Article7 Fire Protection

ARTICLE 7 FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION (FIRE CODE) Page 1 of 588
Los Angeles Municipal Code
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 Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone
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 Fibres
file:///C:/Users/Admin/Downloads/Article%207%20Fire%20Protection%20&%20Preven... 10/25/2013
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.
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.
8. Gas Detection Systems. (Added by Ord. No. 179,905, Eff. 6/27/08.)
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 identification 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.
Alternate Floor Warden – A responsible person, holding a valid Floor Warden

Certificate, designated on each floor of every high-rise building, prepared to assume the
Floor Warden's duties when necessary. (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
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.
Assistant Fire Safety Director – A responsible person, who is an employee of the

building owner or manager or a resident designated by the building owner, holding a
valid Fire Safety Director Certificate, prepared to assume the Fire Safety Director's duties
when necessary. (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
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.
Building Inventory Form – A form, provided by the Fire Department and completed
by the Fire Safety Director, that contains information about a building's features,
contents, systems, or any other pertinent facts that could be used by emergency
responders in mitigating an emergency incident in the building. (Added by Ord. No.
180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
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.
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 container, 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 Assistance Center – A location (Fire Control Room, Main Lobby, or a

similar location) designated by the Fire Safety Director or Assistant Fire Safety Director
where they and other selected personnel report during an emergency incident to manage
the emergency evacuation or fire drill. (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
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.
Essential Building Personnel (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.) – Personnel
employed by the building who possess special knowledge of the building and its systems
such as, but not limited to:
• Building Manager
• Building Engineer
• Security Personnel
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 – See Definition of "Very High Fire Hazard Severity 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 – An employee of the owner or manager or resident of the

building and designated as the Fire Safety Director by the owner, administrator, or
manager of a high-rise building, health care facility, institution or other occupancy. The
Fire Safety Director must have a valid Fire Safety Director Certificate and be responsible
for the establishment, implementation, and maintenance of a Department approved
Emergency Plan for that occupancy, and provide training in the use of first aid, fire
equipment and building evacuation procedures which are approved by the Fire Chief.
Fire Safety Director Certificate – A written document approved by the Fire Chief
authorizing an employee/resident of a high rise building, health care facility or institution,
to be the Fire Safety Director. The Certificate is site specific and shall only apply to that
high-rise building, health care facility, institution or other occupancy. (Added by Ord.
No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
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.
Floor Warden – A responsible person, holding a valid Floor Warden Certificate,

designated on each floor of every high-rise building, and charged with the responsibility
of overseeing and ensuring the safe and complete evacuation or relocation of occupants
during an emergency or fire drill. (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
Floor Warden Certificate – A written document approved by the Fire Chief

authorizing an employee/resident of a high-rise building to be the Floor Warden. The
Certificate is site specific and shall only apply to that high-rise building. (Added by
Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.)
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 containing

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 Detection System– (Refer to LA Building Code Section 91.7102). (Added by

Ord. No. 179,905, Eff. 6/27/08.)
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 – See "Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone". (Amended by
Ord. No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
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.
Normal Working Hours – The hours between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. of any day
except Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff.
6/1/09.)
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.

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.

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 Engineer, 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 conduct 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.
Private First Responder (Added by Ord. No. 180,648, Eff. 6/1/09.) – Personnel
incorporated into the Emergency Plan, trained to handle an emergency incident by
providing direction and assistance prior to the arrival of emergency responders. All
Private First Responders must be approved by the Fire Department. EXCEPTION:
Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians are approved by the California
Emergency Medical Services Authority. Private First Responders include, but are not
limited to:
• Fire Safety Director

• Floor Warden
• Paramedic
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
• Civilian Emergency Response Team (CERT)
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
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.
Total Building Evacuation – Evacuation of all of the occupants of a building and

portions thereof during a single event to a predetermined outside safe refuge area.
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.
Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone – Any area within the City of Los Angeles that
poses a significant threat of fire from adjoining natural brush hillside areas and which is
determined by the following factors: topography, infrastructure, fire protection,
population density, types of construction, weather, existing fire codes and ordinances,
and fire history. (Added by Ord. No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
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.

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.

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.
1,000 Lbs.
8. Small Arms Ammunition
(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
240 Gal.
exempt amount of Class IA, IB, or IC Liquids
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
1,000 Lbs.
60% Nitrate Weight
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.

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.

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.

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 Financeupon
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 – (Amended by Ord. No. 178,882, Eff. 7/26/07.) The Board, with the concurrence of
the City Administrative Officer 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 these costs as fees at anytime during each fiscal year. 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 a 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 in this section, the Board shall transmit the Board order to the Mayor and to the City
Council.
Upon Council approval of the proposed fee schedule, the Board order and the Board's proposed
fee schedule shall be published in a daily newspaper in the same manner as ordinances of the
City are published pursuant to Charter Section 251. (Amended by Ord. No. 182,299, Eff.
12/19/12.)
If Council recommends that the proposed fee schedule be amended to increase or decrease any
of the fees proposed, those changes to those items shall not become operative. The fees for those
items on the proposed schedule, which have been disapproved or recommended for change, shall
not change but shall continue to apply unchanged during the ensuing fiscal year under the Board
order. However, those remaining fees not disapproved or recommended for amendment, which
are adopted by the Council, shall become effective. (Amended by Ord. No. 182,299, Eff.
12/19/12.)
The Board shall collect charges in accordance with new schedules approved as provided in this
section.
Those items to which this procedure applies include:
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 of four hours, 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, 57.05.32, and 57.10.05
of this article
36. Certificates of Fitness as provided by Section 57.06.15 of this article
37. Unified Program Facility Permit Schedule as provided by Section 57.14.10 of this
article
38. Hazardous Vegetation fees as provided by Section 57.21.07 B. and 57.21.07 C. of

this article
39. Pre-inspection fees (Added by Ord. No. 182,299, Eff. 12/19/12.)
40. Final Clearance inspection fees (Added by Ord. No. 182,299, Eff. 12/19/12.)
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 Financeis 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
Financeto 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 Financeof 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.

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.

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.
G. No person shall, without a valid Certificate of Fitness as required by this article, test or
certify any gas detection system. (Added by Ord. No. 179,905, Eff. 6/27/08.)
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.
7. Gas Detection System. (Added by Ord. No. 179,905, Eff. 6/27/08.)
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.

This division sets forth the requirements concerning the administration and regulation of the
Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans (HMRRP) and Inventory reporting requirements
pursuant to the requirements of Article 1 (commencing with Section 25501) of the California
Health and Safety Code Division 20, Chapter 6.95, and the Uniform Fire Code Hazardous
Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS)
requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 68, for businesses located in the City of Los Angeles.
SEC. 57.08.02. DEFINITIONS.

The following words or group of words, when used in this division, shall be defined as follows:
Act - Chapter 6.95, Article 1, commencing with Sections 25500 through 25520, of
Division 20 of the California Health and Safety Code, setting forth the State provisions
enacting Business Plans.
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 Engineer 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.

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.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.
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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
57.09.03 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.
57.09.12 Fees.
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.
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.

