CBC · California Building Code

What inspections/testing are required for fire‑resistant penetrations, joints and smoke control systems?

For homeowners: the CBC requires independent special inspectors to check that firestop and joint systems are installed exactly as the tested/listed systems require and that smoke control systems are tested (duct leakage, pressure, airflow, controls) by qualified testers before anything is concealed and before occupancy. The inspections and tests must follow the specific standards and qualifications named in §§1705A.18.1 and 1705A.19.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Building Code requires that penetration firestop systems listed and tested under the referenced penetration sections be inspected by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2174 (penetration firestops) — see §1705A.18.1. Fire‑resistant joint systems have analogous inspection requirements under ASTM E2393 as required by §1705A.18.2. Smoke control systems must be tested by a special inspector; the code prescribes the scope of those tests and the minimum qualifications for approved testing agencies in §1705A.19 and its subsections.

Requirements in detail

1) Penetration firestops (through‑penetrations and membrane penetrations)

  • What is required: Inspections of penetration firestop systems that are tested and listed in accordance with the applicable penetration sections must be performed by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2174. The inspection requirement is invoked where §1705A.18 applies (for example, high‑rise buildings and certain Risk Categories). §1705A.18.1 identifies ASTM E2174 as the inspection standard for penetration firestops.
  • Why it matters: These inspections verify installed firestop systems match the tested/listed system (per the system design number and listing) and are complete before concealment. See the general inspection/concealment requirement in §110.3.8.
  • Link to tested/listed assemblies: The penetration inspection requirement applies to systems tested/listed per the penetration provisions (for example §714.4.1.2 and §714.5.1.2).

2) Fire‑resistant joint systems

  • What is required: Inspection of fire‑resistant joint systems that are tested and listed per the joint provisions shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2393, as required by §1705A.18.2.
  • Where this applies: Same triggering conditions as penetration special inspections (see §1705A.18).

3) Smoke control systems — testing scope and qualifications

  • Who must test: Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector or approved agency. §1705A.19 requires testing by a special inspector.
  • Minimum test scope: §1705A.19.1 specifies two required test phases:
    1. During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment — leakage testing and recording device locations.
    2. Prior to occupancy after sufficient completion — pressure‑difference testing, flow measurements, and detection and control verification.
  • Qualifications of approved agencies: §1705A.19.2 requires approved agencies to have expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.
  • Acceptance testing and reporting (related CBC provisions): Acceptance tests of devices/components, and the required measurements and sequences, are described in Chapter 9 (for example §909.18 and §909.18.8) and the acceptance testing language requires a final test report signed and sealed by the responsible registered design professional when the design intent has been achieved. §909.18.8.3 describes the final report content and reviewer sign‑off. These Chapter 9 provisions tie into §1705A.19 testing requirements.

Quick decision table

Item Required action Standard / test method When / timing Who must perform Code Reference
Penetration firestops (through/membrane) Field inspection of installed systems to match tested/listed system ASTM E2174 Prior to concealment / as part of special inspections Approved inspection agency (special inspector) §1705A.18.1 and penetration provisions §714.4.1.2 / §714.5.1.2
Fire‑resistant joint systems Field inspection of installed joint systems per listing ASTM E2393 Prior to concealment / as part of special inspections Approved inspection agency (special inspector) §1705A.18.2 and joint provisions §715.3.1 / §715.4
Smoke control systems Leakage tests (ducts), pressure‑difference tests, flow measurements, detection/control verification; final acceptance tests and report Generally accepted engineering practice; manufacturer/NFPA standards where applicable; acceptance testing per Chapter 9 1) During duct erection (leakage) 2) Prior to occupancy (pressure/flow/control verification) Special inspector / approved agency with fire protection & mechanical engineering expertise and certification as air balancer §1705A.19, §1705A.19.1, §1705A.19.2 ; acceptance/testing detail §909.18.8 and report §909.18.8.3

Exceptions & special cases

  • Jurisdictional program differences: Some California authorities (OSHPD and DSA) impose broader or different scopes (for example OSHPD requires these special inspections for buildings assigned to all Risk Categories). Check the local enforcement application of §1705A.18.
  • Assemblies installed as part of a listed tested assembly: The inspection is intended to verify installed work matches the tested/listed system and manufacturer/listing installation instructions (system design number). If the system design number is known, the installed work must be inspected to the listing and manufacturer instructions (see maintenance/repair language in the Fire Code §703 and general inspection requirements §110.3.8).
  • Integrated testing: Where smoke control is integrated with fire alarm or other life‑safety systems, integrated testing requirements (including NFPA 4 guidance and integrated tests prior to certificate of occupancy) may apply via the Fire Code and Chapter 9 cross references. See §909 and related testing/integration provisions.

