The following codes are adopted by reference as if fully set forth herein:
A. 
The 2025 California Building Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, and the following appendixes: Appendix I, J and P.
B. 
The 2025 California Residential Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2.5, and the following appendixes: Appendix BB, BF, BJ, BK, BL, BN, BO, and CI.
C. 
The 2025 California Electrical Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 3.
D. 
The 2025 California Mechanical Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 4, and the following appendixes: Appendix B, C.
E. 
The 2025 California Plumbing Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 5, and the following appendixes: Appendix A, B, D, H, J, M, R, S.
F. 
The 2025 California Energy Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6.
G. 
The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7.
H. 
The 2025 California Historical Building Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 8.
I. 
The 2025 California Fire Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, and the following appendixes: Appendix B, C.
J. 
The 2025 California Existing Building Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 10, and the following appendixes: Appendix A.
K. 
The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code ("CalGreen"), as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11.
L. 
The 2025 California Referenced Standards Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12.
Not less than one copy of each of the above codes shall be maintained by the office of the Building Department. Additionally, the Building Department shall also maintain a copy of any local amendments to such codes promulgated by the Southern Marin Fire Protection District pursuant to Cal. Health & Safety Code § 13869.7 and ratified by the City Council, which pursuant to state law shall also apply to regulate construction within the incorporated territory of the City of Sausalito.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
Section 104.4 Amended. Section 104.4, Right of entry, is amended to add the following phrase to the end of the last sentence: "including the warrant provisions of Cal. Civ. Proc. Code § 1822.50 et seq."
Section 104.6 Amended. Section 104.6, Notices and orders, is amended to add the following sentence: "No person shall remove or deface any notice or order posted by the building official except as authorized by the building official."
Section 104.10 Enacted. Section 104.10 is added to read as follows:
104.10 Liability for correction and abatement.
Where an individual, owner or occupant fails to eliminate a violation or hazardous condition, the Building Official is authorized to take corrective action as necessary to cause the abatement of the violation or hazardous condition. The City may recover the costs and expenses associated with the correction and abatement of a violation of hazardous condition, including all costs and expenses incurred by the City and contractors hired by the City to cause the correction and abatement as provided for in the Sausalito Municipal Code.
Section 104.11 Enacted. Section 104.11 is added to read as follows:
104.11 Building Division resource sharing.
Other enforcement agencies shall have authority to render necessary assistance to the City for plan review, inspection, enforcement and other building division services when authorized by written agreement and as delegated by the Building Official.
Section 105.2 Amended. Section 105.2, Work exempt from permit, is amended as follows:
Exemptions listed in paragraphs 1, 2, and 6 under the "Building" subsection are revised to read as follows:
1. One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet and the structure contains no plumbing, electrical or heating appliances. The provisions of Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall apply to buildings and structures located in the wildland- urban interface (WUI) or any Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
2. Fences not over 7 feet high, except that concrete, masonry or stone fences in excess of 3 feet high shall require a building permit.
6. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below, and which are not part of an accessible route, or are not a part of the means of egress from a normally occupied building.
Section 113.1 Amended. Section 113.1 is amended to read in entirety as follows:
Section 113.1 General.
In order to hear and decided appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the interpretation and application of this code, the City Council of the City of Sausalito may create a board of appeals, or designate an existing board to serve as the board of appeals. If no such board is created or designated by the City Council, then appeals shall be made to the City Council. Any board empowered to hear appeals shall have the power to adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions in writing.
Section 202 Amended. Section 202, Definitions, is amended to add the following definitions:
GRADE PLANE. A reference plane representing the average of finished ground level adjoining the building at exterior walls. Where the finished ground level slopes away from the exterior walls, the reference plane shall be established by the lowest points within the area between the building and the lot line or, where the lot line is more than 5 feet from the building, between the building and a point 5 feet from the building.
RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN. An area in which the preparation of food for eating occurs which has provisions for cooking or heating of food, or washing and storing of dishware and utensils, or refrigeration or storing of food.
SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. Substantial remodel shall mean the alteration of any structure which combined with any additions to the structure, affects a floor area which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the existing floor area of the structure within any 36-month period. When any changes are made in the building, such as walls, columns, beams or girders, floor or ceiling joists and coverings, roof rafters, roof diaphragms, foundations, piles or retaining walls or similar components, the floor area of all rooms affected by such changes shall be included in computing floor areas for purposes of applying this definition. This definition does not apply to the replacement and upgrading of residential roof coverings.
Section 503.1 Amended. Section 503.1, General, is amended by adding a paragraph to read as follows:
The provisions of this code do not authorize construction otherwise prohibited by the City of Sausalito General Plan, any specific plan, or zoning ordinance, which shall take precedence with respect to any height limit, building story limit, or building area requirements of this code, if in conflict therewith.
Section 903.2 Amended. Section 903.2, Where Required, is amended as follows:
Section 903.2 Where required. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new and existing buildings shall be provided in the locations described in this section.
Subsections 903.2.1 through 903.2.4 are hereby deleted and replaced to read as set forth below:
Section 903.2.1 Required installations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed and maintained in all newly constructed buildings or structures.
Exceptions:
1. Detached pool houses, workshops, Group U private garages, barns and similar structures, built in conjunction with existing non-sprinklered single family R residences and provided the new structure is less than 1,000 square feet and is not intended for use as a dwelling unit.
