This chapter, the 2025 California Building Code, including Chapter 1, Appendices C, I, and J; the 2025 California Residential Code, including Appendix AH; the 2025 California Mechanical Code; the 2025 California Plumbing Code, including Appendices A, B, D, G, H, I and K; the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code, including all appendices; the 2025 California Existing Building Code; the 2025 California Historical Building Code, including Appendix A; the 2025 California Electrical Code, including all appendices; the 2025 Wildland-Urban Interface Code, including all appendices; the 2025 California Energy Code, including all appendices; and the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code may be collectively referred to and cited as the Palm Springs Building Code.
(Ord. 1296 § 1, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 1, 1989; Ord. 1378 § 1, 1991; Ord. 1414 § 1, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 1, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 1, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 1, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 1, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 1, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 2, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 2, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 2, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 2, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 2, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
These certain documents, a copy of each of which are on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Building Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 2, Volumes 1 and 2, including Chapter 1, Appendices C, I and J, and all tables and indices thereto, except as hereinafter modified, are hereby adopted by reference, pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1032 § 1, 1976; Ord. 1077 § 1, 1978; Ord. 1036 § 1, 1979; Ord. 1127 § 1, 1981; Ord. 1221 § 1, 1984; Ord. 1245 § 1, 1985; Ord. 1296 § 2, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 2, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 2, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 2, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 2, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 2, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 2, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 2, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 3, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 3, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 3, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 3, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 3, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
(a) 
The California Building Code, together with Chapter 1 providing the administrative and enforcement provisions of the code, is adopted herein by reference is hereby modified by the following additions, amendments and deletions:
(1) 
Amend subsection 102.6, Existing Structures, to read as follows:
102.6 Existing Structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, the California Existing Building Code, the International Property Maintenance Code, or the California Fire Code.
(2) 
Amend subsection 105.2, Work exempt from permit, Building: item 2, to read as follows:
105.2 Work exempt from permit. Building:
2. Solid fences or walls not over 42" high and open fences (must have an open surface area of at least 90 percent or more) not over 48" high.
(3) 
Amend subsection 105.2, Work exempt from permit. Building: item 4, to read as follows:
105.2. Work exempt from permit. Building:
4. Retaining walls that are not over 3 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding flammable or combustible liquids.
(4) 
Amend subsection 105.3.2, Time limitation of application, to read as follows:
105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the building official is authorized to grant one or two extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justificable cause demonstrated.
If the applicant submits a request for extension after the expiration date, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. The application shall be subject to any new adopted laws, ordinances and regulations that became effective since the original application date.
(5) 
Amend subsection 105.5, Expiration, to read as follows:
105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended, abandoned, or without progress at any time after the work is commenced for a period of 180 days. Progress shall further be defined as obtaining approval of one or more inspections required in accordance with Section 110 of this Code. Prior to a permit's expiration and upon a written request of the applicant demonstrating and identifying circumstances beyond its reasonable control preventing completion of the work authorized by the permit, the building official may grant, in writing, extensions of time, not to exceed 90 days. However, no permit shall be extended such that its term exceeds three years from date of issuance, unless showing significant cause for such extension and is authorized by the City Council.
Where a permit has expired, a new permit shall be required.
Exception: Permits related to code enforcement action may be set for expiration dates of less than 180 days and is subject to the discretion of the building official.
(6) 
Add new subsection 105.8, Permit issuance restrictions, to read as follows:
105.8 Permit issuance restrictions. Permits for electrical, mechanical, or plumbing work, on other than R-3 and associated U occupancies, shall only be issued to California licensed contractors.
(7) 
Amend subsection 107.5, Retention of construction documents, to read as follows:
107.5 Retention of construction documents. One set of approved construction documents shall be retained by the building official for a period of not less than 90 days from date of completion of the permitted work, or as required by state or local laws.
(8) 
Add new subsection 110.3.13, Swimming pools, to read as follows:
110.3.13 Swimming pools. The minimum inspection requirements for swimming pool permits are as listed.
110.3.13.1 Pre-Gunite. Inspection shall be made after all pool steal is in place and bonded but prior to application of any gunite.
110.3.13.2 Underground plumbing, gas and electrical. Inspection shall be made after the Pre-Gunite and installation of all underground utilities, but prior to covering any pipes or conduits.
Note: A single Combination Inspection may be performed which includes Pre-Gunite and Underground.
110.3.13.3 Deck bonding. Inspection shall be made after the pool deck steel is installed and bonded, but prior to pouring any concrete.
110.3.13.4 Encapsulation. Inspection shall be made after the pool is gunited, and the lighting niche is installed and wired, but prior to the application of plaster or other finishes. All alarms, barriers and other protective measures must be in place.
