CFC · California Fire Code

When are ESS installations owned/operated by utilities or communications providers exempt or treated differently?

In plain terms: most utility or telecom energy storage installations still follow ESS rules — but the CFC gives specific, narrow exceptions. Capacitor equipment used by electric utilities is excluded; telecom lead‑acid or Ni‑Cd battery systems under exclusive communications control that comply with NFPA 76 and operate below 50 VAC/60 VDC get several permit, commissioning and explosion‑control exceptions; electric‑utility ESS plans tied to critical infrastructure may be handled under restricted viewing rules. See **§ 1207.1.1**, **§ 1207.1.4.1** and **§ 1207.1.5.1** for the exact code text.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Fire Code treats some utility and communications Energy Storage System (ESS) installations differently from general commercial or residential ESS. In particular, § 1207.1.1 excludes capacitors and capacitor equipment used by electric utilities/industrial facilities from the ESS rules; § 1207.1.4.1 exempts certain lead‑acid and nickel‑cadmium (Ni‑Cd) telecom battery systems from operational-permit requirements when under the exclusive control of communications utilities and meeting voltage and NFPA criteria; and § 1207.1.5.1 clarifies confidentiality and plan‑viewing procedures for ESS owned/operated by electric utilities as critical infrastructure. § 1207.1.1 , § 1207.1.4.1 , § 1207.1.5.1 .

The single most important practical rule: if the ESS is a utility/communications asset meeting the specific technology, location and voltage limits in the code, the CFC either excludes it from certain ESS rules or permits alternative (often industry‑standard) compliance paths. See the precise § references below.

Requirements in detail

Who and what can be treated differently

  • Electric utility capacitor equipment used for FACTS, filter banks, power‑factor correction and similar industrial uses is outside Section 1207 (the ESS rules) under § 1207.1.1. § 1207.1.1 .
  • Communications‑utility lead‑acid and Ni‑Cd battery systems that are:
    • under the exclusive control of the communications utility, and
    • in facilities that comply with NFPA 76, and
    • operate at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC are eligible for specific exceptions (for example, no operational permit required) under § 1207.1.4.1 and related exceptions elsewhere in Section 1207. § 1207.1.4.1 .

What is permitted or exempted (high-level)

  • No application of Section 1207 to certain capacitor equipment: § 1207.1.1 .
  • No operational permit required for the specified communications battery systems meeting the voltage and NFPA limits: § 1207.1.4.1 .
  • Alternative or reduced commissioning, explosion control, signage, and other equipment/plan requirements for qualifying communications/utility battery installations—see the specific exceptions in Sections 1207.2, 1207.3 and 1207.6 (examples below) and the plan‑viewing/confidentiality treatment for electric‑utility ESS documents under § 1207.1.5.1. § 1207.1.5.1 .

Decision table — key dimensions you must check before assuming an exemption

Decision dimension Key value or threshold Effect under CFC Code Reference
Technology type Capacitors used by electric utilities/industrial facilities Section 1207 does not apply (excluded) § 1207.1.1
Owner / operator Communications utility with exclusive control of the facility Eligible for several exceptions (permits, commissioning, explosion control, signage) when other criteria met § 1207.1.4.1, §1207.2 exceptions, §1207.6 exceptions
Voltage limits Less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC Required condition for communications‑utility battery exceptions § 1207.1.4.1
Standards compliance NFPA 76 (telecom facilities) Required for communications‑utility exceptions; alternative signage/commissioning per NFPA 76 allowed § 1207.1.4.1, §1207.2 exceptions
Confidentiality / critical infra ESS owned/operated by electric utilities as critical infrastructure Plans/specs must be made available for viewing consistent with NERC or other applicable laws (limited distribution) § 1207.1.5.1
Explosion control Lead‑acid / Ni‑Cd under communications utility + voltage limits Explosion‑control requirements may be waived or are not required per exceptions §1207.6 exceptions

How the code implements these differences (practical items)

