CBC · California Building Code

What are the construction and protection requirements for exits

Exits must be dedicated, continuous, and protected paths to the outside. Interior exit stairways that serve as required exits must be enclosed in fire‑resistant construction (1 hour for fewer than 4 stories; 2 hours for four or more) and limit openings and penetrations; exterior exit stairs must provide prescribed open area and setbacks. The article cites the controlling CBC sections: §1022, §1023 and §1027.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Exits must form a continuous, dedicated, protected path from the point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge and may not be used for other functions (§1022.1) . Interior exit stairways and ramps used as exit components must be enclosed in fire‑resistant construction (fire barriers or equivalent horizontal assemblies) and meet minimum fire‑resistance ratings based on how many stories they connect (§1023.1–§1023.2) . Exterior exit stairways and ramps used as required exits have specific openness, location and separation requirements and must be separated from the building interior in the same manner as interior exit enclosures unless a listed exception applies (§1027.1–§1027.6) .

Requirements in detail

Continuity and use

  • Exits must be continuous from entry into the exit to the exit discharge and cannot have their level of protection reduced while in the exit (§1022.1) .
  • An exit shall not be used for purposes that interfere with its egress function (e.g., storage, mechanical rooms) (§1022.1) .

Exterior exit doors and discharge

  • Buildings must have at least one exterior door that meets the door requirements in §1010.1.1; exterior exit doors must lead directly to the exit discharge or public way (§1022.2–§1022.2.2) .

Interior exit stairways and ramps — enclosure, rating, openings, penetrations

Key principles:

  • Interior exit stairways and ramps serving as exits must be enclosed and lead directly to the exterior or be extended by an exit passageway (§1023.1) .
  • Enclosures must be constructed as fire barriers (see §707) or horizontal assemblies (see §711) and have minimum fire‑resistance ratings tied to the number of stories connected (§1023.2) .
  • Openings into these enclosures are restricted and opening protectives must meet §716 (§1023.4) .
  • Penetrations are prohibited except for a short, specific list (ventilation equipment, fire protection systems, security/two‑way comms, limited electrical raceways, structural elements, etc.); permitted penetrations must be protected per §714 (§1023.5) .
  • Ventilation for the enclosure must be independent and follow the methods listed in §1023.6 (§1023.6) .
  • Exterior walls adjacent to an interior exit enclosure have additional rating and opening protection requirements when nonrated walls or unprotected openings exist (§1023.7 & §1023.7.1) .
  • Internal stairways must terminate at an exit discharge or public way; they may be extended by properly separated exit passageways (§1023.3–§1023.3.1) .

Smokeproof enclosures and high‑rise requirements

  • Where §1023.12 applies (e.g., certain high‑rise and other specific conditions), smokeproof enclosures have additional termination, extension and vestibule/open balcony access rules and require 2‑hour separation where indicated (§1023.12.1–§1023.12.2) . (See also the related smokeproof provisions in §909.20.)

Exterior exit stairways and ramps — openness, location, separation

  • Exterior exit stairways and ramps used as required exits must be open on at least one side; that open side must provide at least 35 sq ft of aggregate open area adjacent to each floor/landing and that opening area must be at least 42 inches above the floor/landing (§1027.3) .
  • They must have minimum fire separation distances (10 ft measured at right angles) to adjacent lot lines, other building portions, or other buildings on the lot (exceptions for R‑3 individual dwellings reduce this to 5 ft) (§1027.5) .
  • Exterior exit stairs/ramps must be separated from the interior in the same manner required for interior exit stairway/ramp enclosures (§1027.6) .

Exit passageways (where they extend or connect exits)

  • Exit passageways used to extend an exit must be constructed as fire barriers/horizontal assemblies and meet minimum widths and capacities; minimum clear width is generally 44 inches (36 inches for occupant load < 50) and opening protectives are per §716 (§1024.2–§1024.5) .

Decision‑relevant dimensions and values

Decision factor Code value / threshold Code reference
Continuity of exit Exit must be continuous from point of entry into the exit to exit discharge §1022.1
Minimum exterior passageway width 44 in normally; 36 in if serving occupant load < 50 §1024.2
Interior exit enclosure fire‑resistance ≥2 hours if connecting 4 or more stories; ≥1 hour if connecting less than 4 stories; rating ≥ floor assembly penetrated but need not exceed 2 hours §1023.2
Penetrations allowed into exit enclosure Limited list (ventilation, fire protection, security, comms, small electrical raceway, structural elements); must be protected per §714 §1023.5; §714 referenced
Exterior stair open area ≥35 sq ft aggregate adjacent to each floor/landing; opening located ≥42 in above floor/landing §1027.3
Exterior stair separation distance 10 ft minimum from edge to lot lines/other building portions (5 ft exception for some R‑3) §1027.5
Smokeproof enclosure separation Exit passageway separation and 2‑hour barrier requirements where smokeproof enclosure required §1023.12.1; §909.20

Exceptions & special cases

  • Group I‑2: exterior exit stairways are not permitted as required exits for Group I‑2 occupancies; other Group‑specific allowances are referenced elsewhere (§1027.2; see applicable Group I‑2 sections) .
  • High‑rise / smokeproof: where smokeproof enclosures are required (high‑rise and select other conditions), the enclosure must meet the separate smokeproof construction and termination rules (§1023.12 and §909.20) .
  • Exterior exit stairway separation exceptions: under limited conditions (low‑rise buildings, R‑3 dwelling unit stairs that discharge to grade, or interconnected open exterior ramps/balconies that meet openness criteria), the required separation from the interior may be relaxed — see the numbered exceptions in §1027.6 (§1027.6 Exceptions) .
  • Extension by exit passageway: interior stairways may be extended to exit discharge by an exit passageway only when the separation and fire‑door requirements of §1023.3.1 are met (§1023.3.1) .

If a particular occupancy (e.g., atriums, fixed guideway transit, Groups I‑2/I‑3, high‑rise) is involved, the code often contains separate cross‑references and exceptions — consult the cited sections for the occupancy in question as noted in §1023 and §1027 .

