CBC · California Building Code

When is NFPA 286 testing required and what are the acceptance criteria?

If a wall or ceiling finish is evaluated under NFPA 286 to qualify as “Class A” in California, it must meet five specific pass/fail items in CBC § 803.1.1.1: no ceiling flame spread during the 40 kW exposure, no flame to the sample extremity, no flashover, peak heat release ≤ 800 kW, and total smoke ≤ 1,000 m2. Test the product exactly as it will be installed (including adhesives and mounting) or use the ASTM E84 path where allowed; thin coverings under 0.036" are exempt.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

When an interior wall or ceiling finish is evaluated using the large‑scale room‑corner method (NFPA 286) the material must meet the five acceptance criteria listed in § 803.1.1.1 of the California Building Code. Materials that meet those NFPA 286 criteria are treated as Class A finishes where a Class A finish is required (§ 803.1.1.1 ).

Requirements in detail

Which materials/uses invoke NFPA 286 under the CBC

  • NFPA 286 may be used to classify interior wall and ceiling finishes instead of ASTM E84/UL 723; where the material meets the NFPA 286 acceptance criteria in § 803.1.1.1 it is permitted to be used where a Class A finish is required (§ 803.1.1 and § 803.1.2 ).
  • Many special products are specifically required or permitted to be tested using NFPA 286 (for example: textile wall coverings, expanded vinyl, HDPE/PP finishes, site‑fabricated stretch systems, factory‑laminated products, facings/veneers and certain trim) — the applicable product section will reference NFPA 286 or § 803.1.1.1 (see § 803.5, § 803.7–§ 803.13, § 804.1.1 ).

The five acceptance criteria (decision table)

Decision dimension Requirement / limit Code Reference
40 kW ignition exposure — ceiling flame spread Flames shall not spread to the ceiling during the 40 kW exposure § 803.1.1.1 (criterion 1)
Edge/outer extremity spread Flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling § 803.1.1.1 (criterion 2)
Flashover Flashover (NFPA 286 definition) shall not occur § 803.1.1.1 (criterion 3)
Peak heat release rate (HRR) Peak heat release rate during the test shall not exceed 800 kW § 803.1.1.1 (criterion 4)
Total smoke release Total smoke released throughout the test shall not exceed 1,000 m2 (per the test units) § 803.1.1.1 (criterion 5)

Notes on the table:

  • Meeting all five items is required for the NFPA 286 performance path to be considered compliant under § 803.1.1.1. If any single criterion fails, the product does not meet the CBC acceptance criteria via NFPA 286 (§ 803.1.1.1 ).
  • When NFPA 286 is used and the acceptance criteria are met, the material is treated as equivalent to Class A (ASTM E84/UL 723 Class A) for code application (§ 803.1.1 and § 803.1.2 ).

Test specimen and mounting requirements (code expectations)

