CFC · California Fire Code
Which agency is the code compliance agency for the CFC?
The CFC requires each adopting jurisdiction to name a department as the code compliance agency and have the jurisdiction’s chief appoint a **fire code official** to administer and enforce the CFC; that official may appoint deputies and delegates (see **§ 103.1–103.3**) .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)
The California Fire Code establishes that a code compliance agency must be created by name in the adopting jurisdiction and that the official in charge is the fire code official. The agency’s role is to implement, administer and enforce the CFC (§ 103.1) and that the fire code official is appointed by the jurisdiction’s chief appointing authority (§ 103.2) and may appoint deputies and delegates as needed (§ 103.3) .
The local government must name a department as the code compliance agency and the person appointed by the chief appointing authority is the fire code official who enforces the CFC (see § 103.1–103.3) .
Requirements in detail
Who/what must exist
- The jurisdiction must create and identify a code compliance agency (the text uses a placeholder for the agency name) and state who heads it (the fire code official) — § 103.1 .
- That official must be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction (for example: mayor, city manager, county board of supervisors) — § 103.2 .
- The fire code official may appoint deputy fire code officials, technical officers, inspectors and other employees and may delegate powers to them consistent with local procedures — § 103.3 .
Decision-relevant dimensions (quick reference table)
| Decision factor | Typical value / what to check | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Agency identity | Local ordinance or resolution must insert the department name (e.g., “Fire Department” or “Fire Prevention Division”) | § 103.1 |
| Official title | Fire code official (official in charge of the named agency) | § 103.1 |
| Who appoints the official | Chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction (e.g., mayor, city manager) | § 103.2 |
| Staffing / delegation | Authority to appoint deputy fire code official, inspectors, technical officers; delegation permitted by local procedures | § 103.3 |
| Function of the agency | Implementation, administration and enforcement of the CFC | § 103.1 |
Practical implementation notes
- The model CFC text contains a placeholder for the agency name (“[INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT]”). The adopting jurisdiction must replace that with the actual department name when enacting local adoption or ordinance — § 103.1 .
- Appointment and delegation follow the jurisdiction’s own prescribed procedures; the code does not specify appointment procedures beyond naming the appointing authority — § 103.2, § 103.3 .
Exceptions & special cases
- The CFC text itself is a model and expects local insertion of the agency name; where state or special agencies have specific enforcement authority for particular occupancies, those are handled elsewhere in Title 24 adoption matrices (not in § 103). The CFC § 103 does not list occupancy-specific exceptions; it establishes the general local agency framework — § 103.1–103.3 .
- If a state agency (for example, a state-adopting agency listed in other Title 24 chapters) has statutory authority for a specific facility type, that state-level assignment is handled through the applicable adoption tables and state code language — not by § 103 of the CFC itself. The jurisdiction should check the adoption matrices in Title 24 for those special assignments (see related codes/adoption tables) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming the CFC itself names a universal enforcing department (it does not). The model text requires the jurisdiction to insert the department name — § 103.1 .
- Confusing the title: many documents refer to “fire marshal,” “fire chief” or “fire code official.” The CFC recognizes the office as the fire code official; local titles may vary, but the appointment must conform to § 103.2 .
- Overlooking delegated authority: owners often expect only the named official can act. In fact, the official may appoint deputies and delegate powers under § 103.3; verify delegated authority in local administrative rules and delegations .
- Failing to document the appointment: the code requires appointment by the chief appointing authority — ensure a clear record (ordinance, resolution, personnel action) showing who was appointed under § 103.2 .
Worked example — concrete scenario
- On June 1, 2026, the City Council of Meadowville adopts the California Fire Code and, by resolution, designates the “Meadowville Fire Department” as the code compliance agency (replacing the model placeholder in § 103.1) .
- The City Manager (the chief appointing authority) appoints the Fire Chief as the fire code official on June 15, 2026 (action required by § 103.2) .
- The Fire Chief appoints two deputy fire code officials and three inspectors under the local personnel procedures; those deputies receive written delegations of specific inspection and permitting powers as allowed by § 103.3 .
Result: Meadowville has satisfied the CFC requirements — local agency named, official appointed, and delegation documented in local records consistent with § 103.1–103.3 .
Related provisions
- § 104.1 — Duties and general enforcement authority of the fire code official (powers to enforce the CFC) .
- § 104.2 — Authority to determine compliance, render interpretations, and adopt clarifying policies and procedures (fire code official’s authority) .
- See the Title 24 adoption matrices and state-adopting agency lists for situations where a state agency is the enforcing authority for particular occupancies (these appear elsewhere in the California code family; check the adoption tables and state-agency sections in Title 24) .
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 102.6.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.6.2 Buildings previously occupied. The legal occupancy of any building existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, the California Fire Code or California Existing Building Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
[A] 103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
[A] 103.2 Appointment. The building 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 building official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy building official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.
