CEBC · California Existing Building Code
What are the owner's responsibilities for fire protection during construction?
Before a permit is issued the owner must submit and maintain an approved, written site safety plan that covers fire prevention (hot work, extinguishers, access, waste control, etc.) and must designate a site safety director who enforces the plan on site.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The owner (or the owner’s authorized agent) must develop, implement and maintain an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention program for the project site and must submit that plan for approval before a building permit is issued — § 1502.1. The owner must also designate a site safety director who is responsible for ensuring compliance with the plan and who has authority to enforce the chapter’s provisions — § 1502.2. The site safety plan must address the items listed in § 1502.1.1 and be consistent with the applicable portions of the California Fire Code.
The single most important rule: the owner is responsible to provide an approved, written site safety (fire prevention) plan and a designated site safety director before the permit is issued.
Requirements in detail
Owner-level duties (plain list)
- Develop, implement and maintain an approved, written site safety plan applicable to all phases of construction, repair, alteration or demolition — § 1502.1.
- Submit the site safety plan for approval before a building permit is issued; any changes must address Chapter 15 and applicable California Fire Code provisions — § 1502.1.
- Designate a site safety director who ensures compliance, enforces the plan and (where guard service is required) oversees guard service — § 1502.2.
What the site safety plan must include (at minimum, as applicable)
The code lists specific components the plan must include; the list is not optional where the item is applicable to the project — § 1502.1.1.
| Decision dimension | What the owner must provide / decide | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Plan required? | Yes — an approved, written site safety plan for all phases | § 1502.1 |
| Timing | Submitted and approved before building permit issuance | § 1502.1 |
| Plan approval authority | Submitted for approval in accordance with the California Fire Code | § 1502.1 |
| Personnel | Name and contact of the site safety director; training documentation for site safety director and fire-watch personnel | § 1502.1.1 (1–2) |
| Emergency procedures | Procedures for reporting emergencies; fire department vehicle access routes | § 1502.1.1 (3–4) |
| Fire protection equipment | Location of portable extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections, hydrants | § 1502.1.1 (5) |
| Ignition & fuel control | Smoking/cooking policy, temporary heating, hot-work permit plan, control of combustible waste, storage/use of flammable liquids | § 1502.1.1 (6–10) |
| Security & monitoring | Provisions for site security and fire watch where required | § 1502.1.1 (11) |
| Plan updates | Process to submit changes that affect the plan | § 1502.1.1 (12) |
| Other | Any other site‑specific info required by the California Fire Code | § 1502.1.1 (13) |
Duties of the Site Safety Director
- The owner shall designate the site safety director. The director is responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan and has authority to enforce Chapter 15 provisions on site — § 1502.2.
- The director must ensure training documentation exists for the director and any fire-watch personnel as required by § 1502.1.1.
Exceptions & special cases
- The plan and its components are required “as applicable” — the code recognizes not every listed item will apply to every job; the owner must include only those items that are relevant to the project conditions — § 1502.1.1. .
- The site safety plan must be approved in accordance with the California Fire Code; local fire code requirements and procedures for submittal/review apply — § 1502.1. .
- If local enforcement or the California Fire Code requires additional site‑specific items (for example, fire-flow, standpipe timing, or fire-watch frequencies), those must be incorporated into the plan; those specifics are governed by the Fire Code and not enumerated in § 1502.1.
If a required detail (for example, numeric distances between extinguishers, fire‑flow values, or exact fire‑watch staffing levels) is not stated in § 1502.1 / § 1502.1.1, consult the applicable sections of the California Fire Code and the local enforcement agency for the numeric requirements — the CEBC text directs submittal/approval per the Fire Code.
Common mistakes
- Submitting the site safety plan after permit issuance or assuming the contractor’s plan alone satisfies the owner obligation — the owner’s approved plan must be in place before the permit is issued (§ 1502.1).
