CBC · California Building Code
Where the CBC defers to the California Fire Code and other standards
The CBC sets construction and occupancy rules for hazardous materials (control areas, separations, and some construction limits) but intentionally defers detailed storage, handling, operational, and many fire‑protection specifications to the California Fire Code and referenced standards — see CBC §§ 414.1.2 and 415.2 and consult the CFC for material‑specific requirements.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires
The CBC expressly delegates material-specific design and many operational / hazard-control details for hazardous materials and High‑Hazard (Group H) occupancies to the California Fire Code (CFC) and to other referenced standards. The building‑code text makes this delegation explicit for hazardous‑materials design in § 414.1.2 and for Group H occupancies in § 415.2; the CBC also cross‑references Section 307 (Group H) throughout Chapter 3 and the hazardous materials tables (see index entry calling out CFC compliance at 307.2).
Requirements in detail
Scope of the deferral (what the CBC sends to the CFC and other standards)
- Material‑dependent design: The CBC states that "the safe design of hazardous material occupancies is material dependent" and that the individual material requirements are found in Sections 307 and 415, the California Mechanical Code and the California Fire Code — i.e., designers must consult those documents for the detailed requirements for a given hazardous material (see § 414.1.2).
- Group H compliance: Buildings (or portions) classified as Group H must comply with the applicable provisions of CBC Section 414 and the California Fire Code; CBC Section 415 reiterates that Group H occupancies are governed by both CBC construction rules and the CFC requirements for storage, handling, operational controls and many fire‑protection specifics (see § 415.2).
- Index and tables: the CBC index and topic tables call out "Compliance with California Fire Code" alongside Section 307 references (index entry for 307.2), showing the intent to offload many hazardous‑materials operational and administrative items to the CFC.
Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference table)
| Decision question | Typical values / rule | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Where to find material‑specific storage/handling rules | Consult CFC (and Section 307/415) for the specific material (e.g., aerosols, flammables, corrosives) | § 414.1.2 |
| Requirement for Group H occupancies to meet CFC provisions | Group H buildings must comply with applicable Section 414 and the California Fire Code | § 415.2 |
| Outdoor weather‑protected storage overhead structure maximum area | Overhead structure must be noncombustible; max area 1,500 sq ft (exceptions where other provisions apply) | § 414.6.1.3 |
| Where to find control‑area limits and MAQs | Control area MAQs are set by CBC tables (e.g., Table 307.1(1)/(2)) and the CFC for operational limits | Tables 307.1(1), 307.1(2) and § 414.2 (control areas) |
| Reporting and documentation required to the building official | Submit a hazardous‑materials report showing maximum expected quantities and protection methods; separate plans for Group H | § 414.1.3 |
How the deferral works in practice
- CBC establishes construction‑level requirements (fire barriers, control areas, openings, basic separations) in Chapter 4 (Sections 414/415).
- For the details tied to a specific chemical or process (how to store aerosols, venting rates, labeling, operations/permitting, maintenance, inspections, required fire‑protection equipment types and performance, operational controls), the CBC points the user to the California Fire Code and other referenced standards (CMC, referenced NFPA standards, etc.).
Exceptions & special cases
- Exempt quantities: the CBC notes exemptions listed in Table 307.1.1; materials below those exempt quantities are not required to comply with Section 414. The CBC references those tables and exemption thresholds; the detailed exemptions are in the referenced tables (see § 414.1 and Table 307.1.1).
- Areas protected by sprinklers: some fire‑resistance or opening‑protective requirements are waived where automatic sprinklers are approved and installed — consult the specific CBC exceptions and the CFC sprinkler criteria (see the CBC exception language in Chapter 4 / Sections 413 and 414).
- Weather‑protected outdoor storage: treated as "outdoor" if the weather‑protection structure meets the CBC tests; the CBC sets construction and separation rules for such shelters (see § 414.6 and subsections).
Common mistakes
- Treating the CBC as a complete source for hazardous‑materials operational controls. The CBC provides the construction/occupancy classification, control‑area limits and some construction details, but operational, maintenance, permitting and many storage specifics are in the CFC and referenced standards — follow both codes. See §§ 414.1.2 and 415.2.
- Omitting the hazardous‑materials report: designers sometimes forget § 414.1.3’s requirement to submit a report identifying maximum expected quantities and protection methods; this is required for plan review and enforcement.
- Using CBC MAQ tables without checking the corresponding CFC operational limits or local amendments: the CBC delegates many material‑specific controls to the CFC; local fire authorities may adopt amendments. See the index cross‑references and administrative sections on local amendments.
Worked example — small weather‑protected hazardous‑materials storage shelter
Scenario: A small business plans a covered, weather‑protected outdoor shelter to store non‑bulk containers of cleaning solvent. The shelter will have an overhead canopy and partial sidewalls; the overhead footprint is 1,200 sq ft.