  • The CBC requires testing "in the manner intended for use" for many products (textiles, facings, veneers, laminated products, site‑fabricated systems). That means the specimen must include the product’s mounting system and adhesives where applicable (see § 803.5, § 803.11, § 803.12 and related sections) — failure to test the assembly as installed can invalidate results for code use (§ 803.5; § 803.11; § 803.12 ).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Thickness exemption: materials less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) applied directly to the surface of walls or ceilings are not required to be tested (§ 803.2 / § 803.14 ).
  • Heavy timber: exposed heavy‑timber elements meeting the heavy timber construction requirements are generally not subject to interior finish rules except for certain egress areas (§ 803.3 / § 803.15 ).
  • Interior trim: interior trim may be tested under NFPA 286 and, if it meets § 803.1.1.1, it is not required to be tested under ASTM E84/UL 723 (§ 804.1.1 ).
  • Foam plastics: foam plastics have their own restrictions; they are generally not permitted as interior finish except where specific sections and testing/thermal barrier provisions allow it (see § 803.4 and § 803.11) — NFPA 286 acceptance alone may not be the only requirement for foam plastics (§ 803.4; § 803.11 ).
  • Certain exterior or composite systems (e.g., MCM, IMP, HPL) may use NFPA 286 acceptance criteria as one of several alternate testing paths in lieu of prescribed thermal barriers or other tests; check the specific assembly section (for example, § 1406, § 1408, § 1409 reference NFPA 286 acceptance criteria) (§ 1406.10.2 exception, § 1408.10.3, § 1409.7.2.2 ).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any NFPA 286 test report suffices: the CBC requires the specific acceptance criteria in § 803.1.1.1; a test that does not report the five CBC criteria (40 kW ceiling spread, outer extremity spread, flashover, peak HRR ≤ 800 kW, total smoke ≤ 1,000 m2) cannot by itself demonstrate code compliance (§ 803.1.1.1 ).
  • Testing only the product — not the mounting system: many CBC sections explicitly require testing the product as mounted (adhesives, substrates, seams). Tests that omit the intended mounting method may not be acceptable (§ 803.5; § 803.11; § 803.12 ).
  • Confusing ASTM E84/UL 723 with NFPA 286: ASTM E84 gives a flame‑spread index and smoke‑developed index; NFPA 286 is a room‑corner test with different pass/fail criteria. The code allows either path where specified, but when NFPA 286 is used the CBC acceptance criteria in § 803.1.1.1 apply (§ 803.1.1 and § 803.1.2 ).
  • Ignoring exemptions: very thin applied materials (<0.036 in) and certain heavy timber exposures are exempt from testing — designers sometimes test unnecessarily or apply wrong limits (§ 803.2 / § 803.14; § 803.3 / § 803.15 ).
  • Misreading units for smoke or HRR: use the test report units and compare to the CBC limits (peak HRR ≤ 800 kW; total smoke ≤ 1,000 m2) — do not convert incorrectly or apply per‑area modifiers that the CBC does not specify (§ 803.1.1.1 ).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A manufacturer proposes a factory‑laminated wood veneer product (wood face bonded to a wood substrate) to be used as interior wall finish in corridors where a Class A finish is required.

Applicable code paths:

  • Option A — test the laminated product in the actual mounting system using NFPA 286 and meet the acceptance criteria in § 803.1.1.1; if it passes, it is allowable as Class A (§ 803.11; § 803.1.1.1 ).
  • Option B — test per ASTM E84/UL 723 to demonstrate a Class A flame spread index (0–25) and smoke ≤ 450 per § 803.1.2 (§ 803.11; § 803.1.2 ).

Test results (NFPA 286 trial, product mounted as intended):

  • No ceiling flame spread during 40 kW exposure — PASS (criterion 1).
  • No flame to outer extremity — PASS (criterion 2).
  • No flashover — PASS (criterion 3).
  • Peak HRR recorded = 720 kW (< 800 kW) — PASS (criterion 4).
  • Total smoke released = 850 m2 (< 1,000 m2) — PASS (criterion 5).

Conclusion: Because all five § 803.1.1.1 criteria are met in the tested configuration, the laminated product is acceptable as a Class A interior finish in the corridor application (§ 803.11; § 803.1.1.1 ).

Related provisions (CBC / related chapters)

  • § 803.1.1 — Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 (general statement on NFPA 286 use) .
  • § 803.1.1.1 — Acceptance criteria for NFPA 286 (the controlling list of five criteria) .
  • § 803.1.2 — Interior finishes tested per ASTM E84 / UL 723 (Class A/B/C indexes) .
  • § 803.2 / § 803.14 — Thickness exemption (< 0.036 in) from testing .
  • § 803.3 / § 803.15 — Heavy timber exemptions and limitations .
  • § 803.5 — Textile wall coverings — must be tested as installed (product mounting, adhesives) and comply with § 803.1.1 or other textile sub‑sections .
  • § 803.10 — Site‑fabricated stretch systems — testing in manner intended for use (§ 803.1.1 or ASTM E84 per mounting guidance) .
  • § 803.11–803.13 — Laminated products, facings/veneers, occupancy‑based finish requirements — reference NFPA 286 acceptance criteria where noted (§ 803.11, § 803.12, § 803.13) .
  • § 804.1.1 — Interior trim: NFPA 286 testing and reliance on § 803.1.1.1 acceptance criteria for trim materials (§ 804.1.1) .
  • Chapter 14 sections (e.g., § 1406, § 1408, § 1409) — special assemblies (MCM, HPL, IMP) sometimes reference NFPA 286 acceptance as an alternate path in lieu of prescribed thermal barrier/testing for certain exterior/interior applications (§ 1406.10.2 exception, § 1408.10.3, § 1409.7.2.2) .

