CEBC · California Existing Building Code
When are sprinklers, fire alarm/detection and site fire-protection measures required?
For homeowners: The existing‑building code (CEBC § 904) says you must provide sprinklers and fire alarms when the referenced new‑construction rules (CBC §903 and §907) require them, and you must keep existing systems working or follow the fire code’s procedures (CFC §901.7 and Chapter 33) while work is underway.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
- The California Existing Building Code requires that an automatic sprinkler system be provided in accordance with Section 903 of the California Building and California Fire Codes (§ 904.1) and that fire alarm and detection be provided in accordance with Section 907 of the California Building Code as required for new construction (§ 904.2) (CEBC).
- The CEBC also requires that existing fire alarm and detection systems be maintained while work is in progress in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code and that site fire protection during construction comply with Chapter 33 of the California Building and Fire Codes (§ 904.2.1).
The single most important rule: the CEBC does not create new technical triggers itself — it requires you to provide sprinklers and alarms by following the referenced new‑construction rules (Section 903 for sprinklers, Section 907 for alarms) and to maintain or provide temporary fire protection during construction as required by the California Fire Code and Chapter 33.
Requirements in detail
Quick explanation of each controlling §
- § 904.1 — Automatic sprinkler systems: Requires an automatic sprinkler system “shall be provided in accordance with Section 903 of the California Building and California Fire Codes.” This makes the CBC/CFC sprinkler rules the controlling technical standard for existing‑building work where CEBC § 904 applies.
- § 904.2 — Fire alarm and detection systems: Requires fire alarm/detection “in accordance with Section 907 of the California Building Code as required for new construction in accordance with California Fire Code Sections 907 and 1103.7.” In practice the CEBC delegates thresholds and device/notification requirements to Section 907 (CBC/CFC).
- § 904.2.1 — Systems out of service / site protection: Requires existing alarm/detection systems to be maintained per CFC § 901.7 and requires site fire protection during construction per Chapter 33 of the CBC and CFC.
Decision table — when to provide what
| Decision factor / trigger | Required system or action | Code reference (CEBC + delegated section) |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic sprinkler requirement for existing‑building work | Provide an automatic sprinkler system per the new‑construction sprinkler rules | CEBC § 904.1 — see Section 903 (CBC/CFC) for technical triggers and design. |
| Fire alarm / detection requirement for existing‑building work | Provide fire alarm and detection per the new‑construction fire alarm rules | CEBC § 904.2 — see Section 907 (CBC) and CFC Sections 907 and 1103.7 for thresholds and notification requirements. |
| Existing alarm/detection taken out of service during work | Maintain systems in service or follow CFC procedures for systems out of service (e.g., as required by CFC §901.7) | CEBC § 904.2.1 — references CFC § 901.7. |
| Site fire protection during construction/occupancy | Provide site protection during construction per Chapter 33 of the CBC and CFC | CEBC § 904.2.1 — Chapter 33 (CBC/CFC) for construction site fire protection. |
Notes: the CEBC text places the responsibility on the project to follow the referenced new‑construction rules rather than restating every trigger or technical parameter. For the actual occupancy/area/height triggers, design densities, and device counts you must consult Section 903 (sprinklers) and Section 907 (fire alarm/detection) of the California Building Code and associated provisions in the California Fire Code.
Exceptions & special cases
- CEBC § 904 itself does not list detailed occupancy or size exceptions; it delegates those determinations to the referenced new‑construction sections. For occupancy‑specific exceptions (for example, certain small buildings or specific Group exceptions), consult Section 903 (sprinklers) and Section 907 (alarms) in the California Building Code and the related California Fire Code provisions cited by CEBC.
- When an existing fire alarm or sprinkler system already exists, CEBC requires that the existing system be maintained; CEBC § 904.2.1 points you to CFC § 901.7 for procedures when systems are out of service. The CFC contains the step‑by‑step requirements (notifications, fire watch, temporary protection) — these specifics are not restated in § 904.2.1.
