CBC · California Building Code

How must wiring/cables and standby power be protected for fire service elevators?

For a homeowner: the CBC requires that any electrical cables or wiring outside an elevator shaft that power or control a firefighter‑use elevator must be protected so they will survive a fire — by using specially listed 2‑hour survivable cable, a listed 2‑hour circuit protection system, or placing the wiring inside 2‑hour rated construction. The lobby that serves the fire‑service elevator must have a nearby interior stair with a Class I standpipe that can be reached without walking through the elevator lobby.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Wires and cables located outside the elevator hoistway and machine room that supply normal or standby power, controls, communications, lighting, HVAC, ventilation and fire-detection to a fire service access elevator must be protected by one of three 2‑hour fire-protection methods (listed survivable cable, an electrical circuit protective system, or 2‑hour construction) per § 3007.8.1. A Class I standpipe hose connection must be provided in the interior exit stairway or ramp having direct access from the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby, and the exit enclosure with the standpipe must be accessible without passing through that lobby per § 3007.9 and § 3007.9.1.

Requirements in detail

Scope — which wiring is covered

  • Applies only to wires or cables located outside the elevator hoistway and machine room. The protection requirement specifically covers those conductors that provide normal or standby power and the listed functions (control signals, communications with the car, lighting, heating/air conditioning, ventilation and fire‑detecting systems) for fire service access elevators. See § 3007.8.1.

Acceptable protection methods (choose one)

Per § 3007.8.1, protection may be provided by one of the following:

  1. Cables listed to UL 2196 with a fire‑resistance rating of not less than 2 hours (survivable cables).
  2. An electrical circuit protective system having a fire‑resistance rating of not less than 2 hours; installed per its listing.
  3. Construction (assembly) that has a fire‑resistance rating of not less than 2 hours (i.e., locating the conductors within a 2‑hour rated construction).

Covered circuits / functions

  • Normal and standby power to elevator equipment and selected supporting systems listed in § 3007.8 (e.g., elevator equipment, hoistway lighting, ventilation/cooling for machine/control rooms, car lighting) are within scope; the protection requirement in § 3007.8.1 covers these and the other listed functions.

Important exception

  • Wiring and cables that only carry control signals are not required to be protected provided those wires do not serve Phase II emergency in‑car operations. In other words, control wiring that supports Phase II must meet the protection requirement; otherwise it may be excepted. See the Exception to § 3007.8.1.

Standpipe / hose connection requirement

  • A Class I standpipe hose connection in accordance with Section 905 is required in the interior exit stairway or ramp that has direct access from the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby (§ 3007.9). The enclosure containing the standpipe must be accessible to the floor without passing through the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby (§ 3007.9.1).

Decision table — key dimensions and values

Decision variable Required value / option Code Reference
Minimum fire‑resistance rating for protection method 2 hours § 3007.8.1
Survivable cable option Cables listed to UL 2196 § 3007.8.1 (method 1)
Electrical circuit protective system option Listed system with ≥2‑hour rating; install per listing § 3007.8.1 (method 2)
Construction option Locate wiring in construction having ≥2‑hour fire‑resistance rating § 3007.8.1 (method 3)
Location to which requirement applies Wiring/cables outside hoistway and machine room § 3007.8.1
Exception — control signal wiring Not required to be protected unless serving Phase II in‑car operation Exception to § 3007.8.1
Standpipe requirement for lobby access Class I standpipe hose connection required in interior exit stairway/ramp with direct access from enclosed fire service access elevator lobby § 3007.9 / § 3007.9.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • Control signal wiring: The explicit Exception to § 3007.8.1 allows control‑signal wiring to be unprotected if it does not serve Phase II emergency in‑car operations. If such wiring does support Phase II (in‑car) functions, it must be protected like other covered circuits.
  • The protection requirement is written for wiring outside the hoistway and machine room. Conductors located inside the hoistway or inside the machine room are not the subject of § 3007.8.1 (other provisions govern those spaces). Check the applicable machine‑room and hoistway rules when routing inside those spaces.
  • The code gives three alternative compliance methods; you may select the method that best fits the building design, but the chosen system must meet its listing/installation requirements (for listed products or protective systems).