Step 1 — Classification and CBC triggers
- The designer checks whether the material and quantity exceed the Table 307.1(1) / 307.1(2) MAQs that trigger control areas or Group H classification. If below the exemption thresholds in Table 307.1.1, Section 414 may not apply; if not, CBC hazardous‑materials rules apply. (See references to Tables 307.1(1)/(2) and Table 307.1.1.)
Step 2 — CBC construction limits for the weather‑protected shelter
- The overhead canopy is 1,200 sq ft, which is less than the 1,500 sq ft maximum the CBC lists for approved noncombustible overhead structures; the canopy must be of approved noncombustible construction unless another provision (e.g., Section 506) allows otherwise. That constraint appears in § 414.6.1.3. Because the canopy area is under 1,500 sq ft, this CBC construction limitation is satisfied.
Step 3 — Follow the CFC for storage and operational controls
- The CBC instructs the user to follow the California Fire Code for storage details of specific materials (aerosols are explicitly called out in § 414.1.2.1) and for many outdoor storage operational requirements. The designer must therefore consult the CFC chapters on hazardous materials for allowable container types, separation distances to lot lines/egress, ventilation, signage, and any required permitting or fire department notification.
Step 4 — Submit required documentation
- As part of plan submission, prepare the hazardous‑materials report per § 414.1.3 describing maximum expected quantities and the protection measures (control areas, fire protection systems). If the quantities or conditions trigger Group H requirements, the designer must follow § 415 and the CFC (automatic detection, sprinkler requirements, emergency alarms as applicable).
Result: The shelter passes the CBC construction threshold (1,200 < 1,500 sq ft), but full compliance requires applying the CFC storage/operational rules and submitting the CBC‑required hazardous‑materials report.
Related provisions
- § 414.1.2 — Materials and deferral to CFC and other standards (hazardous materials)
- § 414.1.3 — Hazardous‑materials information/reporting to the building official
- § 414.2 — Control areas; construction and percentages tied to tables in the CBC and the CFC
- § 414.6 / § 414.6.1.3 — Outdoor storage, weather protection, and the 1,500 sq ft noncombustible structure rule
- § 307.1 — High‑hazard Group H classification referencing CBC Sections 415 and the California Fire Code
- § 415.2 — Group H compliance with CBC Section 414 and the California Fire Code (automatic detection, sprinklers, alarms referenced elsewhere in 415)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 2506.2 High 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 § 1015.5 High relevance — show source text
Screen porches 1015.5 Stairs 1015.2
Vehicle barrier 406.4.2, 1607.11 Windows 1015.8
Gutters 1502.3 Gymnasiums 303.4 Group E 303.1.3 Live load Table 1607.1 Occupant load 1004.5 Gypsum Chapter 25 Board Chapter 25 Ceiling diaphragms 2508.6 Concrete, reinforced gypsum 2514 Construction 2508 Draftstopping 718.3.1 Exterior soffit Table 2506.2 Fastening Table 2306.3(3), 2508.1 Fire resistance 719, 722.2.1.4, 722.6.2 Fire-resistant joint treatment 2508.5 Inspection 2503 Lath 2507, 2510 Lathing and furring for cement plaster 719, 2510 Lathing and plastering 2507 Materials 2506
Panel products Chapter 25 Performance 2502 Plaster, exposed aggregate 2513 Plaster, exterior 2512 Plaster, interior 2511 Shear wall construction Table 2306.3(3), 2308.10.3, 2505 Sheathing Table 2308.9.9, Table 2508.1, 2508.2, 2508.5, 2510.5.2.2 Showers and water closets 2509
Stucco 2510
Veneer base 2507.2
Veneer plaster 2507.2, 2511.1, Table 2511.1.1
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
CBC § 903.2.5 High relevance — show source text
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
Interior finishes 416.2.1, 416.3.1, Table 803.13, 804 Live load Table 1607.1
Location on property 414.6.1.2, 415.6 Low hazard 306.3, 311.3 Means of egress Corridors 415.11.2 One means of egress Table 1006.3.4(1), Table 1006.3.4(2) Panic hardware 1006.2.2.2, 1006.2.2.3, 1006.2.2.4, 1010.2.8 Stairway, exit access 1019 Travel distance 1006.3, 1006.2.1, Table 1017.2
Mixed occupancies 508.3, 508.4 Accessory 508.2 Moderate hazard 306.2, 311.2 Multiple hazards 306.2, 311.2 Occupancy exceptions 307.1 Plumbing fixtures Chapter 29 Risk category Table 1604.5 Separation from other occupancies 415.6.1, 508.1, 508.2.4, 508.3.3, 508.4 Smoke and heat removal 910.2 Special provisions based on materials Combustible liquids Table 307.1(1), 307.4, 307.5, 414.2.5, 414.5.3,
