CBC · California Building Code
When a technical report or HMMP is required for hazardous material operations
If your building stores, uses, dispenses or processes hazardous materials you must submit a written report to the building official showing the maximum quantities (stored, used in open or closed systems), the hazard classes, and how you will protect the building (control areas, fire protection, Group H measures). Laboratories (Group L) may also be required to provide a technical opinion that can include a Hazardous Materials Management Plan prepared by an approved qualified person; the Fire Code supplies HMMP forms and short‑form quantity thresholds.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
When a building or portion of a building is used for the manufacture, processing, dispensing, storage or use of hazardous materials, the California Building Code (CBC) requires a written report to be submitted to the building official that identifies the maximum expected quantities (open and closed systems), the hazardous-class breakdown, and the proposed methods of protection (control areas, fire‑protection systems, Group H designations, etc.) — see § 414.1.3. For Group L (laboratory) occupancies the enforcing agency may also require a technical opinion/report prepared by a qualified, approved person; that report can include (and commonly does include) an HMMP as part of the deliverable — see § 453.1.1 and § 453.3.
Requirements in detail
Rule summary by controlling sections
CBC § 414.1.3: A report must be submitted to the building official identifying maximum expected quantities (stored, used in closed systems, used in open systems), subdivided by hazardous‑material classification, and indicating methods of protection (control areas, fire protection, Group H, etc.). The report must be prepared by a qualified person approved by the building official and provided without charge. For Group H occupancies, separate floor plans showing locations of contents/processes are required.
CBC § 453.1.1: For Group L laboratory suites the enforcing agency may require a technical opinion and report to identify and develop methods of protection; the report may include an HMMP, chemical analysis, engineering controls, and limitations or conditions of use. The preparer must be qualified and approved and the report provided without charge. § 453.3 provides the laboratory‑suite context and size/tenant rules that often influence whether the agency exercises that authority.
Where the fire code applies (the California Fire Code contains detailed HMMP/HMIS content and thresholds), the fire code official may require submission of an HMMP and/or HMIS; Appendix H to the Fire Code describes HMMP content and short‑form thresholds (minimal storage site criteria). (The Fire Code is the usual source for HMMP form/content; see the related provisions below.)
Decision table — when a report or HMMP is required
| Decision dimension | Typical values / trigger | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Is the building used for manufacture/processing/dispensing/use/storage of hazardous materials? | Yes → CBC requires a report to the building official (identify max quantities, protection methods). | § 414.1.3 |
| Group L (laboratory) occupancy | Enforcing agency may require a technical opinion/report; report may include HMMP and engineering controls. | § 453.1.1 |
| Who must prepare the report | A qualified person/firm/corporation approved by the building official/enforcing agency; provided without charge. | § 414.1.3 and § 453.1.1 |
| Group H (hazardous) spaces within the building | Separate floor plans showing anticipated contents/processes are required in addition to the report. | § 414.1.3 |
| HMMP short‑form (minimal storage) thresholds (Fire Code guidance) | Solids ≤ 500 lb, Liquids ≤ 55 gal, Gases ≤ 200 cu ft at NTP → short HMMP form may be allowed; above these quantities expect full HMMP. | Appendix H (Fire Code) H3.3 |
| Where to find HMMP content / HMIS requirements | Fire Code § 5001.5.1 / Appendix H specify HMMP contents, HMIS data elements, and record‑keeping. | CFC § 5001.5.1 and Appendix H |
What the reports commonly must contain (as allowed/expected by the CBC)
- Maximum expected aggregate quantities for storage, open use and closed systems, broken out by hazardous‑material classification (per Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2)). § 414.1.3 requires those quantities be identified to the building official.
- Methods of protection: identification of control areas, fire‑protection systems, and any Group H occupancy designations that will be used to control risk. § 414.1.3 expects these methods to be shown in the report and on construction documents.
- For Group L, the enforcing agency can require additional technical analysis, chemical analysis, HMMP preparation, engineering‑control recommendations, and stated limitations/conditions of use. § 453.1.1 describes the scope of what may be required.
Note: I was not able to retrieve the full text of CBC Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2) from the supplied files; those tables define classification categories that § 414.1.3 requires you to use. Consult the CBC Table 307.1(1)/(2) in your code book or local plan check guidance.
Exceptions & special cases
- Exempt occupancies listed in CBC Table 307.1.1 are not required to comply with Section 414 (i.e., certain low‑hazard uses are exempt). § 414.1 (and its exception referencing Table 307.1.1) controls that exemption.
- The Group L provisions in Section 453 are described as optional and may be adopted/applied by jurisdictions; § 453.1 states the section's provisions are optional and may apply to buildings or structures. In practice the enforcing agency decides whether to apply § 453 detail.
