CFC · California Fire Code

What are the ventilation, thermal management, deflagration venting and detection requirements?

If you install an energy storage system, the permit drawings must show ventilation, thermal‑management and deflagration‑venting plans. The code requires either ventilation sized to keep flammable gas below **25% of LFL** or a minimum of **1 cfm per ft²**, a gas‑detection system that activates ventilation at **25% LFL**, **2 hours** of standby power, NFPA‑compliant deflagration venting (vents sized and located per the CFC/NFPA), and ESS signage and secured rooms.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

The California Fire Code requires that plans for Electrical Energy Storage Systems (ESS) include details for ventilation, thermal management, gas detection, and deflagration venting; those design features must meet the specific performance and installation rules in the code and the NFPA standards it references. See the plan-content requirement § 1207.1.5 for what must be submitted with permit documents.

The most important rule: designs for ventilation, detection and deflagration venting must be shown on the permit submittal and, where the code gives performance thresholds (for example 25% of the lower flammable limit (LFL) and 1 cfm/ft²) systems must be sized and controlled to meet those values.

(Defined terms in this article are shown in bold the first time they appear.)

Requirements in detail

Which sections you must read and include on plans

  • The permit/plan content requirement — § 1207.1.5 — tells you to include “Details on fire suppression, smoke or fire detection, thermal management, ventilation, exhaust and deflagration venting systems” in the construction documents.
  • The specific ventilation/exhaust and detection provisions for ESS are given in § 1207.6.1 and its subsections (ventilation based on LFL or a minimum exhaust rate, gas detection requirements and standby power).
  • Deflagration venting and explosion-control design are covered in the explosion control chapter — notably § 911.3 (prevention systems) and § 911.4 (deflagration venting) and the vent design requirements in that section.
  • Signage for ESS rooms and cabinets is required by § 1207.4.8.

Ventilation and thermal management — two acceptable design approaches

The code gives two alternative bases for exhaust design for indoor ESS:

  1. Ventilation sized to limit flammable-gas concentration:

    • Design the exhaust to keep the maximum concentration of flammable gas to no more than 25% of the LFL during the worst-case event (for example, simultaneous maximum-rate charging). § 1207.6.1.1.

  2. Ventilation sized to a minimum continuous or demand rate:

    • Provide mechanical exhaust at not less than 1 ft³/min per ft² of floor area (≈ 5.1 L/s per m²) of the room, area or walk-in unit. The ventilation may be continuous or activated by gas detection. § 1207.6.1.2.

Thermal management/thermal runaway protections:

  • The code requires documented thermal-management/thermal-runaway protections to be described in the construction documents; thermal runaway protection can be part of the battery/energy management system where permitted by testing/listing. See plan content § 1207.1.5 and thermal-runaway discussion in the ESS protection sections.

Gas detection, controls and power continuity

Key detection and control rules (ESS rooms with mechanical exhaust based on exhaust rate):

  • An approved continuous gas detection system is required where ventilation is activated by detection; it must comply with Section 916 and the listed requirements in § 1207.6.1.2.4. The detector must be set to activate ventilation when flammable gas exceeds 25% of the LFL, and keep ventilation running until concentration drops below 25% of the LFL.
  • The gas-detection system and the mechanical exhaust it controls must have a minimum of 2 hours of standby power. Failure of the gas detection system must annunciate a trouble signal to an approved central station or an approved constantly attended on-site location. § 1207.6.1.2.3–.4.

Deflagration venting / mitigation requirements

Where explosion (deflagration) venting is required:

  • Deflagration venting must be of an approved type and installed in accordance with the code and NFPA 68 — see § 911.4.
  • Vents must be designed to prevent unacceptable structural damage and to avoid producing dangerous projectiles on vent opening. The maximum internal pressure to be relieved by vents is stated as 20 pounds per square foot (≈ 958 Pa) (vents shall relieve at a maximum internal pressure of 20 psf unless otherwise designed) and vent load design must comply with the California Building Code. § 911 (venting design items).
  • Discharge location rules: vents that discharge from exterior walls/roofs must discharge directly to the exterior where an unoccupied space of at least 50 ft (15,240 mm) width exists between the building and lot line; or, for vents remaining attached, the vent opening must be at least 10 ft vertically from windows/exits and 20 ft horizontally from exits, openings in adjacent buildings or the lot line. § 911 (items 6–7).
  • If exterior wall/roof area is insufficient, specially designed shafts that discharge to the exterior are permitted (exception in venting text). § 911 (venting exception).

Signage and security

  • ESS rooms, ESS cabinets and walk-in units located outdoors/rooftops/parking garages must have approved signs on or adjacent to all entry doors and on enclosures; required content includes the system type (e.g., “ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM”), the electrochemical technology, “ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS,” warnings such as “APPLY NO WATER” for water-reactive designs, and current contact information for personnel (including fire mitigation contacts). § 1207.4.8.
  • Rooms/areas/walk-in units must be secured against unauthorized entry; security measures must not block required airflow to or exhaust from the ESS. § 1207.4.9.