  • Permits: Operational permits are normally required for stationary ESS, but do not apply to qualifying communications battery systems per § 1207.1.4.1 .
  • Commissioning / commissioning reports: Commissioning is required generally, but commissioning is not required for qualifying communications lead‑acid/Ni‑Cd systems; a decommissioning plan is still required where the fire code official requires one; alternative commissioning plans based on industry practice are permitted in lieu of full Section 1207.2 for qualifying systems (see exceptions). § 1207.2 exceptions .
  • Explosion control, ventilation, signage, and electrical disconnect signage: several Section 1207 provisions have explicit exceptions for communications‑utility systems meeting the <50 VAC / <60 VDC and NFPA 76 conditions—for example, some explosion‑control provisions are explicitly not required for those systems. § 1207.6 exceptions .
  • Plan confidentiality / review: for electric‑utility ESS that are critical infrastructure under NERC or other law, the code requires that plans and specifications be made available to the fire code official for viewing consistent with applicable governmental rules—this allows restricted viewing in line with security needs rather than open public plan sets. § 1207.1.5.1 .

Exceptions & special cases

  • Lead‑acid and Ni‑Cd systems in telecommunications facilities under exclusive communications‑utility control that comply with NFPA 76 and meet the 50 VAC / 60 VDC limits are specifically handled across multiple sections: permits (§ 1207.1.4.1), commissioning and commissioning exceptions (§ 1207.2), explosion control and ventilation (§ 1207.6), size/separation and maximum quantities (§ 1207.5) and signage/ disconnects (§ 1207.4.1) .
  • Electric‑utility ESS that supply DC control power for substations or safe shutdown of generating stations and that are under exclusive electric‑utility control (and located outdoors or in spaces used exclusively for such installations) are treated more flexibly for explosion control and commissioning—see the exceptions in Sections 1207.2 and 1207.6. (See Section 1207 exceptions.) .
  • Capacitor ESS used in utility/industrial applications are not subject to Section 1207 (they are excluded entirely) per § 1207.1.1 .
  • If an installation claims an exception, the authority having jurisdiction may still require documentation, alternate compliance, or a hazard mitigation analysis (FMEA) under § 1207.1.6 where technologies or interactions are not covered by standard exceptions. § 1207.1.6 .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming “utility‑owned” always equals “exempt.” Ownership alone is not sufficient—technology, location, voltage limits and standards compliance (e.g., NFPA 76) must all be met for the exceptions to apply. See § 1207.1.4.1 and related exceptions. § 1207.1.4.1 .
  • Missing the voltage thresholds: the communications‑utility exceptions require <50 VAC and <60 VDC. If your telecom battery system is above those voltages, the standard ESS requirements apply. § 1207.1.4.1 .
  • Forgetting NFPA 76 compliance: communications facilities must comply with NFPA 76 to use many of the exceptions—document that compliance. § 1207.1.4.1 .
  • Treating capacitor banks the same as batteries: capacitor equipment used for FACTS, filter banks and power correction at utilities is explicitly excluded from Section 1207—do not apply the battery limits/thresholds to those capacitor systems. § 1207.1.1 .
  • Overlooking plan confidentiality rules: electric‑utility ESS plans may be treated as critical infrastructure documents and provided for viewing under applicable laws rather than being released publicly. Coordinate with the fire code official early. § 1207.1.5.1 .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A communications provider operates an outdoor telecom shelter containing lead‑acid backup batteries rated 48 VDC total, used only to power communications gear. The shelter and equipment are maintained by the communications utility and the facility is documented to comply with NFPA 76.

  1. Is an operational permit required? No — because this is a lead‑acid battery system under the exclusive control of a communications utility, compliant with NFPA 76, and operating below 60 VDC; therefore § 1207.1.4.1 says operational permits are not required for this case. § 1207.1.4.1 .
  2. Do commissioning requirements apply? The full Section 1207 commissioning requirements can be reduced or substituted with an industry‑practice commissioning plan under the Section 1207 exceptions for these systems; a decommissioning plan still needs to be provided/maintained as required by the fire code official. See the commissioning exceptions in Section 1207.2. § 1207.2 exceptions .
  3. Explosion control / ventilation? Explosion‑control requirements that would otherwise apply to vented batteries are not required for these communications‑utility installations operating under the stated voltage and NFPA 76 compliance—see the exceptions in § 1207.6. § 1207.6 exceptions .
  4. Plan submission / confidentiality: because this is a communications utility installation (not an electric‑utility critical‑infrastructure ESS), the special plan‑viewing confidentiality provision in § 1207.1.5.1 (which applies to electric utilities/NERC critical infrastructure) is not the controlling provision; nevertheless, the permit application should still include the construction documents listed in § 1207.1.5 unless an exception applies. § 1207.1.5 and § 1207.1.5.1 .