If you need interpretation of how a listed electrical circuit protective system is accepted (for example, testing/installation details), that information will be in the product listing/installation instructions and in referenced standards — the text of § 3007.8.1 requires compliance with the listing.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any fireproofing is acceptable: the code requires either UL 2196‑listed survivable cable, a listed electrical circuit protective system with a 2‑hour rating, or 2‑hour construction — you cannot substitute an unlisted or untested wrap/patch and claim compliance. § 3007.8.1.
  • Overlooking the Phase II exception: designers sometimes omit protection for all control wiring; the Exception in § 3007.8.1 only applies when the control wiring does not serve Phase II in‑car emergency operations. If it does, protect it.
  • Placing a required standpipe so it is reached by passing through the fire service access elevator lobby (violates § 3007.9.1). The standpipe’s enclosure must be accessible without going through that lobby.

Worked example — hotel elevator feeder and control cables

Scenario: A 12‑story hotel requires a fire service access elevator per § 3007.1. A 480 V feeder and associated control/communication cables run in corridor spaces outside the hoistway and machine room to serve the elevator equipment and car lighting. Control wiring for the car also includes Phase II emergency in‑car operation.

Step 1 — Identify covered conductors: Feeder, standby power conductors, car lighting, ventilation power, fire‑detecting circuits and control wiring that supports Phase II are all covered by § 3007.8.1.

Step 2 — Apply exception: Because the control wiring serves Phase II in‑car operation, the Exception does not exempt it — it must be protected.

Step 3 — Choose a protection method (one of three):

  • Option A: Specify UL 2196‑listed survivable elevator cables for the critical circuits (these must be listed and have a 2‑hour rating). OR
  • Option B: Install an electrical circuit protective system (listed for 2‑hour fire resistance) around the feeder/control circuits — follow the system’s listing/installation instructions. OR
  • Option C: Route the elevator feeder and control conductors inside a construction assembly having a 2‑hour fire‑resistance rating (for example, a 2‑hour rated shaft or barrier), if practical.

Step 4 — Documentation & inspection: Provide the product listings (UL 2196 evidence or listing for the circuit protective system) and design drawings showing the location and fire‑rating of any rated construction to the plan reviewer; the installer must follow listing instructions and the authority having jurisdiction will inspect for compliance. § 3007.8.1 requires the rating and listing; acceptance depends on verification that the installation matches the listing or construction.

Related provisions

  • § 3007.8 — Electrical power features that must have normal and Type 60/Class 2/Level 1 standby power for fire service access elevators (context for what the protected wiring serves).
  • § 3007.7 — Elevator system monitoring at the fire command center (related operational requirements).
  • § 3007.6 — Fire service access elevator lobbies and lobby design (the standpipe requirement references lobby access).
  • § 3007.9 and § 3007.9.1 — Standpipe hose connection and access (see above).
  • § 3008.8.2 — Parallel protection requirements for occupant evacuation elevators (useful reference; similar protection language appears in occupant‑evacuation provisions).
  • High‑rise / standby power rules that interact with elevator standby requirements — see § 403.4.8 and related emergency power sections (standby classification and room separation requirements).

If you want, I can extract the exact text of the three protection options and the Exception from § 3007.8.1 and the two standpipe clauses § 3007.9/3007.9.1 for plan‑review submittal (verbatim quotations), or prepare a compliance checklist keyed to your project drawings.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CBC § 30-9 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 30-9

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    3007.8.1 Protection of wiring or cables. Wires or cables that are located outside of the elevator hoistway and machine room and that provide normal or standby power, control signals, communication with the car, lighting, heating, air conditioning, ventilation and fire-detecting systems to fire service access elevators shall be protected using one of the following methods:

    1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fireresistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
    2. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.
    3. Construction having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

    Exception: Wiring and cables to control signals are not required to be protected provided that wiring and cables do not serve Phase II emergency in-car operations.

    3007.9 Standpipe hose connection. A Class I standpipe hose connection in accordance with Section 905 shall be provided in the interior exit stairway and ramp having direct access from the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby.

    3007.9.1 Access. The exit enclosure containing the standpipe shall have access to the floor without passing through the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby.

