CEBC · California Existing Building Code
Who is the site safety director and what authority/duties must they have?
The CEBC requires the property owner to submit an approved site safety plan before a building permit is issued that names a **site safety director** and documents that person’s training. The owner must designate the site safety director, who is responsible for implementing the plan and has on-site authority to enforce the chapter’s safety and fire-protection requirements (see **§ 1502.1** and **§ 1502.2**) .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The owner must prepare and submit an approved, written site safety plan before a permit is issued and that plan must identify the site safety director and document that person's training and contact information (§ 1502.1) . The owner must also formally designate a person to be the site safety director, and that person is charged with ensuring compliance with the site safety plan and has the authority to enforce the chapter’s provisions as necessary to secure its intent (§ 1502.2) . Where guard service is provided under the California Fire Code, the site safety director is responsible for that guard service as well (§ 1502.2) .
The owner must name a site safety director in the site safety plan and give that person the authority to enforce the plan and related construction-fire provisions (see § 1502.1 and § 1502.2) .
Requirements in detail
Who appoints the director
- The owner (or the owner's authorized agent) must designate the site safety director — the code places the obligation on the owner, not on the building official or contractor (§ 1502.2) .
Primary responsibilities (plain list)
- Ensure compliance with the approved site safety plan (development, implementation, maintenance) (§ 1502.1, § 1502.2) .
- Be the named contact in the site safety plan and maintain documented training (the plan must include the director’s name/contact and training documentation) (§ 1502.1.1) .
- Enforce the provisions of Chapter 15 as needed to secure the plan’s intent — the director must have enforcement authority on site (§ 1502.2) .
- When guard service is used per the Fire Code, the director is responsible for that service (§ 1502.2) .
Decision-relevant dimensions (table)
| Decision dimension | Required value / action | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Who must prepare the site safety plan | Owner (or owner's authorized agent) | § 1502.1 |
| When plan must be submitted | Before a building permit is issued | § 1502.1 |
| What plan must include about director | Name and contact information; documentation of training | § 1502.1.1 |
| Who designates the director | Owner | § 1502.2 |
| Director’s authority | Authority to enforce the chapter and other provisions necessary to secure intent | § 1502.2 |
| Guard service responsibility | Director responsible where guard service provided per Fire Code | § 1502.2 |
Training and documentation
- The site safety plan must include documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel; the director is responsible for maintaining these records as part of the plan submittal and ongoing compliance (§ 1502.1.1) .
- The CEBC requires that the plan (including training documentation) be submitted and approved before permit issuance (§ 1502.1) .
Exceptions & special cases
- The CEBC text retrieved does not list any express exceptions to the requirement to designate a site safety director in § 1502.2; if a local jurisdiction has specific local amendments or the Fire Code imposes additional qualifications or thresholds (for example for fire watch or tall/large projects), those apply in addition to the CEBC duties — consult the local authority and the California Fire Code where noted (§ 1502.1.1, § 1502.2) .
- Where the Fire Code requires guard service or a fire watch, the CEBC delegates responsibility for the guard service to the site safety director (see § 1502.2) . For the Fire Code’s thresholds and additional duties, see the California Fire Code provisions referenced in the site safety plan components (the CEBC points users to the Fire Code) (§ 1502.1) .
If you need jurisdiction-specific exceptions or local administrative practices (for example, local approval forms or local qualifications for site safety directors), those are not contained in the retrieved CEBC text and you should check with the authority having jurisdiction.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the contractor (not the owner) is required to name the director — the CEBC places that obligation with the owner (§ 1502.1, § 1502.2) .
- Submitting the site safety plan after permit issuance — the plan must be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued (§ 1502.1) .
- Omitting the director’s training documentation or contact info from the plan — the components list specifically requires those items (§ 1502.1.1) .
- Failing to give the director clear on‑site enforcement authority — § 1502.2 requires that the director have that authority to secure the chapter’s intent .
- Treating the site safety director as a substitute for the code official — the director enforces the owner’s plan on site but does not replace the authority of the code official; enforcement action and approvals remain with the authority having jurisdiction as provided elsewhere in code.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A property owner plans an alteration project and must get a building permit before starting work.
- Owner prepares a written site safety plan and includes: name/contact for the proposed site safety director, and documentation showing that person’s training in fire prevention and fire watch procedures (components required by the plan) (§ 1502.1.1) .
- Owner submits the plan for approval before the building permit application is finalized, as required by § 1502.1 .
- Owner formally designates the named person as the site safety director in writing (owner action required by § 1502.2) .
- Once the director is on site, that person must ensure the plan is followed (e.g., that hot work is limited to approved areas and documented, that training records are available, that fire protection equipment locations are maintained) and must have the authority to require corrective action from contractors to secure the plan’s intent (§ 1502.1, § 1502.2) .
- If guard service is required under the Fire Code for parts of the project, the director is responsible for that guard service while it is provided (§ 1502.2) .
Result: The permit is issued after plan approval; the owner’s designated director is the on-site person who enforces the plan and keeps training and contact records available for inspection as required by the CEBC.
