CBC · California Building Code
Decorative Materials & Interior Trim
Chapter 8 of the CBC controls fire performance, testing and area limits for interior finishes, decorative materials and trim (notably §§803, 804 and 806).
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
Overview
This area of the California Building Code (CBC) is found in Chapter 8 (Interior Finishes) and governs the fire performance and use of interior finishes, decorative materials and interior trim — including required tests, flame‑spread/smoke limits, and area limitations for combustible materials. Chapter 8 sets the overall scope and application for finishes and decorative elements (Sections 801–808) and explains how materials are classified and tested.
Practically, the rules control how wall and ceiling coverings are tested (NFPA 286 or ASTM E84/UL 723), floor and trim requirements, and special limits for decorative items and foam plastics. Key provisions to know include §803 (wall and ceiling finishes and test methods), §804 (interior trim and floor finish), §806 (decorative materials and trim, including area limits and foam‑plastic restrictions), and §807 (decorative materials/insulation); the chapter also cross‑references Title 19 and the California Fire Code for flame‑resistance treatments and occupancy‑specific rules.
This hub is an orienting overview — use the chapter and section pointers above to dive into the specific acceptance criteria, exemptions and testing protocols that apply to your occupancy and application.
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text
Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads and crash pads applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or other purposes shall be considered to be interior finish, shall comply with Section 803 and shall not be considered to be decorative materials or furnishings.
Exceptions:
In auditoriums in Group A, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall not exceed 75 percent of the aggregate wall area where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and where the material is installed in accordance with Section 803.15 of this code.
In Group R-2 dormitories, within sleeping units and dwelling units, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar decorative materials suspended from walls or ceiling shall not exceed 50 percent of the aggregate wall areas where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.
In Group B and M occupancies, the amount of combustible fabric partitions suspended from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall comply with Section 806.4 and shall not be limited.
The 10-percent limit shall not apply to curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials used as window coverings.
[F] 806.3 Occupancy-based requirements. Occupancy-based requirements for combustible decorative materials, other than decorative vegetation, not complying with Section 806.4 shall comply with Sections 807.5.1 through 807.5.6 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 806.4 Acceptance criteria and reports. Where required to exhibit improved fire performance, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall be tested by an approved agency and shall be flame resistant in accordance with the provisions set forth in CCR, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 . Reports of test results shall be prepared in accordance with the test method used and furnished to the building official on request.
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INTERIOR FINISHES
[F] 806.5 Pyroxylin plastic. Imitation leather or other material consisting of or coated with a pyroxylin or similarly hazardous base shall not be used in Group A occupancies.
[F] 806.6 Interior trim. Material, other than foam plastic used as interior trim, shall have a minimum Class B flame spread and 450 smoke-developed index in Group I-3 and for all other occupancies Class C flame spread and smoke-developed index when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as described in Section 803.1.2. Combustible trim, excluding handrails and guardrails, shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which it is attached.
[F] 806.6.1 Foam plastic. Foam plastic used as interior trim in any occupancy shall comply with Section 2604.2.
CBC § 803.13 High relevance — show source text
1||X||||||||||||||||||||||| |Table 803.13|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |804.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |804.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |804.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |804.4.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |804.4.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |806.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |806.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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8 INTERIOR FINISHES
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 8 contains the performance requirements for controlling fire growth and smoke propagation within buildings by restricting interior finish and decorative materials. The provisions of this chapter require materials used as interior finishes and decorations to meet certain flame spread index or flame propagation criteria and smoke development criteria based on the relative fire hazard associated with the occupancy. The performance of the material is evaluated based on test standards.
SECTION 801—SCOPE
801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the use of materials used as interior finishes, trim and decorative materials.
[BSC-CG] See California Green Building Standards Code, Chapter 5, Division 5.5 for additional finish material pollutant control requirements.
SECTION 802—GENERAL
802.1 Interior wall and ceiling finish. The provisions of Section 803 shall limit the allowable fire performance and smoke development of interior wall and ceiling finish materials based on occupancy classification.
802.2 Interior floor finish. The provisions of Section 804 shall limit the allowable fire performance of interior floor finish materials based on occupancy classification.
[F] 802.3 Decorative materials and trim. Decorative materials and trim shall be restricted by combustibility, fire performance or flame propagation performance criteria in accordance with Section 806.
802.4 Applicability. For buildings in flood hazard areas as established in Section 1612.3, interior finishes, trim and decorative materials below the elevation required by Section 1612 shall be flood-damage-resistant materials.
