CFC · California Fire Code

What construction documents and plan details must be submitted with an ESS permit?

For a homeowner: when applying for a fire-code permit for an energy storage system, you must supply clear plans showing where the batteries go, how the room is protected (fire‑rated walls/doors), product specs, how the system is controlled and ventilated, and plans for testing (commissioning) and safe removal — these are required by §1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The California Fire Code requires that an applicant submit a set of construction documents that show how an Energy Storage System (ESS) will be installed and protected. The controlling rule is § 1207.1.5: the permit application must include a location/layout, hourly fire‑resistance ratings, quantities and types, manufacturer specs and listings, controls and management descriptions, signage, details for fire/ventilation/thermal systems, structural/support and seismic restraint, and plans for commissioning and decommissioning among other items .

Provide clear, stamped plans that show where the ESS is, how it is built/contained, how it will be monitored and protected, and how it will be commissioned and taken out of service — that is what § 1207.1.5 requires.

Requirements in detail

Below I break § 1207.1.5 into decision‑relevant elements you must include with an ESS construction permit application. Each line references the controlling code paragraph.

Quick checklist table

Document element What to show / include on the plans Code reference
Location & layout diagram Plan view (room/area) showing ESS units, clearances, egress, nearby equipment and exposures § 1207.1.5 (1)
Fire‑resistance ratings (FRR) Hourly fire‑resistance ratings for assemblies that enclose the ESS (walls/ceilings/doors) — show rating values and assemblies § 1207.1.5 (2)
Quantities & types Total number and type of ESS technologies to be installed (battery chemistry / technology) § 1207.1.5 (3)
Manufacturer documentation Manufacturer’s specifications, electrical ratings, product listings and applicable certifications for each ESS product § 1207.1.5 (4)
Energy/Battery management Description of the energy (battery) management system (BMS), how it operates, setpoints, interlocks and alarms § 1207.1.5 (5)
Signage Location and content of required signage (room ID, hazards, no‑smoking, emergency contacts, etc.) § 1207.1.5 (6)
Detection / suppression / ventilation Details on fire suppression, smoke/fire detection, thermal management, ventilation, exhaust and deflagration venting systems (if provided) § 1207.1.5 (7)
Support & seismic restraint Support arrangement, mounting details and any required seismic restraint or anchorage § 1207.1.5 (8)
Commissioning plan A commissioning plan complying with § 1207.2.1 (tests, acceptance criteria, responsible parties) — include or reference the plan § 1207.1.5 (9); see § 1207.2.1
Decommissioning plan A decommissioning plan complying with § 1207.2.3 (how equipment will be safely removed/placed out of service) § 1207.1.5 (10); see § 1207.2.3
Fire safety & evacuation plan A fire safety and evacuation plan prepared in accordance with § 404 § 1207.1.5 (11); see § 404

Notes:

  • The code language enumerates the items above as the information that “shall be provided with the permit application.” Use the referenced paragraphs to structure your submittal documents and cover sheets. § 1207.1.5 .
  • Where the ESS is owned/operated by an electric utility and documents are considered critical infrastructure, the plans/specs shall be made available to the fire code official for viewing consistent with applicable laws (utilities applicability) § 1207.1.5.1 .

Supporting analyses and special studies

  • If the installation includes technologies not listed in Table 1207.1.3 or multiple ESS technologies in one fire area, or if you seek to increase allowable quantities, a hazard mitigation analysis (for example an FMEA) is required under § 1207.1.6. The analysis must address fault conditions identified in that section .
  • Provide any referenced shop drawings and manufacturer installation instructions as attachments; plan reviewers commonly require them to verify penetrations, supports and system integration (see general construction document practice in related codes) .