Common mistakes

  • Concealing penetrations or joints before a special inspection has been completed — §110.3.8 and §§1705A.18.1/.18.2 require inspections before concealment.
  • Using an unqualified tester for smoke control — §1705A.19.2 requires specific expertise (fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering, and certification as an air balancer). Hiring a tester without these qualifications can result in rejection of the test report.
  • Treating ASTM vs NFPA interchangeably without checking the code citation — CBC explicitly names ASTM E2174 for penetration inspection (§1705A.18.1) and ASTM E2393 for joint systems (§1705A.18.2); acceptance testing for smoke control references Chapter 9 procedures and generally accepted engineering practice (and NFPA where applicable). Confirm which standard the code requires before bidding/specifying tests.
  • Omitting the required final documentation: Chapter 9 (§909.18.8.3) requires a complete testing report that includes measured values and identification of devices and to be reviewed and signed/sealed by the responsible registered design professional.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Project: 12‑story high‑rise mixed‑use building (high‑rise triggers special inspection per §1705A.18).

  1. Fire‑stop inspections:
    • The contractor installs penetration firestop systems at floor openings and perimeter seals. The owner engages an approved special inspection agency qualified to perform ASTM E2174 inspections as required by §1705A.18.1. The inspector visits during rough‑in and inspects installed systems against the listed system design numbers and manufacturer instructions; findings are logged and noncompliant penetrations are corrected prior to concealment in accordance with §110.3.8.
  2. Smoke control testing:
    • During duct erection the smoke control tester conducts leakage testing of ducts and records device locations (required by §1705A.19.1, item 1). After system completion and before issuance of occupancy, the approved agency conducts pressure‑difference tests across smoke barriers, measures airflow rates at inlets/outlets, verifies detector and control sequences, verifies fan rotation and electrical data, and confirms damper function — matching the scope in §1705A.19.1 and the acceptance testing items in §909.18 (e.g., §909.18.2–§909.18.7). The test report prepared by the approved agency includes measured values, device identification, and is reviewed and signed/sealed by the responsible registered design professional per §909.18.8.3.
      Notes: The code does not prescribe exact sample sizes or a numeric schedule for penetration inspections in §1705A.18.1 — the inspection methodology and any sample/coverage criteria are governed by ASTM E2174 and the approved agency’s procedures; ensure the chosen agency documents its sampling/inspection plan consistent with ASTM E2174 and local enforcement expectations.

Related provisions

  • §1705A.18 — Fire‑resistant penetrations and joints (scope/when special inspections apply)
  • §1705A.18.1 — Penetration firestops; inspection per ASTM E2174 (controlling for through/membrane penetrations)
  • §1705A.18.2 — Fire‑resistant joint systems; inspection per ASTM E2393
  • §714.4.1.2 and §714.5.1.2 — Through‑penetration / membrane penetration test/listing references that trigger inspection requirements
  • §715.3.1 and §715.4 — Joint system test/listing references
  • §110.3.8 — Protection of fire‑ and smoke‑resistant penetrations/joints shall not be concealed until inspected and approved
  • §1705 (General Special Inspections chapter) — procedures and triggers for special inspections
  • §909.18 / §909.18.8 / §909.18.8.3 — Acceptance testing and reporting requirements for smoke control systems (interfaces with §1705A.19 testing)

Code references

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

  • CBC § 1705.18.1 High relevance — show source text

    [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Buildings assigned to all Risk Categories shall be subject to special inspections for fire-resistant penetrations and joints.

    [BF] 1705.18.1 Penetration firestops. Inspections of penetration firestop systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.4.1.2 and 714.5.1.2 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2174.

    [BF] 1705.18.2 Fire-resistant joint systems. Inspection of fire-resistant joint systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2393.

    [F] 1705.19 Testing for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector.

    [F] 1705.19.1 Testing scope. The test scope shall be as follows:

    1. During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage testing and recording of device location.

    2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure difference testing, flow measurements and detection and control verification.

    [F] 1705.19.2 Qualifications. Approved agencies for smoke control testing shall have expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.