- Omitting the site safety director or failing to document the director’s training and authority — the owner must designate and empower this person (§ 1502.2, § 1502.1.1 (1–2)).
- Treating the checklist in § 1502.1.1 as optional; the code requires those components as applicable and explicitly lists them to shape the approved plan.
- Assuming the CEBC alone sets all numeric standards (e.g., fire‑flow, extinguisher spacing) — the CEBC delegates many detailed numeric requirements to the California Fire Code; coordinate submittal and content with the Fire Code’s requirements.
Worked example — applying the rule with concrete steps
Scenario: A homeowner is converting an existing two‑story commercial building (alteration and partial demolition) and will apply for a building permit.
- Before the permit is issued, the homeowner (owner) prepares a written site safety plan that lists: the name and contact for the site safety director, documented training for that director and any planned fire-watch personnel, procedures for reporting emergencies, the planned fire department access route, locations for portable fire extinguishers and the existing fire department connection, a hot‑work permit plan for welding/cutting, and plans for control/removal of combustible waste — matching the items in § 1502.1.1.
- The owner submits the plan to the local fire authority for approval at the same time as (or prior to) the building permit application so that approval is obtained before permit issuance as required by § 1502.1.
- The owner formally designates a site safety director (Jane Doe) on the plan and attaches training documentation; Jane Doe is given authority to stop unsafe hot-work and to require additional fire-watch staffing if the fire official so directs — addressing § 1502.2 and training documentation in § 1502.1.1.
- If the local fire official requires additional details (for example, minimum number of extinguishers or a fire‑watch schedule), the owner updates the plan and resubmits per the California Fire Code direction in § 1502.1.
Related provisions
- § 1501.1 — Scope: Chapter governs safety during construction and references the California Fire Code.
- § 1501.4 — Maintenance of exits, structural elements and fire protection devices during alterations/repairs.
- § 1502.1.1 — Components required in the site safety plan (detailed list).
- § 1502.2 — Requirement to designate the site safety director and the director’s enforcement authority.
- Chapter 15 (Construction Safeguards) generally — correlates with California Building Code Chapter 33 and California Fire Code Chapter 33 for details and enforcement.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1501.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 1501—GENERAL
[BG] 1501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern safety during construction and the protection of adjacent public and private properties. Fire safety during construction shall also comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code.
[BG] 1501.2 Storage and placement of construction equipment and materials. Construction equipment and materials shall be stored and placed so as not to endanger the public, the workers or adjoining property for the duration of the construction project.
[BS] 1501.3 Roof loads. Structural roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof-covering system and the material and equipment loads that will be encountered during installation of the system.
[BG] 1501.4 Maintenance of exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards. Required exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards shall be maintained at all times during alterations, repairs or additions to any building or structure.
Exceptions:
- Where such required elements or devices are being altered or repaired, adequate substitute provisions shall be made.
- Maintenance of such elements and devices is not required where the existing building is not occupied.
[BG] 1501.5 Removal of waste materials. Waste materials shall be removed in a manner that prevents injury or damage to persons, adjoining properties and public rights-of-way.
SECTION 1502—OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
[F] 1502.1 Site safety plan. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention program at the project site applicable throughout all phases of the construction, repair, alteration or demolition work. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued, Any changes to the plan shall address the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of the California Fire Code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted for approval in accordance with the California Fire Code .
[F] 1502.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following as applicable:
Name and contact information of site safety director.
Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.
Procedures for reporting emergencies.
Fire department vehicle access routes.
Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.
Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.
Hot work permit plan.
Plans for control of combustible waste material.
Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.
Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.
Changes that affect this plan.
Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .
[F] 1502.2 Site safety director. The owner shall designate a person to be the site safety director. The site safety director shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan. The site safety director shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard service is provided in accordance with the California Fire Code, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.
CEBC § 3301.1 High relevance — show source text
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [F] will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. All other code change proposals will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 3301—GENERAL
3301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern safety during construction and the protection of adjacent public and private properties. Fire safety during construction shall also comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code .