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

2,000 G.P.M. from three adjacent fire
Low Density Residential
hydrants flowing simultaneously
High Density Residential and Neighborhood 4,000 G.P.M. from four adjacent fire
Commercial hydrants flowing simultaneously
6,000 to 9,000 G.P.M. from four to six fire
Industrial and Commercial
hydrants flowing simultaneously
12,000 G.P.M. available to any block (where
local conditions indicate that consideration
High Density Industrial and Commercial
must be given to simultaneous fires, and
(Principal Business Districts or Centers)
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
(Amended by Ord. No. 169,944 Eff. 8/20/94.)
Distance Between
Type of Land Net Land Area Served Hydrants on
Type of Hydrant
Development Per Hydrant Roads and Fire
Lanes
Low Density 2 1/2" x 4" Double
*150,000 Sq. Ft. 600 Ft.
Residential Fire Hydrant
High Density
Residential & 2 1/2" x 4" Double
*100,000 Sq. Ft. 300-450 Ft.
Neighborhood Fire Hydrant
Commercial
2 ½" x 4" Double
Industrial & Fire Hydrant or 4"
*80,000 Sq. Ft. 300 Ft.
Commercial x 4" Double Fire
Hydrant
High Density
4" x 4" Double Fire
Industrial & *40,000 Sq. Ft. 300 Ft.
Hydrant
Commercial
* 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
Required ** Maximum Response Distance to

* Land Use
Fire Flow LAFD Fire Station:
Residential Housing an Engine or Truck Company
2,000 g.p.m. from
Low Density three adjacent
1-1/2 miles
Residential hydrants flowing
simultaneously
High Density 4,000 g.p.m. from
Residential and four adjacent
1-1/2 miles
Commercial hydrants flowing
Neighborhood simultaneously
*** Housing an Engine Company and Truck

Commercial Company
Engine Company Truck Company
6,000 to 9,000
Industrial and g.p.m. from four
1 mile 1-1/2 miles
Commercial hydrants flowing
simultaneously
12,000 g.p.m.
available to any
block (where
High Density local conditions
Industrial and indicate that
Commercial or consideration
3/4 mile 1 mile
Industrial (Principal must be given to
Business Districts or simultaneous
Centers) fires, an
additional 2,000
to 8,000 g.p.m.
will be required)
* 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.
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

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.

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.

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.
SEC. 57.09.12. FEES.

A. Before performing any services required by this Division, the Fire Department shall collect
fees established by the most current cost recovery schedule published by the Fire Department
and applicable thereto.
B. Fire Environmental Impact Report Research and Review Fee. The Fire Environmental
Impact Report Research and Review Fee is for research and review within the scope of Section
57.09.01. The fee includes plan research and review of a minimum of one hour of an Inspector's
research and review. The fee shall be based on the Inspector's hourly rate, with a one (1) hour
minimum.
C. Fire Department Access Plan Review Fee. The Fire Department Access Plan Review
Fee is for reviews within the scope of Section 57.09.03. The fee shall be based on the Inspector's
hourly rate, with a one (1) hour minimum.
D. Fire Department Access Field Inspection Fee. The Fire Department Access Field
Inspection Fee is for inspections within the scope of Section 57.09.03. The fee shall be based on
the Inspector's hourly rate, with a two (2) hour minimum.
E. Hydrant Plan Review Fee. The Hydrant Plan Review Fee is for reviews within the scope
of Section 57.09.06. The fee shall be based on the Inspector's hourly rate, with a one (1) hour
minimum.
F. Fire Hydrant Field Inspection and/or Test Fee. The Fire Hydrant Field Inspection
and/or Test Fee are for inspections and/or tests within the scope of Section 57.09.06. The fee
shall be based on the Inspector's hourly rate, with a two (2) hour minimum.
G. Additional Plan Review, Inspection or Re-inspection Fee. The Additional Plan

Review, Inspection or Re-inspection Fee is for additional inspections beyond the initial
inspection minimum time increments. These additional fees will be based on minimum one (1)
hour increments.
H. Expedite or Off-Hour Fees. The Expedite or Off-Hour Activities Fee applies to fire
services related to access, fire hydrants, and fire flow project where the plan review and/or
inspection is to be expedited to occur at the earliest possible time, which may include off-hour
time. Off-hour time is any time outside of normal business hours of the City. The fee shall be
based on the Inspector's Expedite/Off-Hour rate, with a four (4) hour minimum. Such fee shall
be paid to the Fire Department prior to final clearance approval by the Department.
DIVISION 10
ASBESTOS ABATEMENT
Section
57.10.01 Scope.
57.10.03 Inspections.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 $300.00, plus nine cents per square
foot of ACM abated over 1,000 square feet. (Amended by Ord. No. 181,233, Eff.
9/2/10.)
B. All other occupancies shall pay a flat rate of $300.00, plus nine cents per square
foot of ACM abated over 1,000 square feet. (Amended by Ord. No. 181,233, Eff.
9/2/10.)
SEC. 57.10.06. NOTIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE OF INFORMATION.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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
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
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
Section
57.14.01 Scope.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.
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.

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
E. A list of the unified program elements authorized at the facility.
SEC. 57.14.07. PERMITS - POSTING AND KEEPING.

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.

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.

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.
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.

(Amended by Ord. No. 181,273, Eff. 9/28/10.) 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 the Code, shall be computed
based on verifiable costs to the City and specified in the "Schedule" adopted under
Subsection C. of Section 57.14.10 of this Code.
(a) 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.
(b) Physicians, dentists, podiatrists, veterinarians or pharmacists who maintain

oxygen or nitrous oxide at their offices or places 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. Aboveground Storage Tanks Program. (Amended by Ord. No. 181,273, Eff.

9/28/10.) In addition to the establishment of an annual Permit fee for each aboveground
storage tank and the administration of Division 32 and other applicable sections 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 aboveground storage tanks and facilities.
6. State Service Charges. (Added by Ord. No. 181,273, Eff. 9/28/10.) 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]
Section
57.15.01 Scope.
57.15.03 Fees.
57.15.04 Annual Review.
SEC. 57.15.01. SCOPE.

This division sets forth the services of the Los Angeles Fire Department ("Fire Department") to
perform Fire/Life Safety Plan Review and Fire/Life Safety Inspection for certain projects as
specified below in the definitions and to collect the fees for those services, including fees for
expediting the services. The goal of these fees is to recover the Fire Department's costs in
performing the Fire/Life Safety plan review and Fire/Life Safety inspection services. The
Department of Building and Safety ("Building and Safety") is given the authority to collect the
fees for the Fire Department.

A. Fire/Life Safety Review. Review plans for new construction, addition, tenant
improvement, and change of use to the following construction projects as determined by the
Department of Building and Safety and Fire Department.
• Apartments and condominiums, with 3 or more stories, or 16 or more

dwelling units.
• Hotels, with 3 or more stories, or 20 or more guest rooms
• High rise buildings with human occupancy at 75 feet or higher, as measured
from occupied floor or occupied roof elevation above the lowest
level of Fire Department vehicle access
• Covered malls
• Buildings housing "A", "E", "I" and "H" with highly toxic materials
occupancies according to the Building Code
• Airport buildings
• Fire alarms
B. Additional Inspection and Re-inspection. Additional Fire/Life Safety Inspection and

Re-inspection for projects defined in A. above by the Department, beyond the initial field
inspection covered under Fire/Life Safety Plan Review. The additional inspection or re-
inspection may be required by the Fire Department or requested by the client, as referenced in
Section 57.15.01.
C. Expedite. A request by an applicant to the Fire Department to complete the Fire/Life

Safety Plan Review and/or Inspection for projects defined in Section 57.15.02 A. at the earliest
possible time. It may include a request for Fire Department personnel to work overtime to
complete a field inspection.
D. Off-Hour, Fire/Life Safety Plan Review and/or Inspection. A request by a client to the
Fire Department to complete a Fire/Life Safety Plan Review and/or an Inspection during off-
hours for projects defined in Section 57.15.02 A.
SEC. 57.15.03. FEES.