Decision-relevant values (quick table)

Parameter / question Required value or instruction Code reference
Gas concentration threshold to activate ventilation 25% of the LFL § 1207.6.1.1 / § 1207.6.1.2.4
Minimum mechanical exhaust rate (alternative method) 1 ft³/min per ft² (≈ 5.1 L/s·m⁻²) § 1207.6.1.2 cite
Standby power required for exhaust/detection Minimum 2 hours § 1207.6.1.2.1 / § 1207.6.1.2.4(3)
Deflagration vent maximum relief pressure 20 psf (≈ 958 Pa) relief design limit referenced § 911 (vent design items)
Vent discharge clearances — exterior discharge Unoccupied space ≥ 50 ft between building and lot line, or other listed clearances § 911 (items 6–7)
Required permit plan content includes Ventilation, thermal management, exhaust, deflagration venting details § 1207.1.5
Required signage content (examples) System ID, technology, “ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS,” “APPLY NO WATER” (if applicable), contact info § 1207.4.8

Exceptions & special cases

  • Existing ESS may keep the signage that was required at the time of their installation (signage exception in § 1207.4.8).
  • Where exterior wall/roof area is insufficient for required exterior venting, the code allows special shafts vented to the exterior as an alternative (see deflagration venting exception in § 911).
  • The code frequently defers detailed engineering design to the applicable NFPA standard (NFPA 68 for deflagration venting; NFPA 69 for explosion prevention systems); the vent sizing and rupture panel selection are to be done per those standards. § 911.3–911.4.

Note: The exact subsection § 1207.4.6 text was not found among the provided files. The code’s ventilation/thermal-management performance requirements for ESS are presented in § 1207.6.1 and related ESS protection sections; the permit-plan requirement that requires these details is § 1207.1.5. If you need the literal text of § 1207.4.6 as published in your jurisdictional edition, provide that file or I can look for it.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming “activate at 25% LFL” is optional — it is a required activation threshold where ventilation is detection-driven; design and setpoints must reflect 25% of LFL. § 1207.6.1.2.4.
  • Forgetting 2 hours of standby power for exhaust and gas detection tied to safety ventilation. § 1207.6.1.2.1 / .4(3).
  • Blocking or reducing required airflow with security barriers, landscaping or enclosures — security measures are permitted but must not inhibit required airflow or exhaust. § 1207.4.9.
  • Submitting plans without showing vent discharge locations and clearances (venting design, discharge direction and clearances are required on plans per § 1207.1.5 and venting chapter § 911).

Worked example — small ESS room, numeric sizing and controls

Scenario: An ESS room is 20 ft × 20 ft (400 ft²) containing electrochemical batteries. The design team will use the detection-activated exhaust approach.

Step 1 — Choose ventilation method:

  • Option chosen: mechanical exhaust at 1 ft³/min per ft² (code alternative). Required flow = 400 ft³/min (cfm). § 1207.6.1.2.

Step 2 — Gas detection setpoint and control:

  • Install a continuous gas detection system that will start the exhaust fan when flammable gas concentration exceeds 25% of LFL, and keep it running until levels fall below 25% of LFL. § 1207.6.1.2.4.

Step 3 — Power continuity:

  • Provide 2 hours of standby power for the exhaust fan and detector (battery backup/standby generator or other approved standby power source). § 1207.6.1.2.1 / .4(3).

Step 4 — Plan submittal:

  • On the permit drawings include ventilation capacity (400 cfm), detector type and setpoint, wiring to controls, standby power details, and any deflagration venting strategy or statement that NFPA 68/69 compliance will be used. § 1207.1.5 requires these details on construction documents.

Step 5 — Deflagration venting check:

  • If analysis shows a deflagration hazard requiring venting, the venting design must follow NFPA 68 and be sized to relieve to no more than 20 psf internal pressure (and meet discharge clearance rules). Document the vent location and discharge clearances on the plans. § 911.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 1207.1.5 — Construction documents: require details on ventilation, thermal management and deflagration venting.
  • § 1207.6.1 — Exhaust ventilation design and gas-detection activation (25% LFL and/or 1 cfm/ft²) and standby power.
  • § 1207.4.8 — ESS signage requirements (content and contact info).
  • § 1207.4.9 — Security of ESS rooms/areas; must not inhibit required airflow.
  • § 911.3 — Explosion prevention systems (NFPA 69 referenced).
  • § 911.4 — Deflagration venting (NFPA 68 referenced) and vent design requirements (vent pressures, discharge clearances).
  • § 1207.1.6 — Hazard mitigation analysis (FMEA) when unusual technologies or interactions are present.