Related provisions (quick links)

  • § 1207.1.1 — Utilities and industrial applications (capacitor exclusion)
  • § 1207.1.4.1 — Communication utilities (operational permit exception; voltage/NFPA 76 limits)
  • § 1207.1.5.1 — Utilities applicability (plan submittal confidentiality / NERC critical infrastructure viewing)
  • § 1207.2 — Commissioning / commissioning exceptions for utilities/communications systems
  • § 1207.3 — Equipment; includes exceptions/retrofit rules for utility/communications battery systems
  • § 1207.5 — Size, separation and maximum allowable quantities with exceptions for utility/communications installations
  • § 1207.6 — Technology‑specific protections (explosion control, ventilation, spill control) with communications/utility exceptions
  • § 1207.1.6 — Hazard mitigation analysis / FMEA requirements when exceptions or mixed technologies create uncertainty

Code references

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

  • CFC § 1207.2.2.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. 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.
    2. A schedule for inspecting and recalibrating all ESS controls.
    3. A service record log form that lists the schedule for all required servicing and maintenance actions and space for logging such actions that are completed over time and retained on-site.

    The ESS shall be operated and maintained in accordance with the manual and a copy of the manual shall be retained at an approved on-site location.

    1207.2.2.1 Ongoing inspection and testing. Systems that monitor and protect the ESS installation shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the operation and maintenance manual. Inspection and testing records shall be maintained in the operation and maintenance manual.

    1207.2.3 Decommissioning. The code official shall be notified prior to the decommissioning of an ESS. Decommissioning shall be performed in accordance with the decommissioning plan that includes the following:

    1. A narrative description of the activities to be accomplished for removing the ESS from service, and from the facility in which it is located.

    2. A listing of any 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. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.3 Equipment. ESS equipment shall be in accordance with Sections 1207.3.1 through 1207.3.9.

    1207.3.1 Energy storage system listings. ESS shall be listed in accordance with UL 9540.

    Exceptions:

    1. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems less than 50 VAC, 60 VDC in telecommunications facilities for installations of communications equipment under the exclusive control of communications utilities located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations that are in compliance with NFPA 76.
    2. 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 utility, and located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations.
    3. Lead-acid battery systems in uninterruptable power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778 and utilized for standby power applications.

    (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.3.2 Equipment listing. Chargers, inverters and energy storage management systems shall be covered as part of the UL 9540 listing or shall be listed separately.

    1207.3.3 Utility interactive systems. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Only inverters listed and labeled for utility interactive system use and identified as interactive shall be allowed to operate in parallel with the electric utility power system to supply power to common loads.

    1207.3.4 Energy storage management system. Where required by the ESS listing, an approved energy storage management system that monitors and balances cell voltages, currents and temperatures within the manufacturer’s specifications shall be provided. The system shall disconnect electrical connections to the ESS or otherwise place it in a safe condition if potentially hazardous temperatures or other conditions such as short circuits, over voltage or under voltage are detected. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.3.5 Enclosures. Enclosures of ESS shall be of noncombustible construction. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