Exceptions & special cases

  • Utility‑owned ESS: Documents that are critical‑infrastructure may be handled differently — the fire code official must be allowed to view those documents consistent with governmental regulations rather than receive full copies — see § 1207.1.5.1 .
  • Mobile ESS (charging/storage/deployment): Construction and operation permits for mobile ESS must be accompanied by construction documents complying with § 1207.1.5 and additional deployment documents are required for operational permits under § 1207.10.4 (e.g., deployment location diagram, signage, fencing, temporary wiring, duration of deployment) .
  • If the AHJ (authority having jurisdiction) allows deferred submittals, some items may be listed as deferred — but that requires prior approval and the registered design professional must list deferred items per building/administration rules (see Building Code practice referenced in plan submission sections) .

If you need specific content required by § 1207.2.1, § 1207.2.3, or § 404 the current search results show those sections are referenced but do not include the full text of those sections here; consult those sections directly for acceptance criteria and required elements. I was able to retrieve the requirement to include the commissioning and decommissioning plans, but not the full text of those sections from the files provided.

Common mistakes

  • Submitting only an equipment cut‑sheet and not a site/room layout — the code requires a location and layout diagram (item 1) .
  • Omitting the hourly fire‑resistance rating details for enclosures (item 2) or leaving FRR blank — reviewers expect specific hourly values and assembly descriptions per § 1207.1.5 (2) .
  • Failing to include manufacturer listings/ratings for every ESS product — each product must have specs and listings shown (item 4) .
  • Not including BMS description and alarm/interlock behavior — reviewers need the operational description to assess safety systems (item 5) .
  • Forgetting a commissioning plan (item 9) or a decommissioning plan (item 10); these are explicit submittal items and are commonly enforced .
  • Assuming the fire official will accept proprietary “critical infrastructure” redactions without prior discussion — follow § 1207.1.5.1 for utility documents and coordinate early with the AHJ .
  • Missing a required hazard mitigation analysis (FMEA) when using an unlisted technology or multiple technologies in one fire area — see § 1207.1.6 .

Worked example — applying the rule

Scenario: An owner proposes an indoor ESS room housing a lithium‑ion rack system (nameplate capacity 100 kWh) in a commercial building.

What to submit (mapped to § 1207.1.5):

  1. Provide a scaled plan of the ESS room showing rack locations, access doors, clearances and adjacent rooms (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (1)) .
  2. On the assembly details sheet list the hourly fire‑resistance rating for the room separation, door ratings and ceiling assembly (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (2)) . Note: do not assume a value — show the rating you designed for and cite supporting data.
  3. Show total quantity and type: 1 system, lithium‑ion, 100 kWh (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (3)). For context Table 1207.1.3 lists the lithium‑ion threshold as 20 kWh (this project is above that threshold and thus requires the full submittal) .
  4. Attach manufacturer spec sheets, UL listing/certificates, product installation manuals for the rack and in‑rack electronics (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (4)) .
  5. Provide a BMS description with alarm thresholds, communications, and fail‑safe actions (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (5)) .
  6. Identify required signage locations on the plan (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (6)) .
  7. Show proposed detection (smoke, thermal), ventilation/thermal management strategy, and fire suppression approach (if any) — include control schematics and setpoints (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (7)) .
  8. Provide rack anchorage details, support framing and anchor calculations and seismic restraint where applicable (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (8)) .
  9. Include a commissioning plan that references § 1207.2.1 (tests, acceptance criteria, responsible parties) — attach test logs and acceptance checklists (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (9)) .
  10. Include a decommissioning plan referencing § 1207.2.3 describing safe disconnect, removal, labeling and disposal steps (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (10)) .
  11. Attach a fire safety & evacuation plan per § 404 identifying occupant notification and response procedures (satisfies § 1207.1.5 (11)) .

If any technology is not specifically listed in Table 1207.1.3 or multiple technologies are proposed in one room, prepare an FMEA/hazard mitigation analysis per § 1207.1.6 and include it with the submittal .