3301.2 Storage and placement of construction equipment and materials. Construction equipment and materials shall be stored and placed so as not to endanger the public, the workers or adjoining property for the duration of the construction project.
[BS] 3301.3 Roof loads. Structural roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof-covering system and the material and equipment loads that will be encountered during installation of the system.
3301.4 Maintenance of exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards. Required exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards shall be maintained at all times during alterations, repairs or additions to any building or structure.
Exceptions:
- Where such required elements or devices are being altered or repaired, adequate substitute provisions shall be made.
- Maintenance of such elements and devices is not required where the existing building is not occupied.
3301.5 Removal of waste materials Waste materials shall be removed in a manner that prevents injury or damage to persons, adjacent properties and public rights-of-way.
SECTION 3302—OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
3302.1 Site safety plan. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention program at the project site applicable throughout all phases of the construction, repair, alteration or demolition work. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued. Any changes to the plan shall address the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of the Califor- nia Fire Code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted for approval in accordance with the California Fire Code .
3302.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following, as applicable:
Name and contact information of site safety director.
Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.
Procedures for reporting emergencies.
Fire department vehicle access routes.
Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.
Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved, and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code.
Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.
Hot-work permit plan.
Plans for control of combustible waste material.
Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.
Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.
Changes that affect this plan.
Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 33-3
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SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION
CEBC § 13-4 High relevance — show source text
1304 Investigation and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1305 Scoring and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1306 Building Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
1307 Evaluation of Building Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
CHAPTER 14 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS . . . . . . 14-3
1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1402 Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
CHAPTER 15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1502 Owner’s Responsibility for Fire Protection . . . . . . . 15-3
1503 Sanitary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4
1504 Protection of Pedestrians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4
1505 Protection of Adjoining Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-5
1506 Temporary Use of Streets, Alleys and Public Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1507 Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1508 Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1509 Standpipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1510 Automatic Sprinkler System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1511 Accessibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7
1512 Water Supply for Fire Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7
CHAPTER 16 REFERENCED STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-3
APPENDIX A GUIDELINES FOR THE SEISMIC RETROFIT
CFC § 315 High relevance — show source text
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Chapter 32 High-Piled Combustible Storage
Chapter 32 provides guidance for reasonable protection of life from hazards associated with the storage of combustible materials in closely packed piles or on pallets, in racks, or on shelves where the top of storage is greater than 12 feet in height. This chapter does not cover miscellaneous combustible materials storage regulated in Section 315.
Chapter 33 Fire Safety during Construction and Demolition
Chapter 33 outlines general fire safety precautions for all structures and all occupancies during construction and demolition operations. Most importantly, this chapter addresses owner responsibility and provides requirements for a site safety plan and requires a site safety director. This chapter is consistent with both Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 15 of the CEBC.
Chapter 34 Tire Rebuilding and Tire Storage
The requirements of Chapter 34 are intended to prevent or control fires and explosions associated with the remanufacture and storage of tires and tire byproducts. Additionally, the requirements are intended to minimize the impact of indoor and outdoor tire storage fires by regulating pile volume and location, segregating the various operations, providing for fire department access and a water supply, and controlling ignition sources.
Chapter 35 Welding and Other Hot Work
Chapter 35 covers requirements for safety in welding and other types of hot work by reducing the potential for fire ignitions that often result in large losses. Several different types of hot work would fall under the requirements found in Chapter 35, including both gas and electric arc methods and any open-torch operations. Many of the activities of this chapter focus on the actions of the occupants.
Chapter 36 Marinas
Chapter 36 addresses the fire protection and prevention requirements for marinas. It was developed in response to the complications encountered by a number of fire departments responsible for the protection of marinas as well as fire loss history in marinas that lacked fire protection. Compliance with this chapter intends to establish safe practices in marina areas, provide an identification method for mooring spaces in the marina, and provide firefighters with safe operational areas and fire protection methods to extend hose lines in a safe manner.