  • CFC § 12-16 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. Fire suppression systems for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities that operate at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC shall be provided where required by NFPA 76.
    2. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium 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 utility, and located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations, shall not be required to have a fire suppression system installed.
    3. Lead-acid battery systems in uninterruptable power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778, utilized for standby power applications, which is limited to not more than 10 percent of the floor area on the floor on which the ESS is located, shall not be required to have a fire suppression system. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    12-16 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    1207.5.5.1 Water-reactive systems. Electrochemical ESS that utilize water-reactive materials shall be protected by an approved alternative automatic fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section 904, where the installation is approved by the fire code official based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7. 1207.5.6 Maximum enclosure size. Outdoor walk-in units housing ESS shall not exceed 53 feet by 8 feet by 9.5 feet high (16 154 mm × 2438 mm × 2896 mm), not including bolt-on HVAC and related equipment, as approved. Outdoor walk-in units exceeding these limitations shall be considered indoor installations and comply with the requirements in Section 1207.7. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.) 1207.5.7 Vegetation control. Areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side of outdoor ESS shall be cleared of combustible vegetation and other combustible growth. Single specimens of trees, shrubbery or cultivated ground cover such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants used as ground cover shall be permitted to be exempt provided that they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.) 1207.5.8 Means of egress separation. ESS located outdoors and in open parking garages shall be separated from any means of egress as required by the fire code official to ensure safe egress under fire conditions, but in no case less than 10 feet (3048 mm).

    Exception: The fire code official is authorized to approve a reduced separation distance if large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7 is provided that shows that a fire involving the ESS will not adversely impact occupant egress. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.6 Electrochemical ESS technology-specific protection. Electrochemical ESS installations shall comply with the requirements of this section in accordance with the applicable requirements of Table 1207.6. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    |TABLE 1207.

  • 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.

    12-12 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    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 § 1207.1.7 High relevance — show source text

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

    1. Where approved, explosion control is permitted to be waived by the fire code official based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7 that demonstrates that flammable gases are not liberated from electrochemical ESS cells or modules.

    2. Where approved, explosion control is permitted to be waived by the fire code official based on documentation provided in accordance with Section 104.2.2 that demonstrates that the electrochemical ESS technology to be used does not have the potential to release flammable gas concentrations in excess of 25 percent of the LFL anywhere in the room, area, walk-in unit or structure under thermal runaway or other fault conditions.

    3. Where approved, ESS cabinets that have no debris, shrapnel or enclosure pieces ejected during large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 shall be permitted in lieu of providing explosion control complying with Section 911.

    4. Explosion control is not required for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems less than 50 VAC, 60 VDC in telecommunication facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities located in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations.

    5. Explosion control is not required for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium 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, located in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations.

    6. Explosion control is not required for lead-acid battery systems in uninterruptable power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778, utilized for standby power applications, and housed in a single cabinet in a single fire area in buildings or walk-in units.

    1207.6.4 Safety caps. Where required by Table 1207.6 or elsewhere in this code, vented batteries and other ESS shall be provided with flame-arresting safety caps.

    1207.6.5 Thermal runaway. Where required by Table 1207.6 or elsewhere in this code, batteries and other ESS shall be provided with a listed device or other approved method to prevent, detect and minimize the impact of thermal runaway.

    1207.7 Indoor installations. Indoor ESS installations shall be in accordance with Sections 1207.7.1 through 1207.7.4. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    12-18 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    TABLE 1207.7—INDOOR ESS INSTALLATIONS Col2 Col3 Col4
    COMPLIANCE REQUIRED COMPLIANCE REQUIRED DEDICATED-USE
    BUILDINGSa    		 NONDEDICATED-USE
    BUILDINGSb
    Feature Section Section Section
    Dwelling units and sleeping units 1207.7.3 NA Yes
    COMPLIANCE REQUIRED COMPLIANCE REQUIRED DEDICATED-USE
    BUILDINGSa    		 NONDEDICATED-USE
    BUILDINGSb
    Feature Section Section Section
    Elevation 1207.5.
  • CFC § 12-10 High relevance — show source text

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

    12-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    1. Where ESS technologies not specifically identified in Table 1207.1.3 are provided.
    2. More than one ESS technology is provided in a single fire area where there is a potential for adverse interaction between technologies.
    3. Where allowed as a basis for increasing maximum allowable quantities. See Section 1207.5.2.
    4. Where required by the fire code official to address a potential hazard with an ESS installation that is not addressed by existing requirements.
  • CFC § 1207.6.2 High relevance — show source text

