CFC · California Fire Code

How must ESS be decommissioned and what rules apply to replacements?

If you remove or replace a battery energy storage system in California, you must include a written decommissioning plan with your permit paperwork that explains safe shutdown, notification to code officials, and how to remove intact or fire‑damaged equipment; any replacement is treated and permitted as a new ESS installation under the CFC (§1207.2.3 and §1207.3.8). file

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

In plain English: a written decommissioning plan is required as part of an ESS permit/commissioning package and must describe how the system will be shut down and removed (including contingencies for intact and fire-damaged systems). Any replacement of an ESS is treated as a new installation and the ESS being removed must be decommissioned per that plan. The controlling provisions are § 1207.2.3 (decommissioning plan and procedures) and § 1207.3.8 (replacements treated as new installations) .

The single most important rule: If you remove or replace an ESS you must follow a documented decommissioning plan and treat the replacement as a new installation under the CFC. § 1207.2.3 and § 1207.3.8 .

Key defined terms (first mentions bolded)

  • ESS (electrical energy storage system) — the equipment covered by Chapter 12.
  • Decommissioning plan — the written plan for safe, orderly shutdown and removal of an ESS required by the code (see § 1207.2.3). § 1207.2.3
  • Replacements — any ESS replacements are treated as new ESS installations and must comply with Section 1207 as applicable. § 1207.3.8

Requirements in detail

What must be submitted with permit documents

  • A decommissioning plan is specifically required to be included with construction documents and permit submittals for ESS installations (listed in the construction documents checklist) — see § 1207.1.5 (item requiring a decommissioning plan) and § 1207.2.3 for the plan content requirements file .

What the decommissioning plan must address

Per § 1207.2.3, the plan shall include:

  • A procedure for a safe, orderly shutdown of the ESS and associated safety systems.
  • Notification procedures to the fire/code officials prior to actual decommissioning.
  • Contingencies for removing both an intact operational ESS and an ESS that has been damaged by fire or other events (including steps to mitigate hazards or remove equipment) .
  • The plan must be available and maintained as required by the fire code official (see exceptions noted below) .

How replacements are handled

  • § 1207.3.8 states that replacements of ESS are 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.” In short: treat the new system as a new permit/installation and follow the decommissioning plan for the removed system .

Table — Decision-relevant dimensions/values

Decision dimension What the code requires Code Reference
Is a decommissioning plan required with permit/commissioning documents? Yes — a decommissioning plan must be provided as part of the construction documents/commissioning package. § 1207.1.5 and § 1207.2.3 file
What must the plan include? Safe shutdown, notification to code officials, and contingencies for removing intact and fire-damaged ESS. § 1207.2.3
If I replace an ESS, is that a simple swap or new installation? Replacement = new installation; replacement must meet Section 1207 requirements and the old ESS must be decommissioned under the plan. § 1207.3.8
Are there exceptions for small telecom lead‑acid systems? Certain telecom or utility lead‑acid/NiCd systems under exclusive control of communications utilities and operating under 50 VAC / 60 VDC have modified requirements — commissioning exceptions apply and the fire official may require / allow different decommissioning documentation. § 1207.2.1 exceptions (see § 1207.2.1 text)
Do fire‑damaged systems require special remediation? Owner/agent must mitigate hazard or remove damaged equipment; fire mitigation personnel may be required to remain onsite until hazards are abated. § 1207.1.8 (fire remediation) and § 1207.2.3 (plan must include damaged‑ESS contingencies) file