415.9.2
Corrosives 307.6, Table 414.2.5.1, 414.3, 415.10.3, Table 415.11.1.1 Explosives 307.3, 307.3.1, Table 415.6.5
CFC § 1203 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 PARTS AND CHAPTERS SUBJECTS Part I—Chapters 1 and 2 Administrative and definitions Part II—Chapters 3 and 4 General safety provisions Part III—Chapters 5 through 12 Building and equipment design features Part III—Chapters 13 through 19 Reserved for future use Part IV—Chapters 20 through 41_; 48 and 49_ Special occupancies and operations Part IV—Chapters 42 through_47_ Reserved for future use Part V—Chapters 50, 51 and 53 through 67 Hazardous materials Part V—Chapters_ 52,_ 68 through 79 Reserved for future use Part VI—Chapter 80 Referenced standards Part VII—Appendices A through Q Adoptable and informational appendices 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE xiii
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California Building Code Correlated Topics
The CFC requirements for fire-resistance-rated construction, interior finish, fire protection systems, means of egress and construction safeguards are directly correlated to the chapters containing parallel requirements in the CBC as follows:
CFC/CBC CORRELATED TOPICS Col2 Col3 CFC CHAPTER/SECTION CBC CHAPTER/SECTION SUBJECT Chapter 7 Chapter 7 Fire and smoke protection features (Fire-resistance-rated construction in the CBC) Chapter 8 Chapter 8 Interior finish, decorative materials and furnishings Chapter 9 Chapter 9 Fire protection and life safety systems Chapter 10 Chapter 10 Means of egress Section 1203 Chapter 27 Emergency and standby power Chapter 31 Section 3103 Temporary structures Chapter 33 Chapter 33 Construction fire safety Chapters 50–67 Sections 307, 414, 415 Hazardous materials and Group H requirements 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
CBC § 101.2.2 High relevance — show source text
CFC—25: California Fire Code
101.2.2, 101.4.2, 301.3.1, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 802.2.1, 802.2.3, 803.2.3, 803.4.1.1, 803.4.1.2, 803.4.1.3, 803.4.1.4, 803.4.1.5, 803.4.1.6, Table 804.5.1.1(1), 904.1.5, 1011.6.1.1, 1303.1.2, 1305.2.8.1, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, 1401.2, 1501.1, 1501.5, 1502.1, 1502.1.1, 1502.2, 1502.3, 1504.1, 1507.1, 1507.2
CMC—25: California Mechanical Code
302.2, 702.7, 807.1, 902.1.1, 1008.1, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.8.1
CPC—25: California Plumbing Code
302.2, 408.1, 702.7, 1009.1, 1009.2, 1009.3, 1009.5, 1302.1.6, 1503.1
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REFERENCED STANDARDS
CRC—25: California Residential Code
101.2, 101.4.1, 104.3.1, 109.3.3, 109.3.10, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 401.3, 402.1, 405.2.6, 502.2, 502.3, 502.4, 503.2, 503.3, 503.11, 505.2, 505.3, 507.3, 701.3, 702.4, 702.5, 706.2, 708.1, 805.2, 806.4, 809.1, 906.2, 907.1, 1011.2.1, 1103.1, 1103.2, 1103.3, 1104.1, 1201.4, 1302.1.2, 1302.1.3, 1302.1.3, 1303.1.3, 1401.2, 1402.1, 1402.2, 1402.2.1, 1402.3, 1402.4, 1402.5, 1402.6
ICC 300—2023: ICC Standard on Bleachers, Folding and Telescopic Seating and Grandstands
301.1.1, 401.1.1, 1401.1.1
ICC A117.1—2017: Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities
CBC § 1.9.2.1.4 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A—Amendments appearing in these chapters without an acronym have been co-adopted by DSA-SS and OSHPD.
1.9.2.1.4 Reference to other chapters. Where reference is made within the California Building Standards Code (CBSC) to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22, the respective sections in Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A shall apply instead.
1.9.2.2 DSA-SS/CC Division of the State Architect- Structural Safety/Community Colleges
Application— Community Colleges. The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the authority by the Department of General Services to promulgate alternate building standards for application to community colleges, which a community college may elect to use in lieu of standards promulgated by DSA-SS in accordance with Section 1.9.2.1.
Enforcing agency— Division of the State Architect- Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC)
The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the authority by the Department of General Services to review and approve the design and oversee construction of community colleges electing to use the alternative building standards as provided in this section.
Authority cited— Education Code Section 81053.
Reference— Education Code Sections 81052, 81053 and 81130 through 81147.