Chapter 37 Combustible Fibers
Chapter 37 establishes the requirements for storage and handling of combustible fibers, including animal, vegetable and synthetic fibers, whether woven into textiles, baled, packaged or loose. Operations involving combustible fibers are typically associated with salvage, paper milling, recycling, cloth manufacturing, carpet and textile mills and agricultural operations, among others. The primary hazard associated with these operations is the abundance of materials and their ready ignitability.
Chapter 38 Reserved
Chapter 39 Processing and Extraction Facilities
Chapter 39 focuses on the plant processing, solvent based, and extraction of oils and fats from various plants, and cultivation and related activities. The processes used are not necessarily typical hazardous material processes and often the systems and equipment associated with such processes are not listed. This chapter provides the tools to appropriately enforce the CFC and provide an appropriate level of safety to meet the unique needs of the industry while providing the appropriate level of safety.
Chapter 40 Storage of Distilled Spirits and Wines
CEBC § 301.3 High relevance — show source text
202, 301.3, 302.1, 302.3, 303.2.1, 304.2, 405.2.3.1, 501.2, 506.1, 506.1.1, 802.6, 804.2, 1001.2, 1011.5.1, 1303.1, 1303.1.1, 1304.1.2, 1304.1.3, 1402.7, 1501.6.7, 1509.1, A102.2, A107.1, A108.1, A113.7, A205.3.2, A301.1, A301.2, A301.3, A302.1, A303.1, A304.2.1, A304.2.2, A304.2.3, Table A304.2.3(1), A304.2.3(2), Table A304.2.3(2), A304.5, A403.8, A403.9.3.2, A404.1, A405.3, A405.3.2 Compartmentation 1305.2.3, Table 1305.2.3, 1305.2.20, Table 1305.2.20, Table
1306.1 Compliance Methods Chapter 3 Performance compliance method Chapter 13, 301.3.3 Prescriptive compliance method Chapter 5, 301.3.1 Work area compliance method Chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, Chapter 10, Chapter 11, 301.3.2
Conflict 102.1, 102.4.1, 102.4.2, 104.2.4.1, 113.1, 302.2, 1302.1.2 Construction Documents 104.3, 105.3, 105.3.1, 105.4, 106, 113.4, 202, 601.2, A105.4, A205.3, A301.1, A406, A407.1 Construction Safeguards 101.5, Chapter 15 Accessibility 1511 Adjoining property 1505 Automatic sprinklers 1510 Fire extinguishers 1507 Means of egress 1508 Owner’s responsibilities 1502 Protection of pedestrians 1504 Sanitary 1503 Standpipes 1509 Water supply 1512 Corridor
Dead-end 801.4, 804.8, 1011.5.1, 1305.2.12, 1305.2.12.1, Table 1306.1 Doors 804.7.1, 1011.5.1 Exit access 801.4, 802.2.1, 802.4, 802.4.1, 901.2, 1011.8.2 Openings 804.7, 804.7.1, 804.7.2, 804.7.3, 804.7.3.1, 804.7.4, 1011.5.1,
1011.8.2
CEBC § 11-1 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 11-1
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11 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and is intended to ensure a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for alterations to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the California Building Code . The provisions address general fire safety features such as requirements for fire alarm systems in some existing buildings and general means of egress, and include a section dedicated to existing Group I-2 occupancies.
SECTION 1101—GENERAL
1101.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of this code.
1101.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing minimum construction requirements where such existing buildings do not comply with the minimum requirements of the California Building Code .
1101.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.5 and 105.6 and the California Building Code .