Common mistakes

  • Treating an exit as a general circulation space (storage, HVAC rooms, work areas) — the code explicitly forbids any use that interferes with egress (§1022.1) .
  • Assuming interior stair enclosures can be downgraded mid‑route — protection level must not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge (§1022.1) .
  • Allowing elevators to open into interior exit stairways or ramps — elevators shall not open into interior exit stairways/ramps (§1023.4) .
  • Unauthorized penetrations or unprotected ductwork in stair enclosures — penetrations are tightly limited and must be protected per §714 (§1023.5) .
  • Forgetting the exterior‑wall rating requirement near nonrated stair enclosure walls — exterior walls within 10 ft may require 1‑hour rating and 3/4‑hour opening protectives (§1023.7.1) .
  • Misapplying minimum open area for exterior stairs — the 35 sq ft per floor/landing and 42‑in mounting requirements in §1027.3 are commonly overlooked in design reviews (§1027.3) .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Project: five‑story office building with an interior exit stairway that connects all levels and terminates at grade.

Apply the code:

  • Because the interior exit stairway connects five stories (four or more), the enclosure must be a minimum 2‑hour fire‑resistance rated enclosure (constructed as a fire barrier per §707 or equivalent horizontal assembly) — see §1023.2 (§1023.2) .
  • The stairway must be enclosed, not used for other purposes, and must terminate at the exit discharge (grade/public way) (§1023.1; §1023.3) .
  • Any openings from the stair enclosure to the building must be limited and protected by opening protectives complying with §716 (§1023.4) .
  • If an exit passageway is used to extend the stair to the public way, the passageway must be separated from the stair enclosure by a fire barrier of not less than the stair’s rating and must include a fire door assembly per §1023.3.1 (§1023.3.1) .
  • If providing an exterior exit stair as an alternative, ensure 35 sq ft aggregate open area adjacent to each landing and at least 42 in height above the landing, and a 10‑ft fire separation from other building portions per §1027.3 and §1027.5 (§1027.3; §1027.5) .

Related provisions (quick reference)

  • §1003–§1015 — General means of egress requirements and components (applies to exits)
  • §1010.1 / §1010.1.1 — Exterior door requirements referenced by §1022.2
  • §1024 — Exit passageways (width, construction, termination)
  • §1025 — Luminous egress path markings (high‑rise / special cases)
  • §707 — Fire barriers (construction method referenced by §1023.2)
  • §711 — Horizontal assemblies (alternative construction referenced in §1023.2)
  • §716 — Opening protectives (fire door/window ratings and requirements)
  • §714 — Firestopping/penetration protection (required for permitted penetrations in stair enclosures)
  • §909.20 — Smokeproof enclosures (construction and vestibule details) where §1023.12 applies

Code references

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

  • CBC § 1021.4 High relevance — show source text

    1021.4 Location. Exterior egress balconies shall have a minimum fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the egress balcony to the following:

    1. Adjacent lot lines.
    2. Other portions of the building.
    3. Other buildings on the same lot unless the adjacent building exterior walls and openings are protected in accordance with Section 705 based on fire separation distance.

    For the purposes of this section, other portions of the building shall be treated as separate buildings.

    SECTION 1022—EXITS

    1022.1 General. Exits shall comply with Sections 1022 through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015. An exit shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once a given level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. Exits shall be continuous from the point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge.

    1022.2 Exterior exit doors. Buildings or structures used for human occupancy shall have not less than one exterior door that meets the requirements of Section 1010.1.1.

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    1022.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1010.1.

    1022.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way.

    1022.3 Basement exits in Group I-2 occupancies. For additional requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Section 407.4.1.2.

    SECTION 1023—INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS

    1023.1 General. Interior exit stairways and ramps serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed and lead directly to the exterior of the building or shall be extended to the exterior of the building with an exit passageway conforming to the requirements of Section 1024, except as permitted in Section 1028.2. An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path.

    1023.2 Construction. Enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Interior exit stairway and ramp enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where connecting four stories or more and not less than 1 hour where connecting less than four stories. The number of stories connected by the interior exit stairways or ramps shall include any basements, but not any mezzanines. Enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than the floor assembly penetrated, but need not exceed 2 hours.

  • CBC § 1021.2 High relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1021.2 Wall separation. Exterior egress balconies shall be separated from the interior of the building by walls and opening protectives as required for corridors.

    Exception: Separation is not required where the exterior egress balcony is served by not less than two stairways and a dead-end travel condition does not require travel past an unprotected opening to reach a stairway.

    [BE] 1021.3 Openness. The long side of an egress balcony shall be not less than 50 percent open, and the open area above the guards shall be so distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.

    [BE] 1021.4 Location. Exterior egress balconies shall have a minimum fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the egress balcony to the following:

    1. Adjacent lot lines.
    2. Other portions of the building.
    3. Other buildings on the same lot unless the adjacent building exterior walls and openings are protected in accordance with Section 705 of the California Building Code based on fire separation distance.

    For the purposes of this section, other portions of the building shall be treated as separate buildings.

    SECTION 1022—EXITS

    [BE] 1022.1 General. Exits shall comply with Sections 1022 through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015. An exit shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once a given level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. Exits shall be continuous from the point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge.

    [BE] 1022.2 Exterior exit doors. Buildings or structures used for human occupancy shall have not less than one exterior door that meets the requirements of Section 1010.1.1.

    [BE] 1022.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1010.1.

    [BE] 1022.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way.

    1022.3 Basement exits in Group I-2 occupancies. For additional requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Section 407.4.1.2 of the California Building Code.

    SECTION 1023—INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS

    [BE] 1023.1 General. Interior exit stairways and ramps serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed and lead directly to the exterior of the building or shall be extended to the exterior of the building with an exit passageway conforming to the requirements of Section 1024, except as permitted in Section 1028.2. An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path.

  • CBC § 1020.7 High relevance — show source text

    1020.7 Corridor continuity. Fire-resistance-rated corridors shall be continuous from the point of entry to an exit, and shall not be interrupted by intervening rooms. Where the path of egress travel within a fire-resistance-rated corridor to the exit includes travel along unenclosed exit access stairways or ramps, the fire-resistance rating shall be continuous for the length of the stairway or ramp and for the length of the connecting corridor on the adjacent floor leading to the exit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Foyers, lobbies or reception rooms constructed as required for corridors shall not be construed as intervening rooms.
    2. Enclosed elevator lobbies as permitted by Item 1 of Section 1016.2 shall not be construed as intervening rooms. 3. [SFM] In fully sprinklered office buildings, corridors may lead through enclosed elevator lobbies if all areas of the building have access to at least one required exit without passing through the elevator lobby.

