CFC · California Fire Code
When do construction/design provisions apply versus administrative/maintenance provisions?
Construction/design rules in the California Fire Code apply mainly to new work and specific existing situations (not-legally-existing work, Chapter 11 triggers, or hazards the fire code official finds) under **§ 102.1**; operational, administrative and maintenance rules apply broadly to operations and existing conditions under **§ 102.2**.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The construction and design provisions apply to new work and a limited set of existing conditions: specifically structures, facilities and conditions arising after adoption, those not legally in existence at adoption, those required by Chapter 11, and existing conditions the fire code official finds to be a distinct hazard — see § 102.1 .
The administrative, operational and maintenance provisions apply broadly to conditions and operations arising after adoption and to existing conditions and operations — see § 102.2 .
The short rule: design/construction rules control what gets built or materially changed; administrative/maintenance rules control how buildings and systems are used and kept over time (including existing buildings) — see § 102.1 and § 102.2 .
Requirements in detail
Key defined terms (first mention bolded): construction and design provisions, administrative, operational and maintenance provisions, existing, new, fire code official, Chapter 11.
Which set applies — decision dimensions
Use the table below as a decision checklist. Each row is a decision-relevant dimension; the Code Reference column points to the controlling section(s).
| Decision factor (what happened?) | If yes — Construction / Design applies | If yes — Administrative / Maintenance applies | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work or condition arises after adoption of this edition (new construction, installation, or operation) | Yes — construction/design provisions apply | Yes — administrative/operations/maintenance provisions also apply for ongoing operation | § 102.1 and § 102.2 |
| Structure/condition not legally in existence at adoption (e.g., illegal add-on discovered after adoption) | Construction/design provisions apply | Administrative provisions also apply | § 102.1 |
| Existing building feature covered specifically by Chapter 11 (referenced existing-building/alteration rules) | Construction/design provisions may apply as required by Chapter 11 | Administrative provisions continue to apply | § 102.1 |
| Existing condition that the fire code official determines to be a distinct hazard | Construction/design provisions may be imposed | Administrative/maintenance provisions also apply | § 102.1 |
| Routine existing conditions or operations (no change, no distinct hazard finding) | Generally construction/design provisions do NOT retroactively apply | Administrative/operational/maintenance provisions apply (always) | § 102.2 |
| Change of occupancy | Construction/design requirements apply to bring the occupancy into compliance unless exception granted by official (see § 102.3) | Administrative provisions apply | § 102.3 |
Notes:
- A single project can trigger both categories: e.g., a new sprinkler (construction) must be installed to design standards and then kept operational under maintenance rules; both § 102.1 and § 102.2 therefore apply to different aspects of the same system .
- Where conflict exists, the Code provides rules on precedence (specific vs general and most restrictive — see related provisions below) .
How to apply the two sets in practice
- Construction/design provisions are about what is required when you build, alter, add, or otherwise create a new condition (materials, fire-resistance ratings, system design, access, water supply). See § 102.1 .
- Administrative/operational/maintenance provisions are about how you operate and preserve the features (inspections, testing, training, housekeeping, maintenance, operational limitations). See § 102.2 .
Exceptions & special cases
- Change-of-occupancy exception: a jurisdiction may permit a change of occupancy without complying with all code requirements if the fire code official approves and the new use is less hazardous based on life and fire risk — see § 102.3 .
- Residential-code interplay: where structures follow the California Residential Code, the CFC’s construction provisions related to the exterior (premises identification, fire apparatus access, water supplies) still apply and interior systems requiring permits are controlled by Section 105.6; administrative/maintenance provisions apply as well — see § 102.5 .
- Historic buildings: construction/alteration provisions may be waived for designated historic buildings unless they constitute a distinct hazard; fire protection may be provided by an approved fire protection plan per § 1103.1.1 as referenced in the historic exception — see § 102.6 .
