CFC · California Fire Code
How does the CFC treat terms defined in other codes and terms not defined?
If the CFC doesn’t define a term, first use the definition from the California Building, Mechanical or Plumbing Code per § 201.3; if none of those defines it, use the ordinary (dictionary) meaning per § 201.4.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
The California Fire Code says: if a word or phrase is not defined in the CFC, use the meaning given in the California Building Code, California Mechanical Code, or California Plumbing Code first (§ 201.3) — and if you still have no definition, use the ordinary (dictionary) meaning, as the context implies (§ 201.4) .
If the CFC is silent on a term, first adopt the definition from the listed California codes; if none of those define it, use the ordinarily accepted (dictionary) meaning. § 201.3 and § 201.4 govern this hierarchy.
Requirements in detail
Two-step hierarchy (what to check, in order)
- Look in the CFC Chapter 2 definitions (Section 202). If defined there, use the CFC definition. § 201.1 (scope) and chapter 2 establish that defined terms in this code control.
- If the CFC does not define the term, adopt the meaning given in the California Building Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code — in that order of reference as listed in the CFC § 201.3.
- If none of those codes provide a definition, use an “ordinarily accepted meaning” (dictionary meaning) appropriate to the context; the CFC specifically recognizes Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary (11th Ed.) for that purpose. See § 201.4.
Decision table — what to do depending on where the term is found
| Decision condition | Action (what definition to use) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Term is defined in CFC Chapter 2 | Use the CFC definition (Chapter 2) | § 201.1 / Chapter 2 |
| Term NOT defined in CFC, but defined in CBC, CMC or CPC | Use the definition ascribed in that referenced California code | § 201.3 |
| Term NOT defined in CFC or those referenced codes | Use ordinarily accepted/dictionary meaning appropriate to context (Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Ed.) | § 201.4 |
Practical interpretation notes
- The CFC’s rule is about source hierarchy (where to look), not about changing substantive technical definitions in other codes. When the CFC points to another California code, you must adopt that definition as written in that code for CFC purposes. § 201.3 establishes that direct cross‑reference.
- The dictionary fallback (ordinary meaning) is context‑sensitive; it is not a substitute for code definitions where a referenced code already supplies one. § 201.4 tells you when dictionary meaning applies.
Exceptions & special cases
- If the CFC itself or a California code explicitly states a different governing definition for a specific application (for example, a bracketed agency note or a section adopting a different source for a particular term), that explicit instruction controls over the general rules in § 201.3/§ 201.4. See Chapter 1 and code-specific adoption notes when in doubt.
- For work regulated by a state agency or special application listed in Section 1.11, that agency’s adoption notes or the published California code versions may include additional cross‑references or different dictionary authorities — check the California Building Standards adoption notes in the front matter. (The CFC text includes these adoption/agency notes; consult them along with § 201.3.)
Common mistakes
- Assuming a plain-English meaning without checking the referenced California codes first. The CFC requires checking the California Building, Mechanical and Plumbing Codes before using a dictionary definition (§ 201.3, then § 201.4) .
- Using a national or industry glossary without verifying it aligns with the referenced California code’s definition. The CFC does not authorize substituting other glossaries in place of the codes it names. § 201.3 controls.
- Overlooking bracketed or agency‑specific notes in the code front matter that may change where to look for a definition for regulated applications — always read the code’s adoption matrix and front‑matter notes before applying the hierarchy.
Worked example — applying the rule (step-by-step with numbers)
Scenario: A plan reviewer encounters the term “fire command center” in a fire‑alarm specification. The CFC Chapter 2 does not include that term.
- Step 1 — Check CFC Chapter 2 definitions (0 matches). Result: no CFC definition. (0 → check next) § 201.1/Chapter 2.
- Step 2 — Consult the three referenced California codes named in § 201.3: California Building Code (CBC), California Mechanical Code (CMC) and California Plumbing Code (CPC). That is 3 external code sources to check. § 201.3.
- If CBC contains a definition (1 of 3), adopt that CBC text as the operative definition for the CFC review and stop. (Found in 1 of 3 → use that.)
- If none of the 3 codes contains the term (0 of 3), proceed to Step 3.
- Step 3 — Use the ordinarily accepted meaning from a dictionary (Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Ed.) consistent with the context. § 201.4.
In short: 0 (CFC) → check up to 3 codes → if still 0, use dictionary. The controlling steps and counts come directly from § 201.3 and § 201.4.
Related provisions
- § 201.1 — Scope (Chapter 2 controls meanings unless otherwise stated).
- § 201.2 — Interchangeability (tense/gender/plural rules).
