CBC · California Building Code

What are the elevator emergency communication system requirements?

California requires every elevator car to have a two‑way emergency communication system with both audible and visual modes so authorized personnel can verify someone is in the car, confirm entrapment, decide if help is needed, and tell occupants when help is on the way and when it has arrived (CBC § 3001.2).

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Building Code requires every elevator car to have a two‑way emergency communication system that provides both audible and visual communication and complies with the California Elevator Safety Orders; the system must let authorized personnel verify that someone is in the car and whether they are trapped and, if so, (a) determine if assistance is needed, (b) tell the occupant help is on the way, and (c) tell the occupant when help has arrived. This requirement is stated in CBC § 3001.2 and must be read together with the referenced Elevator Safety Orders and other elevator provisions in Chapter 30.

Requirements in detail

Basic duty: what must be provided

  • A two‑way emergency communication system in each elevator car. It must include both audible and visual modes (not just a push‑button alarm or one‑way speaker). See CBC § 3001.2.

Purpose / minimum functional capabilities

  • Enable authorized personnel to verify:
    • Presence of a person in the car.
    • That the person(s) is trapped.
  • After verification, enable authorized personnel to:
    1. Determine whether assistance is required.
    2. Communicate to the trapped occupant that help is on the way.
    3. Communicate to the trapped occupant when help arrives on site. These purpose elements are required by CBC § 3001.2.

Standards and referenced rules

  • The two‑way system in § 3001.2 must comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6 (Elevator Safety Orders), as explicitly referenced in CBC § 3001.2 and § 3001.3.

Interactions with other elevator and building systems

  • Occupant‑evacuation elevators and their lobbies have additional two‑way communication and monitoring requirements (e.g., lobby two‑way systems and fire‑command center monitoring) that complement the in‑car system; see CBC §§ 3008.6.6 and 3008.7.
  • Emergency voice/alarm (building‑wide public address) systems and fire alarm integration (paging zones, manual override, standby power) are governed by the Fire Code (e.g., CBC‑referenced Fire Code § 907.5.2.2/NFPA 72) and interact with elevator communications for emergency messaging.

Decision‑relevant dimensions (table)

Decision dimension Required value / behavior Code reference
Location In each elevator car (every car) § 3001.2
Communication direction Two‑way (authorized personnel ↔ occupant) § 3001.2
Modalities Both audible and visual communication modes § 3001.2
Functional outcomes Verify presence/trapped; determine need for assistance; notify when help is en route and when arrived § 3001.2
Governing standard California CCR Title 8, Elevator Safety Orders (ASME A17.1/CSA B44 where applicable) §§ 3001.2, 3001.3
Lobby two‑way (occupant evacuation elevators) Two‑way system required in each occupant‑evacuation elevator lobby to reach the fire command center or approved alternate § 3008.6.6
Monitoring & power (occupant‑evac elevators) Monitoring at fire command center and standby power provisions apply to elevator systems and car lighting §§ 3008.7, 3008.8

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CBC text in § 3001.2 delegates many technical specifics (equipment performance, connection methods, survivability) to the California Elevator Safety Orders (Title 8) and referenced standards (ASME A17.1/CSA B44). For details such as exact device listings, battery/back‑up duration, wiring survivability, and control‑room interconnections you must consult those Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders and the standards listed in CBC § 3001.3.
  • Occupant‑evacuation elevators (high‑rise egress elevators) have additional lobby two‑way, monitoring, and standby power requirements in CBC § 3008 (see §§ 3008.6.6, 3008.7, 3008.8). The in‑car communications requirement of § 3001.2 remains applicable but is supplemented by those sections for occupant‑evacuation systems.
  • Private residence elevators and limited‑use/limited‑application elevators are addressed elsewhere (for example, private residence elevator provisions and emergency signaling appear in Chapter 11B / § 11B-409.4.7 and Chapter 3009); check those sections and Title 8 orders for applicable adaptations.

If you need the specific technical performance requirements (e.g., required circuit survivability, listing to a particular UL standard, or dial‑out behavior), those are not spelled out in CBC § 3001.2 itself and must be taken from the referenced Elevator Safety Orders (Title 8) and the standards listed in CBC § 3001.3.