Related provisions (quick references)

  • § 1207.1.5 — Required construction documents for ESS (primary list)
  • § 1207.1.5.1 — Utilities applicability / critical infrastructure handling of plans
  • § 1207.1.6 — Hazard mitigation analysis (FMEA) triggers and scope
  • § 1207.2.1 — Commissioning plan requirements (commissioning plan is required by § 1207.1.5) — consult the code for full text
  • § 1207.2.3 — Decommissioning plan requirements (decommissioning plan is required by § 1207.1.5) — consult the code for full text
  • § 1207.10.4 — Construction documents for mobile ESS (charging/storage) reference back to § 1207.1.5
  • Table 1207.1.3 — ESS threshold quantities by technology (e.g., lithium‑ion 20 kWh) — important to determine whether full submittal is required

Code references

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

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

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

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    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 § 106.2.5 High relevance — show source text

    The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions that provide supporting documentation that the proposed penetration and opening details described in the construction documents maintain the wind and weather resistance of the exterior wall envelope. The supporting documentation shall fully describe the exterior wall system that was tested, where applicable, as well as the test procedure used.

    [A] 106.2.5 Exterior balconies and elevated walking surfaces. Where the scope of work involves balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, the construction documents shall include details for all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system. The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    [A] 106.2.6 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades, and the proposed finished grades; and it shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration, repair or change of occupancy.

    [A] 106.3 Examination of documents. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined the submittal documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction or occupancy indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

    [A] 106.3.1 Approval of construction documents. Where the code official issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved in writing or by stamp as “Reviewed for Code Compliance.” One set of construction documents so reviewed shall be retained by the code official. The other set shall be returned to the applicant, shall be kept at the site of work, and shall be open to inspection by the code official or a duly authorized representative.

    [A] 106.3.2 Previous approval. This code shall not require changes in the construction documents, construction or designated occupancy of a structure for which a lawful permit has been issued and the construction of which has been pursued in good faith within 180 days after the effective date of this code and has not been abandoned.

    [A] 106.3.3 Phased approval. The code official is authorized to issue a permit for the construction of foundations or any other part of a building before the construction documents for the whole building or structure have been submitted, provided that adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit for the foundation or other parts of a building shall proceed at the holder’s own risk with the building operation and without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.

    [A] 106.3.4 Deferred submittals. Deferral of any submittal items shall have the prior approval of the code official. The registered design professional in responsible charge shall list the deferred submittals on the construction documents for review by the code official.

    Submittal documents for deferred submittal items shall be submitted to the registered design professional in responsible charge who shall review them and forward them to the code official with a notation indicating that the deferred submittal docu

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 1-27

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    ADMINISTRATION

  • CFC § 1207.10.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Mobile ESS used to temporarily provide power to 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. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.10.2 Deployment. For the purpose of Section 1207.10, deployment covers operations where mobile ESS are located at a site other than the charging and storage site and are being used to provide power.

    Exception: Mobile ESS used to temporarily provide power to 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. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.10.3 Permits. Construction and operational permits shall be provided for charging and storage of mobile ESS and operational permits shall be provided for deployment of mobile ESS as required by Section 1207.1.4.

    1207.10.4 Construction documents. Construction documents complying with Section 1207.1.5 shall be provided with the construction permit application for mobile ESS charging and storage locations.

    1207.10.4.1 Deployment documents. The following information shall be provided with the operation permit applications for mobile ESS deployments:

    1. Relevant information for the mobile ESS equipment and protection measures in the construction documents required by Section 1207.1.5.

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    ENERGY SYSTEMS

    1. Location and layout diagram of the area in which the mobile ESS is to be deployed, including a scale diagram of all nearby exposures.

    2. Location and content of signage, including no smoking signs.

    3. Description of fencing to be provided around the ESS, including locking methods.

    4. Details on fire suppression, smoke and automatic fire detection, system monitoring, thermal management, exhaust ventilation and explosion control, if provided.

    5. For deployment, the intended duration of operation, including anticipated connection and disconnection times and dates.