    SECTION 1021—EGRESS BALCONIES

    1021.1 General. Balconies used for egress purposes shall conform to the same requirements as corridors for minimum width, required capacity, headroom, dead ends and projections.

    1021.2 Wall separation. Exterior egress balconies shall be separated from the interior of the building by walls and opening protectives as required for corridors.

    Exception: Separation is not required where the exterior egress balcony is served by not less than two stairways and a dead-end travel condition does not require travel past an unprotected opening to reach a stairway.

    1021.3 Openness. The long side of an egress balcony shall be not less than 50 percent open, and the open area above the guards shall be so distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.

    1021.4 Location. Exterior egress balconies shall have a minimum fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the egress balcony to the following:

    1. Adjacent lot lines.
    2. Other portions of the building.
    3. Other buildings on the same lot unless the adjacent building exterior walls and openings are protected in accordance with Section 705 based on fire separation distance.

    For the purposes of this section, other portions of the building shall be treated as separate buildings.

    SECTION 1022—EXITS

    1022.1 General. Exits shall comply with Sections 1022 through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015. An exit shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once a given level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. Exits shall be continuous from the point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge.

    1022.2 Exterior exit doors. Buildings or structures used for human occupancy shall have not less than one exterior door that meets the requirements of Section 1010.1.1.

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    1022.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1010.1.

    1022.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way.

  • CBC § 1020.7 High relevance — show source text
    1. The air-handling system serving the corridor is shut down upon detection of sprinkler water flow where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
    2. The space between the corridor ceiling and the floor or roof structure above the corridor is used as a component of an approved engineered smoke control system.

    [BE] 1020.7 Corridor continuity. Fire-resistance-rated corridors shall be continuous from the point of entry to an exit, and shall not be interrupted by intervening rooms. Where the path of egress travel within a fire-resistance-rated corridor to the exit includes travel

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    along unenclosed exit access stairways or ramps, the fire-resistance-rating shall be continuous for the length of the stairway or ramp and for the length of the connecting corridor on the adjacent floor leading to the exit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Foyers, lobbies or reception rooms constructed as required for corridors shall not be construed as intervening rooms.
    2. Enclosed elevator lobbies as permitted by Item 1 of Section 1016.2 shall not be construed as intervening rooms. 3. [SFM] In fully sprinklered office buildings, corridors may lead through enclosed elevator lobbies if all areas of the building have access to at least one required exit without passing through the elevator lobby.

    SECTION 1021—EGRESS BALCONIES

    [BE] 1021.1 General. Balconies used for egress purposes shall conform to the same requirements as corridors for minimum width, required capacity, headroom, dead ends and projections.

    [BE] 1021.2 Wall separation. Exterior egress balconies shall be separated from the interior of the building by walls and opening protectives as required for corridors.

    Exception: Separation is not required where the exterior egress balcony is served by not less than two stairways and a dead-end travel condition does not require travel past an unprotected opening to reach a stairway.

    [BE] 1021.3 Openness. The long side of an egress balcony shall be not less than 50 percent open, and the open area above the guards shall be so distributed as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.

    [BE] 1021.4 Location. Exterior egress balconies shall have a minimum fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) measured at right angles from the exterior edge of the egress balcony to the following:

    1. Adjacent lot lines.
    2. Other portions of the building.
    3. Other buildings on the same lot unless the adjacent building exterior walls and openings are protected in accordance with Section 705 of the California Building Code based on fire separation distance.

    For the purposes of this section, other portions of the building shall be treated as separate buildings.

    SECTION 1022—EXITS

    [BE] 1022.1 General. Exits shall comply with Sections 1022 through 1027 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015. An exit shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with its function as a means of egress. Once a given level of exit protection is achieved, such level of protection shall not be reduced until arrival at the exit discharge. Exits shall be continuous from the point of entry into the exit to the exit discharge.

  • CBC § 10-36 High relevance — show source text

    1014 Handrails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36

    1015 Guards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-37

    1016 Exit Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-39

    1017 Exit Access Travel Distance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40

    1018 Aisles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41

    1019 Exit Access Stairways and Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42

    1020 Corridors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42

    1021 Egress Balconies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44

    1022 Exits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44

    1023 Interior Exit Stairways and Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-45

    1024 Exit Passageways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-47

    1025 Luminous Egress Path Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-48

    1026 Horizontal Exits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-49

    1027 Exterior Exit Stairways and Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50

    1028 Exit Discharge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51

    1029 Egress Courts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52

    1030 Assembly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52

    1031 Emergency Escape and Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59

    CHAPTER 11 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

    CHAPTER 11A HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11A-1

  • CBC § 1001.1 High relevance — show source text

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    10 MEANS OF EGRESS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 10 provides the general criteria for designing the means of egress established as the primary method for protection of people in buildings by allowing timely relocation or evacuation of building occupants. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized in this chapter to provide for a basic approach in the determination of a safe exiting system for all occupancies. It addresses all portions of the egress system (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. Functional and operational characteristics that will permit the safe use of components without special knowledge or effort are specified.

    The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7), interior finish (see Chapter 8), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 is subdivided into four main sections: general (Sections 1003–1015), exit access (Sections 1016–1021), exit (Sections 1022–1027) and exit discharge (Sections 1028–1029). Special allowances for the unique requirements for assembly spaces (Section 1030) and emergency escape and rescue openings (Section 1031) complete the chapter. Chapter 10 of this code is duplicated in Chapter 10 the California Fire Code; however, the California Fire Code contains one additional section on maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.

    SECTION 1001—ADMINISTRATION

    1001.1 General. Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and arrangement of means of egress components required to provide an approved means of egress from structures and portions thereof.

    1001.2 Minimum requirements. It shall be unlawful to alter a building or structure in a manner that will reduce the number of exits or the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress to less than required by this code.