110.3.13.5 Final. Inspection shall be made after all work has been inspected and complete and the pool is filled with water.
(9) 
Amend subsection 111.2, Certificate issued, item 3, to read as follows:
111.2 Certificate issued.
3. The name and address of the business or property owner.
(10) 
Amend subsection 111.2, Certificate issued, item 6, to read as follows:
111.2 Certificate issued.
6. The name of the building official and the issuing individual.
(11) 
Amend subsection 113.1, Means of Appeal - General, to read as follows:
113.1 Membership — Creation. There is created within the city a Building Code Board of Appeals which shall consist of three (3) members who are qualified by experience and training in matters of design and construction of buildings. Members are to be appointed in a manner prescribed in Chapter 2.06, Section 2.06.010, of the Palm Springs Municipal Code and serve at the pleasure of the city council.
113.1.1 Definitions.
Aggrieved person - Any person whose personal, pecuniary or property right or interest is directly and adversely affected, or upon whom a substantial burden or obligation is imposed by the action or decision appealed from.
Appellant - Any aggrieved person directly affected by an action who files an appeal.
Board - The Building Code Board of Appeals.
Building Official - Director of the Palm Springs Department of Building and Safety or their designated representative.
City - The City of Palm Springs, California.
Department — The City of Palm Springs Department of Building and Safety, an organization of the city government which under the direction of the Building Official has the responsibility for carrying out and enforcing Title 24 (the California Building Standards Code), and any local amendments to that code.
Officer - An officer of the city who is not a member of the legislative body or appointed boards or commissions. Such officers include but are not limited to the City Manager, Deputy City Manager, Chief of Police, Fire Chief, Director of Planning, Director of Maintenance/Public Works, or similar officer.
Respondent - The Building Official or Officer who took the action appealed from, and any other Building Official or Officer named as respondent in an appeal.
Title 24 - The California Building Standards Code, which is composed of 12 parts: the California Administrative Code, the California Building Code (Volumes 1 and 2), the California Electrical Code, the California Plumbing Code, the California Energy Code, the California Historical Buildings Code, the California Fire Code, the California Existing Building Code, the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), and the California Referenced Standards Code.
113.1.2 Scope of Coverage.
(a)
The Board shall hear all appeals in accordance with the procedures contained in Section 113.1.9, Building Appeals Hearing Procedures.
(b)
The Board is authorized to adopt resolutions and take all actions necessary and proper to carry out the functions of the Board pursuant to this section and this chapter.
(c)
The Board shall recommend reasonable interpretations of Title 24, and other matters that may be referred to the Board by the Building Official.
(d)
The Board may recommend minor deviations from the provisions of Title 24 in the following circumstances:
(1)
When the strict application, operation, or enforcement of Title 24 would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship; and
(2)
When for the purpose intended, the alternate materials or type of construction proposed is at least equivalent to the requirements of the applicable regulations in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, and durability, and provides the equivalent level of safety.
(e)
The Board may request through the City Manager information, services, facilities, or any other assistance for the purpose of furthering the objectives of this chapter.
(f)
The Board may meet with and receive advice from the City Attorney as it or the City Attorney may deem necessary.
(g)
In lieu of the Board hearing and deciding appeals, the City Manager may, from time to time, designate one or more hearing officers (each, a "Hearing Officer") to hear and decide such appeals. For example, but not by way of limitation, in the event a quorum of the Board is unable to be established, the City Manager shall have the authority to so designate a Hearing Officer. Whenever a Hearing Officer is designated to hear and decide an appeal, all references in this Chapter to "Board" shall automatically be deemed to refer to "Hearing Officer". Each Hearing Officer shall be an individual subject to the provisions of the Political Reform Act of 1974 and all other laws, ordinances, or regulations of the state or the City relating to conflicts of interest. Unless an appellant requests, in writing, to be partially responsible for payment of the costs of the Hearing Officer, the City shall be responsible for payment of the costs of the Hearing Officer.
113.1.3. The Board shall function as the "Local Appeals Board" and "Housing Appeals Board" as specified in Sections 17920.5 and 17920.6, respectively, of Division 13, Part 1.5 of the California Health and Safety Code.
113.1.4 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true extent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.
113.1.5 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and are not employees of the City.
113.1.5.1 Membership - Terms.
(a)
Members of the board shall be appointed or removed in accordance with and shall be subject to all the provisions of Chapter 2.06, as that Chapter and its provisions may be amended from time to time
(b)
In making appointments to the board of building appeals, the City Council will bear in mind the nature of the board and the special expertise needed to exercise its function. The Council will endeavor to appoint as members people with special expertise in providing due process in the conduct of hearings.