    6. Location and description of local staging stops during transit to the deployment site. See Section 1207.10.7.5.

    7. Description of the temporary wiring, including connection methods, conductor type and size, and circuit overcurrent protection to be provided.

    8. Description of how fire suppression system connections to water supplies or extinguishing agents are to be provided.

    9. Contact information for personnel who are responsible for maintaining and servicing the equipment, and responding to emergencies as required by Section 1207.1.8.1. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.10.5 Approved locations. Locations where mobile ESS are charged, stored and deployed shall be restricted to the locations established on the construction and operational permits. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)

    1207.10.6 Charging and storage. Installations where mobile ESS are charged and stored shall be treated as permanent ESS indoor or outdoor installations, and shall comply with the following sections, as applicable:

    1. Indoor charging and storage shall comply with Section 1207.7.
    2. Outdoor charging and storage shall comply with Section 1207.8.
    3. Charging and storage on rooftops and in open parking garages shall comply with Section 1207.9.
  • CFC § 104.3.1. High relevance — show source text

    DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    (2) Describe the land upon which the proposed work is to be done by legal description, street address, or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building or work.

    (3) Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.

    (4) Be accompanied by construction documents and other data in accordance with Section 104.3.1.

    (5) Be signed by the permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require evidence to indicate such authority.

    (6) Give such other data and information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    104.3.1 Construction Documents. Construction documents, engineering calculations, diagrams, and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, with each application for a permit. The construction documents, computations, and specifications shall be prepared by, and the mechanical system designed by, a registered design professional. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale with clarity to identify that the intended work to be performed is in accordance with the code.

    Exception: The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to waive the submission of construction documents, calculations, or other data where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with the code.

    104.3.2 Plan Review Fees. Where a plan or other data is required to be submitted in accordance with Section 104.3.1, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting construction documents for review.

    The plan review fees for mechanical system work shall be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction.

    The plan review fees specified in this subsection are separate fees from the permit fees specified in Section 104.5.

    Where plans are incomplete or changed so as to require additional review, a fee shall be charged at the rate shown in Table 104.5.

    104.3.3 Time Limitation of Application. Applications for which no permit is issued within 180 days following the date of application shall expire by limitation, plans and other data submitted for review thereafter, shall be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to extend the time for action by the applicant for a period not to exceed 180 days upon request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action from being taken. No application shall be extended more than once. In order to renew action on an application

    after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee.

    104.4 Permit Issuance. The application, construction documents, and other data filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Such plans shall be permitted to be reviewed by other departments of this jurisdiction to verify compliance with applicable laws under their jurisdiction. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work described in an application for permit and the plans, specifications, and other data filed therewith are in accordance with the requirements of the code and other pertinent laws and ordinances and that the fees specified in Section 104.5 have been paid, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall issue a permit therefore to the applicant.

  • CFC § 106.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 106.2.1 Construction documents. Construction documents shall be dimensioned and drawn on suitable material. Electronic media documents are permitted to be submitted where approved by the code official. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the code official. The work areas shall be shown.

    [A] 106.2.2 Fire protection system(s) shop drawings. Shop drawings for the fire protection system(s) shall be submitted to indicate compliance with this code and the construction documents and shall be approved prior to the start of system installation. Shop drawings shall contain information as required by the referenced installation standards in Chapter 9 of the California Build- ing Code .

    [A] 106.2.3 Means of egress. The construction documents for Alterations—Level 2, Alterations—Level 3, additions and changes of occupancy shall show in sufficient detail the location, construction, size and character of all portions of the means of egress in compliance with the provisions of this code. The construction documents shall designate the number of occupants to be accommodated in every work area of every floor and in all affected rooms and spaces.

