Subchapter 5.04 — Building and Construction Regulations

(a) The provisions of this subchapter shall hereafter apply to the construction, alteration, moving, repair and use or maintenance of any building or structure, site, and the equipment therein, within the Town of Colma, and shall be known as the “Colma Building Codes.”

(b) The Colma Building Codes shall be the primary source of regulations for the
construction, addition to, alteration, repairs, relocations, or reconstruction of any
building or any portion thereof including any electrical, mechanical, gas, plumbing, or
fire protection equipment installed on any property or used on or within any building,
and for the maintenance of existing buildings. It shall be unlawful for any person to
perform any of the above [History: formerly § 5.401; ORD. 214, 7/13/77; ORD. 274,
9/17/81; ORD. 407,12/13/89; ORD. 422, 3/13/91; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638,
12/14/05; ORD 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

In the event of any conflict between the Colma Building Codes and any law, rule or regulation of the State of California, that requirement which establishes the higher standard of safety shall govern. [History: formerly § 5.402; ORD. 214, 7/13/77; ORD. 274, 9/17/81; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The term “Colma Building Codes” means the collection of laws and regulations described in this subchapter, while the term, “Colma Building Code,” refers to the particular code adopted by section 5.04.050 of this subchapter. [History: formerly § 5.403; ORD. 214, 7/13/77; ORD. 274, 9/17/81; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Building Code, contained in Part 2 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which incorporates and amends the 2024 Edition of the International Building Code as published by the International Code Council, together with Chapter 1, and with the changes, additions, and deletions set forth in the following section, is hereby adopted by reference as the Colma Building Code. [History: formerly §

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-1

5.405; ORD. 214, 7/13/77; ORD. 274, 9/17/81; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The following provisions of the California Building Code are hereby amended as follows:

(a) Section1.11.2.1Amended.

Item 1 of Section 1.11.2.1 of Chapter 1, Division I is amended to state as follows: “The Town of Colma specifically delegates the enforcement of building standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal, and published in the Building Standards Code relating to fire and panic safety and other regulations of the State Fire Marshal, as they relate to Group R-3 Occupancies (one and two family dwellings) to the Building Official of Town of Colma.”

(b) Section101.1Amended.

Section 101.1 of Chapter 1, Division II is amended to state as follows: “These regulations shall be known as the Colma Building Code, hereinafter referred as ‘this code’.”

(c) Section103Amended.

The term “Code Compliance Agency” in Section 103 of Chapter 1, Division II, of the California Building Code, as well as all other codes adopted in this subchapter where the term appears, refers to the Building Department of the Town of Colma.

(d) Section103.2Amended.

Section 103.2 is amended to state as follows: “The Building Official shall be appointed by the City Manager.”

(e) Section105.5Amended.

Section 105.5, “Expiration,” is amended to state as follows:

“105.5 Expiration.

(a) Every permit issued by the Building Official, or his or her designee, under the
provisions of his Code shall expire by limitation and become null and void if:

(1) the building or work authorized by such permit is not
commenced within twelve (12) months from the date of
such permit;

(2) the building or work authorized by such permit is
suspended or abandoned at any time after the work is
commenced for a period of twelve (12) months.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-2

(b) For permits where work has not commenced, a renewed permit may be obtained provided that: (1) no changes have been made or will be required in the original plans and specifications for such work; (2) the expiration has not exceeded two (2) years from the original issuance date; (3) the project would not be impacted by a change in the current adopted codes, and; (4) the applicant pays a reactivation fee equal to one half the amount of the original permit fee.

(c) For permits where work had commenced and was subsequently
suspended or abandoned, a renewed permit may be obtained
provided that: (1) No changes have been made or will be
required in the original plans and specifications for such work; (2)
the expiration has not exceeded two (2) years from the original
issuance date; and (3) a fee equal to one half the amount
required for a new permit is paid, except that where construction
has progressed and has been approved to the point whereby only
a final inspection is required, a fee equal to one quarter the
amount required for a new permit shall be paid.”

(f) Section109.2Amended.

Section 109.2, “Schedule of Permit Fees,” is amended to state as follows:

“For any work on buildings or structures which requires a permit and/or plan review, fees shall be paid in accordance with Resolutions and Ordinances that are established by action of the City Council of the Town of Colma.”

(g) Section109.4Amended.

Section 109.4, “Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance,” is amended by adding thereto the following:

“That fee, for commencing work prior to permit issuance, may be equal to up to ten times the permit fee to a maximum amount of $5,000.00 as determined by the Building Official. This fee is in addition to the permit costs and any additional investigative fees.”

(h) Section110.1Amended.

Section 110.1, “General,” is amended by adding thereto the following :

“When required, Survey Stakes shall be provided prior to first inspection and maintained so they are clearly visible until after the Certificate of Occupancy has been issued.”

(i) Section1008.3Amended.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-3

Section 1008.3, “Illumination Required by an Emergency Electrical System,” is amended by adding thereto the following: “All restrooms, and paths of egress from those restrooms to an exit discharge.”

(j) AppendixBAdopted.

Appendix B, “Board of Appeals,” is adopted as part of the Colma Building Code.

(k) AppendixCAdopted.

Appendix C, “Group U—Agricultural Buildings,” is adopted as part of the Colma Building Code.

(l) AppendixHAdopted.

Appendix H, “Signs,” is adopted as part of the Colma Building Code.

(m) AppendixIAdopted.

Appendix I, “Patio Covers,” is adopted as part of the Colma Building Code.