113.1.6 Administration. The Building Official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the Board.
113.1.7 Meetings.
(a)
The Board shall meet in the City Hall at such time and day as the board may establish, as frequently as necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter. The Building Official shall, to the extent practicable, arrange the presence of all three board members at each board meeting.
(b)
Two (2) members of the board shall constitute a quorum. Any ruling, decision or other action of the board must be by a majority vote of a full quorum of the board.
(c)
It shall be the obligation of the members of the board to attend all meetings. If a member absents themself from three consecutive meetings, or from twenty-five percent of the duly scheduled meetings within any fiscal year, without having been excused from doing so by the board, the Chair shall file a certification with the Building Official that such absences have occurred, and the office of the absent board member shall thereupon automatically become vacant and shall be filled as any other vacancy.
(d)
The Building Official shall not schedule a board meeting unless at least two (2) board members confirm their availability to attend the board meeting.
(e)
In the event that the Building Official cannot schedule a timely meeting for the board to consider an appeal, within forty-five days after the filing of the notice of that appeal, the City Manager shall designate a Hearing Officer to hear the appeal.
113.1.8 Building appeals - Filing and notice procedures.
(a)
A person aggrieved by an action taken by the Department of Building and Safety, as provided in Section 113.1.2, Scope of Coverage, may appeal the action to the board by filing with the Building Official a written notice of appeal within ten days of the action. The notice of appeal shall set forth the appellant's full name and mailing address, the specific action appealed from, the grounds for the appeal and the relief sought; and shall include payment to the Department of Building and Safety an appeal fee, as established or amended time to time by resolution of the City Council.
(b)
The notice required by subsection (a) of this section, shall be filed no later than ten days following the date of mailing to appellant of notice of the action from which the appeal is taken or, if there is no such mailing and/or none is required, no later than fifteen days following the date of the action which is the subject of the appeal. The Building Official shall furnish a copy of the appeal to the respondent within five days after filing.
(c)
The Building Official, upon receipt of the notice of appeal, shall set a time and place for the hearing of such appeal by the board. The appeal shall be heard no more than forty-five days following the filing of the notice of appeal unless the parties waive such time limits.
(d)
Notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be mailed or otherwise delivered by the Building Official to the appellant, respondent, and all other persons, if any, to whom notice of the initial application or action was required, not less than ten days prior to the hearing. If publication of the initial application or action being appealed was required, the notice of appeal shall be published in a similar manner.
(e)
After an appeal has been initiated, a cross-appeal may be brought by any person who would otherwise have had standing to appeal the subject action or decision. The cross-appellant shall file a written notice of cross-appeal with the Building Official stating cross-appellant's full name and mailing address, the specific action appealed from, the grounds for the cross-appeal and the relief sought. Such notice shall be filed no later than five days prior to the hearing except for good cause shown to the satisfaction of the board. The failure to give notice of the hearing to any person who would qualify to file a cross-appeal shall not invalidate any action of the board.
(f)
Unless the notice of appeal names some other respondent, the staff member of the Department of Building and Safety which took the action or made the decision being appealed shall be designated the "respondent."
113.1.9 Building appeals hearing procedures.
(a)
Three members shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of conducting a hearing on any appeal, provided that no board member may vote on the decision if absent from a part of the hearing unless such board member certifies that he or she listened to or read the transcript, if any, of the entire proceedings.
(b)
All hearings shall be open to the public.
(c)
In any hearing conducted by the Board, it shall have the power to examine witnesses and compel their attendance for the production of evidence by subpoenas issued under the authority of the City Council and attested by the Building Official. The Chair may issue subpoenas on behalf of the Board under the authority of the City Council. Subpoenas may also be issued at the request of the parties prior to the commencement of such hearing. No subpoena may be issued for any reason without the concurrence of the City Attorney that there is good cause for such subpoena to issue, and such subpoena is approved by the City Council. It shall be the duty of the Chief of Police to cause all such subpoenas to be served, and the refusal of a person to attend or to testify in answer to such a subpoena shall subject the person to prosecution in the same manner set forth by law for failure to appear before the Council in response to a subpoena issued by the Council.
(d)
The hearing need not be conducted in accordance with the technical rules relating to evidence and witnesses, but hearings shall be conducted in a manner most conducive to determination of the truth. Any relevant evidence shall be admitted if it is the sort of evidence on which responsible persons are accustomed to rely in the conduct of serious affairs, regardless of the existence of any common law or statutory rules which might make improper the admission of such evidence over objection in civil actions. Hearsay evidence may be used for the purpose of supplementing or explaining any direct evidence but shall not be sufficient in itself to support a finding unless it would be admissible over objection in civil actions. The rules of privilege shall be effective to the same extent that they are now or hereafter may be recognized in civil actions, and irrelevant and unduly repetitious evidence may be excluded. Decisions made by the board shall not be invalidated by any informality in the proceedings, and the board shall not be bound by technical rules of evidence.
