Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)

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

• CFC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text

  Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies.
  c. Fifty gallons of lead-acid battery electrolyte shall be considered equivalent to 70 kWh.
  d. Covers nonelectrochemical technologies such as flywheel and thermal ESS.|

  12-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

  ENERGY SYSTEMS

  1207.1.4 Permits. Permits shall be obtained for ESS as follows:

  1. Construction permits shall be obtained for stationary ESS installations and for mobile ESS charging and storage installations covered by Section 1207.10.1. Permits shall be obtained in accordance with Section 105.6.6.
  2. Operational permits shall be obtained for stationary ESS installations and for mobile ESS deployment operations covered by Section 1207.10.3. Permits shall be obtained in accordance with Section 105.5.14.

  1207.1.4.1 Communication utilities. Operational permits shall not be required for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities that comply with NFPA 76 and operate at less than 50 voltage alternating current (VAC) and 60 voltage direct current (VDC).

  1207.1.5 Construction documents. The following information shall be provided with the permit application:

  1. Location and layout diagram of the room or area in which the ESS is to be installed.
  2. Details on the hourly fire-resistance ratings of assemblies enclosing the ESS.
  3. The quantities and types of ESS to be installed.
  4. Manufacturer’s specifications, ratings and listings of each ESS.
  5. Description of energy (battery) management systems and their operation.
  6. Location and content of required signage.
  7. Details on fire suppression, smoke or fire detection, thermal management, ventilation, exhaust and deflagration venting systems, if provided.
  8. Support arrangement associated with the installation, including any required seismic restraint.
  9. A commissioning plan complying with Section 1207.2.1.
  10. A decommissioning plan complying with Section 1207.2.3.
  11. A fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404.

  1207.1.5.1 Utilities applicability. Plans and specifications associated with ESS owned and operated by electric utilities as a component of the electric grid that are considered critical infrastructure documents in accordance with the provisions of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation and other applicable governmental laws and regulations shall be made available to the fire code official for viewing based on the requirements of the applicable governmental laws and regulations. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.1.6 Hazard mitigation analysis. A failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) or other approved hazard mitigation analysis shall be provided in accordance with Section 104.2.2 under any of the following conditions:

  1. Where ESS technologies not specifically identified in Table 1207.1.3 are provided.
  2. More than one ESS technology is provided in a single fire area where there is a potential for adverse interaction between technologies.
  3. Where allowed as a basis for increasing maximum allowable quantities. See Section 1207.5.2.
  4. Where required by the fire code official to address a potential hazard with an ESS installation that is not addressed by existing requirements.
• CFC § 12-9 Medium relevance — show source text

  2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-9

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

  ENERGY SYSTEMS

  1206.8 Outdoor installation. Stationary fuel cell power systems located outdoors shall be separated by not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the following:

  1. Lot lines.

  2. Public ways.

  3. Buildings.

  4. Stored combustible materials.

  5. Hazardous materials.

  6. High-piled stock.

  7. Any portion of a designated means of egress system.

  8. Other exposure hazards.

  1206.9 Fuel supply. The design, location and installation of the fuel supply for stationary fuel cell power systems shall comply with Chapter 53, Chapter 58 and the International Fuel Gas Code, based on the particular fuel being supplied to the system.

  1206.10 Manual shutoff. Access to a manual shutoff valve shall be provided for the fuel piping within 6 feet (1829 mm) of any fuel storage tank serving the fuel cell and within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the power system. If the fuel tank and the stationary fuel cell power system are less than 12 feet (3658 mm) apart, a single shutoff valve shall be permitted. If the stationary fuel cell power system is located indoors, the shutoff valve shall be located outside of the room in which the system is installed, unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.

  1206.11 Ventilation and exhaust. Ventilation and exhaust for stationary fuel cell power systems shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 853.

  1206.12 Fire protection. Fire protection systems for stationary fuel cell power system installations shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 853.

  1206.13 Group R-3 and R-4 fuel cell vehicle energy storage system use. The temporary use of the dwelling unit owner or occupant’s fuel cell-powered electric vehicle to power a Group R-3 or R-4 dwelling while parked in an attached or detached garage or outside shall comply with the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions and the California Electrical Code .

  SECTION 1207—ELECTRICAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (ESS)

  1207.1 General. The provisions in this section are applicable to stationary and mobile electrical energy storage systems (ESS).

