. OPEN FLAMES.

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 FOR GASHOLDERS CONTAINING FLAMMABLE,


TOXIC OR OXIDIZING GASES

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 streets, alleys, or public ways


1 1/2 diameter of gasholder
5 feet
25 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

SEC. 57.40.14. SECURITY FENCE.

Every gasholder, aboveground piping, and fittings adjacent thereto shall be properly
surrounded by adequate fencing and gates that will prevent access by unauthorized
persons.

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF GASHOLDERS

SEC. 57.40.20. GENERAL MAINTENANCE.

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.

SEC. 57.40.22. SUPERVISION.

The operation and maintenance of all gasholders shall be under the supervision of
qualified persons designated by the responsible operating official.

SEC. 57.40.23. PURGING OF GASHOLDERS.

A. Before work is performed on any gasholder which contains flammable or toxic


gas, such as removing from service for internal inspection, internal repairs, or
dismantling, all inlet and outlet gas connecting piping except those opening to the
atmosphere, shall be physically removed or properly blanked off and the vessels purged.
The closing of inlet and outlet valves is not compliance herewith.

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.

SEC. 57.40.24. WEEDS, GRASS, AND HAZARDOUS REFUSE.

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.

SEC. 57.40.25. ANNUAL INSPECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.40.26. TEN-YEAR INSPECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.40.27. WARNING PLACARDS.

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.

57.41.03 Approval of Devices.

57.41.04 Construction – Portable Containers.

57.41.05 Empty Containers.

57.41.06 Vaporizers.

Piping, Valves and Fittings

57.41.10 Piping.

57.41.11 Shut-off Valves.

57.41.12 Special Requirements for Liquefied Materials.

57.41.13 Safety Relief Valve.

57.41.14 Station Outlets.

57.41.15 Protection of Portable Pressure Vessel Accessories.

57.41.16 Hose and Hose Connections.

Manifolding of Portable Containers

57.41.20 Manifold Construction.

57.41.21 Manifold Accessories.

57.41.22 Location of Manifolds.

57.41.24 Maintenance.

Location of Portable Containers

57.41.30 General Requirements.


57.41.31 Location Within Buildings.

57.41.32 Location Outside Building.

57.41.33 Skid Tanks.

57.41.34 Warning Placards and Signs.

Filling of Portable Containers

57.41.40 General Requirements.

57.41.41 Filling Limits.

57.41.42 Noncompatible Materials.

57.41.43 Methods of Filling.

57.41.44 Exemption to Certain Applications.

SEC. 57.41.01. SCOPE.

A. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) In addition to all other


applicable portions of this article, the provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No.
68 shall regulate the design, construction, location, installation and operation of portable
containers used for the storage of liquid or gaseous:

1. Flammable materials;

2. Toxic materials;

3. Oxidizing materials; or

4. Gases used for fire or explosion prevention.

If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.

B. This division shall apply to the following:

1. The storage of gaseous materials at ambient temperatures, and pressures in


excess of 0.5 psig; or

2. The storage of liquid materials or liquefied materials at ambient temperatures and


at pressures in excess of 0.5 psig.
SEC. 57.41.02. DEFINITIONS.

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.

System – An assembly of any equipment consisting of the container or containers,


appurtenances, pumps, compressors, and connecting piping.

SEC. 57.41.03. APPROVAL OF DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.41.04. CONSTRUCTION – PORTABLE CONTAINERS.

Portable containers shall be designed, constructed, tested and maintained in


accordance with:

A. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26;

B. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19, or

C. Other design specifications approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.41.05. EMPTY CONTAINERS.

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.

SEC. 57.41.06. VAPORIZERS.

Vaporizers for liquid or liquefied materials shall comply with the requirements set
forth in Division 42 of this article.
PIPING, VALVES AND FITTINGS

SEC. 57.41.10. PIPING.

Piping shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Division 39 of this


article.

SEC. 57.41.11. SHUT-OFF VALVES.

All connections to portable containers shall have manually operated shut-off valves
located as close to the vessel as practicable except:

1. Safety relief connections and plugged openings.

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.

SEC. 57.41.12. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LIQUEFIED MATERIALS.

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.

SEC. 57.41.13. SAFETY RELIEF VALVE.

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. Unless otherwise permitted by Subsection A of this section, fusible plugs or


rupture discs shall not be permitted for containers used for the storage of liquefied
materials.

SEC. 57.41.14. STATION OUTLETS.


A. Every use outlet shall be provided with approved shut-off valves.

B. Use outlets for flammable gases used in conjunction with oxygen or other similar
oxidizing material shall be provided with one of the following:

1. A hydraulic back-flow check valve;

2. A mechanical back-flow check valve; or

3. A pressure reducing regulator.

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.

SEC. 57.41.15. PROTECTION OF PORTABLE PRESSURE VESSEL


ACCESSORIES.

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.

SEC. 57.41.16. HOSE AND HOSE CONNECTIONS.

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.

C. Hose connections shall be clamped or otherwise securely fastened in a manner


that will withstand, without leakage, two times the pressure to which they are normally
subjected in service.

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.

MANIFOLDING OF PORTABLE CONTAINERS

SEC. 57.41.20. MANIFOLD CONSTRUCTION.

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.

C. Manifolds shall be rigid, well supported, and shall be adequately protected


against injury.

D. Stationary manifolds shall be tested and shall be gas tight at the pressure at
which the manifold will be operated.

E. Portable containers connected to a manifold shall be set on a firm, non-


combustible foundation. Noncombustible supports shall be provided for securing
cylinders against excessive movement or overturning which might damage piping or
connections.

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.

SEC. 57.41.21. MANIFOLD ACCESSORIES.

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.

B. Pressure regulators shall be provided at the point where service piping is


connected to the manifold, and at station outlets where required for further reduction of
pressure.
C. Every manifold containing liquefied gases shall be provided with a pressure
relief valve. Every manifold containing nonliquefied gases shall have a pressure relief
valve on the reduced pressure side.

D. Relief valves on manifolds containing flammable or toxic materials shall be


equipped with vent lines of cross-sectional area at least equal to that of the relief valve
and such vent lines shall extend out-of-doors to a safe location at least two feet above any
roof within ten feet and at least ten feet above the adjacent grade level.

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

SEC. 57.41.22. LOCATION OF MANIFOLDS.

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.

A. Every manifold within a building having a capacity exceeding the amounts


shown in Table 41-A, but not exceeding two times the amounts shown in Table 41-A,
shall be located in a Hazardous Materials Room or as provided in Subsection C of this
section.

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:

1. Manifolds may be located adjacent to buildings having walls or approved barriers


which are noncombustible or which have a fire-resistive rating of not less than one hour.

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.

SEC. 57.41.24. MAINTENANCE.

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.

LOCATION OF PORTABLE CONTAINERS

SEC. 57.41.30. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

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.

C. Flammable gases, liquefied flammable gases, flammable and combustible


liquids, oxidizing materials and noncompatible materials shall be stored in individually
designated areas.

D. Oil, grease or other oxidizable materials shall be kept away from oxygen
cylinders.

E. Portable containers of flammable materials may be used on any public street,


alley, or public way in connection with public utility, public works projects, or for the
heating of approved roofing kettles, provided such cylinders or portable pressure vessels
are adequately protected against excessive temperatures or physical damage in a manner
approved by the Chief. Such portable containers shall not be located in any pit or
excavation, nor within 25 feet of any building opening or exit.

SEC. 57.41.31. LOCATION WITHIN BUILDINGS.

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.

A. Portable containers having an aggregate capacity exceeding the amounts set


forth in Table 41-A shall be located in a Hazardous Materials Room or a room having an
H-1, H-2, or H-3 occupancy classification. Hazardous Materials Rooms shall be provided
with either a gravity or mechanical exhaust ventilation system in accordance with
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building and Mechanical Code).

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.

SEC. 57.41.32. LOCATION OUTSIDE BUILDING.

A. Portable containers of hazardous materials which are stored or used outside of


buildings shall be located in the same manner as set forth in Section 57.41.22,
Subsections D and E for manifolds.

B. Portable containers containing hazardous materials having an aggregate capacity


in excess of the amounts shown in Table 41-A shall be within a fenced enclosure which is
secured against unauthorized entry. Warning placards conforming to L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted on the fenced enclosure.

SEC. 57.41.33. SKID TANKS.

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.

C. Where impact by trucks, trailers, or other mechanical equipment is possible or


likely, skid tanks being used as storage vessels shall be protected by suitable fences or
posts and railings. When such vessels are in a location where they may be tampered with
by unauthorized persons, they shall be surrounded by a rugged steel wire fence or
equivalent protection.

D. Fittings on every skid tank shall be in a recessed enclosure, or if on the shell or


head, fittings shall be adequately guarded by a heavy steel guard.

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.

SEC. 57.41.34. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Warning placards shall be required whenever portable containers containing


flammable materials, oxidizing materials or toxic materials are being stored, processed,
or used in quantities requiring a Permit under Division 4 of this article. Such placards
shall be designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 and shall be
conspicuously posted in the following locations:

1. At an entrance to any building where portable containers containing such


materials 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 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.

FILLING OF PORTABLE CONTAINERS

SEC. 57.41.40. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

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.

C. The transferring or dispensing of materials from a tank truck to a portable


container on any public street, sidewalk, alley or public way, is prohibited.

D. A qualified attendant or operator shall be in constant attendance at the transfer


connections between a transportation tank truck, containing hazardous materials, and the
portable vessels to be filled, from the time connections are made until connections are
finally broken.

E. The transferring or dispensing of materials from one portable container to


another is prohibited.

SEC. 57.41.41. FILLING LIMITS.

A. Portable containers constructed in accordance with specifications of the D.O.T.


shall be filled in accordance with D.O.T. regulations or other approved methods.

B. Portable containers constructed in compliance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19


shall be filled in accordance with the following:

1. No liquid or liquefied material shall be charged into a portable container unless


the design pressure of the container equals or exceeds the vapor pressure (in psig) of the
material at 115° F.

2. No gaseous material shall be charged into a portable container at a pressure in


excess of the design pressure. When the gas temperature is less than 130° F., the charging
pressure must be such that the design pressure will not be exceeded at a gas temperature
of 130° F.

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.

SEC. 57.41.42. NONCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS.

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.

SEC. 57.41.43. METHODS OF FILLING.

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.

B. When artificial cooling of portable containers to reduce pressure below that at


normal temperature for the purpose of filling is utilized, the quantity placed in any
portable container shall be checked by weight. Venting vapors to atmosphere is
prohibited except through approved gauging devices.

SEC. 57.41.44. EXEMPTION TO CERTAIN APPLICATIONS.

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.

57.42.03 Approval of Devices.

57.42.04 Container Construction.

57.42.05 Design Pressure.

57.42.06 Container Capacity.

57.42.07 Warning Placards and Signs.

Location and Installation of Storage Containers

57.42.10 Location of Aboveground Storage in Stationary Containers.

57.42.11 Separation Between Stationary Containers (Other Than in Processing


Service).

57.42.12 Grouping of Containers.

57.42.14 Installation of Aboveground Containers.

57.42.15 Installation of Underground Storage Containers.

57.42.16 Collision Barriers and Security Fences.

57.42.17 Clearance of Combustibles.

Valves, Fittings and Accessories

57.42.20 Shut-off Valves.

57.42.21 Special Requirements for Liquefied Materials.

57.42.22 Pressure Relief Devices.


57.42.23 Vacuum Relief Devices.

57.42.24 Pressure Gauges.

57.42.25 Filling Terminals.

Vaporizers for Liquid Materials

57.42.30 Vaporizers – General.

57.42.31 Indirect Fired Vaporizers.

57.42.32 Direct Fired Vaporizers.

Operation of Containers

57.42.40 Filling Limits.

57.42.41 Noncompatible Materials.

57.42.42 Operations of Process Vessels.

GENERAL

SEC. 57.42.01. SCOPE

A. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) In addition to all other


applicable portions of this article, the provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No.
68 shall regulate the design, construction, location, installation, and operation of
stationary containers used for the storage of liquid or gaseous:

1. Flammable materials;

2. Toxic materials;

3. Oxidizing materials; or

4. Gases used for fire or explosion prevention.

If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply.

B. This division shall apply to the following:

1. The storage of liquid materials or liquefied materials at ambient temperatures and


at pressures in excess of 0.5 psig; or,
2. The storage of gaseous materials at ambient temperatures and pressures in excess
of 0.5 psig.

EXCEPTION:

The storage of gaseous materials in gasholders regulated by Division 40.

SEC. 57.42.02. DEFINITIONS.

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.

Volume/Surface Ratio – The Volume/Surface Ratio is the volumetric capacity of a


container, measured in cubic feet, divided by the surface area of the container, measured
in square feet.

SEC. 57.42.03. APPROVAL OF DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.42.04. CONTAINER CONSTRUCTION.

A. Pressure vessels shall be designed, constructed, tested, and maintained in


accordance with one of the following standards:

1. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19

2. Other design specifications approved by the Building Department.

B. Low pressure tanks shall be designed, constructed, tested, and maintained in


accordance with one of the following standards:

1. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 12


2. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19

3. Other design specifications approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.42.05. DESIGN PRESSURE.

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.

SEC. 57.42.06. CONTAINER CAPACITY.

A. Containers shall not exceed an individual volumetric capacity of 30,000 gallons


and a group of containers shall not exceed an aggregate volumetric capacity of 200,000
gallons except as provided in Subsection B of this section.

B. Containers having an individual volumetric capacity exceeding 30,000 gallons


but not exceeding 200,000 gallons may be located on any of the following premises:

1. Marine Oil Terminals

2. Refineries or Natural Gasoline Plants

3. Other locations approved by the Chief.


SEC. 57.42.07. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. All aboveground stationary containers containing flammable materials, toxic


material, or oxidizing materials shall have warning placards conspicuously posted on at
least two sides thereof. Such placards shall be designed and constructed as specified in
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58.

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.

LOCATION AND INSTALLATION OF STORAGE CONTAINERS

SEC. 57.42.10. LOCATION OF ABOVEGROUND STORAGE IN STATIONARY


CONTAINERS.

Unless otherwise provided in this article, stationary containers located aboveground


and used for storage purposes shall be located in accordance with this section.

A. Pressure vessels shall be located outside of buildings.

B. Stationary containers, either singly or in groups and having an aggregate


capacity not exceeding 200,000 gallons, shall be separated from buildings, adjacent
property lines which may be built upon, streets, alleys, and public ways in accordance
with Table 42-A.

C. Stationary containers, either singly or in groups and having an aggregate


capacity in excess of 200,000 gallons, shall be separated from buildings, adjacent
property lines which may be built upon, streets, alleys, and public ways by distances
which shall be determined in each individual case by the Chief with due regard for
congestion, individual container capacity, total aggregate storage, and fire protection
equipment. In no case shall the distance be less than those set forth in Table 42-A for
stationary containers having a capacity of 200,000 gallons.
TABLE 42-A

MINIMUM SEPARATIONS FOR STATIONARY CONTAINERS

Volumetric Capacity In Gallons


Streets, Alleys, and Public Ways
Buildings1 and Adjacent Property Lines Which may Be Built Upon, and the
Opposite Side of Streets, Alleys, and Public Ways.
Not More Than

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

NOTES TO TABLE 42-A:


1. This separation requirement shall not apply to buildings used exclusively for
processing, vaporization, or handling of stored material.

2. Protected: The distances stated apply when a stationary container or group of


stationary containers are protected with an approved barrier wall, automatic fire
extinguishing system, or insulation. Fire protection equipment or insulation shall be
individually approved by the Chief. A single stationary container of 575 gallons or less
water capacity may be located 10 feet from a building, provided the building is
constructed of solid concrete or masonry materials and there are no openings in the
building within 25 feet of the stationary container.

3. If the aggregate water capacity of a multi-container installation at a consumer site


is greater than 575 gallons, the minimum distance shall comply with the appropriate
portion of this Table, applying the aggregate capacity rather than the capacity per
stationary container. If more than one installation is made, each installation shall be
separated from another installation by at least 25 feet. Minimum distances between
aboveground stationary containers shall not be applied to such installations.

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.

SEC. 57.42.11. SEPARATION BETWEEN STATIONARY CONTAINERS (OTHER


THAN IN PROCESSING SERVICE).

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.

B. Containers having a capacity in excess of 30,000 gallons shall be separated from


every other container, tank or gasholder regulated by this article by a distance not less
than one-fourth of the sum of the diameters (in feet) of the two containers under
consideration, but in no case less than five feet.

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

Less Than 2,000 Gallons


3 Feet

2,000 Gallons to 30,000 Gallons


5 Feet

SEC. 57.42.12. GROUPING OF 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.

2. Single containers having a capacity of more than 100,000 gallons.

SEC. 57.42.14. INSTALLATION OF ABOVEGROUND CONTAINERS.

A. Containers installed aboveground shall be provided with substantial masonry or


noncombustible structural supports so installed as to prevent accidental movement.

B. Structural members providing vertical support for tanks having a capacity


exceeding 600 gallons shall be protected as set forth in Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).

C. Horizontal, aboveground storage containers shall be mounted on saddles in such


a manner as to permit expansion and contraction, not only of the container but also of the
connected piping. Only two such saddles shall be used and every container shall be
supported to prevent the concentration of excessive loads on the supporting portion of the
shell.

SEC. 57.42.15. INSTALLATION OF UNDERGROUND STORAGE CONTAINERS.

A. Storage containers or regulating equipment shall not be buried below ground


unless written approval is first obtained from the Chief.
B. Every storage container installed underground shall be buried not less than six
inches below the surface of the natural grade level except where the container might be
subject to abrasive action or physical damage due to vehicular traffic or other causes in
which case it shall be:

1. Installed not less than two feet below the surface of the natural grade level; or

2. Otherwise protected against physical damage.

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.

F. No pit shall be used or maintained in connection with any underground vessel


which is greater than two feet in depth or contains in excess of 18 cubic feet of space.

G. A collision barrier and a security fence, constructed as provided in Section


57.42.16, shall be installed and maintained to provide a minimum clearance of five feet
from the outer portion of every pit, vaporizer, pump, valve, or pipe riser.

H. All buried containers shall be completely uncovered for an inspection of all


external surfaces at least once every three years. The intervals may be changed at the
discretion of the Chief if a test plate is buried adjacent to the container and shows no
appreciable corrosion on inspection by the Department after three years of service;
provided, however, that every container shall be uncovered at least every 15 years. The
test plates shall be of the same material as the shell of the tank and shall be at least one-
fourth of the container diameter in length and six inches wide, and shall be buried in the
water-washed sand at least as deep as the lowest surface of the container and shall not be
coated. Test plates shall be provided in accordance with the following:

1. Containers 10 feet or less in length, one test plate.


2. Containers more than 10 feet but less than 20 feet in length, two test plates, one
on each side near opposite ends.

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.

SEC. 57.42.16. COLLISION BARRIERS AND SECURITY FENCES.

A. A collision barrier constructed entirely of iron, steel, or concrete shall be


installed to surround stationary containers and shall provide for a minimum clearance of
five feet from the outer edge of containers and their vaporizing equipment. The posts
shall be five feet in length with two feet below ground and encased in concrete. The posts
shall be no less than four inches in diameter and filled with concrete. The posts shall be
spaced a maximum of five feet apart with no openings for access greater than two feet
wide. The upright posts shall be equipped with two horizontal guard rails of two-inch
diameter iron pipe installed at a height of 15 inches and 30 inches, respectively, above
grade. The upright posts and guard rails shall be the equivalent strength of schedule 40
iron pipe. When barrier walls are used as collision protection, they shall be made of solid
concrete or concrete block construction at least eight inches wide and solidly filled with
concrete and steel reinforcing bar in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code) for retaining walls. Where heavy vehicular traffic presents a greater
hazard due to size and weight, the required size of the upright posts may be increased to
that of six-inch schedule 40 iron pipe.

B. Containers, vaporizing equipment, and piping in connection therewith shall be


enclosed by a six foot noncombustible fence located not less than five feet from such
container and vaporizing equipment. Posts for such fence shall be set in concrete spaced
not more than 10 feet apart with corner posts firmly braced. Openings in such fence shall
be protected with a substantial iron or steel gate not less than six feet in height.

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.

SEC. 57.42.17. CLEARANCE OF COMBUSTIBLES.


All ground area within a 10-foot radius of any stationary container shall be maintained
free of all weeds, dry vegetation, hazardous refuse, or other combustible materials.

VALVES, FITTINGS, AND ACCESSORIES

SEC. 57.42.20. SHUT-OFF VALVES.

All connections to containers shall have manually operated shut-off valves located as
close to the container as practicable.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Safety relief connections and plugged openings.

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.

5. Vapor connections not exceeding one and one-fourth inches in diameter on


storage containers having a capacity of 1,200 gallons or less may be equipped with an
excess flow and back-check valve, e.g., vapor return connections.

SEC. 57.42.21. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LIQUEFIED MATERIALS.

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.

D. Storage containers shall be equipped with a liquid level gauging device of


approved design. Tubular glass gauges shall not be used on containers having a design
pressure in excess of 15 psig.

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.

SEC. 57.42.22. PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES.

A. Every container shall be protected by pressure-relieving devices that will prevent


the pressure from rising more than 10 percent above the maximum allowable working
pressure, except when the excess pressure is caused by fire exposure.
B. When an aboveground container contains flammable gases or vapors or liquefied
flammable gases or is subject to fire exposure, supplemental pressure-relieving devices
shall be installed to protect against excessive pressure. Such supplemental pressure-
relieving devices shall be capable of preventing the pressure from rising more than 20
percent above the maximum allowable working pressure. A single pressure-relieving
device may be used to satisfy the requirements of this subsection as well as Subsection A
above, provided it meets the requirements of both subsections.

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.

E. Pressure relief devices on containers having a maximum allowable working


pressure in excess of 10 psig shall be of the direct spring-loaded type. Pilot valve control
or other indirect operation of such pressure relief valves shall not be permitted unless the
design is such that the main unloading valve win open automatically at not over the set
pressure and win discharge its full-rated capacity if some essential part of the pilot or
auxiliary device should fail.

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:

Storage containers having a capacity of 2,000 gallons or less.

SEC. 57.42.23. VACUUM RELIEF DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.42.24. PRESSURE GAUGES.

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.

B. Pressure indicating devices shall be installed as necessary to determine the


operating pressure of each operating unit or container.

SEC. 57.42.25. FILLING TERMINALS.

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.

VAPORIZERS FOR LIQUID MATERIALS

SEC. 57.42.30. VAPORIZERS – GENERAL.

A. Storage containers for liquid materials shall not be directly heated with open
flames.

B. Heating coils shall not be installed inside of storage containers.

C. Vaporizers may be installed in buildings or rooms used exclusively for


vaporizing or mixing of liquefied gases.
D. Vaporizers shall be provided with approved automatic means to prevent liquid
passing from the vaporizer to the gas discharge piping of the vaporizer.

SEC. 57.42.31. INDIRECT FIRED VAPORIZERS.

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.

B. Gas-fired heating systems supplying heat exclusively for vaporization purposes


shall be equipped with automatic safety devices to shut off the flow of gas to main
burners, if pilot light should fail.

C. A shut-off valve shall be installed on the liquid line to the vaporizer unit outside
of any vaporizer room or building.

SEC. 57.42.32. DIRECT FIRED VAPORIZERS.

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

REQUIRED SEPARATIONS FOR VAPORIZERS


Vaporizing Capacity In Gallons Per Hour
Buildings, Streets, & Adjacent Property Lines That May Be Built Upon
Storage Vessels

Less Than 25
25 Feet
5 Feet

25 – 100
40 Feet
5 Feet

More Than 100


50 Feet
5 Feet
C. Every direct fired vaporizer shall be located not less than 50 feet from filling
connections.

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

SEC. 57.42.40. FILLING LIMITS.

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.

SEC. 57.42.41. NONCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS.

A. No person shall load storage containers with two or more materials which are
noncompatible.

B. No person shall load storage containers with any material which is


noncompatible with any material previously loaded therein, until the container has been
thoroughly cleaned and purged.

SEC. 57.42.42. OPERATIONS OF PROCESS VESSELS.

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.

57.43.02 Permit Required.

57.43.03 Approval of Devices.

57.43.04 Other Approvals Required.

57.43.05 Special Vessel Construction.

57.43.06 Design Pressure.

57.43.07 Insulation.

57.43.08 Warning Placards and Signs.

Valves and Accessories

57.43.10 Shut-off Valves.

57.43.11 Gauges.

57.43.12 Pressure Relief Device.

57.43.13 Vacuum Relief Device.

Location and Installation of Stationary Special Vessels

57.43.20 Location of Special Vessels.

57.43.21 Installation of Special Vessels.

57.43.22 Dikes.

Refrigeration Equipment

57.43.30 Refrigeration Load.

57.43.31 Multiple Special Vessels.

57.43.32 Compressors.
57.43.33 Compressor Drives.

57.43.34 Automatic Control Equipment.

57.43.35 Accumulator Vent.

SEC. 57.43.01. SCOPE.

A. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) In addition to all other


applicable portions of this article, the provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No.
68 shall regulate the design, construction, location, installation, and operation of special
vessels used for the storage or transportation at temperature below the ambient
temperature, of liquefied:

1. Flammable materials;

2. Toxic materials;

3. Oxidizing materials; or

4. Gases used for fire or explosion prevention.

If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the provisions of this division,
the more restrictive shall apply

SEC. 57.43.02. PERMIT REQUIRED.

A. A Permit from the Department is required in accordance with division 4 of this


article when the quantities prescribed in Table 4-A are exceeded in any special vessel.

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.

SEC. 57.43.03. APPROVAL OF DEVICES.

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.

SEC. 57.43.04. OTHER APPROVALS REQUIRED.

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:

1. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 12.

2. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19.

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.

1. Special vessel use – stationary or portable.

2. Material to be transported or stored in the special vessel.

3. Materials used in construction of the special vessel.

4. Dimensions and wall thickness of the special vessel.

5. Design pressure, maximum operating pressure, and test pressure of the special
vessel.

6. Type, size, and the setting of safety devices.

7. Such other data and information as the Chief may request.

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.

SEC. 57.43.06. DESIGN PRESSURE.

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.

SEC. 57.43.07. INSULATION.

A. Special vessels may be insulated by means of vacuum insulation or by the


application of insulating materials.
B. Insulating materials shall be of suitable quality and thickness for the
temperatures encountered. They shall be fire resistant, and shall not decompose rapidly if
exposed to fire.

C. Insulating materials shall be suitably supported and protected against the


weather. Weatherproofing shall be of a type which will not support combustion or flame
propagation.

D. Sufficient insulation shall be provided on the special vessel to prevent frost


formation on the outside of the insulation and/or the insulation jacket if the operating
temperature of the special vessel is below 32° F.

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.

SEC. 57.43.08. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Warning placards designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard


No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted in the following locations where portable and
stationary special vessels are stored or used:

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.

VALVES AND ACCESSORIES

SEC. 57.43.10. SHUT-OFF VALVES.

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.

SEC. 57.43.11. GAUGES.

Every special vessel shall be equipped with the following instruments.

A. Liquid level gauge.

B. Recording pressure gauge.


C. Thermometer or other means of measuring temperature.

SEC. 57.43.12. PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICE.

A. Every special vessel operating at a pressure above the atmospheric pressure of


the vessel shall be equipped with at least one approved pressure-relief device. If only one
pressure-relief device is used, it shall be set to operate at a pressure not to exceed the
maximum allowable working pressure of the vessel. Additional relief devices may be set
to operate at a higher pressure but shall not exceed 120 percent of the maximum
allowable working pressure of the vessel.

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.

C. The discharge from pressure-relief devices 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 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.

SEC. 57.43.13. VACUUM RELIEF DEVICE.

A. Every special vessel 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 special vessel is constructed.

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.

LOCATION AND INSTALLATION OF STATIONARY SPECIAL VESSELS

SEC. 57.43.20. LOCATION OF SPECIAL VESSELS.

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.

SEC. 57.43.21. INSTALLATION OF SPECIAL VESSELS.


A. Special vessels shall be provided with substantial concrete or masonry
foundations, or structural-steel supports on firm concrete, or masonry foundations.
Structural-steel supports for special vessels of flammable materials shall be protected
with a fire-protective coating, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

B. Horizontal special vessels shall be so mounted on foundations as to permit


expansion and contraction. Every special vessel shall be supported to prevent the
concentration of excessive Ioads on the supporting portion of the shell. That portion of
the special vessel in contact with foundations or saddles shall be protected against
corrosion.

C. Secure anchorage or adequate pier height shall be provided to insure against


stationary special vessel flotation wherever sufficiently high flood water might occur.

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.

SEC. 57.43.22. DIKES.

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.

B. Containers of toxic or oxidizing materials located in close proximity to


flammable or combustible liquid storage tanks shall be protected by a dike not less than
18 inches in height.

C. Dikes required hereunder shall be constructed in accordance with the applicable


provisions of Division 31 of this article.

REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT

SEC. 57.43.30. REFRIGERATION LOAD.

The total refrigeration load shall be computed as the sum of the following:

A. Heat transfer through the insulation and special vessel wall.

B. Heat input resulting from:

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.

SEC. 57.43.31. MULTIPLE SPECIAL VESSELS.

More than one special vessel may be handled by the same refrigeration system.

SEC. 57.43.32. COMPRESSORS.

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. Compressors shall be suitable for continuous refrigeration service at the


pressures and temperatures to be encountered.

C. Compressors shall be equipped with suction and discharge shutoff valves,


discharge relief valve and suction and discharge pressure gauges.

SEC. 57.43.33. COMPRESSOR DRIVES.

A. Each compressor shall have its own individual driving unit.

B. An alternate source of power of sufficient capacity to handle the Ioad determined


by Subsection A of Section 57.43.30 shall be provided, or facilities shall be provided for
venting gas from the top of the special vessel to handle the refrigeration load in the event
of power failure.

SEC. 57.43.34. AUTOMATIC CONTROL EQUIPMENT.

The following automatic control equipment shall be provided:

A. Suitable controls to govern the compressor operation in accordance with the


pressure in the special vessel.

B. An alarm system to function before the pressure in the special vessel rises to the
design pressure.

C. An alarm and high pressure compressor cut-off shall be actuated by the


condenser system 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.

57.44.02 Container Construction.

57.44.03 Storage of Cargo Tank Vehicles.

57.44.04 Repair of Cargo Tank Vehicles.

57.44.05 Prohibited Locations.

57.44.06 Transfer Hoses.

57.44.07 Portable Fire Extinguishers.

57.44.08 Warning Placards.

57.44.09 Storage of Vehicles Equipped with Mobile Fuel Tanks.

Filling and Dispensing Liquefied Flammable Gas from Cargo Tanks

57.44.10 Prohibition.

57.44.11 Filling Cylinders or Tanks.

57.44.12 Distance from Buildings.

57.44.13 Open Flame.

57.44.14 Methods of Filling.

57.44.15 Transferring on Public Thoroughfare.

57.44.16 Filling and Dispensing Precautions.

57.44.17 Attendance During Transfer Operations.

57.44.18 Chock Blocks and Parking Brakes.

SEC. 57.44.01. SCOPE.


The provisions of this division shall regulate the use of cargo tanks for the
transportation of the following:

A. Liquefied Flammable Gases

B. Flammable Gases

C. Gaseous Toxic Materials or Gaseous Oxidizing Materials when transported at


pressures in excess of 0.5 psig; or,

D. Liquefied Toxic Materials or Liquefied Oxidizing Materials having a vapor


pressure in excess of 14.7 psia at a temperature of 100°F.

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.).

SEC. 57.44.02. CONTAINER CONSTRUCTION.

Cargo Tanks used for the non-highway transportation of liquefied or gaseous


hazardous materials regulated by this Division shall be designed, constructed, tested, and
maintained in accordance with L..A.F.D. Standards No. 19 and No. 26.

SEC. 57.44.03. STORAGE OF CARGO TANK VEHICLES.

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:

STORAGE OF CARGO TANK VEHICLES


Capacity in Gallons
Minimum Distance From Buildings

Up to 500 Gallons
10 Feet

501 to 1,200 Gallons


25 Feet
Over 1,200 Gallons
50 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.

SEC. 57.44.04. REPAIR OF CARGO TANK VEHICLES.

A. No cargo tank vehicle or any vehicle in connection therewith when located


outside of the “M-l”, “M-2”, or “M-3” Zones set forth in Article 2, Chapter I of the
Municipal Code, shall be repaired except in emergencies, provided that no cargo tank
shall be repaired unless all flammable vapors are first removed therefrom.

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.

C. Cargo tank vehicles or any vehicle in connection therewith may be repaired in


public or private garages located in the “M-1”, “M-2”, or “M-3” Zones set forth in
Article 2, Chapter I of the Municipal Code, provided all flammable vapors are first
removed from cargo tanks and so maintained throughout the entire period of repair.

SEC. 57.44.05. PROHIBITED LOCATIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.44.06. TRANSFER HOSES.

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.

SEC. 57.44.07. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

One portable fire extinguisher having a 20B classification shall be installed and
maintained on every cargo tank vehicle.

SEC. 57.44.08. WARNING PLACARDS.

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.

SEC. 57.44.09. STORAGE OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH MOBILE FUEL


TANKS.

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.

FILLING AND DISPENSING LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GAS FROM CARGO


TANKS

SEC. 57.44.10. PROHIBITION.

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.

SEC. 57.44.11. FILLING 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.

SEC. 57.44.12. DISTANCE FROM BUILDINGS.

No cylinder or tank shall be filled within 25 feet of any building or house trailer.

SEC. 57.44.13. OPEN FLAME.


No cylinder or tank shall be filled within 25 feet of any open flame or other source of
ignition.

SEC. 57.44.14. METHODS OF FILLING.

A. No person shall fill any cylinder or tank except by an approved method of


weighing or a liquid level gauging device of approved design.

B. The transferring of liquefied flammable gas from a cargo tank to a cylinder or


tank shall be done by pressure differential, pumping, or gravity. An artificial cooling of
cylinders or tanks to reduce pressure below normal temperature for the purpose of filling
is prohibited.

C. Pressure differential shall not be obtained by lowering the pressure of the


receiving cylinder or tank by blowing or venting vapor to the atmosphere, except through
approved gauging devices.

SEC. 57.44.15. TRANSFERRING ON PUBLIC THOROUGHFARE.

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.

SEC. 57.44.16. FILLING AND DISPENSING PRECAUTIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.44.17. ATTENDANCE DURING TRANSFER OPERATIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.44.18. CHOCK BLOCKS AND PARKING BRAKES.