[History: formerly § 5.406;; ORD. 274, 9/17/81; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Residential Code, contained in Part 2.5 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which incorporates and amends the 2024 Edition of the International Residential Code as published by the International Code Council, together with Chapter 1, with the following changes, additions, and deletions set forth in the following section, is adopted by reference as the Colma Residential Code. [History: formerly § 5.407; ORD. 274, 9/17/81; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The following provisions of the California Residential Code are hereby amended as follows:

(a) SectionR103Amended.

Section R103, “Code Compliance Agency,” is amended by adding thereto the following: “The term ‘Code Compliance Agency” in Section R103 of the California Residential Code, as well as all other codes adopted in this subchapter where the term appears, refers to the Building Department of the Town of Colma.’

(b) SectionR103.2Amended.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-4

Section R103.2, “Appointment,” is amended to state as follows: “The Building Official shall be appointed by the City Manager.”

(c) SectionR105.5Amended.

Section R105.5, “Expiration,” is amended to state as follows:

“105.5 Expiration.

(a) Every permit issued by the Building Official, or his or her designee, under the
provisions of this Code shall expire by limitation and become null and void if:

(1) the building or work authorized by such permit is not commenced within
twelve (12) months from the issuance date of such permit;

(2) the building or work authorized by such permit is suspended or
abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a period of
twelve (12) months.

(b) For permits where work has not commenced, a renewed permit may be obtained
provided that: (1) no changes have been made or will be required in the original
plans and specifications for such work; (2) the expiration has not exceeded two
(2) years from the original issuance date; and (3) the project would not be
impacted by a change in the current adopted codes, and; (4) the applicant pays
a reactivation fee equal to one half the amount of the original permit fee.

(c) For permits where work had commenced and was subsequently suspended or
abandoned, a renewed permit may be obtained provided that: (1) No changes
have been made or will be required in the original plans and specifications for
such work; (2) the expiration has not exceeded two (2) years from the original
issuance date; and (3) a fee equal to one half the amount required for a new
permit is paid, except that where construction has progressed and has been
approved to the point whereby only a final inspection is required, a feel equal to
one quarter the amount required for a new permit shall be paid.”

(d) SectionR108.2Amended.

Section R108.2, “Schedule of Permit Fees,” is amended to state as follows:

“For any work on buildings or structures which requires a permit and/or plan review, fees shall be paid in accordance with Resolutions and Ordinances that are established by action of the City Council of the Town of Colma.”

(e) SectionR108.6Amended.

Section R108.6, “Work Commencing Before Permit Issuance,” is amended by adding thereto the following:

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-5

“That fee, for commencing work prior to permit issuance, may be equal to up to ten times the permit fee to a maximum amount of $5,000.00 as determined by the Building Official. This fee is in addition to the permit costs and any additional investigative fees.”

(f) SectionR309.2Amended.

Section R309.2, “One- and Two-Family Dwellings automatic fire sprinkler systems,” Item 1 is amended to state as follows: “An automatic residential fire sprinkler system is not required where an addition and/or alteration to an existing residential structure does not exceed 50% of the existing floor area.”

(g) SectionR309.3.1Amended.

The second sentence in Section R309.3.1 “General” is amended to state as follows: “Partial Fire Sprinkler Systems are not allowed; all areas of the structure shall be protected in accordance with this chapter.”

(h) SectionR309.3.1.2Amended.

Section R309.3.1.2 “Sprinklers” Exception 4 is amended to state as follows: “Detached garages; carports with no habitable space above; open attached porches, unless they are located at the only egress door from the dwelling; and patio covers open on 3 sides or more.”

(i) AppendixBFAdopted.

Appendix BF, “Patio Covers,” is adopted as part of the Colma Residential Code.

(j) Appendix BO Adopted.

Appendix BO, “Existing Buildings and Structures,” is adopted as part of the Colma Residential Code.

(k) AppendixCIAdopted.

Appendix CI, “Swimming Pool Safety Act,” is adopted as part of the Colma Residential Code.

[History: formerly § 5.408; ORD. 274, 09/17/81; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Electrical Code, contained in Part 3 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which incorporates and amends the 2023 Edition of the National Electrical Code as published by the National Fire Protection Association, together with Article 89, is adopted by reference as the Colma Electrical Code. [History: formerly § 5.409; ORD. 407, 12/13/89; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20 ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-6

The 2025 Edition of the California Mechanical Code, contained in Part 4 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which incorporates and amends the 2024 Edition of the Uniform Mechanical Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, together with Chapter 1, with the following changes, additions, and deletions set forth, is adopted by reference as the Colma Mechanical Code.

(a) Appendix F, “Sizing of Venting Systems and Outdoor Combustion and Ventilation Opening Design,” is adopted as part of the Colma Mechanical Code.

[History: formerly § 5.410; ORD. 452, 5/12/93; ORD. 638, 12/14/05; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20. ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Plumbing Code, contained in Part 5 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which incorporates and amends the 2024 Edition of the Uniform Plumbing Code as published by the International Association of Plumbing and Plumbing Officials, together with Chapter 1, with the following changes, additions, and deletions, is adopted by reference as the Colma Plumbing Code.