- Site fire protection during construction is required and is governed by Chapter 33 of the CBC and CFC; CEBC § 904.2.1 makes that cross‑reference mandatory for existing‑building work that involves construction activity on site.
If you need the text of CFC § 901.7 or the specific triggers in CBC §§ 903 / 907, those sections are in the California Fire Code and California Building Code (the CEBC references them) — they are not reproduced in full in CEBC § 904 and should be reviewed directly for technical thresholds.
Common mistakes
- Assuming CEBC § 904 creates new technical thresholds. It does not — it delegates to CBC/CFC Section 903 and Section 907. Always check those referenced sections for occupancy, area, or height triggers.
- Letting systems be taken out of service without following the CFC procedures. CEBC § 904.2.1 requires maintenance/temporary measures per CFC § 901.7; failure to follow that may violate local fire code requirements.
- Treating “site fire protection during construction” as optional; CEBC § 904.2.1 mandates compliance with Chapter 33 (CBC/CFC) for construction‑related site protection.
- Replacing or altering detection/sprinkler systems without coordinating with the enforcing agency: the CEBC references the new‑construction rules (which often require plans, approvals and testing) — coordinate early.
Worked example — practical scenario with numbers
Scenario: A property owner plans a Level 3 alteration that affects much of the second floor of an existing 3‑story office building. The work requires removal of ceiling finishes and partial demolition of walls. The existing building has a limited sprinkler system that does not cover the work area.
Step‑by‑step using CEBC § 904:
- CEBC § 904.1 requires an automatic sprinkler system be provided in accordance with Section 903 (CBC/CFC). The project team checks § 903 for triggers (occupancy classification, area, height) and finds that adding the work area increases the unsprinklered area above the occupancy threshold required for sprinklering. Action: design and install sprinkler protection to meet Section 903 density and coverage requirements.
- CEBC § 904.2 requires fire alarm/detection be provided per Section 907 where new‑construction rules require it. The team reviews § 907 and determines the alteration triggers automatic detection and occupant notification. Action: provide smoke detectors and notification devices per § 907 and tie into the building alarm system, or provide an approved monitored connection if required.
- During the sprinkler/alarms work the existing alarm will need temporary shutdown for 3 days. CEBC § 904.2.1 requires existing systems be maintained per CFC § 901.7; the team must comply with the CFC procedures (e.g., notify the fire department and the enforcing agency, provide temporary site fire protection such as an approved fire watch or other measures per Chapter 33). The CEBC text itself does not list the exact notification timing or fire‑watch duration — those are in CFC § 901.7 and Chapter 33, which the team consults directly.
Result: Because CEBC § 904 delegates to Sections 903 and 907, the project must comply with those technical rules for design and must follow CFC § 901.7 and Chapter 33 procedures for any temporary outages or construction site protection.
Related provisions (CEBC / CBC / CFC referenced by § 904)
- CEBC § 904.1 — Automatic sprinkler systems (this article’s controlling CEBC sprinkler clause).
- CEBC § 904.2 — Fire alarm and detection systems (this article’s controlling CEBC alarm clause).
- California Building Code § 903 — Automatic sprinkler systems (design triggers and densities; CEBC § 904 delegates to § 903).
- California Building Code § 907 — Fire alarm and detection systems (the technical alarm rules CEBC § 904.2 requires you to follow).
- California Fire Code § 901.7 — Systems out of service / maintenance procedures referenced by CEBC § 904.2.1 (see CFC for required notifications and temporary measures).
- California Building & Fire Codes, Chapter 33 — Site fire protection during construction (referenced by CEBC § 904.2.1).
If you need the exact trigger tables, densities, device counts or the CFC procedures for systems out of service, consult CBC § 903 and § 907 and CFC § 901.7 / Chapter 33 directly — CEBC § 904 requires those sections to be followed but does not restate their technical text.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 903.2.1 High relevance — show source text
903.2.1 Separation required. Where the work area is in any attached dwelling unit in Group R-3 or any multiple single-family dwelling (townhouse), walls separating the dwelling units that are not continuous from the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing shall be constructed to provide a continuous fire separation using construction materials consistent with the existing wall or complying with the requirements for new structures. Work shall be performed on the side of the dwelling unit wall that is part of the work area.