    SECTION 1002—MAINTENANCE AND PLANS

    [F] 1002.1 Maintenance. Means of egress shall be maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    [F] 1002.2 Fire safety and evacuation plans. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be provided for all occupancies and buildings where required by the California Fire Code . Such fire safety and evacuation plans shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 401.2 and 404 of the California Fire Code .

    SECTION 1003—GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS

    1003.1 Applicability. The general requirements specified in Sections 1003 through 1015 shall apply to all three elements of the means of egress system, in addition to those specific requirements for the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge detailed elsewhere in this chapter.

  • CFC § 1207 High 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 § 1023.9.1 High relevance — show source text

    9
    (2nd paragraph only)|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |1023.9.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1023.11||||||X||||||||||||||||||| |1024.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1026.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1026.4.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1026.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1028.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1029.3.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1029.9.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.6.3.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.9|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with 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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    10 MEANS OF EGRESS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 10 provides the general criteria for designing the means of egress established as the primary method for protection of people in buildings by allowing timely relocation or evacuation of building occupants. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized in this chapter to provide for a basic approach in the determination of a safe exiting system for all occupancies. It addresses all portions of the egress system (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. Functional and operational characteristics that will permit the safe use of components without special knowledge or effort are specified.

    The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7), interior finish (see Chapter 8), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 is subdivided into four main sections: general (Sections 1003–1015), exit access (Sections 1016–1021), exit (Sections 1022–1027) and exit discharge (Sections 1028–1029). Special allowances for the unique requirements for assembly spaces (Section 1030) and emergency escape and rescue openings (Section 1031) complete the chapter. Chapter 10 of this code is duplicated in Chapter 10 the California Fire Code; however, the California Fire Code contains one additional section on maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.

    SECTION 1001—ADMINISTRATION

  • CBC § 104.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    Alteration D103.1 Change of occupancy D103.2 Flood-resistant 104.3.1, Appendix G Historic 101.4.7

    Relocated structures D103.3

    Repairs 101.4.7, 116.5 Rodentproofing Appendix F Exit (see Means of Egress) 1022, 1023, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1027 Atrium 404.10, 1023.2 Boiler room 1006.2.1.1 Configuration 1007 Construction 713.2, 1019, 1023.2 Doorways 1007 Dwellings 1006.2.2.6, 1006.3.4.1 Electrical rooms 1006.2.2.4

    Enclosure 707.3.2, 1023.2 Fire resistance 707.3, 1019, 1023.2

    Furnace rooms 1006.2.2.1

    Group H-5 415.11.6.6 High rise 403.5, 403.6, 1025 Horizontal 707.3.5, 1026 Incinerator rooms 1006.2.2.1

    Interior finish Table 803.13, 804 Luminous 403.5.5, 411.4.1, 1008.2.1, 1013.5, 1025 Mall buildings 402.8 Number, minimum 402.8.3, 403.5,

    1006

    Occupant load 402.8.2, 1004.2, 1006.3.2

    Passageway 707.3.4, 1024 Ramps, exterior 1027 Ramps, interior 1023 Refrigerated room 1006.2.2.2, 1006.2.2.3 Refuge area 407.5.3, 408.6.2, 420.6.1, 422.3.2

    Stairways, exterior 1027 Stairways, interior 1023 Stories 1004.2.3, 1006.3, 1017.3.1 Travel distance 404.9, 407.5.2, 410.5.3.2, 412.6 Underground buildings 405.7 Exit Access (see Means of Egress) 1016, 1017, 1018, 1019, 1020, 1021 Aircraft related 412.2.2, 412.4.2,

    412.7.3

    Aisles 1018 Ambulatory care facilities 422.3 Atrium 404.10, 404.11, 404.9, 1006.3.2, 1017.3.2, 1019.3 Balconies 1017.2.1, 1021 Common path 1006.2.1 Corridors 1020

    Doors 1005.7, 1006.2, 1007, 1010,

    1022.2

    Group H 415.11.3.3 Group I-2 407.4, 407.5.4 Group I-3 408.2, 408.3, 408.6.3 High rise 403.5 Higher education laboratories 428.3.5 Intervening space 1016.2 Malls 402.8

  • CFC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text

    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), interior finish (see Chapter 8), 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 Reserved.

    Chapter 11A Housing Accessibility. Chapter 11B Accessibility to Public Buildings, Public Accommodations, Commercial Buildings and Public Housing.

    Verify compliance with accessibility provisions. In order to be considered as accessible, buildings and their individual elements must comply with the applicable scoping and technical provisions of Chapter 11A and/or Chapter 11B.

    Chapter 12 Interior Environment.

    Chapter 12 provides minimum standards for the interior environment of a building. The standards address the minimum sizes of spaces, as well as minimums for temperature, light and ventilation. Concerns for sound transmission and acoustics are addressed. Finally, the chapter provides minimum standards for toilet and bathroom construction.

    Chapter 13 Energy Efficiency.

    Chapter 13 is not adopted in California. Refer to California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6.

    Chapter 14 Exterior Walls.

    Chapter 14 addresses requirements for exterior walls of buildings. Minimum standards for wall covering materials, installation of wall coverings and the ability of the wall to provide weather protection are provided.

    Chapter 15 Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures.

    Chapter 15 provides standards for both roof assemblies and structures that sit on top of the roofs of buildings. The criteria address roof construction and covering, including the weather-protective barrier at the roof and, in most circumstances, a fire-resistant barrier.

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    Chapter 16 Structural Design.

    Chapter 16 prescribes minimum structural loading requirements for use in the design and construction of buildings and structural components. The chapter references and relies on many nationally recognized design standards, including the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7).

    Chapter 16A Structural Design.