(e)
The presiding officer shall rule on the admission or exclusion of evidence with the assistance of the legal advisor to the Board.
(f)
All parties shall have the right to be heard by the Board either in person or by counsel.
(g)
No party shall have the right to cross-examine any other party or witness except for good cause shown to the satisfaction of the Board.
(h)
The Board shall determine relevancy, weight and credibility of testimony and evidence. It shall base its findings on the preponderance of the evidence.
(i)
The Board, prior to or during a hearing, may grant a continuance for any reason it believes to be important to its reaching a fair and proper decision.
(j)
The Board, after it concludes the hearing, may deliberate its decision in closed session if permitted by the Brown Act. Members of the Board may request the attendance of the Board's legal counsel to a discussion held in closed or open session solely for the purpose of rendering legal advice to the commission.
113.1.10 Determinations made by the board.
(a)
The Board shall render its decision in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(b)
The Board shall render its decision consistent with applicable law and all ordinances of this city even in situations in which the board disagrees with the applicable law and/or ordinances. After rendering its decision, in any matter in which the Board believes changes are appropriate, the board may submit to the City Council and Building Official any recommendations that the order, decision or determination made by department and officer be changed.
(c)
The Board's decision shall be in writing and shall set forth the board's findings of fact and conclusions.
(d)
The Board shall render its decision within fifteen days following the conclusion of the hearing of the appeal. Upon finding good cause to do so, the board may extend the time for rendering its decision up to ninety days.
(e)
No later than five days following the rendering of the board's decision, the Building Official shall mail or otherwise deliver a copy of said decision to each party who appeared during the proceedings, or who requested to be furnished a copy of the decision. Failure of the Building Official to mail or deliver a copy of the decision to each party or to any party shall not affect the finality or effectiveness of the decision.
(f)
The Board's decision shall constitute final action and be effective on the date on which the decision is rendered.
113.1.11 Disposition report. The Board shall file with the city council a written report on each decision of the board not later than five days following the rendering of the board's decision. The disposition report shall include any recommendations to the department which the board believes are in order to assist the department in future enforcement actions.
(12) 
Amend Section 202, Definitions, by adding the following definition:
FIRE DEPARTMENT 5:00-MINUTE FIRST DUE ENGINE TRAVEL TIME. The Fire Department Response Time is defined as the time the fire station or response personnel received notification of a call for emergency service, allowing two minutes for "firefighter turnout" and five minutes for travel on paved streets. The Plam Springs Fire Department Five-Minute Response Time Map is identified in Appendix P.
(13) 
Amend subsection 502.1, Address identification, to read as follows:
502.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be 12 inches high for commercial and 6 inches high for residential with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch. Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.
(14) 
Add new subsection 901.6.1.1, Approval required, to read as follows:
901.6.1.1 Approval required. Prior to the removal of any fire protection system, approval shall be obtained from the fire code official.
(15) 
Amend subsection 903.2, Where required, to read as follows:
903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.22 as amended by this code. For purposes of this code, subsections regarding building size and fire resistive construction shall not be considered for purposes of reducing the gross fire area of that building.
Exceptions: (1) Group U Occupancies of non-combustible construction; and (2) Group S-2 carports 100% open on all sides of non-combustible construction.
An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in any building, regardless of gross fire area, that is built beyond a five-minute fire department emergency response time as defined in Section 202.
Exceptions: (1) Group U Occupancies of non-combustible construction; and (2) Group S-2 carports 100% open on all sides of non-combustible construction.
An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in every Group A Occupancy per Section 903.2.1 including those that result from a change of use in an existing building or portion thereof.
Exception: Group A-2 occupancies.
(16) 
Delete subsection 903.2.1.1, Group A-1.
(17) 
Amend subsection 903.2.1.2, Group A-2, to read as follows:
903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group A-2 occupancies where one of the following conditions exist:
1.
The fully enclosed area exceeds 3,000 square feet. For the purposes of this section, the term "fully enclosed area" means an area enclosed by fire walls, fire barriers, or walls extending from floor to ceiling but does not include patio areas included solely within the horizontal projection of the roof or floor next above.
2.
The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet.
3.
The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more.
4.
The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
5.
The structure exceeds 5,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing a Group A-2 occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than four-hour resistance rating without openings.
(18) 
Amend item 1 of subsection 903.2.3, Group E, to read as follows:
1.
Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 3,000 square feet in area.
(19) 
Amend the exception to item 2 of subsection 903.2.3, Group E, to read as follows:
Exception: An automatic sprinkler system is not required in any fire area or area below the level of exit discharge where every classroom throughout the building has at least one exterior exit door at ground level and the fire area does not exceed 3,000 square feet.
(20) 
Amend items 1 and 3 of subsection 903.2.4, Group F-1, to read as follows:
1.
Where a Group F-1 fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet.
3.
Where the combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 3,000 square feet.
(21) 
Amend items 1, 3, 4 and 5 of subsection 903.2.7, Group M, to read as follows:
1.
Where a Group M fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet.
3.
Where the combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 3,000 square feet.
4.
A Group M occupancy used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture and mattresses exceeds 3,000 square feet.
5.
The structure exceeds 3,000 square feet, contains more than one fire area containing a group M occupancy and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating.
(22) 
Amend items 1, 3 and 4 of subsection 903.2.9, Group S-1, to read as follows:
1.
A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet.
3.
The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 3,000 square feet.
4.
A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial trucks or buses where the fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet.
(23) 
Amend items 1, 2 and 4 of subsection 903.2.9.1, Repair garages, to read as follows:
1.
Buildings two or more stories in height, including basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 3,000 square feet.
2.
One-story buildings with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 3,000 square feet.
4.
A Group S-1 fire area used for repair of commercial trucks or buses where the fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet.
(24) 
Amend subsection 903.2.10, Group S-2 enclosed parking garages, to read as follows:
903.2.10 Group S-2 parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-2 occupancy, as classified in accordance with section 406.6 of the California Building Code, where one of the following conditions exists:
1.
A Group S-2 fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet; or
Exception: Group S-2 carports - 100% open on all sides of non-combustible construction.
2.
Where the enclosed parking garage is located beneath other groups.
(25) 
Amend subsection 903.2.10.1, Commercial parking garages, to read as follows:
903.2.10.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial trucks or buses where the fire area exceeds 3,000 square feet.
(26) 
Add new subsection 903.2.21, Group B, to read as follows:
903.2.21 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new buildings containing a Group B occupancy that exceeds 3,000 square feet.
(27) 
Add new subsection 903.2.22, Group F-2, to read as follows:
903.2.22 Group F-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout any new building containing a Group F-2 occupancy that exceeds 3,000 square feet.
(28) 
Amend subsection 903.3.9, Floor control valves, to read as follows:
903.3.10 Floor control valves. Approved supervised indicating control valves, check valves, water flow detection assemblies and main drains shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in buildings three or more stories in height unless otherwise approved by the fire code official. Valve locations will be determined and approved by the fire code official.
(29) 
Add new subsection 903.6, Increased square footage, to read as follows:
903.6 Increased square footage. Any existing building or structure undergoing construction or alteration which adds square footage exceeding the total area as prescribed in Section 903.2 shall require an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
Exceptions: (1) One- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes; and (2) additions to occupancies equaling fifty (50) percent or less of total floor area. Fire sprinkler requirements for these occupancies shall be determined based on California Fire Code Table B105.1 - Minimum Required Fire Flow for Buildings.
(30) 
Amend subsection 907.2.13, High-rise buildings, to read as follows:
907.2.13 High-rise buildings. High-rise buildings and buildings having occupied floors located more than 60 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.1 and emergency voice/alarm communication systems in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
(31) 
Amend subsection 907.2.18, Deep underground buildings, to read as follows:
907.2.18 Deep underground buildings. All underground buildings shall be equipped throughout with a manual fire alarm system, including an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
(32) 
Amend subsection 1203.1, Equipment and systems, by adding the following sentence at the end of the section:
1203.1 Equipment and systems. In residential occupancies, air conditioning facilities shall be provided at all times which are capable of maintaining a maximum room temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms.
(33) 
Subsection 1206.1, Scope, is amended to read as follows:
1206.1 Purpose and Scope. The purpose of this section is to establish uniform minimum noise insulation performance standards to protect persons within hotels, motels, dormitories, apartment houses, attached dwellings, and those detached single-family dwellings located within the airport 'N' zone overlay from the effects of excessive noise, including, but not limited to, hearing loss or impairment and interference with speech and sleep.
(34) 
Amend subsection 1511.1, General, to read as follows:
1511.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the construction of rooftop structures. All rooftop equipment, unless exempted by the Building Official, shall be provided with an approved six (6) inch high platform equipped with a sheet metal cover. Design of the platform shall be as per City detail or approved equal.
