Beverly Hills Municipal Code Ch. 2 Fire Code

SECTION:

In addition to the stairway identification sign, raised character and Braille floor identification signs that comply with Chapter 11B shall be located at the landing of each floor level, placed adjacent to the door on the latch side, in all enclosed stairways in buildings two or more stories in height to identify the floor level. At the exit discharge level, the sign shall include a raised five pointed star located to the left of the identifying floor level. The outside diameter of the star shall be the same as the height of the raised characters.

1023.9.1 Signage requirements. Stairway identification signs shall comply with all of the following requirements:

1. The signs shall be a minimum size of 18 inches (457 mm) by 12 inches (305 mm).

2. The letters designating the identification of the interior exit stairway and ramp shall be a minimum of 1-1/2 inches (38 mm) in height.

3. The number designating the floor level shall be a minimum of 5 inches (127 mm) in height with 3/4-inch (19 mm) strokes and located in the center of the sign. The mezzanine levels shall have the letter "M" preceding the floor level. Basement levels shall have the letter "B" preceding the floor number.

4. All other lettering and numbers shall be a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm) in height.

5. The stairway's upper terminus, such as ROOF ACCESS or NO ROOF ACCESS, shall be placed under the stairway identification in 1-inch-high (25 mm) block lettering with 1/4-inch (6 mm) strokes.

6. The lower and upper terminus of the stairway shall be placed at the bottom of the sign in 1-inch-high (25mm) block lettering with 1/4 inch (6 mm) strokes.

7. Characters and their background shall have a nonglare finish. Characters shall contrast with their background, with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background.

8. When signs required by Section 1023.9 are installed in interior exit enclosures of buildings subject to Section 1025, the signs shall be made of the same materials as required by Section 1025.4.

9. Signs shall also be installed on the exterior of all ground level stairway doors.

Section 1031.7 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

The 2025 edition of the California Fire Code as adopted by the California State Fire Marshal, including appendices B, BB, C, CC, D, F, and H, is hereby adopted by reference, subject to the amendments set forth in section 9-2-2, and the same shall be known and may be cited as the Fire Code of the City of Beverly Hills. (Ord. 16-O-2719, eff. 1-20-2017; amd. Ord. 19-O-2793, 11-19-2019; Ord. 22-O-2868, eff. 1-1-2023; Ord. 25-O-2926, eff. 1-1-2026; Ord. 25-O-2929, 12-9- 2025)

The Fire Code adopted pursuant to Section 9-2-l is hereby amended as follows:

Section 101.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

101.1 Title.

These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of the City of Beverly Hills, hereinafter referred to as “this code.”

Section 103.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

103.1 Creation of agency.

The Beverly Hills Fire Department is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

Section 104.2.3, excluding subsections, of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

104.2.3 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment.

The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any materials or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the fire code official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, not less than equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, and safety.

Exception: Deleted

Section 104.2.4 of the California Fire Code is adopted and amended to read as follows:

104.2.4 Modifications. Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the fire code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided the fire code official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the City.

Section 104.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

104.4 Right of entry. Whenever it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or whenever the fire code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon any premises any conditions or violations of this code which make the building or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the fire code official shall have the authority to enter the building or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the fire code official by this code. If such building or premises is occupied, the fire code official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such building or premises is unoccupied, the fire code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. If entry is refused, the fire code official has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.

104.4.1 Warrant. When the fire code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner or occupant or person having charge, care or control of the building or premises shall not fail or neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to permit entry therein by the fire code official for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.”

Section 104.11.4 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

104.11.4. Financial Responsibility. Any person who personally, or through another, willfully, negligently, or in violation of law, sets a fire, allows a fire to be set, or allows a fire kindled or attended by him/her to escape from his/her control, allows any hazardous material to be handled, stored, disposed, of, or transported in a manner not in accordance with this Code, State law or nationally recognized Standards, allows any hazardous materials to escape from his/her control, allows continuation of a violation of this Code is liable for the expense of fighting the fire including fire investigation or for the expenses incurred during a hazardous materials incident, and such expense will be charged against that person.

Section 104.12 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

104.12 Fire prevention bureau personnel and police. The chief and members of the Community Risk Reduction shall each have the powers of a peace officer in performing their duties under this code as follows:

1. Members of the fire department may act as peace officers only as permitted by section 830.37 of the California Penal Code. All members of the fire department with the rank of captain or above and all members of the Community Risk Reduction who are peace officers as defined in section 830.37 of the Penal Code and members who have been designated by the fire chief as arson investigators and who have satisfactorily completed the courses of training required by section 832 of the Penal Code are designated as peace officers for the purposes of section 171c, 171d, 25450, 25455 and 25850 of the Penal Code while engaged as members of an arson investigating unit, regularly employed and paid as such, in the detection and apprehension of persons who have violated or who are suspected of having violated any fire law, or while exclusively engaged in the enforcement of law as relating to fire prevention and fire suppression.