A. Before accepting an application for any services or any permit required by this Division,
the Fire Department shall collect the fees established by the most current cost-recovery schedule
published as provided by Section 57.04.12 C. and applicable thereto.
B. Fire/Life Safety Plan Review Fee. The Fire/Life Safety Plan Review Fee is for projects
described in Section 57.15.02 A. The fee includes plan review and up to two (2) hours of initial
field inspection. The fee shall be computed at the Inspector's hourly rate, for a minimum of three
(3) hours, or 0.111% of the project valuation, whichever is higher. The project valuation is to be
determined by Building and Safety. No additional fee shall be charged for verification of the
corrections required by the Fire Department. However, when plans are revised by the applicant
for reasons other than plan review correction and require additional time to review the plan
revisions, the Fire Department shall collect an additional fee.
C. Inspection and Re-inspection Fee. The Additional Field Inspection and Re-Inspection
Fee is for Fire/Life Safety Review projects described in Section 57.15.02 A. The fee shall be
based on the Inspector's hourly rate, with a one (1) hour minimum. The Additional Inspection
and Re-Inspection Fees are incurred beyond the initial field inspection covered under the
Fire/Life Safety Plan Review Fee. Additional fees are applicable for any additional inspections
beyond the initial field inspection or when the length of the initial inspection exceeds two (2)
hours.
D. Expedite or Off-Hour Fire/Life Safety Plan Review and/or Inspection Fee. The
Expedite or Off-Hour Fire/Life Safety Plan Review and Inspection Fee applies to projects
described in Section 57.15.02 A., where the plan review and/or inspection is to be expedited to
occur at the earliest possible time, which may include off-hour time. Off-Hour time is any time
outside of normal business hours of the City. The fee shall be based on the Inspector
Expedite/Off-Hour rate, with a minimum of four hours, and 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 to the City for the issuance of Construction Plan
Check and Inspection permits in connection with the activities of this Division. The costs shall
be the actual total costs incurred, including all applicable indirect costs, as determined by the
Board. The Board shall use said costs to develop or to amend the most current cost recovery fee
schedule, so as to recover City costs associated with the permit issuance activities of this
Division. The Board may adopt or amend the most current recovery fee schedule at any time
during the fiscal year.
Upon adoption of the fee schedule or any amendment thereto, the Board shall transmit the
Board order to the Mayor and City Council for consideration and approval.
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.)
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
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.
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
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
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.

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.

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.
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.

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.
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
VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE
(Title Amended by Ord. No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
Section
57.25.01 Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone 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 the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
57.25.22 Tampering with Established Locks, Signs, Barriers or Water Tanks.
57.25.25 Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map.
SEC. 57.25.01. VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE

ESTABLISHED.
(Title and Section Amended by Ord. No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
A. The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone is established and declared to be those districts
and areas included within the geographic boundaries depicted on the map on file with the City
Clerk in Council File 10-2468. (Amended by Ord. No. 181,719, Eff. 6/26/11.)
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 the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, the boundary
line of such zone shall be deemed to be relocated to coincide with the property boundary or
along the center line of such newly created streets that lie closest to the original boundary line
location.
C. The Fire Chief shall by regulation establish a legal description of the Very High Fire
Hazard Severity Zone. Such regulation 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 Fire Chief 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 the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. 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.

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 the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
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 smoldering substance within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
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 THE VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD

SEVERITY ZONE.
A. No person, other than those expressly exempted, shall enter into or be in the Very High
Fire Hazard Severity Zone except upon public roadways, inhabited areas or established trails and
campsites which are open to the public, when said Zone has been posted pursuant to Section
57.25.02 of this article. (Amended by Ord. No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
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 the Very High Fire Hazard Severity
Zone 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. (Amended by Ord. No.
176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
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 the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, except upon clearly established public or
private roads, without first having secured a Special Permit from the Chief. (Amended by Ord.
No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
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/her 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 Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. (Amended by Ord.
No. 176,943, Eff. 10/5/05.)
SEC. 57.25.25. VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE MAP.

The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map establishes those portions of the City of Los
Angeles determined by the State of California and defined in Section 57.02.02, as shown in the
map identified in Section 57.25.01 of this Code.
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.
57.30.06 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.

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 1 gal. 5 gal. 5 gal. 5 gal. 5 gal.
Plastic
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
660 gal. 660 gal. 660 gal. 660 gal. 660 gal.
Shipping Tank
* (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.

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.

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!
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
240 gal.
amounts of Class IA, IB, or IC liquids set forth above
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
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
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
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
Protected Storage1 Unprotected Storage

Class
of Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. Max. Max.
Liquid Gals. Height Width Quantity3 Gals. Height Width Quantity
Pile Pile Pile (Gals.) Pile Pile Pile (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

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.

WITHIN A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ROOM – WITH DISPENSING.
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
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.

IN GROUP H-1, H-2, AND H-3 OCCUPANCIES.
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).

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
Distance to
Property Distance
Maximum Distance
Line That Street, Alley
Class of Per Pile Height Between
Can Be Built or Public
Liquid (Gallons) (ft.) Piles
Upon Way
(See Note 1) (See Note 2)
(See Notes 3 (See Note 4)
and 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 Maximum Maximum

Storage Gallon Gallons
Height (Ft.) Quantity Quantity
Per Pile
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
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.
57.31.04 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.
57.31.18 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.
57.31.24 Fire Protection for Tanks.
Underground Tanks
57.31.30 Scope.
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.

The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate all atmospheric tanks
which are incorporated as an integral part of a transfer or process system used for handling or
storing hazardous substances. Such provisions provide necessary safeguards to carry out the
purpose and intent of this division. Whenever the term “tank” is used in this division, it shall
mean “atmospheric tank”. If a conflict arises between LAFD Standard No. 68 and the
provisions of this division, the more restrictive shall apply.
EXCEPTION:
The provisions of these sections shall not include structures such as clarifiers, sumps,
separators, storm drains, catch basins, lagoons, evaporation ponds, well cellars,
separation sumps, lined or unlined pits, or final interceptors in industrial waste
pretreatment systems.
The following words and phrases whenever used in this division shall be defined as follows:
Aboveground Tank – Any atmospheric tank installed on or above the surface of the
ground and used for the storage, handling, or processing of a hazardous substance.
Hazardous Substance – All of the following liquid, solid, and gaseous substances,
unless the State Department of Health Services in consultation with the State Water
Resources Control Board, determines the substance could not adversely affect the quality
of Waters of the State:
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.

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
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.

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.

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
Minimum Distance From Minimum Distance From

Property Lines Which May the Nearest Side of Any
Capacity of Tank in
Be Built Upon, Including Public Way (Street, Alley,
Gallons
the Opposite Side of a etc.) or Nearest Building, in
Public Way, in feet 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
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.
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

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
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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
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.

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.

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.

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
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
TABLE NO. 33-A

OCCUPANT LOAD AND MINIMUM EXIT REQUIREMENTS ACCORDING TO USE
OF OCCUPANCY
MINIMUM OF
TWO EXITS
OCCUPANT
ARE REQUIRED
LOAD FACTOR
USE WHERE
(SQ. FT PER
NUMBER OF
OCCUPANT)
OCCUPANTS IS
AT LEAST
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
50 7
Dance Floors
Lobbies, Foyers
Lodge Rooms
Reviewing Stands
Stadiums
4. Assembly areas, less concentrated use
Conference Rooms
Dining Rooms
Drinking Establishments
Exibit Rooms 50 15
Gymnasiums
Lounges
Stages
Trade Shows
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
6 80
Homes
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
50 on the skating
19. Skating Rinks 50 area; 15 on the
deck
20. Stores-Retail Sales
Rooms: 7 20
Basement 50 30
Ground Floor 10 50
Upper Floors
50 for the pool
21. Swimming Pools 50 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.

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
SEC. 57.33.09. EXIT STAIRWAYS.

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.
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
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.

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.
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.

