HomeMy WebLinkAboutORDINANCE 2905 N.C.S. 07/21/2025 Ordinance No. 2905 N.C.S. Page 1 of 21
EFFECTIVE DATE
OF ORDINANCE
August 20, 2025
ORDINANCE NO. 2905 N.C.S.
Introduced by: Alex DeCarli Seconded by: Karen Nau
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PETALUMA REPEALING
AND REPLACING TITLE 16 OF THE PETALUMA MUNICIPAL CODE, ENTITLED
“AIRPORT AND AIRCRAFT”, INCLUDING CHAPTER 16.04 “GENERAL PROVISIONS AND
DEFINITIONS”, CHAPTER 16.06 “AIRPORT LEASES”, CHAPTER 16.08 “MOTOR
VEHICLES AT AIRPORT”, CHAPTER 16.12 “AIRCRAFT ON GROUND”, CHAPTER 16.16
“AIRCRAFT TAXIING, LANDING AND TAKEOFF”, CHAPTER 16.20 “AIRCRAFT TRAFFIC
PATTERNS”, CHAPTER 16.24 “AIRCRAFT FUELING AND DEFUELING”, CHAPTER,
CHAPTER 16.28 “AIRPORT FIRE SAFETY RULES”, CHAPTER 16.32 “UNLICENSED
AIRCRAFT”, PURSUANT TO FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION ORDER 5190.6B,
AND CHAPTER 16.32 “VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES”
WHEREAS, the City of Petaluma Ordinance 1802, was adopted in 1990, which included the
establishment of Petaluma Municipal Code (PMC) Title 16, Chapters 16.04 through 16.36, to “govern the
Petaluma Municipal Airport and operation of aircraft therein.”; and
WHEREAS, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Order 5190.6B permits local authorities to
limit aircraft flight activity, for specific reasons, including safety and efficiency; and
WHEREAS, PMC 16.32.020 requires Airport Manager approval for all ultralight flights, without
specifying safety or efficiency concerns; and
WHEREAS, the FAA Western Pacific Region Safety & Standards Branch has identified PMC
Chapter 16.32.020 to be incompatible with current FAA rules and has requested that it be removed; and
WHEREAS, the Airport Commission has submitted a revision of Petaluma Municipal Code
Chapter 16, including minor updates and corrections, which has been reviewed by the City Attorney,
including the removal PMC Chapter 16.32.020; and
WHEREAS, the FAA Airport District Office Compliance Office has reviewed the revision of
Petaluma Municipal Code Chapter 16, and returned the document with minor recommended changes which
have been adopted; and
WHEREAS, on June 1, 2025, the Airport Commission approved Airport Commission Resolution
2025-1, recommending that the revision of Petaluma Municipal Code Chapter 16 be submitted to the City
Council for review; and
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WHEREAS, on July 7, 2025, the City Council introduced ordinance No. 2905 N.C.S. after
reviewing the record by a vote of 7-0.
WHEREAS, the proposed amendments are minor administrative revisions of Title 16 of the
Petaluma Municipal Code, and does not create any physical changes, project work, and is therefore not
considered a “project” as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Section 15378
and is accordingly exempt from CEQA; and
WHEREAS, if the proposed amendments were a “project” under CEQA, it would be exempt
under the “common sense” exemption found in CEQA Section 15061(b)(3), since it only applies to
projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Petaluma, as follows:
Section 1. Recital Findings. Declares the above recitals to be true and accurate and incorporated as
findings herein of this Resolution.
Section 2. CEQA Findings. Finds that the proposed amendments are minor administrative revisions of
Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code, and does not create any physical changes, project work, and is
therefore not considered a “project” as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Section 15378 and is accordingly exempt from CEQA. If the proposed amendments were a “project”
under CEQA, it would be exempt under the “common sense” exemption found in CEQA Section
15061(b)(3), since it only applies to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on
the environment.
Section 3. Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code is hereby repealed and replaced to read as follows:
Title 16 Airport and Aircraft
Chapter 16.04 General Provisions and Definitions
16.04.010 Definitions
Definitions as provided by the Federal Aviation Administration through Title 14 of the Federal Code of
Regulations (see Part 1 et al) and other material, including Advisory Circulars, Orders, and Policy
Statements, as they shall be amended from time to time, shall supersede any of the following. For
convenience, as used in Title 16, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following definitions
shall apply:
A. “Aeronautical Activity” means any activity or service that involves, makes possible, or is required
for the operation of aircraft or that contributes to or is required for the safety of such operations.
See FAA Order 5190.6B or its revisions for the current FAA-accepted definition.
B. “Aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air.
C. “Aircraft Accident” means an occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft which takes
place between the time any person boards the aircraft with the intention of flight and all such
persons have disembarked, and in which any person suffers death or serious injury, or in which
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the aircraft receives substantial damage. For purposes of this part, the definition of “aircraft
accident” includes “unmanned aircraft accident,” as defined in 49 CFR Part 830.2.