- The Fire Code (not the CBC) contains explicit HMMP/HMIS submission thresholds, short‑form options and the HMMP content checklist; when the Fire Code requires an HMMP it will specify the content and whether short form is allowed. If your jurisdiction enforces the Fire Code, use CFC Appendix H as the HMMP template.
Common mistakes
- Treating CBC § 414.1.3 as optional: CBC requires the report to the building official where hazardous materials are present; it is not discretionary on the owner's side. The enforcing official, however, enforces and may require additional analysis under § 453.1.1 for labs.
- Submitting an HMMP to the building official without confirming whether the fire code official also requires an HMIS/HMMP form or a different format (the Fire Code prescribes HMMP/HMIS elements and recordkeeping). Check both building‑department and fire‑department requirements.
- Using an unqualified preparer or failing to get the preparer approved: both § 414.1.3 and § 453.1.1 require the report be prepared by a qualified person/firm/corporation approved by the building official or enforcing agency.
- Omitting subdivision of quantities by the CBC hazard classes (Tables 307.1(1)/(2)): § 414.1.3 requires subdivision by those categories; omission will trigger plan‑check questions. (I could not retrieve those tables from the uploaded files—see note above.)
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A university tenant intends to convert a 3,200 ft² laboratory suite into a research lab (Group L) that will store 120 gallons of a Class II combustible solvent in closed drums, use 30 gallons in open lab processes at any one time, and keep three compressed gas cylinders (aggregate 300 cu ft at NTP). The lab will also perform experiments that use small amounts of reactive chemicals.
Step-by-step application of the CBC rules:
Does § 414.1.3 require a report? Yes — the building contains hazardous materials in storage and use for manufacturing/processing; the owner must submit a report to the building official identifying maximum expected quantities (stored, open and closed use), broken out by hazard class, and indicate methods of protection (control areas, sprinkler/other systems, Group H designations if applicable). § 414.1.3 requires the report by a qualified person approved by the building official.
Is a separate technical opinion/report likely under § 453.1.1? Because this is a Group L laboratory suite, the enforcing agency may require a technical opinion/report; expect the authority to request additional engineering control recommendations, an HMMP, and chemical analysis for the reactive chemistries in experiments. § 453.1.1 authorizes the enforcing agency to require that analysis and to approve the preparer.
Does the Fire Code HMMP short‑form apply? The 120 gal liquid stored plus 30 gal in use means the facility exceeds the short‑form liquid threshold (55 gal in Appendix H3.3), so the fire code would not accept the minimal‑storage short HMMP; a full HMMP and HMIS are likely required by the fire code official. See CFC Appendix H3.3 for the short‑form thresholds and CFC § 5001.5.1 for HMMP requirements.
Conclusion for scenario: Submit the CBC § 414.1.3 report to the building official (quantities by hazard class, protection methods, floor plan if Group H elements arise). Expect the enforcing agency to require a technical report/HMMP per § 453.1.1. Prepare the full HMMP and HMIS per Fire Code requirements because the liquid quantities exceed the short‑form threshold.
Related provisions
- § 414.1.1 — Other provisions and interaction with Section 415 and the California Fire Code (how Group H interacts with CBC/Fire Code).
- § 414.2 — Control areas (construction and allowable quantities per control area referenced by § 414.1.3).
- § 453.1 — Scope for Group L (optional application and relationship to Group B laboratories). § 453.1 explains when the Group L rules apply.
- § 453.4 — Construction and separation requirements for laboratory suites (impacts design when hazardous materials trigger special construction). § 453.4 contains fire‑resistance separation requirements for lab suites.
- California Fire Code § 5001.5.1 and Appendix H — HMMP/HMIS content and thresholds (used by the fire code official when an HMMP/HMIS is required). Note: these are Fire Code provisions that commonly implement the HMMP/HMIS expectations referenced by the CBC.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 452.1.5 High relevance — show source text
_ The egress system shall comply with the requirements of Section 709 for smoke barriers. 3.6. The building is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system throughout.
452.1.5 Special hazards. School classrooms constructed after January 1, 1990, not equipped with automatic sprinkler systems, which have metal grilles or bars on all their windows and do not have at least two exit doors within 3 feet (914 mm) of each end of the classroom opening to the exterior of the building or to a common hallway used for evacuation purposes, shall have an inside release for the grilles or bars on at least one window farthest from the exit doors. The window or windows with the inside release shall be clearly marked as emergency exits.
452.1.6 Class I, II or III-A flammable liquids shall not be placed, stored or used in Group E occupancies, except in approved quantities as necessary in laboratories and classrooms and for operation and maintenance as set forth in the California Fire Code.