- CFC Chapter 2 (Section 202) — the list of the CFC’s own defined terms; always check here first.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 2-4 High relevance — show source text
2-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code. General definitions are located in Section 202 and occupancy classification definitions are located in Section 203.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
3D PRINTER. A machine used in the additive manufacturing process for fabricating objects through the deposition of a material using a print head, nozzle or other printer technology.
[M] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel or similar obstruction [see also “Ready access (to)”].
[BE] ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to a public way.
[BE] ACCESSIBLE ROUTE. A continuous, unobstructed path that complies with Chapter 11 of the California Building Code .
ACTIVE RF EMITTING DEVICE. Any type of circuit component that requires an AC or DC power source with the ability to electrically control electron flow and/or amplification of RF signal, including but not limited to signal boosters, repeaters, bidirectional amplifiers and fiber-distributed antenna systems.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING. A process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer, sometimes referred to as 3D printing. This code recognizes two types of additive manufacturing:
Industrial additive manufacturing. 3D printing operations that typically utilize combustible powders or metals, an inert gas supply, a combustible dust collection system, or that create a hazardous (classified) location area or zone outside the equipment.
CFC § 201.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the other California Codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in those codes. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] For terms not defined in this chapter, refer to Chapters 6 and 7 of the California Administrative Code, and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Definitions of terms given in Section 4-207 or 4-314 of the California Administrative Code govern over those in Section 202.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multi- family dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)
[A] ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area, number of stories, or height of a building or structure.
[A] ALTERATION. Any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than a repair or addition.
[BG] AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to persons who are rendered incapable of self-preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care recipients already incapable.
[A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.
Exception: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Approved” means meeting the approval of the Enforcing Agency, except as otherwise provided by law, when used in connection with any system, material, type of construction, fixture or appliance as the result of investigations and tests conducted by the agency, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by national authorities, or technical, health, or scientific organi- zations or agencies.
Notes :
1. See Health and Safety Code Section 17920 for “Approved” as applied to residential construction and buildings or struc- tures accessory thereto as referenced in Section 1.8.2. 2. See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.1 for “Approved” as applied to the use of hotplates in residential construction as referenced in Section 1.8.2.
3. See Health and Safety Code Section 19966 for “Approved” as applied to Factory-Built Housing as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5.
CFC § 201.1 High relevance — show source text
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Energy Code, Califor- nia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Green Building Standards Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
[BS] AAC MASONRY. Masonry made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) units, manufactured without internal reinforcement and bonded together using thin- or thick-bed mortar.
ACCESS AISLE. [DSA-AC] An accessible space adjacent to or between vehicle spaces that provides clearances in compliance with this code.
ACCESSIBILITY. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] The combination of various elements in a building, facility, site or area, or portion thereof which allows access, circulation and the full use of the building and facilities by persons with disabilities in compliance with this code.
ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON. [DSA-AC] A button on an elevator hall call console in a destination-oriented elevator system that when pressed will activate a series of visual and verbal prompts and announcements providing instruction regarding hall call console operation and direction to an assigned elevator.
ACCESSIBLE. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] A site, building, facility, or portion thereof that is approachable and usable by persons with disabili- ties in compliance with this code.
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT. [DSA-AC] An element specified by the regulations adopted by the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance.
[BE] ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to a public way.
CFC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
Way_||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waiting Room|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Walk||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waterline||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |Wet Bar|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair Space|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Winery Caves|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Work Area Equipment|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Workstation_ (2nd paragraph_
only)|||||||X||||||||||||||||||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.
2-10 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purposes of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [A], [BG] or [BS] will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Energy Code, Califor- nia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Green Building Standards Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
[BS] AAC MASONRY. Masonry made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) units, manufactured without internal reinforcement and bonded together using thin- or thick-bed mortar.
CFC § 201.3 High relevance — show source text
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have their ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A building or structure used to shelter or support any material, equipment, chattel or occupancy other than a habitable building.
AGRICULTURE (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Land used for agricultural purposes as defined in a Local Jurisdiction's zoning ordinances. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(a)]
APPLICABLE BUILDING. A building that has residential, commercial, educational, institutional or similar occupancy type use.
[A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.
[A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where such organization has been approved by the code official.
[A] BUILDING. Any structure intended for supporting or sheltering any occupancy.
BUILDING (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Any Structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or Occupancy, except those classified as Utility and Miscellaneous Group U. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(c)]
[A] BUILDING OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the California Building Code, or the building official’s duly authorized representative.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION. Written documentation that the project or work for which a permit was issued has been completed in conformance with requirements of this code.