(35) 
Amend subsection 3109.1, General, to read as follows:
3109.1 General. The design and construction of swimming pools, spas and hot tubs shall comply with the California Codes.
(36) 
Add subsection 3109.2.1, Drowning prevention safety features, to read as follows:
3109.2.1 Drowning prevention safety features. Under Section 115922, number (1) shall be required plus one of the other remaining six drowning prevention features.
(37) 
Add new subsection J101, Building Official, to Appendix J, Grading, to read as follows:
J101 Building Official. For the purpose of administration and enforcement of this Appendix J, Grading, the building official shall mean the City Engineer or his or her designated representative.
(38) 
Add new subsection J104.1.1, Grading designation, to Appendix J, Grading, to read as follows:
J104.1.1 Grading designation. Grading in excess of 2,000 cubic yards shall be performed in accordance with an approved grading plan prepared by a civil engineer, and shall be designated as "engineered grading". Grading involving less than 2,000 but more than 50 cubic yards shall be performed in accordance with an approved grading plan prepared by an appropriate design professional as allowed by the building official, and shall be designated "regular grading" unless the permittee chooses to have the grading performed as engineered grading, or the building official determines that special conditions or unusual hazards exist, in which case grading shall conform to the requirements for engineered grading. Grading involving less than 50 cubic yards shall be exempt from the requirements for a grading plan, unless determined otherwise by the building official, in which case grading shall conform to the requirements for regular grading.
Exception: Grading in excess of 2,000 cubic yards which is primarily of a landscaping and "fine grading" nature, where no flood hazard is present, may be designated "regular grading" at the discretion of the building official.
(39) 
Amend subsection J104.2, Site plan requirements by adding text after the first paragraph of the subsection to read as follows:
Dust Control. An effective means of dust control, which shall include provisions or adequate watering during the grading provisions for adequate watering during the grading process and provision for continuance of dust control after grading, until such time that the graded surface presents sufficient protective cover against wind or water erosion so that special dust control measures are no longer necessary.
Engineered Grading Requirements. An application for a grading permit shall be accompanied by two sets of plans and specifications, and a soils report meeting the requirements of Section J104.3. The plans and specifications shall be prepared and signed by an individual licensed to practice as a civil engineer by the California Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.
Specifications, when required, shall contain information covering construction and material requirements.
Plans shall be drawn to scale and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that they will conform to the provisions of this code and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations. The first sheet of each set of plans shall give the location of the work, the name and address of the owners, and the person by whom they were prepared.
The plans shall include the following information:
1.
General vicinity of the proposed site.
2.
Property limits and accurate contours of existing ground and details of terrain and area drainage.
3.
Limiting dimensions, elevations or finish contours to be achieved by the grading, and proposed drainage channels and related construction.
4.
Detailed plans of all surface and subsurface drainage devices, walls, cribbing, dams and other protective devices to be constructed with, or as a part of, the proposed work, together with a hydrology study including a map showing the drainage area and the calculations of the estimated stormwater runoff of the area served by any drains.
5.
Location of any buildings or structures on the property where the work is to be performed and the location of any buildings or structures on land of adjacent owners that are within 15 feet of the property or that may be affected by the proposed grading operations.
6.
Recommendations included in the soils report shall be incorporated in the grading plans or specifications. When approved by the building official, specific recommendations contained in the soils report, which are applicable to grading, may be included by reference.
7.
The dates of the soils report together with the names, addresses and phone numbers of the firms or individuals who prepared the report.
Regular Grading Requirements. An application for a grading permit shall be accompanied by two sets of plans and specifications, and a soils report meeting the requirements of Section J104.3. The plans and specifications shall be prepared and signed by an individual appropriately licensed to practice civil engineering, architecture, or a similar field by the state of California, with experience preparing grading plans, or as allowed by the building official.
Plans and specifications for regular grading shall conform to the requirements for engineered grading; however, particular requirements may be waived at the discretion of the building official given the particular nature of proposed grading designated as "regular grading."
Exception: Grading in excess of 2,000 cubic yards which is primarily of a landscaping and "fine grading" nature, where no flood hazard is present, may be termed "regular grading" at the discretion of the Building Official.
(Ord. 1296 § 3, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 3, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 3, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 3, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 3, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 3, 2002; Ord. 1641 § 1, 2003; Ord. 1731 § 3, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 3, 2008; Ord. 1767 § 1, 2010; Ord. 1780 § 4, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 4, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 4, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 4, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 4, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2109, 2/13/2025; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Residential Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 2.5, including Chapter 1 and Appendix BF, and all tables and indices thereto, except as hereinafter modified, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Residential Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1780 § 5, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 5, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 5, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 5, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 5, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
The California Residential Code adopted herein by reference is hereby modified by the following additions, amendments and deletions:
(a) 
Amend section R325, Light, Ventilation and Heating to read as follows:
R325 Light, Ventilation, Heating and Air Conditioning
(b) 
Add new subsection R325.10, Required air conditioning, to read as follows:
R325.10 Required air conditioning. Every dwelling unit shall be provided with air conditioning facilities capable of maintaining a room temperature of not more than 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms.
