CHAPTER XII

TAXICABS

Subject Article

Definitions 01

License Requirements 02

Certificate of Public Convenience 03

Driver Requirements 04

General Requirements 05

ARTICLE 01 – Back to top

DEFINITIONS
 

SECTION:

12.01.01: Definitions

12.01.01: DEFINITIONS:

The following words and phrases, when used in this Chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this Section:

DRIVER: Any person to whom a permit has been issued under this Chapter to drive a taxicab.

OWNER: Any person licensed under this Chapter to operate a taxicab stand and taxicabs in the City.

TAXICAB: Any vehicle used for the transportation of passengers for compensation fixed by a taximeter in accordance with the distance traveled and/or the time elapsed and not operated over a fixed route.

TAXIMETER: A mechanical or electrical instrument or device by which the compensation for the use of a taxicab is mechanically or electronically calculated, registered and indicated by means of figures in accordance with the distance traveled and/or the time elapsed.

TAXISTAND: A marked location on a City street or thoroughfare or on a parking area in the City from which persons may hire a taxicab. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

ARTICLE 02 – Back to top

LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
 

SECTION:

12.02.01: License Required

12.02.02: Application

12.02.03: Other Prerequisites

12.02.04: Issuance or Denial

12.02.05: Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity

12.02.06: Business License Required !2R!
 

12.02.01: LICENSE REQUIRED:

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or cause to be operated in the City any taxicab stand unless a license therefor has been issued pursuant to this Chapter. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
12.02.02: APPLICATION:

Any person may apply for a license to operate a taxicab stand and taxicabs in the City by filing with the City Clerk an application, provided by the City, and paying an application service fee of fifty dollars ($50.00).

All applications shall contain the following information:

A. The name and address of the applicant.

B. Such other information as the Police Chief shall require for a background investigation of the applicant.

C. The location of the proposed taxicab stands, if any.

D. How many taxicabs are proposed to be operated in the City.

E. The taxicab color scheme.

F. The owner's trade name, monogram or insignia.

G. The type and trade name of the taximeter installed in each taxicab.

H. The size, location and wording of signs to be used on each taxicab. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
12.02.03: OTHER PREREQUISITES:

The applicant shall show on the application or otherwise demonstrate to the City Manager the following:

A. Color Scheme and Markings: That all taxicabs operated are or will be of a like color scheme and bear or will bear the owner's trade name, monogram or insignia, clearly and easily distinguishable from the color scheme, trade name, monogram or insignia used on the taxicabs of any other person lawfully operating taxicabs over the streets of the City.

B. Identification: That all taxicabs shall bear the taxicab number and the owner's telephone number(s) painted on the outside of at least one door on each side of the taxicab and the outside rear of the taxicab. All letters and figures mentioned in this subsection shall be not less than two and one-fourth inches (2¹/₄") in height and not less than five-sixteenth inch (⁵/₁₆") in stroke. All identification shall be in letters and numbers readily understandable by the general public. No taxicab shall bear any mark of identification, sign or advertisement other than specified herein.

C. Taximeter Requirements: That all taxicabs are equipped with or will be equipped with a taximeter which will correctly and accurately compute and indicate the distance traveled and/or time elapsed and which shall be affixed to the taxicab in such manner that the reading dial showing the amount to be and being charged shall be readily discernible from the passenger compartment during all times that such taximeter is operating.

D. Insurance Requirements: That the applicant has secured and paid in advance the annual premium on a policy of insurance jointly insuring the owner and each driver of the taxicabs against personal injury or property damage liability. The liability coverage shall be in an amount of not less than one million dollars ($1,000,000.00) per occurrence, combined single limit. The owner shall also show proof of workers' compensation insurance in amounts prescribed by State law. The applicant shall file an endorsement of said insurance policies with the City Manager. Said endorsement shall provide that the policy shall not be cancelled by the insurer until the City has been provided with thirty (30) days' prior written notice of such cancellation.

E. Financial Report: That the applicant has sufficient financial resources to operate the taxicab service. Such proof shall include the three (3) most recent years' certified financial statements or, if a new business, a certified statement of the applicant's financial condition.

