CFC · California Fire Code

Duties and powers of the fire code official

The fire code official enforces the California Fire Code, decides compliance, issues notices/orders, can require free technical reports and tests, may enter premises (with legal remedies if refused), must keep records for at least 5 years, and is shielded from personal liability when acting in good faith (see §104 and its subsections).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

The fire code official is the local official empowered to enforce the California Fire Code and to determine whether buildings, systems and operations comply. The official may interpret the code, adopt policies to clarify application, require technical reports or tests, enter premises for inspections (with legal remedies if entry is refused), issue notices and orders, keep official records (for not less than 5 years), and is protected from personal liability while acting in good faith. See § 104.1, § 104.2, § 104.4, § 104.6, § 104.7, and § 104.8.

The single most important rule: the fire code official enforces the CFC and has the authority to decide compliance, require technical evidence, inspect premises, and issue orders necessary to carry out the code. § 104.1 and § 104.2.

Requirements in detail

Core authorities and limits

  • Enforcement authority: the official is authorized to enforce the CFC. § 104.1.
  • Interpretations / policies: the official may determine compliance, render interpretations, and adopt policies and procedures to clarify application — but such interpretations must follow the code’s intent and cannot waive explicit code requirements. § 104.2.

Technical reports, tests, alternatives, and modifications

  • Technical reports: the official can require a technical opinion and report from the owner or agent to determine compliance; the report must be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory, or fire‑safety organization acceptable to the official. § 104.2.2 and subsections.
    • Cost: such technical opinions/reports shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction. § 104.2.2.1.
    • Content and qualifications: the report must analyze the design/operation/use and propose recommendations; the official may require submittals to be prepared and stamped by a registered design professional. § 104.2.2.2 – § 104.2.2.3.
  • Alternative materials/designs: the official may approve alternatives (if they meet intent and equivalency criteria) and may require peer review. § 104.2.3 and related subsections.

Inspections, right of entry, and identification

  • Right of entry: the official may enter structures or premises at all reasonable times to inspect when necessary to enforce the code or when there is reasonable cause to believe unsafe/violative conditions exist. If occupied, present credentials and request entry; if unoccupied, make reasonable effort to locate owner/agent before entry. § 104.4.
  • Warrant: if entry is refused, the official may seek an inspection warrant or other legal remedy; once a warrant is obtained, refusal to permit entry is a violation. § 104.4.1.
  • Identification: the official shall carry proper identification when inspecting. § 104.5.

Notices, orders, and records

  • Notices and orders: the official shall issue necessary notices or orders to secure compliance; notices of violation are handled per the code’s violations section. § 104.6.
  • Official records: the official must keep records of approvals, inspections, fires, alternatives/modifications decisions, tests, and fees. Records must be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the building exists, unless otherwise regulated. § 104.7 through § 104.7.6. Retention: 5 years.

Liability and legal defense

  • Liability protection: officers and employees enforcing the code, when acting in good faith and without malice, are not personally liable for damages from acts or omissions in discharge of duties. § 104.8.
  • Legal defense: suits or complaints against officers acting lawfully under the code shall be defended by jurisdiction legal representatives until final termination. § 104.8.1.

Approved materials and reuse

  • Approved materials: materials/equipment approved by the official must be constructed/installed per that approval. § 104.9.
  • Reuse limitation: reuse of materials/equipment requires the official’s approval and that they are in good working order. § 104.9.1.

Decision-relevant table

Decision factor Values / thresholds Code reference
Authority to enforce and interpret Full authority to enforce CFC; may adopt policies but cannot waive code requirements § 104.1, § 104.2
Require technical report Owner must provide report without charge; prepared by qualified professional; official may require registered design professional stamp § 104.2.2, § 104.2.2.1, § 104.2.2.2
Right of entry Entry at all reasonable times; attempt contact if unoccupied; may obtain warrant if refused § 104.4, § 104.4.1
Notices & orders Official shall issue notices/orders; violations handled per violations section § 104.6
Official record retention Not less than 5 years or as long as structure exists § 104.7 – § 104.7.6
Liability protection No personal civil/criminal liability if acting in good faith; jurisdiction provides legal defense § 104.8, § 104.8.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • Interpretation vs. waiver: the official’s interpretations or policies may clarify code application but cannot waive explicit requirements — they must conform to code intent. § 104.2.
  • Alternative materials/designs: alternatives are allowed, but must meet equivalency criteria (quality, strength, effectiveness, durability, safety, fire safety) and be approved in writing; peer review may be required. § 104.2.3 and subsections.
  • Emergency or unsafe conditions: when conditions are unsafe, the official may act quickly, including entry and orders; if entry is refused, the official must follow legal remedies (warrant). § 104.4 and § 104.6.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: believing the official can waive mandatory code provisions. Reality: interpretations cannot have the effect of waiving requirements. § 104.2.
  • Mistake: assuming the official has unlimited discretion to accept any alternative without documentation. Reality: alternatives must meet equivalency criteria and be approved in writing; peer review may be required. § 104.2.3.
  • Mistake: not providing required technical reports or expecting to charge the jurisdiction for them. Reality: required technical opinions/reports must be provided without charge. § 104.2.2.1.
  • Mistake: destroying or failing to retain official records. Reality: officials must retain records for not less than 5 years. § 104.7.