    1207.6.2 Spill control and neutralization. Where required by Table 1207.6 or elsewhere in this code, areas containing free-flowing liquid electrolyte or hazardous materials shall be provided with spill control and neutralization in accordance with this section. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.6.2.1 Spill control. Spill control shall be provided to prevent the flow of liquid electrolyte or hazardous materials to adjoining rooms or areas. The method shall be capable of containing a spill from the single largest battery or vessel. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.6.2.2 Neutralization. An approved method that is capable of neutralizing spilled liquid electrolyte from the largest battery or vessel to a pH between 5.0 and 9.0 shall be provided. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.6.2.3 Communications utilities. The requirements of Section 1207.6.2 shall apply only when the aggregate capacity of multiple vessels exceeds 1,000 gallons (3785 L) for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems operating at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC that are located at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities, and those facilities comply with NFPA 76 in addition to applicable requirements of this code.

    1207.6.3 Explosion control. Where required by Table 1207.6 or elsewhere in this code, explosion control complying with Section 911 shall be provided for rooms, areas, ESS cabinets or ESS walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS technologies.

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

    1. Where approved, explosion control is permitted to be waived by the fire code official based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7 that demonstrates that flammable gases are not liberated from electrochemical ESS cells or modules.

    2. Where approved, explosion control is permitted to be waived by the fire code official based on documentation provided in accordance with Section 104.2.2 that demonstrates that the electrochemical ESS technology to be used does not have the potential to release flammable gas concentrations in excess of 25 percent of the LFL anywhere in the room, area, walk-in unit or structure under thermal runaway or other fault conditions.

    3. Where approved, ESS cabinets that have no debris, shrapnel or enclosure pieces ejected during large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 shall be permitted in lieu of providing explosion control complying with Section 911.

    4. Explosion control is not required for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems less than 50 VAC, 60 VDC in telecommunication facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities located in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations.

    5. Explosion control is not required for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium 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, located in building spaces or walk-in units used exclusively for such installations.

    6. Explosion control is not required for lead-acid battery systems in uninterruptable power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778, utilized for standby power applications, and housed in a single cabinet in a single fire area in buildings or walk-in units.

  • 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.)
  • 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 § 12-9 Medium relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-9

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

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

    1. Lot lines.

    2. Public ways.

    3. Buildings.

    4. Stored combustible materials.

    5. Hazardous materials.

    6. High-piled stock.

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

    8. Other exposure hazards.

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

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

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

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

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

    SECTION 1207—ELECTRICAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (ESS)

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

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

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

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

    1. The mobile ESS complies with Section 1207.10.
    2. The mobile ESS is being used only during periods in which the facility’s stationary ESS is being tested, repaired, retrofitted or replaced. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
  • CFC § 1207.5.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    For electrochemical ESS units rated in amp-hours, kWh shall equal rated voltage times the amp-hour rating divided by 1,000.
    b. Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies.|

    1207.5.1 Size and separation. Electrochemical ESS shall be segregated into groups not exceeding 50 kWh (180 megajoules). Each group shall be separated a minimum of 3 feet (914 mm) from other groups and from walls in the storage room or area. The storage arrangements shall comply with Chapter 10.

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

    1. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems in facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities and operating at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC in accordance with NFPA 76.

    2. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium 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 utility, and located outdoors or in building spaces used exclusively for such installations.

    3. Lead-acid battery systems in uninterruptable power supplies listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1778, utilized for standby power applications, and limited to not more than 10 percent of the floor area on the floor on which the ESS is located.

    4. The fire code official is authorized to approve larger capacities or smaller separation distances based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.

    1207.5.2 Maximum allowable quantities. Fire areas within rooms, areas and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities in Table 1207.5.

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

    1. Where approved by the fire code official, rooms, areas and walk-in units containing electrochemical ESS that exceed the amounts in Table 1207.5 shall be permitted based on a hazardous mitigation analysis in accordance with Section 1207.1.6 and large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.7.
    2. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems installed in facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities, and operating at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC in accordance with NFPA 76.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-15

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    1. Dedicated-use buildings in compliance with Section 1207.7.1.