  Exception: ESS in Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies shall only be required to comply with Section 1207.11 except where Section 1207.11.4 requires compliance with Sections 1207.1 through 1207.9.

  1207.1.1 Utilities and industrial applications. This section shall not apply to capacitors and capacitor equipment for electric utilities and industrial facilities used in applications such as flexible AC transmission (FACTS) devices, filter capacitor banks, power factor correction, and standalone capacitor banks for voltage correction and stabilization. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.1.2 Mobile ESS. Mobile ESS deployed at an electric utility substation or generation facility for 90 days or less shall not add to the threshold values in Table 1207.1.3 for the stationary ESS installation if both of the following conditions apply:

  1. The mobile ESS complies with Section 1207.10.
  2. The mobile ESS is being used only during periods in which the facility’s stationary ESS is being tested, repaired, retrofitted or replaced. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
• CFC § 1207.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text

  1207.4.2 Working clearances. Access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment in accordance with the California Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s instructions.

  1207.4.3 Fire-resistance-rated separations. Rooms and other indoor areas containing ESS shall be separated from other areas of the building in accordance with Section 1207.7.4. ESS shall be permitted to be in the same room with the equipment they support.

  1207.4.4 Seismic and structural design. Stationary ESS shall comply with the seismic design requirements in Chapter 16 of the California Building Code, and shall not exceed the floor loading limitation of the building.

  1207.4.5 Vehicle impact protection. Where ESS are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, including forklifts, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312.

  1207.4.6 Combustible storage. Combustible materials shall not be stored in ESS rooms, areas or walk-in units. Combustible materials in occupied work centers covered by Section 1207.4.10 shall be stored at least 3 feet (914 mm) from ESS cabinets.

  1207.4.7 Toxic and highly toxic gases. ESS that have the potential to release toxic and highly toxic gas during charging, discharging and normal use conditions shall be provided with a hazardous exhaust system in accordance with Chapter 5 of the California Mechanical Code .

  1207.4.8 Signage. Approved signs shall be provided on or adjacent to all entry doors for ESS rooms or areas and on enclosures of ESS cabinets and walk-in units located outdoors, on rooftops or in open parking garages. Signs designed to meet both the requirements of this section and the California Electrical Code shall be permitted. The signage shall include the following or equivalent:

  1. “ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM,” “BATTERY STORAGE SYSTEM,” “CAPACITOR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM” or the equivalent.

  2. The identification of the electrochemical ESS technology present.

  3. “ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS.”

  4. Where water-reactive electrochemical ESS are present, the signage shall include “APPLY NO WATER.”

  5. Current contact information, including phone number, for personnel authorized to service the equipment and for fire mitigation personnel required by Section 1207.1.8.1.

  Exception: Existing electrochemical ESS shall be permitted to include the signage required at the time they were installed. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.4.9 Security of installations. Rooms, areas and walk-in units in which electrochemical ESS are located shall be secured against unauthorized entry and safeguarded in an approved manner. Security barriers, fences, landscaping and other enclosures

  12-14 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

  ENERGY SYSTEMS

  shall not inhibit the required air flow to or exhaust from the electrochemical ESS and its components. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

• CFC § 1206.13 Medium relevance — show source text

  1206.13 Group R-3 and R-4 fuel cell vehicle energy storage system use. The temporary use of the dwelling unit owner or occupant’s fuel cell-powered electric vehicle to power a Group R-3 or R-4 dwelling while parked in an attached or detached garage or outside shall comply with the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions and the California Electrical Code .

  SECTION 1207—ELECTRICAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (ESS)

  1207.1 General. The provisions in this section are applicable to stationary and mobile electrical energy storage systems (ESS).

  Exception: ESS in Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies shall only be required to comply with Section 1207.11 except where Section 1207.11.4 requires compliance with Sections 1207.1 through 1207.9.