  • CFC § 1203 Medium 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

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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 § 1002.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Evacuation plans 1002.2 Existing buildings 3310 Exit (see Exit) 1022, 1027 Exit access (see Exit Access) 1016, 1021 Exit discharge (see Exit Discharge) 1028 Exit enclosures 1023.2

    Exit passageway 1024 Exit signs 1013, 2702.2 Fire escapes 412.7.3 Fire safety plans 1002.2 Floor surface 804, 1003.4 Gates 1010.4

    Group I-2 407.2, 407.3, 407.4, 1019.4 Group I-3 408.2, 408.3, 408.4, 408.6, 408.8, 1019.4 Guards 1015

    Handrails 1014

    Hazardous materials 414.6.1.2, 415.11.2, 415.11.6.6 Headroom 1003.2, 1003.3 Heliports, Helistops 412.7.3 High-hazard Group H 415.11.2 High-rise 403.5, 403.6 Illumination 1008, 2702.2 Interior finish 803.13, 804 Ladders (see Ladders) Live loads Table 1607.1

    Live/work units 508.5.3 Mezzanines 505.2.2, 505.2.3, 1004.2.2,

    1009.1 Moving walk 1003.7 Number 1001.2, 1006 Occupant load 1004 Parking 406.5.7 Protruding objects 1003.3, 1005.7 Ramps 1012, 1019, 1027 Scoping 101.3, 108.2, 1001.1 Seating, fixed 1009.1, 1030 Special amusement areas 411.4 Stages 410.2.3, 410.5 Stairways 403.5, 404.6, 1005.3.1, 1011, 1019, 1023, 1027 Temporary structures 3103.4 Travel distance (see Travel Distance) 1006.2.1,

    1017

    Turnstile 1010.5

    Underground buildings 405.5.1, 405.7 Width 1005.1, 1005.2, 1005.4, 1011.2, 1012.5.1, 1020.3, 1030.6, 1030.8 Mechanical (see Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration and Ventilation) 101.4.2 Access 1011.12, 1208.4 Air transfer openings 705.11, 706.11, 707.10, 708.9, 709.8, 712.1.6, 713.10, 714.1.1, 717 Chimneys (see Chimneys) Code Chapter 28 Disconnected 3303.6

  • CBC § 1022.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1022.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1010.1.

    1022.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way.

    1022.3 Basement exits in Group I-2 occupancies. For additional requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Section 407.4.1.2.

    SECTION 1023—INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS

    1023.1 General. Interior exit stairways and ramps serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed and lead directly to the exterior of the building or shall be extended to the exterior of the building with an exit passageway conforming to the requirements of Section 1024, except as permitted in Section 1028.2. An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path.

    1023.2 Construction. Enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Interior exit stairway and ramp enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where connecting four stories or more and not less than 1 hour where connecting less than four stories. The number of stories connected by the interior exit stairways or ramps shall include any basements, but not any mezzanines. Enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than the floor assembly penetrated, but need not exceed 2 hours.

    Exceptions:

    1. Interior exit stairways and ramps in Group I-3 occupancies in accordance with the provisions of Section 408.3.8 of the California Building Code.
    2. Interior exit stairways within an atrium enclosed in accordance with Section 404.6 of the California Building Code .
    3. Interior exit stairways in accordance with Section 510.2. 4. Fixed guideway transit stations, constructed in accordance with Section 443.

    1023.3 Termination. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall terminate at an exit discharge or a public way.

    Exception: A combination of interior exit stairways, interior exit ramps and exit passageways, constructed in accordance with Sections 1023.2, 1023.3.1 and 1024, respectively, and forming a continuous protected enclosure, shall be permitted to extend an interior exit stairway or ramp to the exit discharge or a public way.

    1023.3.1 Extension. Where interior exit stairways and ramps are extended to an exit discharge or a public way by an exit passageway, the interior exit stairway and ramp shall be separated from the exit passageway by a fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 or a horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating shall be not less than that required for the interior exit stairway and ramp. A fire door assembly complying with Section 716 shall be installed in the fire barrier to provide a means of egress from the interior exit stairway and ramp to the exit passageway. Openings in the fire barrier other than the fire door assembly are prohibited. Penetrations of the fire barrier are prohibited.

    Exceptions:

  • CBC § 1022.2 High relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1022.2 Exterior exit doors. Buildings or structures used for human occupancy shall have not less than one exterior door that meets the requirements of Section 1010.1.1.

    [BE] 1022.2.1 Detailed requirements. Exterior exit doors shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1010.1.

    [BE] 1022.2.2 Arrangement. Exterior exit doors shall lead directly to the exit discharge or the public way.

    1022.3 Basement exits in Group I-2 occupancies. For additional requirements for occupancies in Group I-2, see Section 407.4.1.2 of the California Building Code.

    SECTION 1023—INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS

    [BE] 1023.1 General. Interior exit stairways and ramps serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall be enclosed and lead directly to the exterior of the building or shall be extended to the exterior of the building with an exit passageway conforming to the requirements of Section 1024, except as permitted in Section 1028.2. An interior exit stairway or ramp shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path.

    [BE] 1023.2 Construction. Enclosures for interior exit stairways and ramps shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both. Interior exit stairway and ramp enclosures shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours where connecting four stories or more and not less than 1 hour where connecting less than four stories. The number of stories connected by the interior exit stairways or ramps shall include any basements, but not any mezzanines. Enclosure for interior exit stairways and ramps shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than the floor assembly penetrated, but need not exceed 2 hours.

    Exceptions:

    1. Interior exit stairways and ramps in Group I-3 occupancies in accordance with the provisions of Section 408.3.8 of the California Building Code .
    2. Interior exit stairways within an atrium enclosed in accordance with Section 404.6 of the California Building Code .
    3. Interior exit stairways in accordance with Section 510.2 of the California Building Code . 4. Fixed guideway transit stations, constructed in accordance with Section 443 of the California Building Code.

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    [BE] 1023.3 Termination. Interior exit stairways and ramps shall terminate at an exit discharge or a public way.

    Exception: A combination of interior exit stairways, interior exit ramps and exit passageways, constructed in accordance with Sections 1023.2, 1023.3.1 and 1024, respectively, and forming a continuous protected enclosure, shall be permitted to extend an interior exit stairway or ramp to the exit discharge or a public way.