    1705.20 Sealing of mass timber. Periodic special inspections of sealants or adhesives shall be conducted where sealant or adhesive required by Section 703.7 is applied to mass timber building elements as designated in the approved construction documents.

    SECTION 1706—DESIGN STRENGTHS OF MATERIALS

    1706.1 Conformance to standards. The design strengths and permissible stresses of any structural material that are identified by a manufacturer’s designation as to manufacture and grade by mill tests, or the strength and stress grade is otherwise confirmed to the satisfaction of the building official, shall conform to the specifications and methods of design of accepted engineering practice or the approved rules in the absence of applicable standards.

    1706.2 New materials. For materials that are not specifically provided for in this code, the design strengths and permissible stresses shall be established by tests as provided for in Section 1707.

    SECTION 1707—ALTERNATIVE TEST PROCEDURE

    1707.1 General. In the absence of approved rules or other approved standards, the building official shall make, or cause to be made, the necessary tests and investigations; or the building official shall accept duly authenticated reports from approved agencies in respect to the quality and manner of use of new materials or assemblies as provided for in Section 104.2.3 or 1.8.7, as applicable. The cost of all tests and other investigations required under the provisions of this code shall be borne by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

    [BSC] In the absence of approved rules or other approved standards, the building official shall make, or cause to be made, the neces- sary tests and investigations; or the building official shall accept duly authenticated reports from approved agencies in respect to the quality and manner of use of new materials or assemblies as provided for in Section 1.2.1, Chapter 1, Division I. The cost of all tests and other investigations required under the provisions of this code shall be borne by the applicant.

    SECTION 1708—IN-SITU LOAD TESTS

    **1708.1 General.

  • CBC § 17.1 High relevance — show source text

    [BF] 1705 A .16 Intumescent fire-resistive materials. Special inspections and tests for intumescent fire-resistive materials applied to structural elements and decks shall be performed in accordance with AWCI 12-B. Special inspections and tests shall be based on the fire-resistance design as designated in the approved construction documents. Special inspections and tests shall be performed during construction. Additional visual inspection shall be performed after the rough installation and, where applicable, prior to the concealment of electrical, automatic sprinkler, mechanical and plumbing systems.

    [BF] 1705 A .17 Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS). Special inspections shall be required for all EIFS applications.

    Exceptions:

    1. Special inspections shall not be required for EIFS applications installed over a water-resistive barrier with a means of draining moisture to the exterior.
    2. Special inspections shall not be required for EIFS applications installed over masonry or concrete walls.

    [BF] 1705 A .17.1 Water-resistive barrier coating. A water-resistive barrier coating complying with ASTM E2570 requires special inspection of the water-resistive barrier coating where installed over a sheathing substrate.

    [BF] 1705 A .18 Fire-resistant penetrations and joints. In high-rise buildings, in buildings assigned to Risk Category III or IV, or in fire areas containing Group R occupancies with an occupant load greater than 250, special inspections for through-penetrations, membrane penetration firestops, fire-resistant joint systems and perimeter fire containment systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.4.1.2, 714.5.1.2, 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be in accordance with Section 1705 A .18.1 or 1705 A .18.2.

    [DSA SS, DSA-SS/CC] Buildings assigned to Risk Category II, III or IV shall be subject to special inspections for fire-resistant penetrations and joints.

    [BF] 1705 A .18.1 Penetration firestops. Inspections of penetration firestop systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.4.1.2 and 714.5.1.2 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2174.

    [BF] 1705 A .18.2 Fire-resistant joint systems. Inspection of fire-resistant joint systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2393.

    [F] 1705 A .19 Testing for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector.

    [F] 1705 A .19.1 Testing scope. The test scope shall be as follows:

    1. During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage testing and recording of device location.

    2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure difference testing, flow measurements and detection and control verification.

    [F] 1705 A .19.2 Qualifications. Approved agencies for smoke control testing shall have expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.

  • CBC § 1705.16 High relevance — show source text

    [BF] 1705.16 Intumescent fire-resistive materials. Special inspections and tests for intumescent fire-resistive materials applied to structural elements and decks shall be performed in accordance with AWCI 12-B. Special inspections and tests shall be based on the fire-resistance design as designated in the approved construction documents. Special inspections and tests shall be performed during construction. Additional visual inspection shall be performed after the rough installation and, where applicable, prior to the concealment of electrical, automatic sprinkler, mechanical and plumbing systems.

    [BF] 1705.17 Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS). Special inspections shall be required for all EIFS applications.