Exceptions & special cases

  • Communications‑utility and some utility control battery systems operating under 50 VAC / 60 VDC may have modified commissioning and decommissioning documentation rules; consult the exceptions in § 1207.2.1 and coordinate with the fire code official. The code allows alternate commissioning plans or that a decommissioning plan be provided and maintained where required by the fire official .
  • Reuse or repurposing of batteries (for example, EV batteries reused in stationary ESS) is restricted — reuse requires approval by the fire code official and refurbishment in accordance with UL 1974; such reuse is not a simple “replacement” permitted automatically under § 1207.3.9 .
  • If an ESS has been fire‑damaged, § 1207.1.8 imposes immediate owner responsibilities (mitigate/remove, provide fire mitigation personnel if required) and the decommissioning plan must include contingencies for damaged systems file.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming a like‑for‑like swap is always a “repair.” Per § 1207.3.8, a replacement is a new installation and must comply with Section 1207; failing to treat it as such (permits, plans, protective measures) is a common compliance error .
  • Omitting a decommissioning plan from permit submittal or leaving out required contingencies (intact vs. damaged removal) — the plan is explicitly listed in the construction documents checklist and must include shutdown, notification, and damaged‑system contingencies § 1207.1.5 and § 1207.2.3 file.
  • Reinstalling previously used batteries (e.g., EV batteries) without fire‑official approval or proper refurbishment per UL 1974 — the code restricts reuse unless approved under § 1207.3.9 .
  • Failing to notify the fire/code official before decommissioning — the decommissioning plan must include notification procedures per § 1207.2.3 .

Worked example — rooftop residential replacement (concrete scenario)

Scenario: A homeowner has an existing rooftop lithium‑ion ESS with 20 kWh nameplate and intends to replace it with a new 25 kWh lithium‑ion ESS.

Steps required under the CFC:

  1. Treat the project as a new ESS installation because it is a replacement — the new system must comply with Section 1207 requirements (per § 1207.3.8) .
  2. Include a decommissioning plan in the construction documents / permit submittal (construction checklist requires a decommissioning plan) — the plan must describe safe shutdown, notification to the fire/code official prior to removal, and contingencies for intact vs. fire‑damaged removal § 1207.1.5 and § 1207.2.3 file.
  3. Submit the permit application and associated commissioning plan (commissioning required for new installations) and include the decommissioning plan for the removed 20 kWh unit § 1207.2.1 and § 1207.2.3 file.
  4. Follow the decommissioning plan at the time of removal: perform an orderly shutdown, notify the code official as specified, and if the old ESS shows fire damage, follow the damaged‑ESS contingency (remove equipment to a safe location and provide mitigation personnel if required) § 1207.2.3 and § 1207.1.8 file.
  5. Because the replacement is larger (20 → 25 kWh), the new installation may change how other Section 1207 requirements apply (clearances, fire protection, detection, thermal management, etc.), so design and install the new 25 kWh system per Section 1207 and manufacturer listing; obtain final approval after commissioning and submission of commissioning report § 1207.3.8, § 1207.2.1 file.

Related provisions (CFC sections)

  • § 1207.2.3 — Decommissioning plan and procedures referenced in permit submission list (content and contingencies)
  • § 1207.3.8 — Replacements considered new installations and decommissioning requirements (replacement = new)
  • § 1207.1.5 — Construction documents checklist — requires decommissioning plan in permit submittals
  • § 1207.2.1 — Commissioning requirements (commissioning plan and commissioning report) — commissioning ties into decommissioning and replacement work
  • § 1207.1.8 — Fire remediation / mitigation duties when ESS are fire‑damaged (interacts with decommissioning for damaged systems)
  • § 1207.3.9 — Reused and repurposed equipment restrictions (limits reuse of previously used batteries without approval)

Code references

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

  • CFC § 1207.3.7 High 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.

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    1. The overall installation shall continue to comply with UL 9540 listing requirements, where applicable.
    2. Systems that have been retrofitted shall be commissioned in accordance with Section 1207.2.1.
    3. 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 § 1207.3.8 High relevance — show source text

    (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.

    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 .

  • CFC § 12-11 High relevance — show source text

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    1207.1.8 Fire remediation. Where a fire or other event has damaged the ESS and ignition or re-ignition of the ESS is possible, the system owner, agent or lessee shall take the following actions, at their expense, to mitigate the hazard or remove damaged equipment from the premises to a safe location.