    [A] 106.2.4 Exterior wall envelope. Construction documents for work affecting the exterior wall envelope shall describe the exterior wall envelope in sufficient detail to determine compliance with this code. The construction documents shall provide details of the exterior wall envelope as required, including windows, doors, flashing, intersections with dissimilar materials, corners, end details, control joints, intersections at roof, eaves or parapets, means of drainage, water-resistive barriers and details around openings.

    The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions that provide supporting documentation that the proposed penetration and opening details described in the construction documents maintain the wind and weather resistance of the exterior wall envelope. The supporting documentation shall fully describe the exterior wall system that was tested, where applicable, as well as the test procedure used.

    [A] 106.2.5 Exterior balconies and elevated walking surfaces. Where the scope of work involves balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, the construction documents shall include details for all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system. The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    [A] 106.2.6 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades, and the proposed finished grades; and it shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration, repair or change of occupancy.

    [A] 106.3 Examination of documents. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined the submittal documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction or occupancy indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

  • CFC § 107.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 107.2.1 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be dimensioned and drawn on suitable material. Electronic media documents are permitted to be submitted where approved by the building official. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the building official.

    [A] 107.2.2 Fire protection system shop drawings. Shop drawings for the fire protection systems shall be submitted to indicate conformance to this code and the construction documents and shall be approved prior to the start of system installation. Shop drawings shall contain all information as required by the referenced installation standards in Chapter 9.

    [A] 107.2.3 Means of egress. The construction documents shall show in sufficient detail the location, construction, size and character of all portions of the means of egress including the path of the exit discharge to the public way in compliance with the provisions of this code. In other than occupancies in Groups R-2, R-2.1 and R-3, the construction documents shall designate the number of occupants to be accommodated on every floor, and in all rooms and spaces.

    [A] 107.2.4 Exterior wall envelope. Construction documents for all buildings shall describe the exterior wall envelope in sufficient detail to determine compliance with this code. The construction documents shall provide details of the exterior wall envelope as required, including flashing, intersections with dissimilar materials, corners, end details, control joints, intersections at roof, eaves or parapets, means of drainage, water-resistive barrier and details around openings.

    The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions that provide supporting documentation that the proposed penetration and opening details described in the construction documents maintain the weather resistance of the exterior wall envelope. The supporting documentation shall fully describe the exterior wall system that was tested, where applicable, as well as the test procedure used.

    [A] 107.2.5 Exterior balconies and elevated walking surfaces. Where balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, the construction documents shall include details for all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system. The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    [A] 107.2.6 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades and the proposed finished grades and, as applicable, flood hazard areas, floodways, and design flood elevations; and it shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot. The building official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration or repair or where otherwise warranted.

    [A] 107.2.6.1 Design flood elevations. Where design flood elevations are not specified, they shall be established in accordance with Section 1612.3.1.

    [A] 107.2.7 Structural information. The construction documents shall provide the information specified in Section 1603.

    [A] 107.2.8 Relocatable buildings. Construction documents for relocatable buildings shall comply with Section 3113.

  • CFC § 1.2 High relevance — show source text

    garage. 8. Adequate details to evaluate fire-resistance-rated construction requirements, including data substantiating required ratings. 9. Details for plastics, insulation and safety glazing installation. 10. Details of required fire protection systems. 11. Material specifications demonstrating fire-resistance criteria.

    N104.1.2 Structural plans, specifications and engineering details. Where approval of the structural requirements of the replicable design is sought, the submittal documents shall include details for each wind region, seismic design category and climate zone for which approval is sought; and shall include the following:

    1. Signed and sealed structural design calculations that support the member sizes on the drawings.

    2. Design load criteria, including: frost depth, live loads, snow loads, wind loads, earthquake design date and other special loads.

    3. Details of foundations and superstructure.

    4. Provisions for special inspections.

    N104.1.3 Energy conservation details. Where approval of the energy conservation requirements of the replicable design is sought, the submittal documents shall include details for each climate zone for which approval is sought; and shall include the following:

    1. Climate zones for which approval is sought.
    2. Building envelope details.
    3. Building mechanical system details.
    4. Details of electrical power and lighting systems.
    5. Provisions for system commissioning.