Code references

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

  • 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:

    1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.

    2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.

    3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.

    4. The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.

    5. 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 § 803.1 High relevance — show source text

    INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS

    SECTION 803—INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING FINISH IN EXISTING BUILDINGS

    803.1 General. The provisions of this section shall limit the allowable fire performance and smoke development of interior wall and ceiling finishes in existing buildings based on location and occupancy classification. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall be classified in accordance with Section 803 of the California Building Code . Such materials shall be classified in accordance with NFPA 286, as indicated in Section 803.1.1, or in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as indicated in Section 803.1.2.

    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 tested in accordance with Section 803.1.1.1. Materials complying with Section 803.1.1.1 shall be considered to comply with the requirements of Class A specified in Section 803.1.2.

    803.1.1.1 Acceptance criteria for NFPA 286. The interior finish shall comply with the following:

    1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.

    2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.

    3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.

    4. The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.

    5. 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 finishes 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.

    Exception: Materials tested in accordance with Section 803.1.1 and as indicated in Sections 803.1.3 through 803.15.

    803.1.3 Interior wall and ceiling finish materials with specific requirements. The materials indicated in Sections 803.4 through 803.15 shall be tested as indicated in the corresponding sections.

    803.2 Stability. Interior finish materials regulated by this chapter shall be applied or otherwise fastened in such a manner that such materials will not readily become detached where subjected to room temperatures of 200°F (93°C) for not less than 30 minutes.

    803.3 Interior finish requirements based on occupancy. Interior wall and ceiling finish shall have a flame spread index not greater than that specified in Table 803.3 for the group and location designated. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286, and meeting the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, shall be used where a Class A classification in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 is required.

    |TABLE 803.

  • CBC § 803.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    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:

    1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.

    2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.

    3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.

    4. The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.

    5. 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.

    Exception: Materials tested in accordance with Section 803.1.1 and as indicated in Sections 803.1.3 through 803.13.

    803.1.3 Interior wall and ceiling finish materials with different requirements. The materials indicated in Sections 803.2 through 803.13 shall be tested as indicated in the corresponding sections.

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    INTERIOR FINISHES

    803.2 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.

    803.3 Heavy timber exemption. Exposed portions of building elements complying with the requirements for buildings of heavy timber construction in Section 602.4 or Section 2304.11 shall not be subject to interior finish requirements except in interior exit stairways, interior exit ramps, and exit passageways.

    803.4 Foam plastics. Foam plastics shall not be used as interior finish except as provided in Section 2603.9. This section shall apply both to exposed foam plastics and to foam plastics used in conjunction with a textile or vinyl facing or cover.

    803.5 Textile wall coverings. Where used as interior wall finish materials, textile wall coverings, including materials having woven or nonwoven, napped, tufted, looped or similar surface and carpet and similar textile materials, shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product-mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of one of the following: Section 803.1.1, 803.5.1 or 803.5.2.

  • CBC § 803.13 High 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:

    1. 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.
    2. 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.

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    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.

  • CBC § 804.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    804.2.4 Flame spread. The flame spread index shall not exceed 75 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. The smoke-developed index shall not be limited.

    Exception: 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 is not required to be tested for flame spread index in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

    804.3 New interior floor finish. New interior floor finish and floor covering materials in new and existing buildings shall comply with Sections 804.3.1 through 804.3.3.2.

    Exception: Floor finishes and coverings of a traditional type, such as wood, vinyl, linoleum or terrazzo, and resilient floor covering materials that are not composed of fibers.

    804.3.1 Classification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials required by Section 804.3.3.2 to be of Class I or II materials shall be classified in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253. The classification referred to herein corresponds to the classifications determined by ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 as follows: Class I, 0.45 watts/cm [2] or greater; Class II, 0.22 watts/cm [2] or greater.

    804.3.2 Testing and identification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall be tested by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 and identified by a hang tag or other suitable method so as to identify the manufacturer or supplier and style, and shall indicate the interior floor finish or floor covering classification in accordance with Section 804.3.1. Carpet-type floor coverings shall be tested as proposed for use, including underlayment. Test reports confirming the information provided in the manufacturer’s product identification shall be furnished to the fire code official upon request.