Exception: Where alterations or repairs do not result in the removal of wall or ceiling finishes exposing the structure, walls are not required to be continuous through concealed floor spaces.
903.3 Interior finish. Interior finish in exits serving the work area shall comply with Section 802.4 between the highest floor on which there is a work area to the floor of exit discharge.
903.4 Enhanced classroom acoustics. In Group E occupancies, where the work area is a Level 3 alteration, enhanced classroom acoustics shall be provided in all classrooms with a volume of 20,000 cubic feet (565 m [3] ) or less. Enhanced classroom acoustics shall comply with the reverberation time in Section 808 of ICC A117.1.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 9-3
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ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 3
SECTION 904—FIRE PROTECTION
904.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with Section 903 of the California Building and California Fire Codes.
904.2 Fire alarm and detection systems. Fire alarm and detection shall be provided in accordance with Section 907 of the California Building Code as required for new construction in accordance with California Fire Code Sections 907 and 1103.7.
904.2.1 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code. Site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Building and California Fire Codes.
SECTION 905—MEANS OF EGRESS
905.1 General. The means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Section 804 except as specifically required in Sections 905.2 and 905.3.
905.2 Means-of-egress lighting. Means of egress from the highest work area floor to the floor of exit discharge shall be provided with artificial lighting within the exit enclosure in accordance with the requirements of the California Building Code .
905.3 Exit signs. Means of egress from the highest work area floor to the floor of exit discharge shall be provided with exit signs in accordance with the requirements of the California Building Code .
905.4 Two-way communications systems. In buildings with elevator service, a two-way communication system shall be provided where required by Section 1009.8 of the California Building Code .
SECTION 906—STRUCTURAL
[BS] 906.1 General. Where buildings are undergoing Level 3 alterations, the provisions of this section shall apply.
CEBC § 907.2.24.2 High relevance — show source text
907.2.24.2 Production locations — solid-ceiling sets and platforms. Where required by Chapter 48 of the California Fire Code in buildings with existing fire protection systems and where production intends to construct solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer's installation instructions. The fire alarm system shall be connected to an approved supervising station in accor- dance with Section 907.6.6 or a local alarm which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
907.2.24.3 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units are permitted to be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4 Heat detectors.
907.2.24.4.1 Heat detection required by this section shall be defined as a portable system as it is intended to be reinstalled when platforms or sets are changed.
907.2.24.4.2 Heat detectors shall be secured to standard outlet boxes and are allowed to be temporarily supported by sets, plat- forms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4.3 Heat detectors shall be provided for solid-ceiling sets and platforms where required by Sections 4805.3 and 4811.14.
907.2.25 Group C occupancies (organized camps).
907.2.25.1 General. Every building and structure used or intended for sleeping purposes shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings and structures in existence and in operation prior to January 1, 1985. 2. Tents, tent structures and buildings and structures that do not exceed 25 ft (7620 mm) in any lateral dimensions and where such building or structure is not more than one story.
907.2.25.2 Camp fire alarm. Every organized camp shall provide and maintain audible appliances, or devices suitable for sound- ing a fire alarm. Such audible appliances or devices may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises. When an auto- matic fire alarm system is provided, as required by Section 450.6.6 of the California Building Code, all audible appliances required by this section shall be of the same type as that used in the automatic system.