    Exceptions:

    1. Special inspections shall not be required for EIFS applications installed over a water-resistive barrier with a means of draining moisture to the exterior.
    2. Special inspections shall not be required for EIFS applications installed over masonry or concrete walls.

    [BF] 1705.17.1 Water-resistive barrier coating. A water-resistive barrier coating complying with ASTM E2570 requires special inspection of the water-resistive barrier coating where installed over a sheathing substrate.

    17-18 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    [BF] 1705.18 Fire-resistant penetrations and joints. In high-rise buildings, in buildings assigned to Risk Category III or IV, or in fire areas containing Group R occupancies with an occupant load greater than 250, special inspections for through-penetrations, membrane penetration firestops, fire-resistant joint systems and perimeter fire containment systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.4.1.2, 714.5.1.2, 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be in accordance with Section 1705.18.1 or 1705.18.2.

    [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Buildings assigned to all Risk Categories shall be subject to special inspections for fire-resistant penetrations and joints.

    [BF] 1705.18.1 Penetration firestops. Inspections of penetration firestop systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.4.1.2 and 714.5.1.2 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2174.

    [BF] 1705.18.2 Fire-resistant joint systems. Inspection of fire-resistant joint systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2393.

    [F] 1705.19 Testing for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector.

    [F] 1705.19.1 Testing scope. The test scope shall be as follows:

    1. During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage testing and recording of device location.

    2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure difference testing, flow measurements and detection and control verification.

    [F] 1705.19.2 Qualifications. Approved agencies for smoke control testing shall have expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.

  • CBC § 18.1 High relevance — show source text

    [DSA SS, DSA-SS/CC] Buildings assigned to Risk Category II, III or IV shall be subject to special inspections for fire-resistant penetrations and joints.

    [BF] 1705 A .18.1 Penetration firestops. Inspections of penetration firestop systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.4.1.2 and 714.5.1.2 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2174.

    [BF] 1705 A .18.2 Fire-resistant joint systems. Inspection of fire-resistant joint systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 715.3.1 and 715.4 shall be conducted by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E2393.

    [F] 1705 A .19 Testing for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a special inspector.

    [F] 1705 A .19.1 Testing scope. The test scope shall be as follows:

    1. During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage testing and recording of device location.

    2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure difference testing, flow measurements and detection and control verification.

    [F] 1705 A .19.2 Qualifications. Approved agencies for smoke control testing shall have expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.

    1705 A .20 Sealing of mass timber. Periodic special inspections of sealants or adhesives shall be conducted where sealant or adhesive required by Section 703.7 is applied to mass timber building elements as designated in the approved construction documents.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-21

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    SECTION 1706 A —DESIGN STRENGTHS OF MATERIALS

    1706 A .1 Conformance to standards. The design strengths and permissible stresses of any structural material that are identified by a manufacturer’s designation as to manufacture and grade by mill tests, or the strength and stress grade is otherwise confirmed to the satisfaction of the building official, shall conform to the specifications and methods of design of accepted engineering practice or the approved rules in the absence of applicable standards.

    1706 A .2 New materials. For materials that are not specifically provided for in this code, the design strengths and permissible stresses shall be established by tests as provided for in Section 1707 A .

    SECTION 1707 A —ALTERNATIVE TEST PROCEDURE

    1707 A .1 General. In the absence of approved rules or other approved standards, the building official shall make, or cause to be made, the necessary tests and investigations; or the building official shall accept duly authenticated reports from approved agencies in respect to the quality and manner of use of new materials or assemblies as provided for in Section 104.2.3. The cost of all tests and other investigations required under the provisions of this code shall be borne by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

    SECTION 1708 A —IN-SITU LOAD TESTS

    1708 A **.1 General.

  • CBC § 701.6.1 High relevance — show source text

    701.6.1 Recordkeeping. Records of all required system inspections, testing, repairs and maintenance shall be maintained in accordance with Section 110.3.

    701.7 Unsafe conditions. Where any components in this chapter are not maintained and do not function as intended or do not have the fire resistance or the resistance to the passage of smoke required by the code under which the building was constructed, remodeled or altered, such component(s) or portion thereof shall be deemed an unsafe condition, in accordance with Section 115.1.1. Components or portions thereof determined to be unsafe shall be repaired or replaced to conform to that code under which the building was constructed, remodeled or altered or this chapter, as deemed appropriate by the fire code official.