1.9.2.2.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations: 1.1. Sections 4-301 through 4-355, Group 1, and Sections 4-401 through 4-435, Group 2, Chapter 4. 2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: 2.1. Sections 1.1 and 1.9.2 of Chapter 1, Division I. 2.2. Sections 102.1, 102.2, 102.3, 102.4, 102.5, 104.2.3, 104.9, 104.10, 106.1, 107.2.5, 110.3.5 and 110.3.7 of Chapter 1, Division II.
1.9.2.2.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11 and 12, Califor- nia Code of Regulations.
The Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety/Community Colleges [DSA-SS/CC] adopts the following building standards in Title 24, Part 2:
Chapters 2 through 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17A, 18A, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33 and 35.
CBC § 1.1.6 High relevance — show source text
1.1.6 Nonbuilding standards, orders and regulations. Requirements contained in the California Building Code, or in any other refer- enced standard, code or document, which are not building standards as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18909, shall not be construed as part of the provisions of this code. For nonbuilding standards, orders and regulations, see other titles of the California Code of Regulations.
1.1.7 Order of precedence and use.
1.1.7.1 Differences. In the event of any differences between these building standards and the standard reference documents, the text of these building standards shall govern.
1.1.7.2 Specific provisions. Where a specific provision varies from a general provision, the specific provision shall apply.
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ADMINISTRATION
1.1.7.3 Conflicts. When the requirements of this code conflict with the requirements of any other part of the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, the most restrictive requirements shall prevail.
1.1.7.3.1 Detached one- and two-family dwellings. Detached one- and two-family dwellings, lodging houses, live/work units, townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory struc- tures, may be designed and constructed in accordance with this code or the California Residential Code, but not both, unless the proposed structure(s) or element(s) exceed the design limitations established in the California Residential Code, and the code user is specifically directed by the California Residential Code to use this code.
1.1.8 City, county, or city and county amendments, additions or deletions. The provisions of this code do not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county governments to establish more restrictive and reasonably necessary differences to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to complying with Section 1.1.8.1. The effective date of amendments, additions or deletions to this code by a city, county, or city and county filed pursuant to Section 1.1.8.1 shall be the date filed. However, in no case shall the amendments, additions or deletions to this code be effective any sooner than the effective date of this code.
Local modifications shall comply with Health and Safety Code Section 18941.5 for Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17958 for State Housing Law or Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7 for Fire Protection Districts.
1.1.8.1 Findings and filings. 1. The city, county, or city and county shall make express findings for each amendment, addition or deletion based upon climatic, topographical or geological conditions. Exception: Hazardous building ordinances and programs mitigating unreinforced masonry buildings. 2. The city, county, or city and county shall file the amendments, additions or deletions expressly marked and identified as to the applicable findings. Cities, counties, cities and counties, and fire departments shall file the amendments, additions or deletions, and the findings with the California Building Standards Commission at 2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95833.
CBC § 414.6.1.3 High relevance — show source text
[F] 414.6.1.3 Noncombustible construction. The overhead structure shall be of approved noncombustible construction with a maximum area of 1,500 square feet (140 m [2] ).
Exception: The maximum area is permitted to be increased as provided by Section 506.
SECTION 415—GROUPS H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 AND H-5
[F] 415.1 General. Occupancies classified as Group H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5 in accordance with Section 307 shall comply with Sections 415.1 through 415.11.
[F] 415.2 Compliance. Buildings and structures with an occupancy in Group H shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 414 and the California Fire Code .
[F] 415.3 Automatic fire detection systems. Group H occupancies shall be provided with an automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.
[F] 415.4 Automatic sprinkler system. Group H occupancies shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.5.
[F] 415.5 Emergency alarms. Emergency alarms for the detection and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided as set forth herein.
[F] 415.5.1 Storage. An approved manual emergency alarm system shall be provided in buildings, rooms or areas used for storage of hazardous materials. Emergency alarm-initiating devices shall be installed outside of each interior exit or exit access door of storage buildings, rooms or areas. Activation of an emergency alarm-initiating device shall sound a local alarm to alert occupants of an emergency situation involving hazardous materials.
[F] 415.5.2 Dispensing, use and handling. Where hazardous materials having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 are transported through corridors, interior exit stairways or ramps, or exit passageways, there shall be an emergency telephone system, a local manual alarm station or an approved alarm-initiating device at not more than 150-foot (45 720 mm) intervals and at each exit and exit access doorway throughout the transport route. The signal shall be relayed to an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or constantly attended on-site location and shall initiate a local audible alarm.
[F] 415.5.3 Supervision. Emergency alarm systems required by Section 415.5.1 or 415.5.2 shall be electrically supervised and monitored by an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or shall initiate an audible and visual signal at a constantly attended on-site location.
[F] 415.5.4 Emergency alarm systems. Emergency alarm systems required by Section 415.5.1 or 415.5.2 shall be provided with emergency or standby power in accordance with Section 2702.2.