2. Detached non-combustible, limited combustible, or fire-retardant treated wood canopies.
3. Group B or M occupancies less than 1,000 square feet.
4. Detached restroom facilities associated with golf courses, ball fields, parks and similar uses as approved by the Fire Code Official.
Section 903.2.2 Additions and Alterations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be in all buildings in excess of 3,000 sq. ft. which have ten percent (10%) or more floor area added within any 36-month period.
Section 903.2.2.1 Substantial Remodel. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all buildings which have fifty percent (50%) or more floor area added, or any "substantial remodel" as defined in this code, within any 36-month period.
Section 903.2.3 Group R-3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 occupancies and shall be provided throughout all one- and two-family dwellings regardless of square footage in accordance with the California Residential Code. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all mobile homes, manufactured homes and multi-family manufactured homes with two or more dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.
Section 903.2.4 Change of Occupancy or Use. For any change of occupancy or use, when the proposed new occupancy classification is more hazardous based on a fire and life safety evaluation by the Fire Code Official, including but not limited to conversion of buildings to single family residences, bed and breakfast, inns, lodging houses or congregate residences or other similar uses, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout.
Subsections 903.2.5, 903.2.6, 903.2.8, 903.2.11, 903.2.12, 903.2.14, 903.2.15, 903.2.16, 903.2.17, 903.2.18, 903.2.19, and 903.2.20 remain in effect.
Section 903.3.10 Amended. Section 903.3.10, Floor control valves, is amended to read:
903.3.10 Floor control valves.
Floor control valves and waterflow detection assemblies shall be installed at each floor where any of the following occur:
1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
2. Buildings that are two or more stories in height.
3. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.
Exception: Group R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies floor control valves and waterflow detection assemblies shall not be required.
Section 903.6 Added. Section 903.6 is hereby added and shall read as follows:
Section 903.6 Scope of Addition.
When the addition of automatic fire sprinklers is required by the provisions of this code in an existing building, automatic fire sprinklers shall be extended into all unprotected areas of the building.
Section 904.14 Amended. Section 904.14 is amended to read as follows:
Section 904.12 Commercial cooking systems. Commercial cooking equipment that produces grease laden vapors shall be provided with a Type I Hood, in accordance with the California Mechanical Code, NFPA 96, and an automatic fire extinguishing system that is listed and labeled for its intended use as follows:
1.
Wet chemical extinguishing system, complying with UL 300.
2.
Carbon dioxide extinguishing system.
3.
Automatic fire sprinkler systems.
All existing dry chemical and wet chemical extinguishing systems shall comply with UL 300.
Exception: Public school kitchens, without deep-fat fryers, shall be upgraded to a UL300 compliant system during state-funded modernization projects that are under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect (DSA).
All systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code, NFPA 96, appropriate adopted standards, their listing and the manufactures' installation instructions.
Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are tested, listed, labeled and installed in accordance with UL 710B and the California Mechanical Code and NFPA 96.
Section 906.11 Added. Section 906.11 is hereby added to Chapter 9 and shall read as follows:
Section 906.11 Fire Extinguisher Documentation. The owner and/or operator of every Group R Division 1 and R Division 2 occupancies shall annually provide the Chief written documentation that fire extinguishers are installed and have been serviced as required by Title 19 California Code of Regulations when such extinguishers are installed in residential units in lieu of common areas.
Section 907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems Amended.
Section 907.2.13.1.2 of Chapter 9 is hereby amended by adding new subsection 3 to read as follows:
3. Duct smoke detectors shall be capable of being reset by a readily accessible, remote push button or key activated switch as approved by the Fire Code Official.
Section 907.6.6 Amended. Section 907.6.6 is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 907.6.6 Monitoring. New and upgraded fire alarm systems required by this chapter or by the California Building Code shall be monitored by an approved Central Station in accordance with NFPA 72 and this section.
Exception: Monitoring by central station is not required for:
1.
Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
2.
Group I-3 occupancies shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.
3.
Automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
Section 907.8.5.1 Added. Section 907.8.5.1 of Chapter 9 is hereby added and shall read as follows:
Section 907.8.5.1 Smoke Alarm Documentation. The owner and/or operator of every Group R Division 1, Division 2, Division 3.1, and Division 4 Occupancies shall annually provide the Fire Code Official with written documentation that the smoke alarms installed pursuant to the Building Code have been tested and are operational. If alarms are found to be inoperable or are missing, such alarms shall be repaired or replaced immediately.
Subsection 1015.2 Amended. The first paragraph of Subsection 1015.2, Where required, is amended to read as follows:
Guards shall be located along open-sided walking surfaces, including mezzanines, equipment platforms, stairs, ramps, landings, waterfront bulkheads, fixed piers, and gangways, that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Guards shall be adequate in strength and attachment in accordance with Section 1607.9.
Section 1505.1 Amended. Section 1505.1 is amended as follows:
Section 1505.1 is amended to delete the last sentence and delete Table 1505.1, but the exception remains.
Sections 1505.1.1 is amended to read as follows:
1505.1.1 Roofing requirements in a Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area. Roofing requirements for structures located in a Wildland-Urban interface (WUI) Fire Area shall be a minimum Class A roof covering.
Section 1505.1.2 is amended to read as follows:
1505.1.2 Roof coverings within all other areas. The entire roof covering of every existing structure, where more than 50% of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be of a fire-retardant roof covering material that is at least Class A.