1101.4 Owner notification. When a building is found to be in noncompliance with this chapter, the fire code official shall duly notify the owner of the building. Upon receipt of such notice, the owner shall, subject to the following time limits, take necessary actions to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
1101.4.1 Construction documents. Construction documents necessary to comply with this chapter shall be completed and submitted within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
1101.4.2 Completion of work. Work necessary to comply with this chapter shall be completed within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
1101.4.3 Extension of time. The fire code official is authorized to grant necessary extensions of time where it can be shown that the specified time periods are not physically practical or pose an undue hardship. The granting of an extension of time for compliance shall be based on the showing of good cause and subject to the filing of an acceptable systematic plan of correction with the fire code official.
SECTION 1102—DEFINITIONS
1102.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
DUTCH DOOR.
EXISTING.
SECTION 1103—FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1103.1 Required construction. Existing buildings shall comply with not less than the minimum provisions specified in Table 1103.1 and as further enumerated in Sections 1103.2 through 1103.10.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to allow the elimination of fire protection systems or a reduction in the level of fire safety provided in buildings constructed in accordance with previously adopted codes.
Exceptions:
Where a change in fire-resistance rating has been approved in accordance with Section 501.2 or 802.6 of the California Existing Building Code .
Group U occupancies.
|TABLE 1103.1—OCCUPANCY AND USE
CEBC § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
Conflict 102.1, 102.4.1, 102.4.2, 104.2.4.1, 113.1, 302.2, 1302.1.2 Construction Documents 104.3, 105.3, 105.3.1, 105.4, 106, 113.4, 202, 601.2, A105.4, A205.3, A301.1, A406, A407.1 Construction Safeguards 101.5, Chapter 15 Accessibility 1511 Adjoining property 1505 Automatic sprinklers 1510 Fire extinguishers 1507 Means of egress 1508 Owner’s responsibilities 1502 Protection of pedestrians 1504 Sanitary 1503 Standpipes 1509 Water supply 1512 Corridor
Dead-end 801.4, 804.8, 1011.5.1, 1305.2.12, 1305.2.12.1, Table 1306.1 Doors 804.7.1, 1011.5.1 Exit access 801.4, 802.2.1, 802.4, 802.4.1, 901.2, 1011.8.2 Openings 804.7, 804.7.1, 804.7.2, 804.7.3, 804.7.3.1, 804.7.4, 1011.5.1,
1011.8.2
Projections 704.1.1 Rating 803.1.1, 1011.5.1, 1305.2.5, 1305.2.5.1, Table 1305.2.5, Table
1306.1
Dangerous Nonstructural 115.1, 116.1 Structural 104.4, 114.1, 117.1, 202,
302.1
Deferred Submittal 106.3.4, 106.6, 202 Definitions 202 Demolition 101.5, 104.3, 106.2.6, 108.5, 113.2, 115.5, 117, 1501.6, 1501.6.1, 1501.7, 1502.1, 1503.1, 1504.1, 1505.2 Department of Building Safety 104.2.4, 105.3, 109.3.8 Disproportionate Earthquake Damage 202, 405.2.2, 502.2
Egress (see Means of Egress) Electrical A102.1, 105.1, 105.1.1, 105.2, 108.3, 109.3.4, 202, 406, 801.3, 801.4, 806, 1007, 1101.2 Elevator 905.4, 1011.8.3, 1102.2, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, Table 1305.2.14, Table 1306.1 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings 202, 505, 506.4, 702.4, 702.5, 702.5.1, 702.6 Emergency Power 804.6.
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
Entire Chapter|X||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopt only those sections
that are listed below||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section||||||||||||||||||||||||| |1501||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1505||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1506||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1508||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1511||||X|X||||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15-1
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15-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 15 looks to the construction process. Parameters are provided for demolition and for protecting adjacent property during demolition and construction. Issues such as how to provide egress and adequate water supply while the building is growing, the timing of standpipe and sprinkler installation, and protection of pedestrians are addressed. Note that this chapter is consistent with Chapter 33 of the California Building Code and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code.