- Fire code official discretion: for existing features judged a distinct hazard, the official can require compliance with construction/design provisions even though the feature predates the code — see § 102.1(4) .
If you need a jurisdiction-specific exception (local amendments or state-adopted distinctions), those are not reproduced here and should be checked with your AHJ; the file excerpts provided include the state-adopted notes but not every local amendment .
Common mistakes
- Treating maintenance rules as optional for older buildings. Administrative/maintenance provisions in § 102.2 apply to existing conditions and operations — they are not limited to new construction .
- Assuming construction provisions always retroactively apply to all existing buildings — they generally do not, except in the situations listed in § 102.1 (new work, not legally existing, Chapter 11 triggers, or distinct hazard) .
- Forgetting dual applicability: when you install new equipment (construction/design), you must also follow maintenance, testing, and operational requirements once it is in service (administrative/maintenance) — both § 102.1 and § 102.2 apply .
- Overlooking Chapter cross-references (for example, historic buildings, residential code, or building-code requirements) — check § 102.4–102.7 for referenced-code interplay and precedence .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A grocery store (existing occupancy) wants to build a new 2,500 sq ft refrigerated storage room attached to the existing building, and also install a CO2 refrigeration system.
Step 1 — Is the new room a condition “arising after adoption”? Yes — that triggers construction/design provisions for that new structure and systems: the owner must comply with construction/design requirements for the new room and refrigeration system (materials, fire-resistance-rated construction, system design, ventilation) under § 102.1 .
Step 2 — Are Chapter 11 or other chapters applicable? If Chapter 11 or a specific refrigeration chapter requires retrofit measures for the existing building where the new room interfaces, Chapter 11 requirements would apply to those existing portions as described in § 102.1(3) .
Step 3 — Administrative/maintenance obligations: Once installed, the refrigeration system and CO2 detection/ventilation are subject to operational, testing, inspection, and maintenance provisions that apply to existing and new operations under § 102.2 (e.g., ongoing inspections, monitoring, emergency procedures) — these apply regardless of the building’s existing status .
Numeric summary:
- New attached room = construction/design rules apply to that new work (§ 102.1) .
- Ongoing CO2 system monitoring and maintenance = administrative/maintenance rules apply to operations after installation and to existing operations (§ 102.2) .
- If the fire code official finds the existing configuration poses a distinct hazard, they could require additional construction-level upgrades to existing portions (§ 102.1(4)) .
Related provisions
- § 102.3 — Change of use or occupancy (exceptions and approval by fire code official)
- § 102.4 — Application of building code (CBC interplay for design/construction)
- § 102.5 — Application for residential-code structures (how CFC applies to residential buildings)
- § 102.6 — Historic buildings (when construction provisions may be waived)
- § 102.7 — Referenced codes and standards (precedence and conflicts)
- § 701.1–701.6 — Fire- and smoke-resistance maintenance and owner responsibilities (example of maintenance provisions applying to existing construction)
If you want, I can map a specific project (address/jurisdiction + scope of work) to these rules and produce a short checklist for plan reviewers and inspectors that cites the exact CFC sections.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 Construction and design provisions. The construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions where required in Chapter 11.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions that, in the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.
[A] 102.2 Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions. The administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Conditions and operations arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing conditions and operations.
[A] 102.3 Change of use or occupancy. A change of occupancy shall not be made unless the use or occupancy is made to comply with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code .
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, a change of occupancy shall be permitted without complying with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code, provided that the new or proposed use or occupancy is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use or occupancy.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
[A] 102.4 Application of building code. The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the California Building Code, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the California Building Code, shall be made in accordance therewith.
[A] 102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residen- tial Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
- Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 shall apply.
- Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.6 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code relating to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings where such buildings or structures do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Fire protection in designated historic buildings shall be provided with an approved fire protection plan as required in Section 1103.1.1.
[A] 102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80, and such codes and standards shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated by Sections 102.7.1 and 102.7.2.