Common mistakes

  • Installing a one‑way speaker or only a push‑button alarm instead of a two‑way audible + visual system (violates § 3001.2).
  • Relying on building fire alarm paging alone to meet the in‑car requirement — § 3001.2 demands a two‑way system in the car itself and compliance with Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders.
  • Failing to integrate occupant‑evacuation elevator lobbies to the fire command center two‑way system or to provide required monitoring/standby power for evacuation elevators (see §§ 3008.6.6, 3008.7, 3008.8).
  • Omitting appropriate wiring or survivability protections (e.g., not following the survivability/listing requirements that are required for critical elevator circuits in other CBC provisions and referenced standards). The CBC points to Title 8 and referenced standards for these specifics; don’t assume the car‑station device alone satisfies survivability requirements.

Worked example

Scenario: A 12‑story office building with two passenger elevators (not occupant evacuation designated). A designer is selecting an emergency communications system for each car.

How CBC § 3001.2 applies (stepwise):

  1. Provide a two‑way system inside each elevator car with both audible and visual modes so an authorized operator can communicate with a trapped occupant and can see that a person is present. This satisfies the “in each elevator car” and “audible + visual” requirements of § 3001.2.
  2. Ensure the system’s functions include (a) a method to confirm someone is in the car (visual or camera feed or visual signaling), (b) the ability to let authorized personnel ask whether assistance is needed, and (c) to send messages that help is on the way and that help has arrived, per § 3001.2.
  3. Because the CBC points to the Elevator Safety Orders for details, the designer selects a Title 8–compliant in‑car telephone/communication unit that provides:
    • Two‑way voice linking to an approved supervising station or fire command center;
    • A visible indicator/camera or other visual mode that allows verification of presence;
    • Automatic dial‑out/notification behavior required by the Elevator Safety Orders. (The CBC itself does not list the exact model or dial‑out timing — those are in Title 8 and the listed standards referenced by § 3001.3.)
  4. If the building uses one of the elevators for occupant evacuation (designated occupant evacuation elevator), add the lobby two‑way device tied to the fire command center and ensure elevator monitoring and standby power per CBC §§ 3008.6.6, 3008.7 and 3008.8.

Related provisions

  • § 3001.3 — Referenced standards; directs compliance with Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders and lists applicable standards (ASME A17.1/CSA B44, etc.).
  • § 3008.6.6 — Two‑way communication required in occupant‑evacuation elevator lobbies (connect to fire command center).
  • § 3008.7 — Elevator system monitoring and required information display at the fire command center for occupant‑evacuation elevators.
  • § 3008.8 (and 3008.8.2) — Standby power and wiring/cable protection requirements for occupant‑evacuation elevator systems.
  • § 1009.8 / 1009.8.1 — Two‑way communication system criteria where required on accessible floors/landings (system design, listing, audible + visible signals).
  • Chapter 11B (e.g., § 11B‑409.4.7) — Emergency communications provisions for private residence elevators and limited‑use applications; consult when design involves private residence elevators.
  • Fire Code § 907.5.2.2 (Emergency voice/alarm communication systems) / NFPA 72 — building‑wide voice/paging systems and integration with elevator zones/paging. See CBC references to this Fire Code provision.

Code references

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

  • CBC § 3001.2 High relevance — show source text

    3001.2 Elevator emergency communication systems. An elevator emergency two-way communication system that includes both visual and audible communication modes complying with the requirements in California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chap- ter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders, shall be provided in each elevator car. The system shall provide a means to enable authorized personnel to verify:

    1. The presence of someone in the car.
    2. That the person(s) is trapped.

    Once an entrapment is verified, the system shall enable authorized personnel to:

    1. Determine if assistance is needed.

    2. Communicate when help is on the way.

    3. Communicate when help arrives on site.

    3001.3 Referenced standards. The design, construction, installation, alteration, repair and maintenance of elevators and conveying systems and their components shall conform to California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders, and the applicable standard specified in Table 3001.3 and Section 3001.6.

    TABLE 3001.3—ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS AND COMPONENTS Col2
    TYPE STANDARD
    Automotive lifts ALI ALCTV
    Belt manlifts ASME A90.1
    Conveyors and related equipment ASME B20.1
    Elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, moving walks, material lifts ASME A17.1/CSA B44, ASME A17.7/CSA B44.7
    Industrial scissor lifts ANSI MH29.1
    Platform lifts, stairway chairlifts, wheelchair lifts ASME A18.1

    [BE] 3001.4 Accessibility. Passenger elevators and platform (wheelchair) lifts required to be accessible or to serve as part of an accessible means of egress shall comply with Sections 1009 and either Chapter 11A for applications listed in Section 1.8.2.1.2 regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development or Chapter 11B for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Divi- sion of the State Architect—Access Compliance.