  • CBC § 802.1 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1202] Place of Public Assemblage.

    “Place of Public Assemblage,” as used herein, means any occupancy mentioned in Sections 13115 or 13119 of the Health and Safety Code.

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    INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS

    SECTION 803—INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING FINISH IN EXISTING BUILDINGS

    803.1 General. The provisions of this section shall limit the allowable fire performance and smoke development of interior wall and ceiling finishes in existing buildings based on location and occupancy classification. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall be classified in accordance with Section 803 of the California Building Code . Such materials shall be classified in accordance with NFPA 286, as indicated in Section 803.1.1, or in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as indicated in Section 803.1.2.

    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 tested in accordance with Section 803.1.1.1. Materials complying with Section 803.1.1.1 shall be considered to comply with the requirements of Class A specified in Section 803.1.2.

    803.1.1.1 Acceptance criteria for NFPA 286. The interior finish shall comply with the following:

    1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.

    2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.

    3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.

    4. The peak heat release rate throughout the test shall not exceed 800 kW.

    5. The total smoke released throughout the test shall not exceed 1,000 m [2] .

  • CBC § 803.13 High relevance — show source text

    1. Aluminum composite material (ACM) meeting the requirements of Class A interior finish in accordance with Chapter 8 when tested as an assembly in the maximum thickness intended for use.

    2. Textiles and films complying with the fire propagation performance criteria contained in Test Method 1 or Test Method 2, as appropriate, of NFPA 701.

    3. Plastic materials used to construct rigid components of soft-contained play equipment structures (such as tubes, windows, panels, junction boxes, pipes, slides and decks) exhibiting a peak rate of heat release not exceeding 400 kW/ m [2] when tested in accordance with ASTM E1354 at an incident heat flux of 50 kW/m [2] in the horizontal orientation at a thickness of 6 mm.

    4. Ball pool balls, used in soft-contained play equipment structures, having a maximum heat-release rate not greater than 100 kilowatts when tested in accordance with UL 1975 or when tested in accordance with NFPA 289, using the 20 kW ignition source. The minimum specimen test size shall be 36 inches by 36 inches (914 mm by 914 mm) by an average of 21 inches (533 mm) deep, and the balls shall be held in a box constructed of galvanized steel poultry netting wire mesh.

    5. Foam plastics shall be covered by a fabric, coating or film meeting the fire propagation performance criteria contained in Test Method 1 or Test Method 2, as appropriate, of NFPA 701.

    6. The floor covering placed under the play structure shall exhibit a Class I interior floor finish classification, as described in Section 804, when tested in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253.

    7. Interior finishes for structures exceeding 600 square feet (56 m [2] ) in area or 10 feet (3048 mm) in height shall have a flame spread index not greater than that specified in Table 803.13 for the occupancy group and location designated. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and meeting the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, shall be permitted to be used where a Class A classification in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 is required.

    [F] 424.3 Fire protection. Play structures shall be provided with the same level of approved fire suppression and detection devices required for other structures in the same occupancy.

    [BF] 424.4 Separation. Play structures shall have a horizontal separation from building walls, partitions and from elements of the means of egress of not less than 5 feet (1524 mm). Play structures shall have a horizontal separation from other play structures of not less than 20 feet (6090 mm).

    [BF] 424.5 Area limits. Play structures shall be not greater than 600 square feet (56 m [2] ) in area, unless a special investigation, acceptable to the building official, has demonstrated adequate fire safety.

    [BF] 424.5.1 Design. Play structures exceeding 600 square feet (56 m [2] ) in area or 10 feet (3048 mm) in height shall be designed in accordance with Chapter 16.

    SECTION 425—HYPERBARIC FACILITIES

    425.1 Hyperbaric facilities. Hyperbaric facilities shall meet the requirements contained in Chapter 14 of NFPA 99.

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    SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE

  • CBC § 803.12 High relevance — show source text

    803.12 Facings or wood veneers intended to be applied on site over a wood substrate. Facings or veneers intended to be applied on site over a wood substrate shall comply with one of the following:

    1. The facing or veneer shall meet the criteria of Section 803.1.1.1 when tested in accordance with NFPA 286 using the product mounting system, including adhesive, as described in Section 5.9 of NFPA 286.
    2. The facing or veneer shall have a Class A, B or C flame spread index and smoke-developed index, based on the requirements of Table 803.13, in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Test specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2404.