    Where the condition of components is such that any building, structure or portion thereof presents an imminent danger to the occupants of the building, structure or portion thereof, the fire code official shall act in accordance with Section 115.2.

    SECTION 702—DEFINITIONS

    702.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

    DRAFTSTOP.

    FIREBLOCKING.

    MEMBRANE-PENETRATION FIRESTOP SYSTEM.

    OPENING PROTECTIVE.

    SMOKE BARRIER.

    SMOKE PARTITION.

    THROUGH-PENETRATION FIRESTOP SYSTEM.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 7-3

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    FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

    SECTION 703—PENETRATIONS

    703.1 Maintaining protection. Materials and firestop systems used to protect membrane and through penetrations in fire-resistance-rated construction and construction installed to resist the passage of smoke shall be maintained. The materials and firestop systems shall be securely attached to or bonded to the construction being penetrated with no openings visible through or into the cavity of the construction. Where the system design number is known, the system shall be inspected to the listing criteria and manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    703.2 Repair of penetrations. Where damaged, materials used to protect membrane- and through-penetrations shall be replaced or restored with materials or systems that meet or exceed the code requirements applicable at the time when the assembly was constructed, remodeled or altered.

    SECTION 704—JOINTS AND VOIDS

    704.1 Maintaining protection. Where required when the building was originally constructed, materials and systems used to protect joints and voids in the following locations shall be maintained. The materials and systems shall be securely attached to or bonded to the adjacent construction, without openings visible through the construction.

    1. Joints in or between fire-resistance-rated walls, floors or floor/ceiling assemblies and roof or roof/ceiling assemblies.

    2. Joints in smoke barriers.

    3. Voids at the intersection of a horizontal floor assembly and an exterior curtain wall.

    4. Voids at the intersection of a horizontal smoke barrier and an exterior curtain wall.

    5. Voids at the intersection of a nonfire-resistance-rated floor assembly and an exterior curtain wall.

    6. Voids at the intersection of a vertical fire barrier and an exterior curtain wall.

    7. Voids at the intersection of a vertical fire barrier and a nonfire-resistance-rated roof assembly.

    Unprotected joints and voids do not need to be protected where such joints and voids were not required to be protected when the building was originally constructed. Where the system design number is known, the system shall be inspected to the listing criteria and manufacturer’s installation instructions.

  • CBC § 407.5 High relevance — show source text

    Construction 407.5, 709.4, 909.5 Doors 709.5, 716.2.2.1, 909.5.3 Fire-resistance rating 703, 709.3 Glazing, rated 716.3.4 Inspection 110.3.8 Joints 709.7, 715 Marking 703.4, 703.5 Materials 709.2

    Opening protection 709.5, 714.4, 714.5.4, 716, 717.5.5, 909.5.3 Penetrations 709.6, 714 Smoke control 909.5

    Special provisions Ambulatory care facilities 422.2, 422.3, 709.5.1 Group I-1 420.6, 709.5.1 Group I-2 407.5 Group I-3 408.6, 408.7 Underground 405.4.2, 405.4.3 Smoke Compartment 407, 408, 422 Refuge area (see Refuge Area) Smoke Control 909 Amusement areas, special 411.1 Atrium buildings 404.5 Covered and open mall building 402.7.2

    Group I-3 408.9 High-rise (smoke removal) 403.4.7, 1023.12 Special inspections 1705.19 Stages 410.2.7.2 Standby power systems 909.11, 909.20.7.2, 2702.2 Underground buildings 405.5 Smoke Dampers 717.2, 717.3, 717.4, 717.5 Smoke Detectors 202 Covered and open mall building 402.8.6.1, 907.2.21 High-rise buildings 403.4.1, 907.2.14 HPM 415.11.10.3

    Institutional I-2 407.8

    Smoke-activated doors 716.2.6.6

    Special amusement areas 411.3.3 Underground buildings 907.2.19 Smoke Development 803.1.2, Table 803.13

    Smoke Exhaust Systems Underground buildings 405.5, 907.2.19, 909.2 Smoke Partitions 710

    Continuity 710.4 Doors 710.5

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    INDEX

    Institutional 407.7, 408.11, 420.5, 903.2.6, 903.3.2 Laundry chutes, refuse chutes, termination rooms and incinerator

    rooms 713.13, 903.2.11.2 Live/work units 508.5.7, 903.2.8 Mercantile 903.2.7

  • CBC § 909.3 High relevance — show source text

    909.3 Special inspection and test requirements. In addition to the ordinary inspection and test requirements that buildings, structures and parts thereof are required to undergo, smoke control systems subject to the provisions of Section 909 shall undergo special inspections and tests sufficient to verify the proper commissioning of the smoke control design in its final installed condition. The design submission accompanying the construction documents shall clearly detail procedures and methods to be used and the items subject to such inspections and tests. Such commissioning shall be in accordance with generally accepted engineering practice and, where possible, based on published standards for the particular testing involved. The special inspections and tests required by this section shall be conducted under the same terms as in Section 1704 of the California Building Code .