SECTION 453—GROUP L [SFM]
453.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings or structures, or portions thereof, containing one or more Group L laboratory suites as defined in Section 202.
The provisions of this section are optional and may apply to buildings or structures. See Section 304 for Group B Laboratories.
453.1.1 Technical report. The enforcing agency may require a technical opinion and report to identify and develop methods of protection from the hazards presented by the hazardous materials. A qualified person, firm or corporation, approved by the enforcing agency, shall prepare the opinion and report, and shall be provided without charge to the enforcing agency. The opinion and report may include, but is not limited to, the preparation of a hazardous material management plan (HMMP); chemical analysis; recommen- dations for methods of isolation, separation, containment or protection of hazardous materials or processes, including appropriate engineering controls to be applied; the extent of changes in the hazardous behavior to be anticipated under conditions of exposure to fire or from hazard control procedures; and the limitations or conditions of use necessary to achieve and maintain control of the
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SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
hazardous materials or operations. The report shall be entered into the files of the code enforcement agencies. Proprietary and trade secret information shall be protected under the laws of the state or jurisdiction having authority.
453.2 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
LABORATORY SUITE.
[F] LIQUID TIGHT FLOOR.
453.3 Laboratory suite requirements. 453.3.1 The gross floor area of an individual laboratory suite shall not exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ).
453.3.2 An individual laboratory suite shall not serve more than a single tenant.
Exception: An individual laboratory suite shall have a responsible party or department for all hazardous materials within a suite.
453.4 Construction.
453.4.1 Separation of laboratory suites.
CBC § 92.9 High relevance — show source text
3.2. The entire story in which the day-care facility is located is equipped with an approved manual fire alarm and automatic smoke-detection system. Actuation of an initiating device shall sound an audible alarm throughout the entire story. When a building fire alarm system is required by other provisions of this code, the alarm system shall be interconnected and sound the day-care fire alarm system; and 3.3. The day-care facility, if more than 1,000 square feet (92.9 m [2] ) in area, is divided into at least two compartments of approximately the same size by a smoke barrier in accordance with Section 709. In addition to the requirements of Section 508, occupancy separations between day-care and other occupancies shall be constructed as smoke barri- ers. Door openings in the smoke barrier shall be tight fitting, with gaskets installed as required by Section 716.5.3.1 and shall be automatic closing by actuation of the fire sprinklers, fire alarm or smoke detection system; and 3.4. Each compartment formed by the smoke barrier has not less than two exits or exit-access doors, one of which is permitted to pass through the adjoining compartment, and 3.5. At least one exit or exit-access door from the day-care facility shall be into a separate means of egress with not less than two paths of exit travel, which are separated in such a manner to provide an atmospheric separation. The egress system shall comply with the requirements of Section 709 for smoke barriers. 3.6. The building is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system throughout.
452.1.5 Special hazards. School classrooms constructed after January 1, 1990, not equipped with automatic sprinkler systems, which have metal grilles or bars on all their windows and do not have at least two exit doors within 3 feet (914 mm) of each end of the classroom opening to the exterior of the building or to a common hallway used for evacuation purposes, shall have an inside release for the grilles or bars on at least one window farthest from the exit doors. The window or windows with the inside release shall be clearly marked as emergency exits.
452.1.6 Class I, II or III-A flammable liquids shall not be placed, stored or used in Group E occupancies, except in approved quantities as necessary in laboratories and classrooms and for operation and maintenance as set forth in the California Fire Code.
SECTION 453—GROUP L [SFM]
453.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings or structures, or portions thereof, containing one or more Group L laboratory suites as defined in Section 202.
The provisions of this section are optional and may apply to buildings or structures. See Section 304 for Group B Laboratories.
453.1.1 Technical report. The enforcing agency may require a technical opinion and report to identify and develop methods of protection from the hazards presented by the hazardous materials. A qualified person, firm or corporation, approved by the enforcing _agency, shall prepare the opinion and report, and shall be provided without charge to the enforcing agency.
CBC § 4-67 Medium relevance — show source text
The opinion and report_ may include, but is not limited to, the preparation of a hazardous material management plan (HMMP); chemical analysis; recommen- dations for methods of isolation, separation, containment or protection of hazardous materials or processes, including appropriate engineering controls to be applied; the extent of changes in the hazardous behavior to be anticipated under conditions of exposure to fire or from hazard control procedures; and the limitations or conditions of use necessary to achieve and maintain control of the
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SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
hazardous materials or operations. The report shall be entered into the files of the code enforcement agencies. Proprietary and trade secret information shall be protected under the laws of the state or jurisdiction having authority.
453.2 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
LABORATORY SUITE.
[F] LIQUID TIGHT FLOOR.
453.3 Laboratory suite requirements. 453.3.1 The gross floor area of an individual laboratory suite shall not exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ).