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A property owner installs a non‑listed fire pump controller. The fire code official suspects it may not meet the specified performance standard.

Steps under § 104:

  1. The official requests a technical opinion and report analyzing the controller’s performance (materials, strength, fire‑safety equivalence). The owner must provide the report without charge to the jurisdiction; the report must be prepared by a qualified engineer acceptable to the official and may require a registered design professional stamp. § 104.2.2, § 104.2.2.1, § 104.2.2.2.
  2. If there is insufficient evidence, the official may require published tests (performed by an acceptable testing party) to verify compliance. § 104.2.2.4/related test subsections.
  3. If the owner proposes the controller as an alternative method, the official will evaluate equivalency against the code criteria (quality, strength, effectiveness, durability, safety, fire safety). If approved, the decision is documented in writing and retained in official records. § 104.2.3, § 104.7.4.
  4. All inspection reports, approvals/rejections, and test results are retained for at least 5 years. § 104.7.

Numbers called out: the report must be provided without charge to the jurisdiction; the official must retain records not less than 5 years. § 104.2.2.1, § 104.7.

Related provisions (CFC)

  • § 103.1 — Creation of the code compliance agency and naming of the fire code official.
  • § 104.2.1 — Listed compliance requirements when listing standard is specified.
  • § 104.3 — Applications, permits, plan review and inspections related to permits.
  • § 104.4 / § 104.4.1 — Right of entry and inspection warrant procedures.
  • § 104.6 — Notices and orders (violations processed per violations section).
  • § 104.7 – § 104.7.6 — Official records and retention requirements.
  • § 104.8 / § 104.8.1 — Liability protection and legal defense for officials.
  • § 104.9 / § 104.9.1 — Approved materials and reuse rules.

Code references

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

  • CFC § 103.1 High relevance — show source text

    PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

    SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

    [A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

    [A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the fire code official.

    SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE FIRE CODE OFFICIAL

    [A] 104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:

    1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
    2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

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    DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the fire code official.

    [A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the fire code official is authorized to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a technical opinion and report.

    [A] 104.2.2.1 Cost. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

    [A] 104.2.2.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the fire code official. The fire code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

    [A] 104.2.2.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon to identify and propose necessary recommendations.

  • CFC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.5 Identification. The fire code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.

    [A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The fire code official shall issue necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 113.

    [A] 104.7 Official records. The fire code official shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.6. Such official records shall be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the building or structure to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other regulations.

    [A] 104.7.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be maintained by the fire code official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.

    [A] 104.7.2 Inspections. The fire code official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.

    104.7.3 Fire records. The fire code official shall keep a record of fires occurring within its jurisdiction and of facts concerning the same, including statistics as to the extent of such fires and the damage caused thereby, together with other information as required by the fire code official.

    [A] 104.7.4 Code alternatives and modifications. Application for alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment in accordance with Section 104.2.3; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.4; and documentation of the final decision of the fire code official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.

    [A] 104.7.5 Tests. The fire code official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.

    [A] 104.7.6 Fees. The fire code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The fire code official, member of the board of appeals, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by the legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The fire code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code; and any officer of the department of fire prevention, acting in

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    DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

  • CFC § 102.8 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 102.8 Subjects not regulated by this code. Where applicable standards or requirements are not set forth in this code, or are contained within other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or bylaws adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable standards of the National Fire Protection Association or other nationally recognized fire safety standards, as approved, shall be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the authority of the fire code official to determine compliance with codes or standards for those activities or installations within the fire code official’s jurisdiction or responsibility.

    [A] 102.9 Matters not provided for. Requirements that are essential for the public safety of an existing or proposed activity, building or structure, or for the safety of the occupants thereof, that are not specifically provided for by this code, shall be determined by the fire code official.

    [A] 102.10 Conflicting provisions. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in a specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.

    [A] 102.11 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.

    [A] 102.12 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.

    102.13 Wildland-urban interface. The provisions of the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and struc- tures built in the wildland-urban interface.

    PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

    SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

    [A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

    [A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the fire code official.

    SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE FIRE CODE OFFICIAL

    [A] 104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:

    1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
    2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

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    DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

  • CFC § 102.7 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 102.7 Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.