F. Background Investigation: That the person(s) applying for a license have had a criminal background investigation completed by the Police Chief, and the Police Chief has certified that the applicant(s) have no criminal record that would be a potential threat to the community so as to preclude the City from issuing the license. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.02.04: ISSUANCE OR DENIAL:

Upon showing fulfillment of all requirements contained in Section 12.02.03 of this Article to the satisfaction of the City Manager, the City Manager shall issue the taxistand license. The locations of the taxistands shall be subject to the approval of the City Manager.

If the owner is unable or unwilling to fulfill the requirements contained herein, the application shall be denied, and there shall be no refund of any application fees paid to the City. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.02.05: CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY:

Each applicant for a taxicab stand license, in addition to the requirements herein, shall obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity pursuant to Article 03 of this Chapter. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.02.06: BUSINESS LICENSE REQUIRED:

Prior to beginning any taxicab service pursuant to this Chapter, the owner shall apply for and obtain a City business license as provided for in this Code. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

ARTICLE 03 – Back to top

CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE

SECTION:

12.03.01: Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity

12.03.02: Application

12.03.03: Public Hearing

12.03.04: Council Hearing

12.03.05: Issuance of Certificate

12.03.06: Business License Required

12.03.07: Transfer of Certificates

12.03.08: Duration of Certificates

12.03.09: Discontinuance of Service Automatically Cancels Certificate

12.03.10: Suspension or Revocation of Certificates

12.03.11: Suspension or Revocation Hearing

12.03.12: Surrender of Certificate

12.03.13: Sale or Transfer of Business !2R!

12.03.01: CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY:

It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the business of operating any taxicab in the City without first having obtained from the City a certificate of public convenience and necessity. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.03.02: APPLICATION:

All persons applying for a certificate of public convenience and necessity shall file with the City Clerk a sworn application containing all information required in Sections 12.02.02 and 12.02.03 of this Chapter.

All applications shall be accompanied by a fee of fifty dollars ($50.00); provided, however, that an applicant also requesting operation of a taxicab stand shall be required to pay only one application fee. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89; 1994 Code)
 

12.03.03: PUBLIC HEARING:

Upon receipt of a fully completed application for a certificate of public convenience and necessity to engage in the business of operating a taxicab on the public streets and thoroughfares of the City and completion of the background investigation, the City Clerk shall set a time not sooner than fifteen (15) days nor more than forty five (45) days thereafter for the hearing of said application before the City Council.

Written notice of each hearing shall be given to all persons to whom certificates of public convenience and necessity for operation of a taxicab have been heretofore issued. Due notice of the time and place of the public hearing before the City Council shall be given to the general public by publication in a local newspaper of general circulation. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.03.04: COUNCIL HEARING:

The City Council shall issue a certificate of public convenience and necessity if the Council finds, following the hearing, that the public convenience and necessity requires the proposed service and that the following conditions exist:

A. That the applicant is financially responsible and that the officers of said applicant are of good moral character.

B. That the applicant has complied with the provisions of all City, State and Federal laws applicable to the proposed operations.

C. That the service requested will not result in a hazard to the public.

D. That the vehicles described in the application and proposed to be used are adequate and safe for the purpose intended.

E. That all the information contained in the application has been verified as true, correct and sufficient.

F. That the applicant is fit, willing and able to perform such public transportation and to conform to the provisions of the City Code and all rules promulgated by the City Manager. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.03.05: ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE:

The certificate of public convenience and necessity shall specifically designate the number of taxicabs authorized by the certificate. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.03.06: BUSINESS LICENSE REQUIRED:

All persons receiving a certificate of public convenience and necessity shall obtain a City business license pursuant to Section 11.05.08 of this Code prior to beginning business within the City. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.03.07: TRANSFER OF CERTIFICATES:

No certificate of public convenience and necessity may be sold, assigned, mortgaged or otherwise transferred without the consent of the City Council. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.03.08: DURATION OF CERTIFICATES:

The initial certificate of public convenience and necessity issued hereunder to any applicant shall be for a period of one year, at the end of which time the certificate holder may reapply for a new certificate. Every certificate issued, other than as an initial certificate, shall be for a period of ten (10) years. All certificates are subject to revocation in the manner prescribed herein. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.03.09: DISCONTINUANCE OF SERVICE AUTOMATICALLY CANCELS CERTIFICATE:

After the service for which a certificate is granted hereunder is discontinued or if the owner transfers ownership of the business or discontinues the service for a period of forty five (45) days, the certificate shall be automatically null and void and shall be reissued only in accordance with the provisions hereof for a new certificate. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.03.10: SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATES:

A certificate issued under the provisions of this Article may be suspended or revoked at any time by the City Council if the holder thereof has:

A. Violated any of the provisions of this Code;

B. Violated any laws of the City or of the State or of the United States, the violations of which reflect unfavorably on the fitness of the holder to offer public transportation. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.03.11: SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION HEARING:

Upon being informed that sufficient justification exists to suspend or revoke a certificate of public convenience and necessity, the City Council shall fix a time and place for a public hearing thereon. At least ten (10) days' written notice setting forth the grounds for suspension or revocation and information regarding the time and place where such hearing will be held shall be given to the holder of the certificate in question and to all other holders of valid certificates. Notice of the time and place of such public hearing before the City Council shall be given as required by law. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89; 1994 Code)

12.03.12: SURRENDER OF CERTIFICATE:

If the City Council finds that sufficient justification does exist for the suspension or revocation of a certificate, then the Council shall, by resolution, demand that such certificate be surrendered to the City Manager. Certificates which have been suspended or revoked by the City Council shall forthwith be surrendered to the City Manager, and the holder shall not permit operation of any taxicabs covered by such certificate. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.03.13: SALE OR TRANSFER OF BUSINESS:

A potential buyer or other transferee of a business for which the City Council has issued a certificate of public convenience and necessity must make application to the City for a new certificate pursuant to Section 12.03.02 herein. The holder and transferor of the certificate must file an affidavit of intention to surrender and cancel the existing certificate and licenses conditionally upon and concurrently with the consummation of sale and issuance of a new certificate and licenses in the name of the transferee.

If the transferee meets the requirements set forth herein for the issuance of a certificate of public convenience and necessity, the Council shall issue a new certificate to the buyer and, concurrently herewith, shall cancel the transferor's certificate.

The transferor may not operate a taxicab covered by the certificate in the City until a certificate has been issued to the transferor. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

ARTICLE 04 – Back to top

DRIVER REQUIREMENTS
 

SECTION:

12.04.01: Permit Required

12.04.02: Application

12.04.03: Background Investigation

12.04.04: Issuance or Denial

12.04.05: Permit Fee

12.04.06: Duration of Permit

12.04.07: Suspension or Revocation

12.04.08: Appeal

12.04.09: Waiver of Application Requirements !2R!

12.04.01: PERMIT REQUIRED:

It shall be unlawful for any person to drive in the City any taxicab for the purpose of pickup or soliciting riders unless a driver's permit has been issued to such person pursuant to this Article. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.04.02: APPLICATION:

Any driver intending to operate a taxicab in the City shall apply for a permit to do so by filing with the City Clerk an application, upon a form provided by the City, and paying an application fee of twenty five dollars ($25.00).

All applications shall contain the following information:

A. The name and address of the applicant.

B. Certification that the applicant is at least twenty one (21) years of age.

C. Certification that the applicant has never been convicted in the courts of any state of the United States, nor in any Federal court of any of the following offenses:

1. Driving a motor vehicle in a reckless manner or while under the influence of alcohol or any drug.

2. Pandering.

3. Using, possessing, selling or transporting narcotics or intoxicating liquors.

4. Imparting knowledge for the obtaining of narcotics or intoxicating liquors.

5. Assault or battery.

6. Any law or ordinance involving moral turpitude.
D. Certification that the driver has not had a drivers license revoked for moving violations.

E. Certification that the driver has the required permits to operate a motor vehicle within the State. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.04.03: BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:

The Police Department shall take a photograph and fingerprints and conduct an investigation of the applicant. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)
 

12.04.04: ISSUANCE OR DENIAL:

Upon meeting all requirements of Sections 12.04.02 and 12.04.03 of this Article and receiving a statement from the Police Chief that the applicant has not been convicted of a crime listed in Section 12.04.02 of this Article, the City shall issue the permit applied for upon payment of the permit fee required herein.

