CBC · California Building Code

How to design and apply fire barriers (ratings, continuity, penetrations)

Fire barriers are rated walls required to separate fire areas. Use Table 707.3.10 to pick the rating, build the wall to be continuous floor‑to‑deck per § 707.5, and protect any openings or penetrations with listed firestop or tested assemblies so the wall keeps its required rating.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Fire barriers are vertical fire-resistance-rated elements installed where required by the CBC to subdivide a building into fire areas, separate incidental uses, shaft and exit enclosures, etc.; their required fire-resistance ratings are set in § 707.3 and the fire-area ratings are listed in Table 707.3.10. Fire barriers must be continuous (extend from foundation or floor/ceiling below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above) and securely attached, and exterior walls that are used as part of required enclosures must comply with the exterior wall rules in § 705 rather than the barrier enclosure requirements. Penetrations and openings through fire barriers must be protected with listed systems or tested assemblies so that the required rating is maintained.

Requirements in detail

Fire-resistance rating (how long a barrier must resist fire)

  • The general rule is given in § 707.3 — where the required rating for a fire barrier depends on the function and the occupancies involved.
  • When a single occupancy is subdivided into multiple fire areas, the required ratings are taken from Table 707.3.10; for mixed occupancies the highest applicable rating applies.
Decision dimension Typical values Code reference
Occupancy groups requiring 4‑hour barriers H‑1, H‑2 § 707.3.10
Occupancy groups requiring 3‑hour barriers F‑1, H‑3, S‑1 § 707.3.10
Occupancy groups requiring 2‑hour barriers A, B, E, F‑2, H‑4, H‑5, I, L, M, R, S‑2 § 707.3.10
Occupancy group requiring 1‑hour barriers U § 707.3.10

Notes:

  • If fire areas are of mixed occupancy, use the highest required rating from the table for the combination being separated (§ 707.3.10).

Continuity and supporting construction (how the barrier must be arranged)

  • Fire barriers must extend from the top of the foundation or the floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above and be securely attached; they must be continuous through concealed spaces (for example, above a suspended ceiling) (§ 707.5).
  • Supporting construction (elements that carry the barrier) must be protected to provide the required fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier they support; hollow vertical spaces within the barrier must be fireblocked at each floor per § 707.5.1.
  • Exceptions allow certain enclosures (shafts, interior exit stairway enclosures, exit access stairs) to terminate at an approved top enclosure per other sections — check the specific exception language in § 707.5.

Exterior walls used as part of fire barriers

  • Where an exterior wall serves as part of a required fire-resistance-rated shaft, separation or enclosure for stairways, ramps or exit passageways, that exterior wall must comply with the exterior wall requirements in § 705; the separate fire-resistance‑rated enclosure requirements do not apply to that exterior wall (§ 707.4). Check the § 707.4 exceptions (for example, exterior walls already required to be fire-resistance rated by other sections).

Penetrations and openings (maintaining the rating through the barrier)

  • Openings (doors, windows, glazed panels) through fire barriers are addressed by the opening protection requirements (see § 716 references in the CBC when you design opening protectives for fire barriers) — but the barrier’s rating and the tested opening protective’s rating must match the situation. § 707 references opening protection requirements.
  • Through-penetrations in fire-resistance-rated walls (pipes, cables, ducts, conduits) must be protected either by:
    • A penetration and sleeve system that is part of the tested fire-resistance-rated assembly (i.e., the penetration was included in the assembly test), or
    • A through‑penetration firestop system listed and tested in accordance with ASTM E814 / UL 1479 (with a minimum positive pressure test condition where required), and the firestop system must provide an F‑rating at least equal to the wall’s required fire-resistance rating (§ 714.4.1 and § 714.4.1.2).
  • Membrane penetrations (penetrating only the wall membrane, not the full assembly) must also be protected so the wall’s required fire resistance is not reduced (§ 714.4.2). Listed systems must be installed per their listing and manufacturer instructions (§ 714.2).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Exterior wall substitution: If an exterior wall is serving as part of an enclosure (shaft, stair, exit passageway), the exterior wall rules in § 705 apply and the usual fire‑resistance‑rated enclosure rules for fire barriers do not; however, a number of exceptions apply (see § 707.4).
  • Shaft top terminations and enclosed stair top terminations: Certain shafts and exit enclosures may terminate at an approved top enclosure rather than extend to the roof sheathing (see the exceptions in § 707.5).
  • Where penetrations are included in the tested assembly (ASTM E119 / UL 263 test), a fire damper or separate penetration firestop may not be required; always confirm whether the penetration was included in the assembly test report (§ 714 and related).

If you have a state‑regulated occupancy (SFM jurisdictions) some additional requirements (for example for ducts, dampers and other features) may be enforced by the Office of the State Fire Marshal — consult the CBC cross‑references and the CFC for those special cases.

Common mistakes

  • Treating any wall labeled “fire‑resistant” as a compliant fire barrier without verifying the required fire‑resistance rating from § 707.3 / Table 707.3.10. Always confirm the occupancy group and pick the highest required rating for mixed occupancies.
  • Failing to provide continuity: not extending the barrier to the underside of the roof/floor sheathing or failing to protect concealed spaces above a suspended ceiling — violates § 707.5.
  • Using unlisted or improperly rated penetration firestop materials or failing to match the firestop F‑rating to the barrier’s required rating (example: installing a firestop rated only for 1 hour in a 2‑hour barrier). The code requires listed systems installed per the listing or tested systems per ASTM E814/UL 1479 (§ 714.2, § 714.4.1.2).
  • Assuming exterior wall equals fire barrier: if the exterior wall is being used as part of an enclosure you must follow § 705 rules (not the general fire barrier enclosure rules) — check § 707.4 before simplifying design.
  • Forgetting to protect supporting construction: the elements that support the fire barrier must be protected so the barrier can perform (see § 707.5.1).

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A nightclub (Group A) tenant space is being divided into two fire areas (same occupancy group, A). The design team must provide a fire barrier between the two fire areas.

Step 1 — required rating:

  • From Table 707.3.10, Group A is listed in the “2‑hour” row (A, B, E, F‑2, etc. → 2 hours). Therefore the separating fire barrier must be 2 hours. (§ 707.3.10)

Step 2 — continuity:

  • The 2‑hour fire barrier must extend from the top of the foundation or the floor/ceiling below up to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above and be continuous through any concealed spaces (no unprotected gaps above a suspended ceiling). (§ 707.5)

Step 3 — supporting construction:

  • If the wall is supported by floor framing, that supporting construction must be protected so the wall system can achieve the 2‑hour rating (see § 707.5.1).