(a) Appendix A, “Recommended Rules for Sizing the Water Supply System,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(b) Appendix B, “Explanatory Notes on Combination Waste and Vent Systems,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(c) Appendix C, “Alternate Plumbing Systems,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(d) Appendix D, “Sizing Storm Water Drainage Systems,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(e) Appendix F, “Firefighter Breathing Air Replenishment Sysytems,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(f) Appendix G, “Sizing of Vents,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(g) Appendix H, “Private Sewage Disposal Systems,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(h) Appendix I, “Installation Standards,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(i) Appendix J, “Combination of Indoor and Outdoor Combustion and Ventilation Opening Design,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

(j) Appendix K, “Potable Rainwater Catchment Systems,” is adopted as part of the Colma Plumbing Code.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-7

[History: ORD. 661, 9/12/07; ORD. 713, 10/10/12; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20, ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Energy Code, contained in Part 6 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations as published by the International Code Council, is adopted by reference as the Colma Energy Code.

[History: ORD. 661, 9/12/07; ORD. 689, 3/10/10; ORD. 713, 10/10/12; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD 804, 2/24/21; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, contained in Part 7 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations as published by the International Code Council, is adopted by reference as the Colma Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

The 2025 Edition of the California Historical Building Code, contained in Part 8 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations as published by the International Code Council, is adopted by reference as the Colma Historical Building Code.

[History: ORD. 661, 9/12/07; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Fire Code, contained in Part 9 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, which incorporates and amends the 2024 Edition of the International Fire Code as published by the International Code Council, together with Chapter 1, with the following changes, additions, and deletions, is adopted by reference as the Colma Fire Prevention Code.

(b) Chapter 1 Division II, Administration, is adopted, in its entirety, for the administration and enforcement of the provisions of the Colma Fire Prevention Code, excepting amendments as provided herein:

(1) Section103.2Amended.
Section 103.2, “Appointment,” is amended to state as follows:
“Section 103.3 Fire Code Official.

The Fire Chief of the Colma Fire Protection District shall also be
known as the Fire Code Official, or the Fire Marshal, and may
delegate certain responsibilities to a deputy Fire Code Official, and
or sworn personnel.”

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-8

(2) Section103.3Amended. Section 103.3, “Deputies,” is amended to state as follows: “Section 103.3 Fire Code Official.

The Fire Chief of the Colma Fire Protection District shall also be
known as the Fire Code Official, or the Fire Marshal, and may
delegate certain responsibilities to a deputy Fire Code Official, and
or sworn personnel.”
(3) Section105.3.3Amended.
Section 105.3.3, “Occupancy Prohibited Before Approval,” is
amended to state as follows:

“Section 105.3.3 Occupancy Prohibited Before Approval.
No final inspection by the Building Official shall be made for
occupancy of new or altered construction, as to all or any portion
of a building or structure shall be deemed complete, and no
certificate of occupancy issued, occupancy or temporary
occupancy granted until the installation of the prescribed fire
protection features and access ways have been completed and
approved by the Fire Code Official, excluding R-3 Single Family
Dwellings in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section
13146.”

(4) Section106.1Amended.
Section 106.12, “Submittals,” to state as follows:
“Section 106.2 Submittals. Construction documents shall be in
accordance with this section. When required by the Fire Code
Official, plans submitted to the Colma Building Department or
Building Official for a permit shall also be reviewed by the Fire
Code Official to determine compliance with the Colma Fire
Prevention Code. Upon review, a written report shall be returned
to the local building official listing deficiencies or compliance with
the Code.”

(5) Section113.4Amended.
Section 113.4, “Violation Penalties,” is amended to state as follows:
“Section 113.4 Violation Penalties. Persons who violate a
provision of this Code or shall fail to comply with any of the
requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do
work in violation of the approved construction documents or
directive of the Fire Code Official, or falsification of a permit or
certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $500.00 or
by imprisonment not exceeding 6 month, or both such fine and
imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice
has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.”

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-9

(6) Chapter4Adopted. Chapter 4, “Emergency Planning and Preparedness,” is adopted in its entirety. (7) Section505.1Amended. Amend the seventh (7th) sentence of Section 505.1, “Address Identification,” is amended to state as follows: “Numbers typically shall be a minimum of 4 inches in height with a minimum stroke of 1/2 inch for individual residential structures, and a minimum of 6 inches in height for commercial structures with a minimum stroke of 1 inch, or other approved sizes based on distances from roadways. In multi-tenant buildings, with rear doors, addresses shall also be posted upon those tenant space doors at the rear of the building. The numerals on the rear doors shall be 3 inches in height and 1/2 inch in stroke.”

(8) Section507.5.7Added.
Section 507.5.7, “Fire Hydrant Standards,” is added to state as follows:
“Section 507.5.7 Fire Hydrant Standards. All fire hydrants to
be installed, or replaced, shall be new, UL listed, or equivalent,
wet-barrel type having a minimum of two 2-1/2 inch and one 4-
1/2 inch outlets equipped with National Standard Threads.”

(9) Section507.5.7Added.
Section 507.5.8, “Identification of Fire Hydrants,” to state as follows:
“Section 507.5.8 Identification Of Fire Hydrants. With
respect to fire hydrants located on public streets in commercial,
residential and on private access roadways, the space in front of
the fire hydrant shall be painted red or otherwise appropriately
marked for a distance of fifteen feet (15') in either direction from
any hydrant and not less than three feet (3') on any one side. The
fifteen feet (15’) may be reduced to six (6’) feet – when approved
by the Fire Code Official. The Colma Fire Protection District shall
have the authority to require any fire hydrant location be
identified by installing a blue reflector on the street or access road
adjacent to the fire hydrant, with the specific location of the fire
hydrant to be determined by the Fire Code Official.”