453.3.2 An individual laboratory suite shall not serve more than a single tenant.
Exception: An individual laboratory suite shall have a responsible party or department for all hazardous materials within a suite.
453.4 Construction.
453.4.1 Separation of laboratory suites.
453.4.1.1 Laboratory suites shall be separated from other occupancies in accordance with Table 508.4.
453.4.1.2 Laboratory suites shall be separated from other laboratory suites by a fire barrier having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1-hour.
453.4.1.3 Laboratory suites shall be separated from control areas by a minimum 2-hour fire-resistance rating in accordance with Sections 707 and 711.
Exception: Laboratory suites shall be separated from control areas by a minimum 1-hour fire-resistance rating on floor levels below the 4th story.
453.4.1.4 Horizontal separation. The floor construction of the laboratory suite and the construction supporting the floor of the laboratory suite shall have a minimum 2-hour fire-resistance rating in accordance with Section 711.
Exceptions: 1. The floor construction of the laboratory suite and the construction supporting the floor of the laboratory suite are allowed to be 1-hour fire-resistance rated in buildings of Type IIA, IIIA and VA construction. 2. When an individual laboratory suite occupies more than one story, the intermediate floors contained within the suite shall comply with the requirements of Table 601.
453.4.2 Reserved.
453.4.3 Fire barrier and fire-smoke barrier.
453.4.3.1 Fire barrier. A fire barrier having a fire resistance rating of not less than 2-hours shall divide any story containing more than one laboratory suite on the 4th story and above.
453.4.3.1.1 Fire barriers shall be continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall,
CBC § 103.1 Medium relevance — show source text
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
[A] 103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.
[A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the fire code official.
SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE FIRE CODE OFFICIAL
[A] 104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
[A] 104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the fire code official.
[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the fire code official is authorized to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a technical opinion and report.
[A] 104.2.2.1 Cost. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.
[A] 104.2.2.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the fire code official. The fire code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
[A] 104.2.2.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon to identify and propose necessary recommendations.
CBC § 5001.5.1 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.
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APPENDIX H-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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H HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT PLANS
AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY STATEMENTS (SEE SECTIONS 5001.5.1 AND 5001.5.2)
SECTION H1—SCOPE
H1.1 Scope. Hazardous materials inventory statements (HMIS) and hazardous materials management plans (HMMP) which are required by the fire chief, pursuant to Chapter 50, shall be provided for hazardous materials in accordance with Appendix H.
Exceptions: 1. Materials which have been satisfactorily demonstrated not to present a potential danger to public health, safety or welfare, based upon the quantity or condition of storage, when approved. 2. Chromium, copper, lead, nickel and silver need not be considered hazardous materials for the purposes of Appendix H unless they are stored in a friable, powdered or finely divided state.
Proprietary and trade secret information shall be protected under the laws of the state or jurisdiction having authority.
SECTION H2—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY STATEMENTS (HMIS)
H2.1 When Required. A separate HMIS shall be provided for each building, including its appurtenant structures, and each exterior facil- ity in which hazardous materials are stored.
The hazardous materials inventory statement shall list, by hazard class, all hazardous materials stored. The hazardous materials inventory statement shall include the following information for each hazardous material listed:
1. Hazard class.
2. Common or trade name.
3. Chemical name, major constituents and concentrations if a mixture. If a waste, the waste category. 4. Chemical Abstract Service number (CAS number) found in 29 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.). 5. Whether the material is pure or a mixture, and whether the material is a solid, liquid or gas. 6. Maximum aggregate quantity stored at any one time. 7. Storage conditions related to the storage type, temperature and pressure.
H2.2 Changes to HMIS. An amended HMIS shall be provided within 30 days of the storage of any hazardous materials which changes or adds a hazard class or which is sufficient in quantity to cause an increase in the quantity which exceeds 5 percent for any hazard class.
SECTION H3—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT PLAN (HMMP)
H3.1 General. Applications for a permit to store hazardous materials shall include an HMMP standard form or short form in accordance with Section H3.3 and shall provide a narrative description of the operations and processes taking place at the facility. See Figure A-H-1.