Code references

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

  • CFC § 11.5 High relevance — show source text

    5-foot
    level of storage
    3.
    Locate in
    longitudinal flue
    space,
    staggered
    vertical
    4.
    Shields required
    where multiple-
    level|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8 feet
    3 inches
    horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    One line of
    sprinklers at the
    6-foot level and
    the 11.5-foot
    level of storage
    3.
    Locate in
    longitudinal flue
    space,
    staggered
    vertical
    4.
    Shields required
    where multiple-
    level| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(8)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
    CLASS I LIQUID STORAGE IN METAL CONTAINERS OF 1-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH UNCARTONED
    OR CASE-CUT SHELF DISPLAY UP TO 6.5 FEET, AND PALLETIZED STORAGE ABOVE IN A DOUBLE-ROW RACK ARRAYa|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Maximum
    spacing|Maximum
    spacing|100 ft2/head|100 ft2/head| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(8)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
    CLASS I LIQUID STORAGE IN METAL CONTAINERS OF 1-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH UNCARTONED
    OR CASE-CUT SHELF DISPLAY UP TO 6.5 FEET, AND PALLETIZED STORAGE ABOVE IN A DOUBLE-ROW RACK ARRAYa|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Area
    (square feet)|Ordinary
    temperature|Not
    Applicable|Not
    Applicable| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(8)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
    CLASS I LIQUID STORAGE IN METAL CONTAINERS OF 1-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH UNCARTONED
    OR CASE-CUT SHELF DISPLAY UP TO 6.5 FEET, AND PALLETIZED STORAGE ABOVE IN A DOUBLE-ROW RACK ARRAYa|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Area
    (square feet)|High
    temperature|2,000b|2,000b| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(8)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
    CLASS I LIQUID STORAGE IN METAL CONTAINERS OF 1-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH UNCARTONED
    OR CASE-CUT SHELF DISPLAY UP TO 6.5 FEET, AND PALLETIZED STORAGE ABOVE IN A DOUBLE-ROW RACK ARRAYa|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Density
    (gpm/ft2)|Density
    (gpm/ft2)|0.60|0.60| |**TABLE 5704.3.6.

  • CFC § 1207.2.1. High relevance — show source text

    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.

    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.

  • CFC § 12-6 High relevance — show source text

    1203 Temperature Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6

    1204 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-7

    1205 Yards or Courts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-7

    1206 Sound Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8

    1207 Enhanced Classroom Acoustics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8

    1208 Interior Space Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8

    1209 Access to Unoccupied Spaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-9

    1210 Toilet and Bathroom Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-9

    1211 UV Germicidal Irradiation Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-10

    1212 [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Garage Door Springs . . . . . . . . . . . .12-10

    1213 [HCD 1] Pollutant Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1214 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1215 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1216 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1217 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1218 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1219 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1220 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

    1221 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

  • 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 § 9-68 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Where sufficient exterior wall and roof venting cannot be provided because of inadequate exterior wall or roof area, deflagration venting shall be allowed by specially designed shafts vented to the exterior of the building. 3. Deflagration venting shall be designed to prevent unacceptable structural damage. Where relieving a deflagration, vent closures shall not produce projectiles of sufficient velocity and mass to cause life threatening injuries to the occupants or other persons on the property or adjacent public ways.

    9-68 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    1. The aggregate clear area of vents and venting devices shall be governed by the pressure resistance of the construction assemblies specified in Item 1 of this section and the maximum internal pressure allowed by Item 5 of this section.
    2. Vents shall be designed to withstand loads in accordance with the California Building Code . Vents shall consist of any one or any combination of the following to relieve at a maximum internal pressure of 20 pounds per square foot (958 Pa), but not less than the loads required by the California Building Code : 5.1. Exterior walls designed to release outward.

    5.2. Hatch covers.

    5.3. Outward swinging doors. 5.4. Roofs designed to uplift. 5.5. Venting devices listed for the purpose. 6. Vents designed to release from the exterior walls or roofs of the building when venting a deflagration shall discharge directly to the exterior of the building where an unoccupied space not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) in width is provided between the exterior walls of the building and the lot line.

    Exception: Vents complying with Item 7 of this section. 7. Vents designed to remain attached to the building when venting a deflagration shall be so located that the discharge opening shall be not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) vertically from window openings and exits in the building and 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally from exits in the building, from window openings and exits in adjacent buildings on the same lot and from the lot line.

    1. Discharge from vents shall not be into the interior of the building.

    911.3 Explosion prevention systems. Explosion prevention systems shall be of an approved type and installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 69.

    911.4 Deflagration venting. Deflagration venting shall be of an approved type and installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 68.