    SECTION 3008—OCCUPANT EVACUATION ELEVATORS

    3008.1 General. Where e levators are to be used for occupant self-evacuation during fires , all passenger elevators for general public use shall comply with Sections 3008.1 through 3008.10. Where other elevators are used for occupant self-evacuation, those elevators shall comply with these sections.

    3008.1.1 Reserved .

    3008.1.2 Additional exit stairway. Where an additional means of egress is required in accordance with Section 403.5.2, an additional exit stairway shall not be required to be installed in buildings provided with occupant evacuation elevators complying with Section 3008.1.

    3008.1.3 Fire safety and evacuation plan. The building shall have an approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 404 of the California Fire Code . The fire safety and evacuation plan shall incorporate specific procedures for the occupants using evacuation elevators.

    3008.1.4 Operation. The occupant evacuation elevators shall be used for occupant self-evacuation in accordance with the occupant evacuation operation requirements in California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders, and the building’s fire safety and evacuation plan.

    3008.2 Automatic sprinkler system. The building shall be equipped throughout with an approved, electrically supervised automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, except as otherwise permitted by Section 903.3.1.1.1 and as prohibited by Section 3008.2.1.

  • CBC § 3008.7 High relevance — show source text

    3008.7 Elevator system monitoring. The occupant evacuation elevators shall be continuously monitored at the fire command center or a central control point approved by the fire department and arranged to display all of the following information:

    1. Floor location of each elevator car.

    2. Direction of travel of each elevator car.

    3. Status of each elevator car with respect to whether it is occupied.

    4. Status of normal power to the elevator equipment, elevator machinery and electrical apparatus cooling equipment where provided, elevator machine room, control room and control space ventilation and cooling equipment.

    5. Status of standby or emergency power system that provides backup power to the elevator equipment, elevator machinery and electrical cooling equipment where provided, elevator machine room, control room and control space ventilation and cooling equipment.

    6. Activation of any fire alarm initiating device in any elevator lobby, elevator machine room, machine space containing a motor controller or electric driving machine, control space, control room or elevator hoistway.

    3008.7.1 Elevator recall. The fire command center or an alternate location approved by the fire department shall be provided with the means to manually initiate a Phase I Emergency Recall of the occupant evacuation elevators in accordance with Califor- nia Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.

    3008.8 Electrical power. The following features serving each occupant evacuation elevator shall be supplied by both normal power and Type 60/Class 2/Level 1 standby power:

    1. Elevator equipment.
    2. Ventilation and cooling equipment for elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machinery spaces and control spaces.
    3. Elevator car lighting.

    3008.8.1 Determination of standby power load. Standby power loads shall be based on the determination of the number of occupant evacuation elevators in Section 3008.1.1.

    3008.8.2 Protection of wiring or cables. Wires or cables that are located outside of the elevator hoistway, machine room, control room and control space and that provide normal or standby power, control signals, communication with the car, lighting, heating, air conditioning, ventilation and fire-detecting systems to occupant evacuation elevators shall be protected using one of the following methods:

    1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fireresistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
    2. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.
    3. Construction having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

    Exception: Wiring and cables to control signals are not required to be protected provided that wiring and cables do not serve Phase II emergency in-car operation.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 30-11

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    3008.9 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The building shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be accessible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

    3008.9.1 Notification appliances. Not fewer than one audible and one visible notification appliance shall be installed within each occupant evacuation elevator lobby.

  • CBC § 6-4 High relevance — show source text

    6-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

    SECTION 604—ELEVATOR OPERATION, MAINTENANCE AND FIRE SERVICE KEYS

    604.1 General. Where elevators and conveying systems are installed, they shall comply with Chapter 30 of the California Building Code and Sections 604.2 through 604.7 of this code.

    604.2 Emergency operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more shall comply with the requirements in Chapter 11. New elevators shall be provided with Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.

    604.3 Standby power. In buildings and structures where standby power is required or furnished to operate an elevator, standby power shall be provided in accordance with Section 1203 of this code and Chapter 30 of the California Building Code . Operation of the system shall be in accordance with Sections 604.3.1 through 604.3.5.

    604.3.1 Manual transfer. Standby power shall be manually transferable to all elevators in each bank.

    604.3.2 One elevator. Where only one elevator is installed, the elevator shall automatically transfer to standby power within 60 seconds after failure of normal power.