    1207.5.2.1 Mixed electrochemical energy systems. Where rooms, areas and walk-in units contain different types of electrochemical energy technologies, the total aggregate quantities of the systems shall be determined based on the sum of percentages of each technology-type quantity divided by the maximum allowable quantity of each technology type. The sum of the percentages shall not exceed 100 percent of the maximum allowable quantity.

    1207.5.3 Elevation. Electrochemical ESS shall not be located in the following areas:

    1. Where the floor is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
    2. Where the floor is located below the lowest level of exit discharge.

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

    1. Lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC installed in facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities in accordance with NFPA 76.
  • CFC § 1207.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
    TABLE 1207.1.3—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (ESS) THRESHOLD QUANTITIES Col2
    TECHNOLOGY ENERGY CAPACITYa
    Capacitor ESS 3 kWh
    Flow batteriesb 20 kWh
    Lead-acid batteries, all types 70 kWhc
    Lithium-ion batteries 20 kWh
    Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) and nickel zinc (Ni-Zn) batteries 70 kWh
    Nonelectrochemical ESSd 70 kWh
    Other battery technologies 10 kWh
    Other electrochemical ESS technologies 3 kWh
    Sodium nickel chloride batteries 70 kWh
    Zinc manganese dioxide batteries (Zn-MnO2) 70 kWh
    For SI: 1 kilowatt hour = 3.6 megajoules.
    a. Energy capacity is the total energy capable of being stored (nameplate rating), not the usable energy rating. For units rated in amp-hours, kWh shall equal rated voltage
    times amp-hour rating divided by 1,000.
    b. Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies.
    c. Fifty gallons of lead-acid battery electrolyte shall be considered equivalent to 70 kWh.
    d. Covers nonelectrochemical technologies such as flywheel and thermal ESS.    		 For SI: 1 kilowatt hour = 3.6 megajoules.
    a. Energy capacity is the total energy capable of being stored (nameplate rating), not the usable energy rating. For units rated in amp-hours, kWh shall equal rated voltage
    times amp-hour rating divided by 1,000.
    b. Shall include vanadium, zinc-bromine, polysulfide-bromide and other flowing electrolyte-type technologies.
    c. Fifty gallons of lead-acid battery electrolyte shall be considered equivalent to 70 kWh.
    d. Covers nonelectrochemical technologies such as flywheel and thermal ESS.

    12-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    ENERGY SYSTEMS

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

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

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

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

    1. Location and layout diagram of the room or area in which the ESS is to be installed.
    2. Details on the hourly fire-resistance ratings of assemblies enclosing the ESS.
    3. The quantities and types of ESS to be installed.
    4. Manufacturer’s specifications, ratings and listings of each ESS.
  • CFC § 1206.13 Medium relevance — show source text

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

    SECTION 1207—ELECTRICAL ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS (ESS)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently asked questions

Do all utility‑owned ESS get exempted from the CFC ESS rules?

No. Only narrow categories are excluded or treated differently — for example, capacitor equipment for electric utilities is excluded under § 1207.1.1; other utility ESS (batteries, flow‑batteries, lithium‑ion systems) generally remain subject to Section 1207 unless they meet a specific exception. § 1207.1.1

When can communications battery rooms skip an operational permit?

Operational permits are not required for lead‑acid and Ni‑Cd battery systems that are under the exclusive control of a communications utility, comply with NFPA 76, and operate at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC per § 1207.1.4.1. § 1207.1.4.1

Are utility ESS plan submittals public record?

ESS owned/operated by electric utilities that are critical infrastructure (per NERC or other laws) are to be made available to the fire code official for viewing consistent with those governmental requirements — the code contemplates restricted access rather than public disclosure under § 1207.1.5.1. § 1207.1.5.1

If my telecom batteries are 60 VDC exactly, do the exceptions apply?

No — the communications exceptions specify they apply for systems operating at less than 60 VDC (and less than 50 VAC for AC). If your system equals or exceeds those voltages, Section 1207 requirements apply. § 1207.1.4.1

Can an AHJ still require additional documentation for a claimed exception?

Yes. The fire code official can require hazard analyses, documentation, or alternate measures (for example an FMEA or large‑scale fire testing) where the standard exceptions do not conclusively address a potential hazard. See § 1207.1.6. § 1207.1.6

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