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ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE STOCKTON MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD TITLE 8, CHAPTER TO 8.38 TO REGULATE SECURED STORAGE OF PALLETS BY COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council approve a motion to:
1. Adopt an ordinance adding Title 8 Chapter 38 to the Stockton Municipal Code requiring secured storage of pallets on commercial properties with an effective date of 120 days after adoption; and
2. Authorize the City Manager, or designee, to take all appropriate and necessary actions to carry out the purpose and intent of the ordinance.
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Summary
The proposed ordinance addresses public safety concerns related to the storage of unsecured pallets on commercial properties. It requires businesses to store pallets in secure areas to prevent fire hazards and visual blight. The ordinance includes definitions, storage requirements, exceptions, enforcement mechanisms, and penalties. Adoption will enhance community safety and compliance with fire prevention standards.
DISCUSSION
Background
Unsecured pallet storage has long been a concern for fire safety and community aesthetics. Pallets, often made of combustible materials such as wood or plastic, can significantly increase fire load and accelerate fire spread. The City has authority under Government Code sections 38771-38773.5 to regulate nuisances and hazards In early 2025, the Legislative and Environmental Committee deliberated on measures to regulate loose pallets stored behind commercial establishments. The committee intended to examine an ordinance aimed at regulating these pallets and enhancing public safety. The Fire Department worked with Code Enforcement to draft an ordinance, which was then submitted to the Legislative/Environmental Committee. The Legislative/Environmental Committee approved the ordinance for City Council to consider for final approval and implementation.
Present Situation
The proposed ordinance introduces comprehensive requirements for pallet storage on commercial and industrial properties. An outline of those provisions is provided below:
• Secured Storage Requirement: All pallets must be stored in locked or gated enclosures or secured with chains/cables to prevent unauthorized access.
• Time Limit for Unsecured Pallets: Pallets may only remain in unsecured areas for up to 90 minutes during active loading/unloading operations.
• Visibility Restrictions: Pallets cannot be stored in areas visible from public streets, sidewalks, or alleys unless fully screened and secured.
• Exceptions: Indoor storage compliant with fire codes, construction sites with active permits, and emergency situations authorized by the Fire Marshal are exempt.
• Fire Code Compliance: Businesses storing more than 50 pallets must comply with California Fire Code sections 315.7-315.7.7 and Chapter 32, as well as Stockton Municipal Code section 15.12.050 (Attachment A).
Benefits to the City:
• Reduces fire hazards and improves compliance with state fire codes.
• Improves visual aesthetics and reduces blight in commercial corridors.
• Provides clear enforcement tools and penalties for non-compliance.
Enforcement and Penalties:
Violations will be addressed through administrative citations, with the following fines:
• First violation: Written warning with 7 days to correct.
• Second violation: $200 citation.
• Third and subsequent violations: $500 citation.
Appeals may be filed within 10 days under Chapter 1.44 of the Municipal Code.
Implementation Timeline:
Staff recommends that the ordinance take effect 120 days after adoption to allow outreach and education to be conducted by Code Enforcement and Fire Prevention staff and allow businesses time to comply.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
Minimal fiscal impact. Minimal revenues anticipated. Enforcement will be managed by existing staff under current administrative citation procedures. No new funding requested.
Attachment A - Stockton Municipal Code References