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.
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.
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. Creation and Filing of Emergency Plan. Every owner, manager, operator, administrator,
and tenant of a new or existing high-rise building shall, in cooperation with the Fire Department,
establish, implement, maintain and update an Emergency Plan for the building that complies
with, but is not necessarily limited to, the following:
1. The owner shall electronically submit the Emergency Plan annually to the Fire
Department and maintain a current hard copy on the premises. Prior to each annual
submittal, the owner shall also review the Emergency Plan and as a result of that review
shall update the Emergency Plan as necessary to ensure that it is accurate and complete.
All Emergency Plan transactions shall be electronically submitted by means of a Fire
Department approved method. The updated Emergency Plan shall be submitted to the
Fire Department within ten days of its completion. If the owner determines after an
annual review, that the Emergency Plan does not require updating, the owner shall so
inform the Fire Department in writing as soon as that determination is made. This
requirement does not preclude an owner from reviewing and updating the Emergency
Plan more frequently than annually.
2. Any changes to the lists of Private First Responders, Essential Building Personnel,
or emergency contact telephone numbers shall be submitted to the Fire Department
within ten days of the date of the change.
3. The Emergency Plan shall be made available upon request to personnel of the Fire
Department. Upon any change of ownership or management of a high-rise building, the
previous owner shall provide all copies of the Emergency Plan required by this chapter to
the new owners within ten days of the change of ownership. The new owner shall, after
receiving the Emergency Plan submit any required updates within ten days.
4. Hotel Exemption. Hotels are exempt from the requirements set forth in this
Section, except that building staff and employees shall participate in the fire drills
required in this Section.
B. Fire Department Approval Required. All Emergency Plans, procedures and evacuation
signs shall be completed and submitted to the Fire Department for inspection and approval prior
to their implementation. All plans, signs, procedures and 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 Fire Department may
deny approval of any "High-Rise Life/Safety Service" which fails to meet minimum standards
set by the Fire Chief.
C. Building Inventory Form. A Building Inventory on a form provided by the Fire

Department shall be completed and submitted as part of the Emergency Plan and be subject to
approval by the Fire Department.
D. Required Designated Personnel. Each Emergency Plan shall include the following
required designated personnel:
1. Fire Safety Director. The Fire Safety Director and Assistant Fire Safety Director
shall be employees of the building owner or manager or reside on the premises or be
otherwise approved by the Fire Department.
a. The Fire Safety Director shall be responsible for the establishment,

implementation and maintenance of the Emergency Plan, the annual emergency
evacuation drills, training and all documentation required by the Emergency Plan.
b. The Fire Safety Director shall also verify that all security personnel have a
valid State certification. The Fire Safety Director and the Assistant Fire Safety
Director shall obtain and maintain a valid Fire Safety Director Certificate
approved by the Fire Department, and shall present their certificate for inspection
upon request to Fire Department personnel.
c. The Fire Safety Director shall be responsible for renewing their Certificate
at least once a year in order to maintain a valid certificate. The Assistant Fire
Safety Director shall be prepared to assume the Fire Safety Director's duties when
necessary.
d. The building owner shall be responsible for payment of the fees associated
with the issuance of the Fire Safety Director Certificate by the Fire Department as
described in Section 57.33.19 I.1.a.
2. Floor Wardens. A minimum of one Floor Warden per floor shall be designated to
perform the duties required by this Section. Additional Floor Wardens shall be required
if the occupant load of a floor exceeds 500 people. The Floor Warden shall obtain and
maintain a valid Floor Warden Certificate, approved by the Fire Department, and shall
present their certificate for inspection upon request by Fire Department personnel.
Alternate Floor Wardens shall also obtain a certificate as Floor Warden and be designated
for each floor, and be prepared to assume the Floor Warden duties when necessary. In a
residential building, the Floor Warden shall be a resident on that floor or an employee of
that building owner or manager. In a non-residential building, the Floor Wardens shall be
employees on that floor. The Floor Wardens shall receive training at least once each year
in order to maintain a valid certificate. Exemptions to this regulation may be granted
only upon a written request approved by the Fire Chief. The building owner shall be
responsible for payment of the annual fee associated with the issuance of the required
number of Floor Warden Certificates by the Fire Department.
3. Private First Responders. The operational portion of the Emergency Plan shall
identify and incorporate all Private First Responders for the building.
4. Essential Building Personnel. The operational portion of the Emergency Plan

shall also identify and incorporate all Essential Building Personnel who are employees of
the owner or manager in the building.
E. Required Designated Personnel - On-Site Presence. With regard to non-residential

high-rise buildings, the Fire Safety Director or Assistant Fire Safety Director shall be present on-
site during normal business hours.
F. Emergency Response Duties of Designated Personnel.
1. The designated personnel required by 57.33.19 D. shall have, at a minimum, the

following duties:
a. The Fire Safety Director or Assistant Fire Safety Director shall:
(1) During an emergency, call 911 or designate someone to place the

call; report to the building's Emergency Assistance Center; direct
evacuation operations in the building including disabled personnel in the
designated refuge or rescue locations who have identified the need for
assistance; and report the current conditions to the Fire Department.
(2) Conduct monthly building safety inspections to identify hazards and

obstructions in the egress pathways.
(3) Develop procedures for implementation of the Emergency Plan and

direct emergency evacuations and drills.
(4) Assign Wardens for each floor, selected from the occupants on that
floor.
(5) Incorporate Private First Responders for each occupied floor if

identified by the Emergency Plan.
b. Floor Wardens shall:
(1) Know the locations of all exits leading from occupied areas of the
building and carry out the requirements in the Emergency Plan
(2) Direct emergency evacuations and drills for their respective

assigned floors in accordance with the Emergency Plan.
c. Private First Responders shall:
(1) Know the location of all exits leading from occupied areas and
carry out the requirements in the Emergency Plan.
(2) Assist the Floor Wardens in the emergency evacuations and drills in
accordance to the Emergency Plan.
d. Essential Building Personnel shall:
(1) Assist the Fire Safety Director during emergency evacuation

operations in accordance with the Emergency Plan.
(2) Assist the Fire Department and other emergency responders during
emergency operations as described in the Emergency Plan.
G. Emergency Plan - Minimum Requirements.
1. The following provisions of this section reflect minimum requirements and are not
intended to restrict owners from implementing any additional measures:
a. Each Emergency Plan shall contain a description of the procedures all

occupants should follow in an emergency evacuation or drill during the regular
business hours and non-business hours of the building. Each Emergency Plan
shall also have a procedure for total building evacuations.
b. Each Emergency Plan shall specify in detail the evacuation roles and duties
of the designated personnel, including the names of the Fire Safety Director and
Assistant Fire Safety Director, their pagers, in-house, and cellular telephone
numbers.
c. Each Emergency Plan shall require that emergency evacuation signs be

posted in elevator lobbies and adjacent to the doorway leading to the exit stairs.
The signs shall include, but not be limited to, the high-rise building's core floor
plan describing all corridors, stairways, elevator lobbies, and interior evacuation
routes for each floor.
d. The Fire Safety Director, with the approval of the Fire Department, shall
establish as part of every Emergency Plan an Emergency Assistance Center where
the Fire Safety Director or Assistant Fire Safety Director and other selected
personnel report during an emergency incident. The Fire Safety Director shall
also assign a responsible person to meet and direct the Fire Department to the
location of the emergency incident. The Emergency Assistance Center may
include a fire control room, lobby or safe refuge area outside of the building.
e. Special Needs Requirements shall be incorporated in the Emergency Plan

and shall include the current list of the names and usual floor locations of each
occupant who has voluntarily, in writing, self-identified their need for assistance
and the type of aid required to exit the building during an emergency. One or
more places of refuge or rescue shall be designated in the Emergency Plan
including a method to safely remove these occupants from the building. The
Emergency Plan shall include the appropriate number of personnel designated to
assist each of these occupants during an emergency evacuation or fire drill.
f. Occupant Instruction and Training. All high-rise building occupants shall be

instructed annually on the procedures to be followed in the event of fire,
earthquake, or other emergency and participate in the mandatory fire drill.
Documentation of the occupant instructions shall be maintained by the Fire Safety