If the applicant is unable or unwilling to fulfill the requirements contained herein or if the applicant's background shows reasonable cause that the issuance of a permit would be to the detriment of the community, the City Manager shall deny the application.

There shall be no refund of the application fee. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.04.05: PERMIT FEE:

Each person for whom an application for a driver permit has been approved shall first pay the fee of twenty five dollars ($25.00) for each calendar year or portion thereof. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.04.06: DURATION OF PERMIT:

Each driver permit issued pursuant to this Chapter shall be valid only during the calendar year for which it was issued. Said permit may be renewed for a calendar year upon payment of the fee provided for in Section 12.04.05 of this Article. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.04.07: SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION:

Any driver permit issued pursuant to this Chapter may be suspended for a period of up to six (6) months or revoked by the Police Chief for cause, following written notice and an opportunity for hearing given to the permittee. Cause shall include conviction of any of the crimes listed in Section 12.04.02 herein. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89; 1994 Code)
 

12.04.08: APPEAL:

The driver may appeal to the City Manager the decision of the Police Chief denying, revoking or suspending a license within ten (10) days. The driver shall state, in writing, the reasons supporting the appeal.

The City Manager shall hold a hearing with the driver to discuss the merits of the action and, after the hearing, may restore the permit or uphold the suspension, revocation or denial. The decision of the City Manager shall be final. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.04.09: WAIVER OF APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

An applicant driving a taxicab normally stationed outside the City need not comply with the application requirements of Sections 12.04.02 and 12.04.03 herein if the applicant submits evidence of current licensing by the County of Los Angeles or by another City in the County of Los Angeles. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

ARTICLE 05 – Back to top

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
 

SECTION:

12.05.01: Driver Identification

12.05.02: Taxicab Inspections

12.05.03: Direct Route to be Taken

12.05.04: Defrauding Owner or Driver !2R!
 

12.05.01: DRIVER IDENTIFICATION:

Every owner operating a taxicab pursuant to this Chapter shall cause to be placed in a conspicuous place in the passenger compartment of each taxicab and to be kept placed therein at all times during the operation thereof, a device in which there shall be visibly displayed a current and clear photograph of the driver, together with the name of the driver and the driver's permit number in legible letters not less than one-half inch (¹/₂") in height. It shall be unlawful for any driver to operate or for any owner to allow or permit the operation of any taxicab not meeting the provision of this Section. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.05.02: TAXICAB INSPECTIONS:

Any police officer of the City shall have the right, at all times, to inspect any taxicab or portion thereof which is operated under the provisions of this Chapter. It shall be unlawful for any owner or any driver to interfere with or prevent such inspection. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.05.03: DIRECT ROUTE TO BE TAKEN:

Any driver employed to carry any passenger to a definite point shall take the most direct route which will carry the passenger safely and expeditiously to such destination. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

12.05.04: DEFRAUDING OWNER OR DRIVER:

It shall be unlawful for any person to hire a taxicab of any owner with the intent to defraud such owner or the driver thereof or for any person in the use of such a taxicab to defraud the owner or the driver thereof. (Ord. 953, 3-15-89)

CHAPTER XIII

BICYCLES

Subject Article

General 01

Bicycle License 02

ARTICLE 01 – Back to top

GENERAL

SECTION:

13.01.01: Purchase from Minors

13.01.02: Riding, Damaging without Owner's Permission

13.01.03: Riding on Sidewalks

13.01.04: Blocking Sidewalk !2R!

13.01.01: PURCHASE FROM MINORS:

It shall be unlawful for any person engaged in the business of buying, selling, exchanging or trading in new or used bicycles to purchase a secondhand bicycle or any bicycle part from a person under eighteen (18) years of age. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)

13.01.02: RIDING, DAMAGING WITHOUT OWNER'S PERMISSION:

A. It shall be unlawful for any person to maliciously or wilfully, without authority of the owner, remove, destroy, mutilate, alter, ride or tamper with any bicycle or any part thereof.