2. When requested to do so by the chief, the chief of police is authorized to assign such available peace officers as necessary to assist the fire department in enforcing the provisions of this code.

Section 105.5.9 and Table 105.5.9 of the California Fire Code are amended to read as follows:

105.5.9 Compressed Gases. An operational permit is required for the storage, use, or handling at normal temperature or pressure (NTP) of compressed gases in excess of the amounts listed in Table 105.5.9. A permit is also required to perform an inventory/survey to verify compliance with the maximum allowable quantities of compressed gases for non-fixed (portable) or fixed operational systems, when required by the AHJ.

Exception: Vehicles equipped for and using compressed gas as a fuel for propelling the vehicle

TABLE 105.5.9

PERMIT AMOUNTS FOR COMPRESSED GASES

For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.

Section 105.5.51 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

105.5.51 Temporary membrane structures, special event structures, and tents

A special fire permit is required to operate a temporary membrane structure, special event structure, or tent having an area in excess of 40 square feet in accordance with section 105.6.25.

Section 105.5.60 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

105.5.60 Special Fire Permits. The following special fire permits are required for events in the City of Beverly Hills as deemed necessary by the Fire Code Official.

105.5.60.1 Liquid Propane Gas. A Special Fire Permit is required for storage and use of liquid propane gas.

105.5.60.2 Candles. A Special Fire Permit is required for any candle(s) used.

105.5.60.3 Places of Assembly. A Special Fire Permit event is required for any event related Assembly

105.5.60.4 Pyrotechnic Special Effects Materials. A Special Fire Permit is required for any Pyrotechnic Special Effects Materials used as required by sections 105.5.44 and 5601.1.3.

105.5.60.5 Temporary Membrane Structure and Tent. A Special Fire Permit is required for any temporary membrane structure or tent that exceeds 40 square feet as required by sections 105.5.51 and 105.6.25

105.5.60.6 Drapery or Decorative Material. A Special Fire Permit is required for the installation of any drapery or fabric.

Exception. Chair and table cloth fabric and drapery only.

105.5.60.7 Vehicle Display. A special fire permit is required for all temporary vehicle displayed indoors; and outdoor vehicle displays that affects health and safety standards.

Section 108.1 of the California Fire Code is adopted and amended to read as follows:

108.1 Fees. A permit, required by this code, shall not be issued until the fees have been paid to the City, nor shall an amendment to a permit be released until the additional fee, if any, has been paid in accordance with the adopted schedule of fees and charges.”

The Beverly Hills Fire Department is authorized to charge, invoice fees for permits and other services, including the review of any plans, documents, new and existing commercial inspections or any other fire department related services. Fees shall be paid by the applicant prior to issuance of permits or performance of services. The Fire Department fees shall be subject to change based upon the current fee resolution.

Section 108.6 of the California fire code is adopted and amended to read as follows:

108.6 Refunds. The applicable governing authority is authorized to establish a refund policy. The refund policy shall be as is established by section 9-1-110 of the Beverly Hills Administrative Code.”

Section 109.1 of the California Fire Code is adopted, without modification, to read as follows:

109.1 Inspection authority. The fire code official is authorized to enter and examine any building, structure, marine vessel, vehicle or premises in accordance with Section 104.4 for the purpose of enforcing this code.

Section 109.2.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

109.2.3 Annual inspection. All properties located in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone as identified by the Beverly Hills Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall be inspected annually for compliance with state and local brush clearance requirements by the Fire Official.

All B and M occupancies and other occupancies as determined by the Fire Code official, shall be inspected at least once in a 2 year period, but not more than once a year for state and local fire life safety requirements by the Fire Code Official. Certain occupancies, as determined by the Fire Code Official, shall be inspected annually.

Exception: Compliance Verification Inspections frequency to be determined by the Fire Official as needed.”

Section 110.3 of the California Fire Code is adopted without modification to read as follows:

110.3 Recordkeeping. A record of periodic inspections, tests, servicing and other operations and maintenance shall be maintained on the premises or other approved location for not less than 3 years, or a different period of time where specified in this code or referenced standards. Records shall be made available for inspection by the fire code official, and a copy of the records shall be provided to the fire code official upon request.

The fire code official is authorized to prescribe the form and format of such recordkeeping. The fire code official is authorized to require that certain required records be filed with the fire code official.

Section 113.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

113.4 Violation penalties and citations. Persons operating or maintaining an occupancy, premises, vehicle, or performing work which requires a permit by this code, who allow a hazard to exist or fail to take immediate action to abate a hazard on such occupancy, premises, or vehicle or who fail to obtain a permit prior to start of work which requires such a permit under this code, when ordered or notified to do so by the chief, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

113.4.1 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct, or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct business, or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.”