SECTION 1501—GENERAL
[BG] 1501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern safety during construction and the protection of adjacent public and private properties. Fire safety during construction shall also comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code.
[BG] 1501.2 Storage and placement of construction equipment and materials. Construction equipment and materials shall be stored and placed so as not to endanger the public, the workers or adjoining property for the duration of the construction project.
[BS] 1501.3 Roof loads. Structural roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof-covering system and the material and equipment loads that will be encountered during installation of the system.
[BG] 1501.4 Maintenance of exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards. Required exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards shall be maintained at all times during alterations, repairs or additions to any building or structure.
Exceptions:
- Where such required elements or devices are being altered or repaired, adequate substitute provisions shall be made.
- Maintenance of such elements and devices is not required where the existing building is not occupied.
[BG] 1501.5 Removal of waste materials. Waste materials shall be removed in a manner that prevents injury or damage to persons, adjoining properties and public rights-of-way.
SECTION 1502—OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
CEBC § 1.11.3.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Plans and_ specifications shall be prepared by an engineer duly qualified in that branch of engineering necessary to perform such services. Administration of the work of construction shall be under the charge of the responsible architect or engineer except that where plans and specifications involve alterations or repairs, such work of construction may be administered by an engineer duly qualified to perform such services and holding a valid certificate under Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 65700) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code for performance of services in that branch of engineering in which said plans, specifications and estimates and work of construction are applicable.
This section shall not be construed as preventing the design of fire-extinguishing systems by persons holding a C-16 license issued pursuant to Division 3, Chapter 9, Business and Professions Code. In such instances, however, the responsibility charge of this section shall prevail.
1.11.3.4 Existing high-rise buildings. 1. Complete plans or specifications, or both, shall be prepared covering all work required by California Building Code Section 312 for existing high-rise buildings. Such plans or specifications shall be submitted to the enforcing agency having jurisdiction. 2. When new construction is required to conform with the provisions of these regulations, complete plans or specifications, or both, shall be prepared in accordance with the provisions of this subsection. As used in this section, “new construction” is not intended to include repairs, replacements or minor alterations which do not disrupt or appreciably add to or affect the structural aspects of the building.
1.11.3.5 Retention of plans. Refer to Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 and 19851 for permanent retention of plans.
1.11.4 Fees.
1.11.4.1 Other fees. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13146.2, a city, county or district which inspects a hotel, motel, lodging house or apartment house may charge and collect a fee for the inspection from the owner of the structure in an amount, as determined by the city, county or district, sufficient to pay its costs of that inspection.
1.11.4.2 Large family day-care. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 1597.46, Large Family Day-Care Homes, the local government shall process any required permit as economically as possible, and fees charged for review shall not exceed the costs of the review and permit process.
1.11.4.3 High-rise. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13217, High-rise Structure Inspection: Fees and costs, a local agency which inspects a high-rise structure pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13217 may charge and collect a fee for the inspection from the owner of the high-rise structure in an amount, as determined by the local agency, sufficient to pay its costs of that inspection.
_**1.11.4.4 Fire clearance preinspection.
CEBC § 903.2.11.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).
[F] 903.2.11.5 Commercial cooking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct systems where an automatic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section 904.
[F] 903.2.11.6 Other required fire protection systems. In addition to the requirements of Section 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.11.6 require the installation of a fire protection system for certain buildings and areas.