(c) 
Add new subsection R309.1.2, Townhouse increased square footage, to read as follows:
R309.1.2 Townhouse increased square footage. Any existing building or structure undergoing construction or alteration which adds square footage exceeding the total area as prescribed in Section 903.2 of the Palm Springs Fire Code, Article VI of the City of Palm Springs Municipal Code, shall require an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
Exceptions: (1) One- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes; and (2) additions to occupancies equaling fifteen (15) percent or less of total floor area. Fire sprinkler requirements for these occupancies shall be determined based on California Fire Code Table B105.1 - Minimum Required Fire Flow for Buildings.
(d) 
Add new subsection R309.2.2, Increased square footage, to read as follows:
R309.2.2 Increased square footage. Any existing building or structure undergoing construction or alteration which adds square footage exceeding the total area as prescribed in Section 903.2 of the Palm Springs Fire Code, Article VI of the City of Palm Springs Municipal Code, shall require an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
Exceptions: (1) One- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes; and (2) additions to occupancies equaling fifteen (15) percent or less of total floor area. Fire sprinkler requirements for these occupancies shall be determined based on California Fire Code Table B105.1
Minimum Required Fire Flow for Buildings.
(e) 
Amend subsection R801.2, Requirements, by adding a new paragraph at the end of the subsection to read as follows:
All rooftop equipment unless exempt by the Building Official, shall be provided with an approved six-inch high platform equipped with a sheet metal cover. Design of the platform shall be as per City detail or approved equal.
(Ord. 1780 § 6, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 6, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 6, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 6, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 6, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Mechanical Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 4, including Chapter 1 and all tables and indices thereto, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Mechanical Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1032 § 1, 1976; Ord. 1077 § 1, 1978; Ord. 1086 § 1, 1979; Ord. 1127 § 1, 1981; Ord. 1221 § 1, 1984; Ord. 1245 § 2, 1985; Ord. 1296 § 4, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 4, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 4, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 4, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 4, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 4, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 4, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 4, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 7, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 7, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 7, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 7, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 7, 2020;Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Plumbing Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 5, including Chapter 1, Appendices A, B, D, G, H, I, and K, and all tables and indices thereto, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Plumbing Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1220 § 1, 1984; Ord. 1296 § 6, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 6, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 6, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 6, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 6, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 6, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 6, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 6, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 9, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 9, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 9, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 9, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 9, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code, including all appendices, tables, and indices thereto, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Property Maintenance Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1296 § 7, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 8, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 8, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 7, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 8, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 8, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 8, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 8, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 11, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 11, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 11, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 11, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 11, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023)
The International Property Maintenance Code adopted herein by reference is hereby amended and restated to read as follows:
(a) 
Amend the title of Section 602 to read as follows:
Section 602 Heating and Air Conditioning Facilities
(b) 
Amend Section 602.1 Facilities required, to read as follows:
602.1 Facilities required. Heating and air conditioning facilities shall be provided in structures as required by this section.
(c) 
Amend Section 602.2 by adding the following sentence at the end of the section:
602.2 Residential occupancies. Dwellings shall be provided with air conditioning facilities at all times, capable of maintaining a maximum temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms.
(d) 
Add subsection 602.3.1 to read as follows:
602.3.1 Air conditioning supply. Every owner and operator of any building who rents, leases or lets one or more dwelling units or sleeping units shall supply air conditioning at all times, to maintain a maximum temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in all habitable rooms.
(Ord. 2008 § 12, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Existing Building Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 10, including Chapter 1, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Existing Building Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1220 § 2, 1984; Ord. 1296 § 8, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 9, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 9, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 8, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 9, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 9, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 9, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 9, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 12, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 12, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 12, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 12, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 13, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file in the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Historical Building Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 8, and including Chapter 8-1, Appendix A, and all tables and indices thereto, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Historic Building Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1832 § 13, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 13, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 13, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 14, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file with the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Electrical Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 3, including Article 89, and all appendices, tables and indices thereto except as amended herein, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Electrical Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1296 § 11, 1988; Ord. 1378 § 2, 1991; Ord. 1522 § 11, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 12, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 12, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 12, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 12, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 13, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 14, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 14, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 14, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 15, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
The California Electrical Code adopted herein by reference is hereby modified by the following additions, amendments and deletions:
(a) 
Add new item (1) following subsection 90.8(A) to read as follows:
(1) 
Provisions for Future Solar PV Energy Systems. A one-inch diameter electrical conduit shall be provided for installation of future solar PV energy systems on single-family dwellings. The one-inch diameter electrical conduit shall extend from the exterior wall location adjacent to the main electrical service panel and terminate into the attic space. At each location, the conduit shall terminate at a two-gang, electric junction box. Three open spaces shall be provided at the bottom of the buss to accommodate future solar PV systems.