    604.3.3 Two or more elevators. Where two or more elevators are controlled by a common operating system, all elevators shall automatically transfer to standby power within 60 seconds after failure of normal power where the standby power source is of sufficient capacity to operate all elevators at the same time. Where the standby power source is not of sufficient capacity to operate all elevators at the same time, all elevators shall transfer to standby power in sequence, return to the designated landing and disconnect from the standby power source. After all elevators have been returned to the designated level, not less than one elevator shall remain operable from the standby power source.

    604.3.4 Temperature and humidity control. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the machine room , machine space, control room and control space ventilation or air conditioning shall be connected to the standby power source.

    604.3.5 Emergency hoistway venting. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the emergency hoistway ventilation system, if required, shall be connected to the standby power source.

    [BE] 604.4 Emergency signs. An approved pictorial sign of a standardized design shall be posted adjacent to each elevator call station on all floors instructing occupants to use the exit stairways and not to use the elevators in case of fire. Where elevators are not a component of the accessible means of egress, the sign shall read: “IN CASE OF FIRE, ELEVATORS ARE OUT OF SERVICE. USE EXIT.”

    Exception: The emergency sign shall not be required for elevators that are used for occupant self-evacuation in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code .

    604.5 Maintenance of elevators. Elevator features and lobbies required by Section 3006 of the California Building Code shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Sections 604.5.1 through 604.5.4.

  • CBC § 1.1. High relevance — show source text
    1. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    Exception:

    1. Control wiring and power wiring located outside of a 2-hour fire barrier construction shall be protected using any one of the following methods: 1.1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. 1.2. Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete. 1.3. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.

    909.20.6.2 Standby power. Pressurization and stairway and ramp shaft ventilation systems and automatic fire detection systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 2702.

    909.20.6.3 Acceptance and testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the system shall be tested in the presence of the building official to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements.

    9-50 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    909.21 Elevator hoistway pressurization alternative. Where elevator hoistway pressurization is provided in lieu of required enclosed elevator lobbies, the pressurization system shall comply with Sections 909.21.1 through 909.21.11. The design shall consider the interaction effects of the operation of multiple smoke control systems for all design scenarios in accordance with Section 909.4.7. All components or systems associated with the means of mitigating adverse interaction shall comply with the applicable subsections of Section 909.

    909.21.1 Pressurization requirements. Elevator hoistways shall be pressurized to maintain a minimum positive pressure of 0.10 inch of water (25 Pa) and a maximum positive pressure of 0.25 inch of water (67 Pa) with respect to adjacent occupied space on all floors. This pressure shall be measured at the midpoint of each hoistway door, with all elevator cars at the floor of recall and all hoistway doors on the floor of recall open and all other hoistway doors closed. The pressure differentials shall be measured between the hoistway and the adjacent elevator landing. The opening and closing of hoistway doors at each level must be demonstrated during this test. The supply air intake shall be from an outside, uncontaminated source located a minimum distance of 20 feet (6096 mm) from any air exhaust system or outlet.

    Exceptions:

    1. On floors containing only Group R occupancies, the pressure differential is permitted to be measured between the hoistway and a dwelling unit or sleeping unit.
    2. Where an elevator opens into a lobby enclosed in accordance with Section 3007.6 or 3008.6, the pressure differential is permitted to be measured between the hoistway and the space immediately outside the door(s) from the floor to the enclosed lobby.
    3. The pressure differential is permitted to be measured relative to the outdoor atmosphere on floors other than the following:

    3.1. The fire floor.

  • CBC § 909.20.5.2 High relevance — show source text
    1. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.
    2. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

    Exception: Control wiring and power wiring located outside of a 2-hour fire barrier construction shall be protected using any one of the following methods:

    1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
    2. Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete.
    3. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.

    [BF] 909.20.5.2 Standby power. Mechanical vestibule and stairway and ramp shaft ventilation systems and automatic fire detection systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 1203.

    [BF] 909.20.5.3 Acceptance and testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the system shall be tested in the presence of the building official to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements.