Director and be made available for inspection by Fire Department personnel.
These instructions shall also be made available to all new occupants within 14
days of their assuming occupancy in the building.
g. Emergency Evacuation Plans, Signs, and Procedures. The proposed

emergency exit plans, procedures, and evacuation signs shall be posted after
approval by the Fire Department. Evacuation signs shall be located in every
elevator lobby above and below the ground floor, adjacent to the doorway leading
to the exit stairs, 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.
All plans, procedures, and signs shall be properly maintained.
h. Each Emergency Plan, after approval by the Fire Department, shall be filed:
(1) In the office of the high-rise building;
(2) At the security desk; and
(3) In the vicinity of the Fire Department annunciator/control panel or,

as to residential buildings, in an identifiable location approved by the Fire
Chief. The Emergency Plan shall be made readily available to the
building staff and to the designated personnel required by 57.33.19 D. at
all times.
H. Fire Drills.
1. Commercial high-rise buildings, less than 35 stories in height, are required to

conduct mandatory fire drills at least annually under the direction of the Fire Safety
Director:
a. A mandatory minimum of one fire drill shall be conducted annually on

individual floors and when practical, shall include at least five floors at a time.
b. During the annual fire drill the occupants shall proceed to the safest
stairwell and relocate to a predetermined floor or outside safe refuge area.
2. Commercial high-rise buildings, 35 or more stories in height, are required to

conduct a mandatory fire drill at least annually under the direction of the Fire Safety
Director:

individual floors, and when practical, shall include at least five floors at a time.
c. Every three years there shall be a total building evacuation fire drill, wherein
every occupant of the building proceeds to the safest stairwell and evacuates
directly to a predetermined outside safe refuge area.
3. Residential high-rise buildings are required to conduct mandatory fire drills at least
annually under the direction of the Fire Safety Director:

individual floors and when practical shall include at least five floors at a time.
4. Buildings that have stair shaft doors locked for security reasons shall include a
method in the Emergency Plan that allows for safe horizontal egress from the stair shaft
during a fire drill or emergency evacuation.
5. The Fire Safety Director of the building or their designee shall coordinate the date
of the total building evacuation drill for buildings 35 or more stories in height with the
Fire Department during normal working hours. A Fire Safety Officer shall be present to
witness the total building evacuation drill.
6. The Fire Safety Director shall maintain documentation of all fire drills on Fire
Department approved forms and make it available for inspection by the Department. Fire
drills may be scheduled in advance, with a notice posted to all tenants. All building
occupants shall participate in the fire drills and emergency evacuations.
I. Fees.
1. The building owner shall be responsible for the following fees:
a. Fire Safety Director Certificate Fee. The owner of the building shall be
responsible for paying the fee based on one Fire Safety Director Certificate Fee
per building.
b. Floor Warden Certificate Fee. The owner of the building shall be

responsible for paying the fees based on one Floor Warden Certificate Fee per
floor.
c. Total Building Evacuation Oversight Fee. The owner of the building

shall be responsible for paying the Total Building Evacuation Oversight Fee.
J. 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 57.119.05. For buildings constructed prior
to the effective date of these provisions, the initial payment shall be due on the 1st of
January following that effective date.
2. Annual Renewal. Annual Renewal of certificates and payment of fees for renewal
of those existing certificates shall be due and payable each year on the first day of
January of the calendar year and shall be submitted with the renewal application.
3. Total Building Evacuation Payment. The Total Building Evacuation Oversight

Fee shall be due and payable each year on the first day of January of the calendar year
and shall be submitted with the renewal application.
4. 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.
K. Computation.
Manner of Determining Cost. The Board, with the concurrence of the Office of the
City Administrative Officer, shall determine on a regular basis, not less frequently than
once every two years, the verifiable cost to the City for the certificate fees and the fees
for the evacuation oversight for high-rise buildings. These costs shall be the actual costs
incurred as determined by the Board. The costs shall include both direct and indirect
costs to the City. The Board shall use these costs to develop a cost recovery schedule of
applicable charges. The Board shall adopt such costs as fees at any time during each
fiscal year. The cost recovery schedule shall recover the verifiable annual costs of
administering the certificates for Fire Safety Directors and Floor Wardens, as well as the
administration of the total evacuation oversight for high-rise buildings, which shall
include the cost of collection of any fees due and owing in connection with these fees. It
shall take into consideration the number of certificates issued that are subject to the fees.
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 for approval.
L. Manner of Assessing Fees. The cost recovery schedule adopted herein shall impose a
charge per certificate and set forth the applicable charges for total evacuation oversight.
M. Violations.
1. Each person, owner, manager, tenant, or other responsible party shall be guilty of a
separate offense for each and every day during any portion of which any violation of any
provision of this Section is committed, continued or permitted by that person, and shall
be punishable as provided in the Fire Code and as set forth below.
2. In addition, any condition caused or permitted to exist in violation of any of the

provisions of this Section shall be deemed a public nuisance and may be summarily
abated as such by the City. Each day that such a condition continues shall be deemed to
be a new and separate offense.
3. Violation of the provisions of this Section, including refusal to participate in a

mandatory fire drill required by this Section, shall be a violation of this Section
punishable by at least a mandatory minimum fine of $100, up to and not to exceed
$1,000, or by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more than six (6)
months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
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.
57.38.36 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.
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.
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.
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.
Materials and Design

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.

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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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
Minimum Maximum
Required
Required Required
Separation
Separation Separation
Distance from buildings &
1/2 diameter of
adjacent property lines which may 10 feet 50 feet
gasholder
be built upon
Distance from streets, alleys, or 1 1/2 diameter of
5 feet 25 feet
public ways gasholder
1/2 diameter of
Distance from above-ground
tank or gasholder
flammable liquid storage tanks & 5 feet 25 feet
whichever is the
other similar gasholders
largest
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.
57.41.04 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.
Location of Portable Containers

57.41.31 Location Within Buildings.
57.41.32 Location Outside Building.
57.41.33 Skid Tanks.
Filling of Portable Containers

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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
57.42.04 Container Construction.
57.42.05 Design Pressure.
57.42.06 Container Capacity.
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

57.42.21 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
the design, construction, location, installation, and operation of stationary containers used for the
storage of liquid or gaseous:
2. Toxic materials;
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.
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.
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:
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.
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
Buildings1 and Adjacent
Volumetric Capacity Streets, Alleys, and Public Property Lines Which may
Be Built Upon, and the
In Gallons Ways
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
Minimum Distance
Capacity in Gallons
Between Containers
Less Than 2,000 Gallons 3 Feet

2,000 Gallons to 30,000
5 Feet
Gallons
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
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
Buildings, Streets, &

Vaporizing Capacity In
Adjacent Property Lines Storage Vessels
Gallons Per Hour
That May Be Built Upon
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.
57.43.04 Other Approvals Required.
57.43.05 Special Vessel Construction.
57.43.06 Design Pressure.
Valves and Accessories

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.
the design, construction, location, installation, and operation of special vessels used for the
storage or transportation at temperature below the ambient temperature, of liquefied:
2. Toxic materials;
more restrictive shall apply
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
57.44.09 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.
57.44.14 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
Minimum Distance From

Capacity in Gallons
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.
One portable fire extinguisher having a 20B classification shall be installed and maintained on
every cargo tank vehicle.
Every cargo tank vehicle or other vehicle used to transport liquefied flammable gas shall be
clearly identified with a warning placard designed, constructed, and affixed as specified in
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.
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.

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.
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
57.50.02 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.
57.50.10 Scrap Cellulose Nitrate Film.
57.50.11 Artificial Heating.
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 750 lbs.
Department requirements
In a film cabinet 1000 lbs.
In film, cabinets in sprinklered room
conforming to Building Department 2000 lbs.
requirements
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.
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.
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.
57.51.08 Storage.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
57.52.14 Magnesium Powder.
Titanium and Zirconium
57.52.20 Milling, Machining, and Fabrication of Titanium and Zirconium.