    909.4 Analysis. A rational analysis supporting the types of smoke control systems to be employed, the methods of their operations, the systems supporting them and the methods of construction to be utilized shall accompany the construction documents submission and include, but not be limited to, the items indicated in Sections 909.4.1 through 909.4.7.

    909.4.1 Stack effect. The system shall be designed such that the maximum probable normal or reverse stack effect will not adversely interfere with the system’s capabilities. In determining the maximum probable stack effect, altitude, elevation, weather history and interior temperatures shall be used.

    909.4.2 Temperature effect of fire. Buoyancy and expansion caused by the design fire in accordance with Section 909.9 shall be analyzed. The system shall be designed such that these effects do not adversely interfere with the system’s capabilities.

    909.4.3 Wind effect. The design shall consider the adverse effects of wind. Such consideration shall be consistent with the windloading provisions of the California Building Code .

    909.4.4 Systems. The design shall consider the effects of the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems on both smoke and fire transport. The analysis shall include all permutations of systems status. The design shall consider the effects of the fire on the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems.

    909.4.5 Climate. The design shall consider the effects of low temperatures on systems, property and occupants. Air inlets and exhausts shall be located so as to prevent snow or ice blockage.

    909.4.6 Duration of operation. All portions of active or engineered smoke control systems shall be capable of continued operation after detection of the fire event for a period of not less than either 20 minutes or 1.5 times the calculated egress time, whichever is greater.

    909.4.7 Smoke control system interaction. The design shall consider the interaction effects of the operation of multiple smoke control systems for all design scenarios.

    909.5 Smoke barrier construction. Smoke barriers required for passive smoke control and a smoke control system using the pressurization method shall comply with Section 709 of the California Building Code . The maximum allowable leakage area shall be the aggregate area calculated using the following leakage area ratios:

    1. Walls: A/A w = 0.00100
    2. Interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways: A/A w = 0.00035
    3. Enclosed exit access stairways and ramps and all other shafts: A/A w = 0.00150
    4. Floors and roofs: A/A F = 0.00050

    where:

  • CBC § 714.3 High relevance — show source text

    714.3 Sleeves. Where sleeves are used, they shall be securely fastened to the assembly penetrated and installed in accordance with the sleeve manufacturer’s installation instructions. Where listed systems are used, the sleeve shall be installed in accordance with the listing criteria for the system. The space between the item contained in the sleeve and the sleeve itself and any space between the sleeve and the assembly penetrated shall be protected in accordance with this section. Insulation and coverings on or in the penetrating item shall not penetrate the assembly unless the specific material used has been tested as part of the assembly in accordance with this section.

    714.4 Fire-resistance-rated walls. Penetrations into or through fire walls, fire barriers, smoke barrier walls and fire partitions shall comply with Sections 714.4.1 through 714.4.3. Penetrations in smoke barrier walls shall also comply with Section 714.5.4.

    714.4.1 Through penetrations. Through penetrations of fire-resistance-rated walls shall comply with Section 714.4.1.1 or 714.4.1.2.

    Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular space between the penetrating item and the fire-resistance-rated wall is permitted to be protected by either of the following measures:

    1. In concrete or masonry walls where the penetrating item is a maximum 6-inch (152 mm) nominal diameter and the area of the opening through the wall does not exceed 144 square inches (0.0929 m [2] ), concrete, grout or mortar is permitted where installed the full thickness of the wall or the thickness required to maintain the fire-resistance rating.
    2. The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases sufficient to ignite cotton waste when subjected to ASTM E119 or UL 263 time-temperature fire conditions under a minimum positive pressure

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-23

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    FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

    differential of 0.01 inch of water (2.49 Pa) at the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fireresistance rating of the construction penetrated.

    714.4.1.1 Fire-resistance-rated assemblies. Through penetrations shall be protected using systems installed as tested in the approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.