802.5 Application. Combustible materials shall be permitted to be used as finish for walls, ceilings, floors and other interior surfaces of buildings.
802.6 Windows. Show windows in the exterior walls of the first story above grade plane shall be permitted to be of wood or of unprotected metal framing.
802.7 Foam plastics. Foam plastics shall not be used as interior finish except as provided in Section 803.4. Foam plastics shall not be used as interior trim except as provided in Section 806.6.1 or 2604.2. This section shall apply both to exposed foam plastics and to foam plastics used in conjunction with a textile or vinyl facing or cover.
SECTION 803—WALL AND CEILING FINISHES
CBC § 5.5 High relevance — show source text
[BSC-CG] See California Green Building Standards Code, Chapter 5, Division 5.5 for additional finish material pollutant control requirements.
SECTION 802—GENERAL
802.1 Interior wall and ceiling finish. The provisions of Section 803 shall limit the allowable fire performance and smoke development of interior wall and ceiling finish materials based on occupancy classification.
802.2 Interior floor finish. The provisions of Section 804 shall limit the allowable fire performance of interior floor finish materials based on occupancy classification.
[F] 802.3 Decorative materials and trim. Decorative materials and trim shall be restricted by combustibility, fire performance or flame propagation performance criteria in accordance with Section 806.
802.4 Applicability. For buildings in flood hazard areas as established in Section 1612.3, interior finishes, trim and decorative materials below the elevation required by Section 1612 shall be flood-damage-resistant materials.
802.5 Application. Combustible materials shall be permitted to be used as finish for walls, ceilings, floors and other interior surfaces of buildings.
802.6 Windows. Show windows in the exterior walls of the first story above grade plane shall be permitted to be of wood or of unprotected metal framing.
802.7 Foam plastics. Foam plastics shall not be used as interior finish except as provided in Section 803.4. Foam plastics shall not be used as interior trim except as provided in Section 806.6.1 or 2604.2. This section shall apply both to exposed foam plastics and to foam plastics used in conjunction with a textile or vinyl facing or cover.
SECTION 803—WALL AND CEILING FINISHES
803.1 General. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall be classified for fire performance and smoke development in accordance with Section 803.1.1 or 803.1.2, except as shown in Sections 803.1.3 through 803.15. Materials tested in accordance with Section 803.1.1 shall not be required to be tested in accordance with Section 803.1.2.
803.1.1 Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall be classified in accordance with NFPA 286 and comply with Section 803.1.1.1. Materials complying with Section 803.1.1.1 shall be considered to also comply with the requirements of Class A.
803.1.1.1 Acceptance criteria for NFPA 286. The interior finish shall comply with the following:
During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.
The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.
Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.
The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.
The total smoke released throughout the test shall not exceed 1,000 m [2] .
803.1.2 Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall be classified in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Such interior finish materials shall be grouped in the following classes in accordance with their flame spread and smoke-developed indices.
Class A = Flame spread index 0–25; smoke-developed index 0–450.
Class B = Flame spread index 26–75; smoke developed index 0–450.
Class C = Flame spread index 76–200; smoke-developed index 0–450.
CBC § 8-1 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISHES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1
801 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
802 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Wall and Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
804 Interior Floor Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
805 Combustible Materials in Types I and II Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
806 Decorative Materials and Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
807 Insulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
808 Acoustical Ceiling Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE
SAFETY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Fire Pump and Riser Room Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17
905 Standpipe Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
906 Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
909 Smoke Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
910 Smoke and Heat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51
CBC § 806.4 High relevance — show source text
[F] 806.4 Acceptance criteria and reports. Where required to exhibit improved fire performance, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall be tested by an approved agency and shall be flame resistant in accordance with the provisions set forth in CCR, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 . Reports of test results shall be prepared in accordance with the test method used and furnished to the building official on request.
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INTERIOR FINISHES
[F] 806.5 Pyroxylin plastic. Imitation leather or other material consisting of or coated with a pyroxylin or similarly hazardous base shall not be used in Group A occupancies.
[F] 806.6 Interior trim. Material, other than foam plastic used as interior trim, shall have a minimum Class B flame spread and 450 smoke-developed index in Group I-3 and for all other occupancies Class C flame spread and smoke-developed index when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as described in Section 803.1.2. Combustible trim, excluding handrails and guardrails, shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which it is attached.
[F] 806.6.1 Foam plastic. Foam plastic used as interior trim in any occupancy shall comply with Section 2604.2.