CBC § 2506.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Vertical and horizontal assemblies
2504
Wallboard Table 2506.2, 2508.2, 2508.2.1, 2508.4, 2510.5.2.1 Water-resistant backing board 2506.2, 2509.2
Habitable Space 1208 Handrails 1014 Alternating tread devices 1011.14 Assembly aisles 1030.16 Construction 1014.5, 1014.6, 1014.7 Extensions 1014.7 Glazing 2407 Graspability 1014.4 Guards 1015.3 Height 1014.2 Loads 1607.9
Location 1014.1, 1014.8, 1014.9,
1014.10
Ramps 1012.8 Stairs 1011.11
Hardboard 1403.3.2, 2303.1.7 Hardware (see Doors and Locks and Latching) Hardwood
Fastening 2304.10 Quality 2303.3 Veneer 1403.3.2 Hazardous Materials 307, 414, 415 Compliance with California Fire Code 307.2
Control areas 414.2
Explosion control 414.5.1, Table 414.5.1, 415.11.6.5, 426.1.4 Mercantile occupancies 309.2 Reporting 414.1.3 Sprinkler protection Table 414.2.5.1, Table 414.2.5.2, 415.4, 415.11.12,
903.2.5
Ventilation 414.3, 415.9.1.7, 415.11.1.6, 415.11.1.8.1, 415.11.3.2, 415.11.6.8, 415.11.7.4, 415.11.8, 415.11.11, 1202.6 Weather protection 414.6.1 Hazardous Occupancy (Group H), (see Hazardous Materials) 307, 414, 415 Alarms and detection 415.11.2, 415.11.4, 415.11.6.9, 415.11.8, 415.3, 415.5, 907.2.5, 908.1, 908.2 Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Dispersing 414.5, 414.6, 415.6 Gas detection systems 415.11.7 Group provisions H-1 (detonation) 307.3, 415.6.2, 415.7, 415.6.4.1, 415.7.1 H-2 (deflagration) 307.4, 415.8, 415.9 H-3 (physical hazard) 415.10, 307.5, 415.8 H-4 (health hazard) 307.6, 415.10 H-5 (semiconductor) 307.7, 415.11 Height 415.7, 415.8.1, 415.9.1.1, 426.1.1, 503, 504, 505, 506 Incidental uses 509
CBC § 2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
H3.2.5 Chemical capability and separation. Information showing procedures, controls, signs or other methods used to ensure sepa- ration and protection of stored materials from factors which could cause accidental ignition or reaction of ignitable, reactive or incompatible materials in each area.
H3.2.6 Monitoring program. Information including, but not limited to, the location, type, manufacturer’s specifications, if applica- ble, and suitability of monitoring methods for each storage facility when required.
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APPENDIX H — HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT PLANS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY STATEMENTS (SEE SECTIONS 5001.5.1 AND 5001.5.2)
H3.2.7 Inspection and recording keeping. Schedules and procedures for inspecting safety and monitoring and emergency equip- ment. The permittee shall develop and follow a written inspection procedure acceptable to the chief for inspecting the facility for events or practices which could lead to unauthorized discharges of hazardous materials. Inspections shall be conducted at a frequency appropriate to detect problems prior to a discharge. An inspection check sheet shall be developed to be used in conjunction with routine inspections. The check sheet shall provide for the date, time and location of inspection; note problems and dates and times of corrective actions taken; and include the name of the inspector and the countersignature of the designated safety manager for the facility.
H3.2.8 Employee training. A training program appropriate to the types and quantities of materials stored or used shall be conducted to prepare employees to safely handle hazardous materials on a daily basis and during emergencies. The training program shall include: 1. Instruction in safe storage and handling of hazardous materials, including maintenance of monitoring records; 2. Instruction in emergency procedures for leaks, spills, fires or explosions, including shutdown of operations and evacuation procedures; and 3. Record-keeping procedures for documenting training given to employees.
H3.2.9 Emergency response. A description of facility emergency procedures is to be provided.
H3.3 HMMP Short Form—(Minimal Storage Site). A facility shall qualify as a minimal storage site if the quantity of each hazardous material stored in one or more facilities in an aggregate quantity for the facility is 500 pounds (227 kg) or less for solids, 55 gallons (208.2 L) or less for liquids, or 200 cubic feet (5.7 m [3] ) or less at NTP for compressed gases and does not exceed the threshold planning quantity as listed in 40 C.F.R., Part 355, Sections 302 and 304. The applicant for a permit for a facility which qualifies as a minimal storage site is _allowed to file the short form HMMP.
CBC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION H2—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY STATEMENTS (HMIS)
H2.1 When Required. A separate HMIS shall be provided for each building, including its appurtenant structures, and each exterior facil- ity in which hazardous materials are stored.
The hazardous materials inventory statement shall list, by hazard class, all hazardous materials stored. The hazardous materials inventory statement shall include the following information for each hazardous material listed:
1. Hazard class.
2. Common or trade name.
3. Chemical name, major constituents and concentrations if a mixture. If a waste, the waste category. 4. Chemical Abstract Service number (CAS number) found in 29 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.). 5. Whether the material is pure or a mixture, and whether the material is a solid, liquid or gas. 6. Maximum aggregate quantity stored at any one time. 7. Storage conditions related to the storage type, temperature and pressure.
