Chapter 11 — CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
Section 1103
California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) · 2022 edition · updated 2026-09-10 · California
CBSC: official editions, supplements and errata
Italicized text is a California amendment to the model code, as printed in the official publication.
FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1103.1 Required construction. Existing buildings shall¶
comply with not less than the minimum provisions specified
in Table 1103.1 and as further enumerated in Sections 1103.2 through 1103.10.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to allow the elimination of fire protection systems or a reduction in the level of fire safety provided in buildings constructed in accordance with previously adopted codes.
Exceptions:
- Where a change in fire-resistance rating has been approved in accordance with Section 501.2 or 802.6 of the California Existing Building Code .
- Group U occupancies. 1103.1.1 Historic buildings. Facilities designated as historic buildings shall develop a fire protection plan in accordance with NFPA 914. The fire protection plans shall comply with the maintenance and availability provisions in Sections 404.3 and 404.4.
1103.2 Emergency responder communication coverage in¶
existing buildings. Existing buildings other than Group R-3, that do not have approved in-building, two-way emergency response communication coverage for emergency responders in the building based on existing coverage levels of the public safety communication systems, shall be equipped with such coverage according to one of the following:
- Where an existing wired communication system cannot be repaired or is being replaced, or where not approved in accordance with Section 510.1, Exception 1.
- Within a time frame established by the adopting authority. Exception: Where it is determined by the fire code official that the in-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage system is not needed.
1103.3 Existing elevators. In other than Group R-3, existing¶
elevators, escalators and moving walks shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1103.3.1 and 1103.3.3.
1103.3.1 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Existing elevators, escalators and moving walks in Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies and serving ambulatory care facilities shall comply with California Code of Regula- tions, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.
1103.3.2 Elevator emergency operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the main floor or other level of a building
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
TABLE 1103.1 OCCUPANCY AND USE REQUIREMENTS a
| SECTION | USE | OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SECTION | High-rise | Atrium or covered mall |
Under- ground building |
Tire storage |
A | B | E | F | H-1 | H-2 | H-3 | H-4 | H-5 | I-2 | I-3 | I-4 | M | R-1 | R-2 | R-3 | R-4 | S |
| 1103.2 | R | R | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R |
| 1103.3 | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R |
| 1103.4.1 | R | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.4.2 | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R | R | R | R | — | — | R |
| 1103.4.3 | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R | R | R | R | — | — | R |
| 1103.4.4 | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.4.5 | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.4.6 | — | — | — | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | R | R | R | R | R |
| 1103.4.7 | — | — | — | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | R | R | R | R | R |
| 1103.4.8 | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R |
| 1103.4.9 | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.4.10 | — | — | — | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R |
| 1103.5.1 | — | — | — | — | Rc | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.5.2 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.5.3 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | Rb | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.5.5 | — | — | — | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R |
| 1103.6.1 | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R |
| 1103.6.2 | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | — | — | R |
| 1103.7.1 | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.7.2 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.7.3 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.7.4 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.7.5 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — |
| 1103.7.6 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — |
| 1103.8 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | R | R | R | — |
| 1103.9 | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | R | — | R | R | R | R | — |
| 1103.10 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1104 | R | R | R | — | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R | R |
| 1105 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| 1106 | — | — | — | R | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
R = The building is required to comply. a. Existing buildings shall comply with the sections identified as “Required” (R) based on occupancy classification or use, or both, whichever is applicable. b. Only applies to Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancies as established by the adopting ordinance or legislation of the jurisdiction. c. Only applies to Group A-2 occupancies where alcoholic beverages are consumed.
and intended to serve the needs of emergency personnel for fire-fighting or rescue purposes shall be provided with emergency operation in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.
Exceptions:
- Buildings without occupied floors located more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above or 25 feet (7620 mm) below the lowest level of fire department vehicle access where protected at the elevator
shaft openings with additional fire doors in accordance with Section 716 of the California Build- ing Code and where all of the following conditions are met:
1.1. The doors shall be provided with vision panels of approved fire-protection-rated glazing so located as to furnish clear vision of the approach to the elevator. Such glazing shall not exceed 100 square inches (0.065 m 2 ) in area.
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1.2. The doors shall be held open but be automatic-closing by activation of a fire alarm initiating device installed in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72 as for Phase I Emergency Recall Operation, and shall be located at each floor served by the elevator; in the associated elevator machine room, control space, or control room; and in the elevator hoistway, where sprinklers are located in those hoistways.
