CFC · California Fire Code
Inspection, testing and maintenance requirements for existing fire protection systems
If your building has required fire protection systems (sprinklers, alarms, kitchen hood suppression, etc.), the California Fire Code requires they be kept operable, inspected and tested to the referenced NFPA and Title 19 schedules, serviced by qualified/licensed personnel when required, with on‑site records retained (generally five years); integrated systems must be tested together and outages require immediate notification or a fire watch.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
All required fire protection and life‑safety systems must be maintained in an operable condition at all times per § 901.6 of the California Fire Code (CFC). Inspection, testing and maintenance must follow the referenced standards in Table 901.6.1 and the State regulations in Title 19, Division 1; when systems are interconnected, integrated testing is required to verify the intended response of all subordinate systems per § 901.6.2. For automatic fire‑extinguishing systems (other than sprinklers) the State’s specific licensing, frequency and procedural requirements in § 904.2 and Title 19 apply (including required semi‑annual service for engineered and pre‑engineered systems).
The single most important rule: keep required fire protection systems operable and documented — inspect, test and maintain them to the referenced NFPA/Title 19 schedules, and retain the records on‑site.
Requirements in detail
Operable condition and owner responsibility
- The building owner (or authorized occupant) is responsible to maintain required systems in an operable condition at all times; when protective qualities are disrupted immediate corrective action is required to restore the system to normal operation. This is the mandate in § 901.6.
- If a required system is taken out of service, the fire department and fire code official must be notified immediately and an approved fire watch or evacuation may be required until service is restored (see § 901.7).
Referenced standards and scope (Table)
The CFC points inspection/testing/maintenance to specific standards. Key decision dimensions are summarized below.
| System / topic | Required standard or reference | Typical frequency / threshold | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water‑based fire protection systems (sprinklers, standpipes) | NFPA 25 (as amended in CA) and Title 19, Div. 1 | Per NFPA 25 schedules (see Title 19) | § 901.6.1 |
| Fire alarm systems | NFPA 72 | Per NFPA 72 schedules; sensitivity checks & calibration per § 907.8 | § 901.6.1 and § 907.8 |
| Portable fire extinguishers | CCR Title 19, Div. 1, Ch. 3 | Visual inspections and other schedules per Title 19 | Table 901.6.1 / Title 19 |
| Engineered & pre‑engineered fixed extinguishing systems | Manufacturer instructions, Title 19 and CFC | At least semi‑annually; also immediately after activation | § 904(a)(2) and § 904.7 |
| Clean‑agent, CO2, dry/wet chemical, water mist, hybrid, aerosol, etc. | Applicable NFPA standards (NFPA 12, 12A, 17, 17A, 750, 2001, 2010, 770) | Per each standard and Title 19 / manufacturer | Table 901.6.1 / § 904.12–904.13 |
| Integrated systems testing | NFPA 4 (for high‑rise and smoke control integration) | Prior to certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years (unless plan specifies otherwise) | § 901.6.2 / § 901.6.2.1–.2 |
Notes:
- The CFC explicitly defers to the referenced standards in Table 901.6.1 and to the State’s Title 19 requirements for many systems; follow both the CFC section numbers and the Title 19 chapters cited. § 901.6.1 frames the standards list.
- Where two or more systems are interconnected, integrated testing must verify responses of subordinate systems during required testing of the initiating system. See § 901.6.2.
Records and reporting
- Records of inspections, tests and maintenance must be maintained on the premises for five years after the next required inspection/test for systems covered by Title 19; CFC § 901.6.3 requires records in accordance with Section 110.3 and Title 19 carries the five‑year retention rule. Written reports of testing/maintenance must be provided to the building owner and local fire authority at completion of the work.
- Initial records should include installer name, component types and manufacturers, locations and counts, and manufacturer O&M manuals; these must be retained for the life of the installation per § 901.6.3.1.
Personnel, licensing and contractor responsibilities (904.2)
- Testing and maintenance of automatic fire‑extinguishing systems subject to Health & Safety Code §13195 must be performed by persons licensed under H&S §13196.5, unless a written waiver applies (State Fire Marshal exceptions exist). § 904.2(a) and related subsections set the licensing rule and exceptions. The State Fire Marshal may waive licensing for certain fire departments or special circumstances.
- Service personnel for automatic extinguishing systems (other than sprinklers) must have a valid certificate from an approved agency for the system type they service (§ 904.1.1).