(10) Section903.2Amended.
Section 903.2, “Where Required,” is amended state as follows:
“Section 903.2 Where Required. Notwithstanding the
provisions of this Code or the provisions of any other codes
applicable within the Colma Fire Protection District, an approved
automatic fire extinguishing system shall be installed in the
following:

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A. All new non-residential buildings having a total floor area of one thousand five hundred (1,500) square feet or more, or;

B. All new residential buildings, or;

C. All new buildings or structures thirty feet (30') or more in
height as defined in the California Building Code, or;

D. Buildings or structures which are three (3) stories or more,
irrespective of height, or;

E. All Group H occupancies, or;

F. All new habitable basements, regardless of floor area, or;

G. Existing residential structures which undergo any alteration
or addition, or combination thereof, within a five (5) year
period, wherein the area of alteration and/or addition, or
combination thereof, exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the
existing floor area, or;

H. Existing non-residential structures which undergo any
addition or alteration, or combination thereof, within a five
(5) year period, wherein the area of alteration and/or
addition, or combination thereof, exceeds fifty percent
(50%) of the existing floor area, or;

I. Non-residential buildings which undergo a change of use
which results in a more hazardous occupancy classification
as determined by the fire code official.

The 50% Rule Explained:
The renovation of any structure and/or when combined with any additions to the
structure, affects a gross floor area which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the
existing floor area of the structure. For the purpose of this section, when
determining the affected gross floor area of an existing structure, whenever
more than fifty percent (50%) of the wall or ceiling coverings (e.g., wallboard,
plaster, etc.) have been removed from within a room or space bounded by three
or more walls within the structure, the entire gross floor area of the room or
space shall be counted towards the total affected gross floor area of the existing
structure.
Automatic Sprinkler System Exceptions:

1. Mausoleum and columbarium structures as defined in the
Cemetery Act, State of California; and

2. Where this Code or the California Building Code, California
Code Of Regulations Title 24, Part 2 is more restrictive.”

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-11

(11) Section903.2.1Deleted.

Section 903.2.1, “Group A,” is deleted.

(12) Section903.2.2Deleted.

Section 903.2.2, “Group B,” is deleted.

(13) Section903.2.3Deleted.

Section 903.2.3, “Group F-1,” is deleted.

(14) Section903.2.4Deleted.

Section 903.2.4, “Group F-1,” is deleted.

(15) Section903.2.5Deleted.

Section 903.2.5, “Group B,” is deleted.

(16) Section903.2.6Deleted.

Section 903.2.6, “Group I,” is deleted.

(17) Section903.2.7Deleted.

Section 903.2.7, “Group M,” is deleted.

(18) Section903.2.8Deleted.

Section 903.2.8, “Group R,” is deleted.

(19) Section903.2.9Deleted.

Section 903.2.9, “Group S-1,” is deleted. (20) Section903.2.10Deleted.

Section 903.2.10, “Group S-2 Parking Garages,” is deleted.

(21) Section903.2.10.1Deleted.

Section 903.2.10.1, “Commercial Parking Garages,” is deleted.

(22) Section903.2.11.7Added.

Section 903.2.11.7, “Area Separation Walls,” to state the following:

“Section 903.2.11.7 Area Separation Walls. The use of area separation walls may be used for area increases in accordance with the California Building Code, but shall not be used to negate the requirements for an automatic fire extinguishing system as required by this section.”

(23) Section903.3.1.3.1Added. Section 903.3.1.3.1, “Installation Requirements,” is added to state the following: “Section 903.3.1.3.1 Installation Requirements. In addition to the requirements of NFPA 13D the following policy shall be followed:

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-12

PLAN REVIEW –

1. Applicant shall provide a copy of a recent (within past 6
months) water flow test report. The test report shall be
supplied by the water purveyor and printed on the water
purveyor’s letterhead.

2. A two-head calculation is required for occupancies up to
3600 sq ft. When a single family residence cannot meet
California minimum water flow or access requirements,
additional water flow and/or sprinkler head calculations
may be required.

INSTALLATION –

1. Approved back flow assemblies shall be installed in
accordance with water department requirements.

2. Water meter size shall be not less than 1 inch, with equal
size service unless the Colma Fire Protection District makes
exceptions.

3. When a hanger is being supported by a composite wood
truss, pipe hangers shall have backing nuts on all threaded
rods.

4. Approved annunciation devices shall be provided at
locations designated by the Colma Fire Protection District,
both exterior and interior. Approved interior mini horn
devices and approved exterior audible and visual devices
shall activate upon fire sprinkler water flow alarm. All
notification appliances shall receive primary power from
the kitchen refrigerator circuit.

5. The inspector’s test valve shall be provided at the far
remote-side of the system away from the riser and be
clearly identified.

6. The location of the riser shall be in accordance with the
Colma Fire Protection District requirements.

7. Attic (pilot) heads, for fire detection, shall be installed at
attic access points with greater than 30 inches of vertical
space. If the attic has room for storage, or if mechanical
equipment is in the attic, fire sprinkler heads shall be
installed throughout the entire attic space.

8. Fire sprinkler system main drains and Inspector’s Test
drains, shall be clearly identified, and shall either discharge

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-13

into a Sanitary Sewer or a landscape area large enough to contain the system contents, in accordance with provisions of Municipal Regional Stormwater Permit.

INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS -

Inspections by the Colma Fire Protection District shall consist of
not less than:

1. A rough installation inspection and hydrostatic test, prior
to concealing any components.

2. The hydrostatic test shall be performed at 200 psi for a
period of not less than 2 hours.

3. Underground piping system shall be flushed prior to
connecting to the sprinkler riser.

4. Where concealed sprinkler heads are used a pre-final
inspection shall be performed prior to the installation of
the concealing plates to verify no presence of
contaminants on the heads.

5. A final inspection.”

(25) Section903.3.10Amended.
Replace Section 903.3.10,“Floor Control Valves,” with the following:
“Section 903.3.10 Floor Control Valves. Approved
supervised indicating control valves and water-flow switches shall
be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in
multi-level buildings.

EXCEPTION: Within individual dwelling units.”

(26) Section903.4.3Amended. Section 903.4.3,“Alarms,” is amended to state as follows: “Section 903.4.3 Alarms. An approved audible and visual sprinkler flow alarm shall be provided on the exterior of the building in an approved location. An audible and visual sprinkler flow alarm shall be provided in the interior of the building in a normally occupied location. Multi-tenant buildings shall be provided with an audible and visual sprinkler flow alarm and a manual pull station within each separate tenant space, at an approved location. Multi-story buildings, regardless of tenancy, shall be provided with an audible and visual sprinkler flow alarm at each floor level, in an approved location. All bathrooms and walk-in coolers/freezers shall be provided with visual notification

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-14

appliances where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall activate the building fire alarm system.”

(27) Section907.2Amended. Sections 907.2, “Where Required—New Buildings and Structures,” is amended to state as follows: “Section 907.2 WHERE REQUIRED—NEW BUILDINGS AND EXISTING STRUCTURES. An approved fire alarm system shall be installed including manual fire alarm boxes at each exit in each tenant space of a multi-tenant building and at each exit stairway on every floor of a multi-story building regardless of tenancy.” (28) Section907.2.9Amended. Section 907.2.9, “Groups R-2, R-2.1 and R-2.2,” to state as follows: “Section 907.2.9 Group R-2, R-2.1 and R-2.2. Fire alarm systems with manual fire alarm boxes shall be located at each ground floor exit and on each floor’s exit stairways. Automatic smoke detection systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2, R-2.1 and R-2.2 Occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.2, 907.2.9.1 and 907.2.10.2.” (29) Section907.9Amended. Sections 907.2, “Where Required in Existing Buildings and Structures,” is amended to state as follows: “Section 907.9 Where Required in Existing Buildings and Structures. An approved fire alarm system shall be installed including manual fire alarm boxes at each exit in each tenant space of a multi-tenant building and at each exit stairway on every floor of a multi-story building regardless of tenancy.”

(30) Section1008.3.3Amended. Section 1008.3.3, “Illumination Required by an Emergency Electrical System,” Item 3.5 with the following: “All public restrooms, and paths of egress from those restrooms to an exit discharge.”

(c) The following Appendix Chapters are adopted;

(1) Appendix A, “Board of Appeals,” is adopted as part of the Colma
Fire Code.
(2) Appendix B, “Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings,” is adopted as
part of the Colma Fire Code.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-15

(3) Appendix BB, “Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings (Schools),” is adopted as part of the Colma Fire Code. (4) Appendix C, “Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution,” is adopted as part of the Colma Fire Code with the following amendments: (a) TableC102.1Amended. Section C102.1, “Minimum Number of Fire Hydrants for a Building,” Table C102.1, “Required Number and Spacing of Fire Hydrants,” Footnote C, is amended to state the following: “Where water mains are extended along streets where fire hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be provided with spacing determined by the Fire Code Official, to provide for transportation hazards.” (5) Appendix CC, “Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution (Schools),” is adopted as part of the Colma Fire Code. (6) Appendix D, “Fire Apparatus Access Roads,” is adopted as part of the Colma Fire Code. (7) Appendix F, “Hazard Ranking,” is adopted as part of the Colma Fire Code. (8) Appendix I, “Fire Protection Systems – Noncompliant Conditions,” is adopted as part of the Colma Fire Code. [History: ORD. 661, 9/12/07; ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Existing Building Code, contained in Part 10 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations as published by the International Code Council, is adopted by reference as the Colma Existing Building Code.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 2025 Edition of the California Green Building Standards Code, contained in Part 11 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, with the following changes, additions, and deletions, is adopted by reference as the Colma Green Building Standards Code.

(a) Section4.408.1Amended.

Section 4.408.1, “Construction Waste Management,” is amended to state as follows:

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-16

“All construction and demolition work within the Town of Colma shall be in compliance with sections 5.04.260 through 5.04.350 of the Colma Municipal Code.”

(b) Section4.408.2Deleted.

Section 4.408.2, “Construction Waste Management Plan,” is deleted.

(c) Section4.408.3Deleted.

Section 4.408.3, “Waste Management Company,” is deleted.

(d) Section4.408.4Deleted.

Section 4.408.4, “Waste Stream Reduction Alternative,” is deleted.

(e) Section4.408.5Deleted.

Section 4.408.5, “Documentation,” is deleted.

(f) Section5.408.1Amended.

Section 5.408.1, “Construction Waste Reduction, Disposal and Recycling,” is amended to state as follows:

Section 5.408.1, “Construction Waste Reduction, Disposal and Recycling,” is amended to state as follows:“All construction and demolition work within the Town of Colma shall be in compliance with sections 5.04.260 through 5.04.350 of the Colma Municipal Code.”