    **[BE] 1023.3.1 Extension.

  • CBC § 1023.12.1 High relevance — show source text

    1023.12.1 Termination and extension. A smokeproof enclosure shall terminate at an exit discharge or a public way. The smokeproof enclosure shall be permitted to be extended by an exit passageway in accordance with Section 1023.3. The exit passageway shall be without openings other than the fire door assembly required by Section 1023.3.1 and those necessary for egress from the exit passageway. The exit passageway shall be separated from the remainder of the building by 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    Exceptions:

    1. Openings in the exit passageway serving a smokeproof enclosure are permitted where the exit passageway is protected and pressurized in the same manner as the smokeproof enclosure, and openings are protected as required for access from other floors.

    2. The fire barrier separating the smokeproof enclosure from the exit passageway is not required, provided that the exit passageway is protected and pressurized in the same manner as the smokeproof enclosure.

    3. A smokeproof enclosure shall be permitted to egress through areas on the level of exit discharge or vestibules as permitted by Section 1028.

    1023.12.2 Enclosure access. Access to the stairway or ramp within a smokeproof enclosure shall be by way of a vestibule or an open exterior balcony.

    1023.13 Standpipes. Standpipes and standpipe hose connections shall be provided where required by Sections 905.3 and 905.4.

    SECTION 1024—EXIT PASSAGEWAYS

    1024.1 General. Exit passageways serving as an exit component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. An exit passageway shall not be used for any purpose other than as a means of egress and a circulation path.

    1024.2 Width and capacity. The required capacity of exit passageways shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1 but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm), except that exit passageways serving an occupant load of less than 50 shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width. The minimum width or required capacity of exit passageways shall be unobstructed.

    Exception: Encroachments complying with Section 1005.7.

    The clear width of exit passageways in a Group I-2 occupancy used for the movement of beds and litters shall be 44-inch (1118) minimum.

    1024.3 Construction. Exit passageway enclosures shall have walls, floors and ceilings of not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating, and not less than that required for any connecting interior exit stairway or ramp. Exit passageways shall be constructed as fire barriers in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    1024.4 Termination. Exit passageways on the level of exit discharge shall terminate at an exit discharge. Exit passageways on other levels shall terminate at an exit.

    1024.5 Openings. Exit passageway opening protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 716.

    Except as permitted in Section 402.8.7, openings in exit passageways other than unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those necessary for exit access to the exit passageway from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the exit passageway.

  • CBC § 1023.5 High relevance — show source text
    1. Penetrations of the fire barrier in accordance with Section 1023.5 shall be permitted.
    2. Separation between an interior exit stairway or ramp and the exit passageway extension shall not be required where there are no openings into the exit passageway extension.
    3. Separation between an interior exit stairway or ramp and the exit passageway extension shall not be required where the interior exit stairway and the exit passageway extension are pressurized in accordance with Section 909.20.4.

    1023.4 Openings. Interior exit stairway and ramp opening protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 716.

    Openings in interior exit stairways and ramps other than unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those required for exit access to the enclosure from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the enclosure.

    Elevators shall not open into interior exit stairways and ramps.

    1023.5 Penetrations. Penetrations into or through interior exit stairways and ramps are prohibited except for the following:

    1. Equipment and ductwork necessary for independent ventilation or pressurization.

    2. Fire protection systems.

    3. Security systems.

    4. Two-way communication systems.

    5. Electrical raceway for fire department communication systems.

    6. Electrical raceway serving the interior exit stairway and ramp and terminating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m [2] ).

    7. Structural elements, such as beams or joists, supporting the interior exit stairway or ramp or enclosure.

    8. Structural elements, such as beams or joists, supporting a roof at the top of the interior exit stairway or ramp.

    Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714. There shall not be penetrations or communication openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent interior exit stairways and ramps.

    Exception: Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the outside of the interior exit stairway and ramp. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714.4.2.

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    1023.6 Ventilation. Equipment and ductwork for interior exit stairway and ramp ventilation as permitted by Section 1023.5 shall comply with one of the following items:

    1. Such equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and shall be directly connected to the interior exit stairway and ramp by ductwork enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
    2. Where such equipment and ductwork is located within the interior exit stairway and ramp, the intake air shall be taken directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the outdoors, or such air shall be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
    3. Where located within the building, such equipment and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, with construction as required for shafts.

    In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated construction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation and shall be protected by opening protectives in accordance with Section 716 for shaft enclosures.

    The interior exit stairway and ramp ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems.

  • CBC § 1023.7 High relevance — show source text

    In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated construction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation and shall be protected by opening protectives in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code for shaft enclosures.

    The interior exit stairway and ramp ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems.

    [BE] 1023.7 Interior exit stairway and ramp exterior walls. Exterior walls of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 of the California Building Code for exterior walls. Where nonrated walls or unprotected openings enclose the exterior of the stairway or ramps and the walls or openings are exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), building construction within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the exterior walls of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with Sections 1023.7.1 and 1023.7.2.

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    [BE] 1023.7.1 Building exterior walls. Building exterior walls within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected opening in an interior exit stairway or ramp shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. This construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the topmost landing of the stairway or ramp, or to the roof line, whichever is lower.

    [BE] 1023.7.2 Roof assemblies. Where the interior exit stairway or ramp extends above an adjacent roof of the same building, the adjacent roof assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and openings shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. The fire-resistance rating and opening protection shall extend horizontally not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the exterior wall of the stairway or ramp, or to the perimeter of the adjacent roof, whichever is less.

    Exceptions:

    1. The roof assembly need not be rated and openings in the roof need not be protected where they are adjacent to the penthouse of the stairway or ramp, unless otherwise required by this code.
    2. The adjacent roof assembly need not be rated and adjacent openings in the roof need not be protected where the exterior wall of the stairway or ramp has a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour and openings are protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour, extending not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the roof.

    [BE] 1023.8 Barriers at level of exit discharge. An interior exit stairway and ramp shall not continue below its level of exit discharge unless an approved barrier is provided at the level of exit discharge to prevent persons from unintentionally continuing into levels below. Directional exit signs shall be provided as specified in Section 1013.

  • CBC § 714.4.2. High relevance — show source text

    Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714. There shall not be penetrations or communication openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent interior exit stairways and ramps.

    Exception: Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the outside of the interior exit stairway and ramp. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714.4.2.