Every cargo tank vehicle shall be equipped with at least two chock blocks. The
parking brake shall be set 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.
DIVISION 45
NONFLAMMABLE MEDICAL, GASES IN NONINSTITUTIONAL
FACILITIES
Section

57.45.01 Scope.

57.45.02 Design and Installation.

57.45.03 Cylinder Supply System.

57.45.04 Piping.

57.45.05 Shut-off Valves for Remote Cylinder Storage.

57.45.06 Station Outlets.

57.45.07 Warning System.

57.45.08 Identification Signs.

57.45.09 Testing of Piping Systems.

57.45.10 Maintenance and Periodic Testing.

57.45.11 Cylinder Storage Requirements.

SEC. 57.45.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.45.02. DESIGN AND INSTALLATION.

A. Nonflammable medical gas systems in noninstitutional facilities shall be


installed under Division 5 Permit for installation of pressure vessels or liquefied gas
manifold systems and shall be designed in compliance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 46
and/or L.A.F.D. Standard No. 47. Every room used for the storage of nonflammable
medical gas shall be constructed in accordance with requirements of Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

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.

SEC. 57.45.03. CYLINDER SUPPLY SYSTEM.

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.

D. A shutoff valve or check valve shall be installed downstream of each pressure


regulator. A pressure relief valve set at 50 percent above normal line pressure shall be
installed downstream of the shutoff or check valve. It shall close automatically when
excess pressure has been released. Pressure relief valves shall be of brass or bronze and
designed for oxygen service.

E. The supply system shall be turned off at the end of each day of operation.

SEC. 57.45.04. PIPING.

A. Piping shall be seamless type K or L (ASTM B-88) copper tubing or standard


weight (Schedule 40) brass pipe. Gas piping shall not be supported by other piping but
shall be supported with pipe hooks, metal pipe straps, bands, or hangars all of which shall
be of proper strength and quality and suitable for the pipe size. Supports for medical gas
piping shall be installed to preclude accidental movement from the installed position and
shall be positioned at the following maximum intervals:

3/8 in. or 1/2 in. piping 6 ft.

3/4 in. or 1 in. piping 8 ft.

1-1/4 in. or larger piping (horizontal) 10 ft.

1-1/4 in. or larger piping (vertical) every floor level

B. Medical gas piping installed in combustible partitions shall be within approved


pipe or conduit to protect against physical damage. Openings for piping installed in
concealed spaces shall be fire-stopped with construction having a fire resistance equal to
or greater than the original construction.

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:

1. Approved brass flared type gas tube fittings.

2. Joints at valves or at equipment requiring threaded connections.

The use of flux is prohibited in all instances except those requiring the joining of
copper and brass or other dissimilar metals.

SEC. 57.45.05. SHUT-OFF VALVES FOR REMOTE CYLINDER STORAGE.

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”.

SEC. 57.45.06. STATION OUTLETS.

A. Each station outlet for medical gases, whether threaded or noninterchangeable


quick-coupler, shall be gas specific, and shall consist of a primary and a secondary valve
(or assembly). The secondary valve (or unit) shall close automatically to stop the flow of
medical gas when the primary valve (or unit) is removed. Each outlet shall be legibly
identified with the name or chemical symbol of the gas contained.

B. Threaded outlets shall be noninterchangeable connections.


C. Station outlets shall be five feet above the floor or, if lower shall be flush with
wall or cabinet or protected to prevent physical damage to the valve or control
equipment.

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.

E. Adequate signs stating “OXYGEN IN USE, NO SMOKING”, with minimum


1/2 inch letters on contrasting background shall be conspicuously posted prior to the first
point of use in an oxygen medical gas system.

SEC. 57.45.07. WARNING SYSTEM.

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.

SEC. 57.45.08. IDENTIFICATION SIGNS.

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.

B. Shut Off Valves: Valves shall be marked to prohibit tampering or inadvertent


closing. Marking such as “CAUTION – (name of medical gas) – DO NOT CLOSE
EXCEPT IN EMERGENCY”, is appropriate.

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.

SEC. 57.45.09. TESTING OF PIPING SYSTEMS.


A. General:

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:

1. Before attachment of system components, but after installation of station outlets


with test caps in place, each section of the piping system shall be subjected to a test
pressure of not less than 150 psig with oil-free dry air or nitrogen. This test pressure shall
be maintained until each joint has been examined for leakage. All leaks shall be repaired
and the pipe section retested.

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.

C. Test System For Cross Connection:

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.

4. Each individual station outlet of all systems installed shall be checked to


determine that test gas is being dispensed only from the system being tested. This shall be
done using appropriate adapters matching outlet labels.

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.

E. Warning System Tests:

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.

SEC. 57.45.10. MAINTENANCE AND PERIODIC TESTING.

A. A qualified person shall perform maintenance and periodic testing of


nonflammable medical gas systems and their related warning systems as per L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 46.

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.

C. Enclosures or rooms for nonflammable gas storage shall be maintained in a


manner that insures access to all control equipment. Such enclosures or rooms shall not
be used to store or maintain combustible storage.

SEC. 57.45.11. CYLINDER STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.

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

57.50.01 General Requirements.

57.50.02 Release or Use of Cellulose Nitrate Film.

57.50.03 Storage of Cellulose Nitrate Film.

57.50.04 Storage Racks in Film Vaults.

57.50.05 Heating of Film Vaults.

57.50.06 Refrigeration of Film Vaults.

57.50.07 Handling and Processing of Cellulose Nitrate Film.

57.50.08 Equipment in Handling and Processing Areas.

57.50.09 Warning Placards and Signs.

57.50.10 Scrap Cellulose Nitrate Film.

57.50.11 Artificial Heating.

57.50.12 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.50.01. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

No person shall use, process, produce, store, handle, or possess any cellulose nitrate
film except in approved lockers, cabinets, rooms, vaults, equipment or location.

SEC. 57.50.02. RELEASE OR USE OF CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM.

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.

SEC. 57.50.03. STORAGE OF CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM.

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

STORAGE OF CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM


LOCATION OF STORAGE
MAXIMUM QUANTITY

Outside of a film locker, cabinet or vault


25 lbs.

In a film locker
100 lbs.

In original, unopened shipping containers in a sprinklered room conforming to Building


Department requirements
750 lbs.

In a film cabinet
1000 lbs.

In film, cabinets in sprinklered room conforming to Building Department requirements


2000 lbs.

In film vaults
Unlimited

SEC. 57.50.04. STORAGE RACKS IN FILM VAULTS.

Racks in film vaults shall be of noncombustible materials and of a design and


construction suitable for their use.

SEC. 57.50.05. HEATING OF FILM VAULTS.

No person shall install or maintain artificial heating equipment in any film vault.

SEC. 57.50.06. REFRIGERATION OF FILM VAULTS.

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.

SEC. 57.50.07. HANDLING AND PROCESSING OF CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM.


Cellulose nitrate film shall be handled and processed in a room or building
conforming to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

SEC. 57.50.08. EQUIPMENT IN HANDLING AND PROCESSING AREAS.

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.

SEC. 57.50.09. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

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.

SEC. 57.50.10. SCRAP CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM.

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.

SEC. 57.50.11. ARTIFICIAL HEATING.

A. Artificial heating is prohibited in a film vault. In any other room in which


cellulose nitrate film is handled, processed, or stored heating shall be restricted to steam
not exceeding 15 pounds pressure, hot water, approved electric steam radiators, or
indirect heating systems.

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.

SEC. 57.50.12. FIRE PROTECTION.


All buildings or portions of buildings where cellulose nitrate film is used, processed,
produced, stored, or handled in quantities in excess of 50 pounds, shall be equipped with
an approved automatic fire protection system, and such portable fire extinguishers as the
Chief may require. The provisions of this section shall not apply to existing projection
booths or rooms, and rewinding rooms connected therewith may continue to be used
though not equipped with an automatic fire protection system, provided that alternative
fire safety equipment and appliances as may be required are provided.
DIVISION 51
HAZARDOUS PLASTICS

Section

57.51.01 Scope.

57.51.02 Prohibited Uses.

57.51.03 Handling.

57.51.04 Working Supply.

57.51.05 Distance – Barrier Separations.

57.51.06 Scrap Materials.

57.51.07 Sources of Ignition.

57.51.08 Storage.

57.51.09 Fire Protection.

57.51.10 Warning Placards and Signs.

SEC. 57.51.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.51.02. PROHIBITED USES.

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.

SEC. 57.51.03. HANDLING.


All hazardous plastics, when not in actual use or being worked upon, shall be kept in
approved containers complying with specifications of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26, or in
storage locations as provided in Section 57.51.08 of this division.

SEC. 57.51.04. WORKING SUPPLY.

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.

SEC. 57.51.05. DISTANCE – BARRIER SEPARATIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.51.06. SCRAP MATERIALS.

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.

SEC. 57.51.07. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

No smoking, open flame, unapproved heating device or electrical equipment, or other


source of ignition shall be permitted in any room devoted exclusively to handling of
hazardous plastics, nor within 25 feet of hazardous plastic work areas in other rooms.

SEC. 57.51.08. STORAGE.

The storage of hazardous plastics shall conform to the following:

A. A maximum of 50 pounds may be stored in the open in approved containers


complying with specifications of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26.

B. A maximum of 250 pounds may be stored in an approved cabinet. Not more


than two cabinets shall be permitted in one building or fire-resistive separation area of a
building.

C. Storage in excess of 500 pounds shall be located in an approved film vault


conforming to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
SEC. 57.51.09. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.51.10. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Warning placards designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard


No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted in the following locations where hazardous plastics
are stored, processed, or handled.

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

57.52.02 General Storage Requirements.

57.52.03 Pigs, Ingots and Billets Storage.

57.52.04 Heavy Castings Storage.

57.52.05 Fabricated Magnesium Storage.

57.52.06 Warehouses and Stores.

57.52.07 Melting and Casting.

57.52.08 Grinding, Buffing and Wire Brushing.

57.52.09 Machining Magnesium.

57.52.10 Drawing and Spinning.

57.52.11 Handling of Magnesium Scrap.

57.52.12 Fire Protection.

57.52.14 Magnesium Powder.

Titanium and Zirconium

57.52.20 Milling, Machining, and Fabrication of Titanium and Zirconium.

57.52.21 Handling of Titanium and Zirconium.

57.52.22 General Storage Requirements.

Aluminum Powder and Paste

57.52.25 Storage of Aluminum Powder and Paste.

57.52.30 Fire Protection.


57.52.31 Warning Placards and Signs.

SEC. 57.52.01. SCOPE.

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

SEC. 57.52.02. GENERAL STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.

A. Location: Magnesium shall be stored only on the ground floor of one story
buildings or outside.

B. Aisles: Sufficient aisles shall be maintained to permit inspection and effective


use of fire protection equipment. Aisle widths shall be at least one-half the height of the
piles.

C. Inspection: All magnesium castings shall be inspected prior to storage to see that
they are clean and free from chips or fine particles.

D. Segregation: Stocks of magnesium shall be stored separately from storage of


combustible material, acids, flammable and combustible liquids, oxidizing materials, and
combustible metal chips and turnings by a distance at least equal to the required aisle
width.

SEC. 57.52.03. PIGS, INGOTS AND BILLETS STORAGE.

A. Outside Buildings: Storage of magnesium pigs, ingots and billets outside


buildings shall be in piles not exceeding 1,000,000 pounds each, separated by aisles not
less in width than one-half the height of the piles, and in no event less than 10 feet. Stored
magnesium pigs, ingots, and billets shall be separated from combustible material or
buildings on the same or adjoining property by a distance at least equal to the height of
the nearest pile plus 10 feet.

B. Inside Buildings: Storage of pigs, ingots and billets in buildings shall be on


floors of noncombustible construction, in piles not larger than 500,000 pounds each,
separated by aisles not less than one-half the height of the piles, but in no event less than
10 feet.

SEC. 57.52.04. HEAVY CASTINGS STORAGE.


Large magnesium castings (25 pounds or more) having walls of heavy cross section at
least 1/4 inch, shall be stored outside, or in one-story buildings without basements or
floor depressions of noncombustible construction. Individual piles shall be limited to
1,250 cubic feet.

SEC. 57.52.05. FABRICATED MAGNESIUM STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.52.06. WAREHOUSES AND STORES.

A. Magnesium storage in warehouses and stores in a quantity greater than 1,000


cubic feet shall be separated into piles not larger than 1,000 cubic feet each with aisles
between, equal in width to not less than the height of the piles.

B. Combustible materials shall be separated from magnesium storage by aisles


equal in width to not less than the height of the piles of magnesium plus 10 feet.

SEC. 57.52.07. MELTING AND CASTING.

A. Location: Melting operations shall be located in buildings of noncombustible


construction (preferably with high roof) and with adequate ventilation. Floors shall be
noncombustible.

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.

C. Pot Inspection: Pots and crucibles shall be inspected regularly by the


management and discarded as soon as there is any evidence of possible failure.

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.

SEC. 57.52.08. GRINDING, BUFFING AND WIRE BRUSHING.

A. Hoods: At each grinding, buffing or wire brushing operation on magnesium, not


including rough finishing of castings, dust shall be collected by means of approved hoods
or enclosures connected to a liquid precipitation type of separator, such that the dust will
be converted to sludge without contact in a dry state with any high speed moving parts.
B. Ducts: Connecting ducts or suction tubes shall be grounded and as short as
possible with no unnecessary bends. Ducts shall be carefully fabricated and assembled,
with a smooth interior and with internal lap joints pointing in the direction of air flow,
and without unused capped side outlets, pockets or other deadend spaces which might
allow an accumulation of dust.

C. Separators: Each machine shall be equipped with an individual dust separator


unit, except that with multi-unit machines, not more than two dust producing units may
be served by one separator. Not more than four portable dust producing units in a single
enclosure or stand may be served by one separator unit.

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.

E. Electrical Equipment: Electric motors, lighting fixtures, control equipment and


wiring in immediate vicinity of, and attached to dust producing machines, including that
used in connection with separator equipment, shall be of a type approved for use in a
dust-hazardous location, and installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9 of
the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

F. Grounding: All equipment shall be securely and permanently grounded in an


approved manner to prevent the accumulation of static electricity.

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.

K. Chrome-pickled Magnesium: In the grinding of chrome-pickled magnesium


surfaces, special precautions shall be taken to guard against accumulations of dust in air
within range of the sparks which may be produced.

SEC. 57.52.09. MACHINING MAGNESIUM.


A. Coolants: Liquid coolants shall be restricted to high flash point (over 200° F.)
neutral mineral oils. Where compressed air is used as a coolant, special precautions shall
be taken to keep the air dry.

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.

SEC. 57.52.10. DRAWING AND SPINNING.

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.

SEC. 57.52.11. HANDLING OF MAGNESIUM SCRAP.

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).

C. Magnesium fines shall be kept separate from other combustible materials.

D. Storage of magnesium fines in quantities greater than 50 cubic feet shall be


separated from other occupancies by fire-resistive construction without openings or by an
open space of at least 50 feet.

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.

SEC. 57.52.12. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. Portable fire extinguishers suitable for use in magnesium fires shall be provided
as required by Division 140 of this article.

B. Fixed Fire Protection Equipment: Where magnesium storage exceeds 1,000


cubic feet in a combustible building, or the magnesium is packed in combustible crates or
cartons, or there is other combustible storage within 50 feet of the magnesium, then the
storage shall be protected by a fixed fire protection system approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.52.14. MAGNESIUM POWDER.

A. Production:

1. Magnesium powder produced by the “Wet” process shall be subject to applicable


provisions relating to Class I liquids in addition to the requirements of this division.

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.

B. Handling, Conveying, And Transferring:

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.

2. Magnetic separators shall be used to remove all foreign materials from


magnesium entering grinders. Screens shall be installed ahead of hammer mills or
pulverizers.

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.

TITANIUM AND ZIRCONIUM

SEC. 57.52.20. MILLING, MACHINING, AND FABRICATION OF TITANIUM AND


ZIRCONIUM.
A. Nonflammable, water soluble coolants shall be used for wet grinding, cutting, or
sawing operations. Coolant shall be filtered on a continuous basis, and filter cake shall
be removed daily to a safe storage area or disposed of following applicable regulations.

B. Dust shall be collected by means of suitable hoods or enclosures at each dust-


producing operation. The hoods or enclosures shall be connected to liquid precipitation
separation, and the suction unit installed so that the dust is converted to sludge without
contact in the dry state, with any high speed moving parts. Dust collection systems shall
be fabricated and installed according to L.A.F.D. Standard No. 42 and Division 53 of this
article.

C. Pans: Wherever practicable, machines shall be provided with a pan to intercept


chips, turnings or fines. The pan shall be located so it can be readily withdrawn from
under the machine in case of fire. It shall be accessible for chip removal and for
application of fire extinguishing powder.

SEC. 57.52.21. HANDLING OF TITANIUM AND ZIRCONIUM.

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.

SEC. 57.52.22. GENERAL STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.

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.

5. Storage areas shall be separated from other occupancies by appropriate fire-


resistive construction without openings or by an open space of at least 50 feet.
6. All chips, turnings, and fines shall be separated from all combustible storage,
flammable solids, flammable and combustible liquids, dangerous chemicals, and
corrosive liquids.

7. No open flame or spark-producing device shall be permitted in operating,


storage, or disposal areas. The above areas shall be clearly posted with ‘NO SMOKING
signs in accordance with Division 23 of this article.

8. A Permit is required in accordance with Division 4 of this article when the


quantities exceed the exempt amount of combustible metals in Table 4-A.

ALUMINUM POWDER AND PASTE

SEC. 57.52.25. STORAGE OF ALUMINUM POWDER AND PASTE.

A. Aluminum powder and/or paste shall be stored in sealed containers of a type


approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). When any portion of powder
or paste has been removed, the container shall be carefully covered and resealed.

B. Aluminum powder and/or paste shall not be stored in the same area as oxidizing
agents, flammable and combustible liquids, or combustible materials.

C. Containers shall be kept free of contact with water or moisture in accordance


with the provisions of Division 75 of this article.

SEC. 57.52.30. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. Only portable fire extinguishers suitable for use on Class D fires shall be used, in
accordance with Division 140 of this article.

B. When required by the Chief, fire extinguishing agents suitable for


extinguishment or containment of combustible metal fires shall be stored in sufficient
quantity in sealed containers in all areas where combustible metals are used or stored.
Shovels and hand scoops shall be kept readily available adjacent to the sealed containers.
Extinguishing agents shall be clearly identified and shall be available within 75 feet of
the hazard.

SEC. 57.52.31. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Where combustible metals in the form of dust, chips, powder, turnings, or


ribbons in amounts exceeding those specified in Division 4 of this article are stored,
processed, or handled, warning placards designed and constructed as specified in
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted at the following locations:

1. At an entrance to any building used for storing, processing, or handling of


combustible metals and at such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
2. At the main entrance to any area outside a building where combustible metals are
stored, processed, or handled or within such area if no entrance is clearly defined.

B. A sign bearing the identification of the combustible metal (“TlTANIUM,


ZIRCONIUM, MAGNESIUM, ALUMINUM POWDER and/or PASTE”) in letters not
less than three inches high shall be posted in the area where the material is stored,
processed, or handled and at such locations as may be required by the Chief.
DIVISION 53
FLAMMABLE AND EXPLOSIVE DUST

Section

General Requirements

57.53.01 Minimum Safety.

57.53.02 Approval of Dust Collection Systems.

57.53.03 Housekeeping and Maintenance.

57.53.04 Dust Collection Systems for Rooms or Buildings.

57.53.05 Dust-tight Enclosures.

Dust Collection System Design

57.53.10 Efficiency and Grounding.

57.53.11 Conveyors.

57.53.12 Grinding and Buffing Machines.

57.53.13 Traps.

57.53.14 Magnetic Separators.

57.53.15 Fan Location.

57.53.16 Fan and Blower Construction.

57.53.17 Ducts.

57.53.18 Separating and Collecting Equipment.

57.53.19 Explosion Relief Venting.

57.53.20 Electric Lighting and Equipment.

57.53.21 Fire Protection.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 57.53.01. MINIMUM SAFETY.


Reasonable care shall be exercised to prevent personal injuries or property damage
arising from fire or explosion caused by flammable dusts. Unless otherwise regulated by
this division, compliance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 42 is required with respect to
flammable or explosive dust.

SEC. 57.53.02. APPROVAL OF DUST COLLECTION SYSTEMS.

Any person, firm, or corporation intending to install a dust collection system, or


remodel or enlarge an existing system, shall first submit plans in triplicate to the Chief for
approval prior to installation. Approval by the Chief shall be tentative only, and subject
to final approval on inspection of premises and systems when in operation. It shall be
unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to install, remodel, enlarge, or use such a
system without the approval of the Chief.

SEC. 57.53.03. HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE.

A. No person shall permit the accumulation of any flammable or explosive dust in


quantities sufficient to create a fire or explosion hazard on floors, walls, ledges, or other
exposed building structural members, piping, conduit, electrical equipment, or on the roof
of any building on which dust may settle.

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.

C. The removal and collection of small quantities of loose dust may be


accomplished with approved industrial vacuum cleaners.

D. Metallic dust shall be stored in tightly covered metal containers in a cool, dry
place.

SEC. 57.53.04. DUST COLLECTION SYSTEMS FOR ROOMS OR BUILDINGS.

Every plant, factory, workshop, or other premises in which dust is produced, or is a


by-product, in such quantities as to create a hazard, shall be equipped with an approved
pneumatic or mechanical dust collection system designed, maintained, and operated to
keep all hazardous accumulations of dust from such premises, including all enclosed and
inaccessible areas, and spaces.

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.

DUST COLLECTION SYSTEM DESIGN

SEC. 57.53.10. EFFICIENCY AND GROUNDING.

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.

SEC. 57.53.11. CONVEYORS.

Belt type conveyors shall be equipped with hooded air sections, approved static
collectors, and shall be adequately grounded.

SEC. 57.53.12. GRINDING AND BUFFING MACHINES.

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.

SEC. 57.53.13. TRAPS.

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.

SEC. 57.53.14. MAGNETIC SEPARATORS.

Approved magnetic separators of the permanent magnet or electromagnetic types


should be installed at those points where combustible materials which may contain
ferrous particles enter the system. The separators shall be of sufficient size to insure the
removal of all ferrous materials passing by them.

SEC. 57.53.15. FAN LOCATION.

Systems collecting highly flammable or explosive dust shall, wherever practicable, be


so arranged that the fan is on the clean air side of the collector. Systems shall be operated
with approved equipment for removing stock from the air stream before it reaches the
fan. Readily ignitable materials shall not pass through the fan unless the fan is
constructed and installed in a manner approved therefor.
SEC. 57.53.16. FAN AND BLOWER CONSTRUCTION.

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.

SEC. 57.53.17. DUCTS.

A. Metal ducts shall be constructed of sheet metal in accordance with Table 53-A.

TABLE 53-A

FLAMMABLE MATERIAL DUCTS – GAUGE OF METAL


Diameter of Duct in Inches
U.S. Standard Gauge of Duct

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

B. Buried ducts may be of concrete or ceramic materials, cast iron, or cement-


asbestos and shall be properly protected to prevent mechanical injury.

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.

K. Additional branch ducts shall not be added to an existing system without


redesigning the system. Branch ducts shall not be disconnected nor unused portions of a
system be blanked off without providing orifice plates to maintain required airflow.

SEC. 57.53.18. SEPARATING AND COLLECTING EQUIPMENT.

A. Cyclones, condensers, cloth screen and stocking arrestors, centrifugal collectors,


and other devices used for the purpose of separating solid materials from the air stream in
which it is carried, and hoppers, bins, silos, and vaults for collecting the solid materials so
separated, shall be provided and maintained as hereinafter specified.

B. Separating and collecting equipment shall be designed and constructed to


withstand anticipated explosion pressures, due consideration being given the reduction in
pressure afforded by adequate explosion relief vents.
C. Every dust collecting system, blower, and conveyor shall discharge into an
approved vault equipped with an automatic damper or choke in the discharge pipe, or into
a noncombustible container outside of the building.

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.

D. Cyclone dust collectors shall vent outside of the building or to a fire-resistive,


explosion vented, dust-tight room conforming to requirements of the Building
Department. Supports shall be of steel, masonry, or concrete. Clean-out doors shall be
provided.

E. Separating or collecting equipment shall be located at a safe distance from


combustible construction or unprotected openings into buildings, and in any case not
closer than a distance equal to its width or diameter.

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.

H. Delivery of stock from separator, cyclones, or other collection equipment to


storage receptacles shall, wherever practicable, be accomplished by means of gravity
through tightly fitted ducts.

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.

SEC. 57.53.19. EXPLOSION RELIEF VENTING.

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.

C. Storage bins or other receptacles which contain materials which form an


explosive mixture with air shall be provided with adequate explosion relief vents.

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.

E. Explosion relief vent openings shall not be connected to chimneys or duct


systems used for other purposes.

SEC. 57.53.20. ELECTRIC LIGHTING AND EQUIPMENT.

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.

SEC. 57.53.21. FIRE PROTECTION.

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

57.54.01 Storage of Loose Fibres.

57.54.02 Baled Storage.

57.54.03 Picking Rooms.

57.54.04 Mixed Storage.

57.54.05 Sources of Ignition.

57.54.06 Grass and Weeds.

57.54.07 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.54.01. STORAGE OF LOOSE FIBRES.

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.

D. Up to 2,500 cubic feet of loose flammable fibres may be stored in a detached


building in an approved location, with openings properly protected against the entrance
of sparks. Such building shall be used for no other purpose.

E. Loose hay being harvested, or used or feeding or bedding of animals in excess of


100 cubic feet shall not be stored within 50 feet of any building.

SEC. 57.54.02. BALED STORAGE.

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.

D. Quantity Limitation: Flammable fibres in bales or packages shall be stored in


quantities not to exceed those set forth in Table No. 54-A. Covered Bales and Treated
Bales as defined in Division 2 of this article are not subject to the provisions of this
section.

SEC. 57.54.03. PICKING ROOMS.

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.

SEC. 57.54.04. MIXED STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.54.05. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

A. Automotive Equipment: Trucks or automobiles, other than approved industrial


trucks and mechanical handling equipment, shall not enter any fibre storage room or
building, but may be used in connection with approved loading platforms.
B. Electrical Equipment: Electrical wiring and equipment in any flammable fibre
storage room or building shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Electrical Code) for that type of hazardous location.

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.

SEC. 57.54.06. GRASS AND WEEDS.

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.

SEC. 57.54.07. FIRE PROTECTION.

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

STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE FIBRES IN A SINGLE FIRE AREA

(In Cubic Feet)


Outside A Fire District
Inside A Fire District
Note: Exempt from limitations of this table are crops being harvested and loose
materials deposited for immediate feeding or bedding of animals.
L

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

No Automatic Fire Protection System.

14,400
7,200
Within A Fire-Resistive Room

With Automatic Fire Protection System.

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

(Type IIIA, IIIB, IV & V)


NO

AUTO-MATIC FIRE P. SYS-

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.

57.55.02 Smokeless Powder.

57.55.03 Small Arms Primers.

57.55.05 Sources of Ignition.

57.55.06 Vegetation.

57.55.10 Small Arms Ammunition.

57.55.11 Fire Protection.

57.55.12 Warning Placards and Signs.

SEC. 57.55.01. FIREWORKS.

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. A maximum of 500 pounds may be stored in approved portable magazines


complying with the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 40 and in a location approved
by the Chief.

2. Quantities in excess of 500 pounds shall be stored in a room of one-hour fire-


resistive construction. Door openings therein shall be protected by one-hour fire
assemblies. Such rooms shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.

SEC. 57.55.02. SMOKELESS POWDER.

A. Containers: All smokeless powder shall be stored in shipping containers


approved by the D.O.T.

B. Storage Requirements: Commercial stocks of smokeless powder shall be stored


as follows:

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:

a. The warehouse or storage room shall not be accessible to unauthorized personnel


and shall be separated from the retail sales areas by a one-hour fire resistive separation.

b. Smokeless powder shall be stored in non-portable storage cabinets having


wooden walls at least one inch thick and not more than a three foot vertical separation
between shelves.

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.

e. Separation distance between cabinets may be reduced to 20 feet if barricades are


attached to the wall and are at least twice the height of the cabinets or floor to ceiling.
Barricades shall be centered between cabinets and shall extend at least 10 feet
perpendicular from the wall. Barricades are to be constructed of either brick, concrete
block, wood at least two inches thick, boiler plate at least 1/4 inch thick, or of equivalent
materials. Barricades shall be firmly attached to the building structure at both ends.

f. Smokeless powder shall be separated from flammable liquids, flammable solids,


and oxidizing materials by a one-hour fire-resistive separation. Smokeless powder shall
be separated from small arms primers or other explosives by a minimum distance of 25
feet or by a one-hour fire-resistive separation.

g. Buildings in which smokeless powder is stored shall be equipped with an


automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).

SEC. 57.55.03. SMALL ARMS PRIMERS.

A. Containers: Small arms primers shall not be transported or stored except in the
original shipping containers approved by the D.O.T.

B. Separation: Small arms primers shall be separated from flammable liquids,


flammable solids and oxidizing materials by a one-hour fire-resistive separation. Small
arms primers shall be separated from smokeless powder or other explosives by a
minimum distance of 25 feet or by a one-hour fire resistive separation.

C. Storage Requirements:

1. Quantities of up to 750,000 small arms primers may be stored in a building if not


more than 100,000 are stored in any one pile, and piles are at least 15 feet apart.

2. Small arms primers in excess of 750,000, stored in a building, shall not be


accessible to unauthorized personnel and shall be stored in storage cabinets, not to exceed
200,000 primers in each cabinet. Such cabinets shall meet the following construction and
location 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.

c. Separation distance between cabinets may be reduced to 20 feet if barricades are


attached to the wall and are at least twice the height of the cabinets or floor to ceiling.
Barricades shall be centered between cabinets and shall extend at least 10 feet
perpendicular to the wall. Barricades are to be constructed of either brick, concrete block,
wood at least two inches thick, boiler plate at least 1/4 inch thick, or of equivalent
materials. Barricades shall be firmly attached to the building structure at both ends.

3. The building shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in


accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
D. Commercial stocks of small arms primers not in the original shipping containers
shall be stored in a portable magazine constructed in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard
No. 40.

SEC. 57.55.05. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

Smoking, matches, open flames, spark-producing devices, and other sources of


ignition shall not be permitted inside of or within 50 feet of any facility used for the
storage of fireworks, smokeless powder, small arms ammunition, or small arms primers.

SEC. 57.55.06. VEGETATION.

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.

SEC. 57.55.10. SMALL ARMS AMMUNITION.

In addition to the applicable requirements of Division 70 of this article, the following


shall apply:

A. Incendiary or Signaling Ammunition: No person shall discharge any ammunition


which contains, in addition to the primer and explosive charge provided for necessary
propulsion of the projectile, any explosive, flammable or signaling substance which is
capable of igniting any material, except by written permission of the Chief.

B. Storage of Small Arms Ammunition:

1. Amounts not to exceed 500 pounds may be stored in any safe and secured
location.

2. Amounts in excess of 500 pounds shall be stored in a location and in a manner


approved by the Chief.

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.

C. Separation: Small arms ammunition shall be separated from flammable liquids,


flammable solids, and oxidizing materials by an one-hour fire resistive separation or by a
distance of 25 feet.
D. Approval: Small arms ammunition shall not be stored with Class A or Class B
explosives unless the storage facility is approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.55.11. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.55.12. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Wherever fireworks, smokeless powder, small arms ammunition, or small arms


primers are stored in quantities over the exempt amounts as listed in Division 4 of this
article, warning placards designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No.
58 shall be conspicuously posted in the following locations:

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.

B. Wherever fireworks, smokeless powder, small arms ammunition, or small arms


primers are stored, signs with letters at least three inches high on a contrasting
background stating “FIREWORKS,” “SMOKELESS POWDER,” “AMMUNITION,”
and/or “SMALL ARMS PRIMERS” appropriately identifying that type of material or
materials involved, shall be conspicuously posted at any location within a building and at
any location within an area outside a building where such materials are stored, and also at
such other locations as may be required by the Chief.
DIVISION 56
MATCHES

Section

57.56.01 Scope.

57.56.02 Packaging and Labeling.

57.56.03 General Storage Requirements.

57.56.04 Wholesale Storage.

57.56.05 Mixed Storage.

57.56.06 Prohibited Types.

57.56.07 Fire Protection.

SEC. 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.

SEC. 57.56.02. PACKAGING AND LABELING.

Matches shall be labeled and packaged in conformance with the provisions of


L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26.

SEC. 57.56.03. GENERAL STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.

A. Vertical Openings: Matches in excess of 50 pounds including the containers


shall not be stored within 10 feet of any open elevator shaft, elevator shaft opening, open
stairway, or other vertical opening.

B. Source of Ignition: Matches in excess of 50 pounds including the containers,


shall not be stored within 10 feet of any boiler, furnace, stove, open flame, or similar
source of ignition.

SEC. 57.56.04. WHOLESALE STORAGE.

At wholesale establishments and other locations where containers of matches are


stored in piles exceeding 100 cubic feet, such containers shall be arranged so as not to
exceed 10 feet in height nor 1,500 cubic feet in volume with aisles at least eight feet
wide.
SEC. 57.56.05. MIXED STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.56.06. PROHIBITED TYPES.

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.

SEC. 57.56.07. FIRE PROTECTION.

In buildings or portions of buildings where matches are manufactured, packaged, or


stored, portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with Division 140 of
this article.
DIVISION 57
INDOOR STORAGE OF COMBUSTIBLES

Section

57.57.01 Scope.

57.57.02 Definitions for Indoor Storage.

57.57.03 Indoor Storage.

57.57.04 Maintenance and Housekeeping.

57.57.05 Fire Protection.

57.57.06 Storage Area Prohibitions.

SEC. 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.

SEC. 57.57.02. DEFINITIONS FOR INDOOR STORAGE.

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.

Main Aisle – An unobstructed way of egress at least eight feet in width.

Side Aisle – An unobstructed secondary way of egress not less than four feet in width
and transecting Main Aisles.

SEC. 57.57.03. INDOOR STORAGE.

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.

2. The height of piles of materials, tiers of shelving, or racks shall be maintained in


ratio to the width of the aisles. With minimum Main or Side Aisle width, the height shall
not exceed 15 feet. When the height is increased, the Main and Side Aisles shall be
increased in width three inches for each foot of increased height.

3. In unsprinklered buildings, piles of materials, tiers of shelving, or racks shall


have their highest point at least three feet below the ceiling, lowest chords, beams,
girders, or other roof support trusses which may obstruct the effective application of
water from hose streams. Piles of materials extending above and between the lowest roof
support trusses shall have a minimum three feet of clear space from the roof support
trusses.