57.52.21 Handling of Titanium and Zirconium.
Aluminum Powder and Paste
57.52.25 Storage of Aluminum Powder and Paste.

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.
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.
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
A. Only portable fire extinguishers suitable for use on Class D fires shall be used, in
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.
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.
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
U.S. Standard Gauge of Duct

Diameter of Duct in Inches Non-Abrasive
Abrasive Materials
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.
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.
57.54.06 Grass and Weeds.
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.
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.
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 Inside Note: Exempt from limitations of this table are crops being
A Fire A Fire harvested and loose materials deposited for immediate feeding
District District or bedding of animals.
Outside A Fire-Resistive Room Or Approved Noncombustible
100 None
Covered Bin or Container. L
400 100 Within An Approved Noncombustible Bin or Covered Container. O
O
Within A Fire-Resistive Room S
2,000 1,000
No Automatic Fire Protection System. E
Within A Fire-Resistive Room
14,400 7,200
With Automatic Fire Protection System.
Within A Detached Building In An Approved Location–Exclusive
2,500 None
Use.
No single pile to exceed 72,000 c.f. separated by O
72,000 7,200 Covered B
10' aisles; 100' between groups of piles; 50' P A
72,000 None Uncovered from Type IV or V buildings: 25' from E L
unprotected openings in other buildings. N E
Non-Fire I
D
Resistive No single pile to exceed N
O
36,000 18,000 (Type IIIA, NO 25,000 c.f., separated by 8' S
R
IIIB, IV & AUTO- aisles I
P
V) MATIC FIRE D
A
Fire P. SYS- No floor to be loaded in E
C
Resistive TEM excess of one-half its rated A
72,000 36,000 K
(Type I, II load capacity, as determined R
A
& III) by the Bldg. Dept. O
G
O
Non-Fire AUTO- Not less than 3' clearance to E
M
Resistive MATIC FIRE be left between top of piles D
O
72,000 36,000 Type IIIA, P SYS- and sprinkler heads, lower R
IIIB, IV & TEM chords, beams, or girders, and B
V) 3' between piles and walls U
144,000 72,000 Fire No storage to be within 5' of I

Resistive doorways – inside or outside L
(Type I, II D
& III) I
N
G
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.
57.55.06 Vegetation.
57.55.10 Small Arms Ammunition.
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
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

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.
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.
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.
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
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.
57.56.04 Wholesale Storage.
57.56.05 Mixed Storage.
57.56.06 Prohibited Types.
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.
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.
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.
57.57.06 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.
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
E. Welding, Cutting, and Heating:
1. Welding or cutting operations within a storage facility shall be regulated in

2. Heating appliances for Storage Areas shall be regulated in accordance with Division
20 of this article.
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.
57.58.04 Storage Height.
57.58.05 Drainage.
57.58.06 Maintenance and Housekeeping.
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.
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.
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.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and located in storage areas as prescribed in
DIVISION 60
MOLTEN SOLIDS
Section
Molten Salt Baths
57.60.01 General Safety Precautions.

57.60.02 Fuel and Temperature Controls.
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.
57.60.12 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
57.61.01 Scope.
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.

57.61.12 Qualified Operator.
57.61.13 Operating Instructions.
57.61.15 Lumber Drying Kilns.
57.61.16 Caul Boxes.
57.61.17 Miscellaneous Devices.
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).
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.
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.
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

57.70.11 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

57.70.31 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.

The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the storage,
processing, use, and transportation of explosive materials.
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
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
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 taken into a garage or other
repair shop for repairs or storage.
SEC. 57.70.49. EMERGENCY ACTION.
In the event of an accident involving any explosives-laden vehicle on any public street or
highway, such safety measures shall be immediately taken by the persons in charge as will best
safeguard and warn all persons who may be endangered thereby. The Department shall be
notified as soon as possible.
SEC. 57.70.50. PACKING AND LABELING.
A. Labeling: Every container of explosive materials offered for transportation shall bear a
label which complies with L.A.F.D. Standard 25.
B. Packing:
1. Every carrier of explosive materials shall exercise reasonable care to make certain
that all materials are safely and securely packed.
2. No person shall transport, or offer for transportation, explosive materials which are
not in safe containers and securely packed.
3. With each cargo of explosive materials offered for shipment there shall be a
statement signed by the shipper, that to the best of his knowledge and belief all applicable
requirements have been complied with except that this requirement shall not apply to
cargo in the shipper’s own vehicle.
4. No explosive materials shall be offered for shipment or transported unless the

containers are securely closed or sealed, as the nature of the contents and good practices
requires.
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
57.71.01 Scope.
57.71.03 Permit Applications.
57.71.04 Permits – Granting – Special Provisions.
57.71.05 Permit Limitations.
Storage of Unstable Materials

57.71.11 Containers.
57.71.13 Static Electricity.
57.71.14 Inspection and Cleaning.
57.71.15 Gauge Glasses.
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.
SEC. 57.71.01. SCOPE.

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.
No person shall store, process, or handle any unstable material without a Permit as set forth in
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
57.72.01 Scope.
57.72.02 Definition.
57.72.03 Containers and Tanks.
57.72.04 Handling.
Storage
57.72.11 Drum and Carboy Storage.
57.72.12 Tank Storage.
57.72.13 Yard Storage.
Processing
57.72.20 Pressure Dispensing.

57.72.22 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.
SEC. 57.72.01. SCOPE.

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.
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:
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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
57.73.01 Handling of Oxidizing Materials.

57.73.02 Water-reactive Oxidizing Materials.
57.73.03 Harbor Facilities.
57.73.05 Smoking and Open Flames.
57.73.06 Prohibited Uses.
Storage of Oxidizing Materials
57.73.11 Containers.
57.73.12 Drum Storage.
57.73.13 Bag Storage.
57.73.14 Bulk Storage.
57.73.15 Floors.
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.
SEC. 57.73.01. HANDLING OF OXIDIZING MATERIALS.

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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
57.74.05 Storage, Processing, and Use Requirements.
SEC. 57.74.01. SCOPE.

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.
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.
A. Whenever toxic materials are handled or stored in quantities requiring a Permit under
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.
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

WATER-REACTIVE MATERIALS
SEC. 57.75.01. SCOPE.

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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
57.76.04 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.
SEC. 57.76.01. SCOPE.

The provisions of this division and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall regulate the storage, handling,
and use of organic peroxides. Unless otherwise specifically provided in this division, compliance
with the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 65 shall be required.
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.
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.
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.
A. Whenever organic peroxides are processed or stored in quantities requiring a Permit under
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
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
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 Degree of Reactivity Hazard For Use

Classification 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.
57.79.04 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.
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.
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.
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.
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

AIR FLOW PER UNIT-CFM
UNITS
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 80
SPRAY PAINTING
Section
Construction, Use and Maintenance of Booths, Rooms and Tunnels

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.
Exhaust Systems
57.80.20 Requirements for Exhaust Systems.

57.80.21 Air Circulation.
Ducts

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.
57.80.81 Location.
CONSTRUCTION, USE AND MAINTENANCE OF BOOTHS, ROOMS

AND TUNNELS
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.
All electrical equipment within any spray area shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 9
of the L.A.M.C. (Electrical Code).
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
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

Gauge of Duct Metal
Inches
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
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.
A. Every spray booth or spray tunnel installed in any building shall be protected by an
B. Where automatic sprinklers protect a spray booth and its exhaust duct, there shall be a
separate indicating valve, of the outside screw and yoke type, at an accessible location.
C. Approved portable fire extinguishers shall be installed near all spray areas in accordance
with Division 140 of this article.