1.3. The doors, when closed, shall have signs visible from the approach area stating: “WHEN THESE DOORS ARE CLOSED OR IN FIRE EMERGENCY, DO NOT USE ELEVATOR. USE EXIT STAIRWAYS.” 2. Buildings without occupied floors located more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above or 25 feet (7620 mm) below the lowest level of fire department vehicle access where provided with automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 3. Freight elevators in buildings provided with both automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and not less than one ASME 17.3-compliant elevator serving the same floors. Elimination of previously installed Phase I emergency recall or Phase II emergency in-car systems shall not be permitted. 1103.3.3 Medical emergency elevator. For existing hoist- ways with elevator alterations, or replacements, where the elevator car dimensions do not comply with Section 3002.4.1a of the California Building Code. The elevator car dimensions and/or the clear entrance opening dimen- sions may be altered where it can be demonstrated to the local jurisdictional authority’s satisfaction that the pro- posed configuration will accommodate the designated gurney or stretcher with equivalent ease to the existing car and/or clear entrance conditions. Written documentation from the local authority shall be provided to the Califor- nia Occupational Safety and Health Elevator Unit.
1103.4 Vertical openings.¶
Interior vertical openings, including but not limited to stairways, elevator hoistways, service and utility shafts, that connect two or more stories of a building shall be enclosed or protected as specified in Sections 1103.4.1 through 1103.4.10.
1103.4.1 Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies. In Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, interior vertical openings connecting two or more stories shall be protected with 1-hour fireresistance-rated construction.
Exceptions:
- In Group I-2, unenclosed vertical openings not exceeding two connected stories and not concealed within the building construction shall be permitted as follows:
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1.1. The unenclosed vertical openings shall be separated from other unenclosed vertical openings serving other floors by a smoke barrier. 1.2. The unenclosed vertical openings shall be separated from corridors by smoke partitions. 1.3. The unenclosed vertical openings shall be separated from other fire or smoke compartments on the same floors by a smoke barrier. 1.4. On other than the lowest level, the unenclosed vertical openings shall not serve as a required means of egress. 2. In Group I-2, atriums connecting three or more stories shall not require 1-hour fire-resistancerated construction where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3, and all of the following conditions are met:
2.1. For other than existing approved atriums with a smoke control system, where the atrium was constructed and is maintained in accordance with the code in effect at the time the atrium was created, the atrium shall have a smoke control system that is in compliance with Section 909. 2.2. Glass walls forming a smoke partition or a glass-block wall assembly shall be permitted where in compliance with Condition 2.2.1 or 2.2.2.
2.2.1. Glass walls forming a smoke partition shall be permitted where all of the following conditions are met:
2.2.1.1. Automatic sprinklers are provided along both sides of the separation wall and doors, or on the room side only if there is not a walkway or occupied space on the atrium side. 2.2.1.2. The sprinklers shall be not more than 12 inches (305 mm) away from the face of the glass and at intervals along the glass of not greater than 72 inches (1829 mm). 2.2.1.3. Windows in the glass wall shall be nonoperating type.
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
2.2.1.4. The glass wall and windows shall be installed in a gasketed frame in a manner that the framing system deflects without breaking (loading) the glass before the sprinkler system operates. 2.2.1.5. The sprinkler system shall be designed so that the entire surface of the glass is wet upon activation of the sprinkler system without obstruction. 2.2.2. A fire barrier is not required where a glass-block wall assembly complying with Section 2110 of the California Building Code and having a 3 /4-hour fire protection rating is provided.
2.3. Where doors are provided in the glass wall, they shall be either self-closing or automatic-closing and shall be constructed to resist the passage of smoke. 3. In Group I-3 occupancies, exit stairways or ramps and exit access stairways or ramps constructed in accordance with Section 408 of the California Building Code .
1103.4.2 Three to five stories. In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, interior vertical openings connecting three to five stories shall be protected by either 1-hour fireresistance-rated construction or an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exceptions:
- Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies.
- Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages.
- Vertical opening protection for escalators shall be in accordance with Section 1103.4.5, 1103.4.6 or 1103.4.7.
- Exit access stairways and ramps shall be in accordance with Section 1103.4.8.
1103.4.3 More than five stories. In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, interior vertical openings connecting more than five stories shall be protected by 1-hour fireresistance-rated construction.
Exceptions:
Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies.
Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages.