[F] 806.7 Interior floor-wall base. Interior floor-wall base that is 6 inches (152 mm) or less in height shall be tested in accordance with Section 804.2 and shall be not less than Class II. Where a Class I floor finish is required, the floor-wall base shall be Class I.
Exception: Interior trim materials that comply with Section 806.6.
[F] 806.8 Combustible lockers. Where lockers constructed of combustible materials are used, the lockers shall be considered to be interior finish and shall comply with Section 803.
Exception: Lockers constructed entirely of wood and noncombustible materials shall be permitted to be used wherever interior finish materials are required to meet a Class C classification in accordance with Section 803.1.2.
SECTION 807—INSULATION
807.1 Insulation. Thermal and acoustical insulation shall comply with Section 720.
SECTION 808—ACOUSTICAL CEILING SYSTEMS
808.1 Acoustical ceiling systems. The quality, design, fabrication and erection of metal suspension systems for acoustical tile and lay-in panel ceilings in buildings or structures shall conform to generally accepted engineering practice, the provisions of this chapter and other applicable requirements of this code.
808.1.1 Materials and installation. Acoustical materials complying with the interior finish requirements of Section 803 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and applicable provisions for applying interior finish.
808.1.1.1 Suspended acoustical ceilings. Suspended acoustical ceiling systems shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of ASTM C635 and ASTM C636.
808.1.1.2 Fire-resistance-rated construction. Acoustical ceiling systems that are part of fire-resistance-rated construction shall be installed in the same manner used in the assembly tested and shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.
CBC § 5.1.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.1.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.1.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.3_ –807.5.3.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.7|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.7.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |808.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.19 (b)(c)]_||||X||||||||||||||||||||
- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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8 INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 8 provides requirements for interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards in buildings. The provisions tend to focus on occupancies with specific risk characteristics, such as vulnerability of occupants, density of occupants, lack of familiarity with the building and societal expectations of importance. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the California Building Code, which regulates the interior finishes and decorative materials of new buildings.
SECTION 801—GENERAL
801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern interior finish, interior trim, furniture, furnishings, decorative materials and decorative vegetation in buildings. Existing buildings shall comply with Sections 803 through 808. New buildings shall comply with Sections 804 through 808, and Section 803 of the California Building Code.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1172] Purpose.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 have been prepared and adopted for the purpose of establishing minimum standards for the prevention of fire and for the protection of life and property against fire and panic through the use of flame-retardant chemicals, fabrics and materials.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1173] Scope.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 shall govern the manufacture, sale and application of flame-retardant chemicals used in connection with fabrics or materials required to be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition as provided in Sections 13115 or 13119 of the Health and Safety Code. These rules and regulations shall also apply to fabrics or materials inherently nonflammable and, they shall also establish minimum fire-resistive standards for such fabrics or materials.
CBC § 803.13 Medium relevance — show source text
Interior finishes Table 803.13, 804 Live load Table 1607.1 Means of egress Corridors 1020.3
Stairway, exit access 1019
Travel distance 407, 1006.3, 1017.2,
1006.2.1
Mixed occupancies 508.3, 508.4 Occupancy exceptions 303.1.1, 303.1.2, 308.5.1, 308.5.4, 310.4.1 Plumbing fixtures Chapter 29 Risk category Table 1604.5 Standby, emergency power 2702.2 Insulation
Concealed 720.2
Duct insulation 720.1
Exposed 720.3 Fiberboard 720.1, Table 1508.2, 2303.1.6.2, 2303.1.6.3 Foam plastic (see Foam Plastics) 720.1
Loose fill 720.4, 720.6 Pipe insulation 720.1, 720.7 Reflective plastic core 2614 Roof 720.5, 1508 Sound 720, 807, 1206 Thermal 720, 807, 1508 Interior Environment Lighting 1204 Rodentproofing Appendix F Sound transmission 1206
Space dimensions 1208 Temperature control 1203 Ventilation 409.3, 414.3, 415.9.1.7,
1202.5
Yards or courts 1205.2, 1205.3 Interior Finishes Chapter 8 Acoustical ceiling systems 807, 808 Application 803.13, 804.4 Atriums 404.8 Children’s play structures 424 Covered and open mall buildings 402.6
Decorative materials 419, 802.3, 806 Floor finish 804, 805 Foam plastic insulation 2603.3, 2603.4 Foam plastic trim 806.6.1, 2604.2 Insulation 807 Light-transmitting plastics 2606 Signs 402.6.4, 2611 Site-fabricated stretch systems 803.10 Trim 806.6, 806.7 Wall and ceiling finishes 803 Wet location 1210 Intermodal Shipping Container 3114 Interpretation, Code 104.1
Jails [see Institutional (see Group I-3)] 308.5, 408 Joint Gypsum board 2508.5 Lumber sheathing 2308.11.10 Waterproofing 1805.3.3 Joints, Fire-resistant Systems 715 Special inspection 1705.18
Kiosks 402.6.2
Kitchens 303.3, 306.2 Accessibility 1133A, 11B-212 Dimensions 1209 Means of egress 1016.2 Occupant load Table 1004.5 Sinks Chapter 29
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INDEX
Marquees 3106, H113 Construction 3106.5
CBC § 8-3 Medium relevance — show source text
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CONTENTS
802 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish in Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 804 Interior Wall and Ceiling Trim and Interior Floor Finish in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 805 Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 806 Natural Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 807 Decorative Materials and Artificial Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . 8-10 808 Furnishings Other than Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses or Decorative Materials in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY
SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13 904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems . 9-24 905 Standpipe Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28 906 Portable Fire Extinguishers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31 907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39 908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 909 Smoke Control Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 910 Smoke and Heat Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-66
CBC § 7-21 Medium relevance — show source text
713 Shaft Enclosures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21
714 Penetrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-23
715 Joints and Voids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-26
716 Opening Protectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-27
717 Ducts and Air Transfer Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-34
718 Concealed Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-40
719 Fire-Resistance Requirements for Plaster . . . . . . . . 7-42
720 Thermal- and Sound-Insulating Materials . . . . . . . . 7-42
721 Prescriptive Fire Resistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-43
722 Calculated Fire Resistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-66
CHAPTER 7A [SFM] MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION
METHODS FOR EXTERIOR WILDFIRE EXPOSURE . . . . . . . 7A-1
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISHES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1
801 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
802 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Wall and Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
804 Interior Floor Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
805 Combustible Materials in Types I and II Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
806 Decorative Materials and Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
807 Insulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
808 Acoustical Ceiling Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE
CBC § 8-10 Medium relevance — show source text
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads and crash pads applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or other purposes shall be considered to be interior finish, shall comply with Section 803 and shall not be considered decorative materials or furnishings.
Exceptions:
In auditoriums in Group A, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative material suspended from walls or ceilings shall not exceed 75 percent of the aggregate wall area where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and where the material is installed in accordance with Section 803.15 of the California Building Code.
In Group R-2 dormitories, within sleeping units and dwelling units, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall not exceed 50 percent of the aggregate wall areas where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.
In Group B and M occupancies, the amount of combustible fabric partitions suspended from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall comply with Section 807.3 and shall not be limited.
The 10-percent limit shall not apply to curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials used as window coverings.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.08]. Decorative Materials.
In every Group A, E, I, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancy, all drapes, hangings, curtains, drops and all other decorative material, including Christmas trees, that would tend to increase the fire and panic hazard shall be made from a nonflammable material, or shall be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition by means of a flame-retardant solution or process approved by the State Fire Marshal, as set forth in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8. Exits, exit lights, fire alarm sending stations, wet standpipe hose cabinets and fire extinguisher locations shall not be concealed, in whole or in part, by any decorative material.
Exceptions: (a) Cubical curtains and individual patient room window curtains and drapes in Group I, R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancies. (b) Window curtains and drapes within dwelling units of Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies. (c) Christmas trees within dwelling units of Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1273.1] Fabrics for Interior Use.
Fabrics as described in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, 1272(c) intended for interior use shall be tested in their original condition only and shall meet the requirements for fire resistance outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 1273.3.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1273.2] Fabrics for Exterior Use.
CBC § 801.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 801—GENERAL
801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern interior finish, interior trim, furniture, furnishings, decorative materials and decorative vegetation in buildings. Existing buildings shall comply with Sections 803 through 808. New buildings shall comply with Sections 804 through 808, and Section 803 of the California Building Code.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1172] Purpose.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 have been prepared and adopted for the purpose of establishing minimum standards for the prevention of fire and for the protection of life and property against fire and panic through the use of flame-retardant chemicals, fabrics and materials.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1173] Scope.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 shall govern the manufacture, sale and application of flame-retardant chemicals used in connection with fabrics or materials required to be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition as provided in Sections 13115 or 13119 of the Health and Safety Code. These rules and regulations shall also apply to fabrics or materials inherently nonflammable and, they shall also establish minimum fire-resistive standards for such fabrics or materials.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 shall also establish minimum standards and specific procedures for the approval of flame-retardant chemicals, flame retardant materials and flame retardant applicator concerns.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1174] Basis.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 are based upon the presumption of fact that fabrics and similar materials commonly known to be flammable increase, or may cause the increase of, the hazard or menace of fire; that proper and adequate flame-retardant treatment through the use of certain chemicals is possible whereby the danger to life and property from fire and panic can be materially reduced; and, that there do exist certain fabrics and materials which by nature are nonflammable.