Section 1807.4 Added. Section 1807.4 is added to read as follows:
1807.4 Wooden retaining walls. Wooden retaining walls may not be used to support any building surcharge or vehicular way. In addition, wooden retaining walls shall not be employed to retain soils above or below a building where failure of the wall may subject the building to damage.
Section 3109.3 Added. Section 3109.3 is added to read as follows:
3109.3 Hydrostatic pressure test. Circulation system piping, other than that integrally included in the manufacturer of the pool equipment, shall be subject to a hydrostatic pressure test of 25 pounds per square inch (psi) (172.4 Kpa). This pressure shall be held for not less than 15 minutes. Tests on piping systems constructed of plastic piping shall not use compressed air for the test.
Section 3201.5 Added. Section 3201.5, Projection into right-of-way, is added to read as follows:
3201.5 Projection into right-of-way. Any permit granted pursuant to this Code does not allow any projections upon, over or under the public right-of-way without acquiring an Encroachment Agreement or Encroachment Permit from the City.
Section 3202.2.3 Amended. Section 3202.2.3, Awnings, is amended to read as follows:
3202.2.3 Awnings. The vertical clearance from the public right-of-way to the lowest part of any awning, including valances, shall be not less than 8 feet.
Section 3303 Demolition. Subsection 3303.8 is added to read as follows:
3303.8 Statement of Vacated Structure. If the application is for the demolition of any building or portion thereof, the application shall contain a statement to be signed by the owner that the building or the portion to be demolished is unoccupied or that prior to commencement of demolition the building will be vacated. A permit for demolition shall state on the face thereof that issuance of the permit does not relieve the owner or permittee of the obligation of complying with all legal requirements in removing tenants and occupants prior to commencement of demolition, and that the City assumes no liability for the demolition or for the removal of tenants and occupants.
Section 3303.9 Added. Section 3303.9, Notice of Building Permit Issued, is added to read as follows:
3303.9 Notice of Building Permit Issued. If the proposed work is to be performed on the exterior of any building or structure, or involves the demolition of any building or structure, and does not require any discretionary entitlement, the issuance of which may be appealed to the Planning Commission and subsequently to the City Council, then the Building Official, immediately upon issuance of the building permit, shall issue to the applicant a Notice of Building Permit Issued which shall refer to the property by street address and/or Assessor's Parcel Number and shall state that the building permit has been issued for the property and that plans therefore may be reviewed at the Community Development Department. If the permit is for demolition, the Notice of Issuance of Building Permit shall contain the words, "Demolition Notice" in bold face letters. Immediately thereafter, the applicant shall cause the Notice of Building Permit Issued to be posted within 24 hours of permit issuance along the front property line, and in the case of demolition permits on the street face of each building to be demolished. In such cases, the building permit shall not be considered effective nor shall any work be commenced thereon, until the expiration of ten days following such posting.
Appendix J - Section J110 Added. Section J110.3, Erosion control, is added to Appendix J to read as follows:
J110.3 Erosion control. All work which will disturb the ground surface may be prohibited or stopped by the City Engineer and/or Building Official during times in which in his/her opinion there is a likelihood of rainfall causing damage to the site or to public or other private property. Projects not scheduled for completion prior to October 15th of any year, or started between October 15th and May 1st, must provide an interim drainage and erosion control plan for City approval. The approved controls must be installed by October 15th of any year.
When required by the City Engineer or Building Official, a deposit in an amount established by resolution of the City Council shall be paid to the Community Development Department at the time the building permit is issued. The purpose of this deposit is to guarantee that any damage resulting from storm water runoff will be promptly repaired. This deposit is in addition to any other deposit required under any City ordinance or resolution.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
Section R105.2 Amended. Section R105.2, Work exempt from permit, is amended as follows:
Exemptions listed in paragraphs 1 and 2 under the "Building" subsection are revised to read as follows:
1. One story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses, and similar uses, provided the floor area is not greater than 120 square feet and the structure contains no plumbing, electrical or heating appliances. The provisions of Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall apply to buildings and structures located in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) or any Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
2. Fences not over 6 feet high, except that concrete, masonry or stone fences in excess of 3 feet high shall require a building permit.
6. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below, and which are not part of an accessible route, or are not a part of the means of egress from a normally occupied building.
Section R105.7 Amended. Section R105.7 is amended by adding the following to the end:
A 'Notification of Building Permit Issuance' placard shall be issued to each building permit recipient, and said placard shall be prominently posted and displayed on the front of the building or structure where such building permit activity is to be conducted, and shall be clearly visible from the street or right-of-way and shall remain in place for the duration of the construction activity.
Section R202 Amended. Section R202, Definitions, is amended as follows:
The definition of "Grade Plane" is modified to read as follows:
GRADE PLANE. A reference plane representing the average of finished ground level adjoining the building at exterior walls. Where the finished ground level slopes away from the exterior walls, the reference plane shall be established by the lowest points within the area between the building and the lot line or, where the lot line is more than 5 feet from the building, between the building and a point 5 feet from the building.
The definition of "Kitchen" is deleted, and the definition of "Residential Kitchen" is added to read as follows:
RESIDENTIAL KITCHEN. An area in which the preparation of food for eating occurs that has provisions for cooking or heating of food, or washing and storing of dishware and utensils, or refrigeration or storing of food.