    [BF] 909.21 Elevator hoistway pressurization alternative. Where elevator hoistway pressurization is provided in lieu of required enclosed elevator lobbies, the pressurization system shall comply with Sections 909.21.1 through 909.21.11. The design shall consider the interaction effects of the operation of multiple smoke control systems for all design scenarios in accordance with Section 909.4.7. All components or systems associated with the means of mitigating adverse interaction shall comply with the applicable subsections of Section 909.

    [BF] 909.21.1 Pressurization requirements. Elevator hoistways shall be pressurized to maintain a minimum positive pressure of 0.10 inch of water (25 Pa) and a maximum positive pressure of 0.25 inch of water (67 Pa) with respect to adjacent occupied space on all floors. This pressure shall be measured at the midpoint of each hoistway door, with all elevator cars at the floor of recall and all hoistway doors on the floor of recall open and all other hoistway doors closed. The pressure differentials shall be measured between the hoistway and the adjacent elevator landing. The opening and closing of hoistway doors at each level must be demonstrated during this test. The supply air intake shall be from an outside, uncontaminated source located a minimum distance of 20 feet (6096 mm) from any air exhaust system or outlet.

    Exceptions:

    1. On floors containing only Group R occupancies, the pressure differential is permitted to be measured between the hoistway and a dwelling unit or sleeping unit.

    9-64 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

  • CBC § 3007.6.4 High relevance — show source text

    3007.6.4 Lobby size. Regardless of the number of fire service access elevators served by the same elevator lobby, the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby shall be not less than 150 square feet (14 m [2] ) in an area with a dimension of not less than 8 feet (2440 mm).

    3007.6.5 Fire service access elevator symbol. A pictorial symbol of a standardized design designating which elevators are fire service access elevators shall be installed on each side of the hoistway door frame on the portion of the frame at right angles to the fire service access elevator lobby. The fire service access elevator symbol shall be designed as shown in Figure 3007.6.5 and shall comply with the following:

    1. The fire service access elevator symbol shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in height.
    2. The helmet shall contrast with the background, with either a light helmet on a dark background or a dark helmet on a light background.
    3. The vertical center line of the fire service access elevator symbol shall be centered on the hoistway door frame. Each symbol shall be not less than 78 inches (1981 mm), and not more than 84 inches (2134 mm) above the finished floor at the threshold.

    FIGURE 3007.6.5—FIRE SERVICE ACCESS ELEVATOR SYMBOL

    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

    3007.7 Elevator system monitoring. The fire service access elevator shall be continuously monitored at the fire command center by a standard emergency service interface system meeting the requirements of NFPA 72.

    3007.8 Electrical power. The following features serving each fire service access elevator shall be supplied by both normal power and Type 60/Class 2/Level 1 standby power:

    1. Elevator equipment.
    2. Elevator hoistway lighting.
    3. Ventilation and cooling equipment for elevator machine rooms, control rooms, machine spaces and control spaces.
    4. Elevator car lighting.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 30-9

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    3007.8.1 Protection of wiring or cables. Wires or cables that are located outside of the elevator hoistway and machine room and that provide normal or standby power, control signals, communication with the car, lighting, heating, air conditioning, ventilation and fire-detecting systems to fire service access elevators shall be protected using one of the following methods:

    1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fireresistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
    2. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.
    3. Construction having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

    Exception: Wiring and cables to control signals are not required to be protected provided that wiring and cables do not serve Phase II emergency in-car operations.

    3007.9 Standpipe hose connection. A Class I standpipe hose connection in accordance with Section 905 shall be provided in the interior exit stairway and ramp having direct access from the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby.

    3007.9.1 Access. The exit enclosure containing the standpipe shall have access to the floor without passing through the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby.

  • CBC § 3008.8.2 High relevance — show source text

    3008.8.2 Protection of wiring or cables. Wires or cables that are located outside of the elevator hoistway, machine room, control room and control space and that provide normal or standby power, control signals, communication with the car, lighting, heating, air conditioning, ventilation and fire-detecting systems to occupant evacuation elevators shall be protected using one of the following methods:

    1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fireresistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
    2. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.
    3. Construction having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

    Exception: Wiring and cables to control signals are not required to be protected provided that wiring and cables do not serve Phase II emergency in-car operation.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 30-11

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    3008.9 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. The building shall be provided with an emergency voice/alarm communication system. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be accessible to the fire department. The system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

    3008.9.1 Notification appliances. Not fewer than one audible and one visible notification appliance shall be installed within each occupant evacuation elevator lobby.