B. It shall be unlawful for any person to remove, destroy, mutilate, alter or tamper with any license plate, seal or registration card issued in connection with a bicycle. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)
 

13.01.03: RIDING ON SIDEWALKS:

It shall be unlawful for any individual to ride a bicycle on a City sidewalk where such action is prohibited by a posted sign. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)
 

13.01.04: BLOCKING SIDEWALK:

It shall be unlawful for any individual to place a bicycle upon a public sidewalk in such a manner that any portion of the sidewalk is blocked to pedestrians. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)

ARTICLE 02  - Back to top

BICYCLE LICENSE

SECTION:

13.02.01: License Required

13.02.02: Application

13.02.03: Inspection and Registration

13.02.04: Duration

13.02.05: License Records

13.02.06: Suspension of Registration

13.02.07: Appeal
 

13.02.01: LICENSE REQUIRED:

It shall be unlawful for any person to operate or use a bicycle, propelled wholly or in part by human power, upon any street, public path or way in the City without first obtaining a City license therefor. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)
 

13.02.02: APPLICATION:

A. Application for a bicycle license shall be made to the City Manager Department of the City, upon a form provided by the City, shall be signed by the applicant or parent or legal guardian and shall contain the name, date of birth, address and telephone number of the applicant and a complete description of the bicycle.

B. The license fee shall be six dollars ($6.00) for each bicycle for which a bicycle license is issued. For each transfer of registration certificate, the fee shall be one dollar ($1.00). For each replacement of a bicycle license or registration certificate, the fee shall be one dollar ($1.00). (Ord. 976, 3-14-90; 1994 Code)
 

13.02.03: INSPECTION AND REGISTRATION:

Upon completion of the application form and payment of the fee required by subsection 13.02.02B of this Article, a receipt shall be issued authorizing the Fire Department to inspect the applicant's bicycle and to issue a registration card and license tag, plate or seal which is to be attached to the bicycle by the Fire Department. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)

13.02.04: DURATION:

Each bicycle license issued pursuant to this Chapter shall be valid for a period of five (5) years from the date of issue. Renewal of a bicycle license shall be by completion of a new application and payment of the fee. Evidence of renewal shall be indicated by a supplementary adhesive device affixed on or near the original license. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)

13.02.05: LICENSE RECORDS:

The Police Department shall maintain a record of the persons to whom a bicycle license has been issued, the number of the license and such other information as may be necessary to identify the bicycle and the owner thereof. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90)

13.02.06: SUSPENSION OF REGISTRATION:

The Police Chief shall have the authority to suspend the registration of any bicycle and remove the license from any bicycle operated in violation of any State law, City ordinance or provision of this Code after written notice and an opportunity for a hearing given to the licensee. Reinstatement of the license shall be on such terms as the Police Chief shall determine. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90; 1994 Code)

13.02.07: APPEAL:

Appeal from such suspension can be made to the City Manager within ten (10) calendar days of such suspension. Notice of the hearing on the appeal shall be provided to the licensee not less than five (5) days prior to the hearing. The determination of the City Manager shall be final. (Ord. 976, 3-14-90; 1994 Code)

CHAPTER XIV

MISCELLANEOUS

Subject Article

Burglar Alarm Systems 01

Fire Alarm Systems 02

Water Conservation 03

Noise Control 04

Offenses Involving the Person 05

Offenses Involving Property 06

Offenses Related to Public Health and Safety 07

Minors 08

Weapons 09

Costs for Special Police 10

Entry on Public School Premises.. 11

Storm Water Management And Discharge Control 12

Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones 13  

ARTICLE 01 – Back to top

BURGLAR ALARM SYSTEMS
 

SECTION:

14.01.01: Definitions

14.01.02: Alarm Requirement

14.01.03: False Alarm

14.01.04: Public Nuisance Alarms

14.01.05: Exemptions

14.01.06: Corrective Action

14.01.07: Penalty
 

14.01.01: DEFINITIONS:

As used herein, the words hereinafter defined are used as so defined unless it is apparent from the context that a different meaning is intended:

ALARM OWNER: The person who owns, leases, rents, uses or makes available for use by his/her agents, employees, representatives or family, any alarm system.