    3001.5 Change in use. A change in use of an elevator from freight to passenger, passenger to freight, or from one freight class to another freight class shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.

    3001.6 Structural design. All interior and exterior elevators, escalators and other conveying systems and their components shall comply with all applicable design loading criteria in Chapter 16, including wind, flood and seismic loads established in Sections 1609, 1612 and 1613.

    3001.7 Elevators utilized to transport hazardous materials. Elevators utilized to transport hazardous materials shall also comply with the California Fire Code Sections 5003.10.2.2, 5003.10.4 through 5003.10.7.

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    ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    SECTION 3002—HOISTWAY ENCLOSURES

  • CBC § 6.1 High relevance — show source text

    6.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |3008.1.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |3003.1.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |3008.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |3008.7.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |3010||||||||||X|||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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    30 ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 30 contains the provisions that regulate vertical and horizontal transportation and material-handling systems installed in buildings. This chapter also provides several elements that protect occupants and assist emergency responders during fires.

    ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [F] and [BE] will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. All other code change proposals will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.

    SECTION 3001—GENERAL

    3001.1 Scope. This chapter governs the design, construction, installation, alteration and repair of elevators and conveying systems and their components.

    3001.2 Elevator emergency communication systems. An elevator emergency two-way communication system that includes both visual and audible communication modes complying with the requirements in California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chap- ter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders, shall be provided in each elevator car. The system shall provide a means to enable authorized personnel to verify:

    1. The presence of someone in the car.
    2. That the person(s) is trapped.

    Once an entrapment is verified, the system shall enable authorized personnel to:

    1. Determine if assistance is needed.

    2. Communicate when help is on the way.

    3. Communicate when help arrives on site.

    3001.3 Referenced standards. The design, construction, installation, alteration, repair and maintenance of elevators and conveying systems and their components shall conform to California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders, and the applicable standard specified in Table 3001.3 and Section 3001.6.

    TABLE 3001.3—ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS AND COMPONENTS Col2
    TYPE STANDARD
    Automotive lifts ALI ALCTV
    Belt manlifts ASME A90.1
    Conveyors and related equipment ASME B20.1
    Elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, moving walks, material lifts ASME A17.1/CSA B44, ASME A17.7/CSA B44.7
    Industrial scissor lifts ANSI MH29.1
    Platform lifts, stairway chairlifts, wheelchair lifts ASME A18.1
  • 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.

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    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 § 409.4 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 409.4 Elevator cars. Private residence elevator cars shall comply with Section 11B- 409.4.

    11B- 409.4.1 Inside dimensions of elevator cars. Elevator cars shall provide a clear floor space of 36 inches ( 914 mm) minimum by 48 inches ( 1219 mm) minimum and shall comply with Section 11B- 305 .

    11B- 409.4.2 Floor surfaces. Floor surfaces in elevator cars shall comply with Sections 11B- 302 and 11B- 303 .

    11B- 409.4.3 Platform to hoistway clearance. The clearance between the car platform and the edge of any landing sill shall be 1 [1] / 2 inch (38 mm) maximum.

    11B- 409.4.4 Leveling. Each car shall automatically stop at a floor landing within a tolerance of [1] / 2 inch ( 12.7 mm) under rated loading to zero loading conditions.

    11B- 409.4.5 Illumination levels. Elevator car illumination shall comply with Section 11B- 407.4.5.

    11B- 409.4.6 Car controls. Elevator car control buttons shall comply with Sections 11B- 409.4.6, 11B- 309.3, 11B- 309.4 and shall be raised or flush.

    11B- 409.4.6.1 Size. Control buttons shall be [3] / 4 inch ( 19.1 mm) minimum in their smallest dimension.

    11B- 409.4.6.2 Location. Control panels shall be on a side wall, 12 inches (305 mm) minimum from any adjacent wall.

    FIGURE 11B -409.4.6.2—LOCATION OF PRIVATE RESIDENCE ELEVATOR CONTROL PANEL

    11B- 409.4.7 Emergency communications. Emergency two-way communication systems shall comply with Section 11B- 409.4.7.

