CEBC · California Existing Building Code
When are sprinklers or fire alarm systems required for a change of occupancy?
If a space’s occupancy classification changes, the California Existing Building Code requires sprinklers or fire alarms whenever the new use would require them under the current CBC Chapter 9 or CFC Section 907; sprinklers must be installed at least in the change area and adjoining non‑fire‑walled areas, and removal of existing systems requires strict conditions and approval (see CEBC §§1011.2, 1011.2.1, 1011.2.2).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
When a building (or portion of a building) undergoes a change of occupancy classification, the California Existing Building Code requires that existing fire protection be brought into line with the protection required for the new occupancy where Chapter 9 of the California Building Code (CBC) or the fire‑protection thresholds change. Specifically, an automatic sprinkler system is required when the new occupancy (or a different Chapter 9 threshold inside the space) would require sprinklers for new construction (§1011.2.1) and a fire alarm and detection system is required where the new occupancy triggers a fire‑alarm requirement under Chapter 11/Section 907 of the California Fire Code (§1011.2.2) .
Most important: If Chapter 9 (for sprinklers) or Section 907/Chapter 11 of the Fire Code (for alarms) requires the system for the new occupancy, you must provide it for the area of the change (and adjoining areas not separated by a firewall) — CEBC §§1011.2.1 and 1011.2.2.
Requirements in detail
Core trigger
- The CEBC ties the obligation to the requirements for new construction in the CBC/Fire Code: if the new occupancy would require sprinklers or fire alarms under the current Chapter 9 (CBC) or Section 907/Chapter 11 (CFC), the same systems must be provided for the change of occupancy under the CEBC. See §1011.2, §1011.2.1, and §1011.2.2.
Where the systems must be installed
- For sprinklers: the automatic sprinkler system is required “within the area of the change of occupancy and areas of the building not separated by a fire wall from the change of occupancy” — §1011.2.1.
- For fire alarm/detection: the required system must be provided “in accordance with Chapter 11 and Section 907 of the California Fire Code” when the new occupancy requires such a system — §1011.2.2.
Table — Decision‑relevant dimensions
| Decision dimension | Key values / what to check | What it means | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Does new occupancy require sprinklers for new construction? | Check Chapter 9 of the California Building Code for the new occupancy (varies by occupancy, area, height, etc.) | If YES → automatic sprinkler system required for the change area and contiguous non‑fire‑walled areas | §1011.2.1 |
| Is the change inside a space where Chapter 9 threshold differs from existing? | Any change “within the space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9” | If thresholds differ → apply sprinkler requirement where Chapter 9 would require it for the new use | §1011.2.1 |
| Does new occupancy require a fire alarm/detection system? | Check Chapter 11 and Section 907 of the California Fire Code for the new occupancy (occupant load, use group, etc.) | If YES → provide alarm/detection per CFC requirements (Chapter 11 / §907) | §1011.2.2 |
| Extent of sprinkler installation | “Within the area of the change of occupancy and areas … not separated by a fire wall” | Sprinklers may not always be required for the entire building — install at minimum for the change area and adjacent non‑separated areas | §1011.2.1 |
| Removal of existing sprinkler systems | Only allowed by the code official where specific conditions are met (see three conditions) | If system is not required for new construction, public‑exposed portions removed, and it wasn’t installed for special life‑safety reasons, removal may be permitted with approval | §1011.2.1.1 / §1011.2.1.1.1 |
Nonrequired automatic sprinkler systems — removal and approval
- The CEBC authorizes the code official to permit removal of an existing sprinkler system only when all of these apply:
- The system is not required for new construction;
- Portions of the system exposed to the public are removed; and
- The system was not installed as part of any special construction features, occupancy conditions, means of egress, code deficiencies, approved modifications/alternatives, or equipment requirements. See §1011.2.1.1.
- Documentation (plans, investigations, evaluations) must be submitted to support removal and obtain approval — §1011.2.1.1.1.
Fire alarm system standard and exceptions
- When a fire alarm is required by a change of occupancy, it must comply with the California Fire Code — Chapter 11 and Section 907 (notification, detection, annunciation, monitoring, etc.) as referenced by §1011.2.2 of the CEBC. The CEBC does not restate the CFC thresholds; it ties the requirement to those CFC provisions. §1011.2.2
- Note: the Fire Code contains specific thresholds and some exceptions (for example, certain occupancies or when an approved sprinkler system will activate notification appliances on waterflow). Always read Section 907 and related CBC/CFC sections for the numeric/occupant‑load triggers and exceptions. See the California Fire Code (Section 907) for those details.