[F] TABLE 903.2.11.6—ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PROTECTION SYSTEMS Col2 SECTION SUBJECT 402.5, 402.6.2 Covered and open mall buildings 403.3 High-rise buildings_ and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the_
lowest level of fire department vehicle access404.3 Atriums 405.3 Underground structures 406.6.4 Mechanical-access enclosed parking garages 407.7 Group I-2 410.6 Stages 411.3 Special amusement buildings 412.2.4 Airport traffic control towers 412.3.6, 412.3.6.1, 412.5.6 Aircraft hangars 415.11.11 Group H-5 HPM exhaust ducts 416.5 Flammable finishes 417.4 Drying rooms 424.3 Play structures 9-12 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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[F] TABLE 903.2.11.6—ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PROTECTION SYSTEMS—continued Col2 SECTION SUBJECT 440 Horse racing stables 441 Pet kennels 449 Public libraries 453 Buildings containing_Group L occupancies_ 507 Unlimited area buildings 508.5.7 Live/work units 509.4 Incidental uses 1030.6.2.3 Smoke-protected assembly seating CFC Automatic sprinkler system requirements as set forth in Section 903.2.11.6 of the_California Fire Code_ California Fire Code Section 1207 Stationary and mobile energy storage systems [F] 903.2.12 During construction. Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code .
903.2.13 Reserved.
903.2.14 Motion picture and television production studio sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations. 903.2.14.1 Existing sound stages and approved production facilities. All existing sound stages and approved production facili- ties equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions of California Fire Code Chapter 9. 903.2.14.2 New sound stages. _All new sound stages shall be equipped with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system.
CEBC § 3310.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 3310.2 Maintenance of means of egress. Means of egress and required accessible means of egress shall be maintained at all times during construction, demolition, remodeling or alterations and additions to any building.
Exception: Existing means of egress need not be maintained where approved temporary means of egress systems and facilities are provided.
SECTION 3311—STANDPIPES
[F] 3311.1 Where required. In buildings required to have standpipes by Section 905.3.1, not fewer than one standpipe shall be provided for use during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such standpipes shall be provided with fire department hose connections at locations adjacent to stairways complying with Section 3310.1. As construction progresses, such standpipes shall be extended to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.
[F] 3311.2 Buildings being demolished. Where a building is being demolished and a standpipe exists within such a building, such standpipe shall be maintained in an operable condition so as to be available for use by the fire department. Such standpipe shall be demolished with the building but shall not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.
[F] 3311.3 Detailed requirements. Standpipes shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9.
Exception: Standpipes shall be either temporary or permanent in nature, and with or without a water supply, provided that such standpipes conform to the requirements of Section 905 as to capacity, outlets and materials.
SECTION 3312—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM
[F] 3312.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved, except as provided in Section 111.3.
[F] 3312.2 Operation of valves. Operation of sprinkler control valves shall be permitted only by properly authorized personnel and shall be accompanied by notification of duly designated parties. When the sprinkler protection is being regularly turned off and on to facilitate connection of newly completed segments, the sprinkler control valves shall be checked at the end of each work period to ascertain that protection is in service.
SECTION 3313—WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
[F] 3313.1 Where required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible building materials arrive on the site, on commencement of vertical combustible construction, and on installation of a standpipe system in buildings under construction, in accordance with Sections 3313.2 through 3313.5.
Exception: The fire code official is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.
CEBC § 907.2.24.2 Medium 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-35
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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.
Frequently asked questions
Who must prepare the site safety plan?
The owner or the owner’s authorized agent is responsible for preparing, implementing and maintaining the approved, written site safety plan — § 1502.1.
When must the plan be approved?
The plan must be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued; any changes must be updated and resubmitted per the Fire Code — § 1502.1.
Is a site safety director always required?
Yes — the owner shall designate a site safety director who enforces the plan and has the authority to secure compliance with Chapter 15 — § 1502.2.
What items must the plan include?
The plan must include, as applicable, items such as the director’s contact, training documentation, emergency procedures, fire department access routes, locations of extinguishers/standpipes/hydrants, smoking/cooking policies, hot‑work permits, combustible waste control, hazardous materials storage methods, site security/fire watch, and any other Fire Code required information — § 1502.1.1.
If the project is very small, do I still need the plan?
The code requires a site safety plan for construction, repair, alteration or demolition work; however the plan only needs to include the applicable items from § 1502.1.1. Local fire officials may accept a brief plan for small projects, but it must still be approved prior to permit issuance.
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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