(b) 
Amend subsection 230.79(C), One-Family Dwellings, to read as follows:
230.79(C) One-Family Dwellings. For a one-family dwelling, the service disconnecting means shall have a rating of not less than 200 amperes, 3-wire, with a minimum 225 amp bus.
Exception: Single-Family Attached single-family units. Solar ready equipped panels with a busbar of 200 amps.
(c) 
Add new subsection 310.15(B)(1)(2)(a), Ambient Temperature in Exposed Attic or Unconditioned Spaces, to read as follows:
310.15(B)(1)(2)(a) Ambient Temperature in Exposed Attic or Unconditioned Spaces. Where NM, NMC, NMS and other cables, conductors and wiring methods listed in Chapter 3 are installed in an attic that is exposed to outside temperatures, or in unconditioned spaces, the ambient temperature shall be considered to exceed 140° F.
(Ord. 1296 § 12, 1988; Ord. 1522 § 12, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 13, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 13, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 13, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 13, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 14, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 15, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 15, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 15, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 16, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file with the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Energy Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 6, including all appendices, tables and indices thereto, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Energy Code, pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1296 § 13, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 12, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 12, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 13, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 14, 1999; Ord. 1618 § 14, 2002; Ord. 1731 § 14, 2007; Ord. 1735 § 14, 2008; Ord. 1780 § 15, 2010; Ord. 1832 § 16, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 16, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 16, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 17, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
That certain document, a copy of which is on file with the office of the city clerk, being marked and designated as the 2025 California Green Building Standards Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 11, including Chapter 1, and all appendices, tables and indices thereto, is hereby adopted by reference as the Palm Springs Green Building Code pursuant to Section 50022.1 et seq., of the California Government Code.
(Ord. 1296 § 14, 1988; Ord. 1325 § 1, 1989; Ord. 1832 § 17, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 17, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 17, 2016; Ord. 2008 § 18, 2020; Ord. 2078, 1/12/2023; Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)
(Ord. 1325 § 2, 1989; Ord. 1483 § 1, 1994; Ord. 1832 § 18, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 18, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 18, 2016)
(Ord. 1296 § 16, 1988; Ord. 1336 § 14, 1989; Ord. 1414 § 13, 1992; Ord. 1522 § 14, 1995; Ord. 1571 § 15, 1999; Ord. 1832 § 19, 2013; Ord. 1835 § 19, 2013; Ord. 1904 § 19, 2016)
The California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, together with Chapter 1 providing the administrative and enforcement provisions of the code, is adopted herein by reference is hereby modified by the following additions:
(a) 
Add subsection 603.5 Requirements, to read as follows:
603.5 Additional Requirements. Hazardous vegetation and fuels around all applicable buildings and structure shall be maintained in accordance with the following laws and regulations:
1.
Public Resources Code, Section 4291.
2.
California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 3, Section 1299 (see guidance for implementation "General Guideline to Create Defensible Space").
3.
California Government Code, Section 51182.
4.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 7, Subchapter 1, Section 3.07.
5.
PSFD's Appendix S (Vegetation Management in Fire Hazard Severity Zones).
(b) 
Add subsection 602.3.3, Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction, to read as follows:
602.3.3 Fuel Modification Requirements for New Construction. All new buildings to be built or installed in a Wildfire Risk Area shall comply with the following:
1.
Preliminary fuel modification plans shall be submitted to and approved by the Fire Code Official prior to or concurrently with the approval of any tentative map.
2.
Final fuel modification plans shall be submitted to and approved by the Fire Code Official prior to the issuance of a grading permit.
3.
The fuel modification plans shall meet the criteria set forth in the Fuel Modification Section of PSFD Appendix S "Vegetation Management in Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map."
a.
The fuel modification plan shall include provisions for the maintenance of the fuel modification in perpetuity.
4.
The fuel modification plan may be altered if conditions change. Any alterations to the fuel modification areas shall have prior approval from the Fire Code Official.
5.
All elements of the fuel modification plan shall be maintained in accordance with the approved plan and are subject to the enforcement process outlined in the Fire Code.
(Ord. 2119, 12/10/2025; Ord. 2120, 1/14/2026)