  1207.1.1 Utilities and industrial applications. This section shall not apply to capacitors and capacitor equipment for electric utilities and industrial facilities used in applications such as flexible AC transmission (FACTS) devices, filter capacitor banks, power factor correction, and standalone capacitor banks for voltage correction and stabilization. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.1.2 Mobile ESS. Mobile ESS deployed at an electric utility substation or generation facility for 90 days or less shall not add to the threshold values in Table 1207.1.3 for the stationary ESS installation if both of the following conditions apply:

  1. The mobile ESS complies with Section 1207.10.
  2. The mobile ESS is being used only during periods in which the facility’s stationary ESS is being tested, repaired, retrofitted or replaced. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.1.3 Scope. ESS having capacities exceeding the values shown in Table 1207.1.3 shall comply with this section. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  TABLE 1207.1.3—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (ESS) THRESHOLD QUANTITIES	Col2
  TECHNOLOGY	ENERGY CAPACITYa
  Capacitor ESS	3 kWh
  Flow batteriesb	20 kWh
  Lead-acid batteries, all types	70 kWhc
  Lithium-ion batteries	20 kWh
  Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) and nickel zinc (Ni-Zn) batteries	70 kWh
  Nonelectrochemical ESSd	70 kWh
  Other battery technologies	10 kWh
  Other electrochemical ESS technologies	3 kWh
  Sodium nickel chloride batteries	70 kWh
  Zinc manganese dioxide batteries (Zn-MnO2)	70 kWh
  For SI: 1 kilowatt hour = 3.6 megajoules. a. Energy capacity is the total energy capable of being stored (nameplate rating), not the usable energy rating. For units rated in amp-hours, kWh shall equal rated voltage times amp-hour rating divided by 1,000. b. Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies. c. Fifty gallons of lead-acid battery electrolyte shall be considered equivalent to 70 kWh. d. Covers nonelectrochemical technologies such as flywheel and thermal ESS.	For SI: 1 kilowatt hour = 3.6 megajoules. a. Energy capacity is the total energy capable of being stored (nameplate rating), not the usable energy rating.

• CFC § 1207.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text

  TABLE 1207.1.3—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (ESS) THRESHOLD QUANTITIES	Col2
  TECHNOLOGY	ENERGY CAPACITYa
  Capacitor ESS	3 kWh
  Flow batteriesb	20 kWh
  Lead-acid batteries, all types	70 kWhc
  Lithium-ion batteries	20 kWh
  Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) and nickel zinc (Ni-Zn) batteries	70 kWh
  Nonelectrochemical ESSd	70 kWh
  Other battery technologies	10 kWh
  Other electrochemical ESS technologies	3 kWh
  Sodium nickel chloride batteries	70 kWh
  Zinc manganese dioxide batteries (Zn-MnO2)	70 kWh
  For SI: 1 kilowatt hour = 3.6 megajoules. a. Energy capacity is the total energy capable of being stored (nameplate rating), not the usable energy rating. For units rated in amp-hours, kWh shall equal rated voltage times amp-hour rating divided by 1,000. b. Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies. c. Fifty gallons of lead-acid battery electrolyte shall be considered equivalent to 70 kWh. d. Covers nonelectrochemical technologies such as flywheel and thermal ESS.	For SI: 1 kilowatt hour = 3.6 megajoules. a. Energy capacity is the total energy capable of being stored (nameplate rating), not the usable energy rating. For units rated in amp-hours, kWh shall equal rated voltage times amp-hour rating divided by 1,000. b. Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies. c. Fifty gallons of lead-acid battery electrolyte shall be considered equivalent to 70 kWh. d. Covers nonelectrochemical technologies such as flywheel and thermal ESS.

  12-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

  ENERGY SYSTEMS

  1207.1.4 Permits. Permits shall be obtained for ESS as follows:

  1. Construction permits shall be obtained for stationary ESS installations and for mobile ESS charging and storage installations covered by Section 1207.10.1. Permits shall be obtained in accordance with Section 105.6.6.
  2. Operational permits shall be obtained for stationary ESS installations and for mobile ESS deployment operations covered by Section 1207.10.3. Permits shall be obtained in accordance with Section 105.5.14.

  1207.1.4.1 Communication utilities. Operational permits shall not be required for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities that comply with NFPA 76 and operate at less than 50 voltage alternating current (VAC) and 60 voltage direct current (VDC).