D. “Aircraft movement area” means the runways, taxiways, and other areas of the airport utilized for
taxiing, hover taxiing, air taxiing, and takeoff or landing of aircraft, exclusive of loading ramps,
maintenance ramps and parking areas.
E. “Airport” means the Petaluma Municipal Airport.
F. “Airport Commission” is defined in section 2.60 of the Petaluma Municipal Code. .
G. “Airport Manager” means the City Manager of Petaluma or their duly authorized designee.
H. “Airport operations area” means that portion of the airport designated and used for landing, taking
off, or surface maneuvering of aircraft.
I. “Based aircraft” means any aircraft assigned a reserved parking space, tie-down, or hangar space
at the airport, whether or not such assignment is made under written lease with the city of
Petaluma.
J. “City” means the city of Petaluma, California.
K. “Code” or “this Code” shall mean the Petaluma Municipal Code.
L. “Commercial Activity” means any activity conducted at the Airport for the purpose of obtaining
revenue, earnings, income, and/or compensation of any kind, including the exchange of goods or
services for goods or services (barter), whether or not such objective are accomplished.
M. “Commercial Operator” means any person or entity that imposes a charge for compensation in
exchange for performing a Commercial Activity.
N. “Council” means the city council of the City of Petaluma, California.
O. “FAA" means the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States of America, as defined in
the Federal Aviation Act of 1958, or any subsequent and successor to that agency created for the
control and operation of aviation and its related functions.
P. “Federal Aviation Regulations” or “FARs” means Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Q. “Fire marshal” means the fire marshal of the city of Petaluma or their designee.
R. “Owner” means the registered or legal owner of an aircraft according to the records of the Federal
Aviation Administration or vehicle according to the records of the Department of Motor Vehicles.
S. “Person” means individuals, firms, companies, corporations, public agencies, and any other person
as defined in Section 1.04.010(M) of the Petaluma Municipal Code.
T. “Public Hangars” mean those hangars that are owned by the airport and leased to individual users
while “Private Hangars” are those hangars owned by parties other than the airport.
U. “Restricted area” means any portion of any airport not intended for use by the general public and
so posted by the city.
V. “Rules and regulations” means the provisions of Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code
contained herein.
W. “Title 16” refers to the provisions of Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code.
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X. “Transient Aircraft” refers to an aircraft using the airport that is not a based aircraft.
Y. “UAS” or “unmanned aircraft system” means an unmanned aircraft and the equipment necessary
for the safe and efficient operation of that aircraft. An unmanned aircraft is defined by statute as
an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on
the aircraft (Public Law 112-95, Section 331(8)). Smaller UAS are commonly referred to as
“drones.”
Z. “Vehicle” means a vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer, or semitrailer propelled or drawn by
mechanical power used on highways and includes, but is not limited to automobiles, motorcycles,
trucks, tractors, bicycles, buses, and trailers.
16.04.020 Compliance with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
A. The Federal Aviation Act of 1958 authorizes the Administrator of the Federal Aviation
Administration to prescribe air traffic rules and regulations governing the flight of aircraft. The
Federal Aviation Regulations promulgated by the Administrator cover all flights on or in the
vicinity of the airport.
B. Aircraft operators, pilots, and other users of the airport are required to be familiar with and comply
with the Federal Aviation Regulations, and, in particular, Part 91, General Operating and Flight
Rules, of said regulations.
C. All aeronautical activities at the airport and all flying of aircraft departing from or arriving at said
airport, shall be conducted in conformity with the Federal Aviation Regulations.
D. If a conflict is identified between Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code or other rules and
regulations and any applicable Federal Regulation or US Code (e.g., 14 CFR and USC Title 49),
or with any other applicable FAA guidance or requirements, such other requirements will take
precedence.
16.04.030 Duties and powers of the airport manager.
A. The airport manager is empowered to oversee the operations of the airport and to apply and enforce
the rules and regulations contained in Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code. The provisions of
Title 16 are supplemental to, and will be superseded by, the Federal Aviation Regulations and
apply specifically to the airport.
B. The airport manager shall represent the city at all times in regard to all airport matters and shall
also have the following duties and powers:
1. The airport manager shall at all times have authority to take such actions as may be deemed
necessary to safeguard the public in attendance at the airport. Every commercial operator,
pilot, mechanic or other person employed on or using the airport shall cooperate to enforce
these rules and regulations and to see that all persons upon the premises use care to prevent
injury to persons or damage to property.
2. The airport manager may suspend or restrict any or all operations at the airport without
regard to weather conditions whenever such action is deemed necessary in the interest of
safety.
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3. The airport manager may suspend, as a means of safeguarding the airport and the public,
the privileges of the airport and its facilities to any person refusing to comply with these
rules and regulations.
