Note: Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025 also repealed Ord. 962; Ord. 991; and Ord, 1024, 6/17/2025.
Unless otherwise provided in the chapter, all of the provisions and appendices of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition, inclusive of all of the inclusions and exclusions set forth in each chapter's matrix, are hereby adopted and shall apply in the city of Moreno Valley.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 101.4 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
101.4 Severability. If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this ordinance or the application thereof to any person or circumstances shall be held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the other provisions of this ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end, the provisions of this ordinance are hereby declared to be severable.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 102.5 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended as follows:
102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residential Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
A. 
Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 of this code shall apply.
B. 
Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.
C. 
Automatic fire sprinkler system requirements of this code shall apply to detached accessory buildings 3,600 square feet or greater in accordance with Section 903.2. The provisions contained in Section 903.2.18 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition or Section R317.5.1 of the California Residential Code may be used for the design of the automatic fire sprinkler system for detached private garages.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 102.13 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add Section 102.13.1 as follows:
102.13.1 Application of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. Where a conflict exists between the provisions of the Moreno Valley Fire Code 2025 Edition and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, the more restrictive provisions shall apply.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 104.1 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add Section 104.1.1 as follows:
104.1.1 Authority of the Fire Chief and Fire Department.
A. 
The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized and directed to enforce all applicable State fire laws and provisions of this ordinance and to perform such duties as directed by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.
B. 
The Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee is authorized to administer, interpret and enforce this ordinance. Under the Fire Chief, Chief Deputy, or their designee's direction, the Riverside County Fire Department is authorized to enforce ordinances of Riverside County pertaining to the following:
2.1.
The prevention of fires
2.2.
The suppression or extinguishment of dangerous or hazardous fires
2.3.
The storage, use and handling of hazardous materials.
2.4.
The installation and maintenance of automatic, manual and other private fire alarm systems and fire extinguishing equipment.
2.5.
The maintenance and regulation of fire escapes.
2.6.
The maintenance of fire protection and the elimination of fire hazards on land, in buildings, structures and other property, including those under construction
2.7.
The maintenance of means of egress
2.8.
The investigation of the cause, origin and circumstances of fire and unauthorized releases of hazardous materials
C. 
The following persons are hereby authorized to interpret and enforce the provisions of this ordinance and to make arrests and issue citations as authorized by law:
3.1.
The Unit Chief, Peace Officers and Public Officers of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
3.2.
The Fire Chief Peace Officers and Public Officers of the Riverside County Fire Department
3.3.
The Riverside County Sheriff and any deputy sheriff.
3.4.
The Police Chief and any police officer of any city served by the Riverside County Fire Department
3.5.
Officers of the California Highway Patrol.
3.6.
Code Officers of the City of Moreno Valley Community Enhancement & Neighborhood Services Divisions.
3.7.
Peace Officers of the California Department of Parks and Recreation
3.8.
The law enforcement officer of the Federal Bureau of Land Management
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 104.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted and replaced with the following:
104.2 Determination of compliance. The Fire Code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to develop policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, and information bulletins in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies, procedures:
A. 
Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code
B. 
Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code
C. 