  1207.1.5 Construction documents. The following information shall be provided with the permit application:

  1. Location and layout diagram of the room or area in which the ESS is to be installed.
  2. Details on the hourly fire-resistance ratings of assemblies enclosing the ESS.
  3. The quantities and types of ESS to be installed.
  4. Manufacturer’s specifications, ratings and listings of each ESS.
• CFC § 907.2.3 Medium relevance — show source text

  Early Suppression Fast-Response Sprinkler (ESFR) (see Automatic Sprinklers) Education Occupancy (Group E) 203 Alarms and detection 907.2.3 Means of egress Aisles 1018.2, 1018.5 Corridors 1020.3, 1020.2 Locking 1010.2.12, 1010.2.7 Panic hardware 1010.2.8

  Stairways, exit access 1019 Travel distance 1017.2, 1006.3.3,

  1006.2.1

  Sprinklers 903.2.3 Egress (see Means of Egress) Electrical Equipment 603 Aviation facilities 2006.14 Dust-producing machines 5906.5.5 Signs 603.4.1, 1207.4.8 Work space and clearance 603.4 Workstations in HPM facilities

  2703.7.2

  2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE INDEX-5

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

  INDEX

  Energy Storage System (ESS) 202, 1207 Cabinets 1207.4.10, 1207.4.8, 1207.6.3 Commissioning, decommissioning, operation and maintenance 202, 1207.2

  Fire remediation 1207.1.8 Hazard mitigation analysis 1207.1.6 Large-scale fire test 1207.1.7 Mobile ESS 202, 1207.1, 1207.1.2,

  1207.10 Residential (R-3 and R-4) 1207.11 Stationary ESS 202, 1207 Walk-in units 202, 1207.1.7, 1207.4.12, 1207.4.6, 1207.4.8, 1207.4.9, 1207.5.2, 1207.5.2.1, 1207.5.4, 1207.5.5, 1207.5.6, 1207.6.1, 1207.6.3, 1207.9.4 Energy Systems Chapter 12, 1201.1, 1201.2 Electrical energy storage systems 1201.3, 1207 Emergency and standby power systems 1203

  Permits 105.5.14, 105.6.10, 105.6.21,

  105.6.6 Portable generators 1204, 3309 Solar and photovoltaic systems 1205 Stationary fuel cell power systems 1206 Entry, Right of 104.4 Equipment, Fueled 313 Equipment Platform Defined 202

  Guards required 1015.2 Escalator Openings (see Floor Openings and Shafts) Escape Openings 1031 ESFR Sprinklers (see Automatic Sprinklers) Ethylene Gas 2503

  Generators 2506

• CFC § 12-2 Medium relevance — show source text

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

  12-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

  12 ENERGY SYSTEMS

  User notes:

  About this chapter: Chapter 12 was added to address the current energy systems found in this code, and is provided for the introduction of a wide range of systems to generate and store energy in, on and adjacent to buildings and facilities. The expansion of such energy systems is related to meeting today’s energy, environmental and economic challenges. Ensuring appropriate criteria to address the safety of such systems in building and fire codes is an important part of protecting the public at large, building occupants and emergency responders. More specifically, this chapter addresses standby and emergency power, portable generators, photovoltaic systems, fuel cell energy systems and energy storage systems.

  SECTION 1201—GENERAL

  1201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the installation, operation, maintenance, repair, retrofitting, testing, commissioning and decommissioning of energy systems used for generating or storing energy, including but not limited to energy storage systems under the exclusive control of an electric utility or lawfully designated agency. It shall not apply to equipment associated with the generation, control, transformation, transmission, or distribution of energy installations that is under the exclusive control of an electric utility or lawfully designated agency. Energy storage systems regulated by Section 1207 shall comply with this chapter, as appropriate, and NFPA 855.

  1201.2 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring and equipment used in connection with energy systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with this chapter, Section 603 and the California Electrical Code.

  1201.3 Mixed system installation. Where mixed systems are approved, the aggregate nameplate kWh energy of all energy storage systems in a fire area shall not exceed the maximum quantity specified for any of the energy systems in this chapter. Where required by the fire code official, a hazard mitigation analysis shall be provided and approved in accordance with Section 104.2.2 to evaluate any potential adverse interaction between the various energy systems and technologies.

  SECTION 1202—DEFINITIONS

  1202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

  BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY STORAGE.

  BATTERY TYPES.

  CAPACITOR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM.

  CRITICAL CIRCUIT.

  EMERGENCY POWER SYSTEM.

  ENERGY STORAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (ESS).

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, ELECTROCHEMICAL.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, MOBILE.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, WALK-IN UNIT.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CABINET.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM COMMISSIONING.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM DECOMMISSIONING.

  FUEL CELL POWER SYSTEM, STATIONARY.

  PORTABLE GENERATOR.