[F] 415.6 Fire separation distance. Group H occupancies shall be located on property in accordance with the other provisions of this chapter. In Groups H-2 and H-3, not less than 25 percent of the perimeter wall of the occupancy shall be an exterior wall.
CBC § 414.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Neither fire-resistance-rated construction nor opening protectives are required in any of the following locations:
- Areas protected by approved automatic sprinkler systems.
- Group R-3 and U occupancies.
SECTION 414—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
[F] 414.1 General. Buildings and structures occupied for the manufacturing, processing, dispensing, use or storage of hazardous materials shall comply with Sections 414.1 through 414.6.
Exception: Exemptions listed in Table 307.1.1 shall not be required to comply with Section 414.
[F] 414.1.1 Other provisions. Buildings and structures with an occupancy in Group H shall comply with this section and the applicable provisions of Section 415 and the California Fire Code. See Section 453 for Group L occupancies.
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SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
[F] 414.1.2 Materials. The safe design of hazardous material occupancies is material dependent. Individual material requirements are found in Sections 307 and 415, the California Mechanical Cod e and the California Fire Code.
[F] 414.1.2.1 Aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products. Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products shall be stored and displayed in accordance with the California Fire Code . See Section 311.2 and the California Fire Code for occupancy group requirements.
[F] 414.1.3 Information required. A report shall be submitted to the building official identifying the maximum expected quantities of hazardous materials to be stored, used in a closed system and used in an open system, and subdivided to separately address hazardous material classification categories based on Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2). The methods of protection from such hazards, including but not limited to control areas, fire protection systems and Group H occupancies shall be indicated in the report and on the construction documents. The opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified person, firm or corporation approved by the building official and provided without charge to the enforcing agency.
For buildings and structures with an occupancy in Group H, separate floor plans shall be submitted identifying the locations of anticipated contents and processes so as to reflect the nature of each occupied portion of every building and structure.
[F] 414.2 Control areas. Control areas shall comply with Sections 414.2.1 through 414.2.5 and the California Fire Code .
[F] 414.2.1 Construction requirements. Control areas shall be separated from each other by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
[F] 414.2.2 Percentage of maximum allowable quantities. The percentage of maximum allowable quantities of hazardous materials per control area permitted at each floor level within a building shall be in accordance with Table 414.2.2.
CBC § 414.6 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 414.6 Outdoor storage, dispensing and use. The outdoor storage, dispensing and use of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code .
[F] 414.6.1 Weather protection. Where weather protection is provided for sheltering outdoor hazardous material storage or use areas, such areas shall be considered outdoor storage or use where the weather protection structure complies with Sections 414.6.1.1 through 414.6.1.3.
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SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
[F] 414.6.1.1 Walls. Walls shall not obstruct more than one side of the structure.
Exception: Walls shall be permitted to obstruct portions of multiple sides of the structure, provided that the obstructed area is not greater than 25 percent of the structure’s perimeter.
[F] 414.6.1.2 Separation distance. The distance from the structure to buildings, lot lines, public ways or means of egress to a public way shall be not less than the distance required for an outside hazardous material storage or use area without weather protection.
[F] 414.6.1.3 Noncombustible construction. The overhead structure shall be of approved noncombustible construction with a maximum area of 1,500 square feet (140 m [2] ).
Exception: The maximum area is permitted to be increased as provided by Section 506.
SECTION 415—GROUPS H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 AND H-5
[F] 415.1 General. Occupancies classified as Group H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5 in accordance with Section 307 shall comply with Sections 415.1 through 415.11.
[F] 415.2 Compliance. Buildings and structures with an occupancy in Group H shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 414 and the California Fire Code .
[F] 415.3 Automatic fire detection systems. Group H occupancies shall be provided with an automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.
[F] 415.4 Automatic sprinkler system. Group H occupancies shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.5.
[F] 415.5 Emergency alarms. Emergency alarms for the detection and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided as set forth herein.
[F] 415.5.1 Storage. An approved manual emergency alarm system shall be provided in buildings, rooms or areas used for storage of hazardous materials. Emergency alarm-initiating devices shall be installed outside of each interior exit or exit access door of storage buildings, rooms or areas. Activation of an emergency alarm-initiating device shall sound a local alarm to alert occupants of an emergency situation involving hazardous materials.