ALARM SYSTEM: Any device, whether known as a burglary, robbery or intrusion alarm, by any other name, which is used for the detection of an unauthorized entry into a building, structure or facility or to signal the commission of an unlawful act. It shall include those devices which emit a signal within the protected premises only, are supervised by the proprietor of the premises where located and are otherwise known as "proprietary alarm systems". Auxiliary devices installed by a telephone company to protect telephone company systems which might be damaged or disrupted by the use of an alarm system are not included in this definition.

AUDIBLE ALARM: A device designated to notify persons in the immediate vicinity of the protected premises, by emission of an audible sound, of an unauthorized entry on the premises or of the commission of an unlawful act.

DIRECT DIAL DEVICE: A device which is connected to a telephone line and, upon activation of an alarm system, automatically dials a predetermined telephone number and transmits a message or signal indicating a need for emergency response.

FALSE ALARM: An alarm signal activated by causes other than the commission or attempted commission of an unlawful act which the alarm system is designed to detect. An alarm signal activated by violent conditions of nature or other extraordinary circumstances not subject to the control of the alarm owner shall not constitute a false alarm. (1954 Code §14.18) !DEFEND!

14.01.02: ALARM REQUIREMENT:

For every alarm, the alarm owner or user thereof shall post the names and telephone numbers of persons to be notified to render repairs and service during any hour of the day or night during which the alarm is operated. An audible alarm shall terminate its operation, or the audible alarm shall automatically reset, within fifteen (15) minutes of its being activated.

Direct dial alarms will be programmed to telephone numbers only as designated by the Chief of Police. (1954 Code §14.19)

14.01.03: FALSE ALARM:

No person shall knowingly turn in a false alarm. This Section does not prohibit a test of an alarm system as permitted in advance by the Police Department. (1954 Code §14.20)

14.01.04: PUBLIC NUISANCE ALARMS:

Any alarm system which generates more than three (3) false alarms in any twelve (12) month period shall constitute a public nuisance due to the inordinate response time and risk attributable thereto. No person shall own, use or operate any alarm system classified as a public nuisance hereunder. (1954 Code §14.21)
 

14.01.05: EXEMPTIONS:

The provisions of this Article are not applicable to audible alarms affixed to motor vehicles or to a public telephone utility whose only duty is to furnish telephone service pursuant to tariffs on file with the California Public Utilities Commission. (1954 Code §14.22)

14.01.06: CORRECTIVE ACTION:

Upon the first violation of Section 14.01.04 of this Article, the Chief of Police shall serve a written notice on the violator describing the violation and specifying that the cause of the violation shall be corrected within ten (10) days of the date of service of the written notice. No further action shall be taken; provided, that the Chief of Police determines that the causes of the violation have been removed or fully corrected within the time period specified in this Section. (1954 Code §14.23)

14.01.07: PENALTY:

Any alarm owner or user about to be cited for violation of Section 14.01.04 of this Article shall pay a civil penalty to the City Clerk of twenty five dollars ($25.00) for the first offense, seventy five dollars ($75.00) for the second and one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00) for the third and subsequent offenses. (1954 Code §14.24; 1994 Code)

ARTICLE 02 – Back to top

FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

SECTION:

14.02.01: Definitions

14.02.02: Alarm Requirement

14.02.03: False Alarms

14.02.04: Public Nuisance Alarms

14.02.05: Corrective Action

14.02.06: Penalty !2R!

14.02.01: DEFINITIONS:

As used herein, the words hereinafter defined are used as so defined unless it is apparent from the context that a different meaning is intended:

ALARM OWNER: The person who owns, leases, rents, uses or makes available for use by his/her agents, employees, representatives or family, any alarm system.

FALSE ALARM: An alarm signal activated to the Fire Department by causes other than a need for emergency service from the Fire Department. An alarm signal activated by violent conditions of nature or other extraordinary circumstances not subject to the control of the alarm owner shall not constitute a false alarm.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM: A device used for the detection of fire, smoke or heat in a residence or building. It shall include those devices which emit a signal on the property or a direct dial service which is connected to a telephone line and, upon activation, automatically dials a predetermined number and transmits a message to the Fire Department. (1954 Code §14.26) !DEFEND!
 