H2.2 Changes to HMIS. An amended HMIS shall be provided within 30 days of the storage of any hazardous materials which changes or adds a hazard class or which is sufficient in quantity to cause an increase in the quantity which exceeds 5 percent for any hazard class.
SECTION H3—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT PLAN (HMMP)
H3.1 General. Applications for a permit to store hazardous materials shall include an HMMP standard form or short form in accordance with Section H3.3 and shall provide a narrative description of the operations and processes taking place at the facility. See Figure A-H-1.
H3.2 Information Required. The HMMP standard form shall include the information detailed in Section H3.2.
H3.2.1 General Information. General information, including business name and address, emergency contacts, business activity, business owner or operator, SIC code, number of employees and hours, Dunn and Bradstreet number, and signature of owner, opera- tor or designated representative.
H3.2.2 General site plan. A general site plan drawn at a legible scale which shall include, but not be limited to, the location of build- ings, exterior storage facilities, permanent access ways, evacuation routes, parking lots, internal roads, chemical loading areas, equipment cleaning areas, storm and sanitary sewer accesses, emergency equipment and adjacent property uses. The exterior stor- age areas shall be identified with the hazard class and the maximum quantities per hazard class of hazardous materials stored. When required by the chief, information regarding the location of wells, flood plains, earthquake faults, surface water bodies and general land uses within 1 mile (1.609 km) of the facility boundaries shall be included.
H3.2.3 Building floor plan. A building floor plan drawn to a legible scale which shall include, but not be limited to, hazardous mate- rials storage areas within the building and shall indicate rooms, doorways, corridors, means of egress and evacuation routes. Each hazardous materials storage facility shall be identified by a map key which lists the individual hazardous materials, their hazard class and quantity present for each area.
H3.2.4 Hazardous materials handling. Information showing that activities involving the handling of hazardous materials between the storage areas and manufacturing processes on site are conducted in a manner to prevent the accidental release of such materials.
CBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
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USEFUL TABLES
UNIT CONVERSIONS (continued)
MULTIPLY BY TO OBTAIN
Inches (in).....................................................................25.4 ............................Millimeters (mm)
Inches/hour ...................................................................25.4 ............................Millimeters/hour (mm/h)
Inches of mercury (0°C).........................................0.03342 ............................Atmosphere (standard) (atm)
Inches of mercury (0°C).............................................1.133 ............................Feet of water (4°C)
Inches mercury (0°C) ...............................................3.3863 ............................Kilopascals (kPa)
Inches of mercury (0°C)...........................................0.4912 ............................Pounds-force/square inch
Inches of water (4°C)............................................0.002458 ............................Atmosphere (standard) (atm)
Inches of water (4°C)..............................................0.07356 ............................Inches of mercury (0°C)
Inches of water (4°C)..................................................5.202 ............................Pounds-force/square feet
Inches of water (4°C)..............................................0.03613 ............................Pounds-force/square inch Joules (J)...........................................................9.480 x 10 [-4] ............................British thermal units (Btus)
Joules (J)...................................................................0.7376 ............................Foot-pounds Joules (J)...........................................................2.778 x 10 [-4] ............................Watt-hours
Kelvin (K).........................................................°K - 273.15 ............................Celsius (°C)
Kilograms (kg)..........................................................2.2046 ............................Pounds (lbs) Kilograms (kg) .................................................1.102 x 10 [-3] ............................Tons (short)
Kilopascals (kPa)..................................................0.145038 ............................Pounds-force/square inch
Kilometers (km)........................................................0.6214 ............................Miles (statute)
Kilometers/hour (km/h)............................................0.6214 ............................Miles/hour (mi/h)
Kilowatts (kW) .......................................................3412.14 ............................British thermal units/hour (Btus/hour)
Kilowatts (kW) ...........................................................1.341 ............................Horsepower (hp)
Kilowatt-hours.............................................................3413 ............................British thermal units (Btus) Kilowatt-hours.................................................2.655 x 10 [+6] ............................Foot-pounds (ft•lbs) Kilowatt-hours.....................................................3.6 x 10 [+6] ............................Joules (J)
Kip (1000 lbf).......................................................4.448222 ............................Kilonewtons (kN)
Kip-foot .1.35671 .Kilonewton meters (kN•m) Kips per square inch (kip/in [2] ).6.8947 .Megapascals (MPa) Lambert (la).3.183099 x 10 [3] .Candela per square meter (cd/m [2] ) Liters (L).0.03531 .Cubic feet (ft [3] ) Liters (L).61.02 .
CBC § 5001.3.3.15 Medium relevance — show source text
5001.3.3.15 Emergency plan. A written emergency plan shall be developed to ensure that proper actions are taken in the event of an emergency, and the plan shall be followed if an emergency condition occurs. The process of developing and updating the plan shall involve the participation of affected employees.