    1207.1.8.1 Fire mitigation personnel. Where, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is essential for public safety that trained personnel be on-site to respond to possible ignition or re-ignition of a damaged ESS, the system owner, agent or lessee shall dispatch within 15 minutes one or more fire mitigation personnel to the premise, as required and approved, at their expense. These personnel shall remain on duty continuously after the fire department leaves the premise until the damaged energy storage equipment is removed from the premises, or earlier if the fire code official indicates the public safety hazard has been abated. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.1.8.2 Duties. On-duty fire mitigation personnel shall have the following responsibilities:

    1. Keep a diligent watch for fires, obstructions to means of egress and other hazards.

    2. Immediately contact the fire department if their assistance is needed to mitigate any hazards or extinguish fires.

    3. Take prompt measures for remediation of hazards in accordance with the decommissioning plan per Section 1207.2.3.

    4. Take prompt measures to assist in the evacuation of the public from the structures. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.2 Commissioning, decommissioning, operation and maintenance. Commissioning, decommissioning, operation and maintenance shall be conducted in accordance with this section.

    1207.2.1 Commissioning. Commissioning of newly installed ESS and existing ESS that have been retrofitted, replaced or previously decommissioned and are returning to service shall be conducted prior to the ESS being placed in service in accordance with a commissioning plan that has been approved prior to initiating commissioning. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. A narrative description of the activities that will be accomplished during each phase of commissioning, including the personnel intended to accomplish each of the activities.
    2. A listing of the specific ESS and associated components, controls and safety-related devices to be tested, a description of the tests to be performed and the functions to be tested.
    3. Conditions under which all testing will be performed, which are representative of the conditions during normal operation of the system.
    4. Documentation of the owner’s project requirements and the basis of design necessary to understand the installation and operation of the ESS.
    5. Verification that required equipment and systems are installed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.
    6. Integrated testing for all fire and safety systems.
    7. Testing for any required thermal management, ventilation or exhaust systems associated with the ESS installation.
    8. Preparation and delivery of operation and maintenance documentation.
    9. Training of facility operating and maintenance staff.
    10. Identification and documentation of the requirements for maintaining system performance to meet the original design intent during the operation phase.
    11. Identification and documentation of personnel who are qualified to service, maintain and decommission the ESS, and respond to incidents involving the ESS, including documentation that such service has been contracted for./p>
  • CFC § 1207.2.1. High relevance — show source text

    A decommissioning plan for removing the ESS from service, and from the facility in which it is located. The plan shall include details on providing a safe, orderly shutdown of energy storage and safety systems with notification to the code officials prior to the actual decommissioning of the system. The decommissioning plan shall include contingencies for removing an intact operational ESS from service, and for removing an ESS from service that has been damaged by a fire or other event.

    Exceptions:

    1. Commissioning 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 VAC and 60 VDC. A decommissioning plan shall be provided and maintained where required by the fire code official.
    2. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems less than 50 VAC, 60 VDC that are in telecommunications facilities for installations of communications equipment under the exclusive control of communications utilities, and are located outdoors or in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations that are in compliance with NFPA 76, shall be permitted to have a commissioning plan in compliance with recognized industry practices in lieu of complying with Section 1207.2.1.
    3. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems that are used for DC power for control of substations and control or safe shutdown of generating stations under the exclusive control of the electric utilities, and are located in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations, shall be permitted to have a commissioning plan in compliance with applicable governmental laws and regulations in lieu of developing a commissioning plan in accordance with Section 1207.2.1. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.2.1.1 Initial acceptance testing. During the commissioning process an ESS shall be evaluated for proper operation in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the commissioning plan prior to final approval.