    803.13 Interior finish requirements based on occupancy. Interior wall and ceiling finish shall have a classification such that the flame spread index and smoke-developed index values are not higher than those corresponding to the classification specified in Table 803.13 for the group and location designated. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and meeting the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, shall be permitted to be used where a Class A classification in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 is required.

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    INTERIOR FINISHES

    TABLE 803.13—INTERIOR WALL AND CEILING FINISH REQUIREMENTS BY OCCUPANCYk Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7
    GROUP SPRINKLEREDl SPRINKLEREDl SPRINKLEREDl NONSPRINKLERED NONSPRINKLERED NONSPRINKLERED
    GROUP Interior exit stair-
    ways and ramps
    and exit passage-
    waysa, b    		 Corridors and
    enclosure for exit
    access stairways
    and ramps    		 Rooms and
    enclosed spacesc    		 Interior exit stair-
    ways and ramps
    and exit passage-
    waysa, b    		 Corridors and
    enclosure for exit
    access stairways
    and ramps    		 Rooms and
    enclosed spacesc
    A-1 & A-2 B B C A Ad Be
    A-3f, A-4, A-5 B B C A Ad C
    B, E, M, R-1 B Cm C A B C
    R-4_n_ B C C A B B
    F C C C B C C
    H_, L_ B B Cg NP NP NP
    I-2_o_ B B Bh, i A A B
    I-3 A Aj B NP NP NP
    I-4 B B Bh,
  • CBC § 1409.7.1 High relevance — show source text

    1409.7.1 Surface-burning characteristics. Unless otherwise specified in this section, a combustible core 4 inches (102 mm) or less in thickness shall have a flame spread index of 75 or less and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less when tested in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. For thicknesses greater than 4 inches (102 mm), the combustible core shall have a flame spread index of 75 or less and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less at 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness and the IMP approved based on testing in accordance with Section 1409.7.2.2 at the maximum IMP thickness intended for use.

    1409.7.1.1 Foam plastic core. For IMP having a core insulation composed of foam plastic, the insulation core shall comply with Section 2603.3.

    1409.7.2 Thermal barrier. Unless otherwise specified in this section, IMP with a combustible core shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier consisting of [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.

    1409.7.2.1 Foam plastic core. For IMP having a foam plastic core, use with the thermal barrier prescribed in Section 1409.7.2 shall be in accordance with Section 2603.4 unless special approval is obtained on the basis of Section 2603.9.

    1409.7.2.2 Special approval. The thermal barrier specified in Section 1409.7.2 is not required where IMP is specifically approved based on tests conducted in accordance with, but not limited to, NFPA 286 (with the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1), FM 4880 or UL 1715. Such testing shall be performed with the IMP in a configuration related to the actual end-use and at the maximum thickness intended for use, and shall include seams, factory joints, sealants and other typical details intended for use.

    1409.7.3 Type I, II, III, and IV construction. Where used as exterior walls or as exterior wall coverings on buildings of Type I, II, III and IV construction, IMP systems shall comply with this section as follows:

    1. IMP having a foam plastic core shall comply with Section 2603.5.
    2. IMP having combustible core other than foam plastic shall comply with Sections 1409.7.3.1 through 1409.7.3.4.

    1409.7.3.1 Surface-burning characteristics. A combustible core not greater than 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness shall have a flame spread index of 25 or less and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less when tested in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. For thicknesses greater than 4 inches (102 mm) the combustible core shall have a flame spread index of 75 or less and a smoke-developed index of 450 or less at 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness and the IMP approved based on testing in accordance with Section 1409.7.2.2 at the maximum IMP thickness intended for use.

    1409.7.3.2 Thermal barrier. IMP shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier in accordance with Section 1409.7.2.