4. The airport manager shall have authority to restrict airport operations to such portion(s) of
the airport as they may deem necessary or desirable. Any part of the airport temporarily
unsafe for aircraft operation which is not available for any cause, shal l be clearly marked
in accordance with recommendations of the FAA.
5. The airport manager may issue permits or written permission for use of the airport as
authorized by this Title 16.
6. The airport manager is authorized in any contingency or emergency not specifically
covered by these rules and regulations to make such decisions as they may deem proper.
C. Any person aggrieved by a decision of the airport manager restricting or prohibiting use of the
airport and its facilities, or prohibiting or restricting airport operations, may appeal the airport
manager’s decision to the airport commission. A notice of appeal stating the grounds therefore
shall be filed with the city clerk.
16.04.035 Duties of airport commission.
The airport commission, in addition to the permit and appeal responsibilities listed within Title 16, has
duties as defined in Petaluma Municipal Code 2.60.050.
16.04.040 Compliance with applicable rules and laws.
All persons using the airport shall be subject to, and governed by, the rules and regulations contained in
Title 16 of the Petaluma Municipal Code, the Minimum Standards for Aeronautical Activity and Services
at the Petaluma Municipal Airport, and all other applicable provisions of this Code and resolutions, county
ordinances and resolutions, state and federal laws, and the Federal Aviation Administration Regulations.
16.04.050 Radio communications.
Radio communications at the airport shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures and by means
of the phraseologies recommended by the FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) when operating
an aircraft.
16.04.060 Hours of airport operation.
The airport shall be open for public use at all hours of the day and night, subject to these rules and
regulations and subject to the condition of the landing area, as may be determined by the airport manager.
16.04.070 Interference with airport use prohibited.
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No person shall obstruct, impair, or unreasonably interfere with the use of the airport by any other person,
or obstruct, impair, or unreasonably interfere with the passage and safe, orderly and efficient use of the
airport by any other person, vehicle or aircraft.
16.04.080 Entrance on restricted areas prohibited.
No person shall enter any portion of the airport designated a restricted area unless authorized to do so by
the airport manager.
16.04.090 Animals at airport.
Animals at the airport are subject to the requirements of Chapter 9.08 of this code. Notwithstanding the
requirements enumerated therein, animals “at large” shall include an animal that is on the owned, leased
or licensed airport premises of its owner at any time that there is unrestricted access to the airport
operations area, including through open hangar or access door, and must be restrained by leash or confined
in such a manner as to be under control.
16.04.100 Assumption of liability for airport use.
The privilege of using the airport and its facilities shall be conditioned upon the assumption of full
responsibility and risk by the user thereof and such user shall release, hold harmless, and indemnify the
city and its officers and employees, against claims arising from use of the airport.
16.04.110 Use of airport for commercial activities.
Subject to applicable orders, certificates, or permits of the FAA or its successors, no person shall use the
airport or any portion thereof, or any of its improvements or facilities, for revenue-producing commercial
activities without compliance with the requirements of Title 16, and other provisions of the Petaluma
Municipal Code.
16.04.120 Contract/permit required to conduct commercial business.
A. No commercial activities, unless explicitly protected or allowed by FAA requirements, shall be
conducted on the airport without the operator thereof having a current contract/permit which has
been approved by the city council and a city business license.
1. Such contract/permit shall define the areas of airport land and facilities to be used by the
tenant or operator.
2. Such contract/permit shall stipulate services to be rendered and the operator may charge
reasonable fees for such services.
B. It shall be unlawful for any person not so authorized by contract/permit to engage in any
commercial activities, unless explicitly protected or allowed by FAA requirements, at the airport
including the operation, service or repair of aircraft on airport premises for hire.
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16.04.130 Reporting of incidents.
In addition to complying with National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and FAA reporting
requirements, any person involved in an incident at the airport which results in damage, injury, or theft to
one or more persons or to property shall promptly report such occurrences to the airport manager. See also
9 CFR Part 830.
16.04.140 Firearms at the airport.
A. No person except peace officers, duly authorized government employees, members of the Armed
Forces of the United States, or other persons duly authorized by law to carry a firearm or similar
instrument in their possession shall have any of the following in their possession on airport
property: any firearm, fireworks, gun, pistol, revolver, explosive of similar nature, air-gun, BB
gun, pellet gun or any other instrument defined in Section 10.56.020(A) of this code.
B. Exceptions. This prohibition shall not apply to persons possessing flares or other aircraft survival
equipment nor to persons carrying firearms in locked cases, broken down, and unloaded.
16.04.150 Disposal of garbage.
No person shall dispose of garbage, papers, refuse or other material on the airport except in receptacles
provided for that purpose.
16.04.160 Damage to airport property.
It shall be unlawful for any person to destroy, damage, or deface or cause to be destroyed, damaged, or
defaced any public property located at the airport. Any person causing or responsible for such destruction
or damage shall report such damage to the airport manager, and upon demand of the airport manager shall
reimburse the airport for the full amount of the damage. Any person failing to report and/or reimburse the
airport for damage may be refused the use of any facility until and unless said report and/or reimbursement
is made.