Exceptions & special cases
- Removal of existing sprinklers is controlled and limited — see §1011.2.1.1 and the required submittal and approval process in §1011.2.1.1.1; you cannot unilaterally remove life‑safety systems just because the building is being altered.
- The CEBC delegates the actual thresholds (occupant load, area, height, use group) that trigger sprinklers or alarms to the current CBC and CFC; the CEBC itself implements those triggers for changes of occupancy (i.e., CEBC says “apply CBC/CFC” but does not reprint each numeric threshold). See §1011.2.1 and §1011.2.2.
- Where the Fire Code specifies that alarm detection devices are not required if an approved sprinkler system is installed and notification appliances will activate on sprinkler waterflow, that Fire Code exception may apply — but CEBC still requires compliance with the Fire Code method called out in §1011.2.2. See CFC Section 907 for those exceptions.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the entire building must always be sprinklered: CEBC requires sprinklers in the area of the change and areas not separated by a firewall, not necessarily the whole building — §1011.2.1.
- Removing an existing sprinkler system without following the CEBC removal conditions and obtaining approval — check §1011.2.1.1 and submit required documentation per §1011.2.1.1.1.
- Treating CEBC as a standalone “new thresholds” code: the CEBC defers to CBC Chapter 9 and CFC Section 907 for which occupancies/conditions require sprinklers or alarms — always check those chapters in conjunction with CEBC §1011.2–§1011.2.2.
- Forgetting that fire alarm design and installation must follow the Fire Code (Chapter 11 / Section 907) even when required by CEBC — CEBC §1011.2.2 explicitly requires compliance with those Fire Code provisions.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: You plan to convert a tenant space from an office (Group B) to an assembly (Group A) use with an expected occupant load of 350.
Step 1 — identify the triggers:
- Fire alarm: the California Fire Code requires a manual fire alarm system in Group A where the assembly occupant load is 300 or more (see CFC §907.2.1 for Group A thresholds). Because the new load is 350, the change would trigger a fire alarm requirement under the Fire Code; the CEBC then requires that alarm for the change of occupancy per §1011.2.2.
Step 2 — sprinklers:
- Check Chapter 9 of the California Building Code to determine whether the new Group A space would require sprinklers for new construction (CBC Chapter 9 thresholds vary by occupancy, area, and other factors). If Chapter 9 shows that a Group A occupancy of that size requires sprinklers, then CEBC §1011.2.1 requires an automatic sprinkler system in the change area and in adjoining areas not separated by a firewall. If Chapter 9 would not require sprinklers for this specific configuration, then sprinklers would not be required by CEBC for the change (unless other code triggers apply). §1011.2.1
Step 3 — scope and plan review:
- Design the alarm per the Fire Code (Chapter 11 / §907) and determine the exact sprinkler scope per CBC Chapter 9; submit plans and any necessary evaluations to the AHJ since CEBC requires compliance with those sections when a change of occupancy triggers them. §1011.2.1, §1011.2.2
Related provisions (CEBC sections)
- §1011.1 — General scope for change of occupancy provisions (applies to buildings/portions when occupancy classification changes).
- §1011.2 — Fire protection systems (introduces §§1011.2.1 and 1011.2.2).
- §1011.2.1 — Automatic sprinkler system requirements for change of occupancy.
- §1011.2.1.1 — Authority and conditions for removal of existing nonrequired automatic sprinkler systems.
- §1011.2.1.1.1 — Approval and documentation required if removal of sprinklers is requested.
- §1011.2.2 — Fire alarm and detection system requirement; ties to CFC Chapter 11 and §907.
- §1011.3 — Interior finish requirements for areas undergoing change of occupancy.
- §1011.5 / §1011.5.1 — Means of egress and hazard category considerations when changing to a higher‑hazard category.
- §307.1 — Smoke alarm requirements for changes to Group R and I‑1 occupancies (related fire‑alarm/smoke detection topic).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1009.3 High relevance — show source text
1009.3 Interceptor required. If the new occupancy will produce grease or oil-laden wastes, interceptors shall be provided as required in the California Plumbing Code .