Section 115.1.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

115.1.3 Warning signs. Whenever the chief shall determine that warning signs are required in the protection of persons or property from injury due to unauthorized entry into dangerous structures or buildings, he shall order such buildings or structures adequately posted with signs reading, "WARNING UNSAFE DO NOT ENTER BY ORDER OF THE BEVERLY HILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT."

It shall be unlawful for any person to enter or remain within any such posted structures or building, except that public officers acting in the course of duty, and representatives of public or private utilities, shall be exempt from the provisions of this section.”

Chapter 3 of the California Fire Code is adopted in its entirety excluding sections 307.2, 310, and 315.2.

Section 304.1.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

304.1.3 Vegetation. Weeds, grass, vines, trees, or other growth that is known to be flammable and capable of being ignited and endangering property, shall be cut down and removed by the owner or occupant of the premises when determined by the fire code official. Vegetation clearance requirements shall be in accordance with BHMC Article 17 and the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code.

[California Code of Regulation, Title 19, Division 1, §3.07(b)] Clearances.

(b) Ground Clearance. The space surrounding every building or structure shall be maintained in accordance with the following: Any person that owns, leases, controls, operates, or maintains any building or structure in, upon, or adjoining any mountainous area or forest-covered lands, brush covered lands, or grass-covered lands, or any land which is covered with flammable material, shall at all times do all of the following:

(1) Maintain around and adjacent to such building or structure a firebreak made by removing and clearing away, for a distance of not less than 30 feet on each side thereof or to the property line, whichever is nearer, all flammable vegetation or other combustible growth. This section does not apply to single specimens of trees, ornamental shrubbery, or similar plants which are used as ground cover, if they do not form a means of rapidly transmitting fire from the native growth to any building or structure.

(2) Maintain around and adjacent to any such building or structure additional fire protection or firebreak made by removing all bush, flammable vegetation, or combustible growth which is located from 30 feet to 100 feet from such building or structure or to the property line, whichever is nearer, as may be required by the enforcing agency if he finds that, because of extra hazardous conditions, a firebreak of only 30 feet around such building or structure is not sufficient to provide reasonable fire safety. Grass and other vegetation located more than 30 feet from such building or structure and less than 18 inches in height above the ground may be maintained where necessary to stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.

(3) Remove that portion of any tree which extends within 10 feet of the outlet of any chimney or stovepipe.

(4) Cut and remove all dead or dying portions of trees located adjacent to or overhanging any building.

(5) Maintain the roof of any structure free of leaves, needles, or other dead vegetative growth.

(6) Provide and maintain at all times a screen over the outlet of every chimney or stovepipe that is attached to any fireplace, stove, or other device that burns any solid or liquid fuel. The screen shall be constructed of nonflammable material with openings of not more than ½ inch in size.

(7) Hazardous vegetation and fuels around all applicable buildings and structures shall be maintained in accordance with the following laws and regulations:

(A) Public Resources Code Section 4291;

(B) California Code of Regulations Title 14 – Natural Resources, Division 1.5 – Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, “General Guideline to Create Defensible Space”);

(C) California Government Code Section 51182;

(D) California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, Chapter 49.

Section 308.1.11 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

308.1.11 Open flame gas fired decorative torches. Open flame decorative appliances shall comply with section 308.2 and the following requirements:

308.1.11.1 Installation.

1. All torch burner heads shall be approved by the Fire Department and shall be listed by an approved testing laboratory or agency. Torch burner heads shall be installed a minimum of eight feet from the ground level.

2. A radius of ten feet shall be maintained between the torch burner and combustible materials, including all vegetation.

3. Torch flames shall not exceed 24" inches in length, except by special approval of the Fire Department. Every burner shall be equipped with an approved automatic pilot light and manually controlled shutoff valve located in the main gas supply line.

4. An approved shutoff valve shall be located at or near the base of the torch, and a labeled secondary shutoff valve shall be located at an easily accessible remote location.

5. Minimum pipe size of torch standard shall be 1 inch. If length of torch standard exceeds 8 feet, pipe size shall be not less than 1 ½ inches.

6. If torch is exposed to mechanical damage or vehicular traffic, adequate protection shall be provided. Torch standards mounted on the ground shall be imbedded 12 inches into a 15 inch cube of concrete or such other standards that will resist equal force.

Section 308.1.12 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

308.1.12 Approved Gas Fire Pits. Gas Fire pits shall have a minimum 10-foot perimeter clearance from structures, vegetation or other combustible materials. No solid fuel burning shall take place in a fire pit. Fire pits shall be no larger than a 3-foot in diameter and constructed of noncombustible material.

Section 308.1.13 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

308.1.13 Approved Fixed Gas Decorative Fire Features. Fixed gas decorative fire features that are not classified as chimney’s, fire pits, BBQ’s or portable fueled open flame equipment shall have a minimum 10-foot perimeter clearance from combustible portions of structures, vegetation or any other combustible materials. Decorative fire features shall operate only with natural gas and shall have a shut-off valve.