Step 4 — penetrations:

  • Suppose a bank of four 2‑inch metal conduits and a 6‑inch HVAC duct penetrate the barrier. For the conduits, you could use a listed through‑penetration firestop system tested to ASTM E814 / UL 1479 with an F‑rating ≥ 2 hours and installed exactly per the listing. For the duct, either the penetration must be included in the tested assembly or the duct opening must be provided with a listed fire damper or other approved protection; if the assembly test included the duct opening and penetration, that may be acceptable without additional damper. (§ 714.4.1.2 and cross references)

Step 5 — openings and doors:

  • Any door in that 2‑hour barrier must have an opening protective whose rating and listing meet the testing/installation requirements for that application (see § 716 as referenced by § 707).

Result: Provide a tested 2‑hour wall assembly, extend it full height through concealed spaces, protect supporting elements so the assembly achieves 2 hours, and install listed through‑penetration firestop systems and listed opening protectives rated and installed per their listing so that the assembly’s 2‑hour rating is maintained.

Related provisions

  • § 714 — Penetrations (through‑penetrations and membrane penetrations; testing and listings required)
  • § 716 — Opening protectives (doors, windows, glazing in rated assemblies) — referenced by § 707 for openings in fire barriers
  • § 705 — Exterior walls (when exterior walls are serving as part of required enclosures) — referenced in § 707.4
  • § 707.5 / § 707.5.1 — Continuity and supporting construction requirements for fire barriers
  • § 713 — Shaft enclosures (constructed as fire barriers per § 707 and with special continuity/penetration rules)
  • § 717 — Ducts and air transfer openings (fire damper requirements where applicable; related to penetrations through barriers)

Code references

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

  • CBC § 712.1.16 High relevance — show source text

    712.1.16 Openings otherwise permitted. Vertical openings shall be permitted where allowed by other sections of this code.

    SECTION 713—SHAFT ENCLOSURES

    713.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to shafts required to protect openings and penetrations through floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed in accordance with Section 1023.

    713.2 Construction. Shaft enclosures shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    713.3 Materials. Shaft enclosures shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.

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    713.4 Fire-resistance rating. Shaft enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where connecting four stories or more, and not less than 1 hour where connecting less than four stories. The number of stories connected by the shaft enclosure shall include any basements but not any mezzanines. Shaft enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than the floor assembly penetrated, but need not exceed 2 hours. Shaft enclosures shall meet the requirements of Section 703.2.1.1.

    Exception: Shafts having a reduced fire-resistance rating in high-rise buildings in accordance with Section 403.2.1.2.

    713.5 Continuity. Shaft enclosures shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both, and shall have continuity in accordance with Section 707.5 for fire barriers or Section 711.2.2 for horizontal assemblies, as applicable.

    713.6 Exterior walls. Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required shaft enclosure, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls and the fire-resistance-rated enclosure requirements shall not apply.

    Exception: Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021.2 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.

    713.7 Openings. Openings in a shaft enclosure shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 as required for fire barriers. Doors shall be self- or automatic-closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6.

    713.7.1 Prohibited openings. Openings other than those necessary for the purpose of the shaft shall not be permitted in shaft enclosures.

    713.8 Penetrations. Penetrations in a shaft enclosure shall be protected in accordance with Section 714 as required for fire barriers or horizontal assemblies or both. Structural elements, such as beams or joists, where protected in accordance with Section 714 shall be permitted to penetrate a shaft enclosure.

    713.8.1 Prohibited penetrations. Penetrations other than those necessary for the purpose of the shaft shall not be permitted in shaft enclosures.

    Exception: Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the outside of shaft enclosures. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714.4.2.

    713.9 Joints. Joints in a shaft enclosure shall comply with Section 715.

  • CBC § 708.5 High relevance — show source text

    708.5 Exterior walls. Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required fire-resistance-rated separation, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls, and the fire-resistance-rated separation requirements shall not apply.

    Exception: Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021.2 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.

    708.6 Openings. Openings in a fire partition shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

    708.7 Penetrations. Penetrations of fire partitions shall comply with Section 714.

    708.8 Joints. Joints made in or between fire partitions shall comply with Section 715.

    708.9 Ducts and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a fire partition by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.

    SECTION 709—SMOKE BARRIERS

    709.1 General. Vertical and horizontal smoke barriers shall comply with this section.

    709.2 Materials. Smoke barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.

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    709.3 Fire-resistance rating. A 1-hour fire-resistance rating is required for smoke barriers.

    Exception: Smoke barriers constructed of minimum 0.10-inch-thick (2.5 mm) steel in Group I-3 buildings.

    709.4 Continuity. Smoke barriers shall form an effective membrane continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above, including continuity through concealed spaces, such as those found above suspended ceilings, and interstitial structural and mechanical spaces. The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the wall or floor supported in buildings of other than Type IIB, IIIB or VB construction. Smoke-barrier walls used to separate smoke compartments shall comply with Section 709.4.1. Smoke-barrier walls used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4 or to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.6.2 shall comply with Section 709.4.2.

    Exception: Smoke-barrier walls are not required in interstitial spaces where such spaces are designed and constructed with ceilings or exterior walls that provide resistance to the passage of fire and smoke equivalent to that provided by the smoke-barrier walls.

    709.4.1 Smoke-barrier assemblies separating smoke compartments. Smoke-barrier assemblies used to separate smoke compartments shall form an effective membrane enclosure that is continuous from an outside wall or smoke barrier wall to an outside wall or another smoke barrier wall and to the horizontal assemblies.

  • CBC § 1010.1.1. High relevance — show source text

    Positive latching devices are not required. Factory-applied or field-applied protective plates are not required to be labeled. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1. 2. In Group I- 2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors installed in accordance with Section 1010.3.3 and protected in accordance with Section 716. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.

    709.5.1 Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where doors protecting openings in smoke barriers are installed across a corridor and have hold-open devices, the doors shall be automatic-closing in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6. Such doors shall have a vision panel with fire-protection-rated glazing materials in fire-protection-rated frames, the area of which shall not exceed that tested. In Group I-2, where swinging doors are installed across a corridor, such doors shall be opposite swinging pairs.

    709.6 Penetrations. Penetrations of smoke barriers shall comply with Section 714.

    709.7 Joints. Joints made in or between smoke barriers shall comply with Section 715.

    709.8 Ducts and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a smoke barrier by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.

    SECTION 710—SMOKE PARTITIONS

    710.1 General. Smoke partitions installed as required elsewhere in the code shall comply with this section.

    710.2 Materials. The walls shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction. In Group I-2, smoke partitions shall have framing covered with noncombustible materials having an approved thermal barrier with an index of not less than 15 in accor- dance with FM 4880, UL 1040, NFPA 286 or UL 1715.

    710.3 Fire-resistance rating. Unless required elsewhere in the code, smoke partitions are not required to have a fire-resistance rating.