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    1023.6 Ventilation. Equipment and ductwork for interior exit stairway and ramp ventilation as permitted by Section 1023.5 shall comply with one of the following items:

    1. Such equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and shall be directly connected to the interior exit stairway and ramp by ductwork enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
    2. Where such equipment and ductwork is located within the interior exit stairway and ramp, the intake air shall be taken directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the outdoors, or such air shall be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
    3. Where located within the building, such equipment and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, with construction as required for shafts.

    In each case, openings into the fire-resistance-rated construction shall be limited to those needed for maintenance and operation and shall be protected by opening protectives in accordance with Section 716 for shaft enclosures.

    The interior exit stairway and ramp ventilation systems shall be independent of other building ventilation systems.

    1023.7 Interior exit stairway and ramp exterior walls. Exterior walls of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls. Where nonrated walls or unprotected openings enclose the exterior of the stairway or ramps and the walls or openings are exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), building construction within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the exterior walls of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with Sections 1023.7.1 and 1023.7.2.

    1023.7.1 Building exterior walls. Building exterior walls within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected opening in an interior exit stairway or ramp shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. This construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the topmost landing of the stairway or ramp, or to the roof line, whichever is lower.

    1023.7.2 Roof assemblies. Where the interior exit stairway or ramp extends above an adjacent roof of the same building, the adjacent roof assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and openings shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. The fire-resistance rating and opening protection shall extend horizontally not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the exterior wall of the stairway or ramp, or to the perimeter of the adjacent roof, whichever is less.

  • CBC § 1027.6 High relevance — show source text

    For the purposes of this section, other portions of the building shall be treated as separate buildings.

    Exception: Exterior exit stairways and ramps serving individual dwelling units of Group R-3 shall have a minimum fire separation distance of 5 feet (1525 mm).

    1027.6 Exterior exit stairway and ramp protection. Exterior exit stairways and ramps shall be separated from the interior of the building as required in Section 1023.2. Openings shall be limited to those necessary for egress from normally occupied spaces. Where

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    a vertical plane projecting from the edge of an exterior exit stairway or ramp and landings is exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), the exterior wall shall be rated in accordance with Section 1023.7.

    Exceptions:

    1. Separation from the interior of the building is not required for occupancies, other than those in Group R-1 or R-2, in buildings that are not more than two stories above grade plane where a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies is the first story above grade plane.
    2. Separation from the interior of the building is not required where the exterior exit stairway or ramp is served by an exterior exit ramp or balcony that connects two remote exterior exit stairways or other approved exits with a perimeter that is not less than 50 percent open. To be considered open, the opening shall be not less than 50 percent of the height of the enclosing wall, with the top of the openings not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the top of the balcony.
    3. Separation from the open-ended corridor of the building is not required for exterior exit stairways or ramps, provided that Items 3.1 through 3.5 are met: 3.1. The building, including open-ended corridors, and stairways and ramps, shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 3.2. The open-ended corridors comply with Section 1020. 3.3. The open-ended corridors are connected on each end to an exterior exit stairway or ramp complying with Section 1027.

    3.4. The exterior walls and openings adjacent to the exterior exit stairway or ramp comply with Section 1023.7. 3.5. At any location in an open-ended corridor where a change of direction exceeding 45 degrees (0.79 rad) occurs, a clear opening of not less than 35 square feet (3.3 m [2] ) or an exterior stairway or ramp shall be provided. Where clear openings are provided, they shall be located so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases. 4. In Group R-3 occupancies not more than four stories in height, exterior exit stairways and ramps serving individual dwelling units are not required to be separated from the interior of the building where the exterior exit stairway or ramp discharges directly to grade.

    SECTION 1028—EXIT DISCHARGE

    1028.1 General. The exit discharge shall comply with Sections 1028 and 1029 and the applicable requirements of Sections 1003 through 1015.

  • CBC § 1023.7 High relevance — show source text

    1023.7 Interior exit stairway and ramp exterior walls. Exterior walls of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with the requirements of Section 705 for exterior walls. Where nonrated walls or unprotected openings enclose the exterior of the stairway or ramps and the walls or openings are exposed by other parts of the building at an angle of less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad), building construction within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the exterior walls of the interior exit stairway or ramp shall comply with Sections 1023.7.1 and 1023.7.2.

    1023.7.1 Building exterior walls. Building exterior walls within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of a nonrated wall or unprotected opening in an interior exit stairway or ramp shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. This construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point 10 feet (3048 mm) above the topmost landing of the stairway or ramp, or to the roof line, whichever is lower.

    1023.7.2 Roof assemblies. Where the interior exit stairway or ramp extends above an adjacent roof of the same building, the adjacent roof assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour and openings shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. The fire-resistance rating and opening protection shall extend horizontally not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the exterior wall of the stairway or ramp, or to the perimeter of the adjacent roof, whichever is less.

    Exceptions:

    1. The roof assembly need not be rated and openings in the roof need not be protected where they are adjacent to the penthouse of the stairway or ramp, unless otherwise required by this code.
    2. The adjacent roof assembly need not be rated and adjacent openings in the roof need not be protected where the exterior wall of the stairway or ramp has a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour and openings are protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour, extending not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the roof.

    1023.8 Barrier at level of exit discharge. An interior exit stairway and ramp shall not continue below its level of exit discharge unless an approved barrier is provided at the level of exit discharge to prevent persons from unintentionally continuing into levels below. Directional exit signs shall be provided as specified in Section 1013.

    1023.9 Stairway identification signs. A sign shall be provided at each floor landing in an interior exit stairway and ramp connecting more than three stories designating the floor level, the terminus of the top and bottom of the interior exit stairway and ramp and the identification of the stairway or ramp. The signage shall state the story of and direction to the exit discharge, and the availability of roof access from the interior exit stairway and ramp for the fire department. The bottom of the sign shall be located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) above the floor landing in a position that is readily visible when the doors are in the open and closed positions.

  • CBC § 1023.5 High relevance — show source text

    The fire-resistance rating shall be not less than that required for the interior exit stairway and ramp. A fire door assembly complying with Section 716 of the California Building Code shall be installed in the fire barrier to provide a means of egress from the interior exit stairway and ramp to the exit passageway. Openings in the fire barrier other than the fire door assembly are prohibited. Penetrations of the fire barrier are prohibited.