  • CBC § 803.7 High relevance — show source text

    803.7 Expanded vinyl wall coverings. Where used as interior wall finish materials, expanded vinyl wall coverings shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product-mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of one of the following: Section 803.1.1, 803.5.1 or 803.5.2.

    803.8 Expanded vinyl ceiling coverings. Where used as interior ceiling finish materials, expanded vinyl ceiling coverings shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.1 or 803.5.2.

    803.9 High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP). Where high-density polyethylene or polypropylene is used as an interior finish, it shall comply with Section 803.1.1.

    803.10 Site-fabricated stretch systems. Where used as interior wall or interior ceiling finish materials, site-fabricated stretch systems containing all three components described in the definition in Chapter 2 shall be tested in the manner intended for use, and shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.1 or with the requirements of Class A in accordance with Section 803.1.2. If the materials are tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2573.

    803.11 Laminated products factory produced with a wood substrate. Laminated products factory produced with a wood substrate shall comply with one of the following:

    1. The laminated product shall meet the criteria of Section 803.1.1.1 when tested in accordance with NFPA 286 using the product-mounting system, including adhesive, as described in Section 5.8 of NFPA 286.
    2. The laminated product shall have a Class A, B, or C flame spread index and smoke-developed index, based on the requirements of Table 803.13, in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Test specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2579.

    803.12 Facings or wood veneers intended to be applied on site over a wood substrate. Facings or veneers intended to be applied on site over a wood substrate shall comply with one of the following:

    1. The facing or veneer shall meet the criteria of Section 803.1.1.1 when tested in accordance with NFPA 286 using the product mounting system, including adhesive, as described in Section 5.9 of NFPA 286.
    2. The facing or veneer shall have a Class A, B or C flame spread index and smoke-developed index, based on the requirements of Table 803.13, in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Test specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2404.

    803.13 Interior finish requirements based on occupancy. Interior wall and ceiling finish shall have a classification such that the flame spread index and smoke-developed index values are not higher than those corresponding to the classification specified in Table 803.13 for the group and location designated. Interior wall and ceiling finish materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and meeting the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, shall be permitted to be used where a Class A classification in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 is required.

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  • CBC § 1408.10 High relevance — show source text

    1408.10 Types I, II, III and IV construction. Where installed on buildings of Types I, II, III and IV construction, HPL systems shall comply with Sections 1408.10.1 through 1408.10.4, or Section 1408.11.

    1408.10.1 Surface-burning characteristics. HPL shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL

    1408.10.2 Thermal barriers. HPL shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier consisting of 1 / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.

    1408.10.3 Thermal barrier not required. The thermal barrier specified for HPL in Section 1408.10.2 is not required where:

    1. The HPL system is specifically approved based on tests conducted in accordance with NFPA 286, and with the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, or with UL 1040 or UL 1715. Such testing shall be performed with the HPL in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use. The HPL system shall include seams, joints and other typical details used in the installation and shall be tested in the manner intended for use.

    2. The HPL is used as elements of balconies and similar projections, architectural trim or embellishments.

    1408.10.4 Full-scale tests. The HPL system shall be tested in accordance with, and comply with, the acceptance criteria of NFPA 285. Such testing shall be performed on the HPL system with the HPL in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use.

    1408.11 Alternate conditions. HPL and HPL systems shall not be required to comply with Sections 1408.10.1 through 1408.10.4 provided that such systems comply with Section 1408.11.1.

    1408.11.1 Installations up to 40 feet in height. HPL shall be permitted to be installed up to 40 feet (12 190 mm) in height above grade plane where installed in accordance with Section 1408.11.1.1 or 1408.11.1.2.

    1408.11.1.1 Fire separation distance of 5 feet or less. Where the fire separation distance is 5 feet (1524 mm) or less, the area of HPL shall not exceed 10 percent of the exterior wall surface.

    1408.11.1.2 Fire separation distance greater than 5 feet. Where the fire separation distance is greater than 5 feet (1524 mm), the area of exterior wall surface coverage using HPL shall not be limited.

    1408.12 Type V construction. HPL shall be permitted to be installed on buildings of Type V construction.

    1408.13 Foam plastic insulation. HPL systems containing foam plastic insulation shall comply with the requirements of Section 2603.