    [A] 102.8 Existing conditions. The legal occupancy or use of any structure or condition existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code or the California Fire Code, California Building Code, California Existing Building Code or the California Residential Code, or as is deemed necessary by the code official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

    SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

    [A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 103.2 Appointment. The code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

    [A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the code official.

    SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL

    [A] 104.1 Powers and duties of the code official. The code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:

    1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
    2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.

    [A] 104.2.1 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the code official is authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide a technical opinion and report.

    [A] 104.2.1.1 Costs. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

    [A] 104.2.1.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

    [A] 104.2.1.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises, the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon and fuel management to identify and propose necessary recommendations.

  • CFC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.5 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.

    [A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 110.2.

    [A] 104.7 Official records. The code official shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.5. Such official records shall be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the structure or activity to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other regulations.

    [A] 104.7.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be maintained by the code official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.

    [A] 104.7.2 Inspections. The code official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.

    [A] 104.7.3 Code alternatives and modifications. Application for alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment in accordance with Section 104.2.2; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.3; and documentation of the final decision of the code official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.

    [A] 104.7.4 Tests. The code official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.1.4 and 104.2.2.5.

    [A] 104.7.5 Fees. The code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances

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    ADMINISTRATION

    implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.

  • CFC § 104.2.2.6.2 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.2.2.6.2 Other reports. Reports not complying with Section 104.2.2.6.1 shall describe criteria, including but not limited to any referenced testing or analysis, used to determine compliance with code intent and justify code equivalence. The report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

    [A] 104.2.2.7 Peer review. The code official is authorized to require submittal of a peer review report in conjunction with a request to use an alternative material, design or method of construction, prepared by a peer reviewer that is approved by the code official.

    [A] 104.2.3 Modifications. Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided that the code official shall first find that one or more special individual reasons make the strict letter of this code impractical, that the modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of this code, and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of the written request and action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered into the files of the code enforcement

    agency.

    [A] 104.3 Applications and permits. The code official is authorized to receive applications, review construction documents and issue permits for construction regulated by this code, issue permits for operations regulated by this code, inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on any premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the code official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code. If such structure or premises is occupied, the code official shall present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the structure or premises and request entry. If such entry is refused, then the code official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.

    [A] 104.4.1 Warrant. Where the code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner, the owner’s authorized agent, occupant or person having charge, care or control of the structure or premises shall not fail or neglect, after a proper request is made as herein provided, to permit entry therein by the code official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.

    [A] 104.5 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.

    [A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 110.2.

  • CFC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.5 Identification. The building official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.

    [A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The building official shall issue necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 114.

    [A] 104.7 Official records. The building official shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.5. Such official records shall be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the building or structure to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other regulations.

    [A] 104.7.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be maintained by the building official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.

    [A] 104.7.2 Inspections. The building official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.

    [A] 104.7.3 Code alternatives and modifications. Application for alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment in accordance with Section 104.2.3; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.4; and documentation of the final decision of the building official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.

    [A] 104.7.4 Tests. The building official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.

    [A] 104.7.5 Fees. The building official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 109.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

  • CFC § 1-5 High relevance — show source text

    1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

    DIVISION II— SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-13

    Part 1—General Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

    101 Scope and General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13 102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

    Part 2—Administration and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

    103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14 104 Duties and Powers of the Fire Code Official . . . . . . . 1-14

    105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

    106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    107 Temporary Structures, Uses, Equipment and Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27

    110 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27

    111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

    112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28 113 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

    114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29 115 Unsafe Structures or Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

  • CFC § 701A.1 High relevance — show source text

    1_|Title|Y||||||||| |101.2|Scope|Y||701A.1|4901.1|||||| |101.2.1|Appendices|N||||||||| |101.3|Purpose|N||701A.2|4901.2|||||| |101.3.1|Application|Y||701A.3||||||| |101.3.1.1|Application date and
    where required|Y||701A.3.1||||||| |101.4|Retroactivity|N||||||||| |101.5|Additions or
    alterations|N||||||||| |101.6|Maintenance|Y||||||||| |102|Applicability|Y||||||||| |102.1|General|Y||||||||| |102.2|Other laws|Y||||||||| |102.3|Application of
    references|N||||||||| |102.4|Referenced codes
    and standards|N||||||||| |102.4.1|Conflicts|N||||||||| |102.4.2|Provisions in
    referenced codes and
    standards|N||||||||| |102.5|Subjects not
    regulated by this code|N|||102.8|||||| |102.6|Matters not provided
    for|Y|||102.9|||||| |102.7|Partial invalidity|N||||||||| |102.8|Existing conditions|N||||||||| |103|Code compliance
    agency|N||||||||| |103.1|Creation of agency|N||||||||| |103.2|Appointment|N||||||||| |103.3|Deputies|N||||||||| |104|Duties and powers of
    the code official|N||||||||| |104.1|Powers and duties of
    the code official|N||||||||| |104.2|Determination of
    compliance|N||||||||| |104.2.1|Technical assistance|N||||||||| |104.2.1.1|Cost|N|||||||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-21