    3008.10 Hazardous material areas. Building areas shall not contain hazardous materials exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area as addressed in Section 414.2.

    SECTION 3009—PRIVATE RESIDENCE ELEVATORS

    3009.1 General. The design, construction and installation of elevators installed within a residential dwelling unit or installed to provide access to one individual residential dwelling unit shall conform to California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.

    3009.2 Hoistway enclosures. Hoistway enclosures shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders .

    3009.3 Hoistway opening protection. Hoistway landing doors for private residence elevators shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders .

    SECTION 3010—SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ELEVATORS IN HOSPITALS

    3010.1 General. [OSHPD 1] In hospital buildings, all elevators shall comply with the provisions of this section.

    3010.1.1 Seismic switch. The seismic switch, as required by ASME A17.1, shall be connected to the essential electrical system.

    3010.1.2 Annunciator. Either a visible or an audible annunciator shall be connected to the essential electrical system and be located in the elevator machine room. The annunciator will indicate if the seismic switch is inoperative due to a loss of power. If a visual annunciator is used, it shall be clearly visible in the room.

  • CBC § 3003.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 3003.1.1 Manual transfer. Standby power shall be manually transferable to all elevators in each bank.

    [F] 3003.1.2 One elevator. Where only one elevator is installed, the elevator shall automatically transfer to standby power within 60 seconds after failure of normal power.

    [F] 3003.1.3 Two or more elevators. Where two or more elevators are controlled by a common operating system, all elevators shall automatically transfer to standby power within 60 seconds after failure of normal power where the standby power source is of sufficient capacity to operate all elevators at the same time. Where the standby power source is not of sufficient capacity to operate all elevators at the same time, all elevators shall transfer to standby power in sequence, return to the designated landing and disconnect from the standby power source. After all elevators have been returned to the designated level, not less than one elevator shall remain operable from the standby power source.

    [F] 3003.1.4 Temperature and humidity control. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the machine room machine space, control room and control space ventilation or air conditioning system shall be connected to the standby power source.

    3003.1.5 Emergency hoistway venting. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the emergency hoistway ventilation system, if required, shall be connected to the standby power source.

    [F] 3003.2 Firefighters’ emergency operation. Elevators shall be provided with Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.

    3003.2.1 Floor numbers. Elevator hoistways shall have a floor number not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height, placed on the walls and/or doors of the hoistway at intervals such that a person in a stalled elevator, upon opening the car door, can determine the floor position.

    3003.2.1.1 Fire signs. All automatic elevators shall have not less than one sign at each landing printed on a contrasting back- ground in letters not less than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) high to read: IN CASE OF FIRE USE STAIRWAY FOR EXIT. DO NOT USE ELEVATOR.

    3003.2.1.2 Call and car operation buttons. Automatic passenger elevators shall have call and car operation buttons within 60 inches (1524 mm) of the floor. Emergency telephones shall also be within 60 inches (1524 mm) of the floor.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 30-5

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    [F] 3003.3 Standardized fire service elevator keys. All elevators shall be equipped to operate with a standardized fire service elevator key in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    3003.4 Emergency hoistway venting. Elevator hoistways containing the driving machine shall be provided with a means for venting smoke and hot gases to the outer air in case of fire.

  • CBC § 603.6.1 High relevance — show source text

    603.6.1 Application and use. Extension cords shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle, relocatable power tap or current tap and, except for approved multiplug extension cords, shall serve only one portable appliance.

    603.6.2 Ampacity. The ampacity of the extension cords shall be not less than the rated ampacity of the portable appliance supplied by the cord.

    603.6.3 Maintenance. Extension cords shall be maintained in good condition without splices, deterioration or damage.

    603.6.4 Grounding. Extension cords shall be grounded where serving grounded portable appliances.

    603.7 Electrical motors. Electrical motors shall be maintained free from excessive accumulations of oil, dirt, waste and debris.

    603.8 Temporary wiring. The use of temporary wiring for electrical power and lighting installations shall not exceed a period of 90 days. Temporary wiring methods shall meet the applicable provisions of the California Electrical Code .