    911.5 Barricades. Barricades shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 495.

    SECTION 912—FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS

    912.1 Installation. Fire department connections shall be installed in accordance with the NFPA standard applicable to the system design and shall comply with Sections 912.2 through 912.7.

    912.2 Location. With respect to hydrants, driveways, buildings and landscaping, fire department connections shall be so located that fire apparatus and hose connected to supply the system will not obstruct access to the buildings for other fire apparatus. The location of fire department connections shall be approved by the fire code official.

    912.2.1 Visible location. Fire department connections shall be located on the street side of buildings or facing approved fire apparatus access roads, fully visible and recognizable from the street, fire apparatus access road or nearest point of fire department vehicle access or as otherwise approved by the fire code official.

  • CFC § 11B-141 High relevance — show source text

    11B-1004 Exercise Machines and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-141

    11B-1005 Fishing Piers and Platforms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-141

    11B-1006 Golf Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-142

    11B-1007 Miniature Golf Facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-142

    11B-1008 Play Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-143

    11B-1009 Swimming Pools, Wading Pools and Spas . . . . . . 11B-145

    11B-1010 Shooting Facilities with Firing Positions . . . . . . . . 11B-151

    CHAPTER 12 INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

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

    1202 Ventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3

    1203 Temperature Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-6

    1204 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-7

    1205 Yards or Courts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-7

    1206 Sound Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8

    1207 Enhanced Classroom Acoustics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8

    1208 Interior Space Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-8

    1209 Access to Unoccupied Spaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-9

    1210 Toilet and Bathroom Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-9

    1211 UV Germicidal Irradiation Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-10

    1212 [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Garage Door Springs . . . . . . . . . . . .12-10

    1213 [HCD 1] Pollutant Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-11

  • CFC § 12-3 High 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 § 503.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    ** Heat pumps equipped with internal electric resistance heaters shall have controls that prevent supplemental heater operation where the heating load is capable of being met by the heat pump alone during both steady-state operation and setback recovery. Supplemental heater operation shall be permitted during outdoor coil defrost cycles. Exception: Heat pumps whose minimum efficiency is regulated by U.S. National Appliance Energy Conservation Act (NAECA) and whose ratings are in accordance with the requirements shown in Table E 503.7.1(2) and includes the use of an internal electric resistance heating. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.3.5] E 503.4.6.7 Humidification and Dehumidifica- tion Control. Humidification and dehumidification

    control shall be in accordance with Section E 503.4.6.7.1 through Section E 503.4.6.7.3. E 503.4.6.7.1 Dehumidification. Humidistatic controls shall not use mechanical cooling to reduce the humidity below the lower of a dew point of 55°F (12.8°C) or relative humidity of 60 percent in the coldest zone served by the system. Exceptions: (1) Lower humidity shall be permitted when operating mechanical cooling for temperature control.

    (2) Systems serving zones where specific humidity levels are required, such as museums and hospitals, and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction or required by accreditation standards, and where humidistatic controls are capable of and configured to maintain a dead band of at least 10 percent relative humidity where no active humidification or dehumidification takes place.

    (3) Systems serving zones where humidity levels are required to be maintained with precision of not more than ±5 percent relative humidity to comply with applicable codes or accreditation standards or as approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.3.6.1]

    E 503.4.6.7.2 Humidification. Humidistatic controls shall not use fossil fuel or electricity to produce relative humidity above 30 percent in the warmest zone served by the system.

    Exceptions:

    (1) Systems serving zones where specific humidity levels are required, such as museums and hospitals, and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction or required by accreditation standards, and where humidistatic controls are capable of and configured to maintain a dead band of at least 10 percent relative humidity where no active humidification or dehumidification takes place.

    TABLE E 503.4.6.4.2 MAXIMUM DAMPER LEAKAGE [1, 2]

    (cubic foot per minute per square foot) at 1.0 inch water gauge

    [ASHRAE 90.1: TABLE 6.4.3.4.3]

  • CFC § 1.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    Where explosion control is required in Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_.
    j. Does not apply to consumer fireworks, Division 1.4G.
    k. Not required for Category 1B Flammable Gases having a burning velocity not exceeding 3.9 inches per second (10 cm/s).|a. See Section 414.1.3.
    b. See the_California Fire Code_.
    c. Combustible dusts where manufactured, generated or used in such a manner that the concentration and conditions create a fire or explosion hazard based on information
    prepared in accordance with Section 104.2.2 of the_California Fire Code_. See definition of "Combustible dust" in Chapter 2.
    d. Storage or use.
    e. In open use or dispensing.
    f. Rooms containing dispensing and use of hazardous materials where an explosive environment can occur because of the characteristics or nature of the hazardous materials
    or as a result of the dispensing or use process.
    g. A method of explosion control shall be provided where Class 2 water-reactive materials can form potentially explosive mixtures.
    h. Explosion venting is not required for Group H-5 fabrication areas complying with Section 415.11.1 and the_California Fire Code_.
    i. Where explosion control is required in Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_.
    j. Does not apply to consumer fireworks, Division 1.4G.
    k. Not required for Category 1B Flammable Gases having a burning velocity not exceeding 3.9 inches per second (10 cm/s).|

    [F] 414.5.2 Emergency or standby power. Where required by the California Fire Code or this code, mechanical ventilation, treatment systems, temperature control, alarm, detection or other electrically operated systems shall be provided with emergency or standby power in accordance with Section 2702. For storage and use areas for highly toxic or toxic materials, see Sections 6004.2.2.8 and 6004.3.4.2 of the California Fire Code .