Vertical opening protection for escalators shall be in accordance with Section 1103.4.5, 1103.4.6 or 1103.4.7.
Exit access stairways and ramps shall be in accordance with Section 1103.4.8.
1103.4.4 Atriums and covered malls. In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, interior vertical openings in a covered mall building or a building with an atrium shall be protected by either 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction or an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
Exceptions:
- Vertical opening protection is not required for Group R-3 occupancies.
- Vertical opening protection is not required for open parking garages.
- Exit access stairways and ramps shall be in accordance with Section 1103.4.8.
1103.4.5 Escalators in Group B and M occupancies. In Group B and M occupancies, escalators creating vertical openings connecting any number of stories shall be protected by either 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction or an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 installed throughout the building, with a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers around the escalator opening.
1103.4.6 Escalators connecting four or fewer stories. In other than Group B and M occupancies, escalators creating vertical openings connecting four or fewer stories shall be protected by either 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction or an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 shall be installed throughout the building, and a draft curtain with closely spaced sprinklers shall be installed around the escalator opening.
1103.4.7 Escalators connecting more than four stories. In other than Group B and M occupancies, escalators creating vertical openings connecting five or more stories shall be protected by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
1103.4.8 Occupancies other than Groups I-2 and I-3. In other than Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies, floor openings containing exit access stairways or ramps that do not comply with one of the conditions listed in this section shall be protected by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
- Exit access stairways and ramps that serve, or atmospherically communicate between, only two stories. Such interconnected stories shall not be open to other stories.
- In Group R-1, R-2 or R-3 occupancies, exit access stairways and ramps connecting four stories or less serving and contained within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit or live/work unit.
- Exit access stairways and ramps in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, where the area of the vertical opening between stories does not exceed twice the horizontal projected
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area of the stairway or ramp, and the opening is protected by a draft curtain and closely spaced sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13. In other than Group B and M occupancies, this provision is limited to openings that do not connect more than four stories. 4. Exit access stairways and ramps within an atrium complying with the provisions of Section 404 of the California Building Code. 5. Exit access stairways and ramps in open parking garages that serve only the parking garage. 6. Exit access stairways and ramps serving open-air seating complying with the exit access travel distance requirements of Section 1030.7 of the Califor- nia Building Code. 7. Exit access stairways and ramps serving the balcony, gallery or press box and the main assembly floor in occupancies such as theaters, places of religious worship, auditoriums and sports facilities.
1103.4.9 Waste and linen chutes. In Group I-2 occupancies, existing waste and linen chutes shall comply with Sections 1103.4.9.1 through 1103.4.9.5.
1103.4.9.1 Enclosure. Chutes shall be enclosed with 1hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Opening protectives shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than1 hour.
1103.4.9.2 Chute intakes. Chute intakes shall comply with Section 1103.4.9.2.1 or 1103.4.9.2.2.
1103.4.9.2.1 Chute intake direct from corridor. Where intake to chutes is direct from a corridor, the intake opening shall be equipped with a chute-intake door in accordance with Section 716 of the Califor- nia Building Code and having a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
1103.4.9.2.2 Chute intake via a chute-intake room. Where the intake to chutes is accessed through a chute-intake room, the room shall be enclosed with 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Opening protectives for the intake room shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 3 /4 hour. Opening protectives for the chute enclosure shall be in accordance with Section 1103.4.9.1.
1103.4.9.3 Automatic sprinkler system. Chutes shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.11.2.
1103.4.9.4 Chute discharge rooms. Chutes shall terminate in a dedicated chute discharge room. Such rooms shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Opening protectives shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
1103.4.9.5 Chute discharge protection. Chute discharges shall be equipped with a self-closing or automatic-closing opening protective in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and having a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
1103.4.10 Flue-fed incinerators. Existing flue-fed incinerator rooms and associated flue shafts shall be protected with 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction and shall not have other vertical openings connected with the space other than the associated flue. Opening protectives shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
1103.5 Sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system¶
shall be provided in existing buildings in accordance with Sections 1103.5.1 through 1103.5.5.
1103.5.1 Group A-2. Where alcoholic beverages are consumed in a Group A-2 occupancy having an occupant load of 300 or more, the fire area containing the Group A2 occupancy shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
1103.5.2 Group I-2. In Group I-2, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with Section 1105.9.
1103.5.3 Group I-2, Condition 2. In addition to the requirements of Section 1103.5.2, existing buildings of Group I-2, Condition 2 occupancy shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. The automatic sprinkler system shall be installed as established by the adopting ordinance. [DATE BY WHICH SPRINKLER SYSTEM MUST BE INSTALLED].