    710.4 Continuity. Smoke partitions shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above or to the underside of the ceiling above where the ceiling membrane is constructed to limit the transfer of smoke.

    Exception: In Group I-2, a lay-in ceiling system shall be considered capable of limiting the transfer of smoke where the ceiling tiles weigh not less than 1 pound per square foot (4.882 kg/m2) and where the HVAC system is fully ducted in accordance with the Cali- fornia Mechanical Code.

    710.4.1 Smoke partition walls enclosing elevator lobbies. Smoke partition walls used to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 3006.3 shall form an enclosure that terminates at a fire barrier having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour, another smoke partition or an outside wall.

    710.5 Openings. Openings in smoke partitions shall comply with Sections 710.5.1 through 710.5.3.

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  • CBC § 717.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    717.5.1 Fire walls. Ducts and air transfer openings permitted in fire walls in accordance with Section 706.11 shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing.

    717.5.1.1 Horizontal exits. A listed smoke damper designed to resist the passage of smoke shall be provided at each point a duct or air transfer opening penetrates a fire wall that serves as a horizontal exit.

    717.5.2 Fire barriers. In other than Group A, E, H, I, L and R occupancies, high-rise buildings, and other applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Ducts and air transfer openings of fire barriers shall be protected with listed fire dampers installed in accordance with their listing. Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways, except as permitted by Sections 1023.5 and 1024.6, respectively.

    Exceptions: Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of fire barriers where any of the following apply:

    1. Penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 as part of the fire-resistance-rated assembly.
    2. Ducts are used as part of an approved smoke control system in accordance with Section 909 and where the use of a fire damper would interfere with the operation of a smoke control system.
    3. Such walls are penetrated by fully ducted HVAC systems, have a required fire-resistance rating of 1 hour or less, are in areas of other than Group H and are in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. For the purposes of this exception, a fully ducted HVAC system shall be a duct system for conveying supply, return or exhaust air as part of the structure’s HVAC system. Such a duct system shall be constructed of sheet steel not less than No. 26 gage thickness and shall be continuous from the air-handling appliance or equipment to the air outlet and inlet terminals. Nonmetal flexible air connectors shall be permitted in the following locations in accordance with Section 603 of the California Mechanical Code: 3.1. At the duct connection to the air handling unit or equipment located within the mechanical room. 3.2. From an overhead metal duct to a ceiling diffuser within the same room.

    [SFM] For Group A, E, H, I, L and R occupancies, high-rise buildings, and other applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, ducts and air transfer openings of fire barriers shall be protected with approved fire and smoke dampers installed in accordance with their listing. Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate exit enclosures and exit passageways except as permitted by Sections 1023.5 and 1024.6, respectively.

    Exceptions: 1. Fire dampers are not required at penetrations of fire barriers where penetrations are tested in accordance with ASTM E119 as part of the fire-resistance rated assembly.

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  • CBC § 708.4.3 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: In buildings of Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction, the supporting construction requirement shall not apply to fire partitions separating tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings, fire partitions separating dwelling units, fire partitions separating sleeping units, fire partitions serving as corridor walls, fire partitions separating ambulatory care facilities from adjacent spaces or corridors, fire partitions separating dwelling and sleeping units from Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies and fire partitions separating vestibules from the level of exit discharge.

    708.4.3 Fireblocks and draftstops in combustible construction. In combustible construction where fire partitions do not extend to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above, the space above and along the line of the fire partition shall be provided with one of the following:

    1. Fireblocking up to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above using materials complying with Section 718.2.1.

    2. Draftstops up to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above using materials complying with Section 718.3.1 for floors or Section 718.4.1 for attics.

    Exceptions:

    1. Buildings equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, or in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 provided that protection is provided in the space between the top of the fire partition and underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above as required for systems complying with Section 903.3.1.1.

    2. Where corridor walls provide a sleeping unit or dwelling unit separation, draftstops shall only be required above one of the corridor walls.

    3. In Group R-2 occupancies with fewer than four dwelling units, fireblocking and draftstops shall not be required.

    4. In Group R-2 occupancies up to and including four stories in height in buildings not exceeding 60 feet (18 288 mm) in height above grade plane, the attic space shall be subdivided by draftstops into areas not exceeding 3,000 square feet (279 m [2] ) or above every two dwelling units, whichever is smaller.

    5. In Group R-3 occupancies with fewer than three dwelling units, fireblocking and draftstops shall not be required in floor assemblies.

    708.5 Exterior walls. Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required fire-resistance-rated separation, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls, and the fire-resistance-rated separation requirements shall not apply.

    Exception: Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021.2 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.

    708.6 Openings. Openings in a fire partition shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

    708.7 Penetrations. Penetrations of fire partitions shall comply with Section 714.

    708.8 Joints. Joints made in or between fire partitions shall comply with Section 715.

    708.9 Ducts and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a fire partition by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.

    SECTION 709—SMOKE BARRIERS

    709.1 General. Vertical and horizontal smoke barriers shall comply with this section.

    709.2 Materials. Smoke barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.

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  • CBC § 707.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 707—FIRE BARRIERS

    707.1 General. Fire barriers installed as required elsewhere in this code or the California Fire Code shall comply with this section.

    707.2 Materials. Fire barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.

    707.3 Fire-resistance rating. The fire-resistance rating of fire barriers shall comply with this section.

    707.3.1 Shaft enclosures. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from a shaft shall comply with Section 713.4.

    707.3.2 Interior exit stairway and ramp construction. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 1023.1.

    707.3.3 Enclosures for exit access stairways. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit access stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 713.4.

    707.3.4 Exit passageway. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit passageway shall comply with Section 1024.3.

    707.3.5 Horizontal exit. The fire-resistance rating of the separation between building areas connected by a horizontal exit shall comply with Section 1026.1.

    707.3.6 Atriums. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating atriums shall comply with Section 404.6.

    707.3.7 Incidental uses. The fire barrier separating incidental uses from other spaces in the building shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 509.1.

    707.3.8 Control areas. Fire barriers separating control areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required in Section 414.2.4.

    707.3.9 Separated occupancies. Where the provisions of Section 508.4 are applicable, the fire barrier separating mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 508.4 based on the occupancies being separated.

    707.3.10 Fire areas. The fire barriers, fire walls, horizontal assemblies or combinations thereof separating a single occupancy into different fire areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 707.3.10. The fire barriers, fire walls, horizontal assemblies or combinations thereof separating fire areas of mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than the highest value indicated in Table 707.3.10 for the occupancies under consideration.