The definition of "Substantial Remodel" is added to read as follows:
SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. Substantial remodel shall mean the alteration of any structure which combined with any additions to the structure, affects a floor area which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the existing floor area of the structure within any 36 month period. When any changes are made in the building, such as walls, columns, beams or girders, floor or ceiling joists and coverings, roof rafters, roof diaphragms, foundations, piles or retaining walls or similar components, the floor area of all rooms affected by such changes shall be included in computing floor areas for purposes of applying this definition. This definition does not apply to the replacement and upgrading of residential roof coverings.
Section R309.1 Amended. Section R309.1, Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler system, is amended to read as follows:
R309.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler system. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in all of the following:
1. Every newly constructed building and facility.
Exceptions:
1. Free standing Group U Occupancies not more than 1,000 square feet and provided with exterior wall and opening protection meeting requirements in Section 705.5 and 705.9.
2. Agricultural buildings not exceeding 2,000 square feet, having clear unobstructed side yard of combustible materials, exceeding 60 feet in all directions and not exceeding 25 feet in height.
2. In all buildings that have more than fifty percent (50%) floor area added or any "substantial remodel" as defined in this code, within any 36-month period. Exceptions may be granted by the Fire Code Official when alternate means of protection are installed as approved by the Fire Code Official.
3. A change in the use of a structure that results in a higher fire or life safety exposure when the square footage of the area changing use is more than 50% of the square footage of the building.
This section does not require sprinklers to be added where prohibited by Cal. Gov't. Code § 66314(d)(12).
Section R309.1.1 Amended. Section R309.1.1, Design and installation, is amended to read as follows:
R313.1.1 Design and installation. All automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in accordance with the written standards of the Fire Code Official and the following:
a. In all townhomes required to be sprinkled. Any attached garages shall be sprinkled, and except for one- and two-family dwellings, in all residential occupancies the attics shall be sprinkled.
b. In all existing townhomes, where fire sprinklers are required by provisions of this code, they shall be extended into all unprotected areas of the building.
c. All townhomes in excess of 5,000 square feet shall have automatic fire sprinkler systems designed in accordance with NFPA Standard 13 or 13R and standards developed by the Fire Code Official.
d. If an existing townhouse is equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system, the automatic fire sprinkler system shall be extended to all areas of additions and alterations to the existing townhouse.
Section R309.2 Amended. Section R313.2, One- and two-family dwelling automatic fire sprinkler systems, is amended to read as follows:
R309.2. One- and two-family dwelling automatic fire sprinkler systems. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be installed in all of the following:
1. Every newly constructed building and facility.
Exceptions:
a. Free standing Group U Occupancies not more than 1,000 square feet and provided with exterior wall and opening protection meeting requirements in Section 705.5 and 705.9.
b. Agricultural buildings not exceeding 2,000 square feet, having clear unobstructed side yard of combustible materials, exceeding 60 feet in all directions and not exceeding 25 feet in height.
2. In all buildings that have more than fifty percent (50%) floor area added or any "substantial remodel" as defined in this code, within any 36-month period. Exceptions may be granted by the Fire Code Official when alternate means of protection are installed as approved by the Fire Code Official.
3. A change in the use of a structure that results in a higher fire or life safety exposure when the square footage of the area changing use is more than 50% of the square footage of the building.
This section does not require sprinklers to be added where prohibited by Cal. Gov't. Code § 66314(d)(12).
Section R309.2.1 Amended. Section R313.2.1, Design and installation, is amended to read as follows:
R313.2.1 Design and installation. All automatic fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in accordance with the written standards of the Fire Code Official and the following:
a. In all residential buildings required to be sprinkled any attached garages shall be sprinkled, and except for one- and two-family dwellings, in all residential occupancies the attics shall be sprinkled.
b. In all existing buildings, where fire sprinklers are required by provisions of this code, they shall be extended into all unprotected areas of the building.
c. All single-family dwellings in excess of 5,000 square feet shall have automatic fire sprinkler systems designed in accordance with NFPA Standard 13 or 13R and standards by the Fire Code Official.
d. If an existing one- or two-family dwelling is equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system, the automatic fire sprinkler system shall be extended to all areas of additions and alterations to the existing one- or two-family dwelling.
Section R902.1.2 Amended. Section R902.1.2, Roof coverings within all other areas, is amended to read as follows:
R902.1.2 Roof coverings within all other areas. The entire roof covering of every existing structure, where more than 50% of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be of a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least class A.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
Section 104.3.2 Amended.
Section 104.3.2, Plan Review Fees, is revised to delete the last two sentences.
Section 104.5 Amended. Section 104.5, Fees, is amended to read:
104.5 Fees. Fees shall be assessed in accordance with the provisions of this section and in amounts as adopted by resolution of the City Council.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
Section 104.3.2 Amended. Section 104.3.2, Plan review fees, is amended to delete the last sentence.
Section 104.5 Amended. Section 104.5, Fees, is amended to replace the first sentence to read as follows:
"Fees shall be assessed as established in a fee schedule adopted by the City Council."
Table 104.5 is deleted.