    Exception: Temporary wiring for electrical power and lighting installations complying with the applicable provisions of the Cali- fornia Electrical Code is permitted during periods of construction, remodeling, repair or demolition of buildings, structures, equipment or similar activities.

    603.8.1 Attachment to structures. Temporary wiring attached to a structure shall be protected from physical damage and supported on insulators spaced not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) apart. 603.9 Abandoned wiring in plenums. Abandoned cables in plenums that are able to be accessed without causing damage, or requiring demolition to the building, shall be tagged for future use or shall be removed.

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    BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

    SECTION 604—ELEVATOR OPERATION, MAINTENANCE AND FIRE SERVICE KEYS

    604.1 General. Where elevators and conveying systems are installed, they shall comply with Chapter 30 of the California Building Code and Sections 604.2 through 604.7 of this code.

    604.2 Emergency operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more shall comply with the requirements in Chapter 11. New elevators shall be provided with Phase I emergency recall operation and Phase II emergency in-car operation in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.

    604.3 Standby power. In buildings and structures where standby power is required or furnished to operate an elevator, standby power shall be provided in accordance with Section 1203 of this code and Chapter 30 of the California Building Code . Operation of the system shall be in accordance with Sections 604.3.1 through 604.3.5.

    604.3.1 Manual transfer. Standby power shall be manually transferable to all elevators in each bank.

    604.3.2 One elevator. Where only one elevator is installed, the elevator shall automatically transfer to standby power within 60 seconds after failure of normal power.

  • CBC § 909.20.5.4 High relevance — show source text

    909.20.5.4 Smoke detection. The fan system shall be equipped with a smoke detector that will automatically shut down the fan system when smoke is detected within the system.

    909.20.6 Pressurization equipment. The activation of pressurization equipment required by the alternatives in Sections 909.20.4 and 909.20.5 shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an approved location at the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure and upon activation of the automatic controls required by Section 909.12.4 . When the closing device for the stairway and ramp shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power failure, the mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

    909.20.6.1 Pressurization systems. Smokeproof enclosure pressurization systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of the following:

    1. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and directly connected to the smokeproof enclosure or connected to the smokeproof enclosure by ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    2. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    3. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    Exception:

    1. Control wiring and power wiring located outside of a 2-hour fire barrier construction shall be protected using any one of the following methods: 1.1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. 1.2. Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete. 1.3. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.

    909.20.6.2 Standby power. Pressurization and stairway and ramp shaft ventilation systems and automatic fire detection systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 2702.

    909.20.6.3 Acceptance and testing. Before the mechanical equipment is approved, the system shall be tested in the presence of the building official to confirm that the system is operating in compliance with these requirements.

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    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

  • CBC § 909.20.3.3 High relevance — show source text

    [BF] 909.20.3.3 Vestibule ventilation. Each vestibule shall have a minimum net area of 16 square feet (1.5 m [2] ) of opening in a wall facing an outer court, yard or public way that is not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in width.

    [BF] 909.20.4 Stairway and ramp pressurization alternative. Where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the vestibule is not required, provided that each interiorexit stairway or ramp is pressurized to not less than 0.10 inch of water (25 Pa) and not more than 0.35 inch of water (87 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all interior exit stairway and ramp doors closed under maximum anticipated conditions of stack effect and wind effect.

    [BF] 909.20.5 Ventilating equipment. The activation of ventilating equipment required by the alternative in Section 909.20.4 shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an approved location at the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. When the closing device for the stairway and ramp shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power failure, the mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

    [BF] 909.20.5.1 Ventilation systems. Smokeproof enclosure ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems. The equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall comply with one of the following:

    1. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and directly connected to the smokeproof enclosure or connected to the smokeproof enclosure by ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.
    2. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the smokeproof enclosure with intake or exhaust directly from and to the outside or through ductwork enclosed by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.
    3. Equipment, control wiring, power wiring and ductwork shall be located within the building if separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

    Exception: Control wiring and power wiring located outside of a 2-hour fire barrier construction shall be protected using any one of the following methods:

    1. Cables used for survivability of required critical circuits shall be listed in accordance with UL 2196 and shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.
    2. Where encased with not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete.
    3. Electrical circuit protective systems shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours. Electrical circuit protective systems shall be installed in accordance with their listing requirements.