    [F] 414.5.2.1 Exempt applications. Emergency or standby power is not required for the mechanical ventilation systems provided for any of the following:

    1. Storage of Class IB and IC flammable and combustible liquids in closed containers not exceeding 6.5 gallons (25 L) capacity.
    2. Storage of Class 1 and 2 oxidizers.
    3. Storage of Class II, III, IV and V organic peroxides.
    4. Storage of asphyxiant, irritant and radioactive gases.

    [F] 414.5.2.2 Fail-safe engineered systems. Standby power for mechanical ventilation, treatment systems and temperature control systems shall not be required where an approved fail-safe engineered system is installed.

    [F] 414.5.3 Spill control, drainage and containment. Rooms, buildings or areas occupied for the storage of solid and liquid hazardous materials shall be provided with a means to control spillage and to contain or drain off spillage and fire protection water discharged in the storage area where required in the California Fire Code . The methods of spill control shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    414.5.4 Hazardous material handling. The handling of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with California Fire Code Section 5003.

  • CFC § 1.90 Medium relevance — show source text

    RC.L|1.90 ×TDA + 7.08|1.90 ×TDA + 7.08| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Vertical Closed
    Transparent (VCT)|38 (M)|≥32|VCT.SC.M|0.10 ×V + 0.86|0.10 ×V + 0.86| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Vertical Closed
    Transparent (VCT)|0 (L)|<32|VCT.SC.L|0.29 ×V + 2.95|0.29 ×V + 2.95| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Vertical Closed
    Solid (VCS)|38 (M)|≥32|VCS.SC.M|0.05 ×V + 1.36|0.05 ×V + 1.36| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Vertical Closed
    Solid (VCS)|0 (L)|<32|VCS.SC.L|0.22 ×V + 1.38|0.22 ×V + 1.38| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Horizontal Closed
    Transparent (HCT)|38 (M)|≥32|HCT.SC.M|0.06 ×V + 0.37|0.06 ×V + 0.37| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Horizontal Closed
    Transparent (HCT)|0 (L)|<32|HCT.SC.L|0.08 ×V + 1.23|0.08 ×V + 1.23| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Horizontal Closed
    Solid (HCS)|38 (M)|≥32|HCS.SC.M|0.05 ×V + 0.91|0.05 ×V + 0.91| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Horizontal Closed
    Solid (HCS)|0 (L)|<32|HCS.SC.L|0.06 ×V + 1.12|0.06 ×V + 1.12| |Self-contained
    commercial
    refrigerators and
    commercial
    freezers with and
    with outdoors|
    Self-contained
    (SC)|Service Over
    Counter (SOC)|38 (M)|≥32|SOC.SC.M|0.52 ×TDA + 1.00|0.52 ×TDA + 1.

  • CFC § 1207.6.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    The thermal runaway protection is permitted to be part of a battery management system that has been evaluated with the battery as part of the evaluation to UL 1973.
    f. Not required for batteries with jelled electrolyte.|

    1207.6.1 Exhaust ventilation. Where required by Table 1207.6 or elsewhere in this code, exhaust ventilation of rooms, areas and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS shall be provided in accordance with the California Mechanical Code and Section 1207.6.1.1 or 1207.6.1.2.

    1207.6.1.1 Ventilation based on LFL. The exhaust ventilation system shall be designed to limit the maximum concentration of flammable gas to 25 percent of the lower flammable limit (LFL) of the total volume of the room, area or walk-in unit during the worst-case event of simultaneous charging of batteries at the maximum charge rate, in accordance with nationally recognized standards.

    1207.6.1.2 Ventilation based on exhaust rate. Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided at a rate of not less than 1 ft [3] /min/ft [2] (5.1 L/sec/m [2] ) of floor area of the room, area or walk-in unit. The ventilation shall be either continuous or shall be activated by a gas detection system in accordance with Section 1207.6.1.2.4.

    1207.6.1.2.1 Standby power. Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided with a minimum of 2 hours of standby power in accordance with Section 1203.2.5.

    1207.6.1.2.2 Installation instructions. Required mechanical exhaust ventilation systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and the California Mechanical Code .