CBC § 3-6 Medium relevance — show source text
Furniture
Hemp products
Jute products
Laundries
Leather products
Lithium-ion batteries
Machinery
Metals
Millwork (sash and door)
[SFM] Motion picture and television production studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and production locations (with- out live audiences)
Motion pictures and television filming (without spectators)
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OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE
Musical instruments
Optical goods
Paper mills or products
Photographic film
Plastic products
Printing or publishing
Recreational vehicles
Refuse incineration
Shoes
Soaps and detergents
Textiles
Tobacco
Trailers
Upholstering
Vehicles powered by lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries
Water/sewer treatment facilities
Wood; distillation
Woodworking (cabinet)
306.2.1 Aircraft manufacturing facilities. Aircraft manufacturing facilities shall comply with Section 412.6.
306.3 Low-hazard factory industrial, Group F-2. Factory industrial uses that involve the fabrication or manufacturing of noncombustible materials that during finishing, packing or processing do not involve a significant fire hazard shall be classified as Group F-2 occupancies and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
Beverages: up to and including 20-percent alcohol content
Brick and masonry
Ceramic products
Foundries
Glass products
Gypsum
Ice
Metal products (fabrication and assembly)
SECTION 307—HIGH-HAZARD GROUP H
[F] 307.1 High-hazard Group H. High-hazard Group H occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, that involves the manufacturing, processing, generation or storage of materials that constitute a physical or health hazard in quantities in excess of those allowed in control areas complying with Section 414, based on the maximum allowable quantity limits for control areas set forth in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2). Hazardous occupancies are classified in Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5 and shall be in accordance with this section, the requirements of Section 415 and the California Fire Code . Hazardous materials stored or used on top of roofs or canopies shall be classified as rooftop storage or use and shall comply with the California Fire Code .
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OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE
[F] TABLE 307.1(1)—MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER
CONTROL AREA OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS POSING A PHYSICAL HAZARDa, i, l, mCol2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 Col11 MATERIAL CLASS GROUP WHEN
THE
MAXIMUM
ALLOWABLE
QUANTITY IS
EXCEEDEDSTORAGEb STORAGEb STORAGEb **USE-CLOSED CBC § 43-7 Medium relevance — show source text
2, Dept. of Scientific and Industrial Research and Fire Offices’ Committee, Joint Fire Research Organization, London, HMSO, 1961. 116. Robinson, W. C., The Parker Building Fire, Underwriters’ Laboratories, Chicago, c. 1908. 117. Ferris, J. E., “Fire Hazards of Combustible Wallboards,” Commonwealth Experimental Building Station Special Report, No. 18, Sydney, Oct. 1955. 118. Markwardt, L. J., Bruce, H. D., and Freas, A. D., “Brief Description of Some Fire-Test Methods Used for Wood and WoodBased Materials,” Forest Service Report, No. 1976, Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, 1976. 119. Foster, H. D., Pinkston, E. R., and Ingberg, S. H., “Fire Resistance of Walls of Gravel-Aggregate Concrete Masonry Units,” Building Materials and Structures, Report, BMS 120, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, March 1951. 120. Foster, H. D., Pinkston, E.R., and Ingberg, S. H., “Fire Resistance of Walls of Lightweight-Aggregate Concrete Masonry Units,” Building Materials and Structures, Report BMS 117, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, May 1950. 121. Structural Clay Products Institute, “Structural Clay Tile Fireproofing,” Technical Notes on Brick & Tile Construction, vol. 1, no. 11, San Francisco, Nov. 1950.
Structural Clay Products Institute, “Fire Resistance Ratings of Clay Masonry Walls—I,” Technical Notes on Brick & Tile Construction, vol. 3, no. 12, San Francisco, Dec. 1952.
Structural Clay Products Institute, “Estimating the Fire Resistance of Clay Masonry Walls—II,” Technical Notes on Brick & Tile Construction, vol. 4, no. 1, San Francisco, Jan. 1953.
Building Research Station, “Fire: Materials and Structures,” Digest, No. 106, London, HMSO, 1958.
Mitchell, N. D., “Fire Hazard Tests with Masonry Chimneys,” NFPA Publication, No. Q-43-7, Boston, Oct. 1949.
Clinton Wire Cloth Company, Some Test Data on Fireproof Floor Construction Relating to Cinder Concrete, Terra Cotta and Gypsum, Clinton, 1913.
Structural Engineers Association of Southern California, Fire Ratings Subcommittee, “Fire Ratings, a Report,” part of Annual Report, Los Angeles, 1962, pp. 30-38.
Lawson, D. I., Fox, L. L., and Webster, C. T., “The Heating of Panels by Flue Pipes,” Fire Research, Special Report, No. 1, Dept. of Scientific and Industrial Research and Fire Offices’ Committee, London, HMSO, 1952.
Forest Products Laboratory, “Fire Resistance of Wood Construction,” excerpt from “Wood Handbook—Basic Information on Wood as a Material of Construction with Data for its Use in Design and Specification,” Dept. of Agriculture Handbook, No. 72, Washington, 1955, pp. 337-350.
Goalwin, D. S., “Properties of Cavity Walls,” Building Materials and Structures, Report BMS 136, National Bureau of Standards, Washington, May 1953.