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
907.2.26 Fixed-guideway and passenger rail transit systems fire alarm and communication systems.
CEBC § 9-7 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY
SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13 904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems . 9-24 905 Standpipe Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28 906 Portable Fire Extinguishers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31 907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39 908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 909 Smoke Control Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 910 Smoke and Heat Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-66
911 Explosion Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-67 912 Fire Department Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-69 913 Fire Pumps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-70 914 Fire Protection Based on Special Detailed Requirements of Use and Occupancy . . . . . . . . . . 9-71 915 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-75 916 Gas Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-77 917 Mass Notification Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-78
CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
1001 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
1002 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
1003 General Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CEBC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text
** Rooms and areas within buildings and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS shall be protected by an automatic fire suppression system designed and installed in accordance with one of the following:
- Automatic sprinkler systems designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 for ESS units (groups) with a maximum stored energy capacity of 50 kWh, as described in Section 1207.5.1, shall be designed with a minimum density of 0.3 gpm/ft [2] (1.14 L/min) based over the area of the room or 2,500 square-foot (232 m [2] ) design area, whichever is smaller, unless a lower density is approved based on large-scale fire testing in accordance with Section 1207.1.7.
- Automatic sprinkler systems designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 for ESS units (groups) exceeding 50 kWh shall use a density based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7.
- The following alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems designed and installed in accordance with Section 904, provided that the installation is approved by the fire code official based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7:
3.1. NFPA 12, Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems . 3.2. NFPA 15, Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection . 3.3. NFPA 750, Standard on Water Mist Fire Protection Systems . 3.4. NFPA 2001, Standard on Clean Agent Fire-Extinguishing Systems . 3.5. NFPA 2010, Standard for Fixed Aerosol Fire-Extinguishing Systems . Exceptions:
- Fire suppression systems for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities that operate at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC shall be provided where required by NFPA 76.
- Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium systems that are used for DC power for control of substations and control or safe shutdown of generating stations under the exclusive control of the electric utility, and located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations, shall not be required to have a fire suppression system installed.
- Lead-acid battery systems in uninterruptable power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778, utilized for standby power applications, which is limited to not more than 10 percent of the floor area on the floor on which the ESS is located, shall not be required to have a fire suppression system. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
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ENERGY SYSTEMS
1207.5.5.1 Water-reactive systems. Electrochemical ESS that utilize water-reactive materials shall be protected by an approved alternative automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section 904, where the installation is approved by the fire code official based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7. 1207.5.6 Maximum enclosure size. Outdoor walk-in units housing ESS shall not exceed 53 feet by 8 feet by 9.5 feet high (16 154 mm × 2438 mm × 2896 mm), not including bolt-on HVAC and related equipment, as approved.
CEBC § 8-1 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISHES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1
801 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
802 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Wall and Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
804 Interior Floor Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
805 Combustible Materials in Types I and II Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
806 Decorative Materials and Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
807 Insulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
808 Acoustical Ceiling Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE
SAFETY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Fire Pump and Riser Room Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17
905 Standpipe Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
906 Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
909 Smoke Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
910 Smoke and Heat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51
CEBC § 914.3.1.1.1 High relevance — show source text
914.3.1.1.1 Buildings 420 feet or less in height. In buildings 420 feet (128 m) or less in height, sprinkler systems shall be supplied by a single standpipe or sprinkler express riser within each vertical water supply zone.
914.3.1.1.2 Buildings over 420 feet in height. In buildings more than 420 feet (128 m) in height, not fewer than two standpipes or sprinkler express risers shall supply automatic sprinkler systems within each vertical water supply zone. Each standpipe or sprinkler express riser shall supply automatic sprinkler systems on alternating floors within the vertical water supply zone such that two adjacent floors are not supplied from the same riser.
914.3.1.1.3 Riser location. Standpipe or sprinkler express risers shall be placed in interior exit stairways and ramps that are remotely located in accordance with Section 1007.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-71
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
914.3.1.2 Water supply to required fire pumps. In all buildings having an occupied floor that is more than 120 feet ( 36 576 mm ) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, required fire pumps shall be supplied by connections to not fewer than two water mains located in different streets. Separate supply piping shall be provided between each connection to the water main and the pumps. Each connection and the supply piping between the connection and the pumps shall be sized to supply the flow and pressure required for the pumps to operate.
Exception: Two connections to the same main shall be permitted provided that the main is valved such that an interruption can be isolated so that the water supply will continue without interruption through not fewer than one of the connections.