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    1207.2.1.2 Commissioning report. A report describing the results of the system commissioning, including the results of the initial acceptance testing required in Section 1207.2.1.1, shall be provided to the fire code official prior to final inspection and approval and maintained at an approved on-site location. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.2.2 Operation and maintenance. An operation and maintenance manual shall be provided to both the ESS owner or their authorized agent and the ESS operator before the ESS is put into operation and shall include the following:

    1. Manufacturer’s operation manuals and maintenance manuals for the entire ESS, or for each component of the system requiring maintenance, that clearly identify the required routine maintenance actions.
    2. Name, address and phone number of a service agency that has been contracted to service the ESS and its associated safety systems.
    3. Maintenance and calibration information, including wiring diagrams, control drawings, schematics, system programming instructions and control sequence descriptions, for all energy storage control systems.
    4. Desired or field-determined control set points that are permanently recorded on control drawings at control devices or, for digital control systems, in system programming instructions.
    5. A schedule for inspecting and recalibrating all ESS controls.
  • CFC § 1207.4.2 High 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

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    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 § 1207.8.1. High relevance — show source text

    See Section 1207.8.1.
    b. See Section 1207.8.2.
    c. Where approved by the fire code official, fire suppression systems are permitted to be omitted.
    d. In outdoor walk-in units, spacing is not required between ESS units and the walls of the enclosure.|a. See Section 1207.8.1.
    b. See Section 1207.8.2.
    c. Where approved by the fire code official, fire suppression systems are permitted to be omitted.
    d. In outdoor walk-in units, spacing is not required between ESS units and the walls of the enclosure.|a. See Section 1207.8.1.
    b. See Section 1207.8.2.
    c. Where approved by the fire code official, fire suppression systems are permitted to be omitted.
    d. In outdoor walk-in units, spacing is not required between ESS units and the walls of the enclosure.|a. See Section 1207.8.1.
    b. See Section 1207.8.2.
    c. Where approved by the fire code official, fire suppression systems are permitted to be omitted.
    d. In outdoor walk-in units, spacing is not required between ESS units and the walls of the enclosure.|

    1207.8.1 Remote outdoor installations. For the purpose of Table 1207.8, remote outdoor installations include ESS located more than 100 feet (30 480 mm) from buildings, lot lines, public ways, stored combustible materials, hazardous materials, high-piled stock and other exposure hazards. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.8.2 Installations near exposures. For the purpose of Table 1207.8, installations near exposures include all outdoor ESS installations that do not comply with Section 1207.8.1 remote outdoor location requirements. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.8.3 Clearance to exposures. ESS located outdoors shall be separated by a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from the following exposures:

    1. Lot lines.

    2. Public ways.

    3. Buildings.

    4. Stored combustible materials.

    5. Hazardous materials.

    6. High-piled stock.

    7. Other exposure hazards.

    Exceptions: (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1. Clearances are permitted to be reduced to 3 feet (914 mm) where a 1-hour free-standing fire barrier suitable for exterior use and extending 5 feet (1524 mm) above and 5 feet (1524 mm) beyond the physical boundary of the ESS installation is provided to protect the exposure.

    2. Clearances to buildings are permitted to be reduced to 3 feet (914 mm) where noncombustible exterior walls with no openings or combustible overhangs are provided on the wall adjacent to the ESS and the fire-resistance rating of the exterior wall is a minimum of 2 hours.

    3. Clearances to buildings are permitted to be reduced to 3 feet (914 mm) where a weatherproof enclosure constructed of noncombustible materials is provided over the ESS, and it has been demonstrated that a fire within the enclosure will not ignite combustible materials outside the enclosure based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7.

  • CFC § 1207.7.2 High relevance — show source text

    1207.7.2 Nondedicated-use buildings. For the purpose of Table 1207.7, nondedicated-use buildings include all buildings that contain ESS and do not comply with Section 1207.7.1 dedicated-use building requirements. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.7.3 Dwelling units and sleeping units. ESS shall not be installed in sleeping units or in habitable spaces of dwelling units. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.7.4 Fire-resistance-rated separations. Rooms and areas containing ESS shall include fire-resistance-rated separations as follows:

    1. In dedicated-use buildings, rooms and areas containing ESS shall be separated from areas in which administrative and support personnel are located.
    2. In nondedicated-use buildings, rooms and areas containing ESS shall be separated from other areas in the building.