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-17

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    1207.6.1.2.3 Supervision. Required mechanical exhaust ventilation systems shall be supervised by an approved central station, proprietary or remote station service in accordance with NFPA 72, or shall initiate an audible and visible signal at an approved constantly attended on-site location.

    1207.6.1.2.4 Gas detection system. Where required by Section 1207.6.1.2, rooms, areas and walk-in units containing ESS shall be protected by an approved continuous gas detection system that complies with Section 916 and with the following:

    1. The gas detection system shall be designed to activate the mechanical ventilation system when the level of flammable gas in the room, area or walk-in unit exceeds 25 percent of the LFL.

    2. The mechanical ventilation system shall remain on until the flammable gas detected is less than 25 percent of the LFL.

    3. The gas detection system shall be provided with a minimum of 2 hours of standby power in accordance with Section 1203.2.5.

    4. Failure of the gas detection system shall annunciate a trouble signal at an approved central station, proprietary or remote station service in accordance with NFPA 72, or shall initiate an audible and visible trouble signal at an approved constantly attended on-site location. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  • CFC § 415.11.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Storage or use.
    e. In open use or dispensing.
    f. Rooms containing dispensing and use of hazardous materials where an explosive environment can occur because of the characteristics or nature of the hazardous materials
    or as a result of the dispensing or use process.
    g. A method of explosion control shall be provided where Class 2 water-reactive materials can form potentially explosive mixtures.
    h. Explosion venting is not required for Group H-5 fabrication areas complying with Section 415.11.1 and the_California Fire Code_.
    i. Where explosion control is required in Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_.
    j. Does not apply to consumer fireworks, Division 1.4G.
    k. Not required for Category 1B Flammable Gases having a burning velocity not exceeding 3.9 inches per second (10 cm/s).|a. See Section 414.1.3.
    b. See the_California Fire Code_.
    c. Combustible dusts where manufactured, generated or used in such a manner that the concentration and conditions create a fire or explosion hazard based on information
    prepared in accordance with Section 104.2.2 of the_California Fire Code_. See definition of "Combustible dust" in Chapter 2.
    d. Storage or use.
    e. In open use or dispensing.
    f. Rooms containing dispensing and use of hazardous materials where an explosive environment can occur because of the characteristics or nature of the hazardous materials
    or as a result of the dispensing or use process.
    g. A method of explosion control shall be provided where Class 2 water-reactive materials can form potentially explosive mixtures.
    h. Explosion venting is not required for Group H-5 fabrication areas complying with Section 415.11.1 and the_California Fire Code_.
    i. Where explosion control is required in Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_.
    j. Does not apply to consumer fireworks, Division 1.4G.
    k. Not required for Category 1B Flammable Gases having a burning velocity not exceeding 3.9 inches per second (10 cm/s).|a. See Section 414.1.3.
    b. See the_California Fire Code_.
    c. Combustible dusts where manufactured, generated or used in such a manner that the concentration and conditions create a fire or explosion hazard based on information
    prepared in accordance with Section 104.2.2 of the_California Fire Code_. See definition of "Combustible dust" in Chapter 2.
    d. Storage or use.
    e. In open use or dispensing.
    f. Rooms containing dispensing and use of hazardous materials where an explosive environment can occur because of the characteristics or nature of the hazardous materials
    or as a result of the dispensing or use process.
    g. A method of explosion control shall be provided where Class 2 water-reactive materials can form potentially explosive mixtures.
    h. Explosion venting is not required for Group H-5 fabrication areas complying with Section 415.11.1 and the_California Fire Code_.
    i. Where explosion control is required in Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_.
    j. Does not apply to consumer fireworks, Division 1.4G.
    k. Not required for Category 1B Flammable Gases having a burning velocity not exceeding 3.9 inches per second (10 cm/s).|

  • CFC § 1305.2.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    2, 1305.2.3.3, 1305.2.4.1, 1305.2.5, 1305.2.5.1, 1305.2.6, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.9, 1305.2.9.1, 1305.2.10, 1305.2.10.1, 1305.2.11, 1305.2.11.1, 1305.2.12.1, 1305.2.13, Table 1305.2.15, 1305.2.15.1, 1305.2.16.1, 1305.2.17, 1305.2.17.1, 1305.2.18, 1305.2.18.1, 1305.2.19, Table 1305.2.19, 1305.2.20, 1305.2.20.1, 1307.1.1, 1401.2, 1402.1, 1402.2, 1402.2.1, 1402.3, 1402.4, 1402.5, 1402.6, 1501.5, 1504.1.1, 1504.1.4.1, 1504.1.7, 1509.1, 1509.3, 1510.1