    11B- 409.4.7.1 Type. A telephone and emergency signal device shall be provided in the car.

    11B- 409.4.7.2 Operable parts. The telephone and emergency signaling device shall comply with Sections 11B- 309.3 and 11B- 309.4.

    11B- 409.4.7.3 Compartment. If the telephone or device is in a closed compartment, the compartment door hardware shall comply with Section 11B- 309 .

    11B- 409.4.7.4 Cord. The telephone cord shall be 29 inches ( 737 mm) long minimum.

    SECTION 11B- 410 — PLATFORM LIFTS

    11B- 410.1 General. Platform lifts shall comply with ASME A18.1. Platform lifts shall not be attendant-operated and shall provide unassisted entry and exit from the lift.

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  • 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.

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    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 § 10-17 High relevance — show source text

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    feet (3048 mm) above the floor level of the area for assisted rescue or to the roof line, whichever is lower. Openings within such fire-resistance-rated exterior walls shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

    Exception: The fire-resistance rating and opening protectives are not required in the exterior wall where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    1009.7.3 Openness. The exterior area for assisted rescue shall be open to the outside air. The sides other than the separation walls shall be not less than 50 percent open, and the open area shall be distributed so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.

    1009.7.4 Stairways. Stairways that are part of the means of egress for the exterior area for assisted rescue shall provide a minimum clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails.

    Exception: The minimum clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails is not required at stairways serving buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    1009.8 Two-way communication. A two-way communication system complying with Sections 1009.8.1 and 1009.8.2 shall be provided at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators on each accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge.

    Exceptions:

    1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators where the two-way communication system is provided within areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.5.

    2. Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with ramps conforming to the provisions of Section 1012.

    3. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only service elevators that are not designated as part of the accessible means of egress or serve as part of the required accessible route into a facility.

    4. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only freight elevators.

    5. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving a private residence elevator.

    6. Two-way communication systems are not required in Group I-2 or I-3 facilities.

    1009.8.1 System requirements. Two-way communication systems shall provide communication between each required location and the fire command center or a central control point location approved by the fire department. Where the central control point is not a constantly attended location, the two-way communication system shall have timed, automatic telephone dial-out capability that provides two-way communication with an approved supervising station or emergency services. The two-way communication system shall include both audible and visible signals. Systems shall be listed in accordance with UL 2525 and installed in accordance with NFPA 72.

  • CBC § 1208.4 High relevance — show source text

    11 Efficiency Dwelling Unit 1208.4 Egress (see Means of Egress) Chapter 10 Egress Court (see Yards or Courts) Electric Vehicle Charging 420.14 Electric Vehicle Charging Station 406.2.7, 11B-228 Electrical 105.2, 112, Table 509.1, Chapter 27, Appendix K Elevator Chapter 30 Accessibility 1009.2.1, 1009.4, 1009.8, Chapters 11A and 11B, 3001.4 Car size 403.6.1, 3001.4, 3002.4 Construction 713.14, 1607.12.1, 1609.7 Conveying systems 3004 Emergency communication 3001.2 Emergency operations 3002.3, 3002.5, 3003, 3007.1, 3008.1.4 Fire service access 403.6.1, 3007 Glass 2409, 3002.8 High-rise 403.2.2, 403.4.8, 403.6 Hoistway door protection 3006 Hoistway enclosures 403.2.2, 713, 1023.4, 1024.3, 3002, 3007.5, 3008.5 Hoistway lighting 3007.5.2 Hoistway pressurization 909.21 Keys 3003.3 Lobby 1009.4, 1009.8, 3006, 3007.6, 3008.6

    Machine rooms Table 1607.1, 3005 Means of egress 403.6, 1003.7, 1009.2.1, 1009.4, 3008

    Number of elevator cars in hoistway 3002.2

    Occupant evacuation elevators 403.6.2, 3008 Personnel and material hoists 3004.4

    Private residence elevator 3009

    Roof access 1011.12.2

    Shaft enclosure 712, 3006 Signs 914, 1009.10, 3002.3, 3007.6.5, 3008.6.5 Stairway to elevator equipment 1011.12.1

    Standards 3001.3 Standby power 2702.2, 3007.8, 3008.8 System monitoring 3007.7, 3008.7 Underground 405.4.3 Emergency Communications Accessible means of egress 1009.8 Alarms (see Fire Alarm and Smoke Detection Systems) Elevator 3001.2 Elevators, occupant evacuation 3008.6.6

  • CBC § 907.5.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    agency.