CBC § 412.7.3 Medium relevance — show source text
[BE] 412.7.3 Means of egress. The means of egress from heliports and helistops shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10. Landing areas located on buildings or structures shall have two or more exits or access to exits. For landing areas less than 60 feet (18 288 mm) in length or less than 2,000 square feet (186 m [2] ) in area, the second means of egress is permitted to be a fire escape, alternating tread device or ladder leading to the floor below.
[F] 412.7.4 Rooftop heliports and helistops. Rooftop heliports and helistops shall comply with NFPA 418.
[F] 412.7.5 Standpipe system. In buildings equipped with a standpipe system, the standpipe shall extend to the roof level in accordance with Section 905.3.5.
SECTION 413—COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE
413.1 General. High-piled stock or rack storage in any occupancy group shall comply with the California Fire Code .
413.2 Attic, under-floor and concealed spaces. Attic, under-floor and concealed spaces used for storage of combustible materials shall be protected on the storage side as required for 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Openings shall be protected by assemblies that are self-closing and are of noncombustible construction or solid wood core not less than 1 [3] / 4 inches (45 mm) in thickness.
Exception: Neither fire-resistance-rated construction nor opening protectives are required in any of the following locations:
- Areas protected by approved automatic sprinkler systems.
- Group R-3 and U occupancies.
SECTION 414—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
[F] 414.1 General. Buildings and structures occupied for the manufacturing, processing, dispensing, use or storage of hazardous materials shall comply with Sections 414.1 through 414.6.
Exception: Exemptions listed in Table 307.1.1 shall not be required to comply with Section 414.
[F] 414.1.1 Other provisions. Buildings and structures with an occupancy in Group H shall comply with this section and the applicable provisions of Section 415 and the California Fire Code. See Section 453 for Group L occupancies.
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SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
[F] 414.1.2 Materials. The safe design of hazardous material occupancies is material dependent. Individual material requirements are found in Sections 307 and 415, the California Mechanical Cod e and the California Fire Code.
[F] 414.1.2.1 Aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products. Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products shall be stored and displayed in accordance with the California Fire Code . See Section 311.2 and the California Fire Code for occupancy group requirements.
CBC § 102.1 Medium relevance — show source text
The IFC sets forth minimum requirements for these and other hazards and contains requirements for maintaining the life safety of building occupants; protecting emergency responders; and limiting the damage to a building and its contents as the result of a fire, explosion or unauthorized hazardous material discharge.
As described, the IFC has many types of requirements for buildings and facilities. The applicability of these requirements varies. An understanding of the applicability of requirements, as addressed in Sections 102.1 and 102.2, is necessary. Section 102.1 addresses when the construction and design provisions are applicable, whereas Section 102.2 addresses when the administrative, operational and maintenance provisions are applicable. Generally, the construction and design provisions apply to only new buildings or existing buildings and occupancies as addressed by Chapter 11. The administrative, maintenance and operational requirements are applicable to all buildings and facilities, whether new or existing.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CFC
Before applying the requirements of the CFC, it is beneficial to understand its arrangement and format. The CFC, like other codes published by the ICC, is arranged and organized to follow sequential steps that generally occur during a plan review or inspection.
The CFC is organized into seven parts. Each part represents a broad subject matter and includes the chapters that logically fit under the subject matter of each part. It is also foreseeable that additional chapters will need to be added in the future as regulations for new processes or operations are developed. Accordingly, the structure was designed to accommodate such future chapters by providing reserved (unused) chapters in several of the parts. This will allow the subject matter parts to be conveniently and logically expanded without requiring a major renumbering of the CFC chapters.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 PARTS AND CHAPTERS SUBJECTS Part I—Chapters 1 and 2 Administrative and definitions Part II—Chapters 3 and 4 General safety provisions Part III—Chapters 5 through 12 Building and equipment design features Part III—Chapters 13 through 19 Reserved for future use Part IV—Chapters 20 through 41_; 48 and 49_ Special occupancies and operations Part IV—Chapters 42 through_47_ Reserved for future use Part V—Chapters 50, 51 and 53 through 67 Hazardous materials Part V—Chapters_ 52,_ 68 through 79 Reserved for future use Part VI—Chapter 80 Referenced standards Part VII—Appendices A through Q Adoptable and informational appendices 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE xiii
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California Building Code Correlated Topics
The CFC requirements for fire-resistance-rated construction, interior finish, fire protection systems, means of egress and construction safeguards are directly correlated to the chapters containing parallel requirements in the CBC as follows:
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 § 1207 Medium relevance — show source text
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
Chapter 12 addresses any provisions related to energy systems found in the CFC. The expansion of such energy systems is related to meeting today’s energy, environmental and economic challenges. Ensuring appropriate criteria to address the safety of such systems in building and fire codes is an important part of protecting the public at large, building occupants and emergency responders. These requirements also facilitate the successful implementation of new technologies.
