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Board introduces 2025 fire code and approves modest fire impact fee increase amid calls for more public outreach
Summary
The board introduced the 2025 California Fire Code with local amendments for several fire protection districts and approved a 2.3% annual adjustment to fire impact fees (CCCI index), amid public objections about inadequate notice and a 4-1 vote with Supervisor Williams dissenting.
The Solano County Board of Supervisors on Dec. 21 introduced local amendments to the 2025 California Fire Code for Montezuma, Suisun and Vacaville fire protection districts and approved a 2.3% increase in fire protection impact fees for multiple districts.
Interim fire leadership explained the local ordinance carries forward life‑safety measures (access road loading requirements, address signage standards and electric gate battery backups) and aligns the county’s local revisions where the state code had changed. Staff said the code would take effect Jan. 1, 2026 for unincorporated areas covered by the districts and that some previously more restrictive local rules were being adjusted to match state standards for remodel thresholds and sprinklers to avoid unintended barriers to homeowner projects.
Separately, the board held a public hearing on a proposed 2.3% increase in fire impact fees — a routine, one‑time fee typically collected when building permits are pulled — tied to the California Construction Cost Index (CCCI). County staff explained the increase equates to only a few cents per square foot (generally 3–9¢ depending on district and building type), but several public commenters asked for broader outreach, citing affordability concerns for rebuilding and accessory dwelling units.
After public comment, the board approved the CCCI‑based increases for Suisun and Vacaville (and later for Cordelia and Dixon as part of a consolidated action) by votes recorded as 4‑1, with Supervisor Williams voting no and stating that the public hearing process should have been expanded so residents received clearer notice and opportunity to attend.
The board introduced the 2025 fire code and agreed to move the ordinance forward for final reading and adoption consistent with the districts’ recommendation. The fee increases will be effective per the resolutions and listed to take effect on Feb. 10, 2026 for the consolidated districts.