914.3.1.2.1 Fire pumps. Redundant fire pump systems shall be required for high-rise buildings having an occupied floor more than 200 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Each fire pump system shall be capable of automatically supplying the required demand for the automatic sprinkler and standpipe systems.
914.3.2 Secondary water supply. An automatic secondary on-site water supply having a usable capacity not less than the hydraulically calculated sprinkler demand, including the hose stream requirement, shall be provided for high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 ft above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E or F as determined by the California Building Code . An additional fire pump shall not be required for the secondary water supply unless needed to provide the minimum design intake pressure at the suction side of the fire pump supplying the automatic sprinkler system. The secondary water supply shall have a useable capacity of not less than the hydraulically calculated sprinkler demand plus 100 GPM for the inside hose stream, allowance for a duration of not less than 30 minutes as determined by the occupancy hazard classification in accordance with NFPA 13 , whichever is greater. The Class I stand- pipe system demand shall not be required to be included in the secondary on-site water supply calculations. In no case shall the secondary on-site water supply be less than 15,000 gallons.
914.3.3 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.
CEBC § 8-3 High relevance — show source text
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CONTENTS
802 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish in Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 804 Interior Wall and Ceiling Trim and Interior Floor Finish in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 805 Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 806 Natural Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 807 Decorative Materials and Artificial Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . 8-10 808 Furnishings Other than Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses or Decorative Materials in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY
SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13 904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems . 9-24 905 Standpipe Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28 906 Portable Fire Extinguishers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31 907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39 908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 909 Smoke Control Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 910 Smoke and Heat Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-66
CEBC § 9-1 Medium relevance — show source text
SAFETY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Fire Pump and Riser Room Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17
905 Standpipe Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
906 Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
909 Smoke Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
910 Smoke and Heat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51
911 Fire Command Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53
912 Fire Department Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-54
913 Fire Pumps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55
914 Emergency Responder Safety Features . . . . . . . . . . 9-56
915 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56
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916 Gas Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-58
917 Mass Notification Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59
918 Emergency Responder Communication Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59
CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
1001 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
CEBC § 914.3.1.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
914.3.1.2.1 Fire pumps. Redundant fire pump systems shall be required for high-rise buildings having an occupied floor more than 200 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Each fire pump system shall be capable of automatically supplying the required demand for the automatic sprinkler and standpipe systems.
914.3.2 Secondary water supply. An automatic secondary on-site water supply having a usable capacity not less than the hydraulically calculated sprinkler demand, including the hose stream requirement, shall be provided for high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 ft above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E or F as determined by the California Building Code . An additional fire pump shall not be required for the secondary water supply unless needed to provide the minimum design intake pressure at the suction side of the fire pump supplying the automatic sprinkler system. The secondary water supply shall have a useable capacity of not less than the hydraulically calculated sprinkler demand plus 100 GPM for the inside hose stream, allowance for a duration of not less than 30 minutes as determined by the occupancy hazard classification in accordance with NFPA 13 , whichever is greater. The Class I stand- pipe system demand shall not be required to be included in the secondary on-site water supply calculations. In no case shall the secondary on-site water supply be less than 15,000 gallons.
914.3.3 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.
914.3.4 Automatic smoke detection. Smoke detection shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1.
914.3.5 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
914.3.6 Emergency responder communication coverage. In-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage shall be provided in accordance with Section 510.
914.3.7 Fire command. A fire command center complying with Section 508 shall be provided in a location approved by the fire department.
914.3.8 Smoke control.
914.3.8.1 Smoke control system. All portions of high-rise buildings shall be provided with a smoke control system in accordance with California Building Code, Section 909.
914.3.8.2 Smokeproof exit enclosures. Every exit enclosure in high-rise buildings shall comply with California Building Code, Sections 909.20 and 1023.12. Every required stairway in Group I-2 occupancies serving floors more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall comply with Sections 909.20 and 1023.12 of the California Building Code.
Exception: In high-rise buildings, exit enclosures serving three or less adjacent floors where one of the adjacent floors is the level of exit discharge.