Related provisions
- § 1502.1.1 — Components of site safety plans (name/contact, training documentation, hot work plan, etc.) .
- § 1502.3 — Daily fire safety inspection responsibilities (site safety director role spelled out for inspections) — see CEBC Chapter 15 text for inspection items and documentation requirements (related to the director’s duties). .
- California Fire Code Chapter 33 / § 3303.2 — Parallel Fire Code requirements about the site safety director and enforcement authority (the CEBC cross-references the Fire Code) .
- California Fire Code § 3303.1.1 — Fire Code’s list of site safety plan components (mirrors CEBC items and emphasizes procedures such as hot work permits) .
- CEBC § 1502.3.1 — Violations and potential stop-work remedies for failure to conduct and document required fire-safety activities (see Chapter 15 enforcement text) .
If you want, I can extract the exact plan-component wording and map each required component to a short checklist you can use when preparing a plan for submittal to the local jurisdiction.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 3301.2 High relevance — show source text
3301.2 Purpose. This chapter prescribes minimum safeguards for construction, alteration and demolition operations to provide reasonable safety to life and property from fire during such operations.
SECTION 3302—DEFINITIONS
3302.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 3303—ADMINISTRATIVE SAFETY CONTROLS
3303.1 Program development and maintenance. 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 addresses the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of this code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued. Any changes to the plan shall be submitted for approval.
3303.1.1 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 Section 3305.7.
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 fire code official.
3303.2 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 NFPA 241, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.
3303.2.1 Training. Training of fire watch and other responsible personnel in the use of fire protection equipment shall be the responsibility of the site safety director. Records of training shall be kept and made a part of the written plan for the site safety plan.
3303.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 33-3
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FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for presentation to the fire code official upon request.
- Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in Chapter 35, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
- Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
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 § 3302.1.1 High relevance — show source text
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
3302.2 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.
3302.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for the completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available for on-site inspection and review.
Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.
Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.
Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.
Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.
The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.
Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 3311.
Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 3309 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.
CEBC § 1502.1.1 High relevance — show source text
[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.
[F] 1502.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15-3
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CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS
section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for inspection and review.
Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.
Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.
Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.
Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.
The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.
Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.
Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.
CEBC § 3303.2 High relevance — show source text
3303.2 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 NFPA 241, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.
3303.2.1 Training. Training of fire watch and other responsible personnel in the use of fire protection equipment shall be the responsibility of the site safety director. Records of training shall be kept and made a part of the written plan for the site safety plan.
3303.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 33-3
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FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for presentation to the fire code official upon request.
Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in Chapter 35, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.
Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.
Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.
Fire apparatus access roads required by Section 3311 are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.
The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service automatic sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.
Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 3307.2.
Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Sections 3305.10.2 and 3306.6.
Where a fire watch is required in accordance with Section 3303.5, fire watch records required by that section are up-to-date.
3303.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.3. Upon the third offense, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the fire code official.
3303.4 Qualifications. Site safety directors shall acquire training specific to their roles and responsibilities. Upon request, the training and qualifications of the site safety director shall be submitted to the fire code official for approval.
CEBC § 3302.3.1 High relevance — show source text
** The site safety director shall be responsible for the completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available for on-site inspection and review.
Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.
Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.
Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.
Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.
The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.
Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 3311.
Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 3309 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.
3302.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 114.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 114.2. Upon the third offense, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 115, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the building official.
SECTION 3303—DEMOLITION
3303.1 Construction documents. Construction documents and a schedule for demolition shall be submitted where required by the building official. Where such information is required, work shall not be done until such construction documents or schedule, or both, are approved.
3303.2 Pedestrian protection. The work of demolishing any building shall not be commenced until pedestrian protection is in place as required by this chapter.
3303.3 Means of egress. A horizontal exit shall not be destroyed unless and until a substitute means of egress has been provided and approved.
3303.4 Vacant lot. Where a structure has been demolished or removed, the vacant lot shall be filled and maintained to the existing grade or in accordance with the ordinances of the jurisdiction having authority.
3303.5 Water accumulation. Provision shall be made to prevent the accumulation of water or damage to any foundations on the premises or on adjacent property.
3303.6 Utility connections. Service utility connections shall be discontinued and capped in accordance with the approved rules and the requirements of the applicable governing authority.
[F] 3303.7 Fire safety during demolition. Fire safety during demolition shall comply with the applicable requirements of this code and the applicable provisions of Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code .
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 § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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33-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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33 FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 33 outlines general fire safety precautions for all structures and all occupancies during construction and demolition operations. In general, these requirements seek to maintain required levels of fire protection, limit fire spread, establish the appropriate operation of equipment and promote prompt response to fire emergencies. There is an emphasis on owner responsibility and the need to create and implement a site safety plan. Features regulated include fire protection systems, firefighter access to the site and building, water supply, means of egress, hazardous materials storage and use, and temporary heating equipment and other ignition sources. Fire watches are an important component of this chapter. This chapter correlates with Chapter 33 of the California Building Code .
SECTION 3301—GENERAL
3301.1 Scope. This chapter shall apply to structures in the course of construction, alteration or demolition, including those in underground locations. Compliance with NFPA 241 is required for items not specifically addressed herein.