16.04.170 Commercial photography and filming.
A. No person shall take still, motion, or sound pictures for commercial purposes on the airport without
permission from the airport manager and in accordance with Chapter 13.40 of this code.
B. Exception: This section shall not apply to representatives of the press and other news services
reporting on persons or events which are on the news excepting that all such persons must obtain
permission from the airport manager prior to entrance onto any of the airport operations areas.
16.04.180 Public and private gatherings.
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No person shall sponsor or conduct club, association or other private gatherings on airport property except
as authorized in writing by the airport manager.
A. Notwithstanding the provisions of Title 13, Chapter 13.32 of this code, this section shall govern
the issuance of permits for activities specified in subsection B of this section including those
activities on the airport which may incidentally affect traffic and parking on streets in the airport
vicinity.
B. It shall be unlawful for any person to sponsor or conduct any of the following activities on the
airport without first obtaining a special activity permit from the airport manager:
1. Any public parade, rally, or demonstration.
2. Any public distribution or offer for sale of pamphlets, circulars or other written materials
for religious, charitable, political or other non-commercial purposes.
3. The carrying, posting, or displaying of any signs or placards for religious, charitable,
political or other non-commercial purposes.
4. Solicitation of contributions. For purposes of this section "contributions" means and
includes the words donations, money, alms, food, clothing, subscriptions, property, credit,
financial assistance, or other thing of value.
C. A verified application for a permit shall be filed with the airport manager on a form provided by
the airport manager. The application shall set forth the following:
1. The name, address and telephone number of the person/organization
conducting/sponsoring the proposed special activity and the individual who will be in
charge of the activity at the airport.
2. The nature/purpose of the activity.
3. The date(s), time(s) and location for the proposed activity.
4. The estimated number of persons who will participate in the activity.
5. Such other information the airport manager finds reasonably necessary to determine
whether to grant the permit under this section.
D. The airport manager shall determine whether to issue or deny the permit within five business days
of receipt of a completed application. Any permit denial shall be in writing and shall specify the
grounds therefor. The airport manager shall issue a permit unless the airport manager determines
from the application or other information that:
1. The location or time of the proposed activity would conflict with a previously scheduled
airport activity or event.
2. The proposed activity would interfere with airport use or the safe and orderly movement
of pedestrian, vehicular, or aircraft traffic at the airport or on streets in the airport
vicinity.
3. The proposed activity would be in violation of any applicable law as described in Section
16.04.040 of this code.
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4. The location of the proposed special activity is not authorized pursuant to subsection E of
this section.
5. Any of the grounds for permit denial specified in Section 13.32.080 of this code exist.
E. Special events shall not be permitted in any of the following airport areas:
1. Any airport area designated a restricted area by the airport manager or which is otherwise
not open to the general public including but not limited to the aircraft apron area.
2. Any restroom.
3. Any airport area or facility for which a lease or permit has been granted to conduct
commercial activities in accordance with Section 16.04.120 of this code.
4. Any aircraft operating area. The airport manager may condition the issuance of a permit
by imposing reasonable requirements concerning the time, place, and manner of the
activity and such requirements are necessary to protect the safety of persons and property,
normal operations of the airport, and compliance with all applicable laws. Such permit
conditions may include a requirement that the permittee indemnify the city as specified in
Section 13.32.120 of the code, pay cleanup deposits (when applicable) as specified in
Section 13.32.140 of the code and/or police traffic control fees (when applicable) as
specified in Section 13.32.150 of the code. It shall be unlawful to violate any of the terms
or conditions of the permit.
F. Insurance shall be required for any special event involving thirty or more participants as specified
in Section 13.32.130 of this code. The insurance requirements of subsections 13.32.130A, B, and
C shall be waived by the airport manager if the conditions specified in subsection 13.32.130D of
this code are satisfied.
G. A special activity permit shall be issued for the date(s) requested in the application, or thirty days,
whichever is less.
H. The airport manager may impose conditions and restrictions on issuance of a permit including the
deposit of cleanup fees to ensure that the airport site will be cleaned and restored after the event.
Such permit conditions may include a requirement that the permittee assume liability for the event
as specified in Section 16.04.100 of the code, and that the permittee obtain a comprehensive
general liability insurance policy in the amount and scope of coverage prescribed by city council
resolution.
I. A permit may be revoked or suspended by the airport manager for failure to comply with permit
terms and conditions or for any of the reasons specified for permit denial under subsection D of
this section. Notice of the grounds for permit revocation/suspension shall be personally served or
served by mail on the permittee. The permit applicant may appeal a permit denial, revocation, or
condition to the city manager within seven days of the date of personal service or posting in the
mail of the notice thereof. The appeal shall be filed with the city clerk stating the grounds therefor.