    1408.14 Labeling. HPL shall be labeled in accordance with Section 1703.5.

    SECTION 1409—INSULATED METAL PANEL (IMP)

  • CBC § 3-27 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 3-27

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

    BUILDING PLANNING

    TABLE R302.6—DWELLING UNIT GARAGE AND/OR CARPORT SEPARATION Col2
    ** SEPARATION** ** MATERIAL**
    From the dwelling unit and attics Not less than1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the garage side
    From portions of the dwelling unit above the garage_or carport_ Not less than5/8-inch Type X gypsum board or equivalent
    Structure supporting floor/ceiling assemblies used for separation
    required by this section    		 Not less than1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent
    Garages located less than 3 feet from a dwelling unit on the same lot Not less than1/2-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the interior
    side of exterior walls that are within this area
    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

    R302.7 Under-stair protection. Enclosed space under stairs that is accessed by a door or access panel shall have walls, under-stair surface and any soffits protected on the enclosed side with [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.

    R302.8 Foam plastics. For requirements for foam plastics, see Section R303.

    R302.8.1 Interior finish. Foam plastics used as interior finishes shall comply with Section R303.5.10.

    R302.9 Flame spread index and smoke-developed index for wall and ceiling finishes. Flame spread and smoke-developed indices for wall and ceiling finishes shall be in accordance with Sections R302.9.1 through R302.9.4.

    R302.9.1 Flame spread index. Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a flame spread index of not greater than 200.

    Exception: Flame spread index requirements for finishes shall not apply to trim defined as picture molds, chair rails, baseboards and handrails; to doors and windows or their frames; or to materials that are less than [1] / 28 inch (0.91 mm) in thickness cemented to the surface of walls or ceilings if these materials exhibit flame spread index values not greater than those of paper of this thickness cemented to a noncombustible backing.

    R302.9.2 Smoke-developed index. Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a smoke-developed index of not greater than 450.

    R302.9.3 Testing. Tests shall be made in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

    R302.9.4 Alternative test method. As an alternative to having a flame spread index of not greater than 200 and a smoke-developed index of not greater than 450 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, wall and ceiling finishes shall be permitted to be tested in accordance with NFPA 286. Materials tested in accordance with NFPA 286 shall meet the following criteria:

    The interior finish shall comply with the following:

    1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not spread to the ceiling.
    2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity of the sample on any wall or ceiling.
    3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not occur.

Frequently asked questions

When can I use an ASTM E84 (room‑corner NFPA 286 alternative) test instead of NFPA 286?

ASTM E84/UL 723 is an alternate test method the CBC recognizes; use it when the product is being classified by flame spread index and smoke‑developed index. However, where the code or specific product section requires NFPA 286 (or you choose the NFPA 286 path), you must meet the five acceptance criteria in § 803.1.1.1. Materials meeting § 803.1.1.1 via NFPA 286 are treated as Class A under § 803.1.2 .

If a product passes NFPA 286 but with a peak HRR of 810 kW, is it code compliant?

No. § 803.1.1.1 requires the peak heat release rate not to exceed 800 kW. A peak HRR above 800 kW fails the CBC acceptance criteria even if other items passed (§ 803.1.1.1) .

Do small appliqué films or decals need NFPA 286 testing?

Materials less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) applied directly to walls or ceilings are exempt from testing (§ 803.2 / § 803.14). If the material is thicker or forms a system, the exemption may not apply and testing or classification is required (§ 803.2) .

For site‑installed veneers or facings, what must the test include?

The CBC requires facings or veneers applied on site to be tested “using the product mounting system, including adhesive, as described” in NFPA 286 (or meet ASTM E84 Class A/B/C per the alternative). In short, test the product as it will be installed (§ 803.12; § 5.9 of NFPA 286 referenced by the CBC) .

Does passing NFPA 286 automatically mean the product can be used without other limitations?

Passing NFPA 286 per § 803.1.1.1 makes the product acceptable as a Class A finish where Class A is required, but other CBC restrictions (foam plastic rules, location‑specific limits, area/sprinkler conditions, or assembly approvals) still apply — check the product‑specific sections and related chapters (for example, foam plastics, HPL/MCM/IMP provisions) (§ 803.4; § 803.11; § 1406–1409) .

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