    CEC — 25 : California Energy Code

    302.2, 702.7, 708.1, 809.1, 907.1, 1104.1

    CFC—25: California Fire Code

    101.2.2, 101.4.2, 301.3.1, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 802.2.1, 802.2.3, 803.2.3, 803.4.1.1, 803.4.1.2, 803.4.1.3, 803.4.1.4, 803.4.1.5, 803.4.1.6, Table 804.5.1.1(1), 904.1.5, 1011.6.1.1, 1303.1.2, 1305.2.8.1, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, 1401.2, 1501.1, 1501.5, 1502.1, 1502.1.1, 1502.2, 1502.3, 1504.1, 1507.1, 1507.2

    CMC—25: California Mechanical Code

    302.2, 702.7, 807.1, 902.1.1, 1008.1, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.8.1

    CPC—25: California Plumbing Code

    302.2, 408.1, 702.7, 1009.1, 1009.2, 1009.3, 1009.5, 1302.1.6, 1503.1

  • CFC § 5303.16.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    1, 5303.16.1, 5303.16.2, 5306.1, 5306.2, 5306.2.1, 5306.2.2, 5307.4.6, 5503.1.2, 5503.5.2, 5504.2.1.2, 5504.2.2.2, 5505.4.1, 5604.2, Table 5604.5.2(3), 5605.5, 5701.3, 5704.2.7.7, 5704.2.8.1, 5704.2.8.2, 5704.2.9.3, 5704.2.9.4, 5704.3.3.5, 5704.3.7.1, 5704.3.8, 5705.3.4, 5705.3.5.3, 5705.3.7.1, 5705.3.7.2, 5705.3.7.3, 5705.3.7.4, 5705.3.7.5.1, 5706.2.3, 5706.4.1, 5803.1.1, 5806.4.3, 5808.1, 5808.3, 5808.3.2, 5906.2.2, 5906.2.3, 5906.4.2, 6003.1.4.2, 6005.3.1, 6109.11.2, 6204.1.2, 6306.4, 6404.1.4, 6604.1

    CEBC—25: California Existing Building Code

    102.3, 1011.5.2, 1103.1, 1104.18, 1105.5.2

    CMC—25: California Mechanical Code

    201.3, 308.3, 605.1, 605.2.1.1, 605.2.1.2, 605.2.1.3, 605.2.1.4, 605.2.1.5, 605.3, 605.4, 605.4.2.3, 605.4.2.5, 605.5.2, 605.7, 606.1, 606.2, 608.1, 608.3, 608.4, 608.5, 608.8, 608.9.1, 608.10, 608.17, 610.1.1, 903.2.11.4, 904.14, 907.3.1, 909.1, 909.10.2, 909.13.1, 910.4.7, 915.6.1, 1006.2.2.3, 1011.16, 1020.6.1, 1207.4.7, 1207.6.1, 1207.6.1.2.2, 1207.11.8, 2104.2.1, 2105.3, 2301.1, 2301.6, 2309.3.1.2, 2311.3.1, 2311.4.3, 2311.8.2, 2311.

  • CFC § 1207.8.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    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.

    1207.8.4 Exterior wall installations. ESS shall be permitted to be installed outdoors on exterior walls of buildings when all of the following conditions are met:

    1. The maximum energy capacity of individual ESS units shall not exceed 20 kWh.
    2. The ESS shall comply with applicable requirements in Section 1207.
    3. The ESS shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing.
    4. Individual ESS units shall be separated from each other by at least 3 feet (914 mm).
    5. The ESS shall be separated from doors, windows, operable openings into buildings or HVAC inlets by at least 5 feet (1524 mm).

    Exception: Where approved, smaller separation distances in Items 4 and 5 shall be permitted based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    12-20 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    1207.9 Special installations. Rooftop and open parking garage ESS installations shall comply with Sections 1207.9.1 through 1207.9.6.

  • CFC § 1207.4.8 Medium 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

    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.)

    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 § 101.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    CFC—25: California Fire Code

    101.2.2, 101.4.2, 301.3.1, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 802.2.1, 802.2.3, 803.2.3, 803.4.1.1, 803.4.1.2, 803.4.1.3, 803.4.1.4, 803.4.1.5, 803.4.1.6, Table 804.5.1.1(1), 904.1.5, 1011.6.1.1, 1303.1.2, 1305.2.8.1, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, 1401.2, 1501.1, 1501.5, 1502.1, 1502.1.1, 1502.2, 1502.3, 1504.1, 1507.1, 1507.2