4. In sprinklered buildings, piles of materials, tiers of shelving, or racks shall have


their highest point at least 18 inches below automatic sprinkler heads. Where storage
consists of large, tightly-packed piles of baled, sacked, or cased material, the distance
below sprinkler heads shall be a minimum of three feet.

5. Wood pallets and/or non-expanded polyethylene solid deck pallets:

a. Pallet piles shall be stored no higher than six feet.

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.

c. The storage height of pallets may be increased up to 20 feet in height providing


the Storage Area meets the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 61 (Sprinkler Density
Requirements for Pallet Storage).

D. Clearance From Exposures:


1. A clearance of at least 18 inches shall be maintained between stored materials
and lighting fixtures.

2. An unobstructed clearance of at least two feet shall be maintained between stored


materials, which may swell or expand with the absorption of water and building walls.

3. Materials which are particularly susceptible to water damage shall be stored on


skids, dunnage, pallets, or elevated platforms, maintaining at least four inches of
clearance from the floor.

4. Stored materials shall be arranged so as to allow drainage of floor areas through


floor drains or wall scuppers.

SEC. 57.57.04. MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEKEEPING.

A. Material-Handling Equipment: Motorized material-handling equipment shall be


of a type designed for use in accordance with the hazards of the location in which it is
used in compliance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 49. It shall be serviced, repaired, and
stored in other than Single Storage Areas.

B. Related Activities: An area used for non-storage activities shall be separated


from the Storage Area by a minimum distance of 10 feet when non-storage activities
include:

1. Repairing of crates, boxes, and other containers.

2. Repacking operations.

C. Smoking Restrictions: Smoking shall be prohibited in storage areas except in


designated locations. Such location shall be equipped with receptacles for smoking
refuse. “NO SMOKING” and “SMOKING PROHIBITED” signs shall be posted where
appropriate. The owner, operator, or person in charge or control shall enforce all
smoking restrictions in storage areas.

D. Aisle Maintenance:

1. Aisles and entrances shall be kept free of storage and equipment not being
handled or operated.

2. Storage piling and blocking shall be maintained to prevent materials from


accidentally falling into aisles or clearance areas.

3. Stored materials shall not be piled so as to create overhanging or bridging of


Main Aisles or Side Aisles.
4. Hazardous refuse shall be removed from aisles and properly stored or disposed of
in accordance with Division 21 of this article.

E. Welding, Cutting, and Heating:

1. Welding or cutting operations within a storage facility shall be regulated in


accordance with Division 20 of this article.

2. Heating appliances for Storage Areas shall be regulated in accordance with


Division 20 of this article.

SEC. 57.57.05. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. Portable Fire Extinguishers:

1. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided, installed, and distributed in Storage


Areas in accordance with Division 140 of this article.

2. Access to portable fire extinguishers in Storage Areas shall be served by either a


Main Aisle, Side Aisle, or an aisle with a minimum width of three feet.

B. Sprinkler Valves, Standpipes, and Other Fire Protection Equipment: Access to


sprinkler valves, standpipes, and other fire protection equipment provided in storage
areas shall be served by either a Main Aisle, Side Aisle, or an aisle with a minimum
width of three feet.

SEC. 57.57.06. STORAGE AREA PROHIBITIONS.

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. General Prohibited Areas:

1. The storing or keeping of any combustible merchandise, materials, or equipment in


any subfloor area, attic, boiler room, mechanical room, heating equipment room, water
heater closet or electrical panel room in a manner which would create or constitute a fire
hazard is prohibited.

2. Use of Space Under Stairways:


a. There shall be no enclosed usable space under stairways in an exit enclosure
(enclosed stairshafts serving three or more stories), nor shall the open space under such
stairways be used for any, purpose.

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).

C. Spontaneous Heating: The placing or arranging of any combustible materials in


any Single Storage Area in a manner which may cause or contribute to spontaneous
heating of the material is prohibited.

D. Incompatible Materials: The placing or arranging together in any Single Storage


Area of materials having incompatible characteristics is prohibited.

E. Basement Storage: The storage of combustible material in basements shall be


prohibited except in those basements which are protected by an automatic sprinkler
system in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code). Such material
shall not be stored in a manner which creates a fire hazard.
DIVISION 58
OUTDOOR STORAGE OF COMBUSTIBLES

Section

57.58.01 Scope.

57.58.02 Definitions for Outdoor Storage.

57.58.03 General Storage Requirements.

57.58.04 Storage Height.

57.58.05 Drainage.

57.58.06 Maintenance and Housekeeping.

57.58.07 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.58.01. SCOPE.

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.

2. All yards required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) shall be


maintained unoccupied and unobstructed by the storage of combustible materials.

SEC. 57.58.02. DEFINITIONS FOR OUTDOOR STORAGE.

The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be construed as
defined in this section.

Access Driveway – An all-weather hard-surface roadway of not less than 20 feet in


width and capable of supporting Fire Department apparatus.

Main Aisle – An unobstructed way of egress not less than 10 feet in width.

Non-storage Area – An area separated from storage areas by a distance of at least 10


feet and used for the servicing, repair, and storing of material-handling equipment, the
repairing of crates, boxes, and other containers, and for repacking operations.
Side Aisle – An unobstructed secondary way of egress not less than five feet in width
and transecting a main aisle.

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.

SEC. 57.58.03. GENERAL STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.

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.

C. Single Storage Areas shall be regulated as follows:

1. Areas shall be separated from property lines, streets, alleys, or public way by
Side Aisles.

2. Areas shall be separated from other Single Storage Areas by an Access


Driveway.

D. Storage Piles within Single Storage Areas shall be regulated as follows:

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.

3. Storage Piles shall be within 65 feet of a Main Aisle.

4. Storage Piles shall be a minimum of 15 feet from openings in buildings.

5. Main Aisles shall be accessible 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.

SEC. 57.58.04. STORAGE HEIGHT.

The height of a Storage Pile shall not exceed 15 feet.

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.

SEC. 57.58.05. DRAINAGE.

Stored material shall be arranged to facilitate and promote drainage away from such
stored materials and buildings.

SEC. 57.58.06. MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEKEEPING.

A. Material-handling equipment shall be serviced, repaired, and stored in non-


storage areas.

B. Smoking Restrictions:

1. No person shall smoke, throw or deposit any lighted or smoldering substance in


any place where “NO SMOKING” signs are posted or in any other place where smoking
would occasion or constitute a fire hazard. The owner or operator or person in charge or
control shall be responsible for the control of smoking.

2. Areas shall be designated where smoking is permitted and equipped with


receptacles for smoking refuse.

3. “NO SMOKING” and “SMOKING PERMITTED” signs shall be posted where


appropriate.

C. Aisle and Driveway Maintenance:

1. Aisles, driveways, and entrances shall be kept free of storage and equipment not
being handled or operated.

2. Stored or piled materials shall be maintained in such a manner as to prevent


displacement into aisles or adjacent areas.

3. Stored materials shall not be piled so as to create overhanging or bridging of


driveways, Main Aisles or Side Aisles.

SEC. 57.58.07. FIRE PROTECTION.

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and located in storage areas as prescribed
in Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 60
MOLTEN SOLIDS

Section

Molten Salt Baths

57.60.01 General Safety Precautions.

57.60.02 Fuel and Temperature Controls.

57.60.03 Housekeeping.

57.60.04 Removal of Sludge and Extraneous Materials.

57.60.05 Melting the Bath.

57.60.06 Quenching Tanks.

57.60.07 Disposal of Salts.

57.60.08 Special Precautions for Nitrate and Nitrite Baths.

57.60.09 Storage of Salts.

57.60.11 Fire Protection.

57.60.12 Signs.

Molten Solids

57.60.20 Location of Equipment.

57.60.21 Floors.

57.60.22 Separation.

57.60.23 Heating of Kettles.

57.60.24 Venting.

57.60.25 Signs.

57.60.26 Closed Heat Transfer Systems.

57.60.27 Fire Protection.


MOLTEN SALT BATHS

SEC. 57.60.01. GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.

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.

B. Ventilation Hoods: An approved ventilation hood shall be installed over molten


salt baths where the temperature of the ceiling may exceed 180°F.

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.

D. Noncombustible Covers: Molten salt baths shall be provided with


noncombustible covers which shall be in place during periods of non-use and at the end
of each working day. This section does not prohibit the use of graphite covers for neutral
(chloride) baths.

SEC. 57.60.02. FUEL AND TEMPERATURE CONTROLS.

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.

SEC. 57.60.03. HOUSEKEEPING.


All combustible materials shall be kept clear of the bath area at all times except that
graphite carbon may be used in liquid carburizing (cyanide) baths and graphite covers
may be used on neutral (chloride) baths.

SEC. 57.60.04. REMOVAL OF SLUDGE AND EXTRANEOUS MATERIALS.

A. Accumulations of sediment, products of partial decomposition and articles which


have fallen to the bottom shall be removed as often as necessary to prevent uneven
heating of the bath. Because of possible thermite action, no article shall be allowed to
remain in the bottom of the pot.

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.

SEC. 57.60.05. MELTING 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.

SEC. 57.60.06. QUENCHING TANKS.

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.

SEC. 57.60.07. DISPOSAL OF SALTS.

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.

SEC. 57.60.08. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR NITRATE AND NITRITE BATHS.

A. Contamination of the Bath:

1. No salt containing cyanide shall be added to a nitrate bath.

2. Magnesium and its alloys shall not be heat treated in nitrate baths.

B. Heating of the Bath:

1. Solid fuels shall not be used to heat nitrate or nitrite 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

SEC. 57.60.09. STORAGE OF SALTS.

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.

B. Storage of nitrate or nitrite salts shall be in a separate fire-resistive and moisture-


free storage building, room or vault, and shall not be permitted in the furnace room.

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.

SEC. 57.60.11. FIRE PROTECTION.

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”.

SEC. 57.60.12. SIGNS.

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

SEC. 57.60.20. LOCATION OF EQUIPMENT.


A. Varnish kettles, oil stills, sulphur bleachers, agitators and any other hazardous
boiling kettles shall be located as approved by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.60.21. FLOORS.

Floors under kettles shall be of noncombustible materials. Such floor shall be


continued beyond the point where overflow of the kettle’s contents may come into
contact with combustible material.

SEC. 57.60.22. SEPARATION.

Kettles in excess of two gallons shall be located in a separate room or building of


noncombustible construction. Entrances to such rooms shall be equipped with fire doors
and sills to prevent the flow of accidentally spilled molten solids from flowing to other
parts of the building.

SEC. 57.60.23. HEATING OF KETTLES.

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.

SEC. 57.60.24. VENTING.

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:

A. Hoods shall be constructed of noncombustible metal not lighter than 18 gauge.


Such hoods shall be mounted in a rigid metal frame and shall be adequately supported.

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.

SEC. 57.60.25. SIGNS.

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”.

SEC. 57.60.26. CLOSED HEAT TRANSFER SYSTEMS.

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.

B. Piping shall be fabricated of material having sufficient strength to withstand all


pressure to which it may be subjected and shall readily conduct and dissipate heat.

C. Piping shall not fatigue, distort or rupture under conditions of sustained pressure
and prolonged heat.

D. Closed piping systems connected to positive displacement pumps, or which may


otherwise be subject to excessive pressure shall be provided with automatic by-pass
valves and relief vents. Such vents shall be set to operate at 125 percent of the working
pressure and shall terminate at safe locations outside.

SEC. 57.60.27. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

57.61.02 Permit Required.

57.61.03 Classification of Ovens and Furnaces.

57.61.04 Location.

57.61.05 Construction.

57.61.06 Ventilation.

57.61.07 Fuel-Fired Units.

57.61.08 Electrically Heated Units.

57.61.09 After-burner and Catalytic Combustion Systems.

57.61.10 Safety Controls.

57.61.11 Fire Protection Equipment.

57.61.12 Qualified Operator.

57.61.13 Operating Instructions.

57.61.14 Maintenance.

57.61.15 Lumber Drying Kilns.

57.61.16 Caul Boxes.

57.61.17 Miscellaneous Devices.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 57.61.01. SCOPE.


The provisions of this division shall regulate industrial ovens and furnaces which are
not an integral part of a building or room. In addition to the requirements specified
herein, ovens and furnaces shall be constructed, installed, and maintained in compliance
with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 7.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Drying ovens which are regulated by Division 84 of this article.

2. Warm-air furnaces used for comfort heating.

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).

SEC. 57.61.02. PERMIT REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.61.03. CLASSIFICATION OF OVENS AND FURNACES.

The standard for the location, design, and construction of ovens and furnaces is set
forth under the following classifications:

Class A: Ovens and furnaces are heat utilization equipment operating at


approximately atmospheric pressure wherein there is a potential explosion and/or fire
hazard when flammable vapors or combustible materials are processed or heated in the
oven. Such materials which produce flammable residues and/or volatiles in sufficient
quantities to present a hazard shall be installed and ventilated according to Division 84 of
this article.

Class B: Ovens and furnaces are heat utilization equipment operating at


approximately atmospheric pressure wherein there are no flammable vapors or
combustible materials being heated.

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.

Class D: Furnaces are heat utilization equipment which operate at a vacuum, at


temperatures above ambient, and at pressures below atmospheric, using any type of
heating system. These furnaces may include the use of special atmospheres.
SEC. 57.61.04. LOCATION.

A. Ovens and furnaces and related equipment shall be installed in an approved


location with consideration to the possibility of fire or explosion from overheating,
spillage of molten metal, ignition of quench oil or hydraulic oil, overheating of material
inside, or from the escape of fuel.

B. Ovens and furnaces shall be located at or above-grade to make maximum use of


natural ventilation and to minimize restrictions to adequate explosion relief and sufficient
air supply for personnel.

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.

SEC. 57.61.05. CONSTRUCTION.

A. Ovens shall be constructed of noncombustible materials throughout, except


where the maximum oven-operating temperature is not more than 160° F. The amount of
insulation used in oven panel construction shall be enough to prevent the outside surface
from exceeding 160°F, or adequate guards shall be provided to protect personnel.

B. Class C furnaces which may contain flammable air-gas mixtures shall be


equipped with explosion relief venting in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 27.

C. The building or room housing Class C furnaces which have flammable


atmospheres shall be provided with explosion-relief venting in accordance with L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 27.

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:

1. All duct work shall be constructed of noncombustible material.

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.

SEC. 57.61.06. VENTILATION.

A. Ovens or furnaces in which flammable or toxic vapors are liberated or through


which products of combustion are circulated shall be ventilated by the introduction of a
supply of fresh air properly ventilated to outdoor atmosphere. Discharge ducts shall not
terminate within 10 feet measured horizontally from any door, window, or combustible
wall of any building.

B. Ovens or furnaces heated by electric-resistance heaters or by combustion of any


fuel shall have the air supply and exhaust fans electrically or mechanically interlocked to
prevent operation of the heating units unless the air supply and exhaust fans are
operating.

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.

D. Exhaust duct opening shall be located in the area of greatest concentration of


vapors.

E. All exhaust shall be by mechanical means using power-driven fans.

F. In addition to the requirements herein specified, venting and clearance


requirements for ovens and/or furnaces shall be in accordance with Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code).

SEC. 57.61.07. FUEL-FIRED UNITS.

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.

C. Pressure Regulator: A pressure regulator shall be furnished whenever the plant


supply pressure exceeds that required for proper burner operation or whenever the plant
supply is subject to excessive fluctuations. Regulators shall be vented to outdoors, or
other safe location, with the terminating end protected against water entry and bug
screened. Vent pipes shall be of adequate size to assure proper regulator operation.

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).

E. Flow-control Valves: Flow-control valves of appropriate design shall be used to


change the rate of flow of pressurized combustible air and/or fuel where applicable.
Where the minimum and/or maximum flow of combustion air and/or fuel is critical to the
safe operation of the burner, flow valves shall be equipped with an appropriate limiting
means and with a locking device to prevent an unintentional change in the setting.

SEC. 57.61.08. ELECTRICALLY HEATED UNITS.

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).

SEC. 57.61.09. AFTER-BURNER AND CATALYTIC COMBUSTION SYSTEMS.

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.

3. Excess-temperature protection shall be provided in the form of increased air


dilution or interruption of the feed to the originating process.

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.

B. Catalytic Combustion System:


1. Catalytic-type systems, whether employed for oven heat supply, exhaust energy
recovery, or air pollution control shall be subject to the same safety precautions as other
direct-fired oven heaters or after-burner systems.

2. Exhaust from several ovens, kettles, or dryers may be manifolded to a single


catalytic unit only when a double-jacketed, heated manifold is provided, and there is no
provision for heat recovery to the original process.

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.

4. Adequate exhaust ventilation shall be provided to maintain vapor-air mixtures


below 50 percent of the lower flammable limit. Proper interlocking devices shall be
installed to automatically shut down the fuel input and the conveyor whenever this point
is reached.

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.

SEC. 57.61.10. SAFETY CONTROLS.

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.

SEC. 57.61.11. FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT.

Approved portable fire extinguishers shall be provided near the oven or furnace,
heater, and related equipment in accordance with Division 140 of this article.

SEC. 57.61.12. QUALIFIED OPERATOR.

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.

Operating instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer shall be posted at the


equipment for reference. These instructions shall include schematic piping and wiring
diagrams, and the following:

1. Start-up procedures.

2. Shutdown procedures.

3. Emergency procedures.

4. Maintenance procedures.

SEC. 57.61.14. MAINTENANCE.

A. Regularly scheduled inspection and maintenance of all safety devices shall be


performed weekly to insure that such devices are maintained in good repair at all times.

B. Safety devices shall be guarded against physical damage and inadvertent


tampering.

C. Safety devices shall not be shorted-out or bypassed.

D. All ovens or furnaces, ducts, pipes, fans, motors, and other equipment shall be
kept free from deposits of residue.

SEC. 57.61.15. LUMBER DRYING KILNS.

A. Construction: Lumber drying kilns shall be of fire-resistive or heavy timber


construction only. Direct-fired kilns shall be considered similar to a Class A oven in that
they shall be equipped with all the combustion controls normally required for drying
ovens where the heating fuel is introduced into the heating enclosure. Indirect-heated
kilns utilizing steam coils as heat exchangers and having controlled humidity are
considered to be of low hazard.

B. Fire Protection: Lumber-drying kilns shall be equipped with automatic sprinkler


systems installed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).
Sprinkler coverage shall extend to include houses and control rooms.

SEC. 57.61.16. CAUL BOXES.

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.

57.70.02 Explosive Materials – Sale Report.

57.70.03 Blasting Agents – General.

Storage of Explosive Materials

57.70.10 General Requirements.

57.70.11 Explosives Vaults.

57.70.12 Portable Magazines.

57.70.13 Black Sporting Powder.

57.70.20 Manufacturing of Explosive Materials Prohibited.

57.70.21 Manufacture of Articles Containing Explosive Materials.

Blasting

57.70.30 Permit Required.

57.70.31 Certificate of Fitness Required.

57.70.32 Blasting – General Precautions.

57.70.33 Loading Explosive Materials – General.

57.70.34 Blasting Inspection.

Transportation of Explosive Materials

57.70.40 Scope.

57.70.41 Permits and Fees.

57.70.42 Department of Transportation Regulations.


57.70.43 Vehicles for Transporting Explosives.

57.70.45 Equipment Required.

57.70.46 Maintenance of Vehicles.

57.70.47 Prohibited Acts.

57.70.48 Special Operating Requirements.

57.70.49 Emergency Action.

57.70.50 Packing and Labeling.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

SEC. 57.70.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.70.02. EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS – SALE REPORT.

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.

SEC. 57.70.03. BLASTING AGENTS – GENERAL.

The storage, processing, use or transportation of blasting agents shall be regulated in


the same manner as explosive materials.

STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS

SEC. 57.70.10. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

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.

3. During blasting operations.

B. No person having any explosive materials in his or her possession or control


shall under any circumstances permit or allow any grains or particles of explosives to be
or remain on the outside of, or about, the containers in which the explosive materials are
kept.

C. Except while being transported, containers of explosive materials shall be kept or


stored in an explosive vault or in an explosives magazine.

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.

SEC. 57.70.11. EXPLOSIVES VAULTS.

A. Explosive materials shall be stored in an explosives vault.

EXCEPTION:

Explosive materials in temporary storage for immediate use may be stored in a


portable magazine.

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).

D. A legible printed sign with the words “EXPLOSIVES VAULT –


DANGEROUS” in letters not less than six inches high shall be posted in conspicuous
locations on each side of the entrance to any aboveground explosives vault and at the
entrance to any underground explosives vault.

E. No match, fire, or lighting device of any kind except an electric flashlight or


electric lantern shall at any time be taken into an explosives vault.

F. No package or container of explosives shall at any time be opened in any


explosives vault.
G. Igniters, detonators, fuzes, boosters, or other initiating devices shall not be stored
in the same explosives vault with explosive materials.

H. When explosive materials or initiating devices (igniters, detonators, fuzes, etc.)


are removed from an explosives vault, those which have been longest in the vault shall be
removed first.

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.

SEC. 57.70.12. PORTABLE MAGAZINES.

A. Portable magazines may be used for the transportation or temporary storage of


explosive materials.

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.

D. Portable magazines shall be so located and so protected as to prevent accidental


impact from vehicles or falling objects.

E. Igniters, detonators, fuzes, boosters, or other initiating devices shall not be stored
or transported in the same portable magazine with other explosive materials.

F. Portable magazines left at locations where no persons is in constant attendance


shall be secured in place.

G. Except when necessarily opened for use by authorized persons, portable


magazines shall be kept closed and securely locked at all times.

SEC. 57.70.13. BLACK SPORTING POWDER.


The provisions of this section and applicable provisions of this division shall apply to
the storage and display of black sporting powder.

A. Containers: Black sporting powder shall be stored in shipping containers


approved by the D.O.T.

B. Storage Requirements:

1. Commercial stocks of black sporting powder shall be stored indoors.

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.

SEC. 57.70.20. MANUFACTURING OF EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS PROHIBITED.

A. The manufacture of explosive materials is prohibited.

B. Every person manufacturing, processing, assembling, or fabricating articles or


devices containing explosive materials shall comply with the provisions of this article,
the Comprehensive Zoning Plan of the City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Building
Code, the Los Angeles Municipal Code, and all other applicable laws.

SEC. 57.70.21. MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES CONTAINING EXPLOSIVE


MATERIALS.

Every person manufacturing, processing, assembling, or fabricating articles containing


explosive materials shall comply with all of the provisions of this section.

A. General Requirements:

1. No unit or separate article of any manufactured or assembled explosive material


shall contain more than one-half pound of explosive material.

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.

4. Smoking is prohibited in locations where explosive materials are present.


Matches, lighters, smoking material and other sources of ignition are not permitted in
such locations.

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.

8. The maximum permissible quantities of explosive materials allowed by


Subdivisions 6 and 7 of Subsection A of this section shall be clearly indicated with
suitable signs with letters not less than three inches high. No person shall allow the
amount of explosive materials in any one room or building to exceed the amount set forth
upon the posted sign for that room or building.

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.

11. Spilled or dropped explosives shall be cleaned up at once before other


operations are continued. Damaged or waste explosive materials, shipping containers,
cleaning rags, and other materials contaminated with explosive materials shall be
disposed of in accordance with the recommended practices established by the
manufacturer of the explosive materials used.
B. Processing Safeguards:

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.

3. Benches and other fixtures shall be of noncombustible materials provided,


however, that staticproof (conductive) coverings may be used.

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.

5. Mechanical screening, mixing, or blending operations involving explosive


materials shall only be carried on in isolated areas or buildings used exclusively for such
purposes, and, wherever practicable, such operations shall be carried on with no
personnel present during the period the machinery is operating. At least one set of power
controls shall be remotely located at a safe point from the screening, mixing, or blending
area. If the operation requires the presence of employees, only the least practicable
number of employees shall be present, except that additional employees may be present
for purposes of instruction.

6. Means shall be provided whereby accumulated static electricity is removed from


hand trucks, buggies, and similar devices before they enter a building or work area.

7. Wet processes shall be used wherever practicable in mixing explosive materials.

8. Maintenance or repair work on machines shall not be done while explosive


materials are present in a building or work area; provided. however, that this shall not
prohibit minor adjustments or repairs where it would not be practicable to clear the
building or work area, nor shall it prohibit emergency maintenance necessary to secure
immediate safety.

9. Suitable exterior barricades, either natural or artificial, shall be provided on


pressure relief sides of building. Due consideration shall be given to the effects of
probable flying missiles with particular attention to the safety of personnel.

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.

D. Special Requirements: All operations or activity on a site within which explosive


materials are used, stored, or handled shall be subject to such further additional or more
restrictive requirements or conditions as the Department may determine; these may
include requirements or conditions as to arrangements within buildings, including
requirements for protective structures or devices, rules and regulations respecting
smoking, fires, combustion of any kind, amounts and arrangements of material number
and qualifications of employees or other persons on the premises, or any other condition,
requirement, rule, or regulation determined by the Department to be necessary or
appropriate for the protection of persons or property. Any such determination may be
modified, amended, or enlarged, or superseded as the Department may at any time
determine. The effective date and time of each determination shall be stated therein and
any determination which effects a change in one previously fixed may be effective in 24
hours after service thereof, or later, as the officer executing it may determine. Failure to
comply with or obey any determination shall immediately effect a revocation of any
Permit held by the person to whom such determination is addressed.

BLASTING

SEC. 57.70.30. PERMIT REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.70.31. CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.70.32. BLASTING – GENERAL PRECAUTIONS.

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.

F. No blasting or preparation for blasting shall be done during the approach or


progress of an electrical storm.

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.

SEC. 57.70.33. LOADING EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS – GENERAL.

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.

B. Blasting operations shall be carried on with the smallest practical number of


persons present and no one but authorized personnel shall be allowed in the blast area.

C. Under no circumstances shall the amount of explosive materials taken into a


blast area exceed the amount estimated by the Blasting Operator as necessary for the
blast.
D. Explosive materials shall be stacked in piles not less than 25 feet from the
nearest holes being loaded and so spaced and distributed as to prevent propagation of an
explosion between any two piles in the event of a premature detonation in any portion of
the blast area.

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.

M. When loading explosive materials in a bore hole, tamping shall be by pressure


or light blows only and never by excessive ramming.

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.

SEC. 57.70.34. BLASTING INSPECTION.

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.

TRANSPORTATION OF EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS

SEC. 57.70.40. SCOPE.

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:

1. Rail common carriers transporting dangerous cargo in compliance with the


provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 25; and aircraft complying with applicable
regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration.

2. Transportation within the confines of a room, building or plant.

3. Signaling devices, such as flares, colored lights, fusees or other devices


customarily used by railroads, public carriers, aircraft, and motor vehicles, or torpedoes
customarily used by railroads for signaling purposes.

4. Small arms ammunition (Under .75 calibre).

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.

6. Transportation of explosive materials by the U.S. Department of Defense, or by


Police or Fire Departments in the performance of duty.

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.

NOTE: Any vehicle regularly or temporarily used in carrying or transporting


explosive materials shall, in addition to the above provisions, be regulated by the
applicable provisions of the California Vehicle Code and the California Health and Safety
Code, and is required to comply therewith.

SEC. 57.70.41. PERMITS AND FEES.

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.

SEC. 57.70.42. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGULATIONS.

All applicable provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 5 shall apply to the transportation
of explosive materials within the City.

SEC. 57.70.43. VEHICLES FOR TRANSPORTING EXPLOSIVES.

A. The use of passenger vehicles for the transporting of explosive materials is


prohibited, except for the transporting of samples and other small quantities not to exceed
a total of five pounds.

B. Vehicles used for the transportation of explosive materials shall be equipped


with springs, and have a solid floor with well-maintained interior surfaces. Such vehicle
shall have a sturdy wooden body with wooden sides and ends and with no exposed
ferrous metal on the inside thereof where explosive materials are carried, except that
portable magazines may be transported in vehicles having exposed metal parts. The body
shall be completely enclosed, or shall be provided with a flame-resistant moisture-
resistant tarpaulin for total covering of all explosive materials carried.

SEC. 57.70.45. EQUIPMENT REQUIRED.

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. Warning placards designed and constructed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard


No. 25 shall be displayed on each side, and at the front and rear of vehicles carrying
explosive materials.
C. At least two approved portable fire extinguishers shall be carried in accessible
locations on every vehicle. One extinguisher shall have a Class 2A rating and the other
shall have a Class l0B:C rating.

D. Unless otherwise specifically provided for by this division, or otherwise


specifically provided by State law or regulations promulgated thereunder, the
transportation of explosive materials shall comply with all requirements of L.A.F.D.
Standard No. 25.

SEC. 57.70.46. MAINTENANCE OF VEHICLES.

Vehicles used for the transportation of explosive materials shall be properly


maintained, including brakes, headlights, warning devices, and other parts thereof. The
chassis, motor, body, and all other parts of the vehicle shall be clean and free from
surplus oil and grease. Gasoline tank and piping shall be secure and without leaks.
Electric wiring shall be completely insulated and properly secured.

SEC. 57.70.47. PROHIBITED ACTS.

A. No person shall carry matches, or any other flame-producing device, firearms or


loaded cartridges while on or near a vehicle loaded with explosive materials.

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.

E. No motor vehicle transporting explosive materials shall be left unattended upon


any street or highway except in extreme emergency. Such vehicle shall be deemed
attended whenever the person in charge thereof is in or upon the vehicle, or is in a
position to observe the vehicle at all times.

SEC. 57.70.48. SPECIAL OPERATING REQUIREMENTS.

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.

B. Hours of Transportation: Explosive materials shall not be transported during the


hours from 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M., nor from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
C. Parking or Stopping: Except in emergency or as may be required by traffic
regulations, vehicles carrying explosive materials shall not be stopped or parked during
the course of transit until the point of delivery has been reached.

D. Constant Attendance: All vehicles or group of vehicles transporting explosive


materials shall be attended by at least one competent person, and shall not be left standing
unless at least one certified person remains at all times in charge thereof, or until all
explosive materials have been removed therefrom.

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.

F. Repairs: Vehicles loaded with explosive materials shall not be


5. There shall not be included in any cargo of explosive materials any flammable
liquids, acids, corrosive liquids, oxidizers or combustible materials (other than the
explosive materials themselves, which may have such characteristics).
DIVISION 71
UNSTABLE MATERIALS

Section

General Requirements

57.71.01 Scope.

57.71.02 Permit Required.

57.71.03 Permit Applications.

57.71.04 Permits – Granting – Special Provisions.

57.71.05 Permit Limitations.

Storage of Unstable Materials

57.71.10 General Requirements.

57.71.11 Containers.

57.71.12 Separation.

57.71.13 Static Electricity.

57.71.14 Inspection and Cleaning.

57.71.15 Gauge Glasses.

57.71.16 Working Supply.

Safety Controls

57.71.20 Stabilization.

57.71.21 Contamination.

57.71.22 Inert Gas.

57.71.23 Polymer Content.

57.71.24 Alarm Systems.

57.71.25 Temperature Controls.


57.71.26 Disposal Requirements.

57.71.27 Fire Protection Systems.

57.71.28 Warning Placards and Signs.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 57.71.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.71.02. PERMIT REQUIRED.

No person shall store, process, or handle any unstable material without a Permit as set
forth in Division 4 of this article.

SEC. 57.71.03. PERMIT APPLICATIONS.

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.

B. Every application for a Permit in connection with materials or processes which


are considered as “trade secrets” shall contain sufficient information and data to enable
the Chief to evaluate the fire and explosion hazard.

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.

SEC. 57.71.04. PERMITS – GRANTING – SPECIAL PROVISIONS.


A. If the Department finds that no unreasonable hazard to life, limb, or property is
involved in the processing, storage, or handling of unstable materials, the Permit shall be
issued.

B. If the Department finds that the processing, storage, or handling of unstable


materials involves an unreasonable hazard to life, limb, or property, but can be
accomplished safely if certain precautions are taken, the Permit shall be granted after
such precautions have been taken. The Permit shall prescribe the manner and method in
which the processing, storage or handling shall be accomplished.

C. If the Department finds that the processing, storage, or handling of unstable


materials cannot be accomplished in a reasonably safe manner, the Permit shall be
denied.

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.

2. A report furnishing evidence that the manner of manufacture, processing, storage


or handling of the unstable materials in question is in accordance with recognized safe
practices, and that it involves no undue hazard to life, limb, or property:

3. A report stating the qualifications (including experience with and knowledge of


the particular material) of the person or persons who have been designated to supervise
such operations.

SEC. 57.71.05. PERMIT LIMITATIONS.

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.

C. The violation of any of the conditions of a Permit issued under authority of


Division 4, or the processing, storage, or handling of unstable materials without a Permit
when required therein shall constitute a misdemeanor as provided in Section 57.03.08 of
this article.

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

SEC. 57.71.10. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

A. No person shall store an aggregate quantity of unstable materials in excess of the


amount set forth in the Permit issued therefor.

B. Unstable materials shall be stored in approved containers only, as specified in


Section 57.71.11 herein.

C. Unstable materials shall be stored in such a manner as to minimize breakage,


leakage, or rupture of containers upon exposure to heat or water which may result in fire,
explosion, or other dangerous reaction which may jeopardize life, limb, or property.

D. Unless otherwise allowed by a Permit, unstable materials shall not be stored in


basements or below ground level.

SEC. 57.71.11. CONTAINERS.

A. Except as specifically modified by other provisions of this article, unstable


materials shall be stored or transported in atmospheric tanks, low pressure tanks, pressure
vessels, special vessels, shipping containers as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26, or
other approved containers.

B. The containers referred to in Subsection A of this section shall be constructed in


accordance with the applicable L.A.F.D. Standards listed in Division 7 of this article, or
in accordance with specifications approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.71.12. SEPARATION.

A. No person shall process, store, or handle unstable materials in such proximity to


other substances, or in such a manner as to create a risk of fire, explosion or other
dangerous reaction.

B. The method of separation under Subsection A above, shall be in accordance with


recognized safe practices and shall be set forth in the Permit issued therefor. In general,
the separation required may be accomplished by:

1. Separate storage buildings, rooms, vaults or cabinets, or

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

3. By provision of dikes, drains, flushing systems, etc.


SEC. 57.71.13. STATIC ELECTRICITY.

A. All filling or withdrawal lines on tanks or vessels containing liquid unstable


materials shall enter through or extend to the bottom of the tank or vessel to minimize the
possible generation of static electricity.

B. All tank, vessels, and pipe lines shall be grounded or bonded in an approved
manner to prevent the accumulation of static electricity.