    Separation shall be provided by 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code and 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, as appropriate. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.8 Outdoor installations. Outdoor installations shall be in accordance with Sections 1207.8.1 through 1207.8.3. Exterior wall installations for individual ESS units not exceeding 20 kWh shall be in accordance with Section 1207.8.4. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

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    TABLE 1207.8—OUTDOOR ESS INSTALLATIONSa Col2 Col3 Col4
    COMPLIANCE REQUIRED COMPLIANCE REQUIRED REMOTE INSTALLATIONSa INSTALLATIONS NEAR EXPOSURESb
    Feature Section Section Section
    All ESS installations 1207.4 Yes Yes
    Clearance to exposures 1207.8.3 Yes Yes
    Fire suppression systems 1207.5.5 Yesc Yes
    Maximum allowable quantities 1207.5.2 No Yes
    Maximum enclosure size 1207.5.6 Yes Yes
    Means of egress separation 1207.5.8 Yes Yes
    Size and separation 1207.5.1 No Yesd
    Smoke and automatic fire detection 1207.5.4 Yes Yes
    Technology-specific protection 1207.6 Yes Yes
    Vegetation control 1207.5.7 Yes Yes
    a. See Section 1207.8.1.
    b. See Section 1207.8.2.
    c. Where approved by the fire code official, fire suppression systems are permitted to be omitted.
    d. In outdoor walk-in units, spacing is not required between ESS units and the walls of the enclosure.    		 a. See Section 1207.8.1.
    b. See Section 1207.8.2.
    c. Where approved by the fire code official, fire suppression systems are permitted to be omitted.
    d. In outdoor walk-in units, spacing is not required between ESS units and the walls of the enclosure.    		 a.
  • CFC § 1207.4.8 High relevance — show source text

    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

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

    1207.4.10 Occupied work centers. Electrochemical ESS located in rooms or areas occupied by personnel not directly involved with maintenance, service and testing of the systems shall comply with the following:

    1. Electrochemical ESS located in occupied work centers shall be housed in locked noncombustible cabinets or other enclosures to prevent access by unauthorized personnel.
    2. Where electrochemical ESS are contained in cabinets in occupied work centers, the cabinets shall be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the equipment that they support.
    3. Cabinets shall include signage complying with Section 1207.4.8. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.4.11 Open rack installations. Where electrochemical ESS are installed in a separate equipment room and only authorized personnel have access to the room, they shall be permitted to be installed on an open rack for ease of maintenance. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.4.12 Walk-in units. Walk-in units shall be entered only for inspection, maintenance and repair of ESS units and ancillary equipment, and shall not be occupied for other purposes.

    1207.5 Electrochemical ESS protection. The protection of electrochemical ESS shall be in accordance with Sections 1207.5.1 through 1207.5.8 where required by Sections 1207.7 through 1207.10. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  • CFC § 12-9 High 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 § 3206.10. High relevance — show source text