The city manager will issue a determination on the appeal no later than 30 days from the date the
appeal was received by the city clerk.
16.04.190 Airshows, exhibitions, and other special events.
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A. The issuance of permits for events specified in subsection B of this section, including those events
on the airport which may incidentally affect traffic and parking on streets in the airport vicinity,
shall be governed by the procedures and requirements set forth in Title 13, Chapter 13.32 of this
code.
B. No person shall sponsor or conduct any of the following events on airport property without first
obtaining a permit from the airport manager with rights of appeal to the city council:
1. Any airshow or other special air event.
2. Any public exhibition, show, commercial demonstration, or similar event on airport
property.
3. Any other special event on airport property.
C. In addition to the grounds for denial set forth in Section 13.32.080, the permit application may be
denied for any of the following grounds: The proposed activity would be in violation of any
applicable law as described in Section 16.04.040 of this code.
1. The event is not compatible with other airport uses or activities or is otherwise not in the
best interests of the operation of the airport.
2. A previous special activity permit issued under this section has been suspended and the
period of suspension has not expired, or has been revoked within one year of the date of
application.
D. In addition to the permit conditions that may be imposed pursuant to Title 13, Chapter 13.32, a
permit issued under this section are conditioned to require that the permittee assume liability for
the event as specified in Section 16.04.100 of the code, and that the permittee obtain a
comprehensive general liability insurance policy in the amount and scope of coverage prescribed
by city council resolution.
E. A permit may be revoked or suspended by the chief of police for failure to comply with permit
terms and conditions or for any of the reasons specified for permit denial under this section or Title
13, Chapter 13.32. Notice of the grounds for permit revocation/suspension shall be personally
served or served by mail on the permittee.
F. The permit applicant may appeal a permit denial, revocation, suspension or condition as provided
by Section 13.32.100.
16.04.200 Fees, rates, and charges.
A schedule of fees, rates, and charges for use of airport areas and facilities shall be established by
resolution of the city council.
CHAPTER 16.06
AIRPORT LEASES
16.06.010 Findings and purpose.
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Section 46 of Article VII of the Petaluma City Charter provides that action to provide for leases of city
property be taken by ordinance unless the council takes action pursuant to a general law of the state. The
large number of hangar and tie-down facilities and interest by airport users in such facilities, as well as in
ground leases, makes approval of individual leases by ordinance impractical and costly in terms of staff
time and other public resources. Legislative authority for city council approval of form leases for tie-down
spaces, hangars and ground leases and other specified arrangements regarding airport facilities, and for
city manager execution of airport leases using council-approved form documents, is intended to meet the
requirements of Section 46, Article VII of the Petaluma City Charter, provide for appropriate city council
oversight concerning the municipal airport lease program, provide for efficient use of public resources,
promote fiscal efficiency, and provide necessary flexibility to airport management to effectively meet the
needs of airport users and maximize airport services and generation of revenue for airport facilities.
16.06.020 Approval of airport leases by resolution.
In accordance with Section 46 of Article VII of the City of Petaluma Charter, the city council of the city
of Petaluma may approve form lease documents for city-owned hangars and tie-down spaces at the
Petaluma Municipal Airport by resolution; and may approve ground leases, specialized lease
arrangements and other specialized use of the Petaluma Municipal Airport by resolution.
16.06.030 Execution of airport leases by city manager.
The city manager or their designee is authorized to execute, on behalf of the city airport, leases for hangar
and tie-down facilities at the Petaluma Municipal Airport using form leases that have been approved by
city council resolution as long as such leases do not differ materially from such approved form leases. The
city manager or their designee is authorized to execute, on behalf of the city, other specified leases or
agreements for use of the Petaluma Municipal Airport that have been approved by the city council by
resolution.
CHAPTER 16.08
MOTOR VEHICLES
16.08.010 Compliance with state law and FAA requirements.
A. Every person who operates any motor vehicle or mobile equipment on the airport shall comply
with all applicable provisions of the laws of the state of California and any special regulations
prescribed herein for the control of such vehicles excepting in cases of emergency involving life
or property.
B. Vehicles operated in or near active aircraft movement areas on the airport should comply with
FAA Advisory Circular AC150/5210-5D Painting, Marking, and Lighting of Vehicles Used on an
Airport to the greatest extent possible.
C. Vehicles that will be operated in or near active aircraft movement areas (e.g., taxiways) should
have radio communication capabilities such that the vehicle operator can monitor the airport
common traffic advisory frequency.
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16.08.020 Vehicle parking in designated areas.
A. The city shall designate by appropriate posting the following:
1. Places where vehicles may not be parked on the airport.
2. The period of time for which vehicles may be parked at any place on the airport.
B. The city shall be authorized to remove any vehicle parked on any roadway, parking area, or other
posted area of the airport in violation of this chapter, and to impound the same at the owner’s
expense and without liability to the city for damages which may result from, or in the course of,
such moving.