1103.5.4 High-rise buildings. Where Appendix M has not been adopted, existing high-rise buildings that do not have a previously approved fire sprinkler system shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 where any of the following conditions apply:
- The high-rise building has an occupied floor located more than 120 feet (36 576 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
- The high-rise building has occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) and not more than 120 feet (36 576 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, and the building does not have at least two interior exit stairways complying with Section 1104.10 that are separated from the building interior by fire assemblies having a fireresistance rating of not less than 2 hours with opening protection in accordance with Table 716.1(2) of the California Building Code.
- The high-rise building has occupied floors located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) and not more than 120 feet (36 576 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, and the building does not have a fire alarm system that includes smoke detection in mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment and similar rooms; corridors; elevator lobbies; and at doors penetrating interior exit stairway enclosures.
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
Building owners shall file a compliance schedule with the fire code official not later than 365 days after receipt of a written notice. The compliance schedule shall not exceed 12 years for completion of the automatic sprinkler system retrofit.
1103.5.5 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout existing buildings where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg). Vaults located within buildings for the storage of raw pyroxylin shall be protected with an approved automatic sprinkler system capable of discharging 1.66 gallons per minute per square foot (68 L/min/m 2 ) over the area of the vault.
1103.6 Standpipes. Existing structures shall be equipped with¶
standpipes installed in accordance with Section 905 where required in Sections 1103.6.1 and 1103.6.2. 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.
1103.6.1 Existing multiple-story buildings. Existing buildings with occupied floors located more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) above the lowest level of fire department access or more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) below the highest level of fire department access shall be equipped with standpipes.
1103.6.2 Existing helistops and heliports. Existing buildings with a rooftop helistop or heliport located more than 30 feet (9144 mm) above the lowest level of fire department access to the roof level on which the helistop or heliport is located shall be equipped with standpipes in accordance with Section 2007.5.
1103.7 Fire alarm systems. An approved fire alarm system¶
shall be installed in existing buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 1103.7.1 through 1103.7.6 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5 unless other requirements are provided by other sections of this code. Existing high-rise buildings shall comply with Section 1103.7.9.
Exception: Occupancies with an existing, previously approved fire alarm system.
1103.7.1 Group E. A fire alarm system shall be installed in existing Group E occupancies in accordance with Section 907.2.3.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in a building with a maximum area of 1,000 square feet (93 m 2 ) that contains a single classroom and is located not closer than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from another building.
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in Group E occupancies with an occupant load less than 50.
1103.7.2 Reserved .
1103.7.3 Group I-2 and Group I-2.1 . In Group I-2 and Group I-2.1, an automatic fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in accordance with Section 1105.10.
1103.7.3.1 Additional provisions for existing Group I occupancies. In projects requiring the Office of State- wide Health Planning and Development approval in existing Group I-2 and I-2.1 occupancies located in buildings defined as hospitals in Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code, facilities not equipped with an automatic sprinkler system throughout shall be equipped with an automatic fire alarm system which responds to the products of combustion other than heat.
Exception: Heat detectors may be used in closets, unusable spaces under floor areas, storage rooms, bathrooms and rooms of similar use.
1103.7.4 Group I-3. An automatic and manual fire alarm system shall be installed in existing Group I-3 occupancies in accordance with Section 907.2.6.3.
1103.7.5 Group R-1. A fire alarm system and smoke alarms shall be installed in existing Group R-1 occupancies in accordance with Sections 1103.7.5.1 through 1103.7.5.2.1.
1103.7.5.1 Group R-1 hotel and motel manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in existing Group R-1 hotels and motels more than one story in height or with more than 20 sleeping units.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings less than two stories in height where all sleeping units, attics and crawl spaces are separated by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction and each sleeping unit has direct access to a public way, egress court or yard.
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than three stories in height with not more than 20 sleeping units and equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where the following conditions are met:
3.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 3.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. 3.3. Not less than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
1103.7.5.1.1 Group R-1 hotel and motel automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notifica
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tion system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in existing Group R-1 hotels and motels throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping rooms not equipped with an approved, supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
1103.7.5.2 Group R-1 boarding and rooming houses manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in existing Group R-1 boarding and rooming houses.