Section 308.1.14 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

308.1.14 Open flame gas fired decorative torches. Open flame decorative appliances shall comply with section 308.1.14 and the following approval and permit requirements:

1. Applicant shall first apply to the Beverly Hills Community Development Department, Building and Safety for a permit application, and submit two (2) sets of scale drawings, showing building, property line and public ways. Location of remote shutoff valves should also be shown.

2. Applicant shall submit one (1) copy of plans to the Fire Department for approval. The torch location, piping, shut offs and clearances shall be shown.

3. If the torch body or flame extends over a public street or sidewalk, applicant shall submit plans for approval to the Community Development Department, Building and Safety.

4. Any electrical wiring shall be installed in compliance with an electrical permit obtained from Community Development Department, Building and Safety division.”

Section 503 of the California Fire Code is adopted without modification.

Section 504.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

504.1 Required Access. Exterior doors and openings required by this code or the California Building Code shall be maintained readily accessible for emergency access by the fire department. An approved access walkway leading from fire apparatus access roads to exterior openings shall be provided where required by the fire code official. All exterior access doors shall have locks with exterior key access and an approved, exterior, door opening hardware, including handle or lever. Keys for required access shall be made readily available with a fire department Knox box.

[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1,§3.05(b)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roofs)

(b) Roofs. No person shall install or maintain any security barrier such as barbed wire fencing, razor wire fencing, chain link fencing or any other fencing material, cable, aerial, antenna or other obstruction on the roof of any commercial establishment in such a manner as to obstruct or render egress or access hazardous in the event of fire or other emergency.

Exception: Guy wire, rods and aerial antenna masts may be attached to a roof structure having a slope of less than 30 degrees provided there is full clearance of seven feet or more between the roof and said obstruction. Guy wire or rods required to support aerial or antenna masts may be attached to a roof structure a lateral distance from the mast not in excess of one-sixth the height of the mast.

Section 505.1 of the California Fire Code is adopted and amended to read as follows:

505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification, numbers or letters. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height for residential properties and a minimum of 6 inches high for non-residential properties and not less than 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) in width. They shall be installed on a contrasting background, on private property, and be plainly visible from the street or road fronting the property. When required by the city fire code official, address numbers shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building address cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other approved sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address numbers shall also comply with BHFD Premise Identification Standard 19-002.

505.1.1 Building numbering requirements. The entrances to all buildings from public streets shall have the numbers designated by the city building official conspicuously displayed near the entrance of the structure in a manner that they are is visible from the street or road. In commercial locations where vehicles can obstruct addressing due to curb side parking, numbers shall be placed a minimum height of 8 feet from finished floor or as approved by fire code official. Structures which have access from a rear alley, in addition to the numbering required by this section, shall for purposes of emergency response, provide numbering and street identification which is clearly visible from the rear alley access in accordance with the following provisions:

1. The name of the street and street number as assigned by the city building official shall be visible from the alley and located adjacent to the alley access to the structure.

2. The address markings shall be placed five (5') feet above the alley surface, with numbers four (4") inches in height and letters two (2") inches in height, and placed upon the structure, wall, fence, gate, or other appropriate surface so as to be clearly visible.

3. If any property owner shall fail to provide the address identification required by this subsection on the premises, the city may provide and affix such address identification markings at no cost to the property owner. Where identification markings are provided by the city, no person shall remove, deface, or modify such markings without the written authorization of the city fire code official.

4. When structure access doors are available from the alley or side street for a single tenant or occupant, the door shall be provided with address numbering and street name identification including unit numbers or letters in a manner approved by the city fire code official.

505.1.2 Directory. For complexes or commercial buildings 2 stories or greater, a directory or premise map with approved addressing shall be installed and maintained at a location and in a format as approved by the fire code official and shall also comply with the most current version of the BHFD Premise Identification Standard 19-002.

Section 506.1.3 of the California Fire Code is added to read as follows:

506.1.3 Locks and key switches. An approved key switch or pad lock shall be installed on motorized or lockable gates, perimeter fencing or similar barricades that obstruct access to a property when required by the fire code official. Knox switches, padlocks, and boxes shall also comply with the most current version of the BHFD Knox Box Standard 19-001.

Section 510.5 of the California Fire Code, excluding subsections, is amended to read as follows:

510.5 Installation Requirements. The installation of the in building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage system shall be in accordance with NFPA 1225, and Sections 510.5.1 through 510.5.4, and the most current version of the Beverly Hills Fire Department Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Standard 19-005.

Subsection 901.2.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

901.2.2 Hydraulic water calculations. All fire sprinkler systems shall be designed with a 10% safety factor for hydraulic water calculations. Water Flow Test reports over 12 months shall be subject to a current flow test report as required by the Fire Code Official.