914.4 Atriums. Atriums shall comply with Sections 914.4.1 and 914.4.2.
914.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire building.
CEBC § 403.3.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
403.3.2.1 Fire pumps. Redundant fire pump systems shall be required for high-rise buildings having an occupied floor more than 200 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Each fire pump system shall be capable of automatically supply- ing the required demand for the automatic sprinkler and standpipe systems.
[F] 403.3.3 Secondary water supply. An automatic secondary on-site water supply having a usable capacity of not less than the hydraulically calculated sprinkler demand, including the hose stream requirement in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, shall be provided for high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 ft above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E or F as determined by Section 1613. An additional fire pump shall not be required for the secondary water supply unless needed to provide the minimum design intake pressure at the suction side of the fire pump supplying the automatic sprinkler system. The secondary water supply shall have a duration of not less than 30 minutes as determined by the occupancy hazard classification in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. The Class I stand-
4-10 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
pipe system demand shall not be required to be included in the secondary on-site water supply calculations. In no case shall the secondary on-site water supply be less than 15,000 gallons.
[F] 403.3.4 Fire pump room. Fire pumps shall be located in rooms protected in accordance with Section 913.2.1.
403.3.5 Fire pumps. See Section 913.6.
[F] 403.4 Emergency systems. The detection, alarm and emergency systems of high-rise buildings shall comply with Sections 403.4.1 through 403.4.8.
[F] 403.4.1 Smoke detection. Smoke detection shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1.
[F] 403.4.2 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.
[F] 403.4.3 Standpipe system. A high-rise building shall be equipped with a standpipe system as required by Section 905.3.
[F] 403.4.4 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
[F] 403.4.5 Emergency communication coverage. In-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage shall be provided in accordance with Section 510 of the California Fire Code.
[F] 403.4.6 Fire command. A fire command center complying with Section 911 shall be provided in a location approved by the fire code official.
403.4.7 Smoke control system. All portions of high-rise buildings shall be provided with a smoke control system in accordance with Section 909.
CEBC § 907.2.3.6 Medium relevance — show source text
907.2.3.6 Automatic fire alarm system. Automatic detection shall be provided in accordance with this section.
907.2.3.6.1 Smoke detectors. Smoke detectors shall be installed at the ceiling of every room and in “ceiling-plenums” utilized for environmental air. Where the ceiling is attached directly to the underside of the roof structure, smoke detectors shall be installed on the ceiling only.
Exception: Where the environment or ambient conditions exceed smoke detector installation guidelines; heat detectors or fire sprinklers shall be used.
907.2.3.6.2 Heat detectors. Heat detectors shall be installed in combustible spaces where sprinklers or smoke detectors are not installed.
907.2.3.7 Public school campuses. An automatic fire alarm system in compliance with Section 907.2.3 shall be provided in new buildings for all occupancies on Kindergarten through 12th grade public school campuses.
Exceptions: 1. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. Also see CCR, Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 2. A fire alarm system is not required for detached buildings designed and used for non-instructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occupancy. Buildings would include but not be limited to a:
Concession Stand
Press Box Restroom Facility Shade Structure
Snack Bar Storage Building Ticket Booth
907.2.3.8 Private schools. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in new buildings of private schools.
Exception: Automatic detection devices are not required where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed in accor- dance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
907.2.3.9 Day-care, Group E.
907.2.3.9.1 An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in all buildings used as or containing a Group E day-care.
Exception: Automatic detection devices are not required where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate on sprinkler water flow and manual activation is provided from a normally occupied location.
907.2.3.9.2 Smoke detectors shall be installed in every room used for sleeping or napping.
907.2.3.10 Day-care, Group E or Group I-4 located on a public school campus. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided in all buildings used as or containing a Group E or Group I-4 day-care.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-27
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
CEBC § 903.3.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.4.1 Manufacturing involving lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an airsampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area where lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries are manufactured; and where the manufacturer of vehicles, energy storage systems or equipment containing lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries when the batteries are installed as part of the manufacturing process.