5001.3.3.16 Accident procedures. Written procedures for investigation and documentation of accidents shall be developed, and accidents shall be investigated and documented in accordance with these procedures.
5001.3.3.17 Consequence analysis. Where an accidental release of hazardous materials could endanger people or property, either on- or off-site, an analysis of the expected consequences of a plausible release shall be performed and utilized in the analysis and selection of active and passive hazard mitigation controls.
5001.3.3.18 Safety audits. Safety audits shall be conducted on a periodic basis to verify compliance with the requirements of this section.
5001.4 Retail and wholesale storage and display. For retail and wholesale storage and display of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials in Group M occupancies and storage in Group S occupancies, see Section 5003.11.
5001.5 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.5 and 105.6.
Where required by the fire code official, permittees shall apply for approval to permanently close a storage, use or handling facility. Such application shall be submitted not less than 30 days prior to the termination of the storage, use or handling of hazardous materials. The fire code official is authorized to require that the application be accompanied by an approved facility closure plan in accordance with Section 5001.6.3.
5001.5.1 Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) . Where required by the fire code official, an application for a permit shall include a Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP). The HMMP shall include a facility site plan designating the following:
Access to each storage and use area.
Location of emergency equipment.
Location where liaison will meet emergency responders.
Facility evacuation meeting point locations.
The general purpose of other areas within the building.
Location of all above-ground and underground tanks and their appurtenances including, but not limited to, sumps, vaults, below-grade treatment systems and piping.
The hazard classes in each area.
Locations of all control areas and Group H occupancies.
Emergency exits.
[For SFM] The HMMP shall comply with Health and Safety Code, Chapter 6.95, Sections 25500 through 25545, and Title 19, Division 2, Chapter 4.
5001.5.2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS). Where required by the fire code official, an application for a permit shall include an HMIS, such as Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA) Title III, Tier II Report or other approved statement. The HMIS shall include the following information:
Product name.
Component.
Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) number.
Location where stored or used.
Container size.
Hazard classification.
Amount in storage.
Amount in use-closed systems.
Amount in use-open systems.
[For SFM] The HMIS shall comply with Health and Safety Code, Chapter 6.95, Sections 25500 through 25545, and Title 19, Division 2, Chapter 4.
CBC § 1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
The applicant for a permit for a facility which qualifies as a minimal storage site is_ allowed to file the short form HMMP. Such plan shall include the following components: 1. General facility information, 2. A simple line drawing of the facility showing the location of storage facilities and indicating the hazard class or classes and physical state of the hazardous materials being stored, 3. Information describing that the hazardous materials will be stored and handled in a safe manner and will be appropriately contained, separated and monitored, and 4. Assurance that security precautions have been taken, employees have been appropriately trained to handle the hazardous materials and react to emergency situations, adequate labeling and warning signs are posted, adequate emergency equip- ment is maintained, and the disposal of hazardous materials will be in an appropriate manner.
SECTION H4 — MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS
H4.1 Hazardous materials inventory statements and hazardous materials management plans shall be maintained by the permittee for a period of not less than three years after submittal of updated or revised versions. Such records shall be made available to the fire chief upon request.
FIGURE A-H-1 — SAMPLE FORMAT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT PLAN (HMMP) INSTRUCTIONS
SECTION I—FACILITY DESCRIPTION
1.1 Part A
1. Fill out Items 1 through 11 and sign the declaration. 2. Only Part A of this section is required to be updated and submitted annually, or within 30 days of a change.
1. 2 Part B—General Facility Description (Site Plan) 1. Provide a site plan on 8 [1] / 2 -by 11-inch (215 mm by 279 mm) paper, using letters on the top and bottom margins and numbers on the right and left side margins, showing the location of all buildings, structures, chemical loading areas, parking lots, internal roads, storm and sanitary sewers, wells, and adjacent property uses. Indicate the approximate scale, northern direction and date the drawing was completed. 2 List all special land uses within 1 mile (1.609 km).
1.3 Part C—Facility Storage Map (Confidential Information) 1. Provide a floor plan of each building on 8 [1] / 2 by 11-inch (215 mm by 279 mm) paper, using letters on the top and bottom margins and numbers on the right and left side margins, with approximate scale and northern direction, showing the location of each storage area. Mark map clearly “Confidential—Do not disclose” for trade-secret information as specified by federal, state and local laws.
2. Identify each storage area with an identification number, letter, name or symbol. 3. Show the following: 3.1. Accesses to each storage area. 3.2. Location of emergency equipment. 3.3. The general purpose of other areas within the facility. 3.4. Location of all aboveground and underground tanks to include sumps, vaults, below-grade treatment systems, piping, etc.