Shall be enforceable as part of this code
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Sections 104.8 and 104.8.1 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition are deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:
104.8 Liability. Any liability against City of Moreno Valley or any officer or employee for damages resulting from the discharge of their duties shall be as provided by law.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 104 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 104.12 as follows:
104.12 Authority of the Fire Chief to close hazardous fire areas. Except upon National Forest Land, the Fire Chief is authorized to determine and announce the closure of any hazardous fire area or portion thereof. Any closure by the Fire Chief for a period of more than fifteen (15) calendar days must be approved by the City Council within fifteen (15) calendar days of the Fire Chief's original order of closure. Upon such closure, no person shall go in or be upon any hazardous fire area, except upon the public roadways and inhabited areas. During such closure, the Fire Chief shall erect and maintain at all entrances to the closed area sufficient signs giving notice of closure. This section shall not prohibit residents or owners of private property within any closed area, or their invitees, from going in or being upon their lands. This section shall not apply to any entry, in the course of duty, by a peace officer, duly authorized public officer or fire department personnel. For the purpose of this section, "hazardous fire area" shall mean public or private land that is covered with grass, grain, brush or forest and situated in a location that makes suppression difficult resulting in great damage. Such areas are designated on Hazardous Fire Area maps filed with the office of the Fire Chief.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 108.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Fees for services and permits shall be as set forth in the Moreno Valley Fee Schedule as adopted by City Council.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 108 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 108.7 as follows:
108.7 Cost recovery. Fire suppression, investigation, rescue or emergency medical costs are recoverable in accordance with Health and Safety Code Sections 13009 and 13009.1, as may be amended from time to time. Additionally, any person who negligently, intentionally or in violation of law causes an emergency response, including, but not limited to, a traffic accident, spill of toxic or flammable fluids or chemicals is liable for the costs of securing such emergency, including those costs pursuant to Government Code Section 53150, et seq, as may be amended from time to time. Any expense incurred by the Riverside County Fire Department or City of Moreno Valley for securing such emergency shall constitute a debt of such person and shall be collectable by Riverside County in the same manner as in the case of an obligation under contract, express or implied.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 112.1 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
112.1 Board of appeals established. The Board of Appeals shall be the City Council. If it is determined an outside board is needed, the City Council shall designate an outside hearing officer to hear the appeal. The Fire Chief shall be notified of any appeal and the Fire Chief or designee shall be in attendance at the appeal hearing. Depending on the subject of the appeal, specialized expertise may be solicited, at the expense of the applicant, for the purpose of providing input to the Appeals Board.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 113.4 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
113.4 Violation and penalties. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, or association of persons to violate any provision of this ordinance, or to violate the provisions of any permit granted pursuant to this code. Punishments and penalties for violations shall be in accordance with the Moreno Valley Municipal Code, City fee schedule, and Health and Safety Code Sections 17995 through 17995.5.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 202 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
202 Definition of Fire Chief. The Fire Chief of Riverside County or the Fire Chief's designee.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 308.1.7 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
308.1.7 Sky lanterns or similar devices. A person shall not release or cause to be released a sky lantern or similar device.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 503 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Sections 503.1.2.1, 503.6.1 and 503.7 and delete and replace Sections 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 as follows:
503.1.2.1 Remoteness. Unless otherwise approved, where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.
503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 24 feet (7,315 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4,115 mm). For additional requirements or alternatives see Riverside County Fire Department Standards and Policies, as may be amended from time to time.
503.2.2 Authority. The Fire Code official shall be the only authority authorized to designate fire apparatus access roads and fire lanes and to modify the minimum fire lane access widths for fire or rescue operations.
503.6.1 Automatic opener. New motorized gates shall be provided with means to be automatically opened remotely by emergency vehicle in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department Standards and Policies, as may be amended from time to time.
Exception: Gates serving individual one- and two-family dwelling parcels.
503.7 Loading areas and passenger drop-off areas. On private properties, where fire apparatus access roads are utilized for loading or unloading or utilized for passenger drop-off or pick-up, an additional eight (8) feet of width shall be added to the minimum required width for the fire apparatus access road.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 507 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Sections 507.5.7 and 507.5.8 as follows:
507.5.7 Fire hydrant size and outlets. As determined by the Fire Code official, fire hydrant sizes and outlets shall be based on the following:
A. 
Residential Standard - one (1) four (4) inch outlet and one (1) two and half (2 1/2) inch outlet.
B. 
Super Hydrant Standard - one (1) four (4) inch outlet and two (2) two and one half (2 1/2) inch outlets.
C. 
Super Hydrant Enhanced - two (2) four (4) inch outlets and one (1) two and one half (2 1/2) inch outlet.