Section 104.5.2, Investigation fees, is amended to read as follows:
104.5.2 Investigation fees. Any person who commences any work on a plumbing system before obtaining the necessary permits may be subject to a fee for investigation in amount established by the City for that work and said fee shall be in addition to the normal permit fee. This fee shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. This provision shall not apply to emergency work when it is proved to the satisfaction of the Building Official that the work was urgently necessary and that it was not practical to obtain the required permit before commencement of the work. In all such emergency cases, a permit must be obtained as soon as it is practical to do so, and if there is an unreasonable delay in obtaining such permit, the investigation fees shall be charged, notwithstanding the earlier emergency.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
The 2025 California Energy Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 6, adopted by reference, is hereby amended as follows:
Section 100.0 – SCOPE – of Subchapter 1 – ALL OCCUPANCIES – GENERAL PROVISIONS – of the 2025 California Energy Code is amended to add a new subsection (i) as follows:
(i)
Single-Family Building Remodel Energy Reach Code. In addition to all requirements of the California Energy Code applicable to Existing Single-Family Building additions and alterations, the energy efficiency, renewable energy, and electric readiness measures specified in Section 150.0(w) shall be required for Covered Projects.
Section 100.1(b) – Definitions – of Subchapter 1 of the 2025 California Energy Code is amended by adding the following definition:
"Covered Project(s)" means additions or alterations, as described below, to a single family residential building originally permitted for construction on or before December 31, 2010, which equal or exceed 500 square feet of interior conditioned space. Any addition or alteration to the same structure in the preceding 36 months shall be counted towards the 500 square feet threshold, except those additions or alterations made prior to the initial adoption of this ordinance. When any changes are made in the building, such as walls, columns, beams or girders, floor or ceiling joists and coverings (subfloor and drywall), roof rafters, roof diaphragms, foundations, piles or retaining walls or similar components, the floor area of all rooms affected by such changes shall be included in computing floor areas for the purpose of applying this definition.
This definition does not apply to project scopes that are solely limited to any of the following: the replacement and upgrading of residential roof coverings, exterior wall finishes and/or floor finishes; alterations that add no more than 75 square feet of fenestration; alterations that add no more than 16 square feet of skylight area with a maximum U-factor of 0.55 and a maximum SHGC of 0.30; or alterations that are limited to providing access for persons with disabilities. A Covered Project shall not include a project that is considered to be a newly constructed building under the California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6. The final determination of whether a project meets the definition of a Covered Project shall be made by the Building Official or designee.
The first two paragraphs of Section 150.0 of Subchapter 7 – SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS – MANDATORY FEATURES AND DEVICES – are amended to read as follows:
Single-family residential buildings shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 150(a) through 150.0(w).
NOTE: The requirements of Sections 150.0(a) through 150.0(v) apply to newly constructed buildings. Sections 150.2(a) and 150.2(b) specify which requirements of Sections 150.0(a) through 150.0(v) also apply to additions or alterations. In addition, Covered Projects shall also be required to comply with Section 150.0(w).
Section (w) is added to Section 150.0 as follows:
A Covered Project shall install a set of measures based on building vintage from the Measure Menu in Table 1B to achieve a total Measure Point Score that is equal to or greater than the Target Score in Table 1A. In addition, all mandatory measures listed in Table 1B shall be installed. Installed measures shall meet the specifications in Table 2, List of Measure Specifications.
Building vintage is the year in which the original construction permit for the building was submitted, as documented by building department records, or the permit issue date of an addition or alteration that satisfied the Performance Standards (California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6, Section 150.1(b)) that were in effect at that time, whichever is later.
Exceptions to 150.0(w):
(x)
If a project is limited solely to a newly created attached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) as defined in the Sausalito Municipal Code, the project shall be exempt from complying with this Section. A newly created ADU and JADU shall include either additions or conversions of existing space. This exception DOES NOT apply to a Covered Project of an existing ADU or JADU.
(ii)
If a project occurs in a Mobile Home, Manufactured Housing, or Factory-built Housing as defined in Division 13 of the California Health and Safety twelve Code (commencing with Health and Safety Code Section 17000), the project shall be exempt from complying with this Section.
(iii)
If, due to conditions specific to the project, it is technically or economically infeasible to achieve compliance, the Building Official may reduce the Target Score and/or waive some or all the mandatory requirements.
(iv)
If the applicant demonstrates, using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Section 10-109(c) and Section 10-116, that the Energy Budget of the Proposed Building Design would be less than or equal to the Energy Budget of the building under the project if it included any set of measures that would achieve compliance under this Section, the project shall be exempt from complying with this Section.
(v)
If the applicant resides in the dwelling unit and demonstrates that they qualify for the California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE), or Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, or if the applicant is the owner of the dwelling unit which is occupied by a dependent who demonstrates that they qualify for the California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE), or Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program, the project may comply by installing, to the specifications in Table 2, the following measures:
(a)
E1: Lighting Measures; and
(b)
E2: Water Heating Package
Table 1A: Target Score
Pre-1978
1978-1991
Target Score
8
7
Table 1B: Measure Menu
ID
Measure
Pre-1978
1978-1991
E1
Lighting Measures
E2
Water Heating Package
2
2
E3
Air Sealing
2
1
E4
R-38 Attic Insulation
4
2
E5
Duct Sealing
3
2
E6
New Ducts + Ducts Sealing
6
4
E7
Windows
4
3
E8
R-15 Wall Insulation
5
—
E10
R-19/R-30 Raised Floor Insulation
9/10
9/10
FS1
Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Replacing Gas
12
12
FS2
High Efficiency Heat Pump Water Heater Replacing Gas
13
13
FS3
Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Replacing Electric
5
5
FS4
High Efficiency HPWH Replacing Electric
6
6
FS5
Heat Pump Space Heater
18
13
FS6
High Efficiency Pump Space Heater
19
14
FS8
Heat Pump Clothes Dryer
1
1
FS9
Induction Cooktop
1
1
PV1
Solar PV + EV Ready Pre-Wire
13
13
ER1
Electric Readiness – Service Upgrade
ER2
Electric Readiness – End Uses
The following conditions also apply to Table 1B:
1.