1-24 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF BUILDING OFFICIAL
[A] 104.1 General. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The building 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:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[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 building official.
[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the building official is authorized to determine compliance with this code, 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 specialty organization acceptable to the building official. The building official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
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 § 1.2.3.2 High relevance — show source text
1.2.3.2 Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, or evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate claims for alternative materials or methods, the building official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance to be made at no expense to the jurisdiction. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test meth- ods, the building official shall approve the testing procedures. Tests shall be performed by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained by the building official for the period required for retention of public records.
SECTION 1.3—BOARD OF STATE AND COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS
1.3.1 Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.
Application— Local detention facilities.
Enforcing agency— Board of State and Community Corrections.
Authority cited— Penal Code Section 6030; Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 207.1, 210 and 885.
Reference— Penal Code Section 6030; Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 207.1, 210 and 885.
1.3.2 Adopting agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to buildings identified in this section will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym BSCC.
SECTION 1.4—DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS
1.4.1 Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated. 1. Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Application— Any establishment or mobile unit where barbering, cosmetology or electrolysis is being performed.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
Authority cited— Business and Professions Code Section 7312.
Reference— Business and Professions Code Sections 7303, 7303.1, 7312 and 7313.
2. Acupuncture Board.
Application— Acupuncture offices.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
Authority cited— Business and Professions Code Section 4933.
Reference— Business and Professions Code Sections 4928, 4928.1 and 4933.
3. Board of Pharmacy.
Application— Pharmacies.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
Authority cited— Business and Professions Code Section 4005.
Reference— Business and Professions Code Sections 4005, 4127.7 and 4201.
4. Veterinary Medical Board.
Application— Veterinary facilities.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
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:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
CFC § 1-12 High relevance — show source text
1.9 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1.10 Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.12 State Librarian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
1.13 Department of Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
1.14 California State Lands Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
DIVISION II – SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
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
CFC § 44-18 High relevance — show source text
R303.4
44-18 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
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REFERENCED STANDARDS
276—23: Standard Method of Fire Test for Determining the Heat Release Rate of Roofing Assemblies with Combustible Above- Deck Roofing Components
R906.1
286— 24 : Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth
R302.9.4, R303.6
501—22: Standard on Manufactured Housing
R202
720—15: Standard for the Installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection and Warning Equipment
R311.7.1, R311.7.2
PCA Portland Cement Association 5420 Old Orchard Road Skokie, IL 60077
100—17: Prescriptive Design of Exterior Concrete Walls for One- and Two-family Dwellings (Pub. No. PCA 100.3)
R301.2.2.5, R404.1.3, R404.1.3.2.1, R404.1.3.2.2, R404.1.3.4, R404.1.4.2, R608.1, R608.2, R608.5.1, R608.9.2, R608.9.3
PTI Post-Tensioning Institute 38800 Country Club Drive Farmington Hills, MI 48331
PTIDC10.5—19: Standard Requirements for Design and Analysis of Shallow Concrete Foundations on Expansive and Stable Soils
R506.2
SBCA Structural Building Components Association 6300 Enterprise Lane Madison, WI 53719
BCSI—2018: Building Component Safety Information—Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing, Restraining & Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses
R502.12.2, R802.10.3
CFS-BCSI—(updated June 2016): Cold-formed Steel Building Component Safety Information (CFSBCSI)—Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing & Bracing of Cold-formed Steel Trusses
R505.1.3, R804.3.6
SFM State of California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Office of the State Fire Marshal, P.O. Box 944246, Sacramento, CA
944246-2460
SFM—12-3: Releasing Systems for Security Bars in Dwellings
SFM 12-7A-1: Exterior Wall Siding and Sheathing
SFM 12-7A-2: Exterior Window
SFM 12-7A-3: Horizontal Protection Underside
SFM 12-7A-4: Decking
SFM 12-7A-4A: Decking Alternate Method A
(The Office of the State Fire Marshal standards referred to above are found in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12.)
TMS The Masonry Society 105 South Sunset Street, Suite Q Longmont, CO 80501
402—2022: Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures
CFC § 8.10 High relevance — show source text
1.8.10 Other Building Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1.9 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1.10 Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
1.12 State Librarian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
1.13 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
1.14 California State Lands Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
DIVISION II – SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
Part 1—Scope and Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
Part 2—Administration and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
104 Duties and Powers of Building Official. . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
106 Floor and Roof Design Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
107 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
108 Temporary Structures, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
109 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
110 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
111 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
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:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- 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 § 1-4 High relevance — show source text
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1.12 Board of Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
PART 1—GENERAL PROVISIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
104 Duties and Powers of the Code Official . . . . . . . . . 1-17
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . 1-21
108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
109 Inspection and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
110 Certificate of Completion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
112 Means of Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
113 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
CHAPTER 3 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREAS . . . . 3-3
CFC § 102.4.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code or the California Codes specified in Section 101.4, the provisions of this code or the California Codes specified in Section 101.4, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
102.4.3 Code references. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] All reference to International Codes or other similar codes in referenced standards shall be replaced by equivalent provisions in the California Building Standards Codes.