Exception: Buildings less than two stories in height where all sleeping units, attics and crawl spaces are separated by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction and each sleeping unit has direct access to a public way, egress court or yard.
1103.7.5.2.1 Group R-1 boarding and rooming houses automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in existing Group R1 boarding and rooming houses throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units not equipped with an approved, supervised sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.
Exception: Buildings equipped with single-station smoke alarms meeting or exceeding the requirements of Section 907.2.11.1 and where the fire alarm system includes not less than one manual fire alarm box per floor arranged to initiate the alarm.
1103.7.6 Group R-2. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in existing Group R-2 occupancies more than three stories in height or with more than 16 dwelling or sleeping units.
Exceptions:
Where each living unit is separated from other contiguous living units by fire barriers having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 3 /4 hour, and where each living unit has either its own independent exit or its own independent stairway or ramp discharging at grade.
A separate fire alarm system is not required in buildings that are equipped throughout with an approved supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and having a local alarm to notify all occupants.
A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved auto matic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by openended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1027.6, Exception 3.
A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units, do not exceed three stories in height and comply with both of the following:
4.1. Each dwelling unit is separated from other contiguous dwelling units by fire barriers having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 3 /4 hour.
4.2. Each dwelling unit is provided with smoke alarms complying with the requirements of Section 907.2.11.
1103.7.8 Existing Group R-1 and Group R-2 High-rise buildings. See Section 1113.3.
1103.7.8.1 General. Every apartment house and every hotel shall have installed therein an automatic or man- ually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm sys- tems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously.
1103.7.8.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with this code.
1103.7.9 Existing High-rise Buildings.
1103.7.9.1 Fire alarm system. Every existing high-rise building shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system. In department stores, retail sales stores and similar occupancies where the general public is admit- ted, such systems shall be of a type capable of alerting staff and employees. In office buildings and all other high-rise buildings, such systems shall be of a type capable of alerting all occupants simultaneously.
Exceptions:
1. In areas of public assemblage, the type and location of audible appliances shall be as determined by the enforcing agency.
2. When acceptable to the enforcing agency, the occupant voice notification system required by Section 1114.20 and California Existing Building Code may be used in lieu of the fire alarm system.
1103.7.9.2 Existing systems. Existing fire alarm sys- tems, when acceptable to the enforcing agency, shall be deemed as conforming to the provisions of these regu- lations. 1103.7.9.3 Annunciation. When a new fire alarm system is installed, it shall be connected to an annunciator panel installed in a location approved by the enforcing agency.
For purposes of annunciation, zoning shall be in accordance with Section 907.6.4.4.
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1103.7.9.4 Monitoring. Monitoring shall be in accor- dance with Section 907.6.6.
1103.7.9.5 Systems interconnection. When an auto- matic fire detection system or automatic extinguishing system is installed, activation of such system shall cause the sounding of the fire alarm notification appli- ances at locations designated by the enforcing agency.
1103.7.9.6 Manual fire alarm boxes. A manual fire alarm box shall be provided in the locations designated by the enforcing agency. Such locations shall be where boxes are readily accessible and visible and in normal paths of daily travel by occupants of the building.
1103.7.9.7 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. Such system shall provide communication from a location available to and designated by the enforcing agency to not less than all public areas.
The emergency voice/alarm communication system may be combined with a fire alarm system provide the combined system has been approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal. The sounding of a fire alarm signal in any given area or floor shall not prohibit voice com- munication to other areas of floors. Combination sys- tems shall be designed to permit voice transmission to override the fire alarm signal, but the fire alarm signal shall not terminate in less than three minutes.
1103.7.9.8 Fire department system. When it is deter- mined by test that portable fire department communica- tion equipment is ineffective, a communication system acceptable to the enforcing agency shall be installed within the building to permit emergency communica- tion between fire-suppression personnel.
1103.7.9.9 Smoke control systems. Existing air-circula- tion systems shall be provided with an override switch in a location approved by the enforcing agency which will allow for the manual control of shutdown of the systems.
Exception: Systems which serve only a single floor, or portion thereof, without any penetration by ducts or other means into adjacent floors.
1103.7.9.10 Elevator recall smoke detection. Smoke detection for emergency operation of elevators shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.3.3.
1103.8 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms.¶
Singleand multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in existing Group R occupancies in accordance with Sections 1103.8.1 through 1103.8.3.
1103.8.1 Where required. Existing Group R occupancies shall be provided with single-station smoke alarms in accordance with Section 907.2.11. Interconnection and power sources shall be in accordance with Sections 1103.8.2 and 1103.8.3, respectively.