APPENDIX H-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CBC § 2.8 Medium relevance — show source text
Inspections shall be conducted at a_ frequency appropriate to detect problems prior to a discharge. An inspection check sheet shall be developed to be used in conjunction with routine inspections. The check sheet shall provide for the date, time and location of inspection; note problems and dates and times of corrective actions taken; and include the name of the inspector and the countersignature of the designated safety manager for the facility.
H3.2.8 Employee training. A training program appropriate to the types and quantities of materials stored or used shall be conducted to prepare employees to safely handle hazardous materials on a daily basis and during emergencies. The training program shall include: 1. Instruction in safe storage and handling of hazardous materials, including maintenance of monitoring records; 2. Instruction in emergency procedures for leaks, spills, fires or explosions, including shutdown of operations and evacuation procedures; and 3. Record-keeping procedures for documenting training given to employees.
H3.2.9 Emergency response. A description of facility emergency procedures is to be provided.
H3.3 HMMP Short Form—(Minimal Storage Site). A facility shall qualify as a minimal storage site if the quantity of each hazardous material stored in one or more facilities in an aggregate quantity for the facility is 500 pounds (227 kg) or less for solids, 55 gallons (208.2 L) or less for liquids, or 200 cubic feet (5.7 m [3] ) or less at NTP for compressed gases and does not exceed the threshold planning quantity as listed in 40 C.F.R., Part 355, Sections 302 and 304. The applicant for a permit for a facility which qualifies as a minimal storage site is allowed to file the short form HMMP. Such plan shall include the following components: 1. General facility information, 2. A simple line drawing of the facility showing the location of storage facilities and indicating the hazard class or classes and physical state of the hazardous materials being stored, 3. Information describing that the hazardous materials will be stored and handled in a safe manner and will be appropriately contained, separated and monitored, and 4. Assurance that security precautions have been taken, employees have been appropriately trained to handle the hazardous materials and react to emergency situations, adequate labeling and warning signs are posted, adequate emergency equip- ment is maintained, and the disposal of hazardous materials will be in an appropriate manner.
SECTION H4 — MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS
H4.1 Hazardous materials inventory statements and hazardous materials management plans shall be maintained by the permittee for a period of not less than three years after submittal of updated or revised versions. Such records shall be made available to the fire chief upon request.
FIGURE A-H-1 — SAMPLE FORMAT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT PLAN (HMMP) INSTRUCTIONS
SECTION I—FACILITY DESCRIPTION
1.1 Part A
1. Fill out Items 1 through 11 and sign the declaration. 2. Only Part A of this section is required to be updated and submitted annually, or within 30 days of a change.
Frequently asked questions
When exactly do I need to file the CBC § 414.1.3 report?
File the report whenever the building or a portion of it is being used for manufacture, processing, dispensing, storage or use of hazardous materials — the report documents maximum expected quantities (stored, open, closed) and protection methods and must go to the building official. § 414.1.3 requires this.
Is an HMMP the same document as the § 414.1.3 technical report?
Not necessarily. § 414.1.3 requires a report to the building official describing quantities and protection methods; § 453.1.1 explicitly states the technical opinion/report may include an HMMP. The Fire Code (Appendix H) provides the HMMP form/content commonly used by fire officials. Expect overlap, but confirm format required by your building and fire departments.
Who can prepare the required report or HMMP?
The report must be prepared by a qualified person, firm or corporation approved by the building official or enforcing agency and provided without charge, as stated in § 414.1.3 and § 453.1.1. Get approval from the authority having jurisdiction before final submittal.
What are the short‑form HMMP quantity thresholds?
The Fire Code’s Appendix H defines minimal storage (short‑form) thresholds: solids ≤ 500 lb, liquids ≤ 55 gal, gases ≤ 200 cu ft at NTP. If your site exceeds those thresholds, expect to prepare a full HMMP.
If I have a small amount of a hazardous material, do I still need to report?
Some small‑quantity uses are exempt under CBC Table 307.1.1; otherwise § 414.1.3 requires reporting of maximum expected quantities and protection methods. Check Table 307.1.1 and consult your enforcing agency. (Table text was not in the supplied files.)
More in California Building Code
- Administration & Permits
- Energy Efficiency
- Existing Buildings
- Occupancy Classification & Use
- Hazardous Materials & Occupancies
- Types of Construction
- Fire-Resistance & Fire Safety
- Interior Finishes
- Means of Egress
- Accessibility
- Exterior Walls
- Roofing & Roof Assemblies
- Structural Design
- Special Inspections & Tests
- Foundations & Soils
- Concrete
- Masonry
- Steel
- Wood
- Elevators & Conveying Systems
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