SEC. 57.71.14. INSPECTION AND CLEANING.

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.

SEC. 57.71.15. GAUGE GLASSES.

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.

SEC. 57.71.16. WORKING SUPPLY.

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

SEC. 57.71.20. STABILIZATION.

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.

SEC. 57.71.21. CONTAMINATION.

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.

A. Liquid unstable materials which are subject to violent or dangerous


decomposition in the vapor phase shall be blanketed with an approved inert gas when
stored in tanks or vessels, unless other approved control methods are provided.

B. Liquid unstable materials which are subject to violent or dangerous


polymerization in the vapor phase shall be blanketed with an approved inert gas when
stored in tanks or vessels, unless other approved control methods are provided.

SEC. 57.71.23. POLYMER CONTENT.

Monomers subject to violent or dangerous polymerization shall be periodically


checked for polymer content and also for inhibitor content if any.

SEC. 57.71.24. ALARM SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.71.25. TEMPERATURE CONTROLS.

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:

A. Refrigeration systems for maintaining the unstable materials at or below pre-


determined temperature levels.

B. Insulation for the tanks or vessels.

C. Water spray systems for cooling tanks or vessels.

D. Circulation systems to prevent the formation of “pockets” where decomposition,


polymerization, etc., may start.

E. Systems for emergency disposal, dilution, or addition of inhibitors.

SEC. 57.71.26. DISPOSAL REQUIREMENTS.

A. Spilled unstable materials and discarded containers which have contained


unstable materials shall be immediately removed and safely disposed of.

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.

SEC. 57.71.27. FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.71.28. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Whenever unstable materials are processed or stored in quantities requiring a


Permit under Division 4 of this article, warning placards designed and constructed as
specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted at the following
locations:

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.

57.72.03 Containers and Tanks.

57.72.04 Handling.

57.72.05 Warning Placards and Signs.

Storage

57.72.10 Separation.

57.72.11 Drum and Carboy Storage.

57.72.12 Tank Storage.

57.72.13 Yard Storage.

Processing

57.72.20 Pressure Dispensing.

57.72.21 Working Supply.

57.72.22 Water Shields.

57.72.23 Open Tanks and Vats.

Safeguards

57.72.30 Dikes and Drains.

57.72.31 Dilution and Neutralization.

57.72.32 Special Equipment.

Transportation of Corrosive Materials


57.72.40 Tank Trucks for Corrosive Materials.

57.72.41 Tank Cars.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 57.72.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.72.02. DEFINITION.

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.

SEC. 57.72.03. CONTAINERS AND TANKS.

A. Containers used for the storage, processing or transportation of corrosive


materials shall comply with the specifications of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26 or shall be
specifically approved by the Chief.

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:

1. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 12.

2. L.A.F.D. Standard No. 19.

3. Specifications MC310 or MC311 of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 26.

When tanks are not designed in compliance with these specific Standards, the design
specifications shall be approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.72.04. HANDLING.


No person shall handle corrosive materials in a manner that will give rise to an
unreasonable danger to life or property by reason of chemical action, fire or explosion.

SEC. 57.72.05. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Whenever corrosive materials are stored or processed in quantities requiring a


Permit under Division 4 of this article, warning placards designed and constructed as
specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted in the following
locations:

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.

C. Vehicles used for the transportation of corrosive materials shall display a


warning placard designed, constructed, and affixed as specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No.
25 and shall be consistent with the provisions of State laws and regulations.

STORAGE

SEC. 57.72.10. SEPARATION.

Corrosive materials shall be stored separately from oxidizing materials, flammable


solids, flammable liquids, flammable gases, combustible materials, and other non-
compatible materials. Such separation shall be accomplished by:

A. Separate storage buildings, rooms, vaults, cabinets, or barrier walls.

B. Distance Separation: Required distances vary depending upon whether storage is


outside or within a building. Such distances shall be approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.72.11. DRUM AND CARBOY 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.

B. Unless otherwise specifically authorized by the Chief, drum or carboys shall be


stored in rows not more than two containers in width, or the width of the pallet, if stored
on pallets. The aisles between such rows shall be of sufficient width to permit inspection
and removal of leaking drums or carboys.

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.

SEC. 57.72.12. TANK STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.72.13. YARD STORAGE.

The storage of corrosive materials outside of buildings shall be located not less than
five feet from buildings or property lines.
PROCESSING

SEC. 57.72.20. PRESSURE DISPENSING.

Gas pressure shall not be used to empty containers of corrosive materials unless such
containers are designed to withstand the pressure used.

SEC. 57.72.21. WORKING SUPPLY.

Corrosive materials stored in reserve in work areas shall be limited to a sufficient


supply for one eight-hour shift.

SEC. 57.72.22. WATER SHIELDS.

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.

SEC. 57.72.23. OPEN TANKS AND VATS.

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.

C. Tubular gauges on stationary tanks, vats, or containers which contain corrosive


materials shall be shielded to prevent liquid spray from endangering employees should
the gauge break. All such gauges shall be guarded when exposed to the hazard of being
broken by accidental impact and in all cases when located less than seven feet above or
three feet laterally from working levels or passageways. All such gauges shall be
provided with valves which can be readily closed in case of breakage. When practicable,
ball-check or other self-closing valves shall be used.

SAFEGUARDS

SEC. 57.72.30. DIKES AND DRAINS.


Impounding basins or drainage facilities shall be provided where, in the opinion of the
Chief, accidental spillage or rupture of the container might endanger lives or property.

SEC. 57.72.31. DILUTION AND NEUTRALIZATION.

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.

B. A covered and labeled container of absorbent-neutralizer mixture suitable for the


neutralization and absorption of corrosive materials spills. There shall not be less than
one such container holding 50 pounds of an absorbent-neutralizer mixture.

SEC. 57.72.32. SPECIAL EQUIPMENT.

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.

TRANSPORTATION OF CORROSIVE MATERIALS

SEC. 57.72.40. TANK TRUCKS FOR CORROSIVE MATERIALS.

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.

SEC. 57.72.41. TANK CARS.

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

57.73.01 Handling of Oxidizing Materials.

57.73.02 Water-reactive Oxidizing Materials.

57.73.03 Harbor Facilities.

57.73.04 Housekeeping.

57.73.05 Smoking and Open Flames.

57.73.06 Prohibited Uses.

57.73.07 Warning Placards.

Storage of Oxidizing Materials

57.73.10 Separation.

57.73.11 Containers.

57.73.12 Drum Storage.

57.73.13 Bag Storage.

57.73.14 Bulk Storage.

57.73.15 Floors.

57.73.16 Yard Storage.

Processing of Oxidizing Materials

57.73.20 Explosives Production.

57.73.21 Wet Processes.

57.73.22 Quantity Limitation.

57.73.23 Dust from Oxidizing Materials.


GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 57.73.01. HANDLING OF OXIDIZING MATERIALS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

No person shall manufacture, store or transport oxidizing materials in a manner that


will give rise to an unreasonable danger to life or property by reason of fire or explosion.

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.

SEC. 57.73.02. WATER-REACTIVE OXIDIZING MATERIALS.

Water-reactive oxidizing materials shall be handled in a manner which will prevent


unreasonable risk or danger to life or property by accidental exposure to water or
moisture.

SEC. 57.73.03. HARBOR FACILITIES.

Oxidizing materials falling within the scope of “Dangerous Cargo” as defined by


Coast Guard regulations shall comply with Harbor and Fire Department regulations for
their handling in the Los Angeles Harbor Area.

SEC. 57.73.04. HOUSEKEEPING.

A. All rubbish, litter, and scrap dunnage shall be removed from storage areas, and
such storage areas shall be maintained clean and orderly.

B. Spilled oxidizing materials shall be immediately and safely picked up and


properly disposed of. Combustible surfaces impregnated with oxidizing materials shall
be thoroughly cleaned.

SEC. 57.73.05. SMOKING AND OPEN FLAMES.

In the absence of regularly designated smoking areas, smoking shall be prohibited


within 25 feet of the following locations:

A. Areas where oxidizing materials are being processed.

B. Areas where more than 500 pounds of oxidizing materials are stored.
SEC. 57.73.06. PROHIBITED USES.

No person shall use or apply solutions, compounds, or mixtures for weed-killing


purposes, which contain oxidizing materials in amounts sufficient to render the treated
weeds more flammable than in their normally dry condition.

SEC. 57.73.07. WARNING PLACARDS.

A. Wherever oxidizing materials are stored or processed in quantities requiring a


Permit under Division 4 of this article, warning placards designed and constructed as
specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted at the following
locations:

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.

C. Vehicles used for the transportation of oxidizing materials 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 provisions of State law and the regulations promulgated
thereunder that regulate the transportation of such material.

STORAGE OF OXIDIZING MATERIALS

SEC. 57.73.10. SEPARATION.

Oxidizing materials shall be stored separately from flammable liquids, flammable


solids, combustible materials, unstable materials, corrosive liquids, and such other non-
compatible materials as may be determined by the Chief. Such separation may be
accomplished by:

A. Separate storage buildings, rooms, vaults, or cabinets; or,

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.

B. Combustible containers which formerly contained oxidizing materials shall be


stored in a separate fire resistive room or in an approved isolated yard location pending
final safe disposal.

SEC. 57.73.12. DRUM STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.73.13. BAG STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.73.14. BULK STORAGE.

The storage of oxidizing materials in bulk shall comply with the following
requirements:

A. Bins shall be constructed of noncombustible materials and shall not exceed


1,000 cubic feet capacity.

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.

SEC. 57.73.15. FLOORS.

Oxidizing materials shall be stored on noncombustible floors or floors which have


been covered with noncombustible materials.

SEC. 57.73.16. YARD STORAGE.

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.

PROCESSING OF OXIDIZING MATERIALS

SEC. 57.73.20. EXPLOSIVES PRODUCTION.

The processing, mixing, or compounding of oxidizing materials with other chemicals


in the production of explosives and pyrotechnics, or in any other manner which might
create the risk of an explosion, or which would create a product that is subject to
explosion, shall compIy with the provisions of Division 70 or 71 of this article,
whichever is applicable.

SEC. 57.73.21. WET PROCESSES.


Where oxidizing materials are mixed with combustible materials, mixing operations
shall be carried out wet and mixtures shall be handled or processed wet whenever
practicable.

SEC. 57.73.22. QUANTITY LIMITATION.

Amounts of oxidizing material in operations involving mixing with combustible


material shall be kept to the smallest practical quantity. Unless approved by the Chief no
more than a four-hour supply of oxidizing material shall be kept at each work station.

SEC. 57.73.23. DUST FROM OXIDIZING MATERIALS.

Processes, machinery or equipment producing hazardous dust from oxidizing


materials shall be provided with an approved dust collection system.
DIVISION 74
TOXIC MATERIALS

Section

57.74.01 Scope.

57.74.03 Compliance.

57.74.04 Warning Placards and Signs.

57.74.05 Storage, Processing, and Use Requirements.

57.74.06 Smoking and Open Flame.

SEC. 57.74.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.74.03. COMPLIANCE.

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.

SEC. 57.74.04. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Whenever toxic materials are handled or stored in quantities requiring a Permit


under Division 4 of this article, warning placards designed and constructed as specified in
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted as follows:

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.

SEC. 57.74.05. STORAGE, PROCESSING, AND USE REQUIREMENTS.

No person shall store toxic materials in such a manner as to present an unreasonable


danger to health and/or life by reason of exposure of such chemicals to fire, explosion, or
other reactions which may release toxic materials.

A. Storage: Toxic materials shall be stored separately from flammable and


combustible liquids, flammable solids, combustible materials, unstable materials,
corrosive liquids, and such other non-compatible materials as may be determined by the
Chief. Such separation shall be accomplished by:

1. Separate storage buildings, rooms, vaults, or cabinets.

2. Isolated outside storage location approved by the Chief.

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.

4. Distance separation, the number of feet depending upon whether storage is


outside or inside a building. Such distance shall be approved by the Chief.

B. Ventilation: Every building or portion thereof in which toxic materials are


stored, processed, or used shall be equipped with natural or approved mechanical means
of ventilation sufficient to prevent the formation or retention of toxic vapors.

SEC. 57.74.06. SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME.

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.

57.75.02 Storage Requirements.

57.75.03 Container Covers

Acid-reactive Materials

57.75.10 General Storage.

Air-reactive Materials

57.75.20 General Requirements.

57.75.30 Warning Placards and Signs.

WATER-REACTIVE MATERIALS

SEC. 57.75.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.75.02. STORAGE REQUIREMENTS.

(Former Sec. 57.75.01 renumbered as Sec. 57.75.02 by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.
11/16/91.)

A. Containers of water-reactive materials shall be stored on a platform, shelf, pallet,


or skids not less than six inches above the floor.

B. Containers of water-reactive materials shall not be stored in the basement of a


building nor in any room or vault which is located below the adjoining ground or grade
level.
C. Water-reactive materials shall not be stored in areas equipped with automatic
sprinklers or beneath overhead water lines, except:

1. Water-reactive materials in sealed, waterproof containers.

2. Water-reactive materials stored in approved waterproof storage cabinets.

3. Water-reactive materials in open tanks or lines protected by a hood, shield, or


similar device approved by the Chief.

D. Materials with a water reactivity degree of 2 or higher as defined in L.A.F.D.


Standard No. 58 shall not be stored in the same area with other liquids.

SEC. 57.75.03. CONTAINER COVERS

(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

SEC. 57.75.10. GENERAL STORAGE.

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

SEC. 57.75.20. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

Air-reactive materials shall, unless otherwise approved by the Chief, be handled in an


inert gas, or within a closed system or under a suitable fluid which will prevent exposure
to air or other oxidizing gases.

SEC. 57.75.30. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Whenever hazardous materials (water-reactive materials, acid-reactive materials,


and air-reactive materials), are processed or stored in quantities requiring a Permit under
Division 4 of this article, warning placards designed and constructed as specified in
L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58 shall be conspicuously posted at the following locations:
1. At the entrance to any building and to any room where 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.

3. On the sides of or adjacent to tanks and vessels used for storage or processing of
hazardous materials.

B. Whenever hazardous materials water-reactive materials, acid-reactive materials,


and air-reactive materials), are processed or stored signs with letters not less than three
inches high on contrasting background stating, “WATER-REACTIVE
MATERIAL”, “ACID-REACTIVE MATERIAL”, and/or “AIR-REACTIVE
MATERIAL”, appropriately identifying that type of hazard or hazards involved, shall be
posted at any location inside a building and at any location within an area outside a
building where such materials are stored or processed, and at such other locations as may
be required by the Chief.

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.

57.76.02 Permit Required.

57.76.03 General Requirements.

57.76.04 Storage of Organic Peroxides.

57.76.05 Hazardous Materials Cabinet – Construction and Use.

57.76.06 Storage of Class 1, 2, or 3 Organic Peroxides.

57.76.07 Storage of Class 4 or 5 Organic Peroxides.

57.76.08 Refrigerators and Freezers.

57.76.09 Handling and Use of Organic Peroxides.

57.76.10 Sources of Ignition.

57.76.11 Warning Placards and Signs.

SEC. 57.76.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.76.02. PERMIT REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.76.03. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.


A. Chemical Manufacturers Association Data Sheets pertaining to organic
peroxides shall be supplied to the Chief by the user upon request.

B. Acetones shall not be used as an extender for ketone peroxides or for cleaning
equipment in which ketone peroxides have been used.

C. Containers used to hold organic peroxides, when completely emptied, shall be


removed to an outside storage area for disposal. Empty containers shall not be used for
any other purpose.

D. Spilled liquid and paste forms of peroxides shall be absorbed by a


noncombustible material such as vermiculite or perlite, swept up immediately, and
removed to an outside storage area for disposal.

E. Organic peroxides shall be separated from all sources of heat including steam
pipes, radiators, open flames or sparks, and solar radiation.

SEC. 57.76.04. STORAGE OF ORGANIC PEROXIDES.

A. The storage of organic peroxides shall be in accordance with the


recommendations found on Chemical Manufacturers Association Data Sheets and/or
shipping labels which have been prepared by the Chemical Manufacturers Association in
accordance with the Federal Hazardous Substance Labeling Act. Additional information
concerning degree of hazard, precautionary measures, actions to be followed or avoided,
and special storage requirements, shall be complied with in addition to the requirements
set forth in this division.

B. Organic peroxides shall be stored in their original shipping containers.

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.

SEC. 57.76.05. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS CABINET – CONSTRUCTION AND


USE.

A. Hazardous Materials Cabinets, as referred to herein, shall be constructed in


accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 40.

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.

SEC. 57.76.06. STORAGE OF CLASS 1, 2, OR 3 ORGANIC PEROXIDES.

A. Class 1, 2, or 3 organic peroxides in excess of 50 pounds of solid or 20 gallons


of liquid, but not more than 2,000 pounds of solid or 250 gallons of liquid, shall be stored
in an approved Group H-1 Occupancy with walls having not less than a two-hour fire-
resistive rating and constructed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building
Code). Such occupancy shall be provided with safeguards including but not limited to
refrigeration, explosion venting, automatic fire extinguishing system, and other safety
features that the Chief may deem necessary for fire and life safety.

B. Class 1, 2, or 3 organic peroxides in excess of 2,000 pounds of solid or 250


gallons of liquid shall be stored in a detached building classified as a Group H-l
Occupancy which shall be used exclusively for organic peroxides. This occupancy shall
have walls with not less than a two-hour fire-resistive rating and shall be constructed in
accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code). Such occupancy shall be
provided with refrigeration, explosion venting, automatic fire extinguishing system, and
such other safety features as the Chief deems necessary for fire and life safety. Such
detached storage building shall be located a minimum distance of 75 feet from any
building, street, property line, or other hazardous materials storage area.

SEC. 57.76.07. STORAGE OF CLASS 4 OR 5 ORGANIC PEROXIDES.

A. Class 4 organic peroxides in excess of 50 pounds of solid or 20 gallons of liquid


shall be stored in an approved Group H-3 Occupancy or a Hazardous Material Room
which has been constructed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building
Code). Such occupancy shall be provided with refrigeration, explosion venting,
automatic fire extinguishing system, and such other safety features as the Chief deems
necessary for fire and life safety.

B. Class 5 organic peroxides may be stored as combustible materials as regulated in


Division 57 or 58 of this article.

SEC. 57.76.08. REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS.

Refrigerators and freezers may be used for the storage of small quantities of organic
peroxides only under the following conditions:

A. The refrigerator or freezer shall be approved for the storage of hazardous


materials and all electrical equipment shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 9 of
L.A.M.C. (EIectrical Code) for hazardous locations.

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.

SEC. 57.76.09. HANDLING AND USE 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

D. Where Class 1, 2, or 3 peroxides are handled, there shall be provided electrical


wiring and equipment in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
All tanks, metal containers, and pipe lines shall be grounded or bonded in an approved
manner to prevent the accumulation of static electricity.

E. All supplies of organic peroxides shall be returned to proper storage locations at


the end of each work day.

SEC. 57.76.10. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

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.

SEC. 57.76.11. WARNING PLACARDS AND SIGNS.

A. Whenever organic peroxides are processed or stored in quantities requiring a


Permit under Division 4 of this article, warning placards designed and constructed as
specified in L.A.F.D. Standard No. 58, Table 76-A, shall be conspicuously posted at the
following locations.

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.

B. Signs with letters at least three inches in height on contrasting background


stating “ORGANIC PEROXIDES” shall be posted at all locations within a building and
at all locations within an area outside a building where such materials are processed or
stored, as well as other locations as may be required by the Chief.

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

WARNING PLACARD NUMBERING SYSTEM


Organic Peroxide Hazard Classification
Degree of Reactivity Hazard For Use on Warning Placards

Class 1
4

Class 2
4

Class 3
3

Class 4
2

Class 5
1

NOTE: Organic peroxides in Class 1 or 2 have been assigned a number 4 degree


because of their detonation and explosion characteristics.
DIVISION 79
DRY CLEANING PLANTS

Section

57.79.01 Scope.

57.79.02 Definitions.

57.79.03 Permits Required.

57.79.04 Classification.

57.79.05 Class I Dry Cleaning Plants.

57.79.06 Class II and III Dry Cleaning Plants.

57.79.10 Class IV Dry Cleaning Plants.

57.79.20 Class V Coin-operated, Self-service Dry Cleaning Plants.

SEC. 57.79.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.79.02. DEFINITIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.79.03. PERMITS REQUIRED.


A. No person shall operate or maintain any dry cleaning plant unless a valid Permit
as required by Division 4 of this article has been issued.

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.

SEC. 57.79.04. CLASSIFICATION.

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.

Class IV – Shall mean those plants or systems utilizing liquids classified as


noncombustible.

Class V – Shall mean those plants or systems utilizing liquids classified as


noncombustible and in which the dry cleaning is conducted by the public.

SEC. 57.79.05. CLASS I DRY CLEANING PLANTS.

New dry cleaning plants of the Class I type shall be prohibited.

SEC. 57.79.06. CLASS II AND III DRY CLEANING PLANTS.

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

4. Rooms Containing Open Flames: Fuel-burning equipment which generates an


open flame shall be separated from rooms in which solvents are used or stored by not less
than four-hour fire-resistive occupancy separations. Openings to such rooms shall be at
least 10 feet from any opening into rooms containing solvents.

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.

SEC. 57.79.10. CLASS IV DRY CLEANING PLANTS.

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:

1. Class IV plants shall be so designed, installed, and operated to reduce to a


reasonable and acceptable degree the toxicity or health hazards incident to the nature of
the solvents.

2. Only solvents approved for Class IV installations shall be used in any dry
cleaning machine or system designed for such solvents.

3. All solvent-handling equipment and components shall be constructed to prevent


leakage.

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:

1. Class IV plants shall be provided with ventilation adequate to maintain an


average solvent concentration anywhere within the plant: For plants using
perchlorethylene, not more than 100 PPM; for plants using fluorocarbon 113
(trichlorotrifluoroethane) not more than 1,000 PPM. Manually operated emergency
ventilation for spills or leaks shall be installed to provide an air change every five
minutes within 15 feet of Class IV equipment. The switch for this ventilation equipment
shall be readily accessible and clearly identified.

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.

5. All exhaust ventilation systems shall be installed in accordance with the


requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code), and no closer than 25
feet from any openings in other occupancies.

C. Pumps and Piping:

1. The transfer or circulation of solvent shall be through closed circuit pipes.


Except for gravity flow through pipes, pumps shall be used for the transfer of solvent.

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.

D. Dry Cleaning Units:


1. Dry cleaning units shall be provided with an automatically activated exhaust
ventilation system to maintain a minimum of 100 FPM air velocity through the loading
door whenever the door is open. An external ventilation shroud immediately outside the
loading door may be used, provided the airflow capacity in CFM is not less than 100
times the area in square feet of the door opening.

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.

E. Dry Tumblers and Cabinets:

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:

1. Filters operating above atmospheric pressure shall be A.S.M.E. approved


pressure vessels, or shall be constructed to withstand, without bursting, a pressure of five
times the maximum allowable working pressure, or to withstand, without yielding, a
pressure of two and one-half times the maximum allowable working pressure.

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.

3. Water separators shall be provided on stills to reduce the amount of water


entrapped with the distilled solvent.

4. Stills shall be equipped with a thermostatically controlled valve on the inlet


steam line. Such valve shall be automatically closed when the temperature of the cooling
water leaving the condensor exceeds: For perchlorethylene, 160°F.; and for fluorocarbon
113 (trichlorotrifluoroethylene), 95°F.

H. Operation:

1. Machines and equipment shall be operated in accordance with operating


instructions furnished by the machinery manufacturer. All employees shall be thoroughly
instructed as to the hazards involved in their departments and in the work they perform.

2. Flammable or combustible liquids used for spotting operations shall be in


approved safety cans of not more than one-gallon capacity with an aggregate amount not
exceeding 10 gallons.

3. The spotting, scouring, or brushing table or scrubbing tub shall be so located as


to ensure thorough and effective disposal of solvent vapors through an approved
ventilating system.

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.

SEC. 57.79.20. CLASS V COIN-OPERATED, SELF-SERVICE DRY CLEANING


PLANTS.

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:

1. Class V plants shall be so designed, installed and operated to reduce to a


reasonable and acceptable degree the toxicity or health hazards incident to the nature of
the solvents.

2. Only solvents approved for Class V installations shall be used in the dry cleaning
machines.

3. All solvent handling equipment and components shall be constructed to prevent


leakage.

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.

B. Ventilation, Light Power and Heat:

1. Class V plants shall be provided with adequate ventilation. There shall be a


minimum of air flow rate away from the customer areas as follows:
NUMBER OF DRY CLEANING UNITS
AIR FLOW PER UNIT-CFM

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.

2. A ventilation fan shall be installed in the service area to be used in case of a


serious solvent leak. The combination capacity of the ventilation required in Subdivision
1 above and this fan shall be not less than 500 CFM per dry cleaning machine. The
switch for this ventilation equipment shall be readily accessible and clearly identified.

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.

5. All exhaust ventilation systems shall be installed in accordance with the


requirements of Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Mechanical Code), and shall be located no
closer than 25 feet from any openings in other occupancy or business.

C. Pumps and Piping:

Section 57.79.10c of this division shall be applicable for Class V plants.

D. Dry Cleaning Units, Filters, and Stills:

1. The applicable provisions of Subsections D, F, and G of Section 57.79.10 of this


Division shall apply to dry cleaning units, filters, and stills used in Class V plants.

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.

3. Dry cleaning units shall be provided with an automatically activated exhaust


ventilation system to maintain a minimum of 100 FPM air velocity through the loading
door whenever the door is open.

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:

1. Operating instructions for customer use shall be posted in a conspicuous location


near the unit. A telephone number shall be listed for emergency assistance.

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.

5. Spotting operations using flammable or combustible liquids shall not be


permitted.

6. Customer areas shall be kept clean.

F. Fire Protection:

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of


Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 80
SPRAY PAINTING

Section

Construction, Use and Maintenance of Booths, Rooms and Tunnels

57.80.01 General Requirements.

57.80.02 Location of Spray Finishing Operations.

57.80.03 Interior Surfaces.

57.80.04 Glass.

57.80.05 Size.

57.80.06 Baffle Plates.

57.80.07 Floor Covering.

57.80.08 Spray Room.

57.80.09 Spray Booth or Spray Tunnel.

57.80.10 Dry Type over Spray Collectors.

57.80.11 Electrical Equipment.

57.80.12 Sources of Ignition.

Exhaust Systems

57.80.20 Requirements for Exhaust Systems.

57.80.21 Air Circulation.

Ducts

57.80.30 General Requirements.

57.80.31 Gauge of Metal.

57.80.32 Seams.

57.80.33 Insulating.
57.80.34 Supports.

57.80.35 Branch Ducts.

57.80.36 Cleanout Openings.

57.80.37 Duct Velocity.

57.80.38 Exhaust Duct Discharge Point.

Exhaust Fans and Motors

57.80.40 Supply of Air.

57.80.41 Fan Motors.

57.80.42 Control Switch.

57.80.43 Fan Shafts.

57.80.44 Fan Blades.

Heating of Booths, Rooms and Tunnels

57.80.50 General.

57.80.51 Drying Requirements.

57.80.52 Heating Spray Booths and Spray Rooms.

57.80.53 Infrared Drying.

Cleaning and Maintenance

57.80.60 Repair.

57.80.61 Cleaning.

57.80.62 Scraping.

57.80.63 Blowing down with Compressed Air.

57.80.64 Lacquer Finishes.

57.80.65 Bleaching Solutions.


57.80.66 Cleaning Solvents.

57.80.67 Disposal of Residue.

57.80.68 Combustible Material.

Quantity of Class I, II, and IIIA Liquids at Spray Booths, Rooms, or Tunnels

57.80.70 Gravity Flow.

57.80.72 Handling of Class I, II and IIIA Liquids.

57.80.73 Pressure Containers.

57.80.74 Quantity of Class I, II and IIIIA Liquids.

57.80.80 Fire Protection.

57.80.81 Location.

CONSTRUCTION, USE AND MAINTENANCE OF BOOTHS, ROOMS AND


TUNNELS

SEC. 57.80.01. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

No person shall apply or cause or permit the application of any flammable or


combustible liquids to anything in or on any premises through ejection by pressure from
any nozzle or orifice, unless the spray application is done in spray rooms, spray booths,
or spray tunnels as hereinafter provided.

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:

a. Ventilation is sufficient to remove explosive and flammable mixtures from all


portions of the building, and,

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,

b. Such spraying does not constitute a violation of any law or regulation.

SEC. 57.80.02. LOCATION OF SPRAY FINISHING OPERATIONS.

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 decorating or painting of the interior or exterior surface of a building.

SEC. 57.80.03. INTERIOR SURFACES.

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.

SEC. 57.80.04. GLASS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.05. SIZE.

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.

SEC. 57.80.06. BAFFLE PLATES.

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.

SEC. 57.80.07. FLOOR COVERING.


All combustible flooring under and adjacent to spray booths or spray tunnels shall be
protected with a covering of noncombustible material so installed as to prevent the
combustible flooring from coming into contact with the flammable liquids used in the
spraying process, and of such a nature as to facilitate the safe cleaning and removal of
residues.

SEC. 57.80.08. SPRAY ROOM.

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).

SEC. 57.80.09. SPRAY BOOTH OR SPRAY TUNNEL.

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.

Spray booths or spray tunnels shall be of at least one-hour fire-resistive masonry or


concrete construction, or shall be substantially constructed of steel not less than 18 gauge,
securely and rigidly supported by a steel frame. All joints or seams in any metal booth or
tunnel shall be made tight by lapping, crimping, or other equally efficient manner without
the use of solder. Spray booths or spray tunnels shall be designed to sweep air currents
toward the exhaust outlet. Completely enclosed spray booths or tunnels shall contain
sufficient exit doors so that no person within a booth or tunnel will be more than 15 feet
from an exit door.

EXCEPTION:

Spray booths or spray tunnels may be constructed of other noncombustible material


provided the material used and the design and construction thereof have been approved
by the Chief.

SEC. 57.80.10. DRY TYPE OVER SPRAY COLLECTORS.

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.

C. Booths, rooms or tunnels located in sprinklered buildings shall be protected on


both sides of the filters with automatic sprinklers.

SEC. 57.80.11. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.

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

SEC. 57.80.20. REQUIREMENTS FOR 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.

SEC. 57.80.21. AIR CIRCULATION.

A. All spray areas shall be provided with mechanical ventilation adequate to


remove flammable or combustible vapors to a safe location. All spray booths where
flammable or combustible liquids are sprayed shall have the spray gun interlocked with
the booth ventilation system to prevent spraying while the ventilation system is shut off.

B. Exhaust systems of ventilation shall be designed to maintain a minimum air


velocity of 100 linear feet per minute over the entire cross sectional area of a spray room
or over the entire frontal areas of spray booths and spray tunnels. Such exhaust system of
ventilation shall be continuously operated during spraying operations. When spray is
automatically applied without an attendant constantly on duty, the operating control of
spray apparatus shall be arranged so that spray cannot be applied unless exhaust fans are
in operation. Noncombustible baffles shall be provided where necessary to provide air
distribution.

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.

SEC. 57.80.31. GAUGE OF METAL.

Every duct or pipe shall be constructed of galvanized metal sheets in accordance with
the provisions of Table 80-A.

TABLE 80-A

SPRAY EXHAUST DUCTS – GAUGE OF METAL


Duct Cross-Sectional Dimension in Inches
Gauge of Duct Metal

Up to 8
24

Over 8 inches to 18
22

Over 18 inches to 30
20

Over 30
18

SEC. 57.80.32. SEAMS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.33. INSULATING.


A. Exhaust ducts shall have a clearance from unprotected combustible construction
or other combustible material of not less than 18 inches. This distance may be reduced if
protection is provided for all combustible surfaces within 18 inches according to the
following schedule:

1. 28 gauge sheet metal on one-fourth inch insulating mill board 12 inches

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

4. Any other approved material of equal of greater fire-resistance.

B. Ducts or pipes may be separated from combustible material by a ventilated collar


which provides a clear air space equal to one-half the diameter of the duct but in no event
shall such collar provide less than three inch air space, and such collar shall extend not
less than 12 inches above and below such combustible material.

SEC. 57.80.34. SUPPORTS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.35. BRANCH DUCTS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.36. CLEANOUT OPENINGS.

A. Cleanout openings shall be provided at intervals which shall permit thorough


cleaning of ducts without entry of persons. All cleanout openings in any duct or pipe
shall be equipped with tight-fitting sliding or hinged doors with minimum door size of 12
inches X 12 inches. If the duct or pipe is not large enough to facilitate a 12 inch X 12
inch door, then the largest possible door size that can be installed in the duct or pipe shall
be used. Doors shall be constructed of metal which is equal or greater in thickness than
the duct or pipe, and doors shall be equipped with a latch holding the door tightly closed.
B. Where automatic sprinklers protect spray booth ducting, there shall be an access
door provided adjacent to each sprinkler head location.

SEC. 57.80.37. DUCT VELOCITY.

Exhaust ducts shall be designed to provide sufficient air transport velocity to prevent
the overspray from settling in the duct.

SEC. 57.80.38. EXHAUST DUCT DISCHARGE POINT.

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.

EXHAUST FANS AND MOTORS

SEC. 57.80.40. SUPPLY OF AIR.

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.

SEC. 57.80.41. FAN MOTORS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.42. CONTROL SWITCH.

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.

SEC. 57.80.43. FAN SHAFTS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.44. FAN BLADES.


All fan blades shall be rigid and of a non-sparking electrical conducting material, or
the fan shall have inlet nose and drive side of cone lined with non-sparking material, with
ample clearance to avoid creating fire by friction, necessary allowance being made for
ordinary expansion and loading or coating to prevent contact between any moving part of
the spray room, spray booth or spray tunnel or any duct or pipe in connection therewith.

HEATING OF BOOTHS, ROOMS AND TUNNELS

SEC. 57.80.50. GENERAL.

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.

SEC. 57.80.51. DRYING REQUIREMENTS.

Drying and baking apparatus in connection with spray application of flammable


finishes shall conform to the applicable provisions of Division 84 of this article.

SEC. 57.80.52. HEATING SPRAY BOOTHS AND SPRAY ROOMS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.53. INFRARED DRYING.

Automobile refinishing spray booths or enclosures otherwise installed and maintained


in full conformity with this division may alternately be used for drying with portable
infrared drying apparatus when conforming to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

SEC. 57.80.60. REPAIR.

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.

SEC. 57.80.62. SCRAPING.

The scraping of any residue from any surface shall be done only with a non-sparking
scraper or instrument.

SEC. 57.80.63. BLOWING DOWN WITH COMPRESSED AIR.