1009.4 Chemical wastes. If the new occupancy will produce chemical wastes, the following shall apply:
- If the existing piping is not compatible with the chemical waste, the waste shall be neutralized prior to entering the drainage system or the piping shall be changed to a compatible material.
- Chemical waste shall not discharge to a public sewer system without the approval of the sewage authority.
SECTION 1010—OTHER REQUIREMENTS
1010.1 Light and ventilation. Light and ventilation shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for the new
occupancy.
SECTION 1011—CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
1011.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to buildings or portions thereof undergoing a change of occupancy classification. This includes a change of occupancy classification within a group as well as a change of occupancy classification from one group to a different group. The provisions of this section shall also apply where there is a change of occupancy within a building or portion thereof and there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of the current California Building Code than exists in the current building or space. Such buildings shall also comply with Sections 1002 through 1010 of this code.
1011.2 Fire protection systems. Fire protection systems shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1011.2.1 and 1011.2.2.
1011.2.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The installation of an automatic sprinkler system shall be required where there is a change of occupancy classification and Chapter 9 of the current California Building Code requires an automatic sprinkler system based on the new occupancy or where there is a change of occupancy within the space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of the current California Building Code than exists in the current building or space . The installation of the automatic sprinkler system shall be required within the area of the change of occupancy and areas of the building not separated by a fire wall from the change of occupancy.
1011.2.1.1 Nonrequired automatic sprinkler systems. The code official is authorized to permit the removal of an existing automatic sprinkler system where all of the following conditions exist:
- The system is not required for new construction.
- Portions of the system that are exposed to the public are removed.
- The system was not installed as part of any special construction features, including fire-resistance-rated assemblies and smoke-resistive assemblies, conditions of occupancy, means of egress conditions, fire code deficiencies, approved modifications or approved alternative materials, design and methods of construction, and equipment applying to the building.
1011.2.1.1.1 Approval. Plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted documenting compliance with Section 1011.2.1.1 for review and approval in support of a determination authorizing the removal of the automatic sprinkler system by the code official.
1011.2.2 Fire alarm and detection system. Where a change in occupancy classification occurs or where there is a change of occupancy within a space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of the current Cali- fornia Building Code than exists in the current building or space that requires a fire alarm and detection system to be provided based on the new occupancy, such system shall be in accordance with Chapter 11 and Section 907 of the California Fire Code.
CEBC § 1011.2.1.1 High relevance — show source text
1011.2.1.1 Nonrequired automatic sprinkler systems. The code official is authorized to permit the removal of an existing automatic sprinkler system where all of the following conditions exist:
- The system is not required for new construction.
- Portions of the system that are exposed to the public are removed.
- The system was not installed as part of any special construction features, including fire-resistance-rated assemblies and smoke-resistive assemblies, conditions of occupancy, means of egress conditions, fire code deficiencies, approved modifications or approved alternative materials, design and methods of construction, and equipment applying to the building.
1011.2.1.1.1 Approval. Plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted documenting compliance with Section 1011.2.1.1 for review and approval in support of a determination authorizing the removal of the automatic sprinkler system by the code official.
1011.2.2 Fire alarm and detection system. Where a change in occupancy classification occurs or where there is a change of occupancy within a space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of the current Cali- fornia Building Code than exists in the current building or space that requires a fire alarm and detection system to be provided based on the new occupancy, such system shall be in accordance with Chapter 11 and Section 907 of the California Fire Code.
1011.3 Interior finish. In areas of the building undergoing the change of occupancy classification, the interior finish of walls and ceilings shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for the new occupancy classification.
1011.4 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.
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CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
1011.5 Means of egress, general. Hazard categories in regard to life safety and means of egress shall be in accordance with Table 1011.5.
TABLE 1011.5—MEANS OF EGRESS HAZARD CATEGORIES Col2 RELATIVE HAZARD OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATIONS 1 (Highest Hazard) H (Not Allowed) 2 I-2; I-3; I-4_(Not Allowed)_ 3 A; E; M; R-1; R-2; R-4 4 B; F-1; R-3; R-4, S-1 5 (Lowest Hazard) F-2; S-2; U 1011.5.1 Means of egress for change to a higher-hazard category. Where a change of occupancy classification is made to a higher-hazard category (lower number) as shown in Table 1011.5, the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code .