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    TABLE 707.3.10—FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATING REQUIREMENTS FOR
    FIRE BARRIERS, FIRE WALLS OR HORIZONTAL ASSEMBLIES BETWEEN FIRE AREAS    		 Col2
    OCCUPANCY GROUP FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours)
    H-1, H-2 4
    F-1, H-3, S-1 3
    A, B, E, F-2, H-4, H-5, I,L, M, R, S-2 2
    U 1
  • CBC § 2.6 High relevance — show source text

    Fire district D102.2.6, D102.1 Fire-resistance ratings 703, 705.5, Table 705.5, 706.5.1, 707.4, 1402.4 Flashing, veneered walls 1404.11.1, 1404.4

    Foam plastic insulation 2603.4.1.4, 2603.5 Glazing, rated 715.8 Joints 705.10, 714 Light-transmitting plastic panels 2607 Materials 705.4, 1403.1, 1405 Metal composite material (MCM) 1406 Nonbearing Chapter 6 Opening protection 705.11, 705.9, 716.2.5.4

    Parapets 705.12 Performance requirements 1402 Projections 705.2 Structural stability 705.7 Vapor retarders 1404.3 Veneer (see Veneer) Weather resistance 1402.2, 1404.2, 1406.6, 1407.4 Weather-resistant barriers 1404.2 Wall, Fire (see Fire Walls) Wall, Foundation (see Foundations) Wall, Interior Finishes 803, 1210.2 Opening protection 716, 717 Wall, Interior Nonbearing (See Partitions) Wall, Masonry 202 Wood Contact 2304.12.1.3,

    2304.12.2.1

    Wall, Parapet 705.12, 1503.3, 2109.2.4.3 Wall, Party (See Fire Walls) Wall, Penetrations 714.4 Wall, Retaining (See Retaining Wall) Wall, Veneered (See Veneer) Chapter 14 Wall, Wood Construction Bracing 2308.10 Cripple walls 2308.9.6 Cutting, notching and boring of dimensional wood framing 2308.6 Exterior framing 2308.9 Fastening schedule Table 2304.10.2 Framing 2304.3, 2308.9 Hillside light-frame construction 2308.2.7 Interior bearing partition 2308.9.4 Interior nonbearing partition 2308.9.1 Openings 2308.9.5 Shear walls 2305.1, 2306.3 Sheathing (see Sheathing) Studs 2308.9.1 Top plates 2308.9.3.2 Waste, Construction 420.12 Water-Reactive Materials Table 307.1(1), 307.4, 307.5. 415.8.4

    Weather Protection

    Exterior walls 1404.2

    Roofs 1503 Welding Materials, verification of steel reinforcement 1705.3.2 Special inspections 1705.13.3, 1705.2, 1705.3.1 Splices of reinforcement in masonry 2107.3, 2108.3 Wildland-Urban Interface 101.4.8

    Wind Load 1609 Basic design wind speed 1609.3 Construction documents

    107, 1603.1.4 Exposure category 1609.4 Glazing 1609.2, 2404 Hurricane 1507.1.1 Masonry,

  • CBC § 903.2.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    Mercantile 903.2.7

    Residential 903.2.8

    Storage 903.2.9, 903.2.10 Fire Barriers 707

    Continuity 707.5, 713.5 Exterior walls Table 705.5, 707.4,

    713.6 Fire-resistance rating of walls 603.1, 703, 707.3, 713.4 Glazing, rated 716.3.4 Incidental 509.4.1

    Inspection 110.3.8 Joints 707.8, 713.9, 715, 2508.5 Marking 703.5 Materials 707.2, 713.3 Opening protection 707.6, 707.10, 713.7, 713.10, 714.4, 716, 717.5.2 Penetrations 707.7, 713.8 Shaft enclosure 713.1

    Special provisions Aircraft hangars 412.3.4, 412.4.1 Atriums 404.3, 404.6 Covered and open mall buildings 402.4.2

    Fire pumps 403.3.4, 913.2.1 Flammable finishes 416.2

    Group H-2 415.9.1.2, 426.1.2 Group H-3 and H-4 415.10 Group H-5 415.11.1.2, 415.11.1.5, 415.11.6.1, 415.11.7.4 Group I-3 408.5, 408.7 Hazardous materials 414.2.1 Higher education laboratories 428.3 High-rise 403.2.1.2, 403.2.2, 403.3, 403.4.8.1

    Organic coating 418.4, 418.5, 418.6 Stages and platforms 410.5.1, 410.5.2

    Fire Command Center 403.4.6, 412.2.3.2, 911, 3007.7, 3008.6.6, 3008.7 Fire Dampers 717.2, 717.3, 717.4, 717.5 Fire Department (see Emergency Responders) Fire Detection System (see Fire Alarm and Smoke Detection Systems) Fire District Appendix D Fire Door (see Opening Protectives) 716, 1023.4 Fire Escape 412.7.3 Fire Extinguishers, Portable 906, 3309 Fire Extinguishing Systems 416.5, 417.4, 903, 904 Fire Partition 708

    Continuity 708.4 Elevator door protection 3006 Exterior walls Table 705.5, 708.5

    Fireblocks and draftstops 708.4.3 Fire-resistance rating 603.1, 703, 708.3 Glazing, rated 716.3.4 Inspection 110.3.8 Joint treatment gypsum 2508.5 Joints 708.8, 715 Marking 703.5 Materials 708.2

    Opening protection 708.5, 714.4, 716, 717.5.4

  • CFC § 701 Medium relevance — show source text

    Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features

    The maintenance of assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated is a key component in a passive fire protection philosophy. Chapter 7 sets forth requirements to maintain required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the basics of what construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers need to be maintained as well as defining the owner’s responsibility. Sections 703 through 708, deals with various fire and smoke protection features that must also be maintained.

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    Chapter 8 Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings

    The overall purpose of Chapter 8 is to regulate interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards within buildings. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the CBC, which regulates the interior finishes of new buildings.

    Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems

    Chapter 9 prescribes the minimum requirements for active systems of fire protection equipment to perform the following functions: detect a fire, alert the occupants or fire department of a fire emergency, and control smoke and control or extinguish the fire. Generally, the requirements are based on the occupancy, the height and the area of the building because these are the factors that most affect firefighting capabilities and the relative hazard of a specific building or portion thereof. This chapter parallels and is substantially duplicated in Chapter 9 of the CBC; however, this chapter also contains periodic testing criteria that are not contained in the CBC. In addition, the special fire protection system requirements based on use and occupancy found in CBC Chapter 4 are duplicated in CFC Chapter 9 as a user convenience.

    Chapter 10 Means of Egress

    The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7 of the CBC), interior finish (see Chapter 8 of the CBC), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.

    Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings

    Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and intends to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for retroactive requirements to install or upgrade fire safety features to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the CBC. Prior to the 2009 edition, its content existed in the CFC but in a random manner that was neither efficient nor user-friendly. In the 2007/2008 International Code Council (ICC) code development cycle, a code change (F294-07/ 08) was approved that consolidated the retroactive elements of CFC into a single chapter for easier and more efficient reference and application to existing buildings.