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.

SEC. 57.80.64. LACQUER FINISHES.

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.

SEC. 57.80.65. BLEACHING SOLUTIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.66. CLEANING SOLVENTS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.67. DISPOSAL OF RESIDUE.

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.

SEC. 57.80.68. COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL.


Combustible material shall not be stored on top of or above any spray booth or spray
tunnel, or within 12 inches horizontally of any spray booth or tunnel. Paper and similar
combustible material shall not be used as lining for spray rooms, booths, or tunnels.

QUANTITY OF CLASS I, II, AND IIIA LIQUIDS AT SPRAY BOOTHS, ROOMS, OR


TUNNELS

SEC. 57.80.70. GRAVITY FLOW.

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.

SEC. 57.80.72. HANDLING OF CLASS I, II AND IIIA LIQUIDS.

A. Original closed containers, approved portable tanks, safety cans, or properly


arranged and constructed piping systems shall be used for bringing Class I, II and IIIA
liquids into the spray area. Open or glass containers are prohibited.

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.

SEC. 57.80.73. PRESSURE CONTAINERS.

Approved pressure containers may be used to supply flammable and combustible


liquids to spray equipment. No single container used shall exceed 60 gallons capacity,
and the aggregate capacity of all containers used in a single spray area shall not exceed
60 gallons.

SEC. 57.80.74. QUANTITY OF CLASS I, II AND IIIA LIQUIDS.

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.

SEC. 57.80.80. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.80.81. LOCATION.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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

Construction, Installation, and Location

57.81.01 Construction.

57.81.02 Location.

57.81.03 Permit Required.

Related Equipment

57.81.10 Drain Boards.

57.81.11 Tank Covers.

57.81.12 Conveyors.

57.81.13 Overflow Pipes.

57.81.14 Bottom Drains.

57.81.15 Protection of Floors.

57.81.16 Ventilation.

57.81.17 Electrical.

57.81.18 Heating Dip Tank Liquids.

57.81.19 Source of Ignition.

57.81.20 Cleaning of Dip Tanks.

57.81.21 Fire Protection.

CONSTRUCTION, INSTALLATION, AND LOCATION

SEC. 57.81.01. CONSTRUCTION.

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

GAUGE OF METAL FOR DIP TANKS


Capacity of Dip Tank in Gallons
Gauge of Metal

5 to 60
18

Over 60 to 275
14

Over 275 to 550


12

Over 550 to 1100


10

B. Supports:

1. Tanks of 55 gallons capacity or less shall have noncombustible supports.

2. Tanks over 55 gallons capacity shall have noncombustible supports of at least


one-hour fire-resistive construction.

3. Tanks over 120 gallons capacity shall have noncombustible supports of at least
two-hour fire-resistive construction.

4. Tanks exceeding 500 gallons capacity shall be supported in a manner approved


by the Building Department.

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.)

SEC. 57.81.02. LOCATION.

No dip tank shall be located, installed, maintained, or used in any building or room
except in an approved location as follows:

A. Tanks in excess of 500 gallons shall not be locate in or above basements.

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.

SEC. 57.81.03. PERMIT REQUIRED.

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

SEC. 57.81.10. DRAIN BOARDS.

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.

SEC. 57.81.11. TANK COVERS.

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.

SEC. 57.81.12. CONVEYORS.

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.

SEC. 57.81.13. OVERFLOW PIPES.


A. Every dip tank having a capacity in excess of 150 gallons or 10 square feet in
liquid surface area and located in any building shall be equipped with an overflow pipe,
at least three inches in diameter, which shall terminate in the drain pipe below the drain
valve or in the underground tank or safe location herein required. Such overflow pipe
shall be so installed that the highest opening thereto is not less than six inches below the
top of the dip tank.

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.

SEC. 57.81.14. BOTTOM DRAINS.

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:

Over 500 to 750 gal. 3 in.

Over 750 to 1,000 gal. 4 in.

Over 1,000 to 2,500 gal. 5 in.

Over 2,500 to 4,000 gal. 6 in.

Over 4,000 gal. 8 in.

C. The capacity of a salvage tank shall be greater than the capacity of the dip tank
or tanks to which they are connected.

SEC. 57.81.15. PROTECTION OF FLOORS.

A. Dip tanks exceeding 20 gallons capacity shall not be used or maintained on any
combustible floor.

B. Dip tanks of 20 gallons capacity or less shall not be used or maintained on


combustible flooring unless the floor under such tanks, and for a distance of five feet on
all sides of dip tanks, drain boards, and objects which have been dipped is protected with
a covering of noncombustible material in such a manner as to prevent the floor from
becoming saturated or covered with flammable or combustible liquids used in the dipping
process.

SEC. 57.81.16. VENTILATION.

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. When the dipping or coating process involves use of an automatic conveyor


system, the system controls shall be arranged so that dipping or coating cannot be
accomplished unless the ventilating system is operating.

SEC. 57.81.17. ELECTRICAL.

A. Electrical wiring and equipment shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 9,


Article 3, of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical 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.

SEC. 57.81.18. HEATING DIP TANK LIQUIDS.

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:

A. Dip tanks shall be equipped with an approved manual-reset, excess temperature


control unit designed to shut down the heating and conveyor systems, if any, upon
reaching such excess temperature. Excess temperature shall mean any temperature above
which the required ventilation system cannot safely handle generated vapors. In no case
shall this temperature exceed the boiling point, or come within 100°F. of the autoignition
temperature of the dip tank liquid.

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.

SEC. 57.81.20. CLEANING OF DIP TANKS.

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.

SEC. 57.81.21. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

B. Portable Fire Extinguishers: Portable fire extinguishers in accordance with


Division 140 of this article shall be provided and maintained in a convenient an easily
accessible location for the protection of every dip tank.
DIVISION 82
FLOW COAT OPERATIONS

Section

57.82.01 General Requirements.

57.82.02 Paint Transfer.

57.82.03 Tanks.

57.82.04 Cleaning and Maintenance.

57.82.05 Fire Protection and Safety Devices.

SEC. 57.82.01. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

Except as modified herein, all standards in this article for spray tunnels and dip tanks
shall regulate flow coat operations.

A. Location – All flow coat operations shall be within a noncombustible enclosure


adequately vented to the outside of the building.

B. Construction

1. Flow coat tunnels shall be constructed of 18 gauge, minimum thickness, iron or


steel securely and rigidly supported by a steel frame. All points and seams shall be made
tight by lapping, crimping, or some other equally effective manner not requiring the use
of solder.

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.

3. All interior surfaces must be smooth to facilitate cleaning.

SEC. 57.82.02. PAINT TRANSFER.

Paint shall be supplied by direct pressure pumping, arranged to automatically shut


down by means of approved heat-actuated devices in case of fire, or paint may be
supplied by an approved gravity tank not exceeding 10 gallons capacity.

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.

SEC. 57.82.03. TANKS.

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

MATERIAL TANKS—GAUGE OF METAL


Capacity
Thickness

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.

SEC. 57.82.04. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE.

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.

SEC. 57.82.05. FIRE PROTECTION AND SAFETY DEVICES.

A. Fire Protection Equipment – If installed outside of a Hazardous Materials Room,


every flow coat tunnel together with the material tanks and the dripping or drying area
shall be protected by an approved automatic fire extinguishing system in accordance with
Division 141 of this article. When the flow coater is provided with an extinguishing
system using a liquid extinguishing agent, provisions shall be made to prevent the salvage
tank from being overflowed by the extinguishing agent.

B. Safety Devices – Additional safety features shall be required as follows:

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:

a. Automatic fire extinguishing system will operate.

b. Conveyor will stop.

c. Pump will stop.

d. Exhaust system will stop.

e. Sump will be drained to salvage tank.

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.

57.83.05 Special Permit.

57.83.06 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.83.01. SCOPE.

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).

SEC. 57.83.02. SAFEGUARDS.

A. Adequate booths, fencing, railings, or guards shall be provided around the


equipment to provide safe separation from storage and personnel. Such booths, railings,
fencing, or guards shall be of conductive material, adequately grounded, and shall be at
least five feet from processing equipment.

B. All electrically-conductive objects including paint containers in the spraying area


shall be adequately grounded. The equipment shall carry a prominent, permanently-
installed warning sign stating this requirement. Signs requiring that persons entering the
spraying area be grounded shall also be posted.

C. A distance shall be maintained between materials being painted and electrodes or


electrostatic atomizing heads or conductors of at least twice the sparking distance. A
suitable sign indicating this safe distance shall be conspicuously posted near the
assembly.

D. “NO SMOKING” signs in three-inch letters on contrasting background shall be


conspicuously posted in all spray areas and paint storage rooms.

SEC. 57.83.03. VENTILATION.


A. Electrostatic: The spraying area shall be adequately ventilated to insure safe
conditions from fire and life hazards.

B. Powder-Coating: Nondeposited air-suspended powders shall be safely removed


from a spray operation to an approved powder-recovery system.

SEC. 57.83.04. MAINTENANCE.

A. Electrostatic Spraying:

1. Insulators: All insulators shall be kept clean and dry.

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

1. All areas shall be kept free of accumulation of powder-coating dust, particularly


horizontal surfaces such as ledges, beams, pipes, hoods, booths, and floors.

2. Surfaces shall be cleaned in such manner as to avoid scattering dust to other


places or creating dust clouds. Cleaning equipment shall be approved for use in
hazardous locations.

SEC. 57.83.05. SPECIAL PERMIT.

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.

SEC. 57.83.06. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

Vents and Flues from Heating Systems and Oven Exhausts

57.84.10 General Requirements.

57.84.11 Gauge of Metal.

57.84.12 Seams.

57.84.13 Insulation.

57.84.14 Supports.

57.84.15 Branch Ducts.

57.84.16 Cleanout Openings.

57.84.17 Hand Holes.

57.84.18 Dampers.

Ventilation

57.84.20 General Requirement.

57.84.21 Batch Process Ovens.

57.84.22 Purging Interval.


57.84.23 Ducts.

57.84.24 Explosion Hatches.

Pre-drying

57.84.30 Zone Required.

57.84.31 Ventilation of Pre-dry Zone.

57.84.32 Air Intake.

Safety Control Equipment

57.84.40 Equipment Required.

57.84.41 Equipment Design.

57.84.42 Types of Safety Control Devices.

Maintenance

57.84.50 Maintenance and Repair.

57.84.51 Cleaning.

57.84.52 Check of Safety Control Equipment.

Fire Protection

57.84.60 General Requirements.

57.84.61 Types of Systems.

GENERAL INSTALLATION

SEC. 57.84.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.84.02. LOCATION.


The location of every drying oven shall be approved by the Chief. Such ovens shall
not be located in any basement and shall be entirely surrounded (top and sides) by a clear
space of at least 18 inches. Posts, beams, trusses, and other structural members of the
building shall not pass through any drying oven.

SEC. 57.84.03. SEPARATION.

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.

SEC. 57.84.04. CONSTRUCTION.

Drying ovens shall be constructed of noncombustible materials throughout. Drying


oven interiors shall have smooth surfaces arranged to permit easy cleaning.

SEC. 57.84.05. INSULATION.

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.

SEC. 57.84.06. MOUNTING.

Drying ovens shall be mounted on the ground, or on floors of fire-resistive


construction with noncombustible flooring or surface finish and with no combustible
material against the underside thereof, or on noncombustible slabs or arches having no
combustible material within 12 inches of the underside thereof. Such construction shall
in all cases extend not less than 12 inches beyond the perimeter of the oven.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Drying ovens which are designed and constructed for installation on a


combustible floor, and are approved, may be mounted in accordance with the conditions
of such approval.

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.

VENTS AND FLUES FROM HEATING SYSTEMS AND OVEN EXHAUSTS

SEC. 57.84.10. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

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.

SEC. 57.84.11. GAUGE OF METAL.

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

VENT PIPES – GAUGE OF METAL


Width or Diameter in Inches
U.S. Standard Gauge

Not more than 20


Not less than 22

Not more than 30


Not less than 20

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.

SEC. 57.84.13. INSULATION.

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.

1. Covering the vent pipe entirely with:

a. A ventilated collar containing at least one-inch air space (not permitted in fire
walls); or

b. Any other material of equal or greater fire resistance.

2. Covering the combustible material entirely with:

a. Metal lath and plaster not less than three-quarters inch thickness; or

b. Any other material of equal or greater fire-resistance.

SEC. 57.84.14. SUPPORTS.

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.

SEC. 57.84.15. BRANCH DUCTS.

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.

SEC. 57.84.16. CLEANOUT OPENINGS.

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.

SEC. 57.84.17. HAND HOLES.

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.

SEC. 57.84.18. DAMPERS.

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

SEC. 57.84.20. GENERAL REQUIREMENT.

Every drying oven shall be provided with a ventilation system of sufficient capacity to
prevent the formation of a hazardous atmosphere within the oven.

SEC. 57.84.21. BATCH PROCESS OVENS.

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.

SEC. 57.84.22. PURGING INTERVAL.

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.

SEC. 57.84.23. DUCTS.

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.

SEC. 57.84.24. EXPLOSION HATCHES.

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

SEC. 57.84.30. ZONE REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.84.31. VENTILATION OF PRE-DRY ZONE.

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.

SEC. 57.84.32. AIR INTAKE.


The air intake for such pre-drying operation may not include more than 25 percent of
warm air from the oven, and temperatures shall not be in excess of 160°F.

SAFETY CONTROL EQUIPMENT

SEC. 57.84.40. EQUIPMENT REQUIRED.

Every oven shall be equipped with the necessary manual and automatic devices for
fire and life safety as required by the Chief.

SEC. 57.84.41. EQUIPMENT DESIGN.

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.

SEC. 57.84.42. TYPES OF SAFETY CONTROL DEVICES.

The following safety control devices shall be considered a minimum requirement.


The Chief shall have the authority to require additional safety devices when deemed
necessary.

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.

B. Ventilation Safety – Equipment shall be provided to insure required ventilation


of the system during operation. In case of fan failure, conveyor and heater shall be shut
down by means of positive interlock safety control on exhaust and circulating system.

C. Combustion Safeguards – Safety interlocks shall be provided to insure flame on


pilot burner before main burner valve can be opened. On ovens over one hundred cubic
feet capacity, these shall operate in a maximum time of ten seconds. In case the main
burner flame is extinguished, the fuel supply shall be automatically shut off.

D. Excess Temperature Controls – Excess temperature limit switches shall be


arranged to cut off the fuel supply when the temperature exceeds a safe limit. They shall
not reopen the fuel valve. There shall be at least one such control in the oven and on
externally heated ovens one additional control in the heater.

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

SEC. 57.84.50. MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR.

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.

SEC. 57.84.51. CLEANING.

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.

SEC. 57.84.52. CHECK OF SAFETY CONTROL EQUIPMENT.

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

SEC. 57.84.60. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

Any oven containing or processing sufficient combustible materials to sustain a fire of


such proportions that it may not be confined to the oven shall be equipped with a
permanently installed means of extinguishing fires within the oven enclosures. Such
protection may be required by the Chief for the exhaust ducts thereof.

SEC. 57.84.61. TYPES OF SYSTEMS.

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.

57.86.02 Construction – Roofing Kettles.

57.86.03 Open Flame.

57.86.04 Roofing Kettles on Trucks.

57.86.06 Fire Extinguishers.

57.86.07 Piping to Roof.

57.86.08 Kettle Cover.

57.86.09 Attendant.

57.86.10 Barriers.

57.86.11 Street Protection.

57.86.12 Containers for Fuel.

SEC. 57.86.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.86.02. CONSTRUCTION – ROOFING KETTLES.

Roofing kettles shall be designed, constructed, tested, and maintained in accordance


with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 41.

SEC. 57.86.03. OPEN FLAME.

No person shall maintain an open flame in a roofing kettle during transportation or


when a roofing kettle is within any public garage or premises where Class I, II, or IIIA
liquids are dispensed.

SEC. 57.86.04. ROOFING KETTLES ON TRUCKS.


Ground kettles shall not be fired or used while mounted on the bed of trucks, except if
the truck body is all metal construction, and the kettle is securely attached to the bed by
adequate bolts or by welding of the legs to body of truck. Patch kettles shall not be
permitted for use while mounted on the bed of the truck.

SEC. 57.86.06. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

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.

SEC. 57.86.07. PIPING TO ROOF.

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.

SEC. 57.86.08. KETTLE COVER.

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.

SEC. 57.86.09. ATTENDANT.

A responsible person shall be in attendance near the kettle at all times whenever a
kettle is in operation.

SEC. 57.86.10. BARRIERS.

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.

SEC. 57.86.11. STREET PROTECTION.


All improved streets shall be protected from damage by use of sand or other
noncombustible materials under roofing kettles. Streets shall be cleaned of all excess tar
and other debris upon completion of work.

SEC. 57.86.12. CONTAINERS FOR FUEL.

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

Location and Drilling

57.90.01 Location of Oil Wells.

57.90.02 Operating Unit.

Oil Well Facilities

57.90.10 Derricks.

57.90.11 Pipe Racks.

57.90.12 Wooden Construction of Facilities.

57.90.13 Tanks and Piping.

57.90.14 Oil and Gas Separators.

57.90.15 Identification Signs.

57.90.16 Pits in Connection with Oil Wells.

57.90.17 Oil Well Cellars.

Maintenance of Oil Well Sites

57.90.20 Structural Deterioration.

57.90.21 Rubbish, Junk, and Combustible Waste.

57.90.22 Control of Petroleum or Waste.

Safeguards for Oil Wells

57.90.30 Blowout Protection Required.

57.90.31 Cleaning and Swabbing.

57.90.32 Open Flames and Sources of Ignition.

57.90.33 Lighting of Oil Wells.


57.90.34 Equipment and Appurtenances.

57.90.35 Extraordinary Fire Hazard.

57.90.36 Fire Protection for Oil Wells.

57.90.37 Collision Barriers and Security Fences.

Suspended Operations or Abandonment of Oil Wells

57.90.40 Report of Nonoperating Oil Wells.

57.90.41 Suspended Operation of Oil Wells.

57.90.42 Safeguarding Nonoperating Oil Wells.

57.90.43 Abandonment of Oil Wells – When Required.

57.90.44 Method of Abandonment.

57.90.45 Notice of Abandonment.

57.90.46 Proximity of Structures to Abandoned Oil Wells.

LOCATION AND DRILLING

SEC. 57.90.01. LOCATION OF OIL WELLS.

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.

SEC. 57.90.02. OPERATING UNIT.

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.”

OIL WELL FACILITIES

SEC. 57.90.10. DERRICKS.

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.

B. No derrick shall be erected, installed, or maintained on any drilling site or


premises unless there is then in effect a valid Permit authorizing the drilling, operation, or
maintenance of an oil well on such drilling site or premises.

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.

SEC. 57.90.11. PIPE RACKS.

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.

SEC. 57.90.12. WOODEN CONSTRUCTION OF FACILITIES.

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.

SEC. 57.90.13. TANKS AND PIPING.

All tanks, piping, and loading racks used in connection with any oil well shall comply
with the applicable divisions of this article.

SEC. 57.90.14. OIL AND GAS SEPARATORS.

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.

SEC. 57.90.15. IDENTIFICATION SIGNS.

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.

SEC. 57.90.16. PITS IN CONNECTION WITH OIL WELLS.

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.

3. This section does not prohibit oil well cellars.

SEC. 57.90.17. OIL WELL CELLARS.

A. Oil well cellars shall be provided and shall be constructed of noncombustible


material.

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.

D. Cellars shall be safeguarded by noncombustible guard rails not less than 30


inches above grade or other adequate barrier approved by the Chief.

MAINTENANCE OF OIL WELL SITES

SEC. 57.90.20. STRUCTURAL DETERIORATION.

Structural deterioration of any derrick shall be promptly remedied by such repairs,


replacements, or alterations as are necessary to render such derrick structurally safe, or
such derrick shall be removed from the premises.

SEC. 57.90.21. RUBBISH, JUNK, AND COMBUSTIBLE WASTE.

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.

SEC. 57.90.22. CONTROL OF PETROLEUM OR WASTE.

A. No person shall place, divert, or discharge any liquid containing petroleum


which constitutes or occasions a fire hazard into or upon any street, streams, drainage
canal, ditch, storm drain, flood control channel, or any other public premises not
authorized for such disposal by the public agency having jurisdiction.

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.

SAFEGUARDS FOR OIL WELLS

SEC. 57.90.30. BLOWOUT PROTECTION REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.90.31. CLEANING AND SWABBING.

No person shall swab or bail any oil well not equipped with an approved oil saver.

SEC. 57.90.32. OPEN FLAMES AND SOURCES OF IGNITION.

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.

B. Every reasonable precaution shall be taken to prevent sources of ignition from


coming in contact with flammable vapors.

SEC. 57.90.33. LIGHTING OF OIL WELLS.

Oil wells shall be only lighted by electric lights that comply with Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

SEC. 57.90.34. EQUIPMENT AND APPURTENANCES.

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.

SEC. 57.90.35. EXTRAORDINARY FIRE HAZARD.

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.

SEC. 57.90.36. FIRE PROTECTION FOR OIL WELLS.

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.

SEC. 57.90.37. COLLISION BARRIERS AND SECURITY FENCES.

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:

This subsection shall not apply if a competent person is in constant attendance, 24


hours a day, at each oil well.

B. Where wells are located in an area accessible to vehicular traffic, in addition to a


security fence there shall be a collision barrier. The collision barrier shall be constructed
of posts spaced a maximum of four feet on center and shall be set in concrete or in steel
sleeves which are encased in concrete. Such posts shall be at least five feet in length,
with two feet below ground and shall not be less than four-inch diameter, Schedule 40
iron pipe filled with concrete. Collision barriers shall be located outside the security
fence and shall not be less than 10 feet from the center of the oil well casing.

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

SEC. 57.90.40. REPORT OF NONOPERATING 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.

SEC. 57.90.41. SUSPENDED OPERATION OF OIL WELLS.

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.

1. A proration or conservation program required by or authorized by any law.

2. Compliance with a court order.

3. A voluntary proration or conservation program determined by the Chief to have


been initiated in good faith and not for the purpose for evading the provisions of this
division.

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.

E. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section to the contrary, a Special


Permit for suspended operation of an oil well shall be valid only during the time that
there is a valid Permit for the operation of the oil well as provided in Division 4 of this
article.

SEC. 57.90.42. SAFEGUARDING NONOPERATING OIL WELLS.

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.

SEC. 57.90.43. ABANDONMENT OF OIL WELLS – WHEN REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.90.44. METHOD OF ABANDONMENT.

For the purpose of abandoning an oil well, the following shall apply to the person to
whom the notice is directed:

A. In addition to being plugged in accordance with the laws of the State of


California, every such oil well and the space between the surface casing and any water
string which is not removed from the well shall be filled with a good grade rotary mud
weighing not less than 70 pounds per cubic foot. Filling shall begin at the uppermost
sealing plug required by laws or regulations of the State of California and shall be capped
with at least 100 lineal feet of cement downward from the floor level of the cellar but not
less than six feet below grade. Such cement cap shall be inside the casing and the water
string and shall be covered at the cellar floor level by a steel plate of the same thickness
and with the same inside diameter as the casing. Such plate shall be welded throughout
its entire circumference to the casing with at least three welding passes and the LAFD
number of the oil well shall be arc welded on the plate using noncorrosive welding rod.
All such welding shall be performed by a certified welder. Cement caps shall be
composed of one part cement to not more than two and one-half parts sand and not more
than three and one half parts gravel or crushed rock. The derricks, including all derrick
parts, shall be dismantled and removed from the premises immediately after the well hole
has been plugged and sealed. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91)
EXCEPTION:

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.

SEC. 57.90.45. NOTICE OF ABANDONMENT.

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.

SEC. 57.90.46. PROXIMITY OF STRUCTURES TO ABANDONED OIL WELLS.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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

57.91.01 Location of Natural Gasoline Plants and Refineries.

57.91.02 Restrictions on Locations.

57.91.03 Restrictions on Locations of Buildings and Apparatus.

57.91.04 Storage of Class I, II and IIIA Liquids.

57.91.05 Unfired Pressure Vessels.

57.91.06 Process Units.

57.91.07 Boilers.

57.91.08 Fire Protection.

57.91.09 Fences Required.

57.91.10 Hazardous Materials.

SEC. 57.91.01. LOCATION OF NATURAL GASOLINE PLANTS AND


REFINERIES.

No permit shall be issued for the erection or construction of or addition to any


Refinery or Natural Gasoline Plant unless the location thereof has first been approved in
writing by the Chief.

SEC. 57.91.02. RESTRICTIONS ON LOCATIONS.

No Refinery or Natural Gasoline Plant shall be located within:

A. 100 feet of any building not a part of such Refinery or Natural Gasoline plant
unless otherwise approved by the Chief.

B. 300 feet of any institutional, residential, educational or assembly occupancy.

SEC. 57.91.03. RESTRICTIONS ON LOCATIONS OF BUILDINGS AND


APPARATUS.

No building or apparatus in which flammable vapors may be accumulated or


discharged, shall be erected within:
A. 100 feet of any oil well, tank, boiler, open flame, or other permanent source of
ignition, except internal combustion engines used in connection with gas compressors, or
other equipment necessary to the process.

B. 30 feet of any public street, alley, or property line.

SEC. 57.91.04. STORAGE OF CLASS I, II AND IIIA LIQUIDS.

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.

B. Other Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall be stored in aboveground or underground


tanks or in containers in accordance with Division 30 or 31 of this article.

SEC. 57.91.05. UNFIRED PRESSURE VESSELS.

Unfired pressure vessels shall be constructed in accordance with nationally recognized


good practice. When no generally recognized national or state Code exists for a
particular type of pressure vessel, the Chief may grant approval upon satisfactory proof
that such vessel will withstand a pressure test of four times the designed working
pressure.

SEC. 57.91.06. PROCESS UNITS.

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.

SEC. 57.91.07. BOILERS.

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.

SEC. 57.91.08. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.91.09. FENCES REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.91.10. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

57.92.04 Flammable and Combustible Liquid Handling.

57.92.05 Filling and Withdrawing from Containers.

57.92.06 Crude Petroleum.

57.92.07 Drains.

57.92.08 Locations.

57.92.09 Permit Required.

Loading Racks

57.92.10 Distance Separations.

57.92.11 Static Protection.

57.92.12 Remote Control Switch and Valves.

57.92.13 Driveways.

57.92.14 Backing Vehicles Prohibited.

57.92.15 Signs.

57.92.16 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.92.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.92.02. BUILDINGS.

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).

SEC. 57.92.03. ENCLOSURES.

Every Bulk Distributing Station shall be entirely surrounded by an approved fence or


other enclosure at least five feet high with adequate gates. No tank vehicle shall be
loaded or unloaded at any Bulk Distributing Station unless it is entirely within such
fenced enclosure.

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.

SEC. 57.92.04. FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID HANDLING.

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.

SEC. 57.92.05. FILLING AND WITHDRAWING FROM CONTAINERS.

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.

SEC. 57.92.06. CRUDE PETROLEUM.

The handling of crude petroleum at a Bulk Distributing Station is prohibited.

SEC. 57.92.07. DRAINS.

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.

SEC. 57.92.08. LOCATIONS.

The location of every Bulk Distributing Station shall be approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.92.09. PERMIT REQUIRED.

A Permit, in accordance with Division 4 of this article, shall be required to operate or


maintain a Bulk Distributing Station.

LOADING RACKS

SEC. 57.92.10. DISTANCE SEPARATIONS.

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

LOCATION OF LOADING RACKS


LOCATION
Distance To Fill Page

Class I Liquids
Class II and III Liquids

From buildings, tanks, streets, alleys, or property lines


25 ft.
15 ft.

From open flame and sources of ignition not a part of the operation
50 ft.
25 ft.

From pits or basements


25 ft.
15 ft.

SEC. 57.92.11. STATIC PROTECTION.


A. Every loading rack shall be protected by a metallic bond wire permanently
connected to the fill stem or fill stem piping. This conductor shall be stranded wire not
smaller than No. 8 A.W.G. (American Wire Gage). The free end shall be equipped with
a clamp or equivalent device for attachment to some metallic part of the tank car, tank
truck or cargo tank. Bond wire connection shall be made prior to opening dome covers,
and shall be maintained in place during the entire filing process. Dome covers shall be
closed before bond wire is disconnected. Tank car loading facilities shall be protected by
bonding the pipe riser to at least one rail and to the rack structure. Multiple lines entering
the rack shall be electrically bonded together.

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.

SEC. 57.92.12. REMOTE CONTROL SWITCH AND VALVES.

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.

SEC. 57.92.13. DRIVEWAYS.

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.

SEC. 57.92.14. BACKING VEHICLES PROHIBITED.

No vehicles containing Class I or II liquids, except railroad cars, shall be propelled


backward from any Bulk Distributing Station onto any street.

SEC. 57.92.15. SIGNS.

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.

SEC. 57.92.16. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. An approved fire protection system shall be provided in every Bulk Distributing


Station building in which Class I or II liquids are handled outside of closed systems.
B. Portable fire extinguishers shall be maintained and distributed at every Bulk
Distributing Station as specified in Division 140 of this article. At least one extinguisher
with a minimum classification of 20B:C shall be provided at each loading or unloading
facility.
DIVISION 93
MARINE SERVICE STATIONS

Section

57.93.01 Transferring Flammable Liquids.

57.93.02 Pumps.

57.93.03 Dispensing.

57.93.04 Pipelines.

57.93.05 Sources of Ignition.

57.93.06 Ventilation.

57.93.07 Personnel.

57.93.08 Signs.

57.93.09 Drainage and Waste Disposal.

57.93.10 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.93.01. TRANSFERRING FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS.

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.

SEC. 57.93.02. PUMPS.

A. Pumps supplying flammable or combustible liquids shall be located on shore, or


on a solid fill type pier.

EXCEPTION:

Portable tanks or other portable transfer apparatus.

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.

SEC. 57.93.04. PIPELINES.

A. Pipelines attached to piers, wharves or other structures shall be protected against


physical damage. A valve shall be provided in each line at or near the approach to the
pier, wharf, or other structure, whereby the fuel supply from the shore may be shut off.

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.

SEC. 57.93.05. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

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.

SEC. 57.93.06. VENTILATION.

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.

SEC. 57.93.07. PERSONNEL.

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.

SEC. 57.93.08. SIGNS.

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.”

SEC. 57.93.09. DRAINAGE AND WASTE DISPOSAL.


Provisions shall be made in the area where flammable or combustible liquids may be
spilled, to prevent liquids from flowing into buildings, onto the surface of harbor waters,
or other locations where there may be a source of ignition. Crank case drainings and
waste products shall be suitably stored in tanks or drums, and removed from the premises
at frequent intervals.

SEC. 57.93.10. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. At least two portable fire extinguishers having a 20B:C classification in


accordance with Division 140 of this article shall be provided at every Marine Service
Station, and other water front facilities.

B. Approved standpipes and hose shall be provided and located in weather-resistant


cabinets at every Marine Service Station, and at not to exceed 200 foot intervals on other
piers and wharves.
DIVISION 94
LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GAS BULK DISTRIBUTING
STATIONS, CYLINDER FILLING PLANTS, AND AUTO FUELING
STATIONS

Section

Bulk Distributing Stations

57.94.01 Fences Required.

57.94.02 Backing Vehicles Prohibited.

57.94.03 Remote Control Switch.

57.94.04 Filling Transportation Tanks.

57.94.05 Control of Hazardous Materials.

Cylinder Filling Plants

57.94.10 Filling Pressure Vessels.

57.94.11 Filling Without Permits.

Liquefied Flammable Gas Auto Fueling Stations

57.94.20 Filling Mobile Fuel Tanks.

57.94.21 Location of Liquefied Flammable Gas Dispensing Apparatus.

57.94.22 Protection of Liquefied Flammable Gas Dispensing Apparatus.

57.94.23 Remote Control Switch.

57.94.24 Open Flame.

57.94.25 Portable Fire Extinguishers.

BULK DISTRIBUTING STATIONS

SEC. 57.94.01. FENCES REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.94.02. BACKING VEHICLES PROHIBITED.

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.

SEC. 57.94.03. REMOTE CONTROL SWITCH.

A. An electrical power control switch shall be located at every transfer apparatus


where electric power is used in connection with any such transfer apparatus pump for
loading or unloading. In addition thereto, a control switch shall be located at a remote
point.

B. Both power control switches shall be conspicuously labeled with a legible sign
indicating the location and function thereof.

SEC. 57.94.04. FILLING TRANSPORTATION TANKS.

Cargo tank vehicles shall be filled only at a liquefied flammable gas Bulk Distributing
Station.

SEC. 57.94.05. CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

(Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

CYLINDER FILLING PLANTS

SEC. 57.94.10. FILLING PRESSURE VESSELS.

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.

LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GAS AUTO FUELING STATIONS

SEC. 57.94.20. FILLING MOBILE FUEL TANKS.

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.

2. The cargo tank vehicles are approved by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.94.21. LOCATION OF LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GAS DISPENSING


APPARATUS.

Liquefied flammable gas dispensing apparatus shall be located as required by Article


2 of Chapter I of the L.A.M.C. (Zoning Code).

A. Such dispenser shall be located not less than 25 feet from:

1. Buildings or property lines that may be built upon.

2. Basements, cellars or pits exceeding two feet in depth.

B. Such dispenser shall be located not less than 10 feet from:

1. Property lines.

2. The nearest rail of any main line railway track.


3. Aboveground tanks which contain 1,200 gallons or more flammable materials.

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.

SEC. 57.94.22. PROTECTION OF LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GAS DISPENSING


APPARATUS.

Liquefied flammable gas dispensing apparatus shall be installed on a concrete


foundation, and shall be adequately protected by crash barriers or guard rails not less than
30 inches in height measured above the adjacent grade. Crash barriers and guard rails
shall be of noncombustible material, and have a strength equivalent to that of six inch
standard weight steel pipes. Where vertical posts are utilized, they shall be imbedded in
not less than two feet of concrete below grade surface.

SEC. 57.94.23. REMOTE CONTROL SWITCH.

Every electrically driven liquefied flammable gas dispensing apparatus shall be


equipped with a control switch and a remote power control switch as required for
dispensing apparatus.

SEC. 57.94.24. OPEN FLAME.

No person shall smoke or produce any open flame or other source of ignition within
25 feet of any liquefied flammable gas dispensing apparatus.

SEC. 57.94.25. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

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.