- The licensee (service contractor) must ensure capability to restore any fire alarm component before activating it and must consult building management to avoid unnecessary disturbance during testing/maintenance (§ 904.2(g), (h)). Contact the local AHJ if required by the AHJ before testing (§ 904.2(i)).
Exceptions & special cases
- Systems that cannot be functionally tested/maintained per Title 19 may be tested/maintained as directed by the State Fire Marshal; a written waiver is possible when a licensee demonstrates inability to comply with Chapter 5 procedures (§ 904.2(b) exceptions).
- Engineered or pre‑engineered systems have specific requirements: they must follow Title 19 §904(a)(2), the manufacturer’s approved instructions on file with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and applicable CFC standards (§ 904.7(a)–(c)). Semi‑annual frequency is explicit for these systems.
- The CFC states the intent is to cover systems “as originally designed, installed and approved by the AHJ” and is not intended to force upgrading to current standards; this matters when older systems cannot meet modern retrofit standards (§ 904.2(b)(A)).
Common mistakes
- Treating CFC alone as sufficient: Many system schedules are in Title 19 or the applicable NFPA standard — inspection/test/maintenance must follow those referenced documents as required by § 901.6.1 and § 904.1/904.7. Missing the Title 19 linkage is a frequent error.
- Not keeping records on‑site or discarding older logs: Title 19 requires retention on the premises for five years after the next required inspection/test, and initial records for the life of the installation per § 901.6.3 / § 901.6.3.1.
- Failing to perform integrated testing: When systems interconnect (fire alarm, smoke control, sprinklers), testing only one subsystem without verifying the integrated response violates § 901.6.2.
- Using unlicensed personnel for required Title 19 work: automatic fire‑extinguishing system testing/maintenance must be performed by licensed persons unless a waiver applies (§ 904.2(a)).
- Not consulting building management or local AHJ before disruptive tests: Title 19 and § 904.2(h)/(i) require consultation/notification as applicable.
Worked example — commercial kitchen hood system (concrete scenario)
Scenario: A 3‑story restaurant building has a commercial Type I hood protecting cooking appliances. The automatic wet‑chemical kitchen hood extinguishing system (pre‑engineered) was installed in 2012 and activates a tied fire alarm signal.
Steps and numbers applied:
- Frequency: Because it’s a pre‑engineered fixed extinguishing system, service must be performed at least semi‑annually and immediately after any system activation per Title 19 / § 904(a)(2). That means scheduling service every 6 months and again after any discharge.
- Personnel: Use a contractor certified for that type of system (Title 19 §904.1.1 / § 904.2(a) licensing applies). Verify their certificate before work.
- Integrated test: When servicing the extinguishing system you must verify the tied fire alarm components and ensure the alarm is restorable prior to activation (CFC § 901.6.2 and Title 19 §904.2(g)). Test the manual pull, automatic detection, alarm signal to the fire alarm control panel, and the hood system’s fuel shutoff interlock.
- Records: Place the service tag and file the written report on the premises; retain records for five years after the next required test, and include manufacturer O&M and contractor name per § 901.6.3.1 and Title 19.
- If the system must be shut down for service that disables occupant protection, notify the fire code official and implement an approved fire watch until restored (see § 901.7).
Related provisions
- § 901.6 — Inspection, testing and maintenance; referenced standards and integrated testing requirements.
- § 901.6.1 — Table of referenced standards for specific systems (Table 901.6.1).
- § 901.6.2 / 901.6.2.1 / 901.6.2.2 — Integrated testing and high‑rise / smoke control details (NFPA 4 reference).
- § 901.6.3 / 901.6.3.1 — Records and initial records content.
- § 901.7 — Systems out of service; fire watch and notification.
- § 903.5 — Sprinkler inspection, testing and maintenance reference to Section 901.
- § 904.1 / § 904.1.1 / § 904.2 — Alternate automatic fire‑extinguishing systems: general, personnel certification, permitted uses, licensing, frequencies and exceptions.
- Title 19, Division 1 (California Code of Regulations) — Specific frequencies, retention periods and procedures for many systems (as referenced throughout Chapter 9).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 904.2 High relevance — show source text
(A) The intent of this section is to cover automatic fire extinguishing systems as originally designed, installed and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. It is not, however, intended to require that such systems be upgraded to current adopted standards.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(h)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(h) At the time of testing and maintenance, building management shall be consulted to avoid unnecessary disturbance of normal building operation.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(i)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(i) The licensee shall contact the local fire authority having jurisdiction prior to testing and maintenance of a system when required by the local fire authority having jurisdiction to do so.