Subsection 901.4.3.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

901.4.3.1 Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance. For permitted alterations, all required Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance (required certifications) of all existing fire and life safety systems shall be completed prior to final inspection.

Fire Life safety systems shall include but are not limited to: Fire Sprinklers, Fire Alarm, Standpipe, Fire Pumps, Pre-engineered Systems, Smoke Control Systems, or any other similar fire protection systems.

Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code, excluding subsections, is amended to read as follows:

901.7 Systems out of Service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service, the fire code official shall be notified immediately. Where required by the fire code official, the building shall be either evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for the building until the fire protection system has been returned to service and verified by the Fire Code Official. Fire watch shall comply with the most current edition of the City of Beverly Hills Fire Watch Standard 19-003.

Section 903.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

903.2 Where required.

A. New Buildings. Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be required for all occupancies, except detached storage sheds that are less than five hundred (500) square feet which do not store motor vehicles.

B. Existing Buildings. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be required in all existing buildings if: (i) additions, alterations or repairs are made within any twelve (12) month period which exceed fifty percent (50%) of the value of such existing building, (ii) an addition is constructed which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the square footage of the existing building, or (iii) an addition of more than five thousand (5,000) square feet is constructed.

C. Specific Occupancies. Areas occupied by the following occupancies shall have an approved fire sprinkler system installed:

1. Throughout all existing eating establishments having a floor area in excess of three thousand (3,000) square feet, including all related floor area including but not limited to food preparation and waiting areas.

2. Throughout bowling alleys.

3. Throughout public assembly occupancies having an occupant load of three hundred (300) or more persons. If such occupancies are located above the first floor, the floors below shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system; provided further, public assembly occupancies of three hundred (300) or more persons placed in buildings existing prior to August 19, 1976, shall not be required to provide an automatic fire-extinguishing system in floors below such occupancy.

4. Throughout hotels except those areas used exclusively for lodging.

5. Throughout retail sales rooms classified as group M and S occupancies if the floor area of all floors exceeds twelve thousand (12,000) square feet, and in group M and S retail sales and storage occupancies more than three (3) stories in height, and in group M and S occupancies, if such occupancies are located within the same building or structure as group R-l occupancies. The area of mezzanines shall be included in determining the areas where sprinklers are required.

6. Nightclubs and discos in rooms primarily used for entertaining occupants who are drinking or dining and unseparated accessory uses where the total area of such unseparated rooms and assembly uses exceeds three thousand (3,000) square feet. For uses to be considered “separated,” the separation shall be not less than is required for a one-hour occupancy separation.

7. In every story or basement of all buildings if the floor area exceeds fifteen hundred (1,500) square feet and there is not provided at least twenty (20) square feet of opening entirely above the adjoining ground level in each 50 linear feet or fraction thereof of exterior wall in the story or basement on at least one side of the building. Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than thirty (30) inches. Such openings shall be accessible to the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner that firefighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior. When openings in a story are provided on only one side and the opposite wall of such story is more than seventy-five (75) feet from such openings, the story shall be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system, or openings as specified above shall be provided on at least two sides of an exterior wall of the story.

D. Approved automatic sprinkler systems shall be required for new Ambulatory Health Care Facilities (as that term is defined herein) located in an existing building or portion thereof, and that are classified as a Business Group B or Institutional Group 1-2.1 occupancy.

Section 903.2.1 through 903.2.10 of the California Fire Code (and the subsections therein) are hereby deleted in their entirety, except 903.2.1.6.

Section 903.2.1.6 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

903.2.1.6 Assembly occupancies on roofs. Where an occupied roof has an assembly occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 49 or Group A-2 and 300 for other Group A occupancies, all floors between the occupied roof and the level of exit discharge shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

Section 903.2.11 of the California Fire Code, excluding subsections, is amended to read as follows:

903.2.11 Specific building areas and hazards. In all occupancies an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the location set forth in Section 903.2.11.2, and 903.2.11.4 through 903.2.11.9.

Sections 903.2.11.1, 903.2.11.1.1, 903.2.11.1.2, 903.2.11.1.3 and 903.2.11.3 of the California Fire code are hereby deleted in their entirety. Section 903.2.11.7 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.2.11.7 Storage and use of nitrate film. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new and existing rooms where nitrate film is stored and handled.”

Section 903.2.11.8 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.2.11.8 Fiber storage vaults. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in new and existing combustible fiber storage vaults as defined in the fire code.

Section 903.2.11.9 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.2.11.9 Bowling alleys. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all new and existing bowling alleys.

Section 903.3.1.1.5 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.3.1.1.5 Backflow Assembly for NFPA 13 Systems. An approved backflow assembly (DCDA, DCVA, or RPZ) shall be provided to all new or modified NFPA 13 systems.”