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

    APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

    2025 CWUIC—continued Col2 Adopted
    Yes/No    		 IWUIC
    Section    		 CBC
    Section    		 CFC
    Section    		 Title 14,
    Division 1.5
    Section    		 Title 19,
    Division 1
    Section    		 Gov Code
    Section    		 PRC
    Section    		 HSC
    Section
    Section Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title
    Chapter 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration
    104.2.1.
  • CFC § 3104.2 High relevance — show source text

    Flame Retardant (see Fire-Retardant Coatings) Tents, air-supported, air-inflated and tensioned membrane structures

    3104.2

    Flame Spread Defined 202

    Flame Spread Index Defined 202 Flaming Foods and Beverages 308.1.10 Flammable Cryogenic Fluid Defined 202 Flammable Finishes Chapter 24 Defined 202

    Dipping operations 2405 Electrostatic apparatus 2407 Floor surfacing 2410 Powder coating 2406 Protection of operations 2403 Spray finishing 2404 Ventilation 2404.9, 2405.7, 2406.7, 2407.7, 2409.6, 2410.5 Flammable Gas Chapter 58

    Fire and Smoke Protection Features

    Chapter 7 Fire Apparatus Access Road 202, 503, Appendix D Aerial fire apparatus D105 Fire lane D103.6, 202, 503.3 Gates and barricades D103.5, 503.5,

    503.6

    Obstructions 503.4 Specifications D103, 503.2 Fire Area 901.4.4

    Defined 202

    Fire Barrier

    Defined 202

    Maintenance 704.1 Fire Chief 104.11, 907.6.6.1, 2603.3, 3303.4,

    5706.6.2.1

    Defined 202

    Fire Code Official

    Defined 202

    Duties and powers 104 Fire Command Center 508

    Defined 202 Required features 508.1.6 Separation 508.1.2 Size 508.1.3 Storage prohibited 315.3.3, 508.1.5 Fire Damper Defined 202 Fire Department Communication System

    907.2.13.2 Fire Department Connections 903.3.7, 905.2, 912 Fire Department Master Key Defined 202 Fire Department Notification

    [see Notification (of fire department)] Fire Department Operations 104.11, 401.4 Fire Detector, Automatic Defined 202 Fire Door Assembly Defined 202 Fire Drill (see Emergency Evacuation Drill) Fire Equipment, Tampering with 901.8 Fire Escape Stairways 1104.16 Fire Exit Hardware 1010.2.8

    Defined 202 Fire Extinguishers, Portable 906 Asphalt kettles 303.5 Aviation facilities 2005 Buildings under construction or demolition 3316 Commercial cooking equipment 906.4 Dry cleaning plants 2108.4 Flammable finishes 2404.6.1, 2405.4.2, 2406.4.2 Lumber yards 2804.2, 2808.8 Fire Flow for Buildings 507, 3307, Appendix B Fire Hydrant Distribution Appendix C Location Appendix C Obstruction 507.5.4

    Permit 105.5.17, 105.5.43, 105.6.19 Standpipe system 507.5.1.1 Tampering 901.8 Testing 507.5.2, 901.5 Fire Investigations 104.10

    Fire Partition

    Defined 202

    Maintenance 01.2

  • CFC § 1-22 High relevance — show source text

    PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    104 Duties and Powers of Code Official. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

    106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems. . . . . . . 1-28

    108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

    109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

    110 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

    111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

    112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

    113 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    115 Unsafe Structures and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    116 Emergency Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32

    117 Demolition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

    201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

    202 General Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

    CHAPTER 3 PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE

    METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

    301 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Frequently asked questions

Who appoints the fire code official?

The fire code official is appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction (see § 103.2).

Can the fire code official waive a mandatory code requirement?

No. Interpretations, policies or procedures may clarify application but must not waive requirements specifically provided in the code (see § 104.2).

If I refuse entry to an inspector, what happens?

If entry is refused, the official must seek legal remedies such as an inspection warrant; once a warrant is obtained, refusal to permit entry is not allowed (see § 104.4 and § 104.4.1).

Who pays for required technical reports and tests?

Required technical opinions and reports must be provided without charge to the jurisdiction (see § 104.2.2.1).

How long must the fire department keep inspection and approval records?

Official records must be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the building exists, unless other regulations state otherwise (see § 104.7).

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