[F] 907.2.5 Group H. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed for highly toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in accordance with Chapters 60, 62 and 63, respectively, of the California Fire Code .
907.2.5.1 Group H occupancies located on the 11th story and above. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be required on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier and at each exit on the 11th story and above.
[F] 907.2.6 Group I. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be provided in accordance with Sections 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2 and 907.2.6.3.3.
Exceptions: 1. Large family day-care. 2. Manual fire alarm boxes in sleeping units of Group I-2 occupancies shall not be required at exits if located at all care providers’ control stations or other constantly attended staff locations, provided that such manual fire alarm boxes are visible and provided with ready access, and the distances of travel required in Section 907.4.2.1 are not exceeded. 3. Occupant notification systems are not required to be activated where private mode signaling installed in accordance with NFPA 72 is approved by the fire code official and staff evacuation responsibilities are included in the fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 907.2.6.1 Reserved.
[F] 907.2.6.2 Group I-2. A manual and automatic fire alarm system shall be installed in Group I-2 occupancies. Where automatic fire suppression systems or smoke detectors are installed, such systems or detectors shall be connected to the building fire alarm system.
Exception: Where an entire facility is used for the housing of persons, none of whom are physically or mentally handicapped or nonambulatory, and are between the ages of 18 and 64, the buildings or structures comprising such facility shall be exempt from the provisions of this subsection relating to the installation of an automatic fire alarm system.
907.2.6.2.1 Notification. The fire alarm notification system shall be in accordance with Section 907.5.2.5.
Frequently asked questions
When CEBC § 904 says “in accordance with Section 903,” does that mean I always have to add sprinklers?
No. CEBC § 904.1 delegates the question of whether sprinklers are required to CBC § 903. You must check the CBC/CFC triggers (occupancy, area, height, hazard) in § 903 to determine whether sprinklers are required for your specific project.
My fire alarm will be offline during renovation; what does CEBC require?
CEBC § 904.2.1 requires that existing fire alarm and detection systems be maintained in accordance with CFC § 901.7 and that site fire protection during construction comply with Chapter 33. Follow the CFC procedures for notification and temporary protection (e.g., fire watch) — the CEBC points you to those CFC rules.
Does CEBC provide the technical design (sprinkler density, detector spacing)?
No. CEBC § 904 requires compliance with the technical rules already in the CBC and CFC (Sections 903 and 907). For densities, spacing, and device types you must use CBC/CFC design criteria.
Who enforces these CEBC cross‑references?
Local building and fire code officials enforce CEBC requirements and the referenced CBC/CFC sections. Engage the local enforcing agency early if a system will be out of service or a retrofit is proposed. CEBC § 904 makes following the referenced sections mandatory.
If the building is already fully sprinklered, do I still need new alarms when altering?
CEBC § 904.2 clarifies that fire alarm/detection must meet Section 907 as required for new construction. In many cases a building sprinkler system that actuates notification appliances may affect alarm requirements — see CBC § 907 for exceptions and integration rules. Confirm with the local authority.
More in California Existing Building Code
- Administration and Definitions (Scope, enforcement, code official duties, definitions)
- Provisions for All Compliance Methods (general requirements that apply to all compliance options; Chapter 3 / 3A)
- Seismic retrofit and evaluation (Appendix A and seismic provisions/sections for evaluation and retrofit)
- Referenced Standards and Appendices (Chapter 16 and Appendices A–E, Resource A)
- Repairs (Chapter 4 — repair-specific rules for materials, means of egress, structural, MEP, etc.)
- Alterations — Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 (technical requirements for each alteration level; Chapters 7–9)
- Change of Occupancy and Additions (requirements for occupancy changes and additions; Chapters 10–11)
- Compliance Methods — Prescriptive, Work Area, Performance (Chapters 5, 6–11, 13)
- Relocated Buildings (requirements for buildings moved or relocated; Chapter 14)
- Construction Safeguards (site safety, means of egress and life-safety during construction; Chapter 15)
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California Existing Building Code