Exceptions:
Where the code that was in effect at the time of construction required smoke alarms and smoke alarms complying with those requirements are already provided.
Where smoke alarms have been installed in occupancies and dwellings that were not required to have them at the time of construction, additional smoke alarms shall not be required provided that the existing smoke alarms comply with requirements that were in effect at the time of installation.
Where smoke detectors connected to a fire alarm system have been installed as a substitute for smoke alarms. 1103.8.2 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling or sleeping unit, 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 of one alarm. The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms over background noise levels with all intervening doors closed.
Exceptions:
- Interconnection is not required in buildings that are not undergoing alterations, repairs or construction of any kind.
- 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 that could provide access for interconnection without the removal of interior finishes. 3. Smoke alarms are not required to be intercon- nected where repairs or alterations are limited to the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding, or the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addi- tion of a porch or deck. 4. Smoke alarms are not required to be interconnected when work is limited to the installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing or mechanical systems or the installation, alteration or repair of electrical sys- tems which do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure. 1103.8.3 Power source. Single-station smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring provided that such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms with integral strobes that are not equipped with battery backup shall be connected to an emergency electrical system. 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.
Exceptions:
- Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in existing buildings where construction is not taking place.
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- Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in buildings that are not served from a commercial power source.
- Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in existing areas of buildings undergoing alterations or repairs that do not result in the removal of interior walls or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space or basement available that could provide access for building wiring without the removal of interior finishes.
4. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated where repairs or alterations are limited to the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding, or the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addi- tion of a porch or deck. 5. Smoke alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated when work is limited to the installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing or mechanical systems or the installation, alteration or repair of electrical systems which do not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes expos- ing the structure. 1103.8.4 Group R-3.1. In all facilities housing a bedrid- den client, smoke alarms shall receive their primary power from the building wiring when such wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke alarms shall be electrically interconnected so as to cause all smoke alarms to sound a distinctive alarm signal upon actuation of any single smoke alarm. Such alarm signal shall be audible throughout the facility at a minimal level of 15 db above ambient noise level. These devices need not be intercon- nected to any other fire alarm device, have a control panel, or be electrically supervised or provided with emergency power.
1103.8.5 Additional provisions for existing Group R occupancies.
1103.8.5.1 Existing Buildings housing Group R occu- pancies established prior to the effective date of these regulations may have their use continued if they con- form or are made to conform to provisions of these reg- ulations to the extent that reasonable and adequate life safety against the hazards of fire, panic and explosion is substantially provided. Additional means of egress, the installation of automatic sprinkler systems, auto- matic fire alarm system or other life safety measures, may be required to provide reasonable and adequate safety.
Note: It is the intent of this section that every exist- ing occupancy need not mandatorily conform with the requirements for new construction. Reasonable judgment in the application of requirements must be exercised by the enforcing agency. 1103.8.5.2 For purposes of clarification, Health and Safety Code, Section 13113.7 is repeated.
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, smoke alarms, approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 13114 at the time of installation, shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions in each dwelling intended for human occupancy:
(1) For all dwelling units intended for human occupancy, upon the owner’s application on or after January 1, 1985, for a permit for alter- ations, repairs or additions, exceeding one thou- sand dollars ($1,000).
(2) For all other dwelling units intended for human occupancy for which a building permit is issued on or after January 1, 2014, for alter- ations, repairs or additions exceeding one thou- sand dollars ($1,000), the permit issuer shall not sign off on the completion of work until the per- mittee demonstrates that all smoke alarms required for the dwelling unit are devices approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 13114.
(3) However, if any local rule, regulation or ordi- nance, adopted prior to January 1, 1987, requires installation in a dwelling unit intended for human occupancy of smoke alarms which receive their power from the electrical system of the building and requires compliance with the local rule, regulation or ordinance at a date sub- sequent to the dates specified in this section, the compliance date specified in the rule, regulation or ordinance shall, but only with respect to the dwelling units specified in this section, take pre- cedence over the date specified in this section.
(4) Unless prohibited by local rules, regulations or ordinances, a battery-operated smoke alarm, which otherwise met the standards adopted pur- suant to Section 13114 for smoke alarms at the time of installation, satisfies the requirements of this section.