    Chapter 12 Energy Systems

  • CFC § 701 Medium relevance — show source text

    PART I—ADMINISTRATIVE

    Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.

    Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.

    Chapter 2 Definitions.

    Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.

    PART II—GENERAL SAFETY PROVISIONS

    Chapter 3 General Requirements

    General regulations contained in Chapter 3, are intended to improve premises safety for everyone, including construction workers, tenants, operations and maintenance personnel, and emergency response personnel.

    Chapter 4 Emergency Planning and Preparedness

    Chapter 4 addresses the human contribution to life safety during emergencies. Continuous training and scheduled fire, evacuation and lockdown drills can be as important as the required periodic inspections and maintenance of built-in fire protection features. The level of preparation by the occupants also improves the emergency responders’ abilities during an emergency.

    PART III—BUILDING AND EQUIPMENT DESIGN FEATURES

    Chapter 5 Fire Service Features

    The requirements of Chapter 5 apply to all buildings and occupancies and pertain to access roads, access to building openings and roofs, premises identification, key boxes, fire protection water supplies, fire command centers, fire department access to equipment, and in-building emergency responder communication system coverage.

    Chapter 6 Building Services and Systems

    Chapter 6 provides a more systematic view of building systems and services as they relate to potential safety hazards and when and how they should be installed.

    Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features

    The maintenance of assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated is a key component in a passive fire protection philosophy. Chapter 7 sets forth requirements to maintain required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the basics of what construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers need to be maintained as well as defining the owner’s responsibility. Sections 703 through 708, deals with various fire and smoke protection features that must also be maintained.

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    Chapter 8 Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings

    The overall purpose of Chapter 8 is to regulate interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards within buildings. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the CBC, which regulates the interior finishes of new buildings.

    Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems

    Chapter 9 prescribes the minimum requirements for active systems of fire protection equipment to perform the following functions: detect a fire, alert the occupants or fire department of a fire emergency, and control smoke and control or extinguish the fire. Generally, the requirements are based on the occupancy, the height and the area of the building because these are the factors that most affect firefighting capabilities and the relative hazard of a specific building or portion thereof. This chapter parallels and is substantially duplicated in Chapter 9 of the CBC; however, this chapter also contains periodic testing criteria that are not contained in the CBC. In addition, the special fire protection system requirements based on use and occupancy found in CBC

  • CBC § 706.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    706.7 Combustible framing in fire walls. Adjacent combustible members entering into a concrete or masonry fire wall from opposite sides shall not have less than a 4-inch (102 mm) distance between embedded ends. Where combustible members frame into hollow walls or walls of hollow units, hollow spaces shall be solidly filled for the full thickness of the wall and for a distance not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above, below and between the structural members, with noncombustible materials approved for fireblocking.

    706.8 Openings. Each opening through a fire wall shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 and shall not exceed 156 square feet (15 m [2] ). The aggregate width of openings at any floor level shall not exceed 25 percent of the length of the wall.

    Exceptions:

    1. Openings are not permitted in party walls constructed in accordance with Section 706.1.1.
    2. Openings shall not be limited to 156 square feet (15 m [2] ) where both buildings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

    706.9 Penetrations. Penetrations of fire walls shall comply with Section 714.

    706.10 Joints. Joints made in or between fire walls shall comply with Section 715.

    706.11 Ducts and air transfer openings. Ducts and air transfer openings shall not penetrate fire walls.

    Exception: Penetrations by ducts and air transfer openings of fire walls that are not on a lot line shall be allowed provided that the penetrations comply with Section 717. The size and aggregate width of all openings shall not exceed the limitations of Section 706.8.

    SECTION 707—FIRE BARRIERS

    707.1 General. Fire barriers installed as required elsewhere in this code or the California Fire Code shall comply with this section.

    707.2 Materials. Fire barriers shall be of materials permitted by the building type of construction.

    707.3 Fire-resistance rating. The fire-resistance rating of fire barriers shall comply with this section.

    707.3.1 Shaft enclosures. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from a shaft shall comply with Section 713.4.

    707.3.2 Interior exit stairway and ramp construction. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 1023.1.

    707.3.3 Enclosures for exit access stairways. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit access stairway or ramp shall comply with Section 713.4.

    707.3.4 Exit passageway. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating building areas from an exit passageway shall comply with Section 1024.3.

    707.3.5 Horizontal exit. The fire-resistance rating of the separation between building areas connected by a horizontal exit shall comply with Section 1026.1.

    707.3.6 Atriums. The fire-resistance rating of the fire barrier separating atriums shall comply with Section 404.6.

    707.3.7 Incidental uses. The fire barrier separating incidental uses from other spaces in the building shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 509.1.

  • CBC § 910.4.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    910.4.3.1 Makeup air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the floor level. Operation of makeup air openings shall be manual or automatic. The minimum gross area of makeup air inlets shall be 8 square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m [2] per 0.4719 m [3] /s) of smoke exhaust.

    910.4.4 Activation. The mechanical smoke removal system shall be activated by manual controls only.

    910.4.5 Manual control location. Manual controls shall be located where they are able to be accessed by the fire service from an exterior door of the building and separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-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.

    910.4.6 Control wiring. Wiring for operation and control of mechanical smoke removal systems shall be connected ahead of the main disconnect in accordance with Section 701.12E of the California Electrical Code and be protected against interior fire exposure to temperatures in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) for a period of not less than 15 minutes.

    910.4.7 Controls. Where building air-handling and mechanical smoke removal systems are combined or where independent building air-handling systems are provided, fans shall automatically shut down in accordance with the California Mechanical Code . The manual controls provided for the smoke removal system shall have the capability to override the automatic shutdown of fans that are part of the smoke removal system.

    910.5 Maintenance and testing. Maintenance and testing of smoke and heat vents and mechanical smoke removal systems shall be in accordance with Sections 910.5.1 and 910.5.2. A written record of inspection, testing and maintenance that includes the date, identification of personnel involved, any unsatisfactory result, corrective action taken and replaced parts shall be maintained on the premises.

    910.5.1 Smoke and heat vents. Smoke and heat vents shall be maintained in an operative condition. Inspection, testing and maintenance shall be in accordance with NFPA 204 except as follows:

    1. Mechanically operated smoke and heat vents shall be inspected annually and operationally tested not less than every 5

    years. 2. Gravity dropout smoke and heat vents shall be inspected annually. 3. Fused, damaged or painted fusible links shall be replaced.