[A] 102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
CFC § 101.1 High relevance — show source text
PART 1—GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Note: Sections adopted or amended by state agencies are specifically indicated by an agency banner or indicated in the Matrix Adoption Table.
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Fire Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. This code establishes regulations affecting or relating to structures, processes, premises and safeguards regarding all of the following:
- The hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices.
- Conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises.
- Fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
- Matters related to the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire protection systems.
- Conditions affecting the safety of firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
[A] 101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions in new and existing buildings, structures and premises, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
[A] 101.4 Severability. If a section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is, for any reason, held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this code.
[A] 101.5 Validity. In the event 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 hereof, which are determined to be legal; and it shall be presumed that this code would have been adopted without such illegal or invalid parts or provisions.
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 Construction and design provisions. The construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions where required in Chapter 11.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions that, in the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.
[A] 102.2 Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions. The administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Conditions and operations arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing conditions and operations.
[A] 102.3 Change of use or occupancy. A change of occupancy shall not be made unless the use or occupancy is made to comply with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code .
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, a change of occupancy shall be permitted without complying with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code, provided that the new or proposed use or occupancy is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use or occupancy.
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CFC § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
The IFC sets forth minimum requirements for these and other hazards and contains requirements for maintaining the life safety of building occupants; protecting emergency responders; and limiting the damage to a building and its contents as the result of a fire, explosion or unauthorized hazardous material discharge.
As described, the IFC has many types of requirements for buildings and facilities. The applicability of these requirements varies. An understanding of the applicability of requirements, as addressed in Sections 102.1 and 102.2, is necessary. Section 102.1 addresses when the construction and design provisions are applicable, whereas Section 102.2 addresses when the administrative, operational and maintenance provisions are applicable. Generally, the construction and design provisions apply to only new buildings or existing buildings and occupancies as addressed by Chapter 11. The administrative, maintenance and operational requirements are applicable to all buildings and facilities, whether new or existing.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CFC
Before applying the requirements of the CFC, it is beneficial to understand its arrangement and format. The CFC, like other codes published by the ICC, is arranged and organized to follow sequential steps that generally occur during a plan review or inspection.
The CFC is organized into seven parts. Each part represents a broad subject matter and includes the chapters that logically fit under the subject matter of each part. It is also foreseeable that additional chapters will need to be added in the future as regulations for new processes or operations are developed. Accordingly, the structure was designed to accommodate such future chapters by providing reserved (unused) chapters in several of the parts. This will allow the subject matter parts to be conveniently and logically expanded without requiring a major renumbering of the CFC chapters.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 PARTS AND CHAPTERS SUBJECTS Part I—Chapters 1 and 2 Administrative and definitions Part II—Chapters 3 and 4 General safety provisions Part III—Chapters 5 through 12 Building and equipment design features Part III—Chapters 13 through 19 Reserved for future use Part IV—Chapters 20 through 41_; 48 and 49_ Special occupancies and operations Part IV—Chapters 42 through_47_ Reserved for future use Part V—Chapters 50, 51 and 53 through 67 Hazardous materials Part V—Chapters_ 52,_ 68 through 79 Reserved for future use Part VI—Chapter 80 Referenced standards Part VII—Appendices A through Q Adoptable and informational appendices 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE xiii
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California Building Code Correlated Topics
The CFC requirements for fire-resistance-rated construction, interior finish, fire protection systems, means of egress and construction safeguards are directly correlated to the chapters containing parallel requirements in the CBC as follows:
CFC § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
Please visit the ICC website at iccsafe.org/products-and-services/i-codes/code-development/current-code-development-cycle for further information on the Code Development Committee responsibilities as it becomes available.
Coordination of the I-Codes
The coordination of technical provisions allows the I-Codes to be used as a complete set of complementary documents. Individual codes can also be used in subsets or as stand-alone documents. Some technical provisions that are relevant to more than one subject area are duplicated in multiple model codes.
INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE
The IFC is a model code that regulates minimum fire safety requirements for new and existing buildings, facilities, storage and processes. The IFC addresses fire prevention, fire protection, life safety and safe storage and use of hazardous materials in new and existing buildings, facilities and processes. The IFC provides a total approach of controlling hazards in all buildings and sites, regardless of the hazard being indoors or outdoors.
The IFC is a design document. For example, before one constructs a building, the site must be provided with an adequate water supply for firefighting operations and a means of building access for emergency responders in the event of a medical emergency, fire or natural or technological disaster. Depending on the building’s occupancy and uses, the IFC regulates the various hazards that may be housed within the building, including refrigeration systems, application of flammable finishes, fueling of motor vehicles, highpiled combustible storage, and the storage and use of hazardous materials. The IFC sets forth minimum requirements for these and other hazards and contains requirements for maintaining the life safety of building occupants; protecting emergency responders; and limiting the damage to a building and its contents as the result of a fire, explosion or unauthorized hazardous material discharge.
As described, the IFC has many types of requirements for buildings and facilities. The applicability of these requirements varies. An understanding of the applicability of requirements, as addressed in Sections 102.1 and 102.2, is necessary. Section 102.1 addresses when the construction and design provisions are applicable, whereas Section 102.2 addresses when the administrative, operational and maintenance provisions are applicable. Generally, the construction and design provisions apply to only new buildings or existing buildings and occupancies as addressed by Chapter 11. The administrative, maintenance and operational requirements are applicable to all buildings and facilities, whether new or existing.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CFC
Before applying the requirements of the CFC, it is beneficial to understand its arrangement and format. The CFC, like other codes published by the ICC, is arranged and organized to follow sequential steps that generally occur during a plan review or inspection.
The CFC is organized into seven parts. Each part represents a broad subject matter and includes the chapters that logically fit under the subject matter of each part. It is also foreseeable that additional chapters will need to be added in the future as regulations for new processes or operations are developed. Accordingly, the structure was designed to accommodate such future chapters by providing reserved (unused) chapters in several of the parts. This will allow the subject matter parts to be conveniently and logically expanded without requiring a major renumbering of the CFC chapters.
CFC § 102.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residen- tial Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
- Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 shall apply.
- Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.6 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code relating to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings where such buildings or structures do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Fire protection in designated historic buildings shall be provided with an approved fire protection plan as required in Section 1103.1.1.
[A] 102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80, and such codes and standards shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated by Sections 102.7.1 and 102.7.2.
[A] 102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.7.2 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, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
[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.
CFC § 317.2 High relevance — show source text
317.2 Scope. All alterations, structurally connected additions and/or repairs to existing structures or portions thereof shall, at a minimum, be designed and constructed to resist the effects of seismic ground motions as provided in this section. The structural system shall be evaluated by a registered design professional and, if not meeting or exceeding the minimum seismic design performance requirements of this section, shall be retrofitted in compliance with these requirements.
Exception: Those structures for which Section 317.3 determines that assessment is not required, or for which Section 317.4 determines that retrofit is not needed, then only the requirements of Section 317.11 apply.
317.3 Applicability.
317.3.1 Existing state-owned buildings. [BSC, DSA-SS] For existing state-owned structures including all buildings owned by the University of California and the California State University, the requirements of Section 317 apply whenever the structure is to be retrofitted, repaired or modified and any of the following apply: 1. Total construction cost, not including cost of furnishings, fixtures and equipment, or normal maintenance, for the building exceeds 25 percent of the construction cost for the replacement of the existing building. The changes are cumulative for past modifications to the building that occurred after adoption of the 1995 California Building Code and did not require seismic retrofit.
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
2. There are changes in risk category. 3. The modification to the structural components increases the seismic forces in or strength requirements of any structural component of the existing structure by more than 10 percent cumulative since the original construction, unless the component has the capacity to resist the increased forces determined in accordance with Section 319. If the building’s seismic base shear capacity has been increased since the original construction, the percent change in base shear may be calculated relative to the increased value.