(g) Section5.408.1.1Deleted.

Section 5.408.1.1, “Construction Waste Management Plan ,” is deleted.

(h) Section5.408.1.2Deleted.

Section 5.408.1.2, “Waste Management Company,” is deleted.

(i) Section5.408.1.3Deleted.

Section 5.408.1.3, “Waste Stream Reduction Alternative,” is deleted.

(j) Section5.408.1.4Deleted.

Section 5.408.1.4, “Documentation,” is deleted.

(k) Section 5.04.290 of the Colma Municipal Code, “Diversion Requirements,” is amended in its entirety to state as follows:

“5.04.290 Diversion Requirements

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-17

The Builder shall follow the diversion requirements in the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code, as adopted by reference and amended by the Town in subdivision A of this Section 5.04.160.”

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD 804 2/24/21]

The 2025 Edition of the California Referenced Standards Code, contained in Part 12 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations as published by the International Code Council, is adopted by reference as the Colma Referenced Standards Code.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The 1997 Edition of the Uniform Housing Code as published by the International Conference of Building Officials, with the following changes, additions, and deletions, is adopted by reference as the Colma Housing Code.

(a) Section203.1.Deleted.

Section 203.1 is deleted.

(b) Section302Amended.

Section 302, “Fees,” is amended to state as follows:

“Whenever work is required to be done under the provisions of this code,
a building, plumbing, electrical or mechanical permit may be required by
the Building Official prior to commencement of the work. Fees may be
assessed pursuant to permit fee resolutions adopted by the City Council
from time to time. If abatement proceedings are initiated against a
property to gain compliance with the provisions of this code, all costs
associated with the abatement shall be paid by the property owner
pursuant to the provisions of subchapter 2.01 of the Colma Municipal
Code.”

(c) Section1001.2Amended.

Section 1001.2, “Inadequate Sanitation,” is amended by adding the following:

“16. Lack of an approved potable water supply.”

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828,
1/14/26]

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-18

The 2024 Edition of the International Property Maintenance Code as published by the International Code Council, is adopted by reference as the Colma Property Maintenance Code. [History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

The provisions of these Codes are enacted for the public health, safety, and welfare and are to be liberally construed for those purposes thereof.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD. 799, 1/8/20]

A complete set of the above referenced codes adopted in this subchapter shall be maintained in the Building Department and shall be made available for review by the public.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

Division3:HoursofConstruction

(a) The City Council finds that regulation of construction noise is necessary to protect the public health and safety, and that construction noise at early or late times of the day is a nuisance to neighboring properties.

(b) As used in this subchapter, “noise generating construction activity” means the use of any noise generating equipment or tool, including but not limited to: excavators, backhoes, post diggers, pile drivers, saws, electric screw drivers, grinders, nail guns, compressors, generators, hammers, jack hammers, power washers, paint guns, scaffolding erection, or similar noise generating equipment. “Noise generating construction activity” also includes construction material delivery, demolition activities and the servicing of tools and equipment. “Noise generating construction activity” does not include activities such as drywall finishing, painting, tile laying, carpet installation or the use of small hand tools in a fully enclosed structure with windows and doors closed.

(c) Within a radius of 500 feet from any residential unit within the Town boundaries, noise generating construction activity shall only be permitted between the following hours/days:

Monday Through Friday 8:00 AM through 7:00 PM

Saturday 9:00 AM through 5:00 PM

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-19

Sunday 12:00 PM through 5:00 PM

Noise generating construction activity is prohibited on all of the following federal
holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Memorial Day,
Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and
Christmas Day.

The Building Official, or his or her designee, may grant an exception for special
conditions when requested in writing and approved by the Building Official, or his or her
designee, prior to the start of noise generating activity. The above requirements do not
apply to emergency repair work, work for public utility and street repair, street
sweeping, garbage collection and emergency response warning systems.

(d) For projects more than 500 feet from a residential unit in the Town of Colma, construction hours shall be assigned on a project-by-project basis by the Building Official, or his or her designee, or as established within a project’s Conditions of Approval, based on evaluation of potential noise-related impacts on surrounding uses.

[History: Formerly § 5.04.110; Ord 661, 9/12/07; Ord 738, 1/14/15; Ord 755, 2/10/16; Ord. 799, 1/8/20; Ord. 2026-828, 1/14/26 ]

No person shall conduct any construction or repair work that interferes with or encroaches upon the public right-of-way unless that person establishes and maintains an accessible path of travel during construction for use by persons, including those with disabilities, and posts adequate approved signage directing users to that path.

[History: Ord 713, 10/10/12; Ord 738, 1/14/15; Ord. 799, 1/8/20; Ord. 2026-828,

1/14/26]

Division4:Enforcement

(a) The Building Official of the Town of Colma, or his or her designee, shall enforce the provisions of this Code, acting for and on behalf of the Town of Colma.

(b) Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13146, the responsibility for the enforcement of Building Standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal and contained within these codes, relating to fire and panic safety and other regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal as they apply to Group R, Division 3 One and Two Family Dwellings, shall be delegated to the Building Official of the Town of Colma.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-20

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD. 2026-828, 1/14/26]

(a) A willful violation of a lawful order of the Building Official issued pursuant to the Colma Building Codes is a misdemeanor, punishable as set forth in subchapter 1.05.010 of the Colma Municipal Code.

(b) A violation of any other provision of this subchapter is an infraction, punishable as set forth in subchapter 1.05 of the Colma Municipal Code, including paragraph (c)(4) of section 1.05.020.