    CMC—25: California Mechanical Code

    302.2, 702.7, 807.1, 902.1.1, 1008.1, 1305.2.7.1, 1305.2.8, 1305.2.8.1

    CPC—25: California Plumbing Code

    302.2, 408.1, 702.7, 1009.1, 1009.2, 1009.3, 1009.5, 1302.1.6, 1503.1

    16-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    REFERENCED STANDARDS

    CRC—25: California Residential Code

    101.2, 101.4.1, 104.3.1, 109.3.3, 109.3.10, 302.2, 307.1, 308.1, 401.3, 402.1, 405.2.6, 502.2, 502.3, 502.4, 503.2, 503.3, 503.11, 505.2, 505.3, 507.3, 701.3, 702.4, 702.5, 706.2, 708.1, 805.2, 806.4, 809.1, 906.2, 907.1, 1011.2.1, 1103.1, 1103.2, 1103.3, 1104.1, 1201.4, 1302.1.2, 1302.1.3, 1302.1.3, 1303.1.3, 1401.2, 1402.1, 1402.2, 1402.2.1, 1402.3, 1402.4, 1402.5, 1402.6

    ICC 300—2023: ICC Standard on Bleachers, Folding and Telescopic Seating and Grandstands

    301.1.1, 401.1.1, 1401.1.1

    ICC A117.1—2017: Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities

  • CFC § 910.4.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    910.4.3.1 Makeup air. Makeup air openings shall be provided within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the floor level. Operation of makeup air openings shall be manual or automatic. The minimum gross area of makeup air inlets shall be 8 square feet per 1,000 cubic feet per minute (0.74 m [2] per 0.4719 m [3] /s) of smoke exhaust.

    910.4.4 Activation. The mechanical smoke removal system shall be activated by manual controls only.

    910.4.5 Manual control location. Manual controls shall be located where they are able to be accessed by the fire service from an exterior door of the building and separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

    910.4.6 Control wiring. Wiring for operation and control of mechanical smoke removal systems shall be connected ahead of the main disconnect in accordance with Section 701.12E of the California Electrical Code and be protected against interior fire exposure to temperatures in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) for a period of not less than 15 minutes.

    910.4.7 Controls. Where building air-handling and mechanical smoke removal systems are combined or where independent building air-handling systems are provided, fans shall automatically shut down in accordance with the California Mechanical Code . The manual controls provided for the smoke removal system shall have the capability to override the automatic shutdown of fans that are part of the smoke removal system.

    910.5 Maintenance and testing. Maintenance and testing of smoke and heat vents and mechanical smoke removal systems shall be in accordance with Sections 910.5.1 and 910.5.2. A written record of inspection, testing and maintenance that includes the date, identification of personnel involved, any unsatisfactory result, corrective action taken and replaced parts shall be maintained on the premises.

    910.5.1 Smoke and heat vents. Smoke and heat vents shall be maintained in an operative condition. Inspection, testing and maintenance shall be in accordance with NFPA 204 except as follows:

    1. Mechanically operated smoke and heat vents shall be inspected annually and operationally tested not less than every 5

    years. 2. Gravity dropout smoke and heat vents shall be inspected annually. 3. Fused, damaged or painted fusible links shall be replaced.

    910.5.2 Mechanical smoke removal systems. Mechanical smoke removal systems shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA 204 and the equipment manufacturer’s instructions except as follows:

    1. Systems shall be inspected and operationally tested annually.
    2. Testing shall include the operation of all system components, controls and ancillary equipment, such as makeup air openings.
    3. A written schedule for routine maintenance and operational testing shall be established and testing shall be conducted in accordance with the schedule.

    SECTION 911—EXPLOSION CONTROL

    911.1 General. Explosion control shall be provided in the following locations:

    1. Where a structure, room or space is occupied for purposes involving explosion hazards as identified in Table 911.1.
    2. Where quantities of hazardous materials specified in Table 911.1 exceed the maximum allowable quantities in Table 5003.1.1(1).
  • 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

Frequently asked questions

What section requires me to show ventilation and venting on plan drawings?

Show ventilation, thermal management and deflagration venting details on permit drawings per § 1207.1.5.

At what concentration must gas detection start exhaust ventilation?

Gas detection must activate ventilation when flammable gas exceeds 25% of the LFL; ventilation must run until the gas is below 25% of the LFL. § 1207.6.1.2.4.

Can I size ventilation by room area instead of modeling LFL release?

Yes — the code allows mechanical exhaust sized at 1 ft³/min per ft² of floor area as an alternative; that exhaust can be continuous or detection-activated. § 1207.6.1.2.

How long must standby power be provided for detection/ventilation?

A minimum of 2 hours of standby power is required for required mechanical exhaust ventilation and the gas detection system it depends on. § 1207.6.1.2.1 / .4(3).

Where does the code say how to design deflagration vents?

Deflagration venting must be designed and installed in accordance with the California Fire Code and NFPA 68; vent pressures and discharge-clearance requirements are given in § 911.

My project uses an unusual battery chemistry — do I need extra analysis?

Yes. When an ESS technology is not listed in Table 1207.1.3 or where multiple technologies may interact, a hazard mitigation analysis (FMEA) is required under § 1207.1.6.

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