  STANDBY POWER SYSTEM.

  SECTION 1203—EMERGENCY AND STANDBY POWER SYSTEMS

  1203.1 General. Emergency power systems and standby power systems required by this code or the California Building Code shall comply with Sections 1203.1.1 through 1203.1.9.

  1203.1.1 Stationary generators. Stationary emergency and standby power generators required by this code shall be listed in accordance with UL 2200.

  2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-3

• CFC § 12-3 Medium relevance — show source text

  1202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3

  1203 Emergency and Standby Power Systems. . . . . . . . . 12-3 1204 Portable Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6

  1205 Solar Photovoltaic Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6 1206 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-9 1207 Electrical Energy Storage Systems (ESS) . . . . . . . .12-10

  CHAPTERS 13–19 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-1

  CHAPTER 20 AVIATION FACILITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-3

  2001 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3

  2002 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3

  2003 General Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3

  2004 Aircraft Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3

  2005 Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-4 2006 Aircraft Fueling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-4 2007 Helistops and Heliports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-9

  CHAPTER 21 DRY CLEANING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-3

  2101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-3

  2102 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-3

  2103 Classifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-3

• CFC § 505.3 Medium relevance — show source text

  ENERGY STORAGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. An electronic system that protects energy storage systems from operating outside their safe operating parameters and disconnects electrical power to the ESS or places it in a safe condition if potentially hazardous temperatures or other conditions are detected.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (ESS). One or more devices, assembled together, capable of storing energy in order to supply electrical energy at a future time.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, ELECTROCHEMICAL. An energy storage system that stores energy and produces electricity using chemical reactions. It includes, among others, battery ESS and capacitor ESS.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, MOBILE. An energy storage system capable of being moved and utilized for temporary energy storage applications, and not installed as fixed or stationary electrical equipment. The system can include integral wheels for transportation or be loaded on a trailer and unloaded for charging, storage and deployment.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, STATIONARY. An energy storage system installed as fixed or stationary electrical equipment in a permanent location.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM, WALK-IN UNIT. A prefabricated building that contains energy storage systems. It includes doors that provide walk-in access for personnel to maintain, test and service the equipment, and is typically used in outdoor and mobile ESS applications.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM CABINET. An enclosure containing an energy storage system and meeting the applicable requirements of the listing for the system. Personnel are not able to enter the enclosure other than reaching in to access components for mainte nance purposes.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM COMMISSIONING. A systematic process that provides documented confirmation that an energy storage system functions according to the intended design criteria and complies with applicable code requirements.

  ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM DECOMMISSIONING. A systematic process that provides documentation and procedures that allow an energy storage system to be safely de-energized, disassembled, readied for shipment or storage, and removed from the premises in accordance with applicable code requirements.

  [BG] EQUIPMENT PLATFORM. An unoccupied, elevated platform used exclusively for mechanical systems or industrial process equipment, including the associated elevated walkways, stairways, alternating tread devices and ladders necessary to access the platform (see Section 505.3 of the California Building Code ).

  EXCESS FLOW CONTROL. A fail-safe system or other approved means designed to shut off flow caused by a rupture in pressurized piping systems.

  EXCESS FLOW VALVE. A valve inserted into a compressed gas cylinder, portable tank or stationary tank that is designed to positively shut off the flow of gas in the event that its predetermined flow is exceeded.

  EXHAUSTED ENCLOSURE. An appliance or piece of equipment which consists of a top, a back and two sides providing a means of local exhaust for capturing gases, fumes, vapors and mists. Such enclosures include laboratory hoods, exhaust fume hoods and similar appliances and equipment used to retain and exhaust locally the gases, fumes, vapors and mists that could be released. Rooms or areas provided with general ventilation, in themselves, are not exhausted enclosures.

  EXISTING. Buildings, facilities or conditions that are already in existence, constructed or officially authorized prior to the adoption of this code.

  [BE] EXIT. That portion of a means of egress system between the exit access and the exit discharge or public way. Exit components include exterior exit doors at the level of exit discharge, interior exit stairways and ramps, exit passageways, exterior exit stairways and ramps and horizontal exits.