(c) A violation of this subchapter shall also be deemed to be a public nuisance under section 2.01.060 of the Colma Municipal Code, and may be abated pursuant to the procedures set forth in subchapter 2.01 of the Code. The costs of abatement shall become a lien upon the property involved. Notwithstanding any other provision in subchapter 2.01, the authority granted the Code Enforcement Officer, in subchapter 2.01 may also be exercised by a Colma Building Official, or his or her designee. Specifically, but without limitation, the Colma Enforcement Officer or the Colma Building Official may issue Administrative Citations in accordance with the procedures set forth in subchapter 2.01 of the Colma Municipal Code.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15; ORD 799, 1/8/20; ORD 2026-828, 1/14/26]

Division5:RecyclingandDiversionofConstructionandDemolitionDebris

The City Council of the Town of Colma hereby finds and determines that the Town is committed to protecting the public health, safety, welfare and environment; that in order to meet these goals it is necessary that the Town promote the reduction of solid waste and reduce the stream of solid waste going to land fills; that under California law as embodied in the California Waste Management Act (California Public Resources Code Sections 40000 et seq.), Colma is required to prepare, adopt and implement source reduction and recycling elements to reach reduction goals, and is required to make substantial reductions in the volume of waste materials going to landfill, under the threat of penalties of $10,000 per day; that debris from demolition and construction of buildings and tenant upgrades represents a portion of the volume presently coming from Colma, and that much of said debris is particularly suitable for recycling; that Colma' s commitment to the reduction of waste and to compliance with state law requires the establishment of programs for recycling and salvaging construction and demolition materials; the City Council recognizes that requiring demolition and construction debris to be recycled and reused may in some respects add modestly to the cost of demolition and in other respects may make possible some cost recovery and cost reduction; and that it is necessary in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare that the following regulations be adopted.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-21

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

For purposes of this chapter the following definitions apply:

(a) "Builder" means any person or entity holding, or required to hold, a contractor's license of any type under the laws of the State of California, or who performs (whether as contractor, subcontractor or owner-builder) any construction, demolition, remodeling, or landscaping service relating to buildings or accessory structures in the Town of Colma.

(b) "Construction" means all building, landscaping, remodeling, addition, removal or destruction involving the use or disposal of Designated Recyclable and Reusable Materials as defined in paragraph D below.

(c) "Demolition and Construction Debris” means:

(1) Discarded materials generally considered to be not water soluble and non-
hazardous in nature, including but not limited to steel, glass, brick, concrete, asphalt
material, pipe, gypsum, wallboard, and lumber from the construction or destruction of a
structure as part of a construction or demolition project or from the renovation of a
structure and/or landscaping, and including rocks, soils, tree remains, trees, and other
vegetative matter that normally results from land clearing, landscaping and development
operations for a construction project.

(2) Clean cardboard, paper, plastic, wood, and metal scraps from any construction
and/or landscape project.

(3) Non-construction and demolition debris wood scraps.

(4) Deminimis amounts of other non hazardous wastes that are generated at
construction or demolition projects provided such amounts are consistent with best
management practices of the industry.

(5) Mixing of construction and demolition debris with other types of solid waste will
cause it to be classified as other than construction and demolition debris.

(d) "Designated Recyclable and Reusable Materials" means:

(1) Masonry building materials including all products generally used in construction
including, but not limited to asphalt, concrete, rock, stone and brick.

(2) Wood materials including any and all dimensional lumber, fencing or construction
wood that is not chemically treated, creosoted, CCA pressure treated, contaminated or
painted.

(3) Vegetative materials including trees, tree parts, shrubs, stumps, logs, brush or
any other type of plants that are cleared from a site for construction or other use.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-22

(4) Metals including all metal scrap such as, but not limited to, pipes, siding, window frames, door frames and fences.

(5) Roofing Materials including wood shingles as well as asphalt, stone and slate
based roofing material.

“Salvageable Materials” including but not limited to wallboard, doors, windows, fixtures, toilets, sinks, bath tubs and appliances.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

(a) Prior to demolition, the Builder shall make each structure planned for demolition available for salvage and recovery and shall recover the maximum feasible amount of designated Recyclable and reusable materials. Recovered and salvaged designated Recyclable and reusable materials from the deconstruction phase shall qualify to be counted in meeting the diversion requirements of this chapter.

(b) Construction Debris and Demolition Debris may not be collected and removed from property in the Town except by a Franchisee, or a licensed construction or demolition contractor using its own employees, equipment and vehicles as an incidental part of a comprehensive service offered by such contractor, rather than as a hauling service, or the person actually generating the Construction or Demolition Debris. All Construction Debris and Demolition Debris shall be disposed of by such person at a licensed transfer station or a materials recovery facility. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Code, the Collector may charge a fee for such services.

(c) Nothing in this subchapter or subchapter 3.05 shall prohibit the generator of Construction or Demolitions Debris from selling or donating such materials to a buyer or donee, provided that the generator may not pay the buyer or donee for collecting, removing or disposing of Construction or Demolition Debris.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

(a) The Builder shall divert at least the following specified percentages of the waste tonnage of demolition and construction debris generated from every demolition, remodeling and construction project from going to land fill by using recycling, reuse and diversion programs:

(1) Demolition: fifty percent (50%) of waste tonnage for projects which include
concrete and asphalt waste, or fifteen percent (15%) of waste tonnage for projects
which do not include concrete and asphalt waste;

(2) Re-roofing of homes with shingles or shakes as a separate project: fifty percent
(50%) of waste tonnage;

(3) Construction and Remodeling: fifty percent (50%) of waste tonnage.