Exceptions:
- Stairways shall be enclosed in compliance with the applicable provisions of Section 903.1.
CEBC § 313.13.1 High relevance — show source text
313.13.1 General. Regardless of other provisions of these regulations relating to existing high-rise buildings, requirements relative to existing Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall not be less restrictive than those established pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.2.
313.13.2 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls and ceilings shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors, [ 1] / 4 -inch-thick (6 mm) wired glass conforming to Section 715.1 of the California Building Code, by approved fire dampers or by equivalent protection in lieu of any of these items. Transoms shall be fixed closed with material having a fire-resistive rating equal to [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard or equivalent material installed on both sides of the opening.
313.13.3 Fire alarm systems. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 403 of the California Building Code, every existing high-rise building used for the housing of a Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall have installed therein a fire alarm system conforming to this subsection.
313.13.3.1 General. Every apartment house and every hotel shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously.
313.13.3.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.
313.13.3.3 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in any structure subject to these regulations shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected to the required fire alarm system.
SECTION 314 [SFM]—EXISTING HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
314.1 Scope and definition. The provisions of Sections 314.1 through 314.27 shall apply to every existing high-rise building of any type of construction or occupancy having floors (as measured from the top of the floor surface) used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest floor level having building access.
Exceptions: 1. Hospitals, as defined in Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code. 2. The following structures, while classified as high-rise buildings, shall not be subject to the provisions of Sections 314.1 through 314.27, but shall conform to all applicable provisions of these regulations. 2.1. Building used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.2. Buildings where all floors above the 75 foot (22 860 mm) level are used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.3. Floors of buildings used exclusively as open parking garages and located above all other floors used for human
occupancy. 2.4. Buildings such as power plants, look-out towers, steeples, grain houses and similar structures, when so determined by the enforcing agency. 2.5. _Buildings used exclusively for jails and prisons.
CEBC § 450.1 High relevance — show source text
**_ All libraries funded for new construction, including additions, shall have automatic fire sprinkler systems installed. 2. Fire sprinkler system requirement for renovations of existing facilities. If there is no automatic fire sprinkler system in the existing facility, grant recipients shall be required to install a fire sprinkler system throughout the existing facility. 3. Fire sprinkler system types. The grant recipient may choose, on approval by the local fire authority, from wet-pipe, dry-pipe or pre-action systems, utilizing listed standard, early suppression fast response (ESFR), or on/off type sprinkler heads. 4. Book return rooms and slots. Book return rooms with slots in exterior walls shall have an automatic sprinkler head and be of approved fire-resistive construction. Book return slots and book drops shall have an additional automatic sprinkler head when shielded from the room sprinkler head. 5. System monitoring requirement. All fire protection systems shall be monitored by a fire alarm supervising station in accor- dance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72. 6. Alternate fire-extinguishing systems for specialized areas. When approved by the fire authority having jurisdiction, other types of approved automatic fire-extinguishing systems may be utilized as an alternate to sprinklers in the following areas: rare book rooms, central computer rooms and telecommunication rooms. 7. Automatic sprinkler system plan requirement. Fire sprinkler system drawings shall use the furniture plan as a background for coordination with furniture and book stack location and height.
SECTION 450—GROUP C [SFM]
450.1 Group C Occupancies defined.
450.1.1 Organized camps. For the purposes of these regulations, Group C Occupancies shall mean “organized camps” as defined in Section 18897, Health and Safety Code.
450.1.1.1 Description. An organized camp is a site with programs and facilities established for the primary purpose of providing an outdoor group living experience with social, spiritual, educational or recreational objectives, for five days or more during one or more seasons of the year.
The term “organized camp” does not include a motel, tourist camp, trailer park, resort, hunting camp, auto court, labor camp, penal or correctional camp, child-care institution or home-finding agency nor does it include any charitable or recreational orga- nization which complies with the rules and regulations for recreational trailer parks provided for by Section 18301 (b), Health and Safety Code.
450.1.2 Tents and tent structures. For the purpose of this chapter, a tent or tent structure is defined as any shelter of which 25 percent or more of the walls or roof, or both, are constructed of, or covered or protected by, a canvas or any other fabric material.
450.2 Purpose and intent. The provisions of this section are established to provide fire and life safety in organized camps, but at the same time preserve the basic concept of outdoor living. It is the intent of this section that organized camps shall be considered as a sepa- rate and distinct occupancy.