Section 903.3.1.2 of the California Fire Code, excluding subsections, is amended to read as follows:

903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R Sprinkler Systems. This section including subsections are deleted. NFPA 13R systems are not allowed in the City of Beverly Hills.

Sections 903.3.1.2.1, 903.3.1.2.2 and 903.3.1.2.3 of the California Fire Code, are deleted.

Section 903.3.1.3.1 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.3.1.3.1 Double check valve. Two check valves are required to be installed to all new or modified NFPA 13D systems.

Section 903.3.1.3.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.3.1.3.2 Additional NFPA 13D Requirements. For new or modified fire sprinklers systems, each separate structure shall include the following:

1. Fire sprinkler riser assembly, including a main control valve, separate domestic valve, pressure gauge, water-flow switch and Identification signage.

2. Exterior Horn strobe located street facing on the address side at a minimum of 8 feet in height and unobstructed, or location approved by the fire code official

3. Sprinkler Box with spare sprinklers and wrench in an approved location.”

Section 903.3.1.3.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.3.1.3.3 GPM Test. A GPM test shall be required on all new NFPA 13D systems for structures 10,000 square feet or greater. Any existing NFPA 13D system with modifications, alterations or additions is subject to a GPM test as requested by the fire code official.

Section 903.3.10 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

903.3.10 Floor Control Valves. Floor control valves, waterflow detection, and check valve assemblies shall be installed at each floor where any of the following occur:

1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

2. Buildings that are three or more stories in height.

3. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

Exception: Group R-3 & R-3 .1 occupancies floor control valves and, waterflow detection assemblies shall not be required.

Section 903.3.11 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

903.3.11 Exterior Projections. Sprinklers shall be provided for exterior canopies, roofs, porte-cocheres, loading docks, balconies, decks and similar projections that exceed 4 feet to newly constructed or to modified existing sprinklered buildings.

Balconies and decks built onto a non-sprinklered structure that projects outward more than 4 feet of exterior wall of the floor immediately below the projection shall be sprinklered.

Section 903.4 of the California Fire Code, excluding subsections, is amended to read as follows:

Section 903.4 Sprinkler system supervision and alarms.

All valves controlling the water supply for NFPA 13 and 13D automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures, and water-flow switches on all NFPA 13 and 13D sprinkler systems shall have all valves locked in the open position as required by the Fire Official and be electrically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit. Where the combination of new and existing sprinkler systems totaling 6 sprinkler heads or more on one property are being modified or altered, the entire sprinkler system shall be monitored off-site by an approved Supervising Station (Central, Remote or Proprietary)

Exceptions:

1. New and existing sprinkler systems with a combined total of 5 heads or less on one property.

2. Electrical supervision of valves on 13D systems shall not be required.

Section 903.4.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

903.4.3 Alarms. Approved interior audible and audible /visual devices shall be connected to every 13 and 13D automatic sprinkler system in approved location(s). Bells shall not be installed and existing bells shall be replaced when the system is modified unless approved by the fire code official.

One exterior approved audible and visible alarm notification device, listed for outdoor use, shall be provided and connected to each NFPA 13 and NFPA 13D automatic sprinkler system. The device shall be located on the exterior of the building, a minimum of 8 feet from finished floor, free from obstructions, street facing and address side, or as approved by the fire code official. Structures not visible from the street shall require an additional exterior notification device as required by the fire code official. Such sprinkler water-flow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a fire alarm system is installed, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required except when required by this Section and Section 907.5.2.

Section 905.12 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

905.12 Existing buildings. Existing structures with occupied floors located 3 or more stories above or below the lowest level of fire department access shall be equipped with standpipes installed in accordance with section 905. The standpipes shall have an approved fire department connection with hose connections at each floor level above or below the lowest level of fire department access. The fire code official is authorized to approve the installation of manual standpipe systems to achieve compliance with this section where the responding fire department is capable of providing the required hose flow at the highest standpipe outlet.

Section 907.2.11, excluding subsections, of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

Section 907.2.11 Single- and Multiple-Station Smoke alarms.

Listed Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL217 for all new and existing R-occupancies shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.9.2 and NFPA 72.

Section 907.2.11.5 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

907.2.11.5 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit in Group R occupancies, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected in such a manner that the activation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit. Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all alarms sound upon activation. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed. When low-voltage systems are required, the fire official may require additional sounder bases installed. Low voltage systems shall be installed per NFPA 72 fire alarm system requirements.

Exceptions:

1. Interconnection is not required in buildings which are not undergoing alterations, repairs or construction of any kind.

2. Smoke alarms in existing areas are not required to be interconnected where alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available which could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.

Section 907.2.11.6 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

Section 907.2.11.6 Power source.

In existing construction, new construction, and in newly classified group R occupancies, required smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring where such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than as required for overcurrent protection.

Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be equipped with battery backup where they are connected to an emergency electrical system that complies with section 1203.

Section 907.5 of the California Fire Code, excluding subsections, is amended to read as follows:

907.5 Occupant Notification Systems. A fire alarm system and sprinkler monitoring system shall annunciate at the fire alarm control unit and shall initiate occupant notification upon activation, in accordance with Section 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.3.1 and 907.5.2.6. Where a fire alarm system and fire monitoring system is required by another section of this code, it shall be activated by:

• 1. Automatic fire detectors.
• 2. Automatic sprinkler system waterflow devices.
• 3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
• 4. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.

Exception: Where notification systems are allowed elsewhere in Section 907 to annunciate at a constantly attended location.

Section 907.5.1.2 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

907.5.1.2 Redundant Fire Alarm Systems. Each fire sprinkler system shall have only one fire alarm panel which will be accessible to the fire department at all times. Redundant fire alarm panels shall be removed unless otherwise approved by the AHJ.

Section 907.5.2.6 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

907.5.1.3 Additional Notifications Appliance Location. Approved audible and visible or visible devices shall be connected to every new or modified NFPA 13D automatic sprinkler system in an approved location(s). Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in all occupied rooms where ambient noise impairs hearing of the fire alarm including but not limited to residential home theaters, gyms, indoor activity rooms other rooms with similar uses that can impair notification.

Approved audible/visible or visible devices shall be connected to every new or modified NFPA 13 automatic sprinkler system in an approved location(s). Audible/visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in all occupied rooms where ambient noise impairs hearing of the fire alarm including but not limited to public dressing, changing or fitting rooms with full height doors or curtains that obstruct seeing the visible notification appliances, or businesses with rooms where patients await medical care or consultation is provided, exterior common uses area or as approved by the fire code official.

Section 907.6.3.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

907.6.3.1 Annunciation. The initiating device status shall be annunciated only at the following approved locations by fire code official; near main entrance, lobby, fire control room, staffed security station or additional units with different addresses from reporting panel. Additional annunciator panels can be required at other locations per the fire code official.

Section 1008.2 of the California Fire Code , excluding subsections 1008.2.1 through 1008.2.4, is amended to read as follows:

The means of egress serving a room or space shall be illuminated at all times that the room or space is occupied.

Exceptions:

1. Not adopted

2. Self-service storage units 400 square feet or less in area and accessed directly from the exterior of the building.

• 3. Aisle accessways in Group A
• 4. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Groups R-1, R-2 and R-3.
• 5. Sleeping Units in Group I, R-2.1 and R-4 occupancies.

Section 1008.3, excluding subsections, of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

An emergency electrical system shall be provided to automatically illuminate the following areas in the event of a power supply failure:

• 1. In rooms or spaces that require two or more means of egress:

• 1.1. Aisles.

• 1.2. Corridors.

• 1.3. Exit access stairways and ramps.

• 1.4. Parking Structures

• 2. In buildings that require two or more exits or access to exits:

• 2.1. Interior exit access stairways and ramps.

• 2.2. Interior and exterior exit stairways and ramps.

• 2.3. Exit passageways.

Group I-2 exit discharge stairways, ramps, aisles, walkways and escalators leading to a public way or to a safe dispersal area in accordance with Section 1028.5.

• 3. In other rooms and spaces:

• 3.1. Electrical equipment rooms.

• 3.2. Fire command centers.

• 3.3. Fire pump rooms.

• 3.4. Generator rooms.

• 3.5. Public restrooms with an area greater than 300 square feet (27.87 m 2 ).

4. Group I-2 exit discharge stairways, ramps, aisles, walkways and escalators leading to a public way or to a safe dispersal area in accordance with Section 1028.5.

Section 1010.2.11.1 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

1010.2.11.1 Access-controlled elevator lobby egress doors in mid-rise and high-rise. When approved by the fire official, the entrance doors within an elevator lobby in a means of egress of midrise and highrise buildings serving offices that are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and an approved automatic smoke detection system installed in accordance with Section 907, are permitted to be equipped with an approved entrance and egress access control system which shall be installed in accordance with all of the following criteria:

1. The building is provided throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

2. A smoke detector is installed on the ceiling on the tenant side of the elevator lobby doors along the center line of the door opening, not less than 1 foot and not more than 5 feet from the door opening, and is connected to the fire alarm system.

3. A remote master switch capable of unlocking the elevator lobby doors shall be provided in the fire command center for use by the fire department.

4. Locks for the elevator lobby shall be UL and California State Fire Marshal listed fail-safe type locking mechanisms. The locking device shall automatically release on activation of any fire alarm device on the floor of alarm (waterflow, smoke detector, manual pull station, etc.) All locking devices shall unlock, but not unlatch, upon activation.