16.08.030 Driving on taxiway or on runway prohibited.
Motor vehicles, except emergency vehicles, shall not be driven onto the parallel taxiway or runway
without the express permission of the airport manager. Such authorized vehicles shall be distinctly painted
or marked in accordance with the provisions of the current FAA requirements and guidance material (e.g.,
AC15/5210-5D) for marking of vehicles used on landing areas.
16.08.040 Driving in excess of posted speed limit prohibited.
No vehicles shall be driven upon any road or upon other areas within the perimeter of the airport in excess
of the speed which is posted at the entrance to the airport or upon a particular road or area. The driver of
every vehicle shall adhere to any sign posted to regulate vehicular traffic or about the airport for the public
safety.
16.08.050 Vehicles to yield right-of-way to aircraft.
All vehicles except emergency vehicles engaged in emergency activity shall at all times yield the right-
of-way to any and all aircraft.
CHAPTER 16.12
AIRCRAFT ON GROUND
16.12.010 Aircraft parking in designated areas.
Aircraft shall be parked in designated areas administered by the city and in areas rented to commercial
operators. Aircraft owners or operators may also park aircraft in privately-owned hangars erected on land
leased by the owner from the city.
16.12.020 Fees by commercial operators.
Commercial operators may charge reasonable fees for use of leased facilities. Appeals of such charges
may be made to the airport manager.
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16.12.030 Aircraft parking for special events.
For special events, aircraft shall be parked only in areas designated by the airport manager.
16.12.040 Aircraft parking in areas not under lease.
No aircraft shall be parked in areas not under lease without special written permission of the airport
manager, who may authorize such parking as a temporary measure or as an interim measure pending the
execution of a lease or contract.
16.12.050 Aircraft parking in taxiway areas prohibited.
Active taxiway areas shall be maintained open to taxiing aircraft at all times, and no aircraft shall be
parked in such taxiway areas or left unattended in such a manner as to interfere with the free flow of
traffic.
16.12.060 Unattended aircraft.
No aircraft shall be left unattended on the airport unless properly secured in a tie-down or within a hangar.
Owners of aircraft shall be responsible for damage resulting from failure to comply with this section.
16.12.070 Start-up and run-up of aircraft.
Aircraft shall be started, warmed-up and run-up only in designated areas. Engine run-ups may only be
conducted when the path of the propeller slip stream is clear of all structures, persons, and property.
16.12.080 Hand-propping of aircraft engines.
Hand-propping of aircraft engines is prohibited except when the design of the aircraft is such that this is
the only method of starting. When hand-propping is necessary, a licensed pilot or mechanic shall be at the
control at all times and the wheels shall be chocked.
16.12.090 Use of aircraft apron area restricted.
No persons except airmen, duly authorized personnel, passengers, or other persons going to or from
aircraft personally conducted by airmen or airport attendants, shall be permitted to enter an aircraft apron
area. Any person or persons so excepted does not have the privilege of unrestricted use of the apron. These
privileges are confined to the necessary use of such space in connection with flights or routine duties.
16.12.100 Removal of disabled aircraft.
Aircraft owners and their agents and pilots shall be responsible for the prompt removal from the airport
of disabled aircraft and their parts, except for salvage and repair conducted within an enclosed hangar,
unless required or directed to delay this action pending investigation of an accident.
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CHAPTER 16.16
AIRCRAFT TAXIING, LANDING AND TAKEOFF
16.16.010 Aircraft taxiing for takeoff.
All aircraft preparing to takeoff shall taxi to the end of the runway for takeoff.
16.16.020 Use of taxiways by landing aircraft.
All landing aircraft returning to the airport flight line shall leave the runway on the first available taxiway
which is practical in order to keep the runways clear for approaching aircraft. Aircraft shall not make one
hundred eighty degree turns on the runway after landing unless no taxiway is available, but shall continue
straight ahead until reaching the first taxiway and shall clear the runway as soon as possible.
16.16.030 Taxiing from a parking space.
No person shall taxi an aircraft from an approved parking space until the pilot has ascertained through
information furnished by visual inspection that there will be no danger of collision with any person or
object in the immediate area.
16.16.040 Speed limit for taxiing.
Aircraft shall be taxied at a safe and reasonable speed and distance from other aircraft.
16.16.050 Right-of-way for taxiing aircraft.
Taxiing aircraft shall not overtake other taxiing aircraft. Approaching traffic shall give way to the right.
At intersections, the aircraft on the right shall have the right-of-way.
16.16.060 Location of aircraft during engine run-up.
Aircraft taxiing for takeoff shall conduct engine run-up in the designated run-up area. Aircraft shall be
turned to provide the pilot with a clear view of approaching aircraft, and it shall be their responsibility to
remain clear of other traffic. No aircraft shall be moved onto a runway until ready for takeoff.