    910.5.2 Mechanical smoke removal systems. Mechanical smoke removal systems shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA 204 and the equipment manufacturer’s instructions except as follows:

    1. Systems shall be inspected and operationally tested annually.
    2. Testing shall include the operation of all system components, controls and ancillary equipment, such as makeup air openings.
    3. A written schedule for routine maintenance and operational testing shall be established and testing shall be conducted in accordance with the schedule.

    SECTION 911—EXPLOSION CONTROL

    911.1 General. Explosion control shall be provided in the following locations:

    1. Where a structure, room or space is occupied for purposes involving explosion hazards as identified in Table 911.1.
    2. Where quantities of hazardous materials specified in Table 911.1 exceed the maximum allowable quantities in Table 5003.1.1(1).
  • CBC § 707.3.11 High relevance — show source text

    707.3.11 Horizontal separation offsets. The fire-resistance rating of a fire barrier serving as the vertical offset in a horizontal building separation shall comply with Section 510.2.

    707.4 Exterior walls. Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required fire-resistance-rated shaft, or separation or enclosure for a stairway, ramp or exit passageway, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls and the fire-resistance-rated enclosure or separation requirements shall not apply.

    Exceptions:

    1. Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps, Section 1024.8 for exit passageways and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.
    2. Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1207 of the California Fire Code for enclosure of energy storage systems.

    707.5 Continuity. Fire barriers shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above and shall be securely attached thereto. Such fire barriers shall be continuous through concealed space, such as the space above a suspended ceiling. Joints and voids at intersections shall comply with Sections 707.8 and 707.9

    Exceptions:

    1. Shaft enclosures shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section 713.12.
    2. Interior exit stairway and ramp enclosures required by Section 1023 and exit access stairway and ramp enclosures required by Section 1019 shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section 713.12.
    3. An exit passageway enclosure required by Section 1024.3 that does not extend to the underside of the floor sheathing, roof sheathing, slab or deck above shall be enclosed at the top with construction of the same fire-resistance rating as required for the exit passageway. 4. In Group I-2 occupancies, in other than rooms containing stationary fuel cell power systems required to be separated per California Fire Code Section 1206.6.2, fire barriers required by Section 509.4 shall be permitted to terminate at an individu- ally protected structural member in the same plane, provided the structural member has a solid web or solid surface along its length for the full height of the structural member and has a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required for the fire barrier wall.

    5. In Group I-2 occupancies, in other than rooms containing stationary fuel cell power systems required to be separated per California Fire Code Section 1206.6.2, fire barrier separations required by Section 509.4 that do not extend to the underside of the roof sheathing.

    707.5.1 Supporting construction. The supporting construction for a fire barrier shall be protected to afford the required fireresistance rating of the fire barrier supported. Hollow vertical spaces within a fire barrier shall be fireblocked in accordance with Section 718.2 at every floor level.

    Exceptions:

    1. The maximum required fire-resistance rating for assemblies supporting fire barriers separating tank storage as provided for in Section 415.9.1.2 shall be 2 hours, but not less than required by Table 601 for the building construction type.
    2. Supporting construction for 1-hour fire barriers required by Table 509.1 in buildings of Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction is not required to be fire-resistance rated unless required by other sections of this code.
  • CBC § 707.3.8 High relevance — show source text

    707.3.8 Control areas. Fire barriers separating control areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that required in Section 414.2.4.

    707.3.9 Separated occupancies. Where the provisions of Section 508.4 are applicable, the fire barrier separating mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 508.4 based on the occupancies being separated.

    707.3.10 Fire areas. The fire barriers, fire walls, horizontal assemblies or combinations thereof separating a single occupancy into different fire areas shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that indicated in Table 707.3.10. The fire barriers, fire walls, horizontal assemblies or combinations thereof separating fire areas of mixed occupancies shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than the highest value indicated in Table 707.3.10 for the occupancies under consideration.

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    TABLE 707.3.10—FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATING REQUIREMENTS FOR
    FIRE BARRIERS, FIRE WALLS OR HORIZONTAL ASSEMBLIES BETWEEN FIRE AREAS    		 Col2
    OCCUPANCY GROUP FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING (hours)
    H-1, H-2 4
    F-1, H-3, S-1 3
    A, B, E, F-2, H-4, H-5, I,L, M, R, S-2 2
    U 1

    707.3.11 Horizontal separation offsets. The fire-resistance rating of a fire barrier serving as the vertical offset in a horizontal building separation shall comply with Section 510.2.

    707.4 Exterior walls. Where exterior walls serve as a part of a required fire-resistance-rated shaft, or separation or enclosure for a stairway, ramp or exit passageway, such walls shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls and the fire-resistance-rated enclosure or separation requirements shall not apply.

    Exceptions:

    1. Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1021 for exterior egress balconies, Section 1023.7 for interior exit stairways and ramps, Section 1024.8 for exit passageways and Section 1027.6 for exterior exit stairways and ramps.
    2. Exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 1207 of the California Fire Code for enclosure of energy storage systems.

    707.5 Continuity. Fire barriers shall extend from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, slab or deck above and shall be securely attached thereto. Such fire barriers shall be continuous through concealed space, such as the space above a suspended ceiling. Joints and voids at intersections shall comply with Sections 707.8 and 707.9

    Exceptions:

    1. Shaft enclosures shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section 713.12.
    2. Interior exit stairway and ramp enclosures required by Section 1023 and exit access stairway and ramp enclosures required by Section 1019 shall be permitted to terminate at a top enclosure complying with Section 713.12.
  • CBC § 907.2.23 Medium relevance — show source text

    Battery room 907.2.23 Construction documents 907.1.1 Covered and open mall building 402.7, 907.2.21 Education 907.2.3 Emergency alarm system 908 Factory 907.2.4 Group H 907.2.5 Group I 907.2.6, 907.5.2.3.2 Group M 907.2.6.3.4 Group R 420.5, 907.2.8, 907.2.9, 907.2.11, 907.2.12, 907.5.2.3.2,

    907.5.2.3.3

    High-rise 403.4.1, 403.4.2, 907.2.14 Live/work 508.5.7 Lumber mills 907.2.18

    Occupancy requirements 907.2 Play structure 424.3 Special amusement buildings 411.2, 411.3.3, 907.2.13

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    INDEX

    Underground buildings 405.6, 907.2.19, 907.2.20 Visible alarm 907.5.2.3, 1009.12 Fire Alarm Box, Manual 907.4.2 Fire Area 901.7 Ambulatory care facilities 903.2.2.1, 907.2.2 Assembly 903.2.1 Education 903.2.3 Enclosed parking garages 903.2.10 Factory 903.2.4 Institutional 903.2.6