14.02.02: ALARM REQUIREMENT:

For every alarm, the alarm owner or user thereof shall post the names and telephone numbers of persons to be notified to render repairs and service during any hour of the day or night during which the alarm is operated. An audible alarm shall terminate its operation, or the audible alarm shall automatically reset, within fifteen (15) minutes of its being activated.

Direct dial alarms will be programmed to telephone numbers only as designated by the Fire Chief. (1954 Code §14.27)
 

14.02.03: FALSE ALARMS:

No person shall knowingly turn in a false alarm. This Section does not prohibit a test of an alarm system as permitted in advance by the Fire Department. (1954 Code §14.28)
 

14.02.04: PUBLIC NUISANCE ALARMS:

Any alarm system which generates more than two (2) false alarms in any twelve (12) month period shall constitute a public nuisance due to the inordinate response time and risk attributable thereto. No person shall own, use or operate any alarm system classified as a public nuisance hereunder. (1954 Code §14.29)

14.02.05: CORRECTIVE ACTION:

Upon the first violation of Section 14.02.04 of this Article, the City Clerk shall serve a written notice on the violator describing the violation and specifying that the causes of the violation shall be corrected within ten (10) days of the date of service of the written notice. No further action shall be taken; provided, that the Fire Chief determines that the causes of the violation have been removed or fully corrected within the time period specified in this Section. (1954 Code §14.30)
 

14.02.06: PENALTY:

Any alarm owner or user that operates an alarm which generates more than two (2) false alarms within a twelve (12) month period shall pay a civil penalty to the City Clerk of fifty dollars ($50.00) for the first offense, one hundred dollars ($100.00) for the second and one hundred fifty dollars ($150.00) for the third and subsequent offenses. (1954 Code §14.31; 1994 Code)

ARTICLE 03 – Back to top

WATER CONSERVATION
 

SECTION:

14.03.01: Declaration of Stages

14.03.01: DECLARATION OF STAGES:

The City Council, upon recommendation of the City Manager, may declare stages of water conservation as provided herein.

A. Stage 1: Conservation Watch: During low rainfall but adequate water supply conditions, all residents, business persons and employees of the City are strongly encouraged to take part in a voluntary conservation program, including the following measures:

1. Avoid wasting water by flooding or creating runoff on sidewalks or gutters.

2. Avoid use of water for cleaning of sidewalks, driveways, patios, parking lots or other paved or hard surfaces.

3. Avoid using water through a hose for washing vehicles or recreational equipment without a positive automatic shutdown valve on the outlet end of the hose.

4. Avoid the unnecessary loss of pool and spa water due to evaporation when covers are not used.

5. Avoid waste of water through the disrepair of plumbing, sprinklers or irrigation systems.

6. Avoid watering of landscaping more often than once every three (3) days or overwatering or watering between the hours of ten o'clock (10:00) A.M. and five o'clock (5:00) P.M., when evaporation results in excess waste of water.

7. Avoid serving water in restaurants unless specifically requested by a customer.

B. Stage 2: Drought Watch: During City Council-declared drought watch conditions, based upon the recommendation of the City Manager in consultation with the City's water purveyor, all residents, business owners and employees of the City shall:

1. Avoid wasting water by flooding or creating runoff on sidewalks.

2. Avoid using water for cleaning of sidewalks, driveways, patios, parking lots or other paved or hard surfaces.

3. Avoid using water through a hose for washing vehicles or recreational equipment without a shutdown valve on the outlet end of the hose.

4. Avoid the unnecessary loss of water from pools and spas due to the lack of a cover during the summer months.

5. Avoid the waste of water through disrepair of plumbing, sprinklers or irrigation systems.

6. Avoid watering of landscaping more often that once every three (3) days or overwatering or watering between the hours of ten o'clock (10:00) A.M. and five o'clock (5:00) P.M., when evaporation results in excessive water waste.