    SECTION N105—REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF REPLICABLE DESIGN

    N105.1 General. Proposed replicable designs shall be reviewed by an approved agency. The review shall be applicable only to the replicable design features submitted in accordance with Section N104. The review shall determine compliance with this code and additional codes specified in Section N104.1.

    N105.2 Documentation. The results of the review shall be documented indicating compliance with the code requirements.

    N105.3 Deficiencies. Where the review of the submitted construction documents identifies elements where the design is deficient and will not comply with the applicable code requirements, the approved agency shall notify the proponent of the replicable design, in writing, of the specific areas of noncompliance and request correction.

    N105.4 Approval. Where the review of the submitted construction documents determines that the design is in compliance with the codes designated in Section N104.1, and where deficiencies identified in Section N105.3 have been corrected, the approved agency shall issue a summary report of Approved Replicable Design. The summary report shall include any limitations on the approved replicable design including, but not limited to, climate zones, wind regions and seismic design categories.

    SECTION N106—SITE-SPECIFIC APPLICATION OF APPROVED REPLICABLE DESIGN

    N106.1 General. Where site-specific application of a replicable design that has been approved under the provisions of Section N105 is sought, the construction documents submitted to the building official shall comply with this section.

    N106.2 Submittal documents. A summary description of the replicable design and related construction document shall be submitted. Construction documents shall be signed, sealed and dated by the registered design professional. A statement, signed, sealed and dated by the registered design professional, that the replicable design submitted for local review is the same as the replicable design reviewed by the approved agency shall be submitted.

    N106.2.1 Architectural plans and specifications. Architectural plans and specifications shall include the following:

    1. Construction documents for variations from the replicable design.
    2. Construction for portions that are not part of the replicable design.
    3. Documents for local requirements as identified by the building official.
    4. Construction documents detailing the foundation system.

    **SECTION N107—SITE-SPECIFIC REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF REPLICABLE DESIGN

  • CFC § 107.2.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 107.2.5 Exterior balconies and elevated walking surfaces. Where balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, the construction documents shall include details for all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system. The construction documents shall include manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    [A] 107.2.6 Site plan. The construction documents submitted with the application for permit shall be accompanied by a site plan showing to scale the size and location of new construction and existing structures on the site, distances from lot lines, the established street grades and the proposed finished grades and, as applicable, flood hazard areas, floodways, and design flood elevations; and it shall be drawn in accordance with an accurate boundary line survey. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall show construction to be demolished and the location and size of existing structures and construction that are to remain on the site or plot. The building official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration or repair or where otherwise warranted.

    [A] 107.2.6.1 Design flood elevations. Where design flood elevations are not specified, they shall be established in accordance with Section 1612.3.1.

    [A] 107.2.7 Structural information. The construction documents shall provide the information specified in Section 1603.

    [A] 107.2.8 Relocatable buildings. Construction documents for relocatable buildings shall comply with Section 3113.

    [A] 107.3 Examination of documents. The building official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying submittal documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

    [A] 107.3.1 Approval of construction documents. When the building official issues a permit, the construction documents shall be approved, in writing or by stamp, as “Reviewed for Code Compliance.” One set of construction documents so reviewed shall be retained by the building official. The other set shall be returned to the applicant, shall be kept at the site of work and shall be open to inspection by the building official or a duly authorized representative.

    [A] 107.3.2 Previous approvals. This code shall not require changes in the construction documents, construction or designated occupancy of a structure for which a lawful permit has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully authorized, and the construction of which has been pursued in good faith within 180 days after the effective date of this code and has not been abandoned.