16.16.070 Taxiing under power into or out of hangars prohibited.
Aircraft shall not be taxied under power into or out of any hangar.
16.16.080 Midfield or intersection takeoffs prohibited.
Midfield or intersection takeoffs are prohibited.
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16.16.090 Runway to be used for takeoffs and landings.
Landings and takeoffs shall be made on the runway most nearly aligned with the wind indicator at the
airport. When wind conditions are calm, Runway 29 should be used.
16.16.100 Exceptions for emergencies.
Exceptions to the rules and regulations governing landing and takeoff specified in this chapter shall only
be made in an emergency requiring immediate action as provided in Part 91.3 of the Federal Aviation
Regulations.
CHAPTER 16.20
AIRCRAFT TRAFFIC PATTERNS
16.20.010 Compliance with FAA rules.
All aircraft arriving at or departing from the airport shall conform to the FAA rules for operations at
airports without a control tower. Users of the airport are referred to the FAA’s Aeronautical Information
Manual (AIM) and other relevant guidance material.
16.20.020 Airport traffic patterns
Excepting for Ultralight & Unmanned Aircraft Systems which are governed by Chapter 16.32 of this code,
the traffic patterns for the airport shall be as follows:
For aircraft operating under visual flight rules (VFR)
A. Standard left hand rectangular pattern for Runway 11.
B. Nonstandard right hand rectangular pattern for Runway 29.
C. The airport manager will ensure that the information published in the FAA’s Airport Chart
Supplements database (including Remarks) is kept current.
D. The airport manager will ensure that the airport website is kept current with operational
information and advisory material for the airport, such as traffic pattern guidance and other
procedures.
16.20.030 Helicopters.
Helicopters arriving at, operating on, or departing from the airport shall operate clear of the traffic pattern
as established herein and shall operate on or over the field well clear of fixed -wing traffic and in
accordance with the following regulations:
A. Helicopters may taxi to the fuel island by way of the parallel taxiway only.
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B. No hover or taxi practice operations shall be conducted without the approval of the airport manager
and limits for the same may be established at their discretion.
CHAPTER 16.24
AIRCRAFT FUELING AND DEFUELING
16.24.010 Fueling and defueling restrictions.
No aircraft shall be fueled or defueled at the airport while engines are running unless the operator complies
with the requirements for Rapid Refueling of NFPA 407 and/or with approved FAA policies, and guidance
including Advisory Circulars.
16.24.020 Spillage of fuel.
Persons engaged in the fueling or defueling of aircraft shall exercise all caution to prevent spillage of fuel,
including the filling of tanks to the point where they would overflow from heat expansion.
16.24.030 Static discharge precautions.
No person shall use any material likely to cause a static discharge during fueling or defueling of aircraft.
16.24.040 Fire extinguishers required.
Functioning fire extinguishers shall be within ready reach of persons engaged in fueling and defueling
operations at all times.
16.24.050 Restrictions on engine start-up.
No person shall start the engine of any aircraft when there is fuel on the ground under the aircraft.
16.24.060 Fueling hoses and defueling equipment.
Fueling and defueling hoses and other equipment shall be maintained in a safe, sound, and non-leaking
condition at all times.
CHAPTER 16.28
AIRPORT FIRE AND SAFETY RULES
16.28.010 Compliance with applicable fire safety rules.
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All persons using the airport shall comply with the fire safety rules and regulations contained in this
chapter and with all fire safety laws, ordinances and regulations, including NFPA 407 and/or with
approved FAA policies, and guidance including Advisory Circulars.
16.28.020 Power operated tugs.
Power operated tugs for moving aircraft used within hangars shall be of a type approved by the fire
marshal.
16.28.030 Storage of material and equipment.
A. No person shall store or stock material or equipment so as to constitute a fire hazard.
B. No person shall store or place any flammable liquids, solids, gases, signal flares, or similar
hazardous materials within any hangar or building except in areas or rooms specifically approved
by the fire marshal. The storage of flammable liquids within buildings shall be under permit issued
by the fire marshal. Such storage shall be in approved containers bearing the label of the
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (five-gallon maximum container).
16.28.040 Maintenance and cleaning of hangars.
A. All tenants of buildings shall maintain the floors of hangars, hangar ramps, and adjacent areas free
and clean of oil, grease, and other flammable materials.
B. No person shall use flammable substances for cleaning floors of hangars or other buildings.
16.28.050 Cleaning of aircraft engines and parts.
The cleaning of aircraft engines or other parts using solvents shall be limited in scope and only
nonflammable or high flashpoint solvents shall be used. Drip and collecting pans shall be used during any
cleaning process.