Unless otherwise specified, the requirements shall apply to the entire dwelling unit, not just the additional or altered portion.
2.
Measures from the Measure Menu in Table 1B and specified in Table 2, that already exist in the home, may be counted towards compliance with these requirements, unless otherwise specified in Table 2.
3.
Measures from the Measure Menu in Table 1B that are to be installed to satisfy requirements under the State Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6, may not be counted towards compliance with these requirements. Where these requirements conflict with other Energy Code requirements, the stricter requirements shall prevail.
Table 2: List of Measure Specifications.
ID
Measure Specification
Energy Measures
E1
Lighting Measures: Install lighting with an efficiency of 45 lumens per watt or greater in all interior and exterior screw-in fixtures. Install photocell, occupancy sensor or energy management system controls that meet the requirements of 150.0(k)3 in all outdoor lighting permanently mounted to a residential building or to other buildings on the same lot
E2
Water Heating Package: Insulate all accessible hot water pipes with pipe insulation a minimum of 3/4 inch thick. This includes insulating the supply pipe leaving the water heater, piping to faucets underneath sinks, and accessible pipes in attic spaces or crawlspaces. Upgrade fittings in sinks and showers to meet current California Green Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 11) Section 4.303 water efficiency requirements. Exception: Upgraded fixtures are not required if existing fixtures have rated or measured flow rates of no more than ten percent greater than 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 11) Section 4.303 water efficiency requirements.
E3
Air Sealing: Seal all accessible cracks, hotes, and gaps in the building envelope at walls, floors, and ceilings. Pay special attention to penetrations including plumbing, electrical, and mechanical vents, recessed can light luminaires, and windows. Weather-strip doors if not already present. Verification shall be conducted following a prescriptive checklist that outlines which building aspects need to be addressed by the permit applicant and verified by an inspector. Compliance can also be demonstrated with blower door testing conducted by a certified ECC Rater no more than three years prior to the permit application date that either: a) shows at least a 30 percent reduction from pre-retrofit conditions; or b) shows that the number of air changes per hour at 50 Pascals pressure difference (ACH50) does not exceed ten for Pre-1978 vintage buildings, seven for 1978 to 1991 vintage buildings. If combustion appliances are located within the pressure boundary of the building, conduct a combustion safety test by a certified ECC Rater or a professional certified by the Building Performance Institute, in accordance with the BPI Technical Standards for the Building Analyst Professional.
E4
R-38 Attic Insulation: Attic insulation shall be installed to achieve a weighted assembly U-factor of 0.025 or insulation installed at the ceiling level shall have a thermal resistance of R-38 or greater for the insulation alone. Recessed downlight luminaires in the ceiling shall be covered with insulation to the same depth as the rest of the ceiling. Luminaires not rated for insulation contact must be replaced or fitted with a fire-proof cover that allows for insulation to be installed directly over the cover. Exception: In buildings where existing R-30 is present and existing recessed downlight luminaires are not rated for insulation contact, insulation is not required to be installed over the luminaires.
E5
Duct Sealing: Air seal all space conditioning ductwork to meet the requirements of 2025 Title 24, Part 6, Section 150.2(b)1E. The duct system must be tested by an ECC Rater no more than three years prior to the Covered Project permit application date to verify the duct sealing and confirm that the requirements have been met. This measure may not be combined with the New Ducts and Duct Sealing measure in this Table. Exception: Buildings without ductwork or where the ducts are in conditioned space.
E6
New Ducts + Duct Sealing: Replace existing space conditioning ductwork with new R-6 ducts that meet the requirements of 2025 Title 24 Section 150.0(m)11. This measure may not be combined with the Duct Sealing measure in this Table. To qualify, a preexisting measure must have been installed no more than three years before the Covered Project permit application date.
E7
Windows: Replace at least 50% of existing windows with high performance windows with an area-weighted average U-factor no greater than 0.27.
E8
R-15 Wall Insulation: Install wall insulation in all exterior walls to achieve a weighted U-factor of 0.095 or install wall insulation in all exterior wall cavities that shall result in an installed thermal resistance of R-15 or greater for the insulation alone.
E10
R-19/R-30 Floor Insulation: Raised-floors shall be insulated such that the floor assembly has an assembly U-factor equal to or less than U-0.037/U0.028, or shall be insulated between wood framing with insulation having an R-value equal to or greater than R-19/R-30.
Fuel Substitution Measures
FS1
Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Replacing Gas: Replace existing natural gas water heater with a heat pump water heater that meets the requirements of Sections 110.3 and 150.2(b) 1.H.iii.b.
FS2
High Efficiency Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Replacing Gas: Replace existing natural gas water heater with a heat pump water heater with a Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) Tier 3 or higher rating that also meets the requirements of Sections 110.3 and 150.2(b)1.H.iii.c.
FS3
Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Replacing Electric: Replace existing electric resistance water heater with a heat pump water heater that meets the requirements of Sections 110.3 and 150.2(b)1.H.iii.b.
FS4
High Efficiency Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Replacing Electric: Replace existing electric resistance water heater with heat pump water heater with a Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) Tier 3 or higher rating that also meets the requirements of Sections 110.3, and 150.2(b)1.H.iii.c.