[A] CODE OFFICIAL. The official designated by the jurisdiction to interpret and enforce this code, or the code official’s authorized representative.
CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER. A set of weather conditions (usually a combination of low relative humidity and wind) whose effects on fire behavior make control difficult and threaten firefighter safety.
DEAD-END ROAD (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A road that has only one point of vehicular ingress/egress, including cul-de- sacs and roads that loop back on themselves. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(e)]
DEFENSIBLE SPACE. See Sections 403.1.1 and 601.3.
DRIVEWAY (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A vehicular pathway route that serves not more than four (4) Residential Units and any number of noncommercial or nonindustrial Utility or Miscellaneous Group U Buildings. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(i)]
[BG] DWELLING. A building that contains one or two dwelling units used, intended or designed to be used, rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied for living purposes.
CFC § 1.5 High relevance — show source text
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 2-1
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2-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words stated in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; and the singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have their ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A building or structure used to shelter or support any material, equipment, chattel or occupancy other than a habitable building.
AGRICULTURE (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Land used for agricultural purposes as defined in a Local Jurisdiction's zoning ordinances. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(a)]
APPLICABLE BUILDING. A building that has residential, commercial, educational, institutional or similar occupancy type use.
[A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.
[A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where such organization has been approved by the code official.
[A] BUILDING. Any structure intended for supporting or sheltering any occupancy.
BUILDING (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Any Structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or Occupancy, except those classified as Utility and Miscellaneous Group U. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(c)]
CFC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
REPAIR|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |ROOF REPLACEMENT|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |SPC SEISMIC SEPARATION||||||||||X|X|||||||||||||| |SUBSTANDARD BUILDING||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |SUBSTANTIAL STRUCTURAL
DAMAGE||||||||||X|X|||||||||||||| |UNREINFORCED CONCRETE||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |UNREINFORCED MASONRY||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |UNSAFE|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |VOLUNTARY STRUCTURAL
IMPROVEMENTS||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |WORK AREA|||X||||||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the other California Codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in those codes. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] For terms not defined in this chapter, refer to Chapters 6 and 7 of the California Administrative Code, and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Definitions of terms given in Section 4-207 or 4-314 of the California Administrative Code govern over those in Section 202.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multi- family dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)
CFC § 1.11 High relevance — show source text
R201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
R201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code such terms shall have the meanings ascribed in the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
R201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION R202—DEFINITIONS
[RB] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, an appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2)
[RB] ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A structure that is accessory to and incidental to that of the dwelling(s) or townhouse(s) and that is located on the same lot.
[RB] ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area, number of stories or height of a building or structure.
[RB] ADHERED STONE OR MASONRY VENEER. Stone or masonry veneer secured and supported through the adhesion of an approved bonding material applied to an approved backing.
AGED HOME OR INSTITUTION. A facility used for the housing of persons 65 years of age or older in need of care and supervision. (See defi- nition of “care and supervision.”)
[MP] AIR, OUTDOOR. Ambient air that enters a building through a ventilation system, through intentional openings for natural ventilation or by infiltration.
[MP] AIR, TRANSFER. Air moved from one indoor space to another.
[MP] AIR ADMITTANCE VALVE. A one-way valve designed to allow air into the plumbing drainage system where a negative pressure develops in the piping. This device shall close by gravity and seal the terminal under conditions of zero differential pressure (no flow conditions) and under positive internal pressure.
[MP] AIR BREAK (DRAINAGE SYSTEM). An arrangement where a discharge pipe from a fixture, appliance or device drains indirectly into a receptor below the flood-level rim of the receptor and above the trap seal.
[MP] AIR CIRCULATION, FORCED. A means of providing space conditioning utilizing movement of air through ducts or plenums by mechanical means.
[MP] AIR GAP, DRAINAGE SYSTEM. The unobstructed vertical distance through free atmosphere between the outlet of a waste pipe and the flood-level rim of the fixture or receptor into which it is discharging.
CFC § 203.7.3 High relevance — show source text
Title 19, Division 1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.3.6 - 203.7.3.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.4.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.3.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.12|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.13|||X|||||||||||||||||||||- 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.
2-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code. General definitions are located in Section 202 and occupancy classification definitions are located in Section 203.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
CFC § 2-3 High relevance — show source text
SYSTEM||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |VENTILATION||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |WATER HEATER||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |WHOLE-HOUSE MECHANICAL
VENTILATION SYSTEM||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE (WUI)|||X|||||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: †
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 2-3
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Part II—Definitions
2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to definitions in this chapter preceded by a bracketed letter are considered by the IRC—Building Code Development Committee [RB], the IRC—Mechanical/Plumbing Code Development Committee [MP] or the IECC—Residential Code Development Committee [RE] during the Group B (2025) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION R201—GENERAL
R201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings indicated in this chapter.