(5) A fire alarm system with smoke detectors installed in accordance with the State Fire Mar- shal’s regulations may be installed in lieu of smoke alarms required pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of this subdivision, or paragraph (3) of subdivision (d).
(b) “Dwelling units intended for human occu- pancy,” as used in this section, includes a duplex, lodging house, apartment complex, hotel, motel, condominium, stock cooperative, time-share project or dwelling unit of a multiple-unit dwelling complex. For the purpose of this part, “dwelling units intended for human occupancy” does not include manufactured homes as defined in Section 18007, mobilehomes as defined in Section 18008, and com- mercial coaches as defined in Section 18001.8.
(c) A high-rise structure, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 13210 and regulated by Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 13210), and which is
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
used for purposes other than as dwelling units intended for human occupancy, is exempt from the requirements of this section.
(d) (1) The owner shall be responsible for testing and maintaining alarms in hotels, motels, lodging houses, apartment complexes and other multiple- dwelling complexes in which units are neither rented nor leased.
(2) The owner of a hotel, motel, lodging house, apartment complex or other multiple-dwelling com- plex in which units are rented or leased, and com- mencing January 1, 2014, the owner of a single- family dwelling that is rented or leased, shall be responsible for testing and maintaining alarms required by this section as follows:
(A) An owner or the owner’s agent may enter any dwelling unit, efficiency dwelling unit, guest room and suite owned by the owner for the pur- pose of installing, repairing, testing and main- taining single station smoke alarms required by this section. Except in cases of emergency, the owner or owner’s agent shall give the tenants of each such unit, room or suite reasonable notice in writing of the intention to enter and shall enter only during normal business hours. Twenty-four hours shall be presumed to be reasonable notice in absence of evidence to the contrary.
(B) At the time that a new tenancy is created, the owner shall ensure that smoke alarms are opera- ble. The tenant shall be responsible for notifying the manager or owner if the tenant becomes aware of an inoperable smoke alarm within his or her unit. The owner or authorized agent shall correct any reported deficiencies in the smoke alarm and shall not be in violation of this section for a deficient smoke alarm when he or she has not received notice of the deficiency.
(3) On or before January 1, 2016, the owner of a dwelling unit intended for human occupancy in which one or more units is rented or leased shall install additional smoke alarms, as needed, to ensure that smoke alarms are located in compliance with current building standards. Existing alarms need not be replaced unless the alarm is inoperable. New smoke alarms installed in compliance with cur- rent building standards may be battery operated provided the alarms have been approved by the State Fire Marshal for sale in the state. This para- graph shall not apply to fire alarm systems with smoke detectors, fire alarm devices that connect to a panel, or other devices that use a low-power radio frequency wireless communication signal.
(e) A violation of this section is an infraction punish- able by a maximum fine of two hundred dollars ($200) for each offense.
(f) This section shall not affect any rights which the parties may have under any other provision of law
because of the presence or absence of a smoke alarm.
(Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 420, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2013.)
1103.8.5.3 For purposes of clarification, Health and Safety Code Section 13113.8 is repeated.
(a) On and after January 1, 1986, every single-family dwelling and factory-built housing, as defined in Sec- tion 19971, which is sold shall have an operable smoke detector. The detector shall be approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal and installed in accordance with the State Fire Marshal's regulations. Unless prohibited by local rules, regulations or ordi- nances, a battery-operated smoke detector shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements of this section.
(b) On and after January 1, 1986, the transferor of any real property containing a single-family dwell- ing, as described in subdivision (a), whether the transfer is made by sale, exchange or real property sales contract, as defined in Section 2985 of the Civil Code, shall deliver to the transferee a written statement indicating that the transferor is in compli- ance with this section. The disclosure statement shall be either included in the receipt for deposit in a real estate transaction, an addendum attached thereto, or a separate document.
(c) The transferor shall deliver the statement referred to in subdivision (b) as soon as practica- ble before the transfer of title in the case of a sale or exchange, or prior to execution of the contract where the transfer is by a real property sales con- tract, as defined in Section 2985. or purposes of this subdivision, “delivery” means delivery in per- son or by mail to the transferee or transferor, or to any person authorized to act for him or her in the transaction, or to additional transferees who have requested delivery from the transferor in writing. Delivery to the spouse of a transferee or transferor shall be deemed delivery to a transferee or trans- feror, unless the contract states otherwise.
(d) This section does not apply to any of the following:
(1) Transfers which are required to be preceded by the furnishing to a prospective transferee of a copy of a public report pursuant to Section 11018.1 of the Business and Professions Code.