4. Structural elements need repair where the damage has reduced the lateral-load-resisting capacity of the structural system by more than 10 percent. 5. Changes in live or dead load increase story shear by more than 10 percent.
317.3.2 Public school buildings. [DSA-SS] For public schools, the provisions of Section 317 apply when required in accordance with Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code.
317.3.3 Community college buildings. [DSA-SS/CC] For community colleges, the provisions of Section 317 apply when required in accordance with Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code.
317.4 Evaluation required. If the criteria in Section 317.3 apply to the project under consideration, the design professional of record shall provide an evaluation in accordance with Section 317 to determine the seismic performance of the building in its current configuration and condition. If the structure's seismic performance as required by Section 317.5 is evaluated as satisfactory and the peer reviewer(s), when Method B of Section 321 is used, concur, then no structural retrofit is required.
_**317.5 Minimum seismic design performance levels for structural and nonstructural components.
CFC § 317.1.2.1 High relevance — show source text
The provisions of Section 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing public buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS.
317.1.2.1 Reference to other chapters. For public schools, where reference within this chapter is made to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 or 22 of the California Building Code, the provisions in Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A of the California Building Code, respectively, shall apply instead.
317.1.3 Community college buildings. [DSA-SS/CC] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as community college buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety/Community Colleges [DSA-SS/CC], refer to Section 1.9.2.2.
The provisions of Section 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing community college buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS/CC.
317.1.3.1 Reference to other chapters. For community colleges, where reference within this chapter is made to sections in Chapters 17 or 18 of the California Building Code, the provisions in Chapters 17A and 18A of the California Building Code, respectively, shall apply instead.
317.2 Scope. All alterations, structurally connected additions and/or repairs to existing structures or portions thereof shall, at a minimum, be designed and constructed to resist the effects of seismic ground motions as provided in this section. The structural system shall be evaluated by a registered design professional and, if not meeting or exceeding the minimum seismic design performance requirements of this section, shall be retrofitted in compliance with these requirements.
Exception: Those structures for which Section 317.3 determines that assessment is not required, or for which Section 317.4 determines that retrofit is not needed, then only the requirements of Section 317.11 apply.
317.3 Applicability.
317.3.1 Existing state-owned buildings. [BSC, DSA-SS] For existing state-owned structures including all buildings owned by the University of California and the California State University, the requirements of Section 317 apply whenever the structure is to be retrofitted, repaired or modified and any of the following apply: 1. Total construction cost, not including cost of furnishings, fixtures and equipment, or normal maintenance, for the building exceeds 25 percent of the construction cost for the replacement of the existing building. The changes are cumulative for past modifications to the building that occurred after adoption of the 1995 California Building Code and did not require seismic retrofit.
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
CFC § 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE APPENDIX O-1
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O PERFORMANCE-BASED APPLICATION
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency or referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Appendix O provides an optional design, review and approval framework for use by the building official. Typical uses would include cases of alternate methods in Chapter 1, select areas of the code that require a rational analysis such as Section 909 and elsewhere. It simply extracts the relevant administrative provisions from the ICC Performance Code into a more concise, usable appendix format for a jurisdiction confronted with such a need. Currently there are multiple, varying jurisdictional rules and procedures in many communities regarding procedure and none in even more. The building official is often left alone to reach decisions not just on the merits of a design but must first also decide on the submittal and review process. As an appendix, the provisions herein are entirely optional to a jurisdiction. This appendix can be adopted, adopted with local modifications, or even used on a case-by-case basis as part of a Memorandum of Understanding or similar legal agreement between the jurisdiction and the owner/design team. It simply represents another tool for the jurisdiction to reach for in cases of need; it neither encourages nor creates any additional opportunity for performance-based design.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this appendix will be considered by the Administrative Code Development Committee during the
2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
[A] SECTION O101—GENERAL
O101.1 Introduction. The following administrative provisions are excerpted from the International Code Council Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities and can be used in conjunction with the Alternate Methods provisions in Chapter 1, or for a review of submittals requiring a rational analysis or performance-based design. These provisions provide an established framework for the building official in terms of the design expertise needed, the necessary submittals, a review framework and related items.