57.95.03 Classification of Liquids and Gases.

57.95.04 Flash Point Tests.

Fire Protection at Terminals and on Wharfs

57.95.04.01 Firefighting - Access.

57.95.05 Class II Standpipe - Location of Outlets.

57.95.06 Class II Standpipe - Water Supply Requirements.

57.95.07 Fire Equipment - Arrangement.

Foam Protection

57.95.08 Foam Protection for Marine Oil Terminals.

57.95.09 Foam Equipment - Arrangement.

On Board Vessels

57.95.10 Fire Protection on the Vessel.

Precautions – General

57.95.11 Smoking at Marine Oil Terminals.

57.95.12 Smoking and Open Flame Aboard Vessels.

57.95.13 Security at Terminals.

Personnel

57.95.14 Terminal Superintendent–certified.

57.95.15 Assistants Designated.


57.95.16 Competence of Persons.

Equipment

57.95.17 Electrical System.

57.95.18 Pipe Lines.

57.95.19 Valves.

57.95.20 Access to Valves and Pipe Lines.

57.95.21 Bonding and Grounding of Pipe Lines.

57.95.22 Cargo Pumps at Marine Oil Terminals.

57.95.23 Cargo Hose – Support – Testing.

Cargo Handling – General

57.95.24 Notification by Terminal Superintendent.

57.95.25 Notification by Master.

57.95.26 Preloading Conference.

57.95.27 Master’s Certification.

57.95.28 Refusal.

57.95.29 Electrical Bonding.

57.95.30 Mooring and Cargo Connections.

57.95.31 Starting to Transfer.

57.95.32 Transferring Across Deck Prohibited.

57.95.33 Hatches and Ullage Holes.

57.95.34 Ports and Doors to Quarters.

57.95.35 Miscellaneous Hazards.

57.95.36 Overall Loading.


57.95.37 Loading Cargo Tanks.

57.95.38 Connection to Ship’s Piping.

57.95.39 Gas-free Inspection.

57.95.40 Obstructions.

57.95.41 Wharf Piping.

57.95.42 Harbor Contamination.

57.95.43 Hazard Abatement.

57.95.44 Conditions Requiring Summary Action.

57.95.45 Duties of the Terminal Superintendent.

57.95.46 Docking.

57.95.47 Scuppers and Sea Valves.

57.95.48 Responsibility for Handling Valves.

57.95.49 Responsibility for Personnel.

57.95.50 Blowing of Boiler Tubes.

57.95.51 Relief Valves.

57.95.52 Signals.

57.95.53 Signs at Gangplank.

57.95.54 Warning for Small Craft.

57.95.55 Repairs to Vessel or Wharf.

57.95.56 Regulations to Be Available.

57.95.57 Manned Barges.

57.95.58 Unmanned Barges.

57.95.59 Vents.
57.95.60 Portable Fire Extinguishers.

SEC. 57.95.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

In addition to all other applicable provisions of this article, flammable and


combustible liquids and flammable gases shall be handled and stored at Marine Oil
Terminals in accordance with 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.

SEC. 57.95.02. APPLICATION.

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.

SEC. 57.95.03. CLASSIFICATION OF LIQUIDS AND GASES.

A. The following classification of liquids and gases is specifically defined and


particularly directed for use in this division.

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.

NOTE: Reid Vapor Pressure is based on temperature of 100° 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.

SEC. 57.95.04. FLASH POINT TESTS.

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.

TABLE NO. 95-A

EQUIVALENT FLASH POINTS


Open-Cup Tester
Tag Closed-Cup Tester

(A.S.T.M.)
Pensky-Martens Closed-Cup Tester (A.S.T.M.)

º F.
º F.
º F.

80
75

150

140

FIRE PROTECTION AT TERMINALS AND ON WHARFS


SEC. 57.95.04.01. FIREFIGHTING - ACCESS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

Access, hydrants, and fire flow requirements for Marine Oil Terminals shall be
established per Division 9 of the Fire Code.

SEC. 57.95.05. CLASS II STANDPIPE - LOCATION OF OUTLETS.

(Title and Section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.95.06. CLASS II STANDPIPE - WATER SUPPLY REQUIREMENTS.

(Title and Section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

SEC. 57.95.07. FIRE EQUIPMENT - ARRANGEMENT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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:

A. Hose cabinets or houses shall be provided at each required Class II standpipe


outlet location. Each hose cabinet or house shall be provided with not more than 350 feet
of one and one-half inch or two and one-half inch hose equipped with a nozzle tip with a
minimum bore of five-eighths inch or one inch. Except as provided in Section 57.95.06,
the hose shall be coupled in a continuous line and shall be attached to the outlets at all
times for immediate use. Each hose cabinet or house shall be equipped with a hose and a
combination hydrant spanner.
B. At all times when tank vessels are at any Marine Oil Terminal wharf, there shall
be an approved hose reel equipped with not less than 350 feet of one and one-half inch
hose, and a five-eighths inch nozzle tip, stationed on the wharf as near as practical to the
stern and bow of the tank vessel.

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.

C. Where protection set forth in A or B is not in use, each hydrant or Class II


standpipe outlet over the full length of the vessel shall have not more than 350 feet of
hose connected and ready for use. The hose shall be flaked out on the wharf with nozzle
tip attached. Each hydrant so equipped shall be provided with a suitable spanner in place
on the hydrant stem.

D. Other equivalent fire protection arrangements approved by the Chief.

FOAM PROTECTION

SEC. 57.95.08. FOAM PROTECTION FOR MARINE OIL TERMINALS.

Facilities shall conform to requirements set forth in Division 141 of this article.

SEC. 57.95.09. FOAM EQUIPMENT - ARRANGEMENT.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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

SEC. 57.95.10. FIRE PROTECTION ON THE VESSEL.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)


Sufficient serviceable fire hose with suitable nozzles attached to reach all parts of the
vessel shall be connected to the fire main on the vessel and made ready for immediate use
at all times the vessel is at a wharf.

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

SEC. 57.95.11. SMOKING AT MARINE OIL TERMINALS.

A. Smoking – Smoking shall be prohibited on Marine Oil Terminal premises except


in such locations as may be designated by the Terminal Superintendent and approved in
writing by the Chief. Such approved locations shall be designated by appropriate signs.

B. No Smoking Areas – Every Marine Oil Terminal including wharfs where


smoking is not specifically approved in writing by the Chief, shall be conspicuously
posted with “NO SMOKING” signs approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.95.12. SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME ABOARD VESSELS.

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.

SEC. 57.95.13. SECURITY AT TERMINALS.

Marine Oil Terminal facilities including wharfs shall be provided with security against
entry by unauthorized persons to the satisfaction of the Chief.

PERSONNEL

SEC. 57.95.14. TERMINAL SUPERINTENDENT–CERTIFIED.

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.

SEC. 57.95.15. ASSISTANTS DESIGNATED.

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.

SEC. 57.95.16. COMPETENCE OF PERSONS.

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.

When any person is incompetent by reason of intoxication, disorderly conduct,


obvious inexperience or a language barrier, the Chief shall summarily require operations
to be discontinued.

EQUIPMENT

SEC. 57.95.17. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM.

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).

SEC. 57.95.18. PIPE LINES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.19. VALVES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.20. ACCESS TO VALVES AND PIPE LINES.


Access shall be provided to valves and connections of pipe lines below wharf deck.
No freight or other material shall be placed on petroleum wharfs in such a manner as to
interfere with the opening of trap doors which provide access to valves and pipe
connections below wharf deck. If trap doors are used, they shall be conspicuously
marked.

SEC. 57.95.21. BONDING AND GROUNDING OF PIPE LINES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.22. CARGO PUMPS AT MARINE OIL TERMINALS.

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

SEC. 57.95.23. CARGO HOSE – SUPPORT – TESTING.

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.

CARGO HANDLING – GENERAL

SEC. 57.95.24. NOTIFICATION BY TERMINAL SUPERINTENDENT.

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.

SEC. 57.95.25. NOTIFICATION BY MASTER.


Upon arrival of tank vessel at wharf, the officer in charge of said vessel shall notify
the Terminal Superintendent of ship’s readiness to pump ballast or cargo, or to receive
cargo.

SEC. 57.95.26. PRELOADING CONFERENCE.

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.

SEC. 57.95.27. MASTER’S CERTIFICATION.

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,

C. He will on request give the Terminal Superintendent the opportunity to satisfy


himself that the condition of the vessel is as stated in the certification.

SEC. 57.95.28. REFUSAL.

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.

SEC. 57.95.29. ELECTRICAL BONDING.

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.

SEC. 57.95.30. MOORING AND CARGO CONNECTIONS.

Loading or discharging is not to commence until both Terminal Superintendent and


officer in charge of tank vessel are satisfied that tank vessel is properly moored and all
connections are properly made. At all times when a tank vessel is lying at a wharf, it
shall have lines of such length and tightness as to prevent a surge of the vessel from
placing stress on the hose.
There shall be two emergency wire hausers made fast to bits, one fore and one aft, on
the off-shore side of the vessel, within convenient reach and of sufficient strength for
towing the vessel.

SEC. 57.95.31. STARTING TO TRANSFER.

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.

SEC. 57.95.32. TRANSFERRING ACROSS DECK PROHIBITED.

Transferring of Grade A, B, or C products across the deck of another vessel shall not
be permitted at any time.

SEC. 57.95.33. HATCHES AND ULLAGE HOLES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.34. PORTS AND DOORS TO QUARTERS.

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.

SEC. 57.95.35. MISCELLANEOUS HAZARDS.

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.

SEC. 57.95.36. OVERALL LOADING.

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.

SEC. 57.95.37. LOADING CARGO TANKS.

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.

SEC. 57.95.38. CONNECTION TO SHIP’S PIPING.

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.

SEC. 57.95.39. GAS-FREE INSPECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.95.40. OBSTRUCTIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.95.41. WHARF PIPING.


Pans or buckets shall be placed under all hose couplings when in use. Ends of pipe
lines on wharf and vessel shall be blind flanged.

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.

SEC. 57.95.42. HARBOR CONTAMINATION.

Every caution shall be exercised during transfer operations to prevent discharge of


petroleum products into the waters of the Los Angeles Harbor. The Terminal
Representative shall notify the Los Angeles Fire Department of any spill aboard the
vessel, or at the terminal which may enter the waters of the Harbor or otherwise warrant a
need for fire protection.

SEC. 57.95.43. HAZARD ABATEMENT.

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.

SEC. 57.95.44. CONDITIONS REQUIRING SUMMARY ACTION.

Cargo transfer operations shall not be started, or if started shall be discontinued


immediately by either the officer of the vessel or the Terminal Superintendent when any
of the following conditions come to his attention:

A. During severe electrical storm.

B. If a fire occurs on the wharf, or on tank vessel or in the vicinity.

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.

H. When ordered to do so by the Chief.

SEC. 57.95.45. DUTIES OF THE TERMINAL SUPERINTENDENT.

The Terminal Superintendent shall:

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.

C. Be responsible for the observance of an safety precautions prescribed, and shall


instruct all terminal employees in the proper use of all firefighting equipment provided
for the protection of terminal facilities and tank vessels in connection therewith.

D. Ascertain that signals and placards are displayed as required.

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.

K. Prohibit unauthorized or apparently intoxicated or disorderly persons from


entering the dock or wharf or boarding the vessel. When the transfer of petroleum to or
from the vessel has been discontinued, and when the vessel is ready for sea, the Terminal
Superintendent shall supervise the movement of any such person to the vessel on which
he is assigned taking such precautions as are warranted under the circumstances to assure
safe conduct.

L. Prohibit operation of automotive equipment within a distance of 100 feet of any


tank vessel transferring liquefied petroleum gases or Grade A, B, C, D, or E products
when tanks have previously contained Grade A, B, or C products and have not been
purged of such vapors, except electrically operated automotive equipment approved for
use in hazardous locations. In the event of a vapor emergency, he shall prohibit entrance
of all vehicles except Fire Department equipment to the terminal property and shall
prohibit the starting or operation of all vehicles already parked on the terminal property,
except on his approval or if the Fire Department is present, on approval of officer in
command.

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.

SEC. 57.95.46. DOCKING.

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:

By permission of the Los Angeles Fire Department and concurrence of Harbor


Department authority.

SEC. 57.95.47. SCUPPERS AND SEA VALVES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.48. RESPONSIBILITY FOR HANDLING VALVES.


Terminal Superintendent shall be responsible for handling wharf valves. Tank vessel
officer shall be responsible for handling ship’s valves.

SEC. 57.95.49. RESPONSIBILITY FOR PERSONNEL.

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.

SEC. 57.95.50. BLOWING OF BOILER TUBES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.51. RELIEF VALVES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.52. SIGNALS.

When vessel is transferring bulk petroleum products, signals as required by law shall
be displayed.

SEC. 57.95.53. SIGNS AT GANGPLANK.

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

SEC. 57.95.54. WARNING FOR SMALL CRAFT.

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.

SEC. 57.95.55. REPAIRS TO VESSEL OR WHARF.


Repairs to tank vessels and wharfs during transfer of Grade A, B, C, or D or liquefied
petroleum products shall be limited to minor repairs. No repairs shall be undertaken
without the specific approval of the tan vessel officer and the Terminal Superintendent.

A. Electrical Repairs - Repairs to electrical equipment may be undertaken, provided


all switches controlling the circuits are opened prior to starting the repairs. Open
switches must be locked or otherwise secured in an open position, and must be marked
against closure by a proper warning sign.

B. Engine Repairs – Emergency repairs to main engines shall be performed


continuously until completion, if possible, so that engines may be operative at the earliest
possible time. During such repairs, a tug boat shall be on standby call to move the vessel
in an emergency. The Terminal Superintendent shall notify the Los Angeles Fire
Department of the circumstances by telephone as soon as possible prior to the start of
repair operations.

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.

SEC. 57.95.56. REGULATIONS TO BE AVAILABLE.

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.

SEC. 57.95.57. MANNED BARGES.

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.

SEC. 57.95.58. UNMANNED BARGES.

On unmanned barges, a licensed deck officer or certified tankerman may be supplied


by the Terminal Superintendent.

SEC. 57.95.59. VENTS.

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.

57.96.12 Blow-out Protection.

57.96.13 Piping and Fittings.

57.96.14 Mechanical Equipment.

57.96.15 Extraordinary Hazardous Conditions.

57.96.16 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.96.01. SCOPE.

This division shall set forth the fire safety requirements concerning geological
subterranean exploring for petroleum, natural gas, or other hydrocarbons.

SEC. 57.96.02. DEFINITIONS.

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.

Unlimited Core Hole – A temporary geological exploratory core hole unrestricted as


to depth or diameter.

SEC. 57.96.10. LOCATION.

A. Limited core holes shall be restricted to location as follows:

1. A minimum of 10 feet from any property line.

2. A minimum of 25 feet from the exit of any building.


3. A minimum of 50 feet from the exit of any school, hospital, sanitarium, day
nursery, or place of assemblage.

B. Unlimited core holes shall be restricted to location as follows:

1. A minimum of 25 feet from any property line.

2. A minimum of 50 feet from the exit of any building.

3. A minimum of 100 feet from the exit of any school, hospital, sanitarium, day
nursery, or place of assemblage.

C. Any deviating from the minimum distances as stated in Subsections A and B of


Section 57.96.10 shall only be permitted when the application for the core hole permit, as
required pursuant to Subsection D of Section 57.05.20, is accompanied by written
permission from the adjoining property owners and the Chief.

SEC. 57.96.11. DERRICKS.

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.

SEC. 57.96.12. BLOW-OUT PROTECTION.

Every unlimited core hole shall be equipped with blow-out preventers installed and
maintained in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 45.

SEC. 57.96.13. PIPING AND FITTINGS.

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.

SEC. 57.96.14. MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT.

All mechanical equipment and appurtenances used in the processes of preparing,


drilling, boring, and abandoning core holes and collecting geological data shall be
adequately guarded and protected to insure the safety of the public.

SEC. 57.96.15. EXTRAORDINARY HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS.

A. When in the course of geological core hole drilling or boring operations,


subterranean areas are tapped which evidence pressures indicative of petroleum, natural
gas, or other hydrocarbons, the following precautions shall be taken immediately:
1. Drilling or boring will be stopped.

2. Blow-out prevention equipment will be actuated.

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.

SEC. 57.96.16. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

57.100.02 Location of Auto Fueling Stations and Public Garages.

57.100.03 Construction.

57.100.04 Ventilation.

57.100.05 Drainage.

57.100.06 Flammable Covers.

57.100.07 Sweeping and Absorbing Compounds.

57.100.08 Hazardous Materials.

57.100.09 Transfer Between Tanks.

57.100.10 Use of Class I or II Liquids.

57.100.11 Empty Drums and Containers.

57.100.12 Sources of Ignition.

57.100.13 Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

Dispensing Apparatus and Dispensing

57.100.20 Locating Dispensing Apparatus.

57.100.21 Installation of Dispensing Apparatus.

57.100.22 Prohibitions.

57.100.23 Hose and Nozzle.

57.100.24 Dispensing near Open Flame.

57.100.25 Dispensing into Portable Containers.


57.100.26 Remote Pumping Systems.

Public Garages

57.100.30 General.

57.100.31 Basement and Subbasement Garages.

57.100.32 Heating of Garages.

57.100.33 Repair Work in Garages.

57.100.34 Cleaning with Flammable Liquids.

57.100.35 Housekeeping in Garages.

57.100.36 Undercoating Application in Garages.

57.100.37 Smoking.

Fire Protection for Auto Fueling Stations and Public Garages

57.100.40 Signs – No Smoking – Stop Motor.

57.100.41 Fire Protection.

GENERAL

SEC. 57.100.01. SCOPE.

Auto Fueling Stations and Public Garages shall conform to all applicable provisions of
this article in addition to the provisions of this division.

SEC. 57.100.02. LOCATION OF AUTO FUELING STATIONS AND PUBLIC


GARAGES.

A. No Auto Fueling Station or Public Garage shall be located in any multiple


occupancy unless separated from other occupancies as required by Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

B. The cooking and serving of food or the sale or storage of combustible


merchandise not incidental to the use or operation of the Auto Fueling Station or Public
Garage shall be separated from such Auto Fueling Station or Public Garage by adequate
open areas of vapor-tight separations as required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building
Code).
SEC. 57.100.03. CONSTRUCTION.

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).

SEC. 57.100.04. VENTILATION.

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.

SEC. 57.100.05. DRAINAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.100.06. FLAMMABLE COVERS.

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.

SEC. 57.100.07. SWEEPING AND ABSORBING COMPOUNDS.

Sweeping compounds shall be immediately removed after use and pending final
disposal shall be stored in metal covered all metal containers.

SEC. 57.100.08. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

No person shall store combustible materials, compressed gases, flammable liquids or


other hazardous materials, not incidental to the operation or use in any Auto Fueling
Station or Public Garage except in a Hazardous Materials Room or as otherwise
permitted by applicable provisions of this article.

SEC. 57.100.09. TRANSFER BETWEEN TANKS.

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.

SEC. 57.100.10. USE OF CLASS I OR II LIQUIDS.


A. The use of Class I or II liquids for undercoating, painting, or spraying is
prohibited in any Auto Fueling Station.

B. The use of Class I or II liquids for undercoating, painting, or spraying in any


Public Garage shall be done in accordance with provisions of Division 80 and Section
57.100.36 of this article.

C. No Class I liquid shall be used for cleaning of parts or other similar purposes in
any Auto Fueling Station.

SEC. 57.100.11. EMPTY DRUMS AND CONTAINERS.

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.

SEC. 57.100.12. SOURCES OF IGNITION.

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.

SEC. 57.100.13. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS.

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.

B. Class II or III liquids may be stored inside buildings in approved containers of


not over 60 gallon capacity.

DISPENSING APPARATUS AND DISPENSING

SEC. 57.100.20. LOCATING DISPENSING APPARATUS.

A. Every dispensing apparatus used for dispensing Class I or II liquid shall be


located and maintained at least 10 feet from every property line and 25 feet from every
grease pit or basement.

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.

2. A dispensing apparatus, or pump therefor, may be located in or within 25 feet of


any basement or within 25 feet of a pit if installed with approved safeguards as
designated by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.100.21. INSTALLATION OF DISPENSING APPARATUS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

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.

B. Class I or II Liquids in Pipes:

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.

SEC. 57.100.22. PROHIBITIONS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 172,043, Eff. 7/13/98.)

A. Personnel Permitted to Dispense:

No owner, operator, permittee or employee of any Auto Fueling Station (except as


provided in Subsection C of this section), flammable gas or liquefied flammable gas Auto
Fueling Station, Aircraft Fueling Station or Marine Service Station, shall allow, sanction
or permit the dispensing of motor fuel in or upon any such premises by any person,
except by such owner, operator, permittee or competent person regularly employed in the
operation of such station.

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.

C. Automatic Dispensing Devices:

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.

D. Prohibited Nozzle Uses:

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:

1. The vehicle tank or container being filled is full.

2. The nozzle falls from the filling neck of the vehicle tank or container.

3. The nozzle is subjected to rough usage such as dropping or lack of proper


maintenance.

4. The vehicle is driven away with the nozzle in the tank.

E. Dispenser Hoses:

Dispenser hoses used in conjunction with nozzles equipped with approved latch-open
devices must be equipped with approved break-away couplings.

SEC. 57.100.23. HOSE AND NOZZLE.


No hose used for transferring Class I, II, or IIIA liquids from any fixed dispensing
apparatus shall be more than 14 feet long, including nozzle.

EXCEPTION:

The Chief may approve longer lengths of hose upon satisfactory proof of need.

SEC. 57.100.24. DISPENSING NEAR OPEN FLAME.

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.

SEC. 57.100.25. DISPENSING INTO PORTABLE CONTAINERS.

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.

SEC. 57.100.26. REMOTE PUMPING SYSTEMS.

A. Pumps:(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.) Pumps shall be designed


and installed in such a manner that no part of the system shall be subjected to pressures in
excess of the design working pressure of the system. Pumps installed above grade
outside buildings shall be located not less than six feet from lines of adjoining property
that may be built upon and not less than 10 feet from a property line that is adjacent to a
public way. Pumps shall be located not less than 10 feet from buildings which are not
noncombustible or of fire-resistive construction nor less than five feet from any building
opening which is less than four feet above grade. Pumps installed above grade shall be
substantially anchored and protected against damage by vehicles. An approved impact
valve, designed to close automatically in the event of severe impact or fire exposure, shall
be installed in the supply line at the base of each individual dispensing device.

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.

3. A supplementary disconnecting switch is required for auto fueling stations. This


switch shall be easily and readily accessible from the dispensing apparatus and shall be
posted with a permanent sign with letters one-inch high stating “GAS PUMP
SHUTOFF.” This switch must not be closer than 15 feet nor farther than 100 feet from
any dispenser. (Added by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

E. Testing: After completing the installation of a remote pumping system, that


portion of the piping system between the pump discharge and the connection fitting to the
dispensing unit shall be tested at least 30 minutes at a pressure 50 percent above the
design-operating pressure of the system or at 75 P.S.I.G., which ever is greater. All tests
of new construction shall be conducted in the presence of the Chief, and no subsurface
portion of the system shall be covered until it has been accepted.

F. Notification: Notification shall be given to the Chief prior to abandonment or


alteration of any part of a remote pumping system, except the dispenser.

PUBLIC GARAGES

SEC. 57.100.30. GENERAL.

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.

SEC. 57.100.31. BASEMENT AND SUBBASEMENT GARAGES.


Repairs involving motor overhauling, open flame, automotive fueling systems, or the
use of Class I or II liquids in any form are prohibited in any basement or sub-basement
garage.

SEC. 57.100.32. HEATING OF GARAGES.

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.

SEC. 57.100.33. REPAIR WORK IN GARAGES.

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.

SEC. 57.100.34. CLEANING WITH FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS.

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.

SEC. 57.100.35. HOUSEKEEPING IN GARAGES.

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.

SEC. 57.100.36. UNDERCOATING APPLICATION IN GARAGES.

The application of flammable undercoating materials may be conducted outside of


spray rooms, booths or tunnels, provided that the Chief finds that there is adequate
ventilation which will remove explosive and flammable mixtures from all portions of the
building and that the residue and vapors from such spraying will not endanger health, life
or property. The approval of the Chief for such operation is subject to conformance with
the following:

A. Electrical Requirements: The electrical equipment in the area where flammable


undercoating materials are applied is subject to the requirements of Chapter 9 of the
L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

B. Location: Undercoating shall be done in an approved location 25 feet of vapor


travel distance from open flames, pits or basements and storage of combustible waste
materials.

C. Ventilation: Natural ventilation shall be deemed to be adequate if one side of the


hazardous area is entirely open to the atmosphere during application.

D. Use:

1. Application shall be done directly from drums or tanks by means of an approved


pump device operating through a tight fitting cover.

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:

a. All drum storage of flammable undercoating material shall conform to applicable


provisions of this article.

b. The transferring of flammable undercoating materials from one drum to another


inside of buildings is prohibited. Replenishment of supply may be accomplished only by
the exchange of drums.

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

STORAGE TANKS – CAPACITY


Flash Point of Material
Capacity in Gallons

Below 70º F.
120

70º F. or greater but less than 100º F.


180

100º F. or greater but less than 150º F.


240

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.

f. Sealed Openings: No tank opening shall be permitted inside of a building unless


such openings are sealed in a manner to prevent the escape of flammable 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.

FIRE PROTECTION FOR AUTO FUELING STATIONS AND PUBLIC GARAGES

SEC. 57.100.40. SIGNS – NO SMOKING – STOP MOTOR.

“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.

SEC. 57.100.41. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. Auto Fueling Stations: Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided at every


Auto Fueling Station in accordance with the following:

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.

B. Public Garages: In every Public Garage where flammable materials are


dispensed, portable fire extinguishers shall be provided as required for Auto Fueling
Stations. In Public Garages where there is no dispensing of flammable materials,
portable fire extinguishers shall be provided as required by Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 101
AIRPORTS, HELIPORTS, AIRCRAFT FACTORIES AND
HANGARS
Section

57.101.01 Scope.

57.101.02 Dispensing of Flammable Liquids.

57.101.03 Transferring Fuel.

57.101.04 Flammable and Combustible Finishes.

57.101.05 Cleaning Aircraft with Flammable Liquids.

57.101.06 Drip Pans.

57.101.07 Source of Ignition.

57.101.08 Smoking.

57.101.09 Running Engines.

57.101.10 Repairing Aircraft.

57.101.11 Combustible Storage.

57.101.12 Permits Required.

57.101.13 Fire Protection.

57.101.14 Aircraft Loading Walkways.

57.101.15 Aircraft Fuel System Maintenance.

57.101.16 Welding and Cutting.

57.101.17 Defueling Aircraft.

57.101.18 Vegetation.

57.101.19 Transferring of Flammable Liquids.

57.101.20 Pumps.
57.101.21 Dispensing Hose and Nozzles.

57.101.22 Pesticides.

SEC. 57.101.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.101.02. DISPENSING OF FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS.

No dispensing or transfer apparatus handling flammable or combustible liquids shall


be located inside of any building maintained or located on an airport, heliport, aircraft
factory, or hangar unless located in a hazardous materials room or in an H-1, H-2 or H-5
occupancy.

SEC. 57.101.03. TRANSFERRING FUEL.

No flammable or combustible liquids shall be dispensed into or removed from the fuel
system of an aircraft in any aircraft factory or hangar.

SEC. 57.101.04. FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE FINISHES.

The application of Class I or II liquids as a finish to any aircraft shall be done only in
locations approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.101.05. CLEANING AIRCRAFT WITH FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS.

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.

SEC. 57.101.06. DRIP PANS.

Every aircraft factory and hangar shall be equipped and maintained with metal drip
pans under the engines of all aircraft stored therein.

SEC. 57.101.07. SOURCE OF IGNITION.

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.

B. No ignition source not a part of the operation shall be located, brought, or


permitted within 50 feet of any transfer apparatus at an aircraft fueling station.

SEC. 57.101.08. SMOKING.

“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.

SEC. 57.101.09. RUNNING ENGINES.

No person shall run the engine of any aircraft in any aircraft factory or hangar except
in approved engine test areas.

SEC. 57.101.10. REPAIRING AIRCRAFT.

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.

SEC. 57.101.11. COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE.

No person shall store combustible materials, flammable liquids, flammable or


liquefied compressed gas cylinders (other than fire protection equipment) or other
hazardous materials in an aircraft factory or hangar, except in Hazardous Materials
storage rooms or as otherwise permitted by this article.

SEC. 57.101.12. PERMITS REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.101.13. FIRE PROTECTION.

A. Portable Fire Extinguishers: Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in


accordance with Division 140 of this article. Every towing vehicle used for towing
aircraft shall be equipped with at least one portable fire extinguisher having a 20B:C
classification or greater.
B. Wheeled Extinguisher. In every aircraft factory or hangar there shall be at least
one large wheeled fire extinguisher having a rating of at least 80B:C and a minimum
capacity of 125 pounds of agent, located so the distance of travel thereto shall not exceed
50 feet from any aircraft.

C. Automatic Fire Extinguishing System. Every aircraft factory or hangar


exceeding 10,000 square feet floor area shall be provided with an automatic fire
extinguishing system.

SEC. 57.101.14. AIRCRAFT LOADING WALKWAYS.

The construction and protection of aircraft loading walkways shall comply with the
requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 56.

SEC. 57.101.15. AIRCRAFT FUEL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE.

A. Any person conducting aircraft servicing, maintenance, or testing of the fuel


system using the air ventilation procedures, shall reduce the fuel tank atmosphere to
below 20 percent of the lower flammable limit of the fuel vapors. Air ventilation, as used
herein, means to pass undiluted air (air not containing flammable vapors) through an
aircraft fuel tank to render the atmosphere of the tank below the lower flammable limit of
the fuel vapors involved. Before any inspection or work is performed, tests by a qualified
person shall be conducted to determine that the presence of flammable vapors in or
around the fuel tank does not constitute a fire or explosion hazard. This condition shall
be maintained throughout the period of inspection or work.

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.

F. Suitable warning signs shall be placed in conspicuous locations around the


aircraft to indicate that tank ventilation is in progress.

SEC. 57.101.16. WELDING AND CUTTING.


A. Whenever welding and cutting operations are conducted on an airport or in an
aircraft factory or hangar, a Special Permit shall be obtained from the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.101.17. DEFUELING AIRCRAFT.

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.

C. Defueling operations shall not be conducted in a hangar unless the hangar is


specifically designed as an aircraft repair hangar. A portable fire extinguisher with a
minimum classification of 20 B:C shall be provided within 25 feet of defueling
operations.

SEC. 57.101.18. VEGETATION.

Aircraft parking areas shall be kept free of all dry grass, weeds, vegetation, or other
combustible debris.

SEC. 57.101.19. TRANSFERRING OF FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS.

Transferring apparatus used or intended to be used for fueling aircraft shall be


approved and shall be installed, operated, and maintained in accordance with the
applicable provisions of this article.

SEC. 57.101.20. PUMPS.


All pumps of a positive displacement type shall be provided with a bypass relief valve
set at a pressure of not more than 35 percent in excess of the normal working pressure of
such unit. Such units shall be equipped and maintained with a pressure gage on the
discharge side of the pump.

SEC. 57.101.21. DISPENSING HOSE AND NOZZLES.

A. Only approved hose which is designed for the transferring of hydrocarbon


liquids will be permitted.

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.

SEC. 57.101.22. PESTICIDES.

(Added by Ord. No. 166,004, Eff. 6/28/90.)

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

57.103.01 Yard Storage.

57.103.03 Yard Maintenance.

57.103.04 Woodworking Areas.

57.103.05 Smoking.

57.103.06 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.103.01. YARD STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.103.03. YARD MAINTENANCE.

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.)

SEC. 57.103.04. WOODWORKING AREAS.

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.

SEC. 57.103.05. SMOKING.

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.

SEC. 57.103.06. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

B. Inside Buildings: Portable fire extinguishers inside buildings used in connection


with a lumber yard shall be provided and maintained as specified in Division 140.

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.

57.104.02 Buffing Rooms and Machines.

57.104.03 Storage and Handling of Flammables.

57.104.04 Ventilation.

57.104.05 Tire Storage.

Pressurized Rubber Cementing

57.104.10 Application of Cement.

57.104.11 Equipment Standards.

57.104.12 Location Standards.

57.104.13 Use and Maintenance Standards.

57.104.14 Housekeeping Standards.

Fire Protection for Tire Rebuilding Plants

57.104.20 Automatic Protection.

57.104.21 Fire Protection.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 57.104.01. SCOPE.

Tire rebuilding plants shall conform to all other applicable requirements of this article,
as well as to the following provisions.

SEC. 57.104.02. BUFFING ROOMS AND MACHINES.

Buffing machines and buffing operations shall be located in a Hazardous Materials


Room designed and constructed in compliance with Chapter 9 of the Los Angeles
Municipal Code. Each buffing machine shall be connected to a noncombustible
container, which is an integral part of the machine, or to an approved mechanical
collecting system for collecting and containing dust and solid particles.

SEC. 57.104.03. STORAGE AND HANDLING OF FLAMMABLES.

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.

SEC. 57.104.04. VENTILATION.

Each room where rubber cement is used or mixed or flammable solvents are applied,
shall be ventilated in an approved manner.

SEC. 57.104.05. TIRE STORAGE.

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.

PRESSURIZED RUBBER CEMENTING

SEC. 57.104.10. APPLICATION OF CEMENT.

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. There shall be a pressure regulating valve installed on the inlet side of


pressurized material tank.

E. There shall be a manually-operated shutoff valve in the discharge line of


pressurized material tank.

SEC. 57.104.12. LOCATION STANDARDS.

A. Spraying area must be designated by the Chief and so maintained.

B. A plot plan shall be submitted showing the area so determined.

C. Spraying area stall be adequately ventilated.

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.

F. There shall be no immediate sources of ignition within 25 feet.

SEC. 57.104.13. USE AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS.

A. Equipment shall be used for the intended purpose with the proper material and
operated as specified by the manufacturer.

B. Equipment shall be maintained in safe-operating condition.

SEC. 57.104.14. HOUSEKEEPING STANDARDS.

A. Overspray shall not be allowed to accumulate.

B. Spray area shall be maintained free of all combustible waste.


FIRE PROTECTION FOR TIRE REBUILDING PLANTS

SEC. 57.104.20. AUTOMATIC PROTECTION.

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.

SEC. 57.104.21. FIRE PROTECTION.

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

57.105.01 General Requirements.

57.105.02 Storage.

57.105.04 Welding and Cutting.

57.105.06 Fire Protection.

SEC. 57.105.01. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

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.

SEC. 57.105.02. STORAGE.

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.

SEC. 57.105.04. WELDING AND CUTTING.

Welding and cutting operations shall be in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 51.

SEC. 57.105.06. FIRE PROTECTION.