450.3 Basic building and structures.
450.3.1 Building classification. Every building or structure shall be classified into the occupancy group they most nearly resemble and be constructed in accordance with appropriate occupancy requirements specified in this part.
CEBC § 314.6 High relevance — show source text
All other vertical openings shall be enclosed in accordance with the provisions of Section 314.6 and_ 314.13.
315.4 Exit access. Each floor or portion thereof of buildings used for the housing of existing protective social-care homes or facilities shall have access to not less than two exits in such a manner as to furnish egress from the building or structure in the event of an emergency substantially equivalent to the provisions of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code. 315.5 Corridor openings. Openings from rooms to interior corridors shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors. Transoms and other similar openings shall be sealed with materials equivalent to existing corridor wall construction.
315.6 Interior finishes. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall conform to the requirements for a Group R-1 Occupancy as specified in Chapter 8 of the California Building Code.
315.7 Automatic fire sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care occupancies in accordance with the provisions of Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code.
315.8 Fire alarm systems. Automatic fire alarm systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care homes or facilities in accordance with the provisions of Section 907.2.6 of the California Building Code.
Exception: When an approved automatic sprinkler system conforming to Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code is installed, a separate fire alarm system as specified in this section need not be provided.
SECTION 316 [SFM]—EXISTING GROUP L OCCUPANCIES
316.1 Repairs general. Additions, alterations or repairs may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all the requirements of this code section, provided the addition, alteration or repair conforms to the requirements of this section.
316.2 Unsafe condition. Additions, repairs or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure that will cause the existing building or structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code, nor shall such additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe, or to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate egress in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
316.3 Changes in use or occupancy. Any buildings that have alternations or additions, which involves a change in use or occupancy, shall not exceed the height, number of stories and area permitted for new buildings.
316.4 Buildings not in compliance with code. Additions or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure when such existing building or structure is not in full compliance with the provisions of this code except when such addition or alteration will result in the existing building or structure being no more hazardous, based on life safety, fire safety and sanitation, than before such additions or alterations are undertaken.
CEBC § 44.5 High relevance — show source text
In_ these instances, floor separations or smoke barriers shall have a fire resistance equal to not less than [1] / 2 -inch (13 mm) gypsum wall board on each side of wood studs with openings protected by not less than a 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid bonded wood-core door of the self- closing type. All other vertical openings shall be enclosed in accordance with the provisions of Sections 1114.6 and 1114.13.
1115.4 Exit access. Each floor or portion thereof of buildings used for the housing of existing protective social-care homes or facilities shall have access to not less than two exits in such a manner as to furnish egress from the building or structure in the event of an emer- gency substantially equivalent to the provisions of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code. 1115.5 Corridor openings. Openings from rooms to interior corridors shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid-bonded wood-core doors. Transoms and other similar openings shall be sealed with materials equivalent to existing corridor wall construction.
1115.6 Interior finishes. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall conform to the requirements for a Group R-1 Occupancy as specified in Chapter 8 of the California Building Code.
1115.7 Automatic fire sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care occupancies in accor- dance with the provisions of Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code.
1115.8 Fire alarm systems. Automatic fire alarm systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care homes or facilities in accor- dance with the provisions of Section 907.2.6 of the California Building Code.
Exception: When an approved automatic sprinkler system conforming to Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code is installed, a separate fire alarm system as specified in this section need not be provided.
SECTION 1116—EXISTING GROUP L AND GROUP H-8 OCCUPANCIES [SFM]
1116.1 Repairs general. Additions, alterations or repairs may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing build- ing or structure to comply with all the requirements of this code section, provided the addition, alteration or repair conforms to the requirements of this section.
1116.2 Unsafe condition. Additions, repairs or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure that will cause the exist- ing building or structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code, nor shall such additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe, or to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate egress in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
1116.3 Changes in use or occupancy. Any buildings that have alternations or additions, which involves a change in use or occupancy, shall not exceed the height, number of stories and area permitted for new buildings.
CEBC § 907.2.3.2 High relevance — show source text
2. There is a method of two-way communication between each classroom and the school administrative office approved by the fire enforcing agency; and 3. A method of manual activation of each fire alarm system is provided.