O101.2 Qualifications. Registered design professionals shall possess the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to demonstrate compliance with this code.
O101.3 Construction document preparation. Construction documents required by this code shall be prepared in adequate detail and submitted for review and approval in accordance with Section 107.
O101.3.1 Review. Construction documents submitted in accordance with this code shall be reviewed for code compliance with the appropriate code provisions in accordance with Section 107.
O101.4 Construction. Construction shall comply with the approved construction documents submitted in accordance with this code, and shall be verified and approved to demonstrate compliance with this code.
O101.4.1 Facility operating policies and procedures. Policies, operations, training and procedures shall comply with approved documents submitted in accordance with this code, and shall be verified and approved to demonstrate compliance with this code.
O101.4.2 Maintenance. Maintenance of the performance-based design shall be ensured throughout the life of the building or portion thereof.
O101.4.3 Changes. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible to ensure that any change to the facility, process or system does not increase the hazard level beyond that originally designed without approval and that changes shall be documented in accordance with the code.
O101.5 Documentation. The registered design professional shall prepare appropriate documentation for the project, clearly detailing the approach and rationale for the design submittal, the construction and the future use of the buildin
CFC § 101.4.5 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 101.4.5 Fire prevention. The provisions of the California Fire Code shall apply to matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises from the hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices; from conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; and from the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression, automatic sprinkler systems and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
[A] 101.4.6 Energy. The provisions of the California Energy Code shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 101.4.7 Existing buildings. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to matters governing the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of existing buildings.
[OSHPD 1] The provisions of Chapters 2, 3A, 4A and 5A of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to all matters governing the repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, additions and relocation of existing structures and portions thereof under OSHPD jurisdic- tion. All references to Chapters 3, 4 and 5 of the California Existing Building Code shall be replaced by equivalent provisions in Chapters 3A, 4A and 5A.
[OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 & 5] The provisions of the California Existing Building Code, Chapters 2, 3, 4 and 5 shall apply to all matters govern- ing the repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, additions and relocation of existing structures and portions thereof under OSHPD jurisdiction.
101.4.8 Wildland-urban interface. The provisions of Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and structures built in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) or a Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
[A] 102.3 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.
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 through 102.4.4.
[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.
CFC § 301.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 301—ADMINISTRATION
301.1 Applicability. The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with Section 301.2, 301.3 or 301.4. The provisions of Sections 302 through 309 shall apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocation of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Section 301.4 not permitted by OSHPD.
Exceptions: 1. Existing state-owned structures. [BSC] The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 317 through 322 as the minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing state-owned structures, including buildings owned by the University of California, the California State University or the Judicial Council. The provisions of Sections 317 through 322 may be adopted by a local jurisdiction for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing buildings. 2. Public school buildings [DSA-SS] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as public school buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety (DSA-SS, refer to Section 1.9.2.1) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing public school buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS. 3. Community college buildings. [DSA-SS/CC] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as community college buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC, refer to Section 1.9.2.2) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing community college buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS/CC. 4. [HCD 1] In addition to the requirements in this chapter, maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures under the authority of the Department of Housing and Community Development, as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.1, shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1.
Exceptions: 1. [HCD 2] For moved buildings and maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures in mobilehome parks or special occupancy parks as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.3, see California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapters 2 and 2.2. 2. [HCD 1] Limited-density owner-built rural dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Residential Code. _**5.