5. A two-way voice communication system, utilizing dedicated lines, shall be provided from each locked elevator lobby to the 24-hour staffed location on site, annunciated as to location. Operating instructions shall be posted above each two-way communication device.

Exception: When approved by the fire chief, two-way voice communication system to an off-site facility may be permitted where means to remotely unlock the access controlled doors from the off-site facility are provided.

When permission has been granted for the use of an off-site facility, the property manager is responsible to inform, coordinate, and ensure all tenants within the building(s) are served by the same off-site facility with and the release button located at the fire control panel.

6. Provide an approved momentary mushroom shaped palm button connected to the doors and installed adjacent to each locked elevator lobby exit door which will release the door locks when operated by an individual in the elevator lobby. The locks shall be reset manually at the door. Mount palm button so that center line is 48 inches (1219 mm) above finish door. Stairwell doors that electronically lock shall have a master release button located in the Fire Control Room.

Provide a sign stating:

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, PUSH PALM

BUTTON. DOOR WILL UNLOCK AND

SECURITY ALARM WILL SOUND.

PROCEED TO EXIT.

The sign lettering shall be 3/4-inch (19.1 mm) high letters by 1/8-inch (3.2 mm) width stroke on a contrasting background.

7. Loss of power to that part of the access control system which locks the doors shall automatically unlock the doors.

Section 1023.9 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

The Building Official or Fire Official may require unsafe means of egress requirements to comply with Section 1006, when the minimum number of exists are not readily available or are restricted during an emergency.

Section 1104.16, excluding subsections, of the California Fire Code is adopted and amended to read as follows:

Fire escape stairways shall comply with Sections 1104.16.1 through 1104.16.8.

Section 1104.16.7 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

1104.16.7 Fire Escape Examination. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be examined for structural adequacy and safety in accordance with Section 1104.16.5 by a registered design professional or others acceptable to the fire code official every 5 years, or as required by the fire code official. An inspection report shall be submitted to the fire code official after such examination.

Section 1104.16.8 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

1104.16.8 Fire Escape Maintenance. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be kept clear and unobstructed at all times and shall be maintained in a good working order.

Section 1203.5.3 is added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

1203.5.3. State mandated annual hi-rise inspections. During all state mandated annual hi-rise inspections, main power shall be disconnected from the building, and the on-site stand-by or emergency generator shall be run during the entire inspection to verify transfer switch operation and the illumination of all exit signs, means of egress lighting, and all other emergency power loads.

Section 3103.2 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

Tents and membrane structures having an area in excess of forty (40) square feet and canopies in excess of forty (40) square feet shall not be erected, operated or maintained for any purpose without first obtaining a permit and approval from the fire code official. Any tent, canopy or temporary membrane structure that is bonded together or closer than 5 feet shall combine total aggregate square footage and be considered as 1 unit.

Section 3103.4 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

Temporary tents, awnings, canopies, or membrane structures in excess of forty (40) square feet shall not be erected for a period of more than ten (10) days unless authorized by the Fire Code Official.

Section 3103.5 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

A detailed site and floor plan for tents or membrane structure 40 square feet or more shall be provided with each application for approval. Applications for approval shall be provided to the reviewing authority 10 days before the tent or membrane structure is to be erected. The tent or membrane structure floor plan shall indicate details of means of egress, location of fire extinguisher(s), seating capacity, arrangement of the seating and location and type of heating and electrical equipment. The construction documents shall include an analysis of structural stability.

Section 4104.2 of the California Fire Code is deleted.

Sections 5306.6 and 5306.7 are added to the California Fire Code to read as follows:

Permanent signage shall be required for all Med Gas rooms and storage areas. Signage shall be a minimum size of 12” X 12” with letters no less than 1-inch in height and located on the exterior portion of the door. Sign shall include the following:

• 1. NFPA 704 placard.
• 2. No smoking or open flame permitted.
• 3. No additional storage permitted.
• 4. Approved maximum quantities of each compressed gas listed on approved plans.
• 5. No additional gases permitted without City approval.
• 6. Last permit number posted.

Any new or altered facility using compressed medical gas systems shall verify compliance with the maximum allowable quantities per Chapter 50 of the California Fire Code. A survey shall be performed of each individual tenant in the building identifying the type and amount of medical gases being stored in the building for both fixed and portable systems. The survey shall be conducted in compliance with Section 105.5.9. The owner or representative of the building is responsible to perform the survey. This survey shall be completed and submitted at the time of application for a building permit.

Section 5601.1.3 of the California Fire Code is amended to read as follows:

5601.1.3 Fireworks prohibited. No person shall manufacture, store, offer for sale or discharge any fireworks in the city.

Exception: Permitted and approved fireworks in conjunction with city sponsored event. (Ord. 25-O-2026, 10-28-2025; amd. Ord. 25-O-2929, 12-9- 2025)