    Mercantile 903.2.7

    Residential 903.2.8

    Storage 903.2.9, 903.2.10 Fire Barriers 707

    Continuity 707.5, 713.5 Exterior walls Table 705.5, 707.4,

    713.6 Fire-resistance rating of walls 603.1, 703, 707.3, 713.4 Glazing, rated 716.3.4 Incidental 509.4.1

    Inspection 110.3.8 Joints 707.8, 713.9, 715, 2508.5 Marking 703.5 Materials 707.2, 713.3 Opening protection 707.6, 707.10, 713.7, 713.10, 714.4, 716, 717.5.2 Penetrations 707.7, 713.8 Shaft enclosure 713.1

    Special provisions Aircraft hangars 412.3.4, 412.4.1 Atriums 404.3, 404.6 Covered and open mall buildings 402.4.2

    Fire pumps 403.3.4, 913.2.1 Flammable finishes 416.2

  • CBC § 714.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    714.3 Sleeves. Where sleeves are used, they shall be securely fastened to the assembly penetrated and installed in accordance with the sleeve manufacturer’s installation instructions. Where listed systems are used, the sleeve shall be installed in accordance with the listing criteria for the system. The space between the item contained in the sleeve and the sleeve itself and any space between the sleeve and the assembly penetrated shall be protected in accordance with this section. Insulation and coverings on or in the penetrating item shall not penetrate the assembly unless the specific material used has been tested as part of the assembly in accordance with this section.

    714.4 Fire-resistance-rated walls. Penetrations into or through fire walls, fire barriers, smoke barrier walls and fire partitions shall comply with Sections 714.4.1 through 714.4.3. Penetrations in smoke barrier walls shall also comply with Section 714.5.4.

    714.4.1 Through penetrations. Through penetrations of fire-resistance-rated walls shall comply with Section 714.4.1.1 or 714.4.1.2.

    Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular space between the penetrating item and the fire-resistance-rated wall is permitted to be protected by either of the following measures:

    1. In concrete or masonry walls where the penetrating item is a maximum 6-inch (152 mm) nominal diameter and the area of the opening through the wall does not exceed 144 square inches (0.0929 m [2] ), concrete, grout or mortar is permitted where installed the full thickness of the wall or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating.
    2. The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste when subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure

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    FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

    differential of 0.01 inch of water (2.49 Pa) at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fireresistance rating of the construction penetrated.

    714.4.1.1 Fire-resistance-rated assemblies. Through penetrations shall be protected using systems installed as tested in the approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.

    714.4.1.2 Through-penetration firestop system. Through penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch of water (2.49 Pa) and shall have an F rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall penetrated.

    714.4.2 Membrane penetrations. Membrane penetrations shall comply with Section 714.4.1. Where walls or partitions are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.

    Exceptions: 1.

  • CBC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by 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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    7 FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides requirements to maintain the fire-resistance ratings of building elements and to limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the maintenance of and owner’s responsibility for construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers. The rest of the chapter deals with various aspects that also must be maintained to achieve overall fire resistance of the main fire- and smoke-resistive features. These include penetrations, joint protection, door and window openings, and duct and air transfer opening protection.

    SECTION 701—GENERAL

    701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the inspection and maintenance of the materials, systems and assemblies used for structural fire resistance, fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces and construction installed to resist the passage of smoke to safeguard against the spread of fire and smoke within a building and the spread of fire to or from buildings. New buildings shall comply with the California Building Code.

    701.2 Fire-resistance-rated construction. The fire-resistance rating of the following fire-resistance-rated construction shall be maintained:

    1. Structural members.

    2. Exterior walls.

    3. Fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions.

    4. Horizontal assemblies.

    5. Shaft enclosures.

    701.2.1 Hanging displays. The hanging and displaying of salable goods and other decorative materials from acoustical ceiling systems that are part of a fire-resistance-rated horizontal assembly shall be prohibited.

    701.3 Smoke barriers. The fire-resistance rating and smoke-resistant characteristics of smoke barriers shall be maintained.

    701.4 Smoke partitions. The smoke-resistant characteristics of smoke partitions shall be maintained.

    701.5 Maintaining protection. Materials, systems and devices used to repair or protect breaches and openings in fire-resistance-rated construction and construction installed to resist the passage of smoke shall be maintained in accordance with Sections 703 through 707.

    701.6 Owner’s responsibility. The owner shall maintain an inventory of all required fire-resistance-rated construction, construction installed to resist the passage of smoke and the construction included in Sections 703 through 707 and Sections 602.4.1 and 602.4.2 of the California Building Code . Such construction shall be visually inspected by the owner annually and properly repaired, restored or replaced where damaged, altered, breached or penetrated. Where concealed, such elements shall not be required to be visually inspected by the owner unless the concealed space is accessible by the removal or movement of a panel, access door, ceiling tile or similar movable entry to the space.

  • CBC § 709.3 Medium relevance — show source text

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    FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

    709.3 Fire-resistance rating. A 1-hour fire-resistance rating is required for smoke barriers.

    Exception: Smoke barriers constructed of minimum 0.10-inch-thick (2.5 mm) steel in Group I-3 buildings.

    709.4 Continuity. Smoke barriers shall form an effective membrane continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below to the underside of the floor or roof sheathing, deck or slab above, including continuity through concealed spaces, such as those found above suspended ceilings, and interstitial structural and mechanical spaces. The supporting construction shall be protected to afford the required fire-resistance rating of the wall or floor supported in buildings of other than Type IIB, IIIB or VB construction. Smoke-barrier walls used to separate smoke compartments shall comply with Section 709.4.1. Smoke-barrier walls used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4 or to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.6.2 shall comply with Section 709.4.2.

    Exception: Smoke-barrier walls are not required in interstitial spaces where such spaces are designed and constructed with ceilings or exterior walls that provide resistance to the passage of fire and smoke equivalent to that provided by the smoke-barrier walls.

    709.4.1 Smoke-barrier assemblies separating smoke compartments. Smoke-barrier assemblies used to separate smoke compartments shall form an effective membrane enclosure that is continuous from an outside wall or smoke barrier wall to an outside wall or another smoke barrier wall and to the horizontal assemblies.

    709.4.2 Smoke-barrier walls enclosing areas of refuge or elevator lobbies. Smoke-barrier walls used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4, or to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.6.2, shall form an effective membrane enclosure that terminates at a fire barrier wall having a fire resistance rating not less than 1 hour, another smoke barrier wall or an outside wall. A smoke and draft control door assembly as specified in Section 716.2.2.1.1 shall not be required at each elevator hoistway door where protected by an elevator lobby, at each exit door opening into a protected lobby or at each exit doorway between an area of refuge and the exit enclosure.