A. Spray booths, spray tunnels or spray rooms shall be located in Group B-2 or H
occupancies.
EXCEPTION:
Spray booths and spray tunnels may be located outside in zones approved by the
LAMC (Zoning Code) and shall comply with all other requirements of this section.
B. Spray booths and spray tunnels located outside shall not be adjacent to nonrated buildings
or within ten feet of openings into buildings or within five feet of property lines.
DIVISION 81
DIP TANKS
Section
Construction, Installation, and Location
57.81.02 Location.
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.
57.81.17 Electrical.
57.81.18 Heating Dip Tank Liquids.
57.81.19 Source of Ignition.
57.81.20 Cleaning of Dip Tanks.
CONSTRUCTION, INSTALLATION, AND LOCATION
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.)
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.
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.
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.
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
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

57.82.02 Paint Transfer.
57.82.03 Tanks.
57.82.04 Cleaning and Maintenance.
57.82.05 Fire Protection and Safety Devices.
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
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.
57.83.05 Special Permit.
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.
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.
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.
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
DIVISION 84
DRYING OVENS
Section
General Installation
57.84.01 Scope.
57.84.02 Location.
57.84.06 Mounting.
Vents and Flues from Heating Systems and Oven Exhausts

57.84.11 Gauge of Metal.
57.84.12 Seams.
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

57.84.61 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.
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.
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.
Drying ovens shall be constructed of noncombustible materials throughout. Drying oven

interiors shall have smooth surfaces arranged to permit easy cleaning.
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
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.
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
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.
57.86.04 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
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
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.
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.
57.91.09 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.
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
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.

This division, other applicable divisions of this article and LAFD Standard No. 68 shall
regulate hazardous materials in natural gasoline plants and refineries.
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.
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.
SEC. 57.92.01. SCOPE.

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.
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.
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
Distance To Fill Page

LOCATION Class II and
Class I Liquids
III Liquids
From buildings, tanks,
streets, alleys, or property 25 ft. 15 ft.
lines
From open flame and sources
of ignition not a part of the 50 ft. 25 ft.
operation
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.
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.
57.93.07 Personnel.
57.93.08 Signs.
57.93.09 Drainage and Waste Disposal.
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.
No open flames, flame producing devices, or other source of ignition not necessary to the
operation of the facility shall be located, brought or permitted within 50 feet of any transfer
apparatus at a Marine Service Station. Smoking shall be permitted only in an approved location.
No person shall start the engine of a marine vessel following fueling operations until after the
engine room and other below deck spaces are thoroughly ventilated.
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.
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.
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.

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
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.
No person shall smoke or produce any open flame or other source of ignition within 25 feet of
any liquefied flammable gas dispensing apparatus.
At least two portable fire extinguishers having not less than a 20B:C classification shall be
provided at every liquefied flammable gas Bulk Distributing Station. At least two portable fire
extinguishers having not less than a 10B:C classification shall be provided at every Auto Fueling
Station dispensing liquefied flammable gas and at every Cylinder Filling Plant. One such
portable fire extinguisher shall be located within 25 feet of every dispenser.
DIVISION 95
MARINE OIL TERMINALS TANK VESSELS AND TANK
BARGES
Section
57.95.01 Scope.
57.95.02 Application.
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.
SEC. 57.95.01. SCOPE.

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.
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
Tag Closed-Cup Tester Pensky-Martens Closed-

Open-Cup Tester
(A.S.T.M.) 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
57.96.10 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
57.100.05 Drainage.
57.100.06 Flammable Covers.
57.100.07 Sweeping and Absorbing Compounds.
57.100.09 Transfer Between Tanks.

57.100.10 Use of Class I or II Liquids.
57.100.11 Empty Drums and Containers.
57.100.13 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.

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).
Every Auto Fueling Station and Public Garage shall be constructed and maintained in
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.
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.
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.

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.

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
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.
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.
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.
57.101.14 Aircraft Loading Walkways.

57.101.15 Aircraft Fuel System Maintenance.
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
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.

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
57.103.03 Yard Maintenance.
57.103.04 Woodworking Areas.
57.103.05 Smoking.
A. Height: Lumber shall be securely and compactly piled and in no case higher than 20 feet.
B. Size of Piles and Access Required: Piles of lumber shall not exceed 7,500 square feet of
ground area. Every lumber pile shall be accessible on at least one side by a driveway not less
than 15 feet in width. When the side of lesser dimension exceeds 50 feet then the pile shall be
accessible on both of the sides of greater dimension by a driveway at least 15 feet in width.
C. Fence: Permanent lumber storage shall be separated from public streets and highways by
an adequate fence acceptable to the Fire Department.
D. Location: Lumber shall not be stored within 10 feet of any building on adjacent property
or within 15 feet of an unprotected opening in any building.
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.
Smoking shall be prohibited except in specific safe locations. “NO SMOKING” signs shall be
posted throughout all buildings except in specific locations designed as safe for smoking
purposes.
A. Open Storage Areas: Portable fire extinguishers, hydrants, standpipe and hose, or other
approved firefighting equipment shall be so installed and distributed as to provide maximum
protection and shall be properly marked.
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
57.104.01 Scope.
57.104.02 Buffing Rooms and Machines.
57.104.03 Storage and Handling of Flammables.
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.

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.
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.
Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and maintained in every tire rebuilding plant as
specified by Division 140 of this article.
DIVISION 105
AUTO WRECKING YARDS, JUNK YARDS, AND WASTE
MATERIALS HANDLING PLANTS
Section
57.105.02 Storage.
Auto wrecking yards, junk yards, and waste materials handling plants, shall conform to all
other applicable requirements of this article, as well as this division.
The storage of materials, whether combustible or not, in any auto wrecking plant, junk yard, or
waste materials handling plant, shall be in accordance with Division 58 of this article for outside
storage, aisles, and Fire Department access.
EXCEPTION:
The storage of flammable fibres shall be in accordance with Division 54 of this article.
Welding and cutting operations shall be in accordance with L.A.F.D. Standard No. 51.
A. Sprinkler Systems: Handling and storage of large quantities of waste paper, rags or other
combustible materials, shall not be in a building of combustible construction unless the building
is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system and all vertical openings enclosed.
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 110
ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES
Section
57.110.01 Scope.
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.
57.110.16 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.

57.110.32 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
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.
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
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).
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.
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.
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.
57.111.05 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.
57.111.11 Space Heating Appliance Location.
57.111.12 Classroom Aisles and Seats.
57.111.13 Day Care Facility Fire Clearance Safety Inspections.
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.
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.
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.
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.
SEC. 57.111.13. DAY CARE FACILITY FIRE CLEARANCE SAFETY

INSPECTIONS.
A. As provided by Health and Safety Code Section 13235, a prospective state licensee of a
day care facility, as defined in Section 1596.750 of the 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 equal to, but not exceeding, the actual cost of the pre-inspection
services shall be charged for the pre-inspection of these facilities. Such fee shall be paid to the
Department prior to the pre-inspection by the Department. The fee shall be established in the
same manner as provided for the establishment of fees under Section 57.04.12(C) of this Code.
DIVISION 112
RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES
Section
57.112.01 Scope.
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.
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.
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.

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.
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 requiredto 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 requiredby 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 andoccupants 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
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
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
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.

No person shall use, maintain, or allow to exist any portable, fuel-burning, unvented room
heater in any residential occupancy.
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.
57.113.03 Fire Clearances.
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 of Institutional Occupancies.
SEC. 57.113.01. SCOPE.

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.
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—Thephysical 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.

When all applicable provisions of this article and the California Code of Regulations are
complied with, the Chief may, upon request, issue a Fire Clearance to appropriate licensing
agencies for any institutional occupancy governed by this article.