16.28.060 Disposal of gasoline and other flammable waste projects.
No person shall dispose of gasoline, oil, solvent, or other flammable waste products (HAZMAT) in any
drain, manhole, open ditch, any garbage bin or receptacle, or other airport areas. HAZMAT must be
disposed or recycled in accordance with state and local HAZMAT waste regulations and policies.
16.28.070 Painting and doping of aircraft.
Painting and doping of aircraft with flammable liquids shall be conducted only in areas or in buildings
approved by the fire marshal.
16.28.080 Smoking restrictions.
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No person shall smoke any cigarette, cigar or pipe, or strike any match or kindle any flame whatsoever
within fifty feet of any aircraft while being fueled, or within fifty feet from fuel islands or any flammable
liquid container, or within any aircraft workshop located upon the airport, except as approved by the fire
marshal. Smoking shall be permitted within areas designated by the fire marshal.
16.28.090 Cutting and welding.
Cutting and welding, operations shall be conducted only within areas or buildings approved by the fire
marshal.
16.28.100 Electrical wire, fixtures and appliances.
All electrical wiring, fixtures, and appliances shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the city
Building Code, adopted in Section 17.04.010 of this Code, and the City Fire Code, adopted at Section
17.20.010 of this Code.
16.28.110 Commercial operators to provide fire safety training.
Each commercial operator shall institute training programs for employees in the use of portable fire
extinguishing equipment and methods of evacuating or relocating occupants of the premises in case of
fire or other emergency.
16.28.120 Portable fire extinguishers.
A. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and installed by the Lessee or Licensee for all private
hangars, including hangers used by Commercial Operators, as directed by the fire marshal as to
number, type, and location.
B. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided and installed by the airport for all public hangars as
directed by the fire marshal as to number, type, and location.
C. Portable fire extinguishers shall not be moved from designated locations for any reasons other than
as a precaution against an immediate hazard or to be recharged.
D. Access to all fire extinguishing equipment shall be kept free and unobstructed at all times. Portable
fire extinguishers will be inspected periodically.
16.28.130 Duty to report fire.
Every person who becomes aware of any fire or smoldering combustion of any unwarranted or insidious
nature which is not confined within equipment designed for fire or which is a hazard to the premises shall
report said fire or smoldering combustion without delay to the Petaluma Fire Department.
16.28.140 Fire marshal drills and inspections.
Fire prevention inspections may be conducted by the fire marshal and fire drills shall be held at their
discretion.
CHAPTER 16.32
ULTRALIGHT AIRCRAFT AND UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS
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16.32.010 Rules and regulations governing ultralight aircraft.
All air vehicles which meet the applicability criteria listed in FAR Part 103 are considered ultralight
aircraft. Due to the unique operating characteristics, licensing procedures and minimal applicable Federal
Air Regulations, this chapter shall establish supplemental requirements governing operation of ultralight
aircraft as defined in FAR Part 103. Ultralight operations at the airport should also comply to the greatest
extent possible with the most current version of FAA Advisory Circular 103-6. All other provisions of
Title 16, excepting Chapter 16.20 governing aircraft traffic patterns, are applicable to ultralight aircraft
operators.
16.32.020 Yielding right-of-way.
In accordance with FAR Part 103, ultralight operators shall maintain vigilance so as to see and avoid
conventional aircraft and shall yield the right-of-way to all conventional aircraft.
16.32.030 Compliance with FAA rules and traffic patterns.
All ultralight aircraft arriving at or departing from the airport shall conform to the FAA rules for operations
at airports without a control tower, including the most current version of FAA AC90-66.
16.32.040 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
Remote pilots and recreational flyers of UAS or drones must be aware of and avoid the aircraft traffic
pattern and takeoff and landings areas of the airport. A UAS or drone must not interfere with operations
at the airport and must follow right of way rules applicable to its operation. This includes, but is not limited
to, 14 CFR 107 for small UAS operations.
CHAPTER 16.36
VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
16.36.010 Penalty for violations.
The City may seek remedies for any violations of this section pursuant to any applicable authorities
including, but not limited to, those contained in Title 1 of the Petaluma Municipal Code
Section 4. Effective Date. The Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after the date of its
adoption by the Petaluma City Council.
Section 5. Severability. If any part of this ordinance is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, unlawful,
or otherwise invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such decision will not affect the validity of the
remaining parts of this ordinance. The City Council of the City of Petaluma hereby declares that it would
have passed and adopted this ordinance and each of its provisions irrespective of any part being held
invalid.
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Section 6. Posting/Publishing of Notice. The City Clerk is hereby directed to post and/or publish this
ordinance or a synopsis of it for the period and in the manner required by the City Charter.
INTRODUCED and ordered published and posted this 7th day of July 2025.
ADOPTED this 21st day of July 2025 by the following vote:
Ayes: McDonnell, Barnacle, Cader Thompson, DeCarli, Nau, Quint, Shribbs
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
Kevin McDonnell, Mayor
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Caitlin Corley, City Clerk Eric Danly, City Attorney
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