    [A] 107.3.3 Phased approval. The building official is authorized to issue a permit for the construction of foundations or any other part of a building or structure before the construction documents for the whole building or structure have been submitted, provided that adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit for the foundation or other parts of a building or structure shall proceed at the holder’s own risk with the building operation and without assurance that a permit for the entire structure will be granted.

    [A] 107.3.4 Design professional in responsible charge. Where it is required that documents be prepared by a registered design professional, the building official shall be authorized to require the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to engage and desig

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  • CFC § 1207.1.3 High 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.

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    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 § 106.3 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 106.3 Site plan. In addition to the requirements for plans in the California Building Code, site plans shall include topography, width and percent of grade of access roads, landscape and vegetation details, locations of structures or building envelopes, existing or proposed overhead utilities, occupancy classification of buildings, types of ignition-resistant construction of buildings, structures and their appendages, roof classification of buildings and site water supply systems. The code official is authorized to waive or modify the requirement for a site plan where the application for permit is for alteration or repair or where otherwise warranted.

    [A] 106.4 Vegetation management compliance . Prior to the building permit final approval, the property shall be in compliance with the vegetation management requirements prescribed in Section 603, including California Public Resources Code 4291 or California Government Code Section 51182. Acceptable methods of compliance inspection and documentation shall be determined by the enforc- ing agency and shall be permitted to include any of the following: 1. Local, state or federal fire authority or designee authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements. 2. Enforcing agency.

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    3. Third-party inspection and certification authorized to enforce vegetation management requirements. 4. Property owner certification authorized by the enforcing agency.

    [A] 106.5 Fire protection plan. Where required by the code official pursuant to Section 602, a fire protection plan shall be prepared and shall be submitted to the code official for review and approved as a part of the plans required for a permit.

    [A] 106.6 Other data and substantiation. Where required by the code official, the plans and specifications shall include classification of fuel loading, fuel model light, medium or heavy, and substantiating data to verify classification of fire-smart vegetation.

    [A] 106.7 Vicinity plan. In addition to the requirements for site plans, plans shall include details regarding the vicinity within 300 feet (91 440 mm) of lot lines, including other structures, slope, vegetation, fuel breaks, water supply systems and access roads.

    [A] 106.8 Retention of plans. One set of approved plans, specifications and computations shall be retained by the code official for a period of not less than 180 days from date of completion of the permitted work or as required by state or local laws; and one set of approved plans and specifications shall be returned to the applicant, and said set shall be kept on the site of the building, use or work at all times during which the work authorized thereby is in progress. Refer to Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 and 19851 for permanent retention of plans.

    [A] 106.9 Examination of documents. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying construction documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances.

    [A] 106.10 Amended construction documents. Work shall be installed in accordance with the approved construction documents, and changes made during construction that are not in compliance with the approved documents shall be resubmitted for approval as an amended set of construction documents.

  • CFC § 105.6 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 105.6 Suspension or revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy shall be kept on the site of the work until the completion of the project.

    SECTION 106—FLOOR AND ROOF DESIGN LOADS

    [A] 106.1 Live loads posted. In commercial or industrial buildings, for each floor or portion thereof designed for live loads exceeding 50 psf (2.40 kN/m [2] ), such design live loads shall be conspicuously posted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent in that part of each story in which they apply, using durable signs. It shall be unlawful to remove or deface such notices. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] These posting requirements also apply to school and state-owned essential services buildings as regulated by DSA.

    106.1.1 Snow load posting. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Snow loads used in design shall be posted as for live loads.

    106.1.2 Snow load posting. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] When design snow loads at exterior balconies, decks and other elevated walking surfaces exceed 50 psf, the design snow loads shall be posted as for live loads. When design roof (not ground) snow loads exceed 20 psf, the roof design snow loads for each roof level of the building shall similarly be conspicuously posted with signs stating the maxi- mum design roof snow loads.

    [A] 106.2 Issuance of certificate of occupancy. A certificate of occupancy required by Section 111 shall not be issued until the floor load signs, required by Section 106.1, have been installed.