R201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
R201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code such terms shall have the meanings ascribed in the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
R201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION R202—DEFINITIONS
[RB] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, an appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2)
CFC § 2-1 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt entire CA chapter X X X Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter/Section 201 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL
CODE† † † LOW-RISE
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING† † † PLANTS † † † RESIDENTIAL BUILDING † † † RESILIENT FLOORING † † † The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 2-1
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2 DEFINITIONS
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other documents. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Stan- dards Code or other referenced documents, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those publications.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined as specified in this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
CFC § 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Division 1
Section|Gov Code
Section|PRC
Section|HSC
Section| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |Section|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title| |Chapter 2|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions|Definitions| |201|General|Y||||||||| |201.1|Scope|Y||||||||| |201.2|Interchangeability|Y||||||||| |201.3|Terms defined in
other codes|Y||201.3||||||| |201.4|Terms not defined|Y||||||||| |202|Definitions|Y||||||||| ||Accessory structure|Y||||||||| ||Agriculture (T14)|Y||||1270.01(1)||||| ||Applicable building|Y||702A||||||| ||Approved|Y||||||||| ||Approved agency|Y||||||||| ||Building|Y||||1270.01(c)||||| ||Building (T14)|Y||||||||| ||Building official|Y||||||||| ||Certificate of
completion|Y||||||||| ||Code official|Y||||||||| ||Critical fire weather|Y||||||||| ||Dead-end road (T14)|Y||||1270.01(e)||||| ||Defensible space (T14)|Y||||||||| ||Driveway (T14)|Y||||||||| ||Dwelling|Y||702A||1270.01(i)||||| ||Exterior wall assembly|Y||702A||||||| ||Exterior wall covering|Y||702A||||||| ||Fire chief|Y||||||||| ||Fire code official|Y|||202|||||| ||Fire flow calculation
area|Y||||||||| ||Fire hazard severity
zones|Y||702A|4902.1|||2201||| ||Fire protection plan|Y||702A|4902.1|||||| ||Fire weather|Y||||||||| ||Fire-resistance-rated
construction|Y||||||||| ||Fire-smart vegetation|Y|||4902.1|1271.01||||| ||Flame spread index|Y||||||||| ||Fuel|Y||||||||4291(a)(1)(A)| ||Fuel break_(T14)|Y||||1270.01(n)||||| ||Fuel modification|Y||||||||| ||Fuel mosaic|Y||||||||| ||Fuel-loading|Y||||||||| ||Green belt(T14)|Y||||1270.01(o)||||| ||Greenways (T14)|Y||||1270.01(p)||||| ||Hammerhead/T (T14)|Y||||1270.01(q)||||| ||Hazardous land use
(T14)_|Y||||1270.01(r)||||| ||Hazardous materials|Y||||||||| ||Heavy timber
construction|Y||||||||| ||Ignition-resistant
building material|Y||||||||| ||Local responsibility
area (LRA)|Y||702A|4902.1|||||| ||Log wall construction|Y|||||||||2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-25
Frequently asked questions
When do I stop searching other codes and use the dictionary?
Stop after you check the California Building Code, California Mechanical Code and California Plumbing Code named in § 201.3. If none defines the term, then use the ordinarily accepted/dictionary meaning under § 201.4.
Which dictionary does the CFC point to?
The CFC specifically cites Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, as a source for ordinarily accepted meanings under § 201.4.
If a term is defined differently in the CBC and the CMC, which do I use?
If the term is not defined in the CFC and both referenced codes define it differently, you must adopt the definition from the California code that is applicable to the subject matter as used in your CFC context — typically the code whose subject matter governs that feature (e.g., mechanical equipment definitions usually come from the CMC). Always document which California code definition you used and why, consistent with § 201.3.
Does a national standard or trade dictionary override the CFC rule?
No. The CFC requires adopting definitions from the listed California codes first; only if those codes lack a definition does § 201.4 permit using a dictionary. National standards are not a substitute unless the code explicitly references them elsewhere.
What if a local ordinance provides a different definition?
Local ordinances do not supersede the CFC’s stated hierarchy for interpreting terms under § 201.3/201.4 unless the local authority has the legal power to adopt amendments; in such cases, document the legal basis for using the local definition and reconcile it with the CFC. Check agency adoption notes in the code front matter.
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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