    709.5 Openings. Openings in a smoke barrier shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

    Exceptions:

    1. In Group I- 2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed across a corridor in accordance with Section 709.5.1, the doors shall not be required to be protected in accordance with Section 716. The doors shall be close fitting within operational tolerances, and shall not have a center mullion or undercuts in excess of [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm), louvers or grilles. The doors shall have head and jamb stops, and astragals or rabbets at meeting edges. Positive latching devices are not required. Factory-applied or field-applied protective plates are not required to be labeled. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.
  • CBC § 1305.2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Category c—Fire partitions with 1-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 708 of the International Building Code and floor assemblies with 1-hour but less than 2-hour fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the International Building Code or with only one tenant within the floor

    area.

    1. Category d—Fire barriers with 1-hour but less than 2-hour fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the International Building Code and floor assemblies with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the International Building Code .

    2. Category e—Fire barriers and floor assemblies with 2-hour or greater fire-resistance ratings and constructed in accordance with Sections 707 and 711 of the International Building Code, respectively.

    1305.2.5 Corridor walls. Evaluate the fire-resistance rating and degree of completeness of walls which create corridors serving the floor and that are constructed in accordance with Section 1020 of the International Building Code . This evaluation shall not include the wall elements considered under Sections 1305.2.3 and 1305.2.4. Under the categories and groups in Table 1305.2.5, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1306.1 under Safety Parameter 1305.2.5, Corridor Walls, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.

    13-6 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS

    TABLE 1305.2.5—CORRIDOR WALL VALUES Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    OCCUPANCY CATEGORIES CATEGORIES CATEGORIES CATEGORIES
    OCCUPANCY a b ca da
    A-1 -10 -4 0 2
    A-2 -30 -12 0 2
    A-3, F, M, R, S-1 -7 -3 0 2
    A-4, B, E, S-2 -5 -2 0 5
    I-2 -10 0 1 2
    a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b. a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b. a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b. a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b. a. Corridors not providing at least one-half the exit access travel distance for all occupants on a floor shall use Category b.

    1305.2.5.1 Categories. The categories for corridor walls are:

    1. Category a—No fire partitions; incomplete fire partitions; no doors; or doors not self-closing.

    2. Category b—Less than 1-hour fire-resistance rating or not constructed in accordance with Section 708.4 of the Inter- national Building Code .

  • CBC § 7-3 Medium relevance — show source text

    702 Multiple-Use Fire Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

    703 Fire-Resistance Ratings and Fire Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

    704 Fire-Resistance Rating of Structural Members . . . . . 7-4

    705 Exterior Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6

    706 Fire Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12

    707 Fire Barriers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14

    708 Fire Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16

    709 Smoke Barriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-17

    710 Smoke Partitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-18

    711 Floor and Roof Assemblies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19

    712 Vertical Openings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-20

    713 Shaft Enclosures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21

    714 Penetrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23

    715 Joints and Voids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26

    716 Opening Protectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27

    717 Ducts and Air Transfer Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34

    718 Concealed Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40

    719 Fire-Resistance Requirements for Plaster . . . . . . . . 7-42

    720 Thermal- and Sound-Insulating Materials . . . . . . . . 7-42

    721 Prescriptive Fire Resistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-43

    722 Calculated Fire Resistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-66

    CHAPTER 7A [SFM] MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION

    METHODS FOR EXTERIOR WILDFIRE EXPOSURE . . . . . . . 7A-1

  • CBC § 415.12 Medium relevance — show source text

    415.12 Group H occupancies located on the 11th story and above.

    415.12.1 Fire – smoke barrier. Any story containing a Group H occupancy on the 11th story and above shall be subdivided by a fire- smoke barrier constructed as a fire barrier having a fire resistance rating of not less than 2 hours and shall also comply with the smoke barrier requirements of Section 710. The 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be in accordance with Sections 415.12.1.1 through 415.12.1.5.

    415.12.1.1 The 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall.

    415.12.1.2 The fire-smoke barrier shall divide the story so that the square footage on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier is not less than 30 percent of the total floor area.

    415.12.1.3 A minimum of one door opening shall be provided in the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier for emergency access.

    415.12.1.4 Each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be designed as a separate smoke zone designed in accordance with Section 909.5.

    415.12.1.5 The area on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier shall be served by a minimum of one exit enclosure in accor- dance with Section 1022.

    415.13 Elevators and elevator lobbies on the 11th story and above. Any story containing a Group H occupancy on the 11th story and above shall be provided with elevators and elevator lobbies in accordance with Sections 415.13.1 through 415.13.3.

    415.13.1 An elevator that serves every story of the building shall be provided on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier.

    415.13.2 An elevator lobby shall be provided on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier at each floor in accordance with Section 708.4. Exceptions to 708.4 shall not apply.

    415.13.3 The elevator and its associated elevator lobbies and elevator machine rooms shall be pressurized in accordance with Section 909.5.

    SECTION 416—SPRAY APPLICATION OF FLAMMABLE FINISHES

    [F] 416.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to the construction, installation and use of buildings and structures, or parts thereof, for the spray application of flammable finishes. Operations and equipment shall comply with the California Fire Code .

    [F] 416.2 Spray rooms. Spray rooms shall be enclosed with not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Floors shall be waterproofed and drained in an approved manner.

    [F] 416.2.1 Construction. Walls and ceilings of spray rooms shall be constructed of noncombustible materials or the interior surface shall be completely covered with noncombustible materials. Aluminum shall not be used.

    [F] 416.2.2 Surfaces. The interior surfaces of spray rooms shall be smooth and shall be so constructed to permit the free passage of exhaust air from all parts of the interior and to facilitate washing and cleaning, and shall be so designed to confine residues within the room.

Frequently asked questions

What is the single fastest check to know what rating a fire barrier needs?

Look up the occupancy (or occupancies) being separated and consult Table 707.3.10 — use the highest required rating if occupancies are mixed (§ 707.3.10).

Can an exterior wall count as the fire barrier without doing anything special?

Only if the exterior wall complies with the exterior wall rules in § 705; when an exterior wall is used as part of a required enclosure the fire‑resistance enclosure rules in § 707 do not apply to that exterior wall — see § 707.4 and its exceptions.

If a conduit penetrates a 2‑hour fire barrier, do I need a 2‑hour firestop?

Yes — through‑penetration firestop systems must have an F‑rating not less than the required rating of the wall (or the penetration must be part of the tested assembly); use a listed system tested per ASTM E814 / UL 1479 installed per its listing. (§ 714.4.1.2)

Are there circumstances where the fire barrier can terminate below the roof deck?

Yes — certain shaft and exit enclosures are permitted to terminate at an approved top enclosure per the exceptions in § 707.5 (for example, shaft enclosures and interior exit stair enclosures per their related sections).

Where do I find the installation instructions I must follow for a penetration firestop?

Use the manufacturer’s listed installation instructions and the listing criteria of the tested/listed system; § 714.2 requires installation in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation and listing.

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