(2) Transfers pursuant to court order, including, but not limited to, transfers ordered by a probate court in the administration of an estate, transfers pursuant to a writ of execution, transfers by a trustee in bankruptcy, transfers by eminent domain or transfers resulting from a decree for specific performance.
(3) Transfers to a mortgagee by a mortgagor in default, transfers to a beneficiary of a deed of trust by a trustor in default, transfers by any fore- closure sale after default, transfers by any fore- closure sale after default in an obligation secured
11-12 2022 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
Copyright © 2022 by, or licensed to, International Code Council, Inc. (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED); licensed to California Building Standards Commission pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions is authorized. Any unauthorized reproduction or distribution is a violation of the federal copyright act and the license agreement, and subject to civil and criminal penalties thereunder.
by a mortgage, or transfers by a sale under a power of sale after a default in an obligation secured by a deed of trust or secured by any other instrument containing a power of sale.
(4) Transfers by a fiduciary in the course of the administration of a decedent’s estate, guardian- ship, conservatorship or trust.
(5) Transfers from one co-owner to one or more co-owners.
(6) Transfers made to a spouse, or to a person or persons in the lineal line of consanguinity of one or more of the transferors.
(7) Transfers between spouses resulting from a decree of dissolution of a marriage, from a decree of legal separation, or from a property settlement agreement incidental to either of those decrees.
(8) Transfers by the Controller in the course of administering the Unclaimed Property Law pro- vided for in Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 1500) of Title 10 of Part 3 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
(9) Transfers under the provisions of Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 3691) or Chapter 8 (commencing with Section 3771) of Part 6 of Division 1 of the Revenue and Taxation Code.
(e) No liability shall arise, nor any action be brought or maintained against any agent of any party to a transfer of title, including any person or entity acting in the capacity of an escrow, for any error, inaccuracy or omission relating to the disclo- sure required to be made by a transferor pursuant to this section.
However, this subdivision does not apply to a licensee, as defined in Section 10011 of the Business and Professions Code, where the licensee partici- pates in the making of the disclosure required to be made pursuant to this section with actual knowledge of the falsity of the disclosure.
(f) Except as otherwise provided in this section, this section shall not be deemed to create or imply a duty upon a licensee, as defined in Section 10011 of the Business and Professions Code, or upon any agent of any party to a transfer of title, including any per- son or entity acting in the capacity of an escrow, to monitor or ensure compliance with this section.
(g) No transfer of title shall be invalidated on the basis of a failure to comply with this section, and the exclusive remedy for the failure to comply with this section is an award of actual damages not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100), exclusive of any court costs and attorney’s fees.
(h) Local ordinances requiring smoke detectors in single-family dwellings may be enacted or amended. However, the ordinances shall satisfy the minimum requirements of this section.
CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
(i) For the purposes of this section, “single-family dwelling” does not include a manufactured home as defined in Section 18007, a mobilehome as defined in Section 18008, or a commercial coach as defined in Section 18001.8.
(j) This section shall not apply to the installation of smoke detectors in dwellings intended for human occupancy, as defined in and regulated by Section 13113.7 of the Health and Safety Code, as added by Senate Bill No. 1448 in the 1983-84 Regular Session.
1103.9 Carbon monoxide detection. Carbon monoxide¶
detection shall be installed in existing Group I-1, I-2, I-4 and R occupancies and in classrooms in Group E occupancies where those units include any of the conditions identified in Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6. The carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in the locations specified in Section 915.2 and the installation shall be in accordance with Section 915.4.
Exceptions:
- Carbon monoxide alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated where the code that was in effect at the time of construction did not require carbon monoxide detectors to be provided.
- Carbon monoxide alarms are permitted to be solely battery operated in dwelling units that are not served from a commercial power source.
- A carbon monoxide detection system in accordance with Section 915.5 shall be an acceptable alternative to carbon monoxide alarms.
1103.9.1 Carbon monoxide detection in existing Group E buildings. For the purposes of carbon monoxide detection, an existing Group E is a building constructed before Janu- ary 1, 2017. When an existing Group E occupancy has a fossil-fuel-burning furnace located inside the building, the school is encouraged to install carbon monoxide detection in accordance with the California Existing Building Code.
No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale or sell any carbon monoxide device in the state of Califor- nia unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
1103.10 Medical gases. Medical gases stored and transferred¶
in health-care-related facilities shall be in accordance with Chapter 53.
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