901.6.1 Standards. Fire protection systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the referenced standards listed in Table 901.6.1 and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapters 3 and 5.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.1(a)] Inspection Requirements.
(a) A license shall not be required to perform inspections. Inspections may be conducted by any person designated by the building owner or occupant who has developed competence through training and experience.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(g)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(g) Prior to activating any fire alarm component of an automatic fire extinguishing system, the licensee shall ensure that the licensee is capable of restoring the fire alarm system.
TABLE 901.6.1—FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS Col2 SYSTEM STANDARD Portable fire extinguishers California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3 Carbon dioxide fire-extinguishing systems NFPA 12 Halon 1301 fire-extinguishing systems NFPA 12A Dry-chemical extinguishing systems NFPA 17 Wet-chemical extinguishing systems NFPA 17A Water-based fire protection systems California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 Fire alarm systems NFPA 72 Fire dampers NFPA 80 Smoke dampers NFPA 105 Smoke and heat vents NFPA 204 Water-mist systems NFPA 750 Clean-agent extinguishing systems NFPA 2001 Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems NFPA 2010 901.6.2 Integrated testing. Where two or more fire protection or life safety systems are interconnected, the intended response of subordinate fire protection and life safety systems shall be verified when required testing of the initiating system is conducted. In addition, integrated testing shall be performed in accordance with Sections 901.6.2.1 and 901.6.2.2.
CFC § 901.5.1 High relevance — show source text
901.5.1 Occupancy. It shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the required fire protection and life safety systems have been tested and approved.
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire protection and life safety systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Nonrequired fire protection and life safety systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed in accordance with Section 901.8.
All fire alarm systems, fire detection systems, automatic sprinkler or extinguishing systems, communication systems, and all other equipment, material or systems required by these regulations shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with this code and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1. Upon disruption or diminishment of the fire protective qualities of such equipment, material or systems, immediate action shall be instituted to affect a reestablishment of such equipment, material or systems to their original normal and operational condition.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1.14] Maintenance.
Every fire alarm system or device, sprinkler system, fire extinguisher, fire hose, fire-resistive assembly or any other fire safety assembly, device, material or equipment installed and retained in service in any building or structure subject to California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1 regulations and with their intended use.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.24] Maintenance of Equipment.
All fire alarm systems, fire detection systems, automatic sprinkler or extinguishing systems, communication systems, and all other equip- ment, material or systems required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times. Upon disruption or diminishment of the fire protective qualities of such equipment, material or systems, immediate action shall be instituted to affect a reestablishment of such equipment material or systems to their original normal and operational condition.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(a) All automatic fire extinguishing systems, including systems installed as an alternate to other building requirements, shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the following frequencies. Local authorities may require more frequent inspec- tion, testing and maintenance and additional procedures.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)(1)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(1) Water-based fire protection systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the frequencies required by NFPA 25 (2011 edition) including Annexes A, B, C, D and G as amended by the State of California. (Published as NFPA 25, 2013 Califor- nia Edition.)
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(b)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(b) When proof of the installation date of standpipe systems or automatic fire sprinkler systems cannot be furnished, such systems shall receive initial testing and maintenance by July 1, 1985.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(a)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
CFC § 901.6.2.1 High relevance — show source text
901.6.2.1 High-rise buildings. For high-rise buildings, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4. If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced.
901.6.2.2 Smoke control systems. Where a fire alarm system is integrated with a smoke control system as outlined in Section 909, integrated testing shall comply with NFPA 4, with an integrated test performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occu
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pancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless otherwise specified by an integrated system test plan prepared in accordance with NFPA 4. If an equipment failure is detected during integrated testing, a repeat of the integrated test shall not be required, except as necessary to verify operation of fire protection or life safety functions that are initiated by equipment that was repaired or replaced.
901.6.3 Records. Records of all system inspections, tests and maintenance shall be maintained in accordance with Section 110.3.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.1(b)] Inspection Requirements.
(b) Records of all inspections shall be retained on the premises by the building or system owner for a period of five years after the next required inspection.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(c)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(c) Records of all testing and maintenance shall be retained on the premises by the building or system owner for a period of five years after the next required test or maintenance.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(j)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(j) It is the responsibility of the contractor, company or licensee to provide a written report of the test and maintenance results to the building owner and the local fire authority having jurisdiction at the completion of the testing and maintenance.