    [F] 907.5.2.2 Emergency voice/alarm communication systems. Emergency voice/alarm communication systems required by this code shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72. The operation of any automatic fire detector, sprinkler waterflow device or manual fire alarm box shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by voice instructions giving approved information and directions for a general or staged evacuation in accordance with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plans required by Section 404 of the California Fire Code . In high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, the system shall operate on at least the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor below. Speakers shall be provided throughout the building by paging zones. At a minimum, paging zones shall be provided as follows:

    1. Elevator groups.

    2. Interior exit stairways.

    3. Each floor.

    4. Areas of refuge as defined in Chapter 2.

    Exception: In Group I-2 occupancies, where in accordance with Section 907.5.2.5, audible fire alarm notification devices are not provided, upon receipt of an alarm at a constantly attended location, a general occupant notification shall be broadcast over the public-address system.

    [F] 907.5.2.2.1 Manual override. A manual override for emergency voice communication shall be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all paging zones.

    [F] 907.5.2.2.2 Live voice messages. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall have the capability to broadcast live voice messages by paging zones on a selective and all-call basis.

    [F] 907.5.2.2.3 Alternative uses. The emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be allowed to be used for other announcements, provided that the manual fire alarm use takes precedence over any other use.

    [F] 907.5.2.2.4 Emergency voice/alarm communication captions. Where stadiums, arenas and grandstands have 15,000 fixed seats or more and provide audible public announcements, the emergency/voice alarm communication system shall provide prerecorded or real-time captions. Prerecorded or live emergency captions shall be from an approved location constantly attended by personnel trained to respond to an emergency.

    [F] 907.5.2.2.5 Standby power. Emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall be provided with standby power in accordance with Section 2702.

    [F] 907.5.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.4 .

    Exceptions:

    1. In other than Group I-2, v isible alarm notification appliances are not required in alterations, except where an existing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced, or a new fire alarm system is installed.
    2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in enclosed exit stairways, enclosed exit ramps, exterior exit stairs and exterior exit ramps.
    3. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not be required in elevator cars.
    4. Visual alarm notification appliances are not required in critical care areas of Group I-2 occupancies that are in compliance with Section 907.5.2.5.
  • CBC § 907.5.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    Elevator Group 202 Emergency voice/alarm communication system in 907.5.2.2 Elevator Hoistways 704.1, 1103.4 Pressurization 909.21

    Water protection 604.5.4 Elevator Keys, Fire Service (see Keys, Fire Service Elevator) Elevator Keys, Nonstandardized Fire Service Key boxes for 506.1.2 Elevator Recall/Emergency Operation 604 Emergency Alarm System 908, 5004.9, 5005.4.4

    Defined 202 Emergency Breakaway Devices 2306.7.5.1, 2307.6.3 Emergency Control Station 2703.1 Defined 202 Emergency Escape and Rescue Opening 202, 1031 Maintenance 1032.7 Emergency Evacuation Drill 405 Defined 202 Frequency 405.3, Table 405.3 Emergency Lighting Equipment Inspection and testing 1032.10 Emergency Planning and Preparedness Chapter 4 Emergency Power Systems 202, 1203 Emergency Relief Venting 2306.6.2.5, 5704.2.7.4 Emergency Repairs 105.1.4 Emergency Responder Enhancement Communications Coverage System 202, 510 Active RF-emitting device 202, 510.4.2.1, 510.4.2.4, 510.5.2.1 Existing buildings 1103.2 High-rise buildings 914.3.6 Passive RF-emitting device 202 Permits 105.6.5 RF-emitting device 510.4.2.1, 510.4.2.4, 510.4.2.5, 510.5.2.1 Emergency Shutoff Valve 202, 5003.2.2.1, 5503.4.6, 5505.3.2, 6303.1.2, 6403.1.1 Emergency Shutoff Valve, Automatic 202, 2305.2.4, 2306.7.4, 5003.2.9.1, 5505.3.2, 5803.1.3, 6303.1.2, 6303.1.2.2, 6403.1.1.1 Emergency Shutoff Valve, Manual 202, 2309.5.2, 2309.5.2.1, 5505.3.2, 5803.1.3, 6303.1.2, 6303.1.2.2, 6403.1.1.2 Emergency Venting for Tanks 607.5, 2306.5, 5704.2.7.4, 5704.2.9.6.1.2, 5704.2.9.7.2 Emergency Voice/Alarm Communications 907.5.2.2