All text in Section 1207 of the 2024 CFC with the following designation (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.) is reproduced with permission from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and is based upon NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Station- ary Energy Storage Systems, Copyright © 2023 NFPA. All designated text is either directly copied from the 2023 edition of NFPA 855 or as modified by the ICC Code Development Process. This material is not the complete and official position of NFPA on the referenced subject, which is represented solely by the standard in its entirety. NFPA shall not be responsible for the manner in which this information is presented, nor for any interpretations thereof.
Chapters 13 through 19 Reserved for future use.
PART IV—SPECIAL OCCUPANCIES AND OPERATIONS
Chapter 20 Aviation Facilities
Chapter 20 specifies minimum requirements for the fire-safe operation of airports, heliports and helistops. The principal nonflight operational hazards associated with aviation involve fuel, facilities and operations. Therefore, safe use of flammable and combustible liquids during fueling and maintenance operations is emphasized. Availability of portable Class B:C-rated fire extinguishers for prompt control or suppression of incipient fires is required.
Chapter 21 Dry Cleaning
CBC § 501A.3 Medium relevance — show source text
501 A .2 Fire-resistance ratings. Fire-resistance ratings shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
501A.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to the following categories of existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this section.
501A.3.1 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980). Nonconforming buildings shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980), as used in this chapter, consists of the Uniform Building Code, 1979 (UBC 1979) along with requirements contained in: a) California Code of Regulations, Title 24- Building Standards, dated February 2, 1980 (Revision record for Register 80, No. 5). b) California Code of Regulations, Title 22 – Social Security, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41). c) California Code of Regulations, Title 17 – Public Health, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41-B). 2. All existing structural elements of Seismic Force Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements in the CBC 1980 or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent to that given in the CBC 1980, as determined by the building official. 3. A continuous load path or paths with adequate strength and stiffness to transfer all the forces from the point of origin to final point of resistance shall be justified by analysis. 4. Site data report in accordance with the CBC 1980 shall establish that seismically induced differential settlement does not exceed 1 ″ in 40 ′ .
5. Adjacent buildings shall satisfy the SPC building separation requirements in accordance with the California Administrative Code, Chapter 6 Section 3.4. 6. The addition of new structural elements or strengthening of existing structural elements for retrofit of nonconforming build- ings to SPC-4D shall comply with the following: a) The seismic demand (forces or displacements) shall be in accordance with the CBC 1980; b) Capacity, detailing and connections for new structural elements shall satisfy the requirements in the CBC 2025 for new construction; and c) The strengthening of existing structural elements shall use capacities determined in accordance with the CBC 2025 for new construction consistent with the detailing and connections used in the strengthened member. 7. All construction, quality assurance and quality control shall be in accordance with the new construction provisions of CBC 2025.
8. Elements not part of the Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS), including those identified in the California Administrative Code Chapter 6, Article 10, shall be evaluated using seismic forces and the requirements of the CBC 1980. 9. Any column or wall that forms part of two or more intersecting SFRS and is subjected to axial load due to seismic forces acting along either principal plan axis equaling or exceeding 20 percent of the axial design strength of the column or wall shall be _evaluated for the most critical load effect due to application of seismic force in any direction.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the CBC tell me to look for operational rules (inspections, labeling, maintenance) for hazardous materials?
The CBC defers those operational, maintenance and many administrative details to the California Fire Code and to the referenced standards; see § 414.1.2 and § 415.2 for the deferral and consult the CFC chapters on hazardous materials for specifics.
Does a small amount of hazardous material always trigger Group H requirements?
No. The CBC uses maximum allowable quantity (MAQ) tables (Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2)) and exemptions (Table 307.1.1). If quantities are below exemption thresholds the building may not be subject to Section 414 or Group H rules; if unclear, submit a hazardous‑materials report per § 414.1.3.
I found a CBC reference to § 307.2 — where is its text?
I could not locate the explicit wording for § 307.2 in the provided CBC files. The CBC index and topic tables do show an entry directing users to "Compliance with California Fire Code" at the 307.2 index point, indicating that § 307.2 is intended to link Group H requirements to the CFC; however the full text of § 307.2 was not included in the retrieved files.
If my design meets the CBC construction specs, am I done?
Not necessarily. The CBC construction criteria (fire barriers, control areas, separations) are necessary, but the CFC contains required fire‑protection equipment performance, operational limits, inspection/testing and many material‑specific storage and handling rules; you must comply with both the CBC construction rules and the CFC operational rules where the CBC defers. See § 414.1.2 and § 415.2.
Who enforces the CFC requirements the CBC points to?
Typically the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) — frequently the local fire department/office of the state fire marshal or building official — enforces the CFC requirements referenced by the CBC; check local adoption/amendments and the administrative sections of Title 24. The CBC also allows local amendments when filed properly.
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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