907.2.3.2 Assemblies located within a Group E occupancy. Assembly occupancies with an occupant load of less than 1,000 and located within a Group E occupancy campus or building shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E
occupancy.
907.2.3.3 Notification. The fire alarm system notification shall comply with the requirements of Section 907.5.
907.2.3.4 Annunciation. Annunciation of the fire alarm system shall comply with the requirements of Section 907.6.4.1.
907.2.3.5 Monitoring . School fire alarm systems shall be monitored in accordance with Section 907.6.6.4.
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:
Concession Stand
Press Box
Restroom Facilities
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
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.
CEBC § 9-43 High relevance — show source text
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
907.2.7 Group M. Fire alarm systems shall be required in Group M occupancies in accordance with Sections 907.2.7.1 and 907.2.7.2.
907.2.7.1 Occupant load. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
- The combined Group M occupant load of all floors is 500 or more persons.
- The Group M occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in covered or open mall buildings complying with Section 402 of the California Building Code .
- 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 automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.7.1.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a waterflow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
907.2.7.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed in a room or space within a Group M occupancy where required for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320.
907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. 2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
CEBC § 9-39 High relevance — show source text
Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-39
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency. Exceptions:
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is open to the public. 3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official. 907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the California Building Code shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 1000 shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy. Exceptions:
- 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.
- Manual fire alarm boxes and the associated occupant notification system or emergency voice/alarm communication system are not required for Group A-5 outdoor bleacher-type seating having an occupant load of greater than or equal to 300 and less than 15,000 occupants, provided that all of the following are met: 2.1. A public address system with standby power is provided. 2.2. Enclosed spaces attached to or within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the outdoor bleacher type seating compose, in the aggregate, a maximum of 10 percent of the overall area of the outdoor bleacher-type seating or 1,000 square feet (92.9 m [2] ), whichever is less. 2.3. Enclosed accessory spaces under or attached to the outdoor bleacher-type seating shall be separated from the bleacher-type seating in accordance with Section 1030.1.1.1. 2.4. All means of egress from the bleacher-type seating are open to the outside.
- Manual fire alarm boxes and the associated occupant notification system or emergency voice/alarm communication system are not required for temporary Group A-5 outdoor bleacher-type seating, provided that all of the following are met: 3.1. There are no enclosed spaces under or attached to the outdoor bleacher-type seating. 3.2. The bleacher-type seating is erected for a period of less than 180 days. 3.3.
CEBC § 907.1.4 High relevance — show source text
[F] 907.1.4 Fire-walls and fire barrier walls. For the purpose of Section 907 fire walls and fire barrier walls shall not define separate buildings.
[F] 907.1.5 Fire alarm use. A fire alarm system shall not be used for any purpose other than fire warning or mass notification and where permitted by NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2 Where required—new buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.29 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.
Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency.
Exceptions:
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm control units dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is open to the public. 3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official.
[F] 907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 1,000, shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exceptions:
- 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-25
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- Manual fire alarm boxes and the associated occupant notification system or emergency voice/alarm communication system are not required for Group A-5 outdoor bleacher-type seating having an occupant load of greater than or equal to 300 and less than 15,000 occupants, provided that all of the following are met: 2.1. A public address system with standby power is provided. 2.2.
CEBC § 34.9 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions: 1. Existing solid-bonded wood-core doors 1 [3] / 8 inches thick (34.9 mm), or their equivalent may be continued in use. 2. Where the existing frame will not accommodate a door complying with Section 708.6 of the California Building Code, a 1 [3] / 8 - inch-thick (35 mm) solid-bonded wood-core door may be used.
313.8 Exit signs. Every exit doorway or change of direction of a corridor shall be marked with a well-lighted exit sign having letters at least 5 inches (127 mm) high.
313.9 Enclosure of vertical openings. Elevators, shafts, ducts and other vertical openings shall be enclosed as required for stairways in Section 313.4 or by wired glass set in metal frames. Doors shall be noncombustible or as regulated in Section 313.4.
313.10 Separation of occupancies. Occupancy separations shall be provided as specified in Section 508 of the California Building Code. Lobbies and public dining rooms, not including cocktail lounges, shall not require a separation if the kitchen is so separated from the dining room. Every room containing a boiler or central heating plant shall be separated from the rest of the building by not less than a one-hour fire-resistive occupancy separation.