507.5.8 Fire hydrant street marker. Fire hydrant locations shall be visually indicated in accordance with Riverside County Fire Department Guidelines, as may be amended from time to time. Any hydrant marker damaged or removed during the course of street construction or repair shall be immediately replaced by the contractor, developer, or person responsible for removal or damage.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
A. 
Sections 508.1 and 508.1.1 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in their entirety and replaced with the following:
508.1 General. Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by the California Building Code, in all buildings greater than 300,000 square feet (27,870 m2), and in Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided and shall comply with Sections 508.1.1 through 508.1.7.
508.1.1 Location and access. The fire command center shall be located adjacent to the main lobby and shall be accessible from fire department vehicular access or as approved by the Fire Code official. The room shall have direct access from the building exterior at the lowest level of fire department access.
B. 
Section 508.1.3 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended as follows:
508.1.3 Size. The fire command center shall be not less than 0.015 percent of the total building area of the facility served or 200 square feet (19 m2) in area, whichever is greater, with a minimum dimension of 0.7 times the square root of the room area or 10 feet (3,048 mm), whichever is greater. Where a fire command center is solely required because a building is greater than 300,000 square feet (27,870 m2), the fire command center shall have a minimum size of 96 square feet (9 m2) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2,438 mm) where approved by the Fire Code official.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 509 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 509.2.1 as follows:
509.2.1 Minimum clearances. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of exterior fire protection system control valves, or any other exterior fire protection system component that may require immediate access, except as otherwise required or approved.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 608.11.1.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
608.11.1.2 Manual operation. When required by the Fire Code official, automatic crossover valves shall be capable of manual operation. The manual valves shall be located in an approved location immediately outside of the machinery room in a secure metal box or equivalent and marked as Emergency Controls.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 903.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
903.2 Where required.
A. 
In all new buildings and structures which are 3,600 square feet or greater, an approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided regardless of occupancy classification. Where the Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.21 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition require more restrictive requirements than those listed below, the more restrictive requirement shall take precedence.
B. 
Existing Buildings. Notwithstanding any applicable provisions of this code, an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided in an existing building when an addition occurs and when one of the following conditions exists:
1. 
When an addition is 33% or more of the existing building area, and the resulting building area exceeds 3,600 square feet (465 m2) as defined in Section 202; or
2. 
When an addition exceeds 1,500 square feet (186 m2) and the resulting building area exceeds 3,600 square feet (465 m2) as defined in Section 202.
C. 
One- and two-family dwellings shall have an automatic fire sprinkler system regardless of square footage in accordance with the California Residential Code. Fire sprinkler systems shall be installed in mobile homes, manufactured homes, and multifamily manufactured homes with two dwelling units in accordance with Title 25 of the California Code of Regulations.
Exceptions: Unless required elsewhere in this code or the California Building Code, automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be required for the following:
1. 
Detached Group U occupancies used for agricultural purposes constructed in accordance with the California Building Code.
2. 
Detached non-combustible equestrian arena shade canopies that are open on all sides and used for riding only - no commercial, assembly or storage uses.
3. 
Non-combustible fueling station canopies not exceeding 10,000 square feet.
4. 
Detached fabric or non-combustible shade structures that are open on all sides and used to shade playground equipment, temporary storage of vehicles and dining areas with no cooking.
5. 
Where determined by the Fire Chief that no major life safety hazard exists, and the fuel load does not pose a significant threat to firefighter safety or to other structures or property, automatic fire sprinklers may be exempted.
The following exceptions in the California Fire Code 2025 Edition shall not be allowed:
a. 
Exception in Section 903.2.3.
b. 