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-23

(b) Separate calculations and reports will be required for the demolition and for the construction portion of projects involving both demolition and construction.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

(a) Every applicant shall submit a properly completed "Recycling and Waste Reduction Form", on a form as prescribed by the Building Department, to the Building Department as a portion of the building or demolition permit process. The form shall contain an accurate estimate of the tonnage or other specified units of construction and/or demolition debris to be generated from construction and demolition on the site. Approval of the form as complete and accurate shall be a condition precedent to issuance of any building or demolition permit.

(b) The City Building Official shall, within 30 calendar days after the City has received an application for a construction or demolition project, determine, in writing, whether such application is complete and shall promptly transmit such determination to the applicant to the address indicated on the application form. In the event that the application is determined not to be complete, the City Building Official shall specify those parts of the application which are incomplete and shall indicate the manner in which they can be made complete.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

As a condition precedent to issuance of any permit for a building or a demolition permit that involves the production of solid waste destined to be delivered to a landfill, the applicant shall post a cash deposit in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00) for each estimated ton of construction and/or demolition debris, but not less than one hundred dollars per unit for residential projects or one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) for commercial, industrial or other projects. The deposit or cash bond shall be returned, without interest, in total or in proportion, upon proof to the satisfaction of the building official, that no less than the required percentages or proven proportion of those percentages of the tons of debris generated by the demolition and /or construction project have been diverted from landfills and have been recycled or reused. If a lesser percentage of tons or cubic yards than required are diverted, a proportionate share of the deposit will be returned. The deposit shall be forfeited entirely or to the extent that there is a failure to comply with the requirements of this chapter.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

(a) For construction or demolition projects where less than 1,000 lbs of waste has been calculated, and where in light of the facts and circumstances applicable to the project, including without limitation, the size of the project or the type of materials being removed (e.g., contaminated or non-recyclable material), it would be impossible or impractical for the Builder to comply with the diversion requirements set forth in Section 5.05.040 the Builder may seek a waiver of these requirements by filing a complete Town of Colma Waste Reduction Plan Waiver, available at the City Clerk’s office, with the Building Official. The Building Official shall review

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-24

the application and may waive the diversion and deposit requirements where he finds that: (1) the project is expected to generate less than 1,000 lbs of waste; (2) it would be impossible or impractical for the applicant to comply with the diversion requirements, given the nature of the project; and (3) the applicant shall maximize reuse and/or recycling of waste material generated by the project pursuant to the methods specified in its completed Town of Colma Waste Reduction Plan Waiver. The Building Official’s determination regarding whether to waive the requirements shall be in writing and shall explain the bases supporting the determination.

(b) All other provisions of this subchapter shall apply to a project that is granted a waiver pursuant to subsection (a).

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

As a condition precedent to issuance of any permit for a building or a demolition permit that involves the production of solid waste destined to be delivered to a landfill, the applicant shall pay to the Town a cash fee sufficient to compensate the Town for all expenses incurred in administering the permit. The amount of this fee shall be determined in accordance with the then current resolution of the City Council determining the same, and shall be specified in the Town’s Master Fee Schedule.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

During the term of the demolition or construction project, the Builder shall recycle or divert the required percentages of materials, and keep records thereof in tonnage or in other measurements approved by the Building Department that can be converted to tonnage. The Building department will evaluate and monitor each project to gauge the percentage of materials recycled, salvaged and disposed from the project. The required diversion of a minimum of the required percentages of the demolition and construction debris will be measured separately with respect to the demolition segment and the construction segment of a project where both demolition and construction are involved. To the maximum extent feasible on-site separation of scrap wood and clean green waste in a designated debris box or boxes shall be arranged, in order to permit chipping and mulching for soil enhancement or land cover purposes. In order to protect chipping and grinding machinery, metal and other materials which cannot be chipped or ground shall not be placed in such boxes. On-site separation shall be undertaken for wallboard to the extent feasible on new construction.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

Within sixty (60) days following the completion of the demolition project, and again within sixty (60) days following the completion of the construction project, the Builder shall, as a condition precedent to final inspection and to issuance of any certificate of occupancy, submit documentation to the Building Department to establish compliance with the requirements of Section 5.05.040. The documentation shall consist a final completed "Recycling and Waste

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-25

Reduction Form" showing actual data of tonnage of materials recycled and diverted, supported by originals or certified photocopies of receipts and weight tags or other records of measurement from recycling companies, deconstruction contractors and/or landfill and disposal companies. Receipts and weight tags will be used to verify whether materials generated from the site have been or are to be recycled, reused, salvaged or otherwise disposed of. If a project involves both demolition and construction, the report and documentation for the demolition project must be submitted and approved by the Building Department before issuance of a building permit for the construction project. In the alternative, the permittee may submit a letter stating that no waste or recyclable materials were generated from project, in which case this statement shall be subject to verification by the Building Department. Any deposit posted pursuant to Section 5.05.060 shall be forfeited if the permittee does not meet the timely reporting requirements of this section.

[History: ORD. 738, 1/14/15]

Building & Construction Colma Municipal Code (January 2026) Page 5.04-26

CHAPTER FIVE: PLANNING, ZONING, USE, AND DEVELOPMENT OF LAND AND IMPROVEMENTS