California Code of Regulations
Title 21 - Public Works
Division 2.5 - Division of Aeronautics (Department of Transportation)
Chapter 2 - Airports and Heliports
Article 4 - Design Standards, Heliports Only
Section 3551 - Heliport Design Standards

Universal Citation: 21 CA Code of Regs 3551

Current through Register 2024 Notice Reg. No. 38, September 20, 2024

As a minimum, the following items are required for a permitted heliport:

(a) final approach and takeoff area (FATO) with:

(1) a length and width or diameter that is at least one and one half times the overall length of the design helicopter. This area shall be free of objects, to include safety nets and guard rails, at or above the closest point of the touchdown and lift-off area (TLOF);

(2) a safety area, surrounding the FATO, that is the greater of one third times the main rotor diameter of the design helicopter or ten feet; and

(3) a load bearing portion that:
(A) is centered within the FATO and, if the entire FATO is not load bearing, is delineated as a TLOF. A delineated TLOF shall be at least 1.5 times the undercarriage length or width, whichever is greater, of the design helicopter;

(B) is free of objects and surface irregularities; and

(C) has a grade that does not exceed 2%. If approved by the Department, the grade may exceed 2% to allow for a curb around the edges so long as the curb is tapered so that it does not present a sharp lip that could create a pivot point for a helicopter's landing gear. If allowed, this curb shall not exceed two inches in height;

(b) a wind cone;

(c) at least one clear 8:1 approach surface to the FATO, centered along an approach/takeoff path;

(d) heliport markings as described in Section 3554(a) of these regulations;

(e) clear 2:1 transitional surfaces to the FATO and approach surfaces; and

(f) if night use is planned, heliport lighting in accordance with Section 3554(b) of these regulations.

1. Amendment filed 4-25-80; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 80, No. 17).
2. Repealer and new section filed 12-14-88; operative 1-1-89 (Register 88, No. 53).
3. Amendment of section heading and repealer and new section filed 3-21-97; operative 4-20-97 (Register 97, No. 12).

Note: Authority cited: Sections 21243 and 21253, Public Utilities Code. Reference: Sections 21661- 21668.2, Public Utilities Code.

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