    Atriums 907.2.14

    Captions 907.5.2.2.4 Covered mall buildings 907.2.20 Deep underground buildings 907.2.19 Defined 202

    Group A 907.2.1.1 High-rise building 907.2.13 Special amusement buildings 907.2.12.3 Employee Training 406 Employee Work Area Defined 202

  • CBC § 3008.6.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    3008.6.3.1 Vision panel. A vision panel shall be installed in each fire door assembly in the smoke barrier. The vision panel shall consist of fire-protection-rated glazing, shall comply with the requirements of Section 716 and shall be located to furnish clear vision of the occupant evacuation elevator lobby.

    3008.6.3.2 Door closing. Each fire door assembly in the smoke barrier shall be automatic-closing upon receipt of any fire alarm signal from the emergency voice/alarm communication system serving the building.

    3008.6.4 Lobby size. Each occupant evacuation elevator lobby shall have minimum floor area as follows:

    1. The occupant evacuation elevator lobby floor area shall accommodate, at 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per person, not less than 25 percent of the occupant load of the floor area served by the lobby.
    2. The occupant evacuation elevator lobby floor area shall accommodate one wheelchair space of 30 inches by 52 inches (760 mm by 1320 mm) for each 50 persons, or portion thereof, of the occupant load of the floor area served by the lobby.

    Exception: The size of lobbies serving multiple banks of elevators shall have the minimum floor area approved on an individual basis and shall be consistent with the building’s fire safety and evacuation plan.

    3008.6.5 Signage. An approved sign indicating elevators are suitable for occupant self-evacuation shall be posted on all floors adjacent to each elevator call station serving occupant evacuation elevators.

    3008.6.6 Two-way communication system. A two-way communication system shall be provided in each occupant evacuation elevator lobby for the purpose of initiating communication with the fire command center or an alternate location approved by the fire department. The two-way communication system shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 1009.8.1 and 1009.8.2.

    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.
  • CBC § 510.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    510.4.2 System design. The in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be designed in accordance with Sections 510.4.2.1 through 510.4.2.8 and NFPA 1225.

    510.4.2.1 Amplification systems and components. Buildings and structures that cannot support the required level of inbuilding emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be equipped with systems and components to enhance the radio signals and achieve the required level of in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system specified in Sections 510.4.1 through 510.4.1.3. In-building emergency responder communications enhancement systems utilizing radio-frequency-emitting devices and cabling shall be approved by the fire code official. Prior to installation, all RF-emitting devices shall have the certification of the radio licensing authority and be suitable for public safety use.

    510.4.2.2 Technical criteria. The fire code official shall maintain a document providing the specific technical information and requirements for the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system. This document shall contain, but not be limited to, the various frequencies required, the location of radio sites, the effective radiated power of radio sites, the maximum propagation delay in microseconds, the applications being used and other supporting technical information necessary for system design.

    510.4.2.3 Standby power. In-building emergency responder communications enhancement systems shall be provided with dedicated standby batteries or provided with 2-hour standby batteries and connected to the facility generator power system in accordance with Section 1203. The standby power supply shall be capable of operating the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system at 100-percent system capacity for a duration of not less than 12 hours.

    510.4.2.4 Signal booster requirements. If used, signal boosters shall meet the following requirements:

    1. All signal booster components shall be contained in a NEMA Type 4 cabinet.

    2. Battery systems used for the emergency power source shall be contained in a NEMA 3R or higher-rated cabinet.

    3. Equipment shall have FCC or other radio licensing authority certification and be suitable for public safety use prior to installation.

    4. Where a donor antenna exists, isolation shall be maintained between the donor antenna and all inside antennas to not less than 20dB greater than the system gain under all operating conditions.

    5. Active RF-emitting devices used for in-building emergency responder communications enhancement systems shall have built-in oscillation detection and control circuitry to reduce gain and maintain operation. When a signal booster detects oscillation, a supervisory signal shall be transmitted. In the event of uncorrectable oscillation, the system shall be permitted to shut down.

    6. The installation of amplification systems or systems that operate on or provide the means to cause interference on any in-building emergency responder communications enhancement network shall be coordinated and approved by the fire code official and the frequency license holder(s).