FS5
Heat Pump Space Heater: Replace all existing gas and electric resistance primary space heating systems with an electric-only heat pump system that meets the requirements of Sections 110.3, 150.2(b)1.C, 150.2(b)1.E, 150.2(b)1.F, and 150.2(b)1.G.
FS6
High Efficiency Heat Pump Space Heater: Replace all existing gas and electric resistance primary space heating systems with a system that meets the requirements of Sections 110.3 and 150.2(b)1.C, 150.2(b)1.E, 150.2(b)1.F, and 150.2(b)1.G and one of the following:
(i) A ducted electric-only heat pump system with a SEER2 rating of 16.5 or greater, an EER2 rating of 12.48 or greater and an HSPF2 rating of 9.5 or greater; or
(ii) A ductless mini-split heat pump system with a SEER2 rating of 14.3 or greater, an EER2 rating of 11.7 or greater and an HSPF2 rating of 7.5 or greater
FS8
Heat Pump Clothes Dryer: Replace all existing gas and electric resistance clothes dryers with heat pump dryers with no resistance element and cap the gas line(s).
FS9
Induction Cooktop: Replace all existing gas and electric resistance stove tops with inductive stove top(s) and cap the gas line(s).
Solar PV and Electric Readiness Measures
PV1
Solar PV + Electric Ready Pre-Wire: For New Solar PV Systems: Install a new solar PV system that meets the requirements of Section 150.1(c)14. In addition, upgrade the panelboard to meet the requirements of ER1 and install any two of the other measures from ER2.A - ER2.F.
For Existing PV Systems: If the home already has an existing solar PV system that meets the requirements of Section 150.1(c)14, to claim credit for this measure, PV1, upgrade the panelboard to meet the requirements of ER1 and install any two of the other measures from ER2.A - ER2.F.
ER1
Electric Readiness - Service Upgrade: Upgrade the panelboard serving the individual dwelling unit to provide circuit breaker spaces for a heat pump water heater, heat pump space heater, electric cooktop and electric clothes dryer with the capacities specified in Section 150.0 (n)1, (t), (u) and (v); or, provide electrical load calculations and appliance specifications for serving all of these end-uses with a minimum 100-amp panel.
ER2
Electric Readiness Measures - End Uses: For any covered project, if the service panel is being upgraded or to claim the Solar PV + Electric Ready Pre-Wire credit, satisfy any two of the electric readiness measures below. If the kitchen is being remodeled, make the range electric ready as specified in ER2, Item C below and upgrade the panelboard as specified under ER1. If the laundry room is being remodeled, make the dryer electric ready as specified in Item D below and upgrade the panelboard as specified under ER1.
Meet the requirements below, that otherwise apply to newly constructed buildings:
A. Heat Pump Water Heater Ready, as specified in Section 150.0(n)1.
B. Heat Pump Space Heater Ready, as specified in Section 150.0(t).
C. Electric Cooktop Ready, as specified in Section 150.0(u).
D. Electric Clothes Dryer Ready, as specified in Section 150.0(v).
E. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Ready, as specified in Section 150.0(s).
F. EV Charger Ready. Install a dedicated 208/240-volt branch circuit as specified in the California Green Building Code, Title 24, Part 11, Section A4.106.8.1, which otherwise applies to new construction.
Exception: If an electrical permit is not otherwise required for the project other than compliance with the laundry room and kitchen remodel requirements of this Item, ER2.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025; Ord. 05-2026, 4/21/2026)
The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7, adopted by reference, is hereby amended as follows:
101.2 Amended. Section 101.2, Scope, is amended to add the following sentence:
"In addition to the requirements of this code as adopted by the City of Sausalito, projects in the City of Sausalito are also subject to any local amendments promulgated by the Southern Marin Fire Protection District and ratified by the City Council of the City of Sausalito, a copy of which shall be on file with the Building Official."
101.3.1.1 Amended. Section 101.3.1.1, Application date and where required, is amended to read as follows:
101.3.1.1 Application date and where required. New buildings and substantial remodels located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Wildland-Urban Interface Area shall comply with this code, including all of the following areas: All unincorporated lands designated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection as State Responsibility Area (SRA) and Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) including:
Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.
Land within the City of Sausalito designated as a wildland-urban interface (WUI) area by the Southern Marin Fire Protection District or City of Sausalito.
Section 202 Amended. Section 202 of Chapter 2 is hereby amended by adding the following definition:
SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. Substantial Remodel shall mean the renovation of any structure, which combined with any additions to the structure, affects a floor area which exceeds fifty percent of the existing floor area of the structure within any 36 month period. When any changes are made in the building, such as walls, columns, beams or girders, floor or ceiling joists and coverings, roof rafters, roof diaphragms, foundations, piles or retaining walls or similar components, the floor area of all rooms affected by such changes shall be included in computing floor areas for the purposes of applying this definition. This definition does not apply to the replacement and upgrading of residential roof coverings.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
There are no local amendments to the California Fire Code. In addition to the requirements of this code as adopted by the City of Sausalito, projects in the City of Sausalito are also subject to any local amendments promulgated by the Southern Marin Fire Protection District and ratified by the City Council of the City of Sausalito, a copy of which shall be on file with the Building Official.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)
The 2025 California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), as published by the California Building Standards Commission in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11, adopted by reference, is hereby amended as follows:
Section 202 Amended. A definition of "substantial remodel" is hereby added to Section 202 to read as follows:
SUBSTANTIAL REMODEL. Any project or projects that affects the removal or replacement of 50% or more of the linear length of the existing exterior walls of the building, and/or 50% or more of the linear length of the existing exterior wall plate height is raised, and/or 50% or more of the existing roof framing area is removed or replaced, over a three-year period.