    714.4.1.2 Through-penetration firestop system. Through penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.01 inch of water (2.49 Pa) and shall have an F rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rating of the wall penetrated.

    714.4.2 Membrane penetrations. Membrane penetrations shall comply with Section 714.4.1. Where walls or partitions are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.

    Exceptions: 1.

  • CBC § 110.3.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    110.3.4.1 [HCD 1] Moisture content verification. Moisture content of framing members shall be verified in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 4, Division 4.5.

    [A] 110.3.5 Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C connection protection inspection. In buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction, where connection fire-resistance ratings are provided by wood cover calculated to meet the requirements of Section 2304.10.1, inspection of the wood cover shall be made after the cover is installed, but before any other coverings or finishes are installed.

    [A] 110.3.6 Lath and gypsum panel product inspection. Lath and gypsum panel product inspections shall be made after lathing and gypsum panel products, interior and exterior, are in place, but before any plastering is applied or gypsum panel product joints and fasteners are taped and finished.

    Exception: Gypsum panel products that are not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a shear assembly.

    [A] 110.3.7 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface waterproofing. Where balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system shall not be concealed until inspected and approved.

    Exception: Where special inspections are provided in accordance with Section 1705.1.1, Item 3.

    [A] 110.3.8 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.

    [A] 110.3.9 Energy efficiency inspections. Inspections shall be made to determine compliance with Chapter 13 and shall include, but not be limited to, inspections for: envelope insulation R- and U-values, fenestration U-value, duct system R-value, and HVAC and water-heating equipment efficiency.

    [A] 110.3.10 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified in Sections 110.3.1 through 110.3.9, the building official is authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the department of building safety.

    [A] 110.3.11 Special inspections. For special inspections, see Chapter 17.

    [A] 110.3.12 Final inspection. The final inspection shall be made after all work required by the building permit is completed.

    [A] 110.3.12.1 Flood hazard documentation. If located in a flood hazard area, documentation of the elevation of the lowest floor or the elevation of dry floodproofing, if applicable, as required in Section 1612.4 shall be submitted to the building official prior to the final inspection.

    110.3.12.2 [HCD 1] Operation and maintenance manual. At the time of final inspection, a manual, compact disc, web-based reference or other media acceptable to the enforcing agency shall be placed in the building in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 4, Division 4.4.

    [A] 110.4 Inspection agencies. The building official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection agencies, provided that such agencies satisfy the requirements as to qualifications and reliability.

  • CBC § 110.2 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 110.2 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the building official is authorized to examine or cause to be examined buildings, structures and sites for which an application has been filed.

    [A] 110.3 Required inspections. The building official, upon notification, shall make the inspections set forth in Sections 110.3.1 through 110.3.12.

    [A] 110.3.1 Footing and foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections shall be made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place. For concrete foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. Materials for the foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is ready mixed in accordance with ASTM C94, the concrete need not be on the job.

    [A] 110.3.2 Concrete slab and under-floor inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor inspections shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place, but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the subfloor.

    [A] 110.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation certification required in Section 1612.4 or the California Residential Code, as applicable, shall be submitted to the building official.

    [A] 110.3.4 Frame inspection. Framing inspections shall be made after the roof deck or sheathing, all framing, fire-blocking and bracing are in place and pipes, chimneys and vents to be concealed are complete and the rough electrical, plumbing, heating wires, pipes and ducts are approved.

    110.3.4.1 [HCD 1] Moisture content verification. Moisture content of framing members shall be verified in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 4, Division 4.5.

    [A] 110.3.5 Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C connection protection inspection. In buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction, where connection fire-resistance ratings are provided by wood cover calculated to meet the requirements of Section 2304.10.1, inspection of the wood cover shall be made after the cover is installed, but before any other coverings or finishes are installed.

    [A] 110.3.6 Lath and gypsum panel product inspection. Lath and gypsum panel product inspections shall be made after lathing and gypsum panel products, interior and exterior, are in place, but before any plastering is applied or gypsum panel product joints and fasteners are taped and finished.

    Exception: Gypsum panel products that are not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a shear assembly.

    [A] 110.3.7 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface waterproofing. Where balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system shall not be concealed until inspected and approved.

    Exception: Where special inspections are provided in accordance with Section 1705.1.1, Item 3.

    [A] 110.3.8 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.

  • CBC § 904.2 High relevance — show source text

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(g)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.