    510.4.2.5 System monitoring. The in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be monitored by a listed fire alarm control unit, or where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended on-site location. Automatic supervisory signals shall include the following:

    1. Loss of normal AC power supply.
    2. System battery charger(s) failure.
    3. Signal source malfunction.
    4. Failure of active RF-emitting device(s).
    5. Low-battery capacity at 70 percent of the 12-hour operating capacity has been depleted.
    6. Failure of critical system components.
    7. The communications link between the fire alarm system and the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system.
    8. Oscillation of active RF-emitting d
  • CBC § 510.4.2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Where a donor antenna exists, isolation shall be maintained between the donor antenna and all inside antennas to not less than 20dB greater than the system gain under all operating conditions.
    2. Active RF-emitting devices used for in-building emergency responder communications enhancement systems shall have built-in oscillation detection and control circuitry to reduce gain and maintain operation. When a signal booster detects oscillation, a supervisory signal shall be transmitted. In the event of uncorrectable oscillation, the system shall be permitted to shut down.
    3. The installation of amplification systems or systems that operate on or provide the means to cause interference on any in-building emergency responder communications enhancement network shall be coordinated and approved by the fire code official and the frequency license holder(s).

    510.4.2.5 System monitoring. The in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be monitored by a listed fire alarm control unit, or where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended on-site location. Automatic supervisory signals shall include the following:

    1. Loss of normal AC power supply.
    2. System battery charger(s) failure.
    3. Signal source malfunction.
    4. Failure of active RF-emitting device(s).
    5. Low-battery capacity at 70 percent of the 12-hour operating capacity has been depleted.
    6. Failure of critical system components.
    7. The communications link between the fire alarm system and the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system.
    8. Oscillation of active RF-emitting device(s).

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 5-9

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

    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    510.4.2.5.1 Single supervisory input. Where approved, a single supervisory input to the fire alarm system to monitor all system supervisory signals shall be permitted.

    510.4.2.6 Additional frequencies and change of frequencies. The in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be capable of modification or expansion in the event frequency changes are required by the FCC or other frequency licensing authorities, or additional frequencies are made available by the FCC or other frequency licensing authorities.

    510.4.2.7 Design documents. The fire code official shall have the authority to require “as-built” design documents and specifications for in-building emergency responder communications enhancement systems. The documents shall be in a format acceptable to the fire code official.

    510.4.2.8 Near-far effect. Where a signal booster is required by the RF system designer, the dynamic range of the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be designed to minimize the effects of strong signal automatic gain control on weak signal uplink performance.

    510.4.2.9 Noise interference. Where a signal booster is used, signal booster type(s) and the uplink signal and noise levels shall be coordinated with and approved by all frequency license holder(s) that may be adversely impacted by any transmitted noise resulting from the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system. Systems shall be in compliance with all frequency licensing authority requirements.

    510.5 Installation requirements. The installation of the in-building emergency responder communications enhancement system shall be in accordance with NFPA 1225 and Sections 510.5.2 through 510.5.5.

Frequently asked questions

Do the CBC requirements specify an exact device model or UL listing for in‑car systems?

No. CBC § 3001.2 requires a two‑way audible and visual system and points designers to the California Elevator Safety Orders (Title 8) and referenced standards for technical and listing requirements; the CBC does not list specific device models.

Is a camera inside the car sufficient for the “visual” mode?

CBC § 3001.2 requires a visual communication mode to permit authorized personnel to verify presence and entrapment; whether a camera, indicator light plus voice, or another visual means is acceptable depends on meeting the functional tests in the Elevator Safety Orders and any applicable referenced standards. Confirm with Title 8 requirements.

Are lobby two‑way phones required for every elevator?

Not for every elevator by § 3001.2 alone: lobby two‑way devices are specifically required for occupant‑evacuation elevators and certain accessible egress requirements (see §§ 3008.6.6 and 1009.8). For ordinary passenger elevators the in‑car system is mandatory; lobby devices depend on elevator classification and egress/evacuation role.

What if the building has a fire‑alarm public‑address system — can that substitute for the in‑car unit?

No. The in‑car two‑way audible + visual communication required by CBC § 3001.2 is separate; building PA/EVAC systems complement but do not replace the in‑car two‑way system required by Title 8/Elevator Safety Orders and § 3001.2.

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