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.

B. Portable Fire Extinguishers: Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and


maintained in every auto wrecking yard, junk yard, and waste materials handling plant in
accordance with Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 110
ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES

Section

57.110.01 Scope.

57.110.02 Permit Required.

57.110.03 Management Responsibility.

Fire and Life Safety

57.110.10 Exit and Access Facilities.

57.110.11 Obstruction of Exit Facilities.

57.110.12 Stage Property and Scenery.

57.110.13 No Smoking Signs.

57.110.14 Motor Vehicles.

57.110.15 Open Flame.

57.110.16 Live Theatrical Productions.

57.110.17 Unvented Portable Heaters.

57.110.18 Flammable and Combustible Liquids.

57.110.19 Compressed Gases and Liquefied Flammable Gases.

Projection Rooms and Film Used in Assembly Occupancy

57.110.20 Projection Room Construction.

57.110.21 Projection of Cellulose Nitrate Film.

57.110.22 Handling and Storage of Cellulose Nitrate Film.

57.110.23 Flammable or Combustible Liquids in Projection Rooms.

57.110.24 Projection Room Equipment.

57.110.25 Persons in Projection Room.


57.110.26 Magazine Doors.

57.110.27 Winding Film.

57.110.28 Transporting Film.

Fire Protection Equipment

57.110.30 Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems.

57.110.31 Portable Fire Extinguishers.

57.110.32 Standing Concert Attendance Inside Structures.

57.110.33 Standing Concert Attendance Not in Structures.

SEC. 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).

SEC. 57.110.02. PERMIT REQUIRED.

When a building or portion of a building is used for a place of assemblage, a valid


Permit from the Chief is required in accordance with Division 4 of this article.

SEC. 57.110.03. MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY.

The owner, manager, or person in control of any assembly occupancy shall be


responsible for compliance with the fire and life safety provisions of this division. The
person in control of any assembly occupancy shall, upon request of the Chief, provide the
name, address, and telephone number of the owner, manager, representative, or lessee.
Every place of assemblage shall be under the constant supervision of the owner, manager,
or a person in control who shall be on the premises during the time that the occupancy is
open to the public.

FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY

SEC. 57.110.10. EXIT AND ACCESS FACILITIES.


The person in control of any assembly occupancy shall provide and maintain exits,
seating arrangements, exit signs, occupant loads, and access facilities in accordance with
Division 33 of this article.

SEC. 57.110.11. OBSTRUCTION OF EXIT FACILITIES.

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.

C. Obstruction of Exits by Persons: 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 assembly occupancy.

D. Waiting Spaces: In theaters, restaurants, and similar places of assemblage where


persons are admitted to the occupancy at times when seats are not available for them and
are allowed to wait in a lobby or similar space until seats are available, such use of the
lobby or similar space shall not encroach upon the required clear width of exits. Such
waiting shall be restricted to areas other than the required exitway. Maximum occupant
load for such waiting spaces shall be one person for each seven square feet of waiting
space. Exits shall be provided in addition to the exits specified for the main assembly
area and shall conform in arrangement with Division 33 of this article.

SEC. 57.110.12. STAGE PROPERTY AND SCENERY.

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:

Floor covering or the upholstery of furniture.

SEC. 57.110.13. NO SMOKING SIGNS.


The person in control of every projection room, theatre, or little theatre shall install
and maintain “NO SMOKING” signs in accordance with Division 23 of this article.

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.

SEC. 57.110.14. MOTOR VEHICLES.

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.

SEC. 57.110.15. OPEN FLAME.

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:

1. Approved heating appliances.

2. Smoking in any area where smoking is permitted.

3. The use of candles as part of a religious ritual, ceremony, or service, provided


that such candles are located in a portion of a room, building, or premises not normally
occupied by any persons except those charged with ministration duties, and provided that
such candles are safely supported in a manner approved by the Chief.

SEC. 57.110.16. LIVE THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.110.17. UNVENTED PORTABLE HEATERS.

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.

SEC. 57.110.18. FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS.

Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be used or stored within any assembly
occupancy.
EXCEPTIONS:

1. Quantities not exceeding 10 gallons for maintenance purposes and operation of


equipment when stored in approved containers and approved locations.

2. Storage in excess of 10 gallons that is used for maintenance purposes and


operation of equipment when stored in hazardous material cabinets.

SEC. 57.110.19. COMPRESSED GASES AND LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GASES.

A. No person shall, without a Special Permit, use or store compressed gases or


liquefied flammable gases within any assembly occupancy for demonstrations,
exhibitions, trade shows, lectures or any other purpose which in the opinion of the Chief
would create a fire, life, or panic hazard.

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:

1. Cylinders and their appurtenances shall be designed, fabricated, tested, and


maintained in accordance with Division 41 of this article. Cylinders and their system
components shall be approved and listed for their proposed use.

2. Cylinders shall be stored in a place and manner approved by the Chief.

3. The use or display of compressed gases or liquefied flammable gases shall not
exceed 30 consecutive days.

4. Liquefied flammable gas cylinders shall be installed in an upright position and be


secured to prevent movement.

5. Cylinders shall not be exposed to any heat above ambient temperature.

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.

D. Cylinder pressure regulating devices shall be located adjacent to the cylinder.


Cylinders and regulating devices shall be located and protected to prevent physical
damage.

PROJECTION ROOMS AND FILM USED IN ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCY

SEC. 57.110.20. PROJECTION ROOM CONSTRUCTION.

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).

SEC. 57.110.21. PROJECTION OF CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM.

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).

SEC. 57.110.22. HANDLING AND STORAGE OF CELLULOSE NITRATE FILM.

Persons handling or storing cellulose nitrate film shall do so in accordance with


Division 50 of this article.

SEC. 57.110.23. FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN PROJECTION


ROOMS.
No person shall store or use more than two pints of flammable or combustible liquids
in any projection room.

SEC. 57.110.24. PROJECTION ROOM EQUIPMENT.

The person in control of a projection room shall be responsible for the installation and
maintenance of the following equipment in each projection room:

A. At least one work bench constructed of approved material.

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.

E. An all-metal covered container for the storage of scrap film exclusively.

F. An all-metal covered container in which shall be placed all combustible rubbish.

G. An all-metal covered container in which shall be placed all hot carbon ends
exclusively.

SEC. 57.110.25. PERSONS IN PROJECTION ROOM.

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.

SEC. 57.110.26. MAGAZINE DOORS.

No person shall open the magazine door of a motion picture projection machine
during the projection of cellulose nitrate film.

SEC. 57.110.27. WINDING FILM.

No person shall wind cellulose nitrate film upon any reel in such a manner that it will
extend beyond the sides thereof.

SEC. 57.110.28. TRANSPORTING FILM.


No person shall transport cellulose nitrate film to or from any theater, motion picture
theater, or place of assemblage except in approved containers.

FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

SEC. 57.110.30. AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

Automatic fire extinguishing systems shall be installed and maintained as required in


Division 141 of this article or Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code).

SEC. 57.110.31. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided, installed, and maintained in every


assembly occupancy as required by Division 140 of this article.

SEC. 57.110.32. STANDING CONCERT ATTENDANCE INSIDE STRUCTURES.

(Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

1. Such permit shall be issued only if it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the


Chief that the physical layout of the event and the proposed security measures are
adequate to insure that the audience will neither rush the stage, nor gather at the stage in
such a manner as to create a dangerous level of crowd density.

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.

SEC. 57.110.33. STANDING CONCERT ATTENDANCE NOT IN STRUCTURES.

(Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

No person shall conduct, operate, maintain or allow standing concert attendance at a


public assemblage not in a structure except by authority of a Special Permit from the
Chief. Such permit shall be issued only if it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the
Chief that the physical layout of the event and the proposed security measures are
adequate to insure that the audience will neither rush the stage, nor gather at the stage in
such a manner as to create a dangerous level of crowd density.
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.
DIVISION 111
DAY CARE AND EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES

Section

57.111.01 Scope.

57.111.02 Day Care and Educational Occupancies Defined.

57.111.03 Permit Required.

57.111.04 Management Responsibility.

57.111.05 Emergency Plan.

57.111.06 Emergency Exit Drills.

57.111.07 Gate Entrances to School Grounds.

57.111.08 Open Flame Devices.

57.111.09 No Smoking.

57.111.10 Hazardous Materials.

57.111.11 Space Heating Appliance Location.

57.111.12 Classroom Aisles and Seats.

SEC. 57.111.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.111.02. DAY CARE AND EDUCATIONAL OCCUPANCIES DEFINED.


Group A, Division 2.1: Any assembly occupancy with an occupant load of 300 or
more without a stage and used for educational purposes.

Group A, Division 3: Any assembly occupancy with an occupant load of less than 300
without a stage and used for educational purposes.

Group B, Division 2: Any building or portion of a building used for educational


purposes beyond the twelfth grade with an occupant load of less than 50.

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.

SEC. 57.111.03. PERMIT REQUIRED.

A valid Permit in accordance with Division 4 of this article is required when a


building or portion of a building is used as a day care or educational occupancy.

SEC. 57.111.04. MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY.

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.

SEC. 57.111.05. EMERGENCY PLAN.

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.

SEC. 57.111.06. EMERGENCY EXIT DRILLS.


The person in control of any day care or educational occupancy for kindergarten
through twelfth grade students shall provide emergency exit drills as follows:

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.

SEC. 57.111.07. GATE ENTRANCES TO SCHOOL GROUNDS.

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.

SEC. 57.111.08. OPEN FLAME 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.

SEC. 57.111.09. NO SMOKING.

Smoking shall not be permitted in any classroom or other enclosed facility except in
approved designated areas.

SEC. 57.111.10. HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.


A. No person in any day care or educational occupancy shall use store, or dispense
any hazardous materials other than that amount required for maintenance, demonstration,
treatment, or laboratory work.

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.

2. Hazardous materials brought on the premises of an educational occupancy for use


in a laboratory shall be dated upon arrival. Each container shall bear the date the
container is opened for use. The date shall be marked in indelible ink. Hazardous
materials shall not be stored beyond the recommended period established by the
manufacturer or beyond a period deemed safe by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.111.11. SPACE HEATING APPLIANCE LOCATION.

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.

SEC. 57.111.12. CLASSROOM AISLES AND SEATS.

A. A building or portion of a building used for educational purposes shall provide


seating arrangements and aisles leading to the required exits as specified in Title 19,
C.A.C. This provision shall apply to every elementary and secondary school, high school,
and every State-owned or State-occupied community college, college, and university.

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.

57.112.02 Permit Required.

57.112.03 Management Responsibility.

57.112.04 Responsible Resident Required.

57.112.05 Posting or Distribution of Fire Safety Information.

57.112.06 Smoke Detector Requirements.

57.112.07 Smoke Detector Maintenance.

57.112.08 Flammable and Combustible Liquids in Dwelling Units and Guest Rooms.

57.112.09 Flammable and Combustible Liquids in Dwellings.

57.112.10 Unvented Portable Heaters.

57.112.11 Compressed Gases and Liquefied Flammable Gases.

57.112.12 Spark Arresters.

SEC. 57.112.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.112.02. PERMIT REQUIRED.


A valid Permit is required in accordance with Division 4 of this article to operate or
maintain a hotel three or more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms.

SEC. 57.112.03. MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY.

The owner, manager, or person in charge of any residential occupancy shall be


responsible for providing and controlling the fire and life safety provisions of this
division. The person in charge of any residential occupancy shall, upon request of the
Chief, furnish the name, address, and telephone number of the owner, manager,
representative, or lessee.

SEC. 57.112.04. RESPONSIBLE RESIDENT REQUIRED.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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.

SEC. 57.112.05. POSTING OR DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE SAFETY INFORMATION.

A. Posting in Guest Rooms in Hotels and Motels: Every owner, responsible


resident, administrator, or manager of a hotel or motel located in a building which is three
or more stories in height, shall cause the fire safety information specified in Subsection C
of this section to be posted and maintained in a clear and legible condition affixed as a
notice separate and apart from any other notice at a conspicuous location on the inside
surface of the main exit door or adjacent building surface from each guest room. The
information shall be printed on a durable material and permanently affixed so as to be
easily readable to the occupant of that guest room.

B. Distribution in Dwelling Units in Apartment Houses and Condominiums: Every


owner, responsible resident, administrator. manager, lessor or sublessor of an apartment
house or condominium. any portion of which is three or more stories in height, shall
cause the fire safety information specified in Subsection C. of this section to be
distributed. The distribution shall be to each occupant, tenant, buyer, lessee, or sublessee
thereof, and shall be accomplished prior to or at the time that person first occupies or
enters into possession of the premises.

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.

C. Fire Safety Information Required:

1. Fire safety information shall be printed in a clear, non-ornamental style of type


which is 12 points or larger in size. The fire safety information shall provide the reader
with the following instructions on actions to be taken in case of fire:

a. How to call the Fire Department.

b. How to alert others and where to activate the fire alarm system.

c. How to be protected inside a room threatened by fire.

d. How to evacuate the building.

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.

SEC. 57.112.06. SMOKE DETECTOR REQUIREMENTS.

A. Smoke detectors shall be provided in residential occupancies in accordance with


Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

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.

SEC. 57.112.07. SMOKE DETECTOR MAINTENANCE.

A. Smoke detectors required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code) shall be


maintained in dependable operating condition and tested every six months or as required
by the Chief. An accurate record of such tests shall be kept by the owner, manager, or
person in charge of the property, and such records shall be open to examination by the
Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.112.08. FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN DWELLING


UNITS AND GUEST ROOMS.

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:

1. The cleaning by dipping or submerging of any clothing, drapes, bedding, or


similar material.

2. The cleaning or polishing of floors, walls, ceilings, windows, furniture,


equipment, or similar surfaces.

3. Insecticides, pest sprays, or rodent exterminators.

4. Washing parts or removing grease or dirt.

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:

Storage in excess of these amounts may be approved by the Chief if stored in a


Hazardous Material Room or an H-l, H-2, or H-3 occupancy that has no openings into
portions of the building used by the public.

D. Basement:

1. Flammable liquids shall not be stored, handled, or used in basements of any


residential occupancy.

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).

SEC. 57.112.09. FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN DWELLINGS.

Storage of flammable and/or combustible liquids in dwellings shall be in approved


containers and shall be restricted to private garages, carports, or other approved locations.

A. The storage and use of Class IA liquids in dwellings is prohibited.

EXCEPTION:

Not more than two gallons of flammable aerosol containers.

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.

SEC. 57.112.10. UNVENTED PORTABLE HEATERS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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.

SEC. 57.112.11. COMPRESSED GASES AND LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GASES.

No person shall store or use compressed gases or liquefied flammable gases within a
residential occupancy.

EXCEPTION:

Permanent outside installations of containers and equipment when installed in


compliance with Division 42 of this article.

SEC. 57.112.12. SPARK ARRESTERS.

A. Every residential occupancy in which is installed any chimney. flue, or stovepipe


attached to any fireplace, stove, barbeque, or other device that burns any solid or liquid
fuel shall have such chimney, flue, or stovepipe equipped with an approved spark arrester
installed in such a manner as to be visible for the purposes of inspection and
maintenance.

B. No person shall maintain any chimney, flue, or stovepipe in such a manner as to


create a fire hazard.
DIVISION 113
INSTITUTIONAL OCCUPANCIES

Section

57.113.01 Scope.

57.113.02 Definitions.

57.113.03 Fire Clearances.

57.113.04 Permit Required.

57.113.05 Management Responsibility.

57.113.06 Decorative Materials.

57.113.07 Exit Path Lighting, Exit Signs, and Exit Sign Illumination.

57.113.08 Nonambulatory Persons.

57.113.09 Emergency Planning.

57.113.10 Restraint.

57.113.11 Storage of Hazardous Materials.

57.113.12 Hazardous Areas.

57.113.13 Heating Appliances.

57.113.14 Lamp Guards.

57.113.15 Grounding Safeguards.

57.113.16 Fire Clearance Safety Inspections.

SEC. 57.113.01. SCOPE.

(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

The following words used in this division shall be defined as follows:

Bedridden Person - A person confined to a bed, requiring assistance in turning or


unable to independently transfer to and from bed, and unable to leave a building
unassisted under emergency conditions. (Added by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.113.03. FIRE CLEARANCES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.113.04. PERMIT REQUIRED.

(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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:

Group I, Division 2.2A occupancies.

SEC. 57.113.05. MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY.

The owner, manager, or person in charge of any institutional occupancy shall be


responsible for providing and controlling the fire and life safety provisions of this
division. The person in charge of any institutional occupancy shall, upon request by the
Chief, furnish the name, address, and telephone number of the owner, manager, owner’s
representative, or lessee. Every institutional occupancy shall be under the constant
supervision of the owner, manager, or person in charge.

SEC. 57.113.06. DECORATIVE MATERIALS.


Only flame retardant, flame retardant treated, or noncombustible decorative materials
shall be allowed in institutional occupancies, in accordance with Division 22 of this
article.

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.

(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.113.08. NONAMBULATORY PERSONS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

A. Housing: The housing of nonambulatory persons is prohibited above the first


story of any institutional building which is not of Type I or II construction as defined in
Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).

B. Community Care Facilities: (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)


Nonambulatory persons are prohibited in any community care facility, except persons
who require the use of mechanical aids, such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, or canes
and need no assistance from any other person in exiting from a building. All areas within
the community care facility must be approved in writing by the Chief for such use. This
approval is limited to a maximum of six persons.

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.

C. Sleeping Rooms: (Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.) Sleeping


rooms approved for nonambulatory persons shall conform to the following minimum
requirements:
1. The room shall be located on the ground floor except in buildings of Type I or II
construction or Type V one-hour construction as per Health and Safety Code, Section
13131.5.

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.

3. An exit shall be provided directly or semi-directly to the exterior of the building

D. Passageways in Rooms: Passageways shall be maintained in rooms housing


nonambulatory bedridden persons in such a manner that it is possible to remove a bed
from the room without having to move any other bed or article of furniture, except small
bed stands or trays. This shall not be required in semi-private rooms having an approved
capacity of only two beds.

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.

SEC. 57.113.09. EMERGENCY PLANNING.

A. Every institution as required by the Chief shall implement a written and


approved Fire/Life Safety Program which includes procedures for notifying the Fire
Department, procedures for the use of fire protection equipment, and an emergency
evacuation plan.

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:

1. Evacuation routes, including locations of exits.

2. The location of fire alarm pull stations.

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.

6. Assignment of a responsible person to call the Fire Department upon notification


of any fire or upon the activation of any fire protection system.

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.

SEC. 57.113.10. RESTRAINT.

Patients shall not be restrained in any institutional occupancy.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Institutional occupancies licensed and constructed for such use in accordance


with the provisions of Title 24, C.C.R (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

2. Restraint shall not be construed to include non-ambulatory persons, nor shall it


include the use of bandage material, strip sheeting, or other fabrics or materials, such as
soft ties, used to restrain persons in hospital type beds or wheelchairs with the intention
of preventing injury, provided an approved method of quick release is maintained. A
facility employing the use of soft ties, however, shall be classified as a building used to
house non-ambulatory persons.

SEC. 57.113.11. STORAGE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

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.

A. Flammable and Combustible Liquids:

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:

1. Hazardous materials shall not be stored beyond the recommended period


established by the manufacturer or beyond a period deemed safe by the Chief in
accordance with safe practices for the handling and storage of hazardous 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.

SEC. 57.113.12. HAZARDOUS AREAS.

A. Occupancies, or portions thereof, used or intended to be used as operating


rooms, surgeries, delivery rooms, storage rooms, and similar hazardous locations in
which flammable or nonflammable mixtures of gases are used or stored shall be
maintained in accordance with the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standards No. 46 and 66.

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

Carbon Dioxide Gray

Nitrous Oxide Light Blue

Cyclopropane Orange

Helium Brown

Ethylene Red

Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen Gray and Green

Helium and Oxygen Brown and Green

NOTE: Polished metal or chrome-plated cylinders shall have color tags in addition to
color markings and labels.

SEC. 57.113.13. HEATING APPLIANCES.

A. Portable electrical heating appliances shall not be used in any institutional


occupancy without the approval of the Chief. All gas fired heating devices shall be
connected to the gas supply by means of approved rigid or semi-rigid piping. All heating
appliances shall be provided with guards that will provide protection against ignition of
clothing and other combustible material.

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.

SEC. 57.113.14. LAMP GUARDS.

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.

SEC. 57.113.15. GROUNDING SAFEGUARDS.


Portable electric appliances shall not be placed closer than five feet to wash basins,
bath tubs, showers, or other grounded surfaces.

SEC. 57.113.16. FIRE CLEARANCE SAFETY INSPECTIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 169,902, Eff 7/30/94.)

A. As provided by Health and Safety Code Section 13235, a prospective state


licensee of a community care facility, as defined by Section 1502 of the State Health and
Safety Code or a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined by Section 1569.2 of
the State Health and Safety Code, may request a pre-inspection of the facility prior to
final clearance approval in connection with the issuance of such state license. A fee of
$50.00 shall be charged for the pre-inspection of a facility serving 25 or fewer persons
and a fee of $100.00 for a facility serving more than 25 persons. Such fee shall be paid to
the Department prior to final clearance approval by the Department.

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.

57.115.04 Fire Safety Officer.

57.115.05 Structural Stability.

57.115.06 Exits.

57.115.07 Maintenance of Exit Ways.

57.115.08 Exit Signs and Illumination.

57.115.09 Occupant Load.

57.115.10 Parking of Automobiles.

57.115.11 Smoking and Open Flame.

57.115.12 Storage of Flammable or Combustible Liquids.

57.115.13 Liquefied Flammable Gas or Compressed Gas.

57.115.14 Heating Equipment.

57.115.15 Flame-retardant Treatment.

57.115.16 Housekeeping.

57.115.17 Fire Protection Equipment.

Tents

57.115.18 Location of Tents.

57.115.19 Seating Arrangements for Tents.


Membrane Structures

57.115.20 Construction, Area, and Height.

57.115.21 Location of Membrane Structure.

57.115.22 Inflation System.

SEC. 57.115.01. SCOPE.

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

SEC. 57.115.02. PERMITS.

(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

B. All electrical installations shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 9, Article


3, of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

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).

SEC. 57.115.03. DEFINITIONS.

The following words and phrases used in this division shall be defined as follows:

Membrane – A thin, flexible, impervious material capable of being supported by an air


pressure of 1.5 inches of water column. Membrane Structure A temporary structure that
includes but is not limited to the following:

1. Air-Inflated Structure – A building where the shape of the structure is maintained


by air pressurization of cells or tubes to form a barrel vault over the usable area.
Occupants of such a structure do not occupy the pressurized area used to support the
structure.
2. Air-Supported Structure – A building wherein the shape of the structure is
attained by air pressure and occupants of the structure are within the elevated pressure
area. Air-supported structures are of two basic types:

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.

3. Cable Structure – A nonpressurized structure in which a mast and cable system


provides support and tension to the membrane weather barrier and the membrane imparts
structural stability to the structure.

4. Frame-Covered Structure – A nonpressurized building wherein the structure is


composed of a rigid framework to support tensioned membrane which provides the
weather barrier.

Noncombustible Membrane Structure – A membrane structure in which the membrane


and all component parts of the structure are noncombustible material.

SEC. 57.115.04. FIRE SAFETY OFFICER.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

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.

C. Filming inside tents requires Fire Safety Officers.

EXCEPTION:

The Chief may modify or approve an alternate method of compliance with this section
if minimum life safety requirements are met.

SEC. 57.115.05. STRUCTURAL STABILITY.

A. Tents and membrane structures and their appurtenances shall be adequately


roped, braced, and anchored to withstand the elements of weather against collapsing.
Evidence of structural stability shall be furnished to the Chief upon request and shall be
in accordance with Part 2, Title 24, C.A.C and Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building
Code).

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.

C. A system capable of supporting the membrane in the event of deflation shall be


provided in all air-supported and air-inflated structures having an occupant load of 50 or
more or when covering a swimming pool regardless of occupant load. The system shall
maintain the membrane at least seven feet above the floor, seating area, or surface of the
water.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Membrane structures used as a roof for Type I or Type II fire-resistive


construction must be maintained not less than 25 feet above floor or seating areas.

2. Public schools shall conform to the provisions of this section regardless of


occupant load.

SEC. 57.115.06. EXITS.

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.

B. Exit aisles shall be a minimum width of 44 inches.

C. Exit openings shall be spaced at approximately equal intervals around the


perimeter of the tent or membrane structure and shall be so located that no point within
the tent or membrane structure is more than 100 feet of travel distance from an exit.

D. Exits shall be provided in accordance with Table 115-A.

TABLE 115-A

OCCUPANT LOAD OF TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES


Occupant Load
Minimum Number of Exits
Minimum Width of Each Exit Opening – in Feet

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

2000 And More


6
1 Additional Foot For Each 50 Persons

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.

2. Exit door curtains shall be of a color contrasting to that of the tent.

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.

G. The arrangement of aisles shall be subject to approval by the Chief.

SEC. 57.115.07. MAINTENANCE OF EXIT WAYS.

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.

SEC. 57.115.08. EXIT SIGNS AND ILLUMINATION.

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.

B. Exit signs in any tent or membrane structure having an occupant load of 50 or


more shall be illuminated on the surface of the sign whenever the tent or membrane
structure is occupied.

C. In addition, exit signs shall be illuminated in tents with occupant loads of 300 or
more persons in the manner specified below:

1. Two separate sources of power.

2. Two separate branch circuits, one of which shall be separate from all other
circuits.

SEC. 57.115.09. OCCUPANT LOAD.

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.

B. Any membrane structure shall be limited to an occupant load of 299.

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.

SEC. 57.115.10. PARKING OF AUTOMOBILES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944, Eff. 8/20/94.)

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.

SEC. 57.115.11. SMOKING AND OPEN FLAME.


A. Smoking shall not be permitted inside any tent or membrane structure or in any
adjacent areas where hay, straw, sawdust, or other highly combustible materials are used
or stored. Approved “NO SMOKING” signs shall be conspicuously posted in
accordance with Division 23 of this article. It shall be the responsibility of the permittee
to enforce this prohibition.

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.

SEC. 57.115.12. STORAGE OF FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS.

A. Flammable or combustible liquids shall not be stored inside any tent or


membrane structure nor within 50 feet of any tent or membrane structure used as a place
of assemblage.

B. Outside storage and dispensing of flammable or combustible liquids shall be in


accordance with Division 30 of this article.

SEC. 57.115.13. LIQUEFIED FLAMMABLE GAS OR COMPRESSED GAS.

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.)

SEC. 57.115.14. HEATING EQUIPMENT.

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).

C. Comfort heating equipment shall be rigidly supported to prevent overturning and


shall be provided with barriers or guards to protect persons against burns and ignition of
clothing.

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.

E. Gas, solid, or liquid fuel-burning appliances, other than comfort heating


equipment, including, but not limited to, forges, kitchen ranges, stoves, and water heaters
shall not be located within nor less than 50 feet from any tent or membrane structure.
SEC. 57.115.15. FLAME-RETARDANT TREATMENT.

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.

C. A Certificate of Flame Resistance issued by the State Fire Marshal shall be


retained at the premises on which the tent or membrane structure is located.

SEC. 57.115.16. HOUSEKEEPING.

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.

SEC. 57.115.17. FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT.

Portable fire extinguishers and other fire protection equipment shall be provided for
every tent or membrane structure as follows:

1. One Class 2A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided in every tent or


membrane structure having a floor area of less than 1,000 square feet and also one in
each auxiliary tent or membrane structure adjacent thereto. One additional Class 2A
portable fire extinguisher shall be provided for each additional 2,000 square feet or
fraction thereof

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

SEC. 57.115.18. LOCATION OF 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.

SEC. 57.115.19. SEATING ARRANGEMENTS FOR TENTS.

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

SEC. 57.115.20. CONSTRUCTION, AREA, AND HEIGHT.


A. Construction: Membrane structures shall be classified as Type V-N construction,
except when noncombustible membranes are used, they may be classified as Type II-N
construction.

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.

C. Height: Membrane structures shall not exceed one story.

SEC. 57.115.21. LOCATION OF MEMBRANE STRUCTURE.

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.

SEC. 57.115.22. INFLATION SYSTEM.

A. General: Membrane structures shall be provided with primary and auxiliary


inflation systems as required by this section.

B. Equipment Requirements: The inflation system shall consist of one or more


blowers and shall include provisions for automatic control to maintain the required
inflation pressures. The system shall be so designed as to prevent over pressurization of
the system.

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.

Blowers shall be centrifugal and shall:

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).

3. Be housed within a weather-protection structure to assure continued service in all


weather conditions.

4. Be equipped with back-draft check dampers to minimize air loss when


inoperative.
Any air-supported or air-inflated structure used as a place of assemblage shall be
furnished with not less than two blowers, each of which has adequate capacity to
maintain full inflation pressure with normal leakage.

Blower inlet location shall be approved by the Chief to provide protection from air
contamination.

C. Standby Power: Whenever an auxiliary inflation system is required, an approved


standby power-generating system shall be provided. The system shall be equipped with a
suitable means for automatically starting the generator set upon failure of the normal
electrical service and for automatic transfer and operation of all the required electrical
functions at full power within 60 seconds of such normal service failure. Standby power
shall be capable of operating independently for a minimum of two hours.
DIVISION 118
NEW HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS

Section

57.118.01 Scope.

57.118.02 Fire Control Room.

57.118.03 Building Communication System.

57.118.04 Fire Department Voice Communication System.

57.118.05 Elevator System.

57.118.06 Fire Protective Signaling System.

57.118.07 Emergency Smoke Control System.

57.118.08 Standby and Emergency Power System.

57.118.09 Stairshaft Doors.

57.118.10 Pressurized Stairshafts.

57.118.11 Automatic Sprinkler Systems.

57.118.12 Emergency Helicopter Landing Facility.

SEC. 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.

SEC. 57.118.02. FIRE CONTROL ROOM.

(Title and section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)


A fire control room shall be provided in the building design for every new high-rise
building and located near or adjacent to the main entrance to the building. The fire
control room must be a minimum of 100 square feet with a minimum dimension of 10
feet. This room shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than
one-hour fire-resistive construction with all openings protected by assemblies having a
fire-resistive rating of not less than 45 minutes.

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:

A. The building communication system panel and controls (Public Address


System).

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.

F. Sprinkler valve and water flow detector annunciator panels.

G. Standby power and emergency electrical power systems status indicators.

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.

J. Stairway pressurization system control switches and operation indicators.

K. Fire pump status indicators and water supply tank status indicators.

L. Other fire protection equipment and system controls.

SEC. 57.118.03. BUILDING COMMUNICATION SYSTEM.

A building communication system shall be a one-way system providing


communication from the building control station to the occupants of the building and
shall be provided as follows:
1. To all normally occupied areas of the building with sufficient power and speaker
quality to enable voice messages to be clearly and distinctly heard.

2. The sounding of a fire alarm signal in any given area or floor shall not prohibit
voice communication to other areas or floors.

3. A microphone and zone selector switches shall be provided in the building


control station.

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.

SEC. 57.118.04. FIRE DEPARTMENT VOICE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM.

A sound-powered telephone communication system capable of communication


between all required locations and between such locations and the building control station
shall be provided as follows:

A. Phone jacks shall be located:

1. At every floor level in each enclosed exit stairway.

2. At every exterior location where an enclosed exit stairway exits to a public way.

3. At the exterior of each enclosed exit stairway located on the roof.

4. In each elevator car, elevator machine room, elevator lobby, and each lobby
which exits to a public way.

B. All exterior phone jacks shall be weather protected.

C. Sound-powered phone equipment, including communication panel, phone sets,


and location of phone jacks are subject to Fire Department approval.

D. Sound-powered phone jacks shall be designed to preclude tampering and be


approved by the Chief.

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.

3. The elevator shall be interconnected with the standby power system.

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.

E. Special Requirements: Except as provided herein, elevators shall conform to the


requirements of Article 51, Part 2, Title 24, C.A.C.

SEC. 57.118.06. FIRE PROTECTIVE SIGNALING SYSTEM.

A. A dependable method of sounding an alarm of fire throughout the building shall


be provided in accordance with the requirements in Division 122 of this article. Manual
pull stations shall be located in the corridor on each building level adjacent to stairshafts,
at the roof adjacent to the exterior door of each stairshaft, and at each elevator lobby.
Sounding devices shall be clearly audible throughout the building or on the floor of
actuation with the capability of sounding a general alarm throughout the building by
manual means from the building control station. Bells or a building communication
system may be used as a sounding device. Installation, alteration, and major repair of fire
protective signaling systems shall be performed under Permit of the Department of
Building and Safety (Electrical Division).

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:

1. Manual pull stations.

2. Fire sprinkler flow switches.

3. Elevator recall/elevator smoke detectors.

4. Area smoke and/or heat detectors.

5. Building air-handling (HVAC) smoke detectors.

SEC. 57.118.07. EMERGENCY SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEM.


A system for removing products of combustion by natural or mechanical ventilation
shall be provided for every floor or level of a high-rise building as follows:

A. Natural Ventilation: Smoke evacuation shall consist of openable or tempered


glass windows in the exterior wall on each floor of the building. Such venting facilities
shall be provided at the rate of 20 square feet per 50 lineal feet of exterior wall in each
story and distributed around the perimeter at not more than 50 foot intervals. Windows
shall be clearly identified with a two-inch minimum diameter disc of luminour and/or
reflective material with the word “TEMPERED” permanently applied to one of the lower
inside corners either directly on the glass or on the frame.

B. Mechanical Ventilation: Building air-handling equipment (H.V.A.C.) designed


for this purpose may be used, provided the system, under fire conditions, exhausts at a
rate of not less than six changes of air per hour from the floor involved and the system
exhausts directly to the exterior of the building without recirculating to other sections of
the building. Mechanical ventilation equipment controls shall be located in the building
control station and have the capability of controlling one or all floors for smoke
evacuation.

C. Below Grade Levels: All areas below grade level shall be provided with
mechanical ventilation.

SEC. 57.118.08. STANDBY AND EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEM.

A. Standby Power:

1. Generation System: A permanently installed on-site standby power generation


system consisting of one or more generators including the prime mover shall be
provided. In the event of failure of the normal source of electrical service, the standby
power generation system shall provide an alternate source of electrical energy to serve at
least the designated power loads set forth in Subdivision 2 of this subsection.

2. Power Loads: The power load requirements for sizing the standby power
generation system shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following:

a. Exit signs and exit illumination.

b. Elevator car lighting.

c. Fire alarm systems.

d. Fire detection systems.

e. Sprinkler alarm systems.

f. Electrically driven fire pumps.


g. Building communication systems.

h. Smoke control systems.

i. Elevators designated for Fire Department and emergency use.

j. Lighting circuits supplying elevator lobbies, the building control station, the
generator room, and the fire pump room.

k. Exterior window washing equipment. (Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff.