CFC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 7-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
7-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
7 FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides requirements to maintain the fire-resistance ratings of building elements and to limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the maintenance of and owner’s responsibility for construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers. The rest of the chapter deals with various aspects that also must be maintained to achieve overall fire resistance of the main fire- and smoke-resistive features. These include penetrations, joint protection, door and window openings, and duct and air transfer opening protection.
SECTION 701—GENERAL
701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the inspection and maintenance of the materials, systems and assemblies used for structural fire resistance, fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces and construction installed to resist the passage of smoke to safeguard against the spread of fire and smoke within a building and the spread of fire to or from buildings. New buildings shall comply with the California Building Code.
701.2 Fire-resistance-rated construction. The fire-resistance rating of the following fire-resistance-rated construction shall be maintained:
Structural members.
Exterior walls.
Fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions.
Horizontal assemblies.
Shaft enclosures.
701.2.1 Hanging displays. The hanging and displaying of salable goods and other decorative materials from acoustical ceiling systems that are part of a fire-resistance-rated horizontal assembly shall be prohibited.
701.3 Smoke barriers. The fire-resistance rating and smoke-resistant characteristics of smoke barriers shall be maintained.
701.4 Smoke partitions. The smoke-resistant characteristics of smoke partitions shall be maintained.
701.5 Maintaining protection. Materials, systems and devices used to repair or protect breaches and openings in fire-resistance-rated construction and construction installed to resist the passage of smoke shall be maintained in accordance with Sections 703 through 707.
701.6 Owner’s responsibility. The owner shall maintain an inventory of all required fire-resistance-rated construction, construction installed to resist the passage of smoke and the construction included in Sections 703 through 707 and Sections 602.4.1 and 602.4.2 of the California Building Code . Such construction shall be visually inspected by the owner annually and properly repaired, restored or replaced where damaged, altered, breached or penetrated. Where concealed, such elements shall not be required to be visually inspected by the owner unless the concealed space is accessible by the removal or movement of a panel, access door, ceiling tile or similar movable entry to the space.
CFC § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text
ADMINISTRATION
DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. Chapter 1 is in two parts: Part 1—Scope and Application (Sections 101–102) and Part 2—Administration and Enforcement (Sections 103–116). Section 101 identifies which buildings and structures come under its purview and references other ICodes as applicable. Standards and codes are scoped to the extent referenced (see Section 102.4).
This code is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document and it cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner. Chapter 1 is largely concerned with maintaining “due process of law” in enforcing the building performance criteria contained in the body of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this chapter will be considered by the Administrative Code Development Committee during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
Section 104 was revised for the 2024 edition. For complete information, see the Relocations table in the Preface of this code.
Note: Sections adopted or amended by state agencies are specifically indicated by an agency banner.
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the California Residential Code .
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
[A] 101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, health and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
[A] 101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes specified in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
Frequently asked questions
When does the fire code official have authority to require construction-level upgrades to existing buildings?
When the official determines that an existing structure, facility, or condition constitutes a distinct hazard to life or property; that finding allows application of the construction/design provisions to existing work under § 102.1(4) .
Do maintenance rules ever require immediate work on existing buildings?
Yes. Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions in § 102.2 apply to existing conditions and operations and can require repairs, inspections, or operational changes to correct hazards or noncompliance .
If I replace a rooftop HVAC unit, do construction rules apply or only maintenance rules?
Replacing equipment is typically a construction/installation activity (new work) and must meet construction/design provisions for that new installation; once installed, the equipment is subject to administrative/maintenance requirements under § 102.2 .
Does Chapter 11 always make construction provisions apply to existing buildings?
Chapter 11 contains specific requirements that can require construction-level work on existing buildings — where Chapter 11 requires it, § 102.1(3) makes construction/design provisions applicable .
Are there special rules for houses built under the Residential Code?
Yes. Where structures are built under the California Residential Code, CFC construction provisions related to the exterior (e.g., fire apparatus access, water supplies) still apply, and administrative/maintenance provisions also apply — see § 102.5 .
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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