    For aisles, see Section 3206.10.
    c. Piles shall be separated by aisles complying with Section 3206.10.
    d. For storage in excess of the height indicated, special fire protection shall be provided in accordance with Note f where required by the fire code official.
    See Chapters 51 and 57 for special limitations for aerosols and flammable and combustible liquids, respectively.
    e. For storage exceeding 30 feet in height, Option 1 shall be used.
    f.
    Special fire protection provisions including, but not limited to, fire protection of exposed steel columns; increased sprinkler density; additional in-rack
    sprinklers, without associated reductions in ceiling sprinkler density; or fire department hose connections shall be provided where required by the fire code
    official.
    g. Not required where an automatic fire-extinguishing system is designed and installed to protect the high-piled storage area in accordance with Sections
    3207 and 3208.
    h. Not required where storage areas_with an exit access travel distance of 250 feet (76 200 mm) or less are protected by either early suppression fast response
    (ESFR) sprinkler systems or control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50 (meters-seconds)1/2 or less that are listed to control
    a fire in the stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers, installed in accordance with     Section 903.3.1.1._
    i.
    Not required in frozen food warehouses used solely for storage of Class I and II commodities where protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Where automatic sprinklers are required for reasons other than those in Chapter 32, the portion of the sprinkler system protecting the high-piled storage
    area shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 3207 and 3208.
    b. For aisles, see Section 3206.10.
    c. Piles shall be separated by aisles complying with Section 3206.10.
    d. For storage in excess of the height indicated, special fire protection shall be provided in accordance with Note f where required by the fire code official.
    See Chapters 51 and 57 for special limitations for aerosols and flammable and combustible liquids, respectively.
    e. For storage exceeding 30 feet in height, Option 1 shall be used.
    f.
    Special fire protection provisions including, but not limited to, fire protection of exposed steel columns; increased sprinkler density; additional in-rack
    sprinklers, without associated reductions in ceiling sprinkler density; or fire department hose connections shall be provided where required by the fire code
    official.
    g. Not required where an automatic fire-extinguishing system is designed and installed to protect the high-piled storage area in accordance with Sections
    3207 and 3208.
    h.

  • CFC § 1207.1.6.1 High relevance — show source text

    1207.1.6.1 Fault condition. The hazard mitigation analysis shall evaluate the consequences of the following failure modes. Only single failure modes shall be considered.

    1. A thermal runaway condition in a single electrochemical ESS unit.

    2. A mechanical failure of a nonelectrochemical ESS unit.

    3. Failure of any battery (energy) management system or fire protection system within the ESS equipment that is not covered by the product listing failure mode effects analysis (FMEA).

    4. Failure of any required protection system external to the ESS, including but not limited to ventilation (HVAC), exhaust ventilation, smoke detection, fire detection, gas detection or fire suppression system. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.1.6.2 Analysis approval. The fire code official is authorized to approve the hazardous mitigation analysis provided that the consequences of the hazard mitigation analysis demonstrate:

    1. Fires will be contained within unoccupied ESS rooms or areas for the minimum duration of the fire-resistance-rated separations identified in Section 1207.7.4.
    2. Fires involving the ESS will allow occupants or the general public to evacuate to a safe location. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.1.6.3 Additional protection measures. Construction, equipment and systems that are required for the ESS to comply with the hazardous mitigation analysis, including but not limited to those specifically described in Section 1207, shall be installed, maintained and tested in accordance with nationally recognized standards and specified design parameters.

    1207.1.7 Large-scale fire test. Where required elsewhere in Section 1207, large-scale fire testing shall be conducted on a representative ESS in accordance with UL 9540A. The testing shall be conducted or witnessed and reported by an approved testing laboratory and show that a fire involving one ESS will not propagate to an adjacent ESS, and where installed within buildings, enclosed areas and walk-in units will be contained within the room, enclosed area or walk-in unit for the duration of the test. The test report shall be provided to the fire code official for review and approval in accordance with Section 104.2.2. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-11

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    1207.1.8 Fire remediation. Where a fire or other event has damaged the ESS and ignition or re-ignition of the ESS is possible, the system owner, agent or lessee shall take the following actions, at their expense, to mitigate the hazard or remove damaged equipment from the premises to a safe location.

    1207.1.8.1 Fire mitigation personnel. Where, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is essential for public safety that trained personnel be on-site to respond to possible ignition or re-ignition of a damaged ESS, the system owner, agent or lessee shall dispatch within 15 minutes one or more fire mitigation personnel to the premise, as required and approved, at their expense. These personnel shall remain on duty continuously after the fire department leaves the premise until the damaged energy storage equipment is removed from the premises, or earlier if the fire code official indicates the public safety hazard has been abated. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  • CFC § 1207.2 High relevance — show source text

    1207.2 Commissioning, decommissioning, operation and maintenance. Commissioning, decommissioning, operation and maintenance shall be conducted in accordance with this section.