Exception: A separation shall not be required for such rooms with equipment serving only one dwelling unit.
313.11 Equivalent protection. In lieu of the separation of occupancies required by Section 313.10, equivalent protection may be permitted when approved by the enforcement agency.
Exception: The provisions of Sections 313.3 through 313.11 above shall not apply to any existing apartment house, hotel or motel having floors (as measured from the top of the floor surface) used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest floor level having building access which is subject to the provisions of Section 314 and the California Fire Code
, relating to existing high-rise buildings.Note: In accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17920.7, the provisions of Sections 313.3 through 313.11 above shall apply only to multiple-story structures existing on January 1, 1975, let for human habitation including, and limited to, apartments, houses, hotels and motels wherein rooms used for sleeping are let above the ground floor.
313.12 Fire alarms.
313.12.1 General. Every apartment house three or more stories in height or containing more than 15 apartments, every hotel three or more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously and shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code. See Section 314.14 for special requirements in buildings over 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height.
CEBC § 1113.12.2 High relevance — show source text
_ provided they do not unduly impair the required fire resistance of the assembly. 6. Tolerances around such penetrations shall be filled with approved noncombustible materials.
1113.12.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.
1113.13 Existing Group R Occupancy high-rise buildings.
1113.13.1 General. Regardless of other provisions of these regulations relating to existing high-rise buildings, requirements relative to existing Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall not be less restrictive than those established pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.2.
1113.13.2 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls and ceilings shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors, [1] / 4 -inch-thick (6 mm) wired glass conforming to Section 715.1 of the California Building Code, by approved fire dampers or by equivalent protection in lieu of any of these items. Transoms shall be fixed closed with material having a fire-resis- tive rating equal to [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard or equivalent material installed on both sides of the opening.
1113.13.3 Fire alarm systems. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 403 of the California Building Code, every existing high-rise building used for the housing of a Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall have installed therein a fire alarm system conforming to this subsection.
1113.13.3.1 General. Every apartment house and every hotel shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously.
1113.13.3.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.
1113.13.3.3 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in any structure subject to these regula- tions shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected to the required fire alarm system.
SECTION 1114—EXISTING HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS [SFM]
1114.1 Scope and definition. The provisions of Sections 1114.1 through 1114.27 shall apply to every existing high-rise building of any type of construction or occupancy having floors (as measured from the top of the floor surface) used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest floor level having building access.
Exceptions: 1. Hospitals, as defined in Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code. 2. The following structures, while classified as high-rise buildings, shall not be subject to the provisions of Sections 1114.1 through 1114.27, but shall conform to all applicable provisions of these regulations. 2.1. Building used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.2. Buildings where all floors above the 75 foot (22 860 mm) level are used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.3. Floors of buildings used exclusively as open parking garages and located above all other floors used for human
occupancy.
Frequently asked questions
When exactly does the CEBC force sprinkler installation for a change of occupancy?
When the new occupancy would require an automatic sprinkler system under the current Chapter 9 of the California Building Code (or where the change occurs in a space with a different Chapter 9 threshold), the CEBC requires sprinklers for the change area and areas not separated by a firewall — §1011.2.1.
Do I have to sprinkler the entire building if one tenant changes use?
Not necessarily. The CEBC requires sprinklers “within the area of the change of occupancy and areas of the building not separated by a fire wall.” You must analyze separation (fire walls) and Chapter 9 triggers to determine how far the sprinkler system must extend — §1011.2.1.
Can I remove an existing sprinkler system instead of adding one for the new occupancy?
Removal is possible only if the conditions in §1011.2.1.1 are all met and the code official approves after submission of supporting plans/reports per §1011.2.1.1.1. You must show the system is not required for new construction, remove public‑exposed portions, and demonstrate it wasn’t installed for special life‑safety reasons.
Where do I find the numeric triggers (occupant loads, area, height) that cause the sprinkler or alarm requirement?
Those numeric triggers live in the California Building Code (Chapter 9) for sprinklers and in the California Fire Code (Section 907 / Chapter 11) for alarms. The CEBC provisions §1011.2.1 and §1011.2.2 require application of those chapters when a change of occupancy occurs.
If a fire alarm is required, what standard do I design to?
Design and installation must follow Chapter 11 and Section 907 of the California Fire Code, as required by CEBC §1011.2.2.
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