    [A] 106.3 Restrictions on loading. It shall be unlawful to place, or cause or permit to be placed, on any floor or roof of a building, structure or portion thereof, a load greater than is permitted by this code.

    SECTION 107—CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    [A] 107.1 General. Submittal documents consisting of construction documents, statement of special inspections, geotechnical report and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where allowed by the building official, with each

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    permit application. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where special conditions exist, the building official is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.

    Exception: The building official is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and other data not required to be prepared by a registered design professional if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that review of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with this code.

    [A] 107.2 Construction documents. Construction documents shall be in accordance with Sections 107.2.1 through 107.2.8.

  • CFC § 105.6 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 105.6 Suspension or revocation. The code official is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy shall be kept on the site of the work until the completion of the project.

    SECTION 106—CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    [A] 106.1 General. Submittal documents consisting of construction documents, special inspection and structural observation programs, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where allowed by the code official, with each application for a permit. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered

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    design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where special conditions exist, the code official is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.

    Exception: The code official is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and other data not required to be prepared by a registered design professional if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with this code.

    [A] 106.2 Construction documents. Construction documents shall be in accordance with Sections 106.2.1 through 106.2.6.

    [A] 106.2.1 Construction documents. Construction documents shall be dimensioned and drawn on suitable material. Electronic media documents are permitted to be submitted where approved by the code official. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the code official. The work areas shall be shown.

    [A] 106.2.2 Fire protection system(s) shop drawings. Shop drawings for the fire protection system(s) shall be submitted to indicate compliance with this code and the construction documents and shall be approved prior to the start of system installation. Shop drawings shall contain information as required by the referenced installation standards in Chapter 9 of the California Build- ing Code .

    [A] 106.2.3 Means of egress. The construction documents for Alterations—Level 2, Alterations—Level 3, additions and changes of occupancy shall show in sufficient detail the location, construction, size and character of all portions of the means of egress in compliance with the provisions of this code. The construction documents shall designate the number of occupants to be accommodated in every work area of every floor and in all affected rooms and spaces.

    [A] 106.2.4 Exterior wall envelope. Construction documents for work affecting the exterior wall envelope shall describe the exterior wall envelope in sufficient detail to determine compliance with this code. The construction documents shall provide details of the exterior wall envelope as required, including windows, doors, flashing, intersections with dissimilar materials, corners, end details, control joints, intersections at roof, eaves or parapets, means of drainage, water-resistive barriers and details around openings.

Frequently asked questions

What is the single most important thing to include with an ESS permit submittal?

Provide a clear, stamped set of plans that includes a scaled location/layout diagram and the hourly fire‑resistance ratings for the ESS enclosure as required in § 1207.1.5 (1)–(2).

Do I always need a commissioning and decommissioning plan?

Yes. § 1207.1.5 explicitly requires a commissioning plan complying with § 1207.2.1 and a decommissioning plan complying with § 1207.2.3; include those documents or refer to them in your submittal. The specific contents of those sections should be consulted for details.

When is an FMEA or hazard mitigation analysis required?

Prepare an FMEA or other approved hazard mitigation analysis when the ESS technology is not listed in Table 1207.1.3, when more than one ESS technology is installed in a single fire area, when it is used to justify increased quantities, or when the fire code official requires one per § 1207.1.6.

Can utility ESS submittals be withheld from plan reviewers?

Utility ESS documents considered critical infrastructure must still be made available to the fire code official for viewing, but handling is subject to applicable governmental rules — see § 1207.1.5.1. Coordinate with your AHJ early.

Are manufacturer cut‑sheets sufficient for the “manufacturer’s specifications” requirement?

No. Manufacturer cut‑sheets are required but the code also expects a complete set of plans showing integration, controls (BMS), FRR assemblies, and systems details as listed in § 1207.1.5. Provide cut‑sheets plus integration/installation details.

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California Fire Code