    [BF] 909.20.5.2 Standby power. Mechanical vestibule and stairway and ramp shaft ventilation systems and automatic fire detection systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 1203.

  • CBC § 604.3.4 High relevance — show source text

    604.3.4 Temperature and humidity control. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the machine room , machine space, control room and control space ventilation or air conditioning shall be connected to the standby power source.

    604.3.5 Emergency hoistway venting. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the emergency hoistway ventilation system, if required, shall be connected to the standby power source.

    [BE] 604.4 Emergency signs. An approved pictorial sign of a standardized design shall be posted adjacent to each elevator call station on all floors instructing occupants to use the exit stairways and not to use the elevators in case of fire. Where elevators are not a component of the accessible means of egress, the sign shall read: “IN CASE OF FIRE, ELEVATORS ARE OUT OF SERVICE. USE EXIT.”

    Exception: The emergency sign shall not be required for elevators that are used for occupant self-evacuation in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code .

    604.5 Maintenance of elevators. Elevator features and lobbies required by Section 3006 of the California Building Code shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Sections 604.5.1 through 604.5.4.

    604.5.1 Fire service access elevators and lobbies. Where fire service access elevators are required by Section 3007 of the Califor- nia Building Code, fire service access elevator fire protection and safety features shall be maintained and lobbies required by Section 3007 of the California Building Code shall be maintained free of storage and furniture.

    604.5.2 Occupant evacuation elevators and lobbies. Where occupant evacuation elevators are provided in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code, occupant evacuation elevator fire protection and safety features shall be maintained and lobbies required by Section 3008 of the California Building Code shall be maintained free of storage and furniture.

    604.5.3 Storage within elevator lobbies. Where hoistway opening protection is required by Section 3006.2 of the California Building Code, elevator lobbies shall be maintained free of storage.

    604.5.4 Water protection of hoistway enclosures. Methods to prevent water from infiltrating into a hoistway enclosure required by Sections 3007.3 and 3008.3 of the California Building Code shall be maintained.

    604.6 Elevator keys. All elevators shall be provided with elevator car door and firefighter service keys in accordance with Sections 604.6.1 through 604.6.2.4.

    604.6.1 Elevator key location. Keys for the elevator car doors and firefighter service keys shall be kept in an approved location for immediate use by the fire department.

    604.6.2 Standardized fire service elevator keys. Buildings with elevators equipped with Phase I emergency recall, Phase II emergency in-car operation, or a fire service access elevator shall be equipped to operate with a standardized fire service elevator key approved by the fire code official or a standardized key in accordance with ASME A17.1/CSA B44.

    Exception: The owner shall be permitted to place the building’s nonstandardized fire service elevator keys in a key box installed in accordance with Section 506.1.2.

Frequently asked questions

Do the protections in § 3007.8.1 apply to wiring inside the hoistway or inside the machine room?

No. § 3007.8.1 is directed at wiring or cables located outside the elevator hoistway and machine room; wiring inside those spaces is governed by other provisions.

Can I use ordinary fire‑rated cable with a 1‑hour rating?

No. The code requires a fire‑resistance rating of not less than 2 hours for the listed options in § 3007.8.1 (UL 2196 cables, electrical circuit protective systems, or 2‑hour construction).

If control wiring is low‑voltage and only used for car dispatch (not Phase II), do I need to protect it?

Not necessarily. The Exception to § 3007.8.1 allows control signal wiring to be unprotected provided it does not serve Phase II emergency in‑car operations. Confirm the wiring’s functions before relying on the exception.

Where does the standpipe have to be located relative to the elevator lobby?

A Class I standpipe hose connection is required in the interior exit stairway or ramp that has direct access from the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby, and the standpipe enclosure must be accessible without passing through that lobby (§ 3007.9 and § 3007.9.1).

What documentation will plan reviewers want to see?

Provide product listings (e.g., UL 2196 evidence) or the listing for an electrical circuit protective system, and show on drawings how conductors are routed and how the 2‑hour rating is achieved (listed system installation details or the 2‑hour rated construction). § 3007.8.1 requires the rating and listing compliance.

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