SECTION 802—DEFINITIONS
802.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
FLAME SPREAD.
FLAME SPREAD INDEX.
INTERIOR FLOOR-WALL BASE.
SITE-FABRICATED STRETCH SYSTEM.
SMOKE-DEVELOPED INDEX.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1191] Approved.
“Approved” means approved by the State Fire Marshal.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1196] Flame-retardant Chemical.
“Flame-Retardant Chemical,” as used herein, means any chemical, chemical compound or chemical mixture which when properly applied to a fabric or material will render such fabric or material incapable of supporting combustion to the extent that it will success- fully withstand the tests and meet the specifications promulgated by the State Fire Marshal.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1201] Nonflammable Material.
“Nonflammable Material,” as used herein, means a fabric or material which is inherently flame-resistant to the extent that it will meet the requirements of the fire resistance test herein prescribed, but shall not include materials which must be chemically treated or processed after manufacture to make them flame-resistant.
CBC § 803.13 Medium relevance — show source text
803.13 Laminated products factory produced with an attached wood substrate. Laminated products factory produced with an attached wood substrate shall comply with one of the following:
- The laminated product shall meet the criteria of Section 803.1.1 when tested in accordance with NFPA 286 using the product mounting system, including adhesive, of actual use.
- The laminated product shall have a Class A, B or C flame spread index and smoke-developed index based on the requirements of Table 803.3, in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Test specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2579.
8-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
803.14 Thickness exemption. Materials having a thickness less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) applied directly to the surface of walls or ceilings shall not be required to be tested.
803.15 Heavy timber exemption. Exposed portions of building elements complying with the requirements of Type IV construction in accordance with the California Building Code shall not be subject to interior finish requirements.
SECTION 804—INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING TRIM AND INTERIOR FLOOR FINISH IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
804.1 Interior trim. Combustible trim in new and existing buildings, excluding handrails and guards, shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling areas to which it is attached. Other than foam plastic, material used as interior trim shall have minimum Class B flame spread and 450 smoke-developed index in Group I-3 and for all other occupancies shall comply with Section 804.1.1 or 804.1.2. Foam plastic used as interior trim shall comply with Section 804.2.
804.1.1 Testing in accordance with NFPA 286. Interior trim material shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and comply with the acceptance criteria in Section 803.1.1.1. Where the interior trim material has been tested as an interior finish in accordance with NFPA 286 and complies with the acceptance criteria in Section 803.1.1.1, it shall not be required to be tested for flame spread index and smoke-developed index in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
804.1.2 Testing in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Material, other than foam plastic, used as interior trim shall have minimum Class C flame spread and smoke-developed indices, when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as described in Section 803.1.2.
804.2 Foam plastic interior trim. Foam plastic used as interior trim shall comply with Sections 804.2.1 through 804.2.4. 804.2.1 Density. The minimum density of the interior trim shall be 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m [3] ). 804.2.2 Thickness. The maximum thickness of the interior trim shall be [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) and the maximum width shall be 8 inches (203 mm).
804.2.3 Area limitation. The interior trim shall not constitute more than 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which it is attached.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum amount of combustible interior trim allowed?
Combustible interior trim (excluding handrails and guardrails) is limited to no more than 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which it is attached.
What flame‑spread / smoke classification do trim and decorative materials need?
Interior finishes and trim are evaluated by NFPA 286 or by ASTM E84/UL 723. Trim and decorative materials (other than foam plastic) must meet the applicable class limits in §803.1.2; interior trim requirements are specifically called out in §804 and §806 (foam plastics have separate rules).
Are there exceptions for curtains, draperies or fabric hangings?
Yes — many combustible fabrics are limited to 10 percent of wall/ceiling area in most occupancies, but there are occupancy and sprinkler‑system exceptions (for example, certain auditoriums and dormitory situations allow larger areas where an approved automatic sprinkler system and specific installation/testing criteria are met). See the occupancy‑based exceptions and Title 19/CFC cross‑references for details.
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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