102.4.4 Reference in standards. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] All references listed in reference standards shall be replaced by referenced standards listed in Chapter 35 of this code, where applicable, and shall include all amendments to the reference standards in this code.
[A] 102.5 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] 102.6 Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, the California Existing Building Code or the Cali- fornia Fire Code .
[A] 102.6.1 Buildings not previously occupied. A building or portion of a building that has not been previously occupied or used for its intended purpose in accordance with the laws in existence at the time of its completion shall comply with the provisions of this code or the California Residential Code, as applicable, for new construction or with any current permit for such occupancy.
[A] 102.6.2 Buildings previously occupied. The legal occupancy of any building existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, the California Fire Code or California Existing Building Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
[A] 103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
[A] 103.2 Appointment. The building 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 building official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy building official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.
1-24 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ADMINISTRATION
CWUIC § 51178 High relevance — show source text
as identified by the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Section 51178 of the Government Code or_ Article 9 (commencing with Section 4201) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Public Resources Code, shall provide to the buyer documentation stating that the property is in compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or local vegeta- tion management ordinances, as follows: (1) In a local jurisdiction that has enacted an ordinance requiring an owner of real property to obtain documentation that the property is in compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance, the seller shall provide the buyer with a copy of the documentation that complies with the requirements of that local ordinance and information on the local agency from which a copy of that documentation may be obtained. (2) In a local jurisdiction that has not enacted an ordinance for an owner of real property to obtain documentation that a property is in compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance, and if a state or local agency, or other government entity, or other qualified nonprofit entity, provides an inspection with documentation for the jurisdiction in which the property is located, the seller shall provide the buyer with the documentation obtained in the six- month period preceding the date the seller enters into a transaction to sell that real property and provide information on the local agency from which a copy of that documentation may be obtained.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
(b) On and after July 1, 2021, if the seller of a real property described in subdivision (a) has not obtained documentation of compli- ance in accordance with paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (a), the seller and the buyer shall enter into a written agreement pursuant to which the buyer agrees to obtain documentation of compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance as follows: (1) In a local jurisdiction that has enacted an ordinance requiring an owner or buyer to obtain documentation of compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance, the buyer shall comply with that ordinance.
(2) In a local jurisdiction that has not enacted an ordinance requiring an owner or buyer to obtain documentation of compliance, and if a state or local agency, or other government entity, or other qualified nonprofit entity, provides an inspection with docu- mentation for the jurisdiction in which the property is located, the buyer shall obtain documentation of compliance within one year of the date of the close of escrow. (c) Nothing in this section, including the existence of an agreement between a buyer and seller pursuant to subdivision (b), shall limit the ability of a state or local agency to enforce defensible space requirements pursuant to Section 51182 of the Govern- ment Code, Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code, or other applicable statutes, regulations, and local ordinances.
SECTION H102—CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE
Sections 51175, 51176, 51178 – 51179, and 51181.
51175. The Legislature hereby finds and declares as follows: (a) _Wildfires are extremely costly, not only to property owners and residents, but also to local agencies.
CFC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2.
Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance, the conditions of the listing shall govern.
[A] 102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.4.2 Conflicting provisions. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
[A] 102.5 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.
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 CODE OFFICIAL
[A] 104.1 General. The code official is hereby authorized and directed 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 this code’s provisions. Such interpretations, policies, and procedures:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[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 code official.
[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the 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.
Frequently asked questions
Who exactly fills the “[INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT]” placeholder in § 103.1?
The adopting jurisdiction (city, county or other authority) must replace that placeholder in its adoption ordinance or resolution with the actual department name (for example, “Fire Department” or “Fire Prevention Division”) as required by § 103.1 .
Does § 103 require a specific title like “Fire Marshal”?
No. The code uses the title fire code official for the official in charge; local jurisdictions may use different job titles, but the appointment must be made by the chief appointing authority as described in § 103.2 .
Can the fire code official delegate enforcement tasks?
Yes. § 103.3 authorizes the fire code official to appoint deputies, inspectors and technical staff and to delegate powers to them in accordance with local procedures .
If a state agency has authority over a building type, does § 103 override that?
No. § 103 sets the local agency framework; state-level enforcement assignments for specific occupancies are handled through Title 24 adoption tables and the specific state-adopting agency language (see related adoption materials) .
What proof should a property owner ask to confirm who enforces the CFC locally?
Ask to see the local ordinance or resolution that adopted the CFC and named the enforcing department, and the appointment record or delegation showing who the fire code official is (actions required by § 103.1 and § 103.2) .
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
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