3301.2 Purpose. This chapter prescribes minimum safeguards for construction, alteration and demolition operations to provide reasonable safety to life and property from fire during such operations.
SECTION 3302—DEFINITIONS
3302.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings ascribed to them as defined therein.
SECTION 3303—ADMINISTRATIVE SAFETY CONTROLS
3303.1 Program development and maintenance. 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 addresses the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of this code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued. Any changes to the plan shall be submitted for approval.
3303.1.1 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 Section 3305.7.
Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.
Hot work permit plan.
CEBC § 15-3 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15-3
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CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS
section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for inspection and review.
Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.
Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.
Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.
Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.
The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.
Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.
Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.
[F] 1502.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.2. Upon the third offense, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the code official.
SECTION 1503—SANITARY
[BG] 1503.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .
SECTION 1504—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS
[BS] 1504.1 Protection of pedestrians. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction and demolition activities as required by Sections 1504.1.1 through 1504.1.7 and Table 1504.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.
CEBC § 3307.2. Medium relevance — show source text
- Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 3307.2.
- Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Sections 3305.10.2 and 3306.6.
- Where a fire watch is required in accordance with Section 3303.5, fire watch records required by that section are up-to-date.
3303.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.3. Upon the third offense, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the fire code official.
3303.4 Qualifications. Site safety directors shall acquire training specific to their roles and responsibilities. Upon request, the training and qualifications of the site safety director shall be submitted to the fire code official for approval.
3303.5 Fire watch. Where required by the fire code official or the site safety plan established in accordance with Section 3303.1, a fire watch shall be provided for building demolition and for building construction.
3303.5.1 Fire watch during construction. A fire watch shall be provided during nonworking hours for new construction that exceeds 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above the lowest adjacent grade at any point along the building perimeter, for new multistory construction with an aggregate area exceeding 50,000 square feet (4645 m [2] ) per story or as required by the fire code official.
3303.5.2 Fire watch personnel. Fire watch personnel shall be provided in accordance with this section.
3303.5.2.1 Duties. The primary duty of fire watch personnel shall be to perform constant patrols and watch for the occurrence of fire. The combination of fire watch duties and site security duties is acceptable.
3303.5.2.2 Training. Personnel shall be trained to serve as an on-site fire watch. Training shall include the use of portable fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers and fire reporting shall be in accordance with Section 3303.6.
3303.5.2.3 Means of notification. Fire watch personnel shall be provided with not fewer than one approved means for notifying the fire department.
3303.5.3 Fire watch location and records. The fire watch shall include areas specified by the site safety plan established in accordance with Section 3303.
3303.5.4 Fire watch records. Fire watch personnel shall keep a record of all time periods of duty, including the log entry for each time the site was patrolled and each time a structure was entered and inspected. Records shall be made available for review by the fire code official upon request.
3303.6 Emergency telephone. Emergency telephone facilities with ready access shall be provided in an approved location at the construction site, or an approved equivalent means of communication shall be provided. The street address of the construction site and the emergency telephone number of the fire department shall be posted adjacent to the telephone. Alternatively, where an equivalent means of communication has been approved, the site address and fire department emergency telephone number shall be posted at the main entrance to the site, in guard shacks and in the construction site office.
SECTION 3304—PROTECTION OF COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS
California Existing Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR**|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR|COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU PER HOUR| |VENT
HEIGHT
_H _
(feet)|FAN
+FAN|FAN
+NAT|NAT
+NAT|FAN
+FAN|FAN
+NAT|NAT
+NAT|FAN
+FAN|FAN
+NAT|NAT
+NAT|FAN
+FAN|FAN
+NAT|NAT
+NAT|FAN
+FAN|FAN
+NAT|NAT
+NAT| |6
8
10
15
20
30
50
100|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|74
80
84
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|25
28
31
36
41
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|119
130
138
152
NA
NA
NA
NA|46
53
56
67
75
NA
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|178
193
207
233
250
270
NA
NA|71
82
90
106
122
137
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA|257
279
299
334
368
404
NA
NA|103
119
131
152
172
198
NA
NA|NA
NA
NA
523
565
615
NA
NA|351
384
409
467
508
564
620
NA|143
163
177
212
243
278
328
348|
Frequently asked questions
Who must sign the site safety plan?
The CEBC requires the owner (or the owner’s authorized agent) to develop, submit and maintain the plan; the owner must designate the site safety director in that plan (§ 1502.1, § 1502.2) .
Does the site safety director need a certification?
The CEBC requires documentation of training for the site safety director in the site safety plan, but the retrieved CEBC text does not specify a particular certification; jurisdictions or the Fire Code may set qualifications (§ 1502.1.1) .
Can the contractor act as the site safety director?
Yes — whoever the owner designates can be an employee of the contractor or an independent person, but the owner must formally designate that person and include their name/contact and training in the approved plan (§ 1502.1, § 1502.2) .
When must the plan be submitted?
The site safety plan must be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued (§ 1502.1) .
What authority does the director have on site?
The director “shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter” — in plain terms, the director needs the ability to require on‑site corrective action to comply with the plan (§ 1502.2) .
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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