7. City staff shall conduct an audit of its landscape irrigation systems to maximize efficiency, adjust sprinklers to avoid runoff and waste and check faucets, toilets and pipes, both indoors and outdoors, for leaks and repair them immediately.

8. Avoid serving water in restaurants unless specifically requested by a customer.

C. Stage 3: Drought Emergency: During City Council-declared drought emergency conditions, based upon recommendation of the City Manager in consultation with the City's water purveyor, the following shall apply:

1. All measures described in subsections B1 through B8 above shall be mandatory.

2. Every facility with a public restroom shall display "NOTICE OF DROUGHT CONDITION" information in conspicuous places upon premises, including every restroom. The information shall be conveyed by placard, menu message, decal or other form approved or provided by the City Manager.

3. Every building contractor shall refrain from the use of piped water for building or construction purposes, such as consolidation of backfill or dust control, without an approved written exception from the City Manager.

4. City staff shall conduct an audit of its landscape irrigation systems to maximize efficiency, adjust sprinklers to avoid runoff and waste and check faucets, toilets and pipes, both indoors and outdoors, for leaks and repair them immediately. (Ord. 986, 1-9-91)

ARTICLE 04 – Back to top

NOISE CONTROL
 

SECTION:

14.04.01: Declaration Of Policy

14.04.02: Definitions

14.04.03: Noise Level Enforcement Criteria

14.04.04: Ambient Base Noise Level

14.04.05: Noise Level Restrictions

14.04.06: Special Noise Sources

14.04.07: Construction Of Buildings And Projects

14.04.08: Vehicles

14.04.09: Sound Trucks

14.04.10: Excessive Noise Prohibited

14.04.11: Standards

14.04.12: Excessive Noise Near Schools Prohibited

14.04.13: Exclusions

14.04.14: Violations And Penalties

14.04.15: Effect Of Provisions

14.04.01: DECLARATION OF POLICY:

It is hereby declared to be the policy of the City to prohibit unnecessary, excessive and annoying noises from all sources subject to its police power and contrary to the public interest. At certain levels, noises are detrimental to the health and welfare of the citizenry and in the public interest, should be systematically proscribed. (1954 Code §14.7.101)
 

14.04.02: DEFINITIONS:

As used in this Article, unless the context otherwise clearly indicates, the words and phrases used in this Article are defined as follows:

AMBIENT BASE NOISE LEVEL: Reasonable and representative ambient noise levels in various land use categories in the City and at various times as established by the City's Technical Background Study for Noise, of March 1975.

AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL: The all-encompassing noise associated with a given environment, usually being a composite of sounds with many sources excluding the alleged offensive noise at the location and approximate time at which a comparison with the alleged offensive noise is to be made.

COMMERCIAL PURPOSE: Means and includes the use, operation or maintenance of any sound-amplifying equipment for the purpose of advertising any business or any goods or any services or for the purpose of attracting the attention of the public to or advertising for or soliciting patronage or customers to or for any performance, show, entertainment, exhibition or event or for the purpose of demonstrating any such sound equipment.

DECIBEL (dB): A unit of level which denotes the ratio between two (2) quantities which are proportional to power; the number of decibels corresponding to the ratio of two (2) amounts of power is ten (10) times the logarithm to the base ten (10) of this ratio.

EMERGENCY WORK: Work made necessary to restore property to a safe condition following a public calamity or work required to protect persons or property from an imminent exposure to danger.

MOTOR VEHICLES: Includes, but is not limited to, off-road vehicles, mini-bikes and go-carts.

NOISE LEVEL: The "A" weighted sound pressure level in decibels obtained by using a sound level meter at slow response with a reference pressure of twenty (20) micronewtons per square meter. The unit of measure is the dBA.

NONCOMMERCIAL PURPOSE: The use, operation or maintenance of any sound-amplifying equipment for other than a "commercial purpose". Noncommercial purpose shall mean and include, but shall not be limited to, philanthropic, political, patriotic and charitable purposes.

PERSON: A person, firm, association, co-partnership, joint venture, corporation or any entity, public or private in nature.

SOUND-AMPLIFYING EQUIPMENT: Any machine or device for the amplification of the human voice, music or any other sound.

SOUND LEVEL MET