Sections 301.1 through 301.3 Amended. Sections 301.1 to 301.3 of Chapter 3 of the California Green Building Standards Code are amended to read:
301.1 Scope. Buildings shall be designed to include the green building measures specified as mandatory in the application checklists contained in this code and any applicable local amendments. In addition, the City requires the use of Voluntary Tiers, as provided in Appendix A4 and A5, for certain residential and non-residential new construction, additions, and alterations.
301.1.1 Residential additions and alterations. The mandatory provisions of Chapter 4 shall be applied to additions and/or alterations of existing residential buildings where the addition and/or alteration increases the building's conditioned area, volume, or size. The requirements shall apply only to and/or within the specific area of the addition or alteration, except that a substantial remodel shall be subject to the same provisions applicable to new construction.
Note: Repairs including, but not limited to, resurfacing, restriping, and repairing or maintaining existing light fixtures are not considered alterations for the purpose of this section.
Modified Tier 1 adopted (Residential). All residential building additions and/or alterations exceeding 500 square feet must meet CALGreen Chapter 4 Mandatory Measures and shall achieve Tier 1 status, as defined in Section A4.601, as applicable to the scope of work, excluding Division A4.2 "Energy Efficiency". A substantial remodel must meet CALGreen Chapter 4 Mandatory Measures and shall achieve Tier 1 status, as defined in Section A4.601, for the entire project, but excluding the requirements of Division A4.2 "Energy Efficiency." Normal maintenance, reroofing, painting or wall papering, and floor finishes are excluded for the purposes of establishing the scope of applicable CALGreen Chapter 4 Mandatory Measures and Tier 1 requirements.
301.2 Low-rise and high-rise residential buildings. The provisions of individual sections of CALGreen may apply to either low-rise residential buildings, high-rise residential buildings, or both. Individual sections will be designated by banners to indicate where the section applies specifically to low-rise only (LR) or high-rise only (HR). When the section applies to both low-rise and high-rise buildings, no banner will be used. All newly constructed and substantial remodel residential projects must meet CALGreen Chapter 4 Mandatory Measures, and shall achieve Tier 1 status, as defined in Section A4.601, as applicable to the scope of work, but excluding the requirements of Division A4.2 "Energy Efficiency."
301.3 Non-residential additions and alterations. The provisions of individual sections of Chapter 5 apply to building non-residential additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, and/or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or above (for occupancies within the authority of California Building Standards Commission). Code sections relevant to additions and alterations shall only apply to the portions of the building being added or altered within the scope of the permitted work.
A code section will be designated by a banner to indicate where the code section only applies to newly constructed buildings [N] or to additions and alterations [A]. When the code section applies to both, no banner will be used.
Modified Tier 1 adopted. Newly constructed non-residential buildings, as well as alterations and additions of 5,000 square feet or greater that include replacement of at least two of the following: HVAC system, building envelope, hot water system, or lighting system, must comply with CALGreen Chapter 5 Mandatory measures and achieve Tier 1 status as set forth in Section A5.601, as applicable to the scope of work, but excluding the requirements of Division A4.2 "Energy Efficiency."
Section 301.6 Added. Section 301.6, Low-carbon concrete requirements for all projects, is added to read as follows:
301.6 Low-carbon concrete requirements for all projects. Plain and reinforced concrete installed as part of any project subject to the application of this code shall demonstrate compliance with the requirements of Sausalito Municipal Code Chapter 8.04, Low Carbon Concrete Standards, the full text of which is herein added to this code by reference.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025; Ord. 05-2026, 4/21/2026)
A. 
Construction undertaken in violation of any of the provisions or requirements of this chapter shall be deemed a public nuisance and subject to abatement under any manner authorized by law, including provisions of this code. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
B. 
In addition to any other penalties that may be provided at law, any person, firm, corporation, or other entity violating any of the provisions of this chapter, or any of the provisions of the codes, as amended, adopted by reference in this chapter, is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $1,000 or by imprisonment not to exceed six months, or both, unless deemed an infraction by the citing officer or prosecuting attorney in the exercise of enforcement discretion. Penalties for offenses deemed an infraction shall be the maximum amounts authorized under Cal. Gov't. Code § 36900(c). In the discretion of the citing officer or prosecuting authority, penalties other than as set forth above may be applied to an offender for violations where a more specific penalty provision authorizes the imposition of such other penalty.
C. 
Every violation shall be deemed a separate offense for each day or portion thereof during which such violation continues.
D. 
In addition to the above applicable penalties, any and all portions of work completed without required permits shall, in addition to applicable permit requirements and fees, be subject to fees for any additional plan review required and plus additional inspection fees. Whenever work for which a permit is required by this chapter has been commenced without first obtaining the permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for such work. The fee for such special investigation shall be levied based on the fully burdened rates of the staff required to investigate and inspect construction performed without a permit. The investigation fee may be collected whether or not a permit is subsequently issued, and any applicable penalty shall also be paid prior to issuance of any permits for such work. The payment of such penalty and investigation fee shall not exempt an applicant from compliance with all other provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 09-2025, 11/4/2025)