    1207.2.1 Commissioning. Commissioning of newly installed ESS and existing ESS that have been retrofitted, replaced or previously decommissioned and are returning to service shall be conducted prior to the ESS being placed in service in accordance with a commissioning plan that has been approved prior to initiating commissioning. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. A narrative description of the activities that will be accomplished during each phase of commissioning, including the personnel intended to accomplish each of the activities.
    2. A listing of the specific ESS and associated components, controls and safety-related devices to be tested, a description of the tests to be performed and the functions to be tested.
    3. Conditions under which all testing will be performed, which are representative of the conditions during normal operation of the system.
    4. Documentation of the owner’s project requirements and the basis of design necessary to understand the installation and operation of the ESS.
    5. Verification that required equipment and systems are installed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.
    6. Integrated testing for all fire and safety systems.
    7. Testing for any required thermal management, ventilation or exhaust systems associated with the ESS installation.
    8. Preparation and delivery of operation and maintenance documentation.
    9. Training of facility operating and maintenance staff.
    10. Identification and documentation of the requirements for maintaining system performance to meet the original design intent during the operation phase.
    11. Identification and documentation of personnel who are qualified to service, maintain and decommission the ESS, and respond to incidents involving the ESS, including documentation that such service has been contracted for./p>
    12. A decommissioning plan for removing the ESS from service, and from the facility in which it is located. The plan shall include details on providing a safe, orderly shutdown of energy storage and safety systems with notification to the code officials prior to the actual decommissioning of the system. The decommissioning plan shall include contingencies for removing an intact operational ESS from service, and for removing an ESS from service that has been damaged by a fire or other event.

    Exceptions:

    1. Commissioning 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 VAC and 60 VDC. A decommissioning plan shall be provided and maintained where required by the fire code official.
    2. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems less than 50 VAC, 60 VDC that are in telecommunications facilities for installations of communications equipment under the exclusive control of communications utilities, and are located outdoors or in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations that are in compliance with NFPA 76, shall be permitted to have a commissioning plan in compliance with recognized industry practices in lieu of complying with Section 1207.2.1.
    3. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems that are used for DC power for control of substations and control or safe shutdown of generating stations under the exclusive control of the electric utilities, and are located in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations, shall be permitted to have a commissioning plan in compliance with applicable governmental laws and regulations in lieu of developing a commissioning plan in accordance with Section 1207.2.1. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

Frequently asked questions

Who must prepare the decommissioning plan?

The project applicant/owner (or their design/installation team) must provide a written decommissioning plan as part of the construction/commissioning documents; it must be available per the permit requirements § 1207.1.5 and § 1207.2.3 file.

Does every replacement require a new permit?

Yes — § 1207.3.8 treats replacements as new installations, so the replacement must comply with Section 1207 (permits, designs, commissioning as applicable) and the old ESS must be decommissioned per § 1207.2.3 file.

What if the ESS was damaged by fire?

The decommissioning plan must include contingencies for fire‑damaged systems; owners must mitigate hazards or remove damaged equipment and may be required to provide on‑site fire mitigation personnel under § 1207.1.8 and § 1207.2.3 file.

Can I reuse a battery from an EV in a building ESS?

Not without approval. § 1207.3.9 restricts reuse or repurposing of previously used batteries in Chapter 12 applications unless approved by the fire code official and refurbished in accordance with UL 1974 .

Are there any small‑system exceptions?

Some lead‑acid and nickel‑cadmium systems under exclusive control of communications utilities and operating under 50 VAC / 60 VDC have alternate commissioning/decommissioning documentation options per exceptions in § 1207.2.1; check with the fire code official .

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California Fire Code