    (g) Prior to activating any fire alarm component of an automatic fire extinguishing system, the licensee shall ensure that the licensee is capable of restoring the fire alarm system.

    TABLE 901.6.1—FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS Col2
    SYSTEM STANDARD
    Portable fire extinguishers California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3
    Carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems NFPA 12
    Halon 1301 fire-extinguishing systems NFPA 12A
    Dry-chemical extinguishing systems NFPA 17
    Wet-chemical extinguishing systems NFPA 17A
    Water-based fire protection systems California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5
    Fire alarm systems NFPA 72
    Fire dampers NFPA 80
    Smoke dampers NFPA 105
    Smoke and heat vents NFPA 204
    Water-mist systems NFPA 750
    Clean-agent extinguishing systems NFPA 2001
    Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems NFPA 2010

    901.6.2 Integrated testing. Where two or more fire protection or life safety systems are interconnected, the intended response of subordinate fire protection and life safety systems shall be verified when required testing of the initiating system is conducted. In addition, integrated testing shall be performed in accordance with Sections 901.6.2.1 and 901.6.2.2.

    901.6.2.1 High-rise buildings. For high-rise buildings, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4. If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced.

    901.6.2.2 Smoke control systems. Where a fire alarm system is integrated with a smoke control system as outlined in Section 909, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occu

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-9

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

    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    pancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4. If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced.

    901.6.3 Records. Records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance shall be maintained in accordance with Section 110.3.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.1(b)] Inspection Requirements.

    (b) Records of all inspections shall be retained on the premises by the building or system owner for a period of five years after the next required inspection.

  • CBC § 109.3.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 109.3.5 Lath or gypsum panel product inspection. Lath and gypsum panel inspections shall be made after lathing and gypsum panel products, interior and exterior, are in place but before any plastering is applied or before gypsum panel product joints and fasteners are taped and finished.

    Exception: Gypsum panels that are not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a shear assembly.

    [A] 109.3.6 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface waterproofing. Where the scope of work involves balconies or other elevated walking surfaces that have weather-exposed surfaces and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system shall not be concealed until inspected and approved.

    Exception: [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Where special inspections are provided in accordance with Section 1705A.1.1, Item 3 or Section 1705.1.1, Item 3, as applicable, of the California Building Code .

    109.3.6.1 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface (exterior elevated element) inspections for multifamily buildings with three or more dwelling units. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces extending beyond the exterior walls of a building, more than 6 feet (1828.8 mm) above ground level, and that rely on wood or wood-based products for structural support or stability shall be inspected. Inspections shall be conducted in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17973(a) through (f) and (m). Weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces found to be in need of repair or replace- ment shall be corrected in accordance with Section 17973(g) through (i). Continued and ongoing maintenance of weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces shall be the responsibility of the building owner in accordance with Section 17973(k). See defini- tion of “exterior elevated element” in Health and Safety Code Section 17973(b)(2) for additional details. See Civil Code Section 5551 for inspections of condominium projects.

    [A] 109.3.7 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.

    [A] 109.3.8 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified in Sections 109.2 through 109.3.7, the code official is authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the department of building safety.

    Note: All noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any residential real property shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixture replacement is required prior to issuance of a certificate of final completion, certificate of occupancy or final permit approval by the local building department. See Civil Code Section 1101.1, et seq., for the definition of a noncompliant plumbing fixture, types of residential buildings affected and other important enactment dates.

    [A] 109.3.9 Special inspections. Special inspections shall be required in accordance with the California Building Code .

Frequently asked questions

Who must perform penetration firestop inspections?

An approved special inspection agency (special inspector) must perform penetration firestop inspections in accordance with ASTM E2174 when the assemblies are subject to §1705A.18 triggers; see §1705A.18.1.

When must smoke control duct leakage be tested?

Duct leakage testing must be performed during erection of ductwork and prior to concealment, per the first item of §1705A.19.1.

What qualifications are required for agencies that test smoke control systems?

Approved smoke control testing agencies must demonstrate expertise in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and have air‑balancer certification as required by §1705A.19.2.

Is a final report required for smoke control acceptance testing?

Yes — Chapter 9 requires a complete test report with device identification, measured and design values, and the report must be reviewed and signed/sealed by the responsible registered design professional as described in §909.18.8.3.

Can penetrations be concealed before inspection?

No. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire‑ and smoke‑resistant assemblies shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved per §110.3.8 and the special inspection provisions §1705A.18.1/.18.2.

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