11/16/91.)

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:

1. Electrical systems and equipment specified herein are classed as emergency


systems and shall be installed in every new high-rise building.

a. Exit signs and exit illumination.

b. Elevator car lighting.

c. Fire alarm systems.

d. Fire detection systems.

e. Sprinkler alarm systems.

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.

SEC. 57.118.09. STAIRSHAFT DOORS.

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.

D. Locking of enclosed exit stairshaft doors:

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:

a. A manual signal from the building control station.

b. The actuation of a fire alarm device.

c. Upon failure of electrical power.

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.

SEC. 57.118.10. PRESSURIZED STAIRSHAFTS.

Pressurized stairshafts shall be provided as required by Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.


(Building Code and Mechanical Code). These requirements shall be subject to review
and approval by the Chief and any modification granted thereto shall be subject to Fire
Department concurrence.
SEC. 57.118.11. AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS.

A. Every new high-rise building shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system


installed in conformance to LAFD Standard No. 59 and the provisions of this subsection.
(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.

B. Sprinkler control valves and water-flow detecting devices shall be provided at


the lateral connection to the riser on each floor. Such valves and devices shall be
electrically supervised to automatically sound an appropriate signal to the building
control station.

C. A minimum on-site water supply equal to a 20-minute demand or 15,000


gallons, whichever is the smaller, shall be provided. This water supply shall be
automatically available for the sprinkler system if the principal water supply fails. The
riser of the required standpipe system may be combined with the sprinkler system riser
provided the sizing of the riser is sufficient to accommodate both sprinkler and standpipe
demands.

D. In addition to other provisions of this article, automatic sprinkler systems shall


comply with the requirements set forth in Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Building Code).
These requirements are subject to review by the Chief and any modification granted
thereto shall be subject to concurrence by the Department of Building and Safety.

SEC. 57.118.12. EMERGENCY HELICOPTER LANDING FACILITY.

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:

Approach-Departure Path – The flight path of the helicopter as it approaches or


departs from the emergency helicopter landing facility designated take off and landing
area. The approach-departure path is measured from the edge of the takeoff and landing
area and is a rising slope determined by a ratio of eight feet horizontal distance for every
one foot of vertical height.

Peripheral Area – An obstruction free (i.e. no intrusions into the approach-departure


path) area adjacent to the takeoff and landing area serving as a safety zone.

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.

B. An emergency helicopter landing facility shall meet the following minimum


requirements:

1. Approach-Departure Path: The facility shall have two approach-departure paths


with a 90 degree arc of separation between the two.

2. Touchdown Pad: The touchdown pad shall have a dimension of 50 feet by 50


feet.

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.

5. A wind-indicating device shall be provided.

6. Fire Protection: One Class H standpipe in accordance with Chapter 9 of the


L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code) shall be provided. A weather resistant cabinet for fire hose
shall be provided with 100 feet of rubber-lined, single-jacketed, one and one-half inch
fire hose equipped with a fog nozzle.

7. The emergency helicopter landing facility shall be marked as indicated in Figure


118-A.

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

MARKINGS UTILIZING A SQUARE FOR A ROOF-TOP EMERGENCY


HELICOPTER LANDING FACILITY.

(Amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)


NOTES:

1. The preferred touchdown pad background color is white.

2. The red numeral indicates the allowable weight, in thousands of pounds, that the
facility is capable of supporting.

3. The numeral shall be oriented toward magnetic north.

4. Allowable weight shall not be in metric units.


DIVISION 119
HIGH-RISE BUILDING ANNUAL INSPECTION AND PERMIT FEE

(Division 119 Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

Section

57.119.01 Scope.

57.119.02 Definitions.

57.119.03 Permit Required

57.119.04 Power of Revocation and Suspension.

57.119.05 Permit Fee.

57.119.06 Non-compliance Charge.

SEC. 57.119.01. SCOPE.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

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.

SEC. 57.119.02. DEFINITIONS.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

For the purposes of this division:

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.

SEC. 57.119.03. PERMIT REQUIRED.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

A. Applications For Permit. No person or owner shall operate or maintain a new or


existing high-rise building without having obtained an annually renewable permit
pursuant to this section. As to buildings constructed prior to January 1 of the year,
including buildings constructed prior to the effective date of these regulations, application
for permit shall be filed on or before January 1 following the date of construction or the
effective date of these regulations. Renewal applications shall be filed on or before
January of each year. In the event no application or renewal application is filed by
January 1, the building will be deemed to be operating without a permit. The date of
construction shall be the date of issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy by the
Department of Building and Safety. All applications for permit shall be filed with the
Department, and shall be in writing on forms provided by the Department. The initial or
renewal application for permit shall contain the following information:

1. The name and address of the applicant.

2. A description of the property by street and number, as well as the County


Assessor map, book, page and parcel number.

3. Name and address of the owner of the building.

4. A statement signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized representative


stating that the applicant exercises charge and control over the operation and maintenance
of the high-rise building and agrees to comply with all regulations, laws or ordinances
pertaining thereto.

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:

1. The name of the person to whom issued.

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.

3. The signature of the Chief printed thereon.

4. The date of expiration of the permit and the date upon which the annual permit
fee shall be due and payable.

SEC. 57.119.04. POWER OF REVOCATION AND SUSPENSION.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

A. Authority To Revoke Or Suspend. Notwithstanding any other provision of this


article to the contrary, the Chief shall have the power to revoke or suspend any permit
upon proof to the satisfaction of the Chief of a 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, applicable law or the terms and conditions of
any permit. Such revocation or suspension shall be in accordance with the provisions of
Division 3 of this article. Whenever any person fails to pay the permit fee as provided for
in Section 57.119.05, prior to its becoming delinquent, the Chief, upon hearing, after
giving such person 10 days notice in writing specifying the time and place of hearing and
requiring the person to show cause why the permit shall not be revoked for such failure,
may revoke or suspend the permit issued herein. Notice shall be served in the same
manner as notices are served under Section 21.16 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.

B. Operation After Revocation or Suspension. It shall be unlawful for any person


to operate or maintain any high-rise building after the permit issued therefor has been
suspended or revoked pursuant to the provisions of this division unless the permit has
been reinstated or a new permit issued. Any person who operates or maintains a high-rise
building after the permit issued therefor has been suspended or revoked pursuant to the
provisions of this section, and before such suspended permit has been reinstated or a new
permit issued, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

SEC. 57.119.05. PERMIT FEE.


(Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

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.)

2. Manner of Approval Of Schedule. 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. 173,410, 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.

4. Where a high-rise building is connected to another building(s) by a permanent


above-ground structure or structures designed to permit pedestrian and/or vehicular
passage from one building to another, and the buildings so connected are under common
ownership, the charge per square foot shall apply to each chargeable square foot of the
buildings so connected, including the connecting structure or structures, even though one
or more of the buildings so connected is not itself a high-rise building.

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.

7. A partially vacant building as defined herein shall be subject to a minimum


charge.

SEC. 57.119.06. NON-COMPLIANCE CHARGE.

(Added by Ord. No. 168,851, Eff. 8/2/93.)

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.

57.121.03 Permits Required.

57.121.04 Construction and Installation.

57.121.05 Notification.

57.121.06 Operating Conditions.

57.121.07 Electrical Equipment.

SEC. 57.121.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.121.02. DEFINITIONS.

The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be defined as
follows:

Alarm Signal – A signal indicating an emergency requiring immediate action, such as


an alarm for fire from a manual pull station, a waterflow alarm, or an alarm from a fire
protective signaling system.

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.

SEC. 57.121.03. PERMITS REQUIRED.

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.

SEC. 57.121.05. NOTIFICATION.

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:

Fire alarm signals received from a single-family residence shall be verified by


telephone.

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.

C. No person shall use devices which automatically transmit prerecorded or taped


communication of any kind directly to the Fire Department emergency number for the
purpose of notification of a fire or other emergency. Any person who fails to discontinue
the use of such device after receipt of a written notice from the Fire Department shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor.

SEC. 57.121.06. OPERATING CONDITIONS.

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.

SEC. 57.121.07. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.


A. All electrical equipment and wiring within any central station shall be installed
in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

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.

C. All devices, combinations of devices, and other equipment used or installed in


any central station signaling system shall be listed by an approved agency for the purpose
for which it is being used or approved by the Chief and the Department of Building and
Safety (Electrical Division).
DIVISION 122
FIRE PROTECTIVE SIGNALING SYSTEMS

Section

57.122.01 Scope.

57.122.02 Definitions.

57.122.03 General Requirements.

57.122.04 Testing.

57.122.05 Operating and Test Procedures.

57.122.06 Emergency Telephone Number.

57.122.07 Location of Component Equipment.

57.122.08 Special Requirements for Fire Alarm Systems by Occupancy.

57.122.09 Maintenance of Equipment.

SEC. 57.122.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.122.02. DEFINITIONS.

The following words and phrases, used in this division, shall be defined as follows:

Alarm Signal – A signal indicating an emergency requiring immediate action, such as


an alarm for fire from a manual pull station, a water flow alarm, an alarm from an
automatic fire protective signaling system, or other emergency signal.

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.

Heat-Activated Detectors – Detectors capable of reacting to rapidly rising or elevated


temperatures.
HVAC – An abbreviation for the words “heating, ventilation, air conditioning.”

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.

SEC. 57.122.03. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

A. Approval of Equipment and Systems: All devices, combination of devices, and


other equipment used or installed in any fire protective signaling system shall be listed by
the State Fire Marshal and the systems shall be approved by the Chief. Equipment,
devices, and materials shall also comply with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical
Code).

B. Prohibitions: (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) The following


shall not be approved as a part of a fire protective signaling system:

1. Municipal fire protective signaling systems.

2. Central station signaling systems.

3. Auxiliary or accessory equipment including but not limited to security alarms,


recording or other nonfire related equipment.

4. Telephones.

5. Devices which automatically retransmit signals or taped communications of any


kind directly to the Fire Department and which are commonly referred to as “dialers.”

6. Auxiliary fire protective signaling systems or auxiliary event recording


equipment.

7. Nonfire related circuits and equipment of computers used in fire protective


signaling systems.

8. Proprietary protective signaling systems receiving and transmitting equipment


such as an installation which serves contiguous and noncontiguous properties under one
ownership located at the protected property.
EXCEPTION:

Systems and/or equipment specified in item Nos. 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8 above may be


connected to fire protective signaling systems if they are so designed and arranged that:

1. The electrical design of the equipment or systems shall not be integral to the
internal circuitry of the fire protective signaling systems, and;

2. Equipment and systems shall be served by a power supply or circuit independent


of the power supply or circuit necessary for the function of the fire protective signaling
systems, and;

3. Equipment and systems shall be interconnected to the fire protective signaling


systems by relays or switching devices which will provide electrical isolation from the
system or device to prevent interference or interruption of the normal or intended
operation of the fire protective signaling systems.

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.

3. Written sequence of operation describing, in detail, what is to occur upon


activation of a system or device and how the system or device interfaces with other
systems. Included in this written sequence of operation shall be all other information
necessary to determine the operation which would be required for the type of occupancy.

4. Written test procedures giving a step-by-step explanation of the methods to be


used for testing the system or devices.

D. Installation: Fire protective signaling systems shall be installed in accordance


with the approved plans.
E. Power Supply: Every fire protective signaling system shall be supplied with
electrical power in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).

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:

Exposed conductors or cables shall not be permitted.

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.

2. Smoke detectors shall be installed in occupancies containing sleeping areas. The


number and location of detectors shall be in accordance with Chapter 9 of the L.A.M.C.
(Building Code).

3. Fixed temperature elements of heat-activated detectors installed in dwelling units


shall not have a temperature rating in excess of 140° F.

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:

“ALARM SILENCING SWITCH SHALL ONLY BE OPERATED WITH


PERMISSION OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.”

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.

K. Trouble Signal: Every electrical system shall be provided with an audio/visual,


trouble-indicating device that will be activated when the system detects a supervised
malfunction.

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.

L. Supervision: Manual and automatic alarm initiation devices shall be installed on


supervised circuits. Circuit wiring shall be supervised to the principal point of
annunciation. The principal point of annunciation shall be an accessible location
designated by the Chief.

M. Annunciation: Fire protective signaling systems shall be divided into zones to


assist in determination of the fire location. The annunciation of all zones and device
identification shall be on electrically supervised circuits to the principal point of
annunciation.

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.

2. Each floor of a building shall be considered as a separate zone.

3. Each section of floor of a building that is separated by area separation walls or by


horizontal exits shall be considered as a separate zone.
4. Annunciation shall be further divided into zones wherever otherwise deemed
necessary by the Chief.

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.

SEC. 57.122.04. TESTING.

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.

SEC. 57.122.05. OPERATING AND TEST PROCEDURES.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

A. Approved written operating instructions and test procedures shall be located at


the control panel giving a step-by-step explanation of the methods to be used for
operating and testing fire protective signaling systems.

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.

SEC. 57.122.06. EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER.

An approved permanent sign which reads “LOCAL ALARM ONLY – CALL FIRE
DEPARTMENT” shall be installed by each manual pull station and annunciator panel.

SEC. 57.122.07. LOCATION OF COMPONENT EQUIPMENT.

Manual pull stations and annunciator panels shall be located as follows:

A. Manual Pull Stations:

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.

B. Annunciator Panels: Annunciator panels shall be installed in locations where


personnel are normally in attendance during the operation of the occupancy. These
devices shall not be installed in closets or storage rooms, nor in other isolated areas.

EXCEPTION:

In new high-rise buildings, annunciator panels shall be located in the building control
station which may not necessarily be occupied.

SEC. 57.122.08. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS BY


OCCUPANCY.

The following occupancies shall be equipped with an approved fire alarm system.

A. Group D Occupancies:

1. Every building or structure housing more than 6 guests in a Group D, Division 3


Occupancy shall have installed an automatic fire alarm system. A manual pull station
fire alarm system shall also be provided in accordance with this division.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. When an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed, a separate fire alarm


system, as specified in Section 57.122.08, A-3, need not be installed; provided the
sprinkler system has audible signaling devices for the alerting of staff or attendants which
will actuate upon operation of the sprinkler system, and an approved manual pull station
is installed.

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.

2. 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.

4. Every new or existing Group D Occupancy or building which provides 24-hour


care for six or fewer persons shall have approved and listed smoke detectors installed in
every sleeping area, and in corridors or passageways serving sleeping areas. An
additional detector shall be mounted on the ceiling directly above any interior stairway.

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:

Occupancies or buildings which are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler


system throughout.

B. Group E Occupancies:

1. General: Every school building regardless of occupancy classification shall be


provided with a dependable method of sounding an alarm of fire in accordance with the
provisions for a local alarm.

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.

2. Types of Alarm Methods: A dependable method of sounding an alarm of fire as


required by this section shall be any one of the following:

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

(2) An electrically supervised two-way communication system providing


communication between all rooms (except closets, utility rooms, equipment rooms,
supply rooms and similar accessory or auxiliary rooms or areas), and the main
administrative office or a centralized location on the premises.

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.

2. When approved by the Chief, an existing two-way voice communication system


otherwise conforming to Section 57.122.08, B.2.a.(2) need not be electrically supervised,
provided each room or area used or occupied by students has at least one direct means of
egress to the exterior.

The main administrative office or centralized location shall be constantly supervised


by qualified adult personnel under conditions approved by the Chief. Manual means for
sounding a local alarm shall be provided in the main administrative office or centralized
location. The Chief may revoke the permissive use authorized by Section 57.120.08
B.2.a.(2) at any time that the supervisory requirements are not in accordance with the
conditions of approval, or at any time that the communication system is found to be
improperly maintained or inoperative.
b. An approved and listed automatic fire detection system installed throughout the
building. Such system shall be of the local fire alarm type for alerting occupants.
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. Detection devices shall
be of any approved type.

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.

Upon receipt of the pre-signal alarm, an immediate investigation shall be


commenced. If the alarm is not verified as a false alarm and the system reset, a local
alarm shall override the cutoff switch after not more than two minutes of original cutoff
switch activation (see Section 57.122.08, B-4 relating to annunciation).

When the pre-signal alarm is transmitted to a centralized location on the premises


rather than to a centralized location in each building, the system shall be arranged to
transmit a signal which indicates either in the signal, or by approved visual means, the
building from which the signal was initiated See Section 57.122.08, B-4 relating to
annunciation).

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.

3. Uniform Fire Alarm Signal:

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:

(1) An intermittent sound signal shall be given by repeated successive short


intermittent signals for a full period of 10 seconds, to be immediately followed by an
intermission period of silence of five full seconds before the signal is repeated.

(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.

4. Annunciation: When deemed necessary by the Chief, identification or


annunciation of the location where the fire alarm signal has been initiated, or the location
where interruption of the system has caused the sounding of a trouble signal, shall be
provided in the main administrative office or at a centralized location. The system shall
be arranged to transmit a signal which indicates either in the signal or by approved visual
means, the building, floor, area, or section from which the signal was initiated.

5. Additions: All additions or alterations to any existing fire alarm system shall
conform to the provisions of this Section.

C. Group I Occupancies:

1. Group I, Division 1 Occupancies shall be provided with an approved fire alarm


system containing manual pull stations for the alerting of staff and attendants only. This
system shall have approved audible sounding devices so located that all members of the
staff and all attendants may readily hear the alarm.

The arrangement, location, and type of signaling and initiating devices shall conform
to the provisions of this division for facilities housing nonambulatory persons.

2. Group I, Division 2 Occupancies shall be provided with an approved local alarm


system containing manual pull stations for the alerting of occupants. The arrangement,
location, and type of signaling and initiating devices shall conform to the provisions of
this division.

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.

3. Group I, Division 3 Occupancies housing mental hospitals or mental sanitariums


shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system for the alerting of staff and
attendants. Systems for the alerting of staff and attendants shall have approved audible
sounding devices so located that all members of the staff and all attendants may readily
hear the alarm. The arrangement, location, and type of signaling and initiating devices
shall conform to the provisions of this division.

4. Every new or existing Group I, Division IA and 2A occupancies shall have


installed in every sleeping area, and every corridor or passageway serving sleeping areas,
approved and listed smoke detectors. An additional detector shall be mounted on the
ceiling directly above any interior stairway.

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:

Occupancies or buildings which are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler


system.

D. Group R Occupancies:

1. An approved automatic or manually activated local fire alarm system shall be


provided for:

a. Every apartment house three or more stories in height or containing 16 or more


dwelling units.

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.

3. Automatic Sprinkler Systems: Automatic sprinkler systems installed in Group R,


Division 1 Occupancies shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected
to the required fire alarm system. Upon activation the flow indicator will cause the fire
alarm system to sound an audible signal throughout the premises.

E. New High-Rise Buildings:

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.

SEC. 57.122.09. MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT.

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.

57.138.02 Permits Required.

57.138.03 Notification.

57.138.04 Access Aisles and Operating Clearances.

57.138.05 Security.

57.138.06 Collision Barriers.

57.138.07 Maintenance of Sprinkler Heads.

57.138.08 Extra Sprinkler Heads.

57.138.09 Sprinkler Piping.

57.138.10 Hangers.

57.138.11 Standpipe Hose Outlets, Standpipe Hose and Cabinets.

57.138.12 Clear Space below Sprinkler Heads.

57.138.13 Signs.

SEC. 57.138.01. SCOPE.

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.

SEC. 57.138.02. PERMITS REQUIRED.

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).

SEC. 57.138.03. NOTIFICATION.


The person in charge of any automatic sprinkler or standpipe system shall
immediately notify the Department any time such system is inoperable or taken out of
service. The Department shall also be notified when such system is restored to service.

SEC. 57.138.04. ACCESS AISLES AND OPERATING CLEARANCES.

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.

B. A minimum operating clearance of 18 inches shall be provided around automatic


sprinkler and standpipe control valves and Fire Department inlet connections.

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.

SEC. 57.138.05. SECURITY.

(Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.)

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.

SEC. 57.138.06. COLLISION BARRIERS.

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.

SEC. 57.138.07. MAINTENANCE OF SPRINKLER HEADS.

A. Sprinkler heads shall be replaced if painted, corroded, damaged, or otherwise


determined to be ineffective.
B. Sprinkler heads shall not be used to hang or support anything from them.

C. Sprinkler heads which are in a location where they may be damaged shall be
protected with approved sprinkler guards.

D. Sprinkler heads located in spray rooms, spray booths, spray tunnels, or in


spraying areas shall be clean and protected from overspray residue. Polyethylene or
cellophane bags having a thickness of .003 inch or less or paper bags of a similar
thickness may be used to protect heads from overspray. Such bags shall be replaced
periodically to prevent the excessive buildup of overspray.

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.

SEC. 57.138.08. EXTRA SPRINKLER HEADS.

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.)

SEC. 57.138.09. SPRINKLER PIPING.


Sprinkler piping shall not be used to support ladders, stock, ropes, guy wires, electrical
wires, extension cords, decorative material, or any other type of material.

SEC. 57.138.10. HANGERS.

Hangers used for the support of sprinkler piping shall not be used to support anything
else. Hangers shall be maintained in good repair.

SEC. 57.138.11. STANDPIPE HOSE OUTLETS, STANDPIPE HOSE AND


CABINETS.

(Title and Section amended by Ord. No. 167,326, Eff. 11/16/91.)

A. Standpipe hose outlets shall be provided and installed as required by Chapter 9


of the L.A.M.C. (Plumbing Code). Standpipe hose outlets shall be subject to testing and
approval by the Chief and any modification granted thereto shall be subject to Fire
Department concurrence.

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:

1. Hose shall be racked in an approved manner.

2. Hose shall be 100 feet in length and in good condition.

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.

SEC. 57.138.12. CLEAR SPACE BELOW SPRINKLER HEADS.

A minimum of 18 inches of clearance shall be provided between ceiling sprinkler


heads and the top of storage.

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.)

C. Signs stating “SPRINKLER SHUTOFF” showing the location of sprinkler


shutoff valves shall be provided on doors of rooms or closets that contain sprinkler
shutoff valves and at any other locations required by the Chief. The size of letters on the
sign shall be approved by the Chief and on a contrasting background. Directional signs
shall include an arrow indicating the direction of travel to sprinkler shutoff valves.

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.

57.140.03 Portable Fire Extinguishers – Prohibited.

57.140.04 Classification of Portable Fire Extinguishers.

57.140.05 Classification of Hazards.

57.140.06 Certificate of Fitness Required.

57.140.07 Yearly Service.

57.140.09 General Requirements.

57.140.10 Portable Fire Extinguisher Size and Placement.

57.140.11 In Lieu Use of Small Hose.

57.140.12 Tank Vehicles.

57.140.13 Protection Against Freezing.

57.140.14 Public or Private Heliports.

57.140.15 Portable Fire Extinguishers for Assembly Occupancies.

57.140.16 Portable Fire Extinguishers for Residential Occupancies.

57.140.17 Portable Fire Extinguishers for Institutional Occupancies.

57.140.20 Recharge of Portable Fire Extinguishers.

57.140.21 Recharge Tags.

57.140.22 Sealing of Portable Fire Extinguishers.

57.140.23 Record of Hydrostatic Test.

57.140.24 Hydrostatic Test.

SEC. 57.140.01. SCOPE.


The provisions of this division shall regulate the installation, servicing, maintenance,
testing, and use of all portable fire extinguishers. Unless otherwise specifically provided
in this division, the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 1 and Title 19, C.A.C., shall
apply. This division does not apply to automatic fire extinguishing systems.

SEC. 57.140.03. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS – PROHIBITED.

No person, firm, company, corporation, or association shall use, install, allow to


remain installed, sell, offer for sale, or give away any portable fire extinguisher that
employs as an agent for extinguishing fire any carbon tetrachloride, chlorobromomethane
methyl bromide, or any other material which has a level of vapor toxicity equal to or
greater than any of these materials.

SEC. 57.140.04. CLASSIFICATION OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

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.

SEC. 57.140.05. CLASSIFICATION OF HAZARDS.

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.

SEC. 57.140.06. CERTIFICATE OF FITNESS REQUIRED.

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.

B. In any place of business a person may recharge portable fire extinguishers


without being certified provided that the recharging operations are directly supervised by
a person having a valid Certificate of Fitness as required by Division 6 of this Article.

SEC. 57.140.07. YEARLY SERVICE.

A. Every required pressurized (stored-pressure) portable fire extinguisher shall be


inspected, emptied, and serviced yearly or immediately after use, whichever occurs first.

EXCEPTIONS:

1. Carbon dioxide extinguishers need not be recharged unless there is a loss of


weight of 10 percent or more of the rated capacity stamped on the extinguisher.

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.

3. Factory sealed disposable (nonrefillable) extinguisher cylinders shall be replaced


when the total loss of weight is one-fourth ounce or more of the rated capacity as shown
on the cylinder. Such extinguishers shall not be recharged.

B. All other types of required portable fire extinguishers shall be inspected and/or
serviced yearly or immediately after use, whichever occurs first.
EXCEPTION:

Factory sealed disposable (nonrefillable) extinguishers shall not be recharged.

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.

SEC. 57.140.09. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

A. Every building, structure, or premises, except for dwellings, shall be provided


with the number, size, and type of portable fire extinguishers as determined by the Chief,
based upon the hazard to be protected.

B. Portable fire extinguishers shall be maintained in a fully charged and operable


condition and kept in their approved locations when not in use.

C. Portable fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located where they will be


readily accessible and immediately available at all times. When it is not practical to
install extinguishers in a plainly visible location, signs or other approved identification
shall be provided to indicate the location.

D. Portable fire extinguishers shall be installed on hangers, in approved brackets, or


set in cabinets unless the extinguishers are of the wheeled type.

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.

F. Portable fire extinguishers should not be located where ambient temperatures


exceed 120°F. unless otherwise noted on the nameplate of the extinguisher.

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.

A. Class A Hazard: Where the flammable or combustible materials present a hazard


of Class A fires there shall be an approved Class A portable fire extinguisher within 75
feet of every portion of the building, structure, or premises in accordance with Table 140-
A.

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.

B. Class B Hazard: In every building, structure, or premises where flammable


liquids are used, processed, produced, or stored, approved Class B portable fire
extinguishers shall be provided and located as determined by the Chief.

1. Where the flammable or combustible materials present a hazard of Class B fires


only, Class B extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with Table 140-B.

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.

** The protection requirements may be accomplished with extinguishers of higher


ratings provided the travel distance to such larger extinguishers shall not exceed 50 feet.

2. In addition, Class B extinguishers shall be located within buildings in accordance


with the following:

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.

SEC. 57.140.11. IN LIEU USE OF SMALL HOSE.

When Class A portable fire extinguishers are required by Subsection A of Section


57.140.10, small hose (one-half inch, three-quarter inch or one inch) may be used in lieu
thereof provided that the following provisions of this section are complied with:

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.”

SEC. 57.140.12. TANK VEHICLES.

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.

SEC. 57.140.14. PUBLIC OR PRIVATE HELIPORTS.

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:

Emergency helicopter landing facility.

SEC. 57.140.15. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR ASSEMBLY


OCCUPANCIES.

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.

B. In Group A, Division 1 and 2 Occupancies, one additional Class 2A portable fire


extinguisher shall be provided as follows:

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.

2. On each side of every fly gallery.

3. In basements beneath the stage or platform.

4. In every hallway or passageway leading to a dressing room.

5. In every property room, carpenter shop, or similar room.

C. At least one Class l0B:C extinguisher shall be provided as follows:

1. In each kitchen.

2. In each electrical room.

3. Adjacent to each switchboard on any stage or platform.


4. For each motion picture machine in projection rooms. Minimum combined
rating for any projection room shall be 20B:C.

SEC. 57.140.16. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR RESIDENTIAL


OCCUPANCIES.

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:

1. Single family residential occupancies.

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:

1. Storage Areas: Extinguishers having a 2A classification.

2. Kitchens: Extinguishers having a l0B:C classification.

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:

High-rise residential occupancy units which are protected by an approved automatic


sprinkler system throughout.

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.

SEC. 57.140.17. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS FOR INSTITUTIONAL


OCCUPANCIES.

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided, installed, and maintained in institutional


occupancies as follows:

A. Hospitals, sanitariums, asylums, jails, and similar occupancies:

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.

2. Additional extinguishers of suitable type shall be installed for the protection of


special hazards as designated by the Chief, which shall include:

a. Kitchens, laboratories, pharmacies, and combustible anesthetics storage areas: At


least one Class l0B:C extinguisher.

b. X-ray laboratories: At least one Class l0B:C extinguisher.

c. Operating rooms: At least one Class l0B:C extinguisher.

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:

a. Storage areas: At least one Class 2A extinguisher.

b. Kitchens: At least one Class l0B:C extinguisher.

SEC. 57.140.20. RECHARGE OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.


A. The acceptability of recharge materials to be used for the recharging of foam or
other extinguishers which are dependent upon a chemical reaction for their operation,
shall be based upon a chemical analysis as well as performance of the extinguisher.

B. If a dry chemical type extinguisher is recharged with recharge materials other


than those specified by the manufacturer, the permittee performing the recharge shall use
recharge materials that will not alter the rating of the extinguisher nor reduce the
efficiency of its operation.

SEC. 57.140.21. RECHARGE TAGS.

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:

A. Name of testing company.

B. Address of testing company.

C. License registration number of testing company.

D. Type of service performed.

E. Date service is performed.

F. Certificate of Registration number of person who performed service.

G. Signature of person who performed service.

SEC. 57.140.22. SEALING OF PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS.

A. Whenever practicable, extinguishers shall be sealed after being charged or


recharged, in such a manner that the extinguisher cannot be discharged without breaking
the seal.

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.

SEC. 57.140.23. RECORD OF HYDROSTATIC TEST.

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.

3. License registration number of the testing company.

B. The hydrostatic test record shall not be stamped or engraved on the extinguisher
shell.

EXCEPTION:

D.O.T. Cylinders.

SEC. 57.140.24. HYDROSTATIC TEST.

A. Every portable fire extinguisher required by this article shall be hydrostatically


tested in accordance with the following time intervals.
Extinguisher Type
Test Intervals (Years)

Stored Pressure Water And/Or Antifreeze


5

Wetting Agent
5

Foam
5

AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam)


5

Loaded Stream
5

Dry Chemical Stored Pressure, With Mild Steel Shells, Brazed Brass Shells, or
Aluminum Shell
12

Dry Chemical, Cartridge or Cylinder Operated, With Mild Steel Shells


12

Bromotrifluoromethane—Halon 1301
12
Bromochlorodifluoromethane—Halon 1211
12

Dry Powder, Cartridge or Cylinder Operated, With Mild Steel Shells


12

The hydrostatic test shall comply with requirements contained in Title 19, C.A.C.

B. Any portable fire extinguisher which shows evidence of corrosion or mechanical


injury or damage which could affect its operation or structural integrity shall not be
serviced, charged, or recharged unless subjected to, and qualified for use by a hydrostatic
test.

C. Any portable fire extinguisher which fails to meet the requirements of a


hydrostatic test shall be permanently removed from service.

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.

57.141.02 Permits Required.

57.141.03 Foam Extinguishing Systems.

57.141.04 Foam Water Spray Systems.

57.141.05 Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems.

57.141.06 Water Spray Systems.

57.141.07 Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems.

57.141.08 Halon Extinguishing Systems.

57.141.09 Explosion Prevention Systems.

57.141.10 Testing and Inspection of Systems.

57.141.11 Maintenance and Instruction.

57.141.12 License Required.

57.141.13 Protection of Kitchen Cooking Equipment, Hoods, and Ducts.

SEC. 57.141.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division regulate the design, construction, installation,


maintenance, servicing, testing, and use of automatic fire extinguishing systems, except
automatic sprinkler systems.

SEC. 57.141.02. PERMITS REQUIRED.

A. No person shall construct or install an automatic fire extinguishing system unless


a Permit for such installation or construction has first been granted by the Chief in
accordance with the provisions of Division 5 of this article.

B. No person shall operate, maintain, or use any automatic fire extinguishing


system until a final inspection tag of approval has been issued by the Chief in accordance
with the provisions of Division 5 of this article.
SEC. 57.141.03. FOAM EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.141.04. FOAM WATER SPRAY SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.141.05. CARBON DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.141.06. WATER SPRAY SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.141.07. DRY CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.141.08. HALON EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.

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.

SEC. 57.141.09. EXPLOSION PREVENTION SYSTEMS.

Explosion prevention systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D.


Standard No. 6 and such other provisions as may be required by the Chief.

SEC. 57.141.10. TESTING AND INSPECTION OF SYSTEMS.

A. Every system shall be subjected to an acceptance test which shall demonstrate


that the system will perform as intended. At least semi-annually, all automatic fire
extinguishing systems, including alarms, shutdowns, and other associated equipment
shall be thoroughly inspected and serviced for proper operation. This inspection shall
include determination of any changes in physical properties of the extinguishing agent
concentrate which indicate any deterioration in quality.
B. When an inspection by the Chief indicates there is substantial reason to believe
that the automatic fire extinguishing system would fail to operate, a functional and/or
discharge test shall be performed by competent personnel and witnessed by the Chief.

C. Maintenance inspection reports shall be filed with the owner or owner’s agent
and retained for five years.

D. Semi-annually, all pressurized cylinders shall be checked by pressure and/or


weighed against the required minimums. If at any time a container shows a loss in net
content weight of more than five percent, or a drop in pressure of more than 10 percent of
the original weight or pressure, it shall be refilled or replaced. The weight and pressure
of the container shall be recorded on a tag attached to the container.

SEC. 57.141.11. MAINTENANCE AND INSTRUCTION.

A. Maintenance: These systems shall be maintained in full operating condition at


all times. Any troubles or impairments shall be corrected at once by qualified personnel.

B. Instructions: Persons who may be expected to operate an automatic fire


extinguishing system manually should be properly instructed in its operation.

SEC. 57.141.12. LICENSE REQUIRED.

No person shall engage in the business of servicing or testing automatic fire


extinguishing systems without a license issued by the State Fire Marshal.

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.

SEC. 57.141.13. PROTECTION OF KITCHEN COOKING EQUIPMENT, HOODS,


AND DUCTS.

A. Commercial-type cooking equipment from which grease-laden vapors emanate


in normal cooking application and which may be a source of ignition of grease in the
hood, grease removal device, or duct shall be protected by listed and approved automatic
fire extinguishing systems.
B. Duct systems, grease removal devices, and hoods used for commercial-type
cooking equipment shall be protected by listed and approved automatic fire extinguishing
systems.

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.

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