A valid permit from the Department is required in accordance with Division 4 of this article
when a building or portion of a building is used as an institutional occupancy.
EXCEPTION:
Group I, Division 2.2A occupancies.
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.
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.

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
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 theradiating flame, with guard
members spaced not more than two inches apart.
C. Cabinet type appliances that are not provided with an inner combustion chamber andan 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 OF

INSTITUTIONAL OCCUPANCIES.
(Title and Section Amended by Ord. No. 182,299, Eff 12/19/12.)
A. As provided by the Health and Safety Code Section 13235, a prospective state licensee of
a community care facility, as defined in Section 1502 of the State Health and Safety Code, or of
a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in 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 equal to, but not exceeding, the actual cost of the
pre-inspection services shall be charged for the pre-inspection of these facilities. Such fee shall
be paid to the Department prior to the pre-inspection by the Department. The fee shall be
established in the same manner as provided for the establishment of fees under Section 57.04.12
(C) of this Code.
B. The Department shall charge and collect a fee for the 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 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.
57.115.02 Permits.
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.
57.115.12 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.
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.
SEC. 57.115.02. PERMITS.

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).
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.

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
Minimum Width of Each Exit Opening – in

Minimum Feet
Occupant Load
Number of Exits
Tent Membrane Structure
20 to 49 2 3 3
50 to 299 2 4 4
300 to 599 3 5
600 to 999 4 6
Occupant Load Over
1000 to 1999 5 8 299 Not Permitted
1 Additional Foot For
2000 And More 6
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.

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.
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

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.
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
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
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

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.
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.
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.
57.119.03 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.

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.

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.

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
SEC. 57.119.04. POWER OF REVOCATION AND SUSPENSION.

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.

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 City
Administrative Officer, 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.
The costs to be considered and recovered shall be personnel salary including all
applicable indirect 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. 180,401, Eff. 1/9/09.)
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. (Amended by Ord. No. 180,401, Eff. 1/9/09.) 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. No fee shall be charged for inspection of high rise buildings used primarily for
residential purposes (Group R Occupancies), except for hotels, dormitories, residential
apartments, and condominiums.
2. As to hotels, dormitories, residential apartments, and condominiums, 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.

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.
57.121.04 Construction and Installation.
57.121.06 Operating Conditions.

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.
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.
No person shall maintain, operate, conduct, or contract with others to engage in the operation
of any central station signaling system unless a valid Permit as required by Division 4 of this
article has been issued and the operation of such system is done in compliance with the
provisions of this division.
SEC. 57.121.04. CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION.
The construction and installation of every central station signaling system shall comply with
the provisions of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 67.
A. The installing company shall notify the Chief in writing whenever a central station
signaling system has been installed in buildings or structures equipped with a fire protection
system.
B. (Amended by Ord. No. 170,954, Eff. 4/16/96.) The central station shall immediately
retransmit any fire alarm signals to the Fire Department.
EXCEPTION:
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.
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.
57.122.04 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.
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.
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.

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
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

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.
DIVISION 138
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER AND STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
Section
57.138.01 Scope.
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.
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).
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.
SEC. 57.138.05. SECURITY.

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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
57.140.10 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.
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
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
Minimum Extinguisher Maximum Distance in

Type of Hazard
Rating 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
*Minimum Extinguisher **Maximum Distance in

Type of Hazard
Rating 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
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.
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
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.
Test
Extinguisher Type 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
12
Brass Shells, or Aluminum Shell
Dry Chemical, Cartridge or Cylinder Operated, With Mild Steel
12
Shells
Bromotrifluoromethane—Halon 1301 12
Bromochlorodifluoromethane—Halon 1211 12
Dry Powder, Cartridge or Cylinder Operated, With Mild Steel
12
Shells
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.
57.141.03 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.
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
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
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
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
SEC. 57.141.09. EXPLOSION PREVENTION SYSTEMS.
Explosion prevention systems shall comply with the requirements of L.A.F.D. Standard No. 6
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.
Disclaimer:
This Code of Ordinances and/or any other documents that appear on this site may not reflect the most current legislation adopted by
the Municipality. American Legal Publishing Corporation provides these documents for informational purposes only. These
documents should not be relied upon as the definitive authority for local legislation. Additionally, the formatting and pagination of the
posted documents varies from the formatting and pagination of the official copy. The official printed copy of a Code of Ordinances
should be consulted prior to any action being taken.
For further information regarding the official version of any of this Code of Ordinances or other documents posted on this site,
please contact the Municipality directly or contact American Legal Publishing toll-free at 800-445-5588.
© 2013 American Legal Publishing Corporation

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ARTICLE 7 FIRE PROTECTION AND PREVENTION (FIRE CODE) Page 1 of 588

Los Angeles Municipal Code

57.01.18 Authority to Issue Parking Notices.

Fire Code Revision

57.01.40 Review of Article.

57.01.50 Badge Adopted.

SEC. 57.01.01. TITLE.

SEC. 57.01.02. PURPOSE.

SEC. 57.01.03. EXISTING CONDITIONS.

SEC. 57.01.04. VALIDITY OF OTHER LAWS.

SEC. 57.01.05. OTHER LIMITATIONS.

SEC. 57.01.06. VALIDITY OF THIS ARTICLE.

SEC. 57.01.07. APPLICABILITY.

SEC. 57.01.09. NONRESPONSIBILITY OF CITY.

SEC. 57.01.10. INTERPRETATION OF SECTION NUMBERS.

SEC. 57.01.11. AUTHORITY TO RECOVER INVESTIGATIVE COSTS.

SEC. 57.01.18. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE PARKING NOTICES.

SEC. 57.01.19. AUTHORITY TO RECOVER COSTS FOR ABATEMENT OF

SEC. 57.01.20. AUTHORITY AT EMERGENCY.

SEC. 57.01.21. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH BARRIERS.

SEC. 57.01.22. AUTHORITY TO MAKE INSPECTIONS.

1. Occupancy access points.

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

SEC. 57.01.23. AUTHORITY TO INVESTIGATE FIRES OR OTHER

SEC. 57.01.24. AUTHORITY TO INSPECT.

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

SEC. 57.01.25. AUTHORITY TO TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS.

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

SEC. 57.01.26. AUTHORITY OF PEACE OFFICERS.

SEC. 57.01.27. AUTHORITY TO REQUEST POLICE ASSISTANCE.

SEC. 57.01.28. AUTHORITY TO GRANT VARIANCES AND WAIVERS.

SEC. 57.01.29. AUTHORITY TO APPROVE ALTERNATE MATERIALS OR

B. The approval, by the Department, of plans and specifications required by Division 5 of

SEC. 57.01.30. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE TESTS.

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

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

SEC. 57.01.32. AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE FIRE SAFETY OFFICERS.

a. Four-hour minimum work day. (Amended by Ord. No 168,304, Eff.

b. Time and one-half after eight hours.

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

SEC. 57.01.33. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE COPIES OF EDUCATIONAL FILMS

SEC. 57.01.34. AUTHORITY OF CHIEF TO MAKE RULES.

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

1. Fire Department communication systems.

2. Building communication systems.

4. Heliports and emergency helicopter landing facilities.

5. Emergency power systems.

7. Private fire hydrants.

9. Fire protective signaling systems.

11. Refrigerant discharge systems.

12. Smoke detectors.

13. Emergency smoke control systems.

14. Automatic sprinkler systems.

15. Standpipe systems.

16. Gas detection systems.

1. Central station signaling systems.

2. Fire protective signaling systems.

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

5. Portable fire extinguishers.

6. Automatic fire extinguishing systems except automatic sprinkler systems as set

8. Gas Detection Systems. (Added by Ord. No. 179,905, Eff. 6/27/08.)

SEC. 57.01.36. AUTHORITY TO CONDEMN.

SEC. 57.01.37. AUTHORITY TO ISSUE PASSES AND CREDENTIALS.

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