Exception in Section 903.2.11.3.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 903 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 903.3.5.3 as follows:
903.3.5.3 Hydraulically calculated systems. The design of hydraulically calculated fire sprinkler systems shall not exceed 90% of the water supply capacity.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 904.2.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 904.2.2.1 as follows:
904.2.2.1 Activation of the Fire Alarm System. Where a fire alarm signaling system, or a Dedicated Function Fire Alarm System is serving the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the actuation of the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72. If a fire alarm signaling system or dedicated function fire alarm system is not present, one will be required to be installed to provide monitoring for the fire extinguishing system.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 3206 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 3206.4.2 as follows:
3206.4.2 Minimum requirements for client leased or occupant owned warehouses. Designs of an automatic sprinkler system for client leased or occupant owned buildings containing high pile storage shall be based on the requirements of NFPA 13. Unless otherwise approved a Professional Engineer, licensed in the State of California shall perform a survey of the building to determine commodity classification, storage configuration, building height and other information related to the development of an appropriate sprinkler system design. The engineer shall also make reasonable efforts to meet with the building owner or operator to understand seasonal or customer related fluctuations to the stored commodities, storage height, and configuration. The sprinkler design shall be based on the most demanding requirements determined through the onsite survey and discussions with the building owner or operator. The technical report shall describe the basis for determining the commodity and sprinkler design selection, how the commodities will be isolated or separated, and include references to the design document(s). If a specific fire test is used as the basis of design, a copy of the fire test report shall be provided at the time of plan review.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Chapter 41 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 4107 as follows:
4107 MOBILE FOOD PREPARATION VEHICLES
4107.1 General. Mobile food preparation vehicles that are equipped with appliances that produce smoke or grease-laden vapors shall comply with this section.
4107.2 Maintenance. Maintenance of systems on mobile food preparation vehicles shall be in accordance with Sections 4107.2.1 through 4107.2.3.
4107.2.1 Exhaust system. The exhaust system, including hood, grease-removal devices, fans, ducts, and other appurtenances, shall be inspected and cleaned in accordance with Section 606.3.
4107.2.2 Fire protection systems and devices. Fire protection systems and devices shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.6.
4107.2.3 Fuel gas systems. LP-gas containers installed on the vehicle and fuel-gas piping systems shall be inspected annually by an approved inspection agency or a company that is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation to requalify LP-gas cylinders, to ensure that system components are free from damage, suitable for the intended service and not subject to leaking. CNG containers shall be inspected every 3 years in a qualified service facility. CNG containers shall not be used past their expiration date as listed on the manufacturer's container label. Upon satisfactory inspection, the approved inspection agency shall affix a tag on the fuel gas system or within the vehicle indicating the name of the inspection agency and the date of satisfactory inspection.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section 5608 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section 5608.2 as follows:
5608.2 Fallout Area. For aerial shells, the minimum required radius of the fallout area shall be 100 ft/in. (22 m/25 mm) of the internal mortar diameter of the largest aerial shell to be fired, unless otherwise approved.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section B103.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended to add new Section B103.2.1 as follows:
B103.2.1 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Subdivisions. The minimum fire flow for any new subdivision or tract constructed within a Wildland-Urban Interface Area shall be 1,500 gallons per minute.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Table B105.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is amended as follows:
TABLE B105.2
REQUIRED FIRE-FLOW FOR BUILDINGS OTHER THAN ONE-AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS GROUP R.3 AND R-4 BUILDINGS AND TOWNHOUSES
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
(Design Standard)
MINIMUM FIRE-FLOW
(gallons per minute)
FLOW DURATION
(hours)
No automatic sprinkler system
Value in Table B105.1(2)
Duration in Table B105.1(2)
Section 903.3.1.1 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition
50% of the value in Table B105.1(2)a
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the reduced flow rate
Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition
50% of the value in Table B105.1(2)b
Duration in Table B105.1(2) at the reduced flow rate
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
a.
The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,000 gallons per minute.
b.
The reduced fire-flow shall be not less than 1,500 gallons per minute.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)
Section C103.1 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:
C103.1 Hydrant spacing. Fire apparatus access roads and public streets providing required access to buildings in accordance with Section 503 of the California Fire Code 2025 Edition shall be provided with one or more fire hydrants, as determined by Section C102.1. Where more than one fire hydrant is required, the distance between required fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Sections C103.2 and C103.3. Fire hydrants shall be provided at street intersections.
(Ord. 1033, 11/4/2025)