• CFC § 1207.3.7 Medium relevance — show source text

  1207.3.7 Retrofits. Retrofitting of an existing ESS shall comply with the following:

  1. A construction permit shall be obtained in accordance with Section 105.6.6.
  2. New batteries, battery modules, capacitors and similar ESS components shall be listed.
  3. Battery management and other monitoring systems shall be connected and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

  2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-13

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

  ENERGY SYSTEMS

  4. The overall installation shall continue to comply with UL 9540 listing requirements, where applicable.
  5. Systems that have been retrofitted shall be commissioned in accordance with Section 1207.2.1.
  6. Retrofits shall be documented in the service records log. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.3.7.1 Retrofitting lead acid and nickel cadmium. Changing out or retrofitting of lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries with other lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries in the following applications shall be considered repairs where there is no increase in system size or energy capacity greater than 10 percent of the original design.

  1. At facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities that comply with NFPA 76 and operate at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC.

  2. Battery systems used for DC power for control of substations and control or safe shutdown of generating stations under the exclusive control of the electric utility, and located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations.

  3. Batteries in uninterruptible power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778 and used for standby power applications only.

  (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.3.8 Replacements. Replacements of ESS shall be considered new ESS installations and shall comply with the provisions of Section 1207 as applicable to new ESS. The ESS being replaced shall be decommissioned in accordance with Section 1207.2.3. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.3.9 Reused and repurposed equipment. Equipment and materials shall only be reused or reinstalled as permitted in Section 104.9.1. Storage batteries previously used in other applications, such as electric vehicle propulsion, shall not be reused in applications regulated by Chapter 12 unless approved by the fire code official and unless the equipment is refurbished by a battery refurbishing company approved in accordance with UL 1974. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  1207.4 General installations requirements. Stationary and mobile ESS shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1207.4.1 through 1207.4.12.

  1207.4.1 Electrical disconnects. Where the ESS disconnecting means is not within sight of the main electrical service disconnecting means, placards or directories shall be installed at the location of the main electrical service disconnecting means indicating the location of stationary storage battery system disconnecting means in accordance with the California Electrical Code .

  Exception: Electrical disconnects for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities and operating at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC shall be permitted to have electrical disconnects signage in accordance with NFPA 76.

• CFC § 1203.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text

  
  Title 19, Division 1]|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |1203.1.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1203.1.3.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1203.1.5.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1203.2.11|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1205.2.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1205.3.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1207.11.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |1207.11.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |Table 1207.11.4|||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.

  2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-1

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

  12-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

  12 ENERGY SYSTEMS

  User notes:

  About this chapter: Chapter 12 was added to address the current energy systems found in this code, and is provided for the introduction of a wide range of systems to generate and store energy in, on and adjacent to buildings and facilities. The expansion of such energy systems is related to meeting today’s energy, environmental and economic challenges. Ensuring appropriate criteria to address the safety of such systems in building and fire codes is an important part of protecting the public at large, building occupants and emergency responders. More specifically, this chapter addresses standby and emergency power, portable generators, photovoltaic systems, fuel cell energy systems and energy storage systems.

  SECTION 1201—GENERAL

  1201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the installation, operation, maintenance, repair, retrofitting, testing, commissioning and decommissioning of energy systems used for generating or storing energy, including but not limited to energy storage systems under the exclusive control of an electric utility or lawfully designated agency. It shall not apply to equipment associated with the generation, control, transformation, transmission, or distribution of energy installations that is under the exclusive control of an electric utility or lawfully designated agency. Energy storage systems regulated by Section 1207 shall comply with this chapter, as appropriate, and NFPA 855.

  1201.2 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring and equipment used in connection with energy systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with this chapter, Section 603 and the California Electrical Code.

• CFC § 11-23 Medium relevance — show source text

  . . . . . . . . 11-23_ 1113 Existing Group R-1 and Group R-2 Occupancies [SFM] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-23 1114 Existing High-Rise Buildings [SFM]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-25 1115 Existing Group I Occupancies [SFM]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-28 1116 Existing Group L and Group H-8 Occupancies [SFM] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-28

  CHAPTER 12 ENERGY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3

  1201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3

  1202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3

  1203 Emergency and Standby Power Systems. . . . . . . . . 12-3 1204 Portable Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6

  1205 Solar Photovoltaic Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6 1206 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-9 1207 Electrical Energy Storage Systems (ESS) . . . . . . . .12-10

  CHAPTERS 13–19 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-1

  CHAPTER 20 AVIATION FACILITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20-3

  2001 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3

  2002 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3

  2003 General Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-3