    Exceptions:

    1. Penetrations of the fire barrier in accordance with Section 1023.5 shall be permitted.
    2. Separation between an interior exit stairway or ramp and the exit passageway extension shall not be required where there are no openings into the exit passageway extension.
    3. Separation between an interior exit stairway or ramp and the exit passageway extension shall not be required where the interior exit stairway and the exit passageway extension are pressurized in accordance with Section 909.20.4 of the California Building Code .

    [BE] 1023.4 Openings. Interior exit stairway and ramp opening protectives shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 716 of the California Building Code .

    Openings in interior exit stairways and ramps other than unprotected exterior openings shall be limited to those required for exit access to the enclosure from normally occupied spaces and for egress from the enclosure.

    Elevators shall not open into interior exit stairways and ramps.

    [BE] 1023.5 Penetrations. Penetrations into or through interior exit stairways and ramps are prohibited except for the following:

    1. Equipment and ductwork necessary for independent ventilation or pressurization.

    2. Fire protection systems.

    3. Security systems.

    4. Two-way communication systems.

    5. Electrical raceway for fire department communication systems.

    6. Electrical raceway serving the interior exit stairway and ramp and terminating at a steel box not exceeding 16 square inches (0.010 m [2] ).

    7. Structural elements, such as beams or joists, supporting the interior exit stairway or ramp or enclosure.

    8. Structural elements, such as beams or joists, supporting a roof at the top of the interior exit stairway or ramp.

    Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714 of the California Building Code . There shall not be penetrations or communication openings, whether protected or not, between adjacent interior exit stairways and ramps.

    Exception: Membrane penetrations shall be permitted on the outside of the interior exit stairway and ramp. Such penetrations shall be protected in accordance with Section 714.4.2 of the California Building Code .

    [BE] 1023.6 Ventilation. Equipment and ductwork for interior exit stairway and ramp ventilation as permitted by Section 1023.5 shall comply with one of the following items:

    1. Such equipment and ductwork shall be located exterior to the building and shall be directly connected to the interior exit stairway and ramp by ductwork enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
    2. Where such equipment and ductwork is located within the interior exit stairway and ramp, the intake air shall be taken directly from the outdoors and the exhaust air shall be discharged directly to the outdoors, or such air shall be conveyed through ducts enclosed in construction as required for shafts.
    3. Where located within the building, such equipment and ductwork shall be separated from the remainder of the building, including other mechanical equipment, with construction as required for shafts.
  • CBC § 909.20 High relevance — show source text

    909.20 Smokeproof enclosures. Where required by Section 1023.12, a smokeproof enclosure shall be constructed in accordance with this section. A smokeproof enclosure shall consist of an interior exit stairway or ramp that is enclosed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section 1023 and an open exterior balcony or pressurized stair and pressurized entrance vestibule meeting the requirements of this section. Where access to the roof is required by the California Fire Code, such access shall be from the smokeproof enclosure where a smokeproof enclosure is required.

    909.20.1 Access. Access to the stairway or ramp shall be by way of a vestibule or an open exterior balcony. The minimum dimension of the vestibule shall be not less than the required clear width of the corridor leading to the vestibule calculated in accordance with Section 1005.1, but shall not have a width of less than 44 inches (1118 mm) and shall not have a length of less than 72 inches (1829 mm) in the direction of egress travel into the stairway, measured in a straight line between the centerline of the doorways into the vestibule and stairway.

    909.20.2 Construction. The smokeproof enclosure shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. Openings are not permitted other than the required means of egress doors. The vestibule shall be separated from the stairway or ramp by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The open exterior balcony shall be constructed in accordance with the fire-resistance rating requirements for floor assemblies.

    909.20.2.1 Door closers. Doors in a smokeproof enclosure shall be self- or automatic closing by actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6 and shall be installed at the floor-side entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. The actuation of the smoke detector on any door shall activate the closing devices on all doors in the smokeproof enclosure at all levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

    909.20.2.2 Vestibule doors. Where access to the stairway is by way of a vestibule, the door assembly from the building into the vestibule shall be a 90-minute fire door assembly complying with Section 716.5.5. The door assembly from the vestibule to the stairway shall have not less than a 20-minute fire protection rating and shall comply with the requirements for a smoke door assembly in accordance with Section 716.5.3. The door shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 105.

    909.20.2.3 Standpipes. Where access to the stairway is by way of a vestibule, Fire department standpipe connections and valves serving the floor shall be within the vestibule unless otherwise approved by the fire code official. Standpipe connections in vesti- bules shall be located in such a manner so as not to obstruct egress where hose lines are connected and charged.

    909.20.2.4 Pressure differences. The minimum pressure differences within the vestibule with the doors closed shall be 0.05-inch water gage (12.44 Pa) positive pressure relative to the fire floor and 0.05-inch water gage (12.44 Pa) negative pressure relative to the exit enclosure. No pressure difference is required relative to a nonfire floor.

Frequently asked questions

Do interior exit stair enclosures always have to be 2 hours?

No. The required fire‑resistance rating depends on how many stories the stair connects: not less than 2 hours where connecting four stories or more; not less than 1 hour where connecting less than four stories (§1023.2) .

Can an elevator open directly into an exit stair?

No. Elevators shall not open into interior exit stairways and ramps (§1023.4) .

What is the minimum clear width for an exit passageway?

Minimum clear width is 44 inches generally; 36 inches when the exit passageway serves an occupant load of less than 50 (§1024.2) .

When may an exterior exit stairway be unseparated from the building interior?

Limited exceptions exist (e.g., certain low‑rise occupancies, Group R‑3 units that discharge to grade, or where the stairs are part of an open exterior ramp/balcony system meeting specific openness and sprinklering conditions) — see the exceptions in §1027.6 §1027.6) .

Are penetrations permitted in stair enclosures for mechanical ducts?

Only limited, specific penetrations are permitted (equipment/ductwork necessary for independent ventilation or pressurization, fire protection systems, limited electrical raceways, structural elements, etc.) and those penetrations must be protected per §714 (§1023.5) .

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California Building Code