901.6.3.1 Records information. Initial records shall include the name of the installation contractor, type of components installed, manufacturer of the components, location and number of components installed per floor. Records shall include the manufacturers’ operation and maintenance instruction manuals. Such records shall be maintained for the life of the installation.
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall be either evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shutdown until the fire protection system has been returned to service.
Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with not less than one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires.
Exception: Facilities with an approved notification and impairment management program. The notification and impairment program for water-based fire protection systems shall comply with California NFPA 25.
CFC § 904.2 High relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(c)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(c) Records of all testing and maintenance shall be retained on the premises by the building or system owner for a period of five years after the next required test or maintenance.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(j)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(j) It is the responsibility of the contractor, company or licensee to provide a written report of the test and maintenance results to the building owner and the local fire authority having jurisdiction at the completion of the testing and maintenance.
901.6.3.1 Records information. Initial records shall include the name of the installation contractor, type of components installed, manufacturer of the components, location and number of components installed per floor. Records shall include the manufacturers’ operation and maintenance instruction manuals. Such records shall be maintained for the life of the installation.
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall be either evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shutdown until the fire protection system has been returned to service.
Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with not less than one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires.
Exception: Facilities with an approved notification and impairment management program. The notification and impairment program for water-based fire protection systems shall comply with California NFPA 25.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.1(c)] Inspection Requirements.
(c) The owner or occupant shall promptly correct or repair deficiencies, damaged parts or impairments found while performing the inspection, test and maintenance requirements of this standard. Recalled products shall be replaced or remedied. Such replacement or remedial product shall be installed in accordance with the listing requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions and the appropri- ate NFPA installation standards. A recalled product is a product subject to a statute or administrative regulation specifically requiring the manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer of a product, or any combination of such entities, to recall the product, or a product voluntarily recalled by a combination of such entities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(d)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(d) The building or system owner shall ensure immediate correction of any deficiencies noted during the service. A tag or label shall be affixed to a system only after all deficiencies have been corrected. The owner or occupant shall promptly correct or repair deficien- cies, damaged parts or impairments found while performing the inspection, test and maintenance requirements of this standard. Recalled products shall be replaced or remedied. Such replacement or remedial product shall be installed in accordance with the list- ing requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions and the appropriate NFPA installation standards. A recalled product is a product subject to a statute or administrative regulation specifically requiring the manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer of a product, or any combination of such entities, to recall the product, or a product voluntarily recalled by a combination of such entities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(e)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
CFC § 904.7 High relevance — show source text
(2) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained at least semi-annually, and immediately after a system activation.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(c)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(c) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems, regardless of installation date, shall be inspected, tested and main- tained within the time periods specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2) above.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.7(a) through (c)] Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Requirements for Engineered and Pre-engineered Fixed Extinguishing Systems.
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance shall be performed in accordance with:
(a) California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2),
(b) the manufacturer’s written instructions, which are approved and on file with the Office of the State Fire Marshal; and
(c) the applicable standards adopted in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, (California Fire Code).
904.1.1 Certification of service personnel for fire-extinguishing equipment. Service personnel providing or conducting maintenance on automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall possess a valid certificate issued by an approved governmental agency, or other approved organization for the type of system and work performed.
904.2 Where permitted. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official.
904.2.1 Restriction on using automatic sprinkler system exceptions or reductions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be considered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions allowed for automatic sprinkler systems or by other requirements of this code.
904.2.2 Commercial hood and duct systems. Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system required by Section 606 to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code.
904.3 Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section.
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904.3.1 Electrical wiring. Electrical wiring shall be in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
904.3.2 Actuation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be automatically actuated and provided with a manual means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.14.1. Where more than one hazard could be simultaneously involved in fire due to their proximity, all hazards shall be protected by a single system designed to protect all hazards that could become involved.
Exception: Multiple systems shall be permitted to be installed if they are designed to operate simultaneously.
904.3.3 System interlocking. Automatic equipment interlocks with fuel shutoffs, ventilation controls, door closers, window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents and other features necessary for proper operation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard.
CFC § 904.2 High relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(a) All automatic fire extinguishing systems, including systems installed as an alternate to other building requirements, shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the following frequencies. Local authorities may require more frequent inspec- tion, testing and maintenance and additional procedures.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)(1)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(1) Water-based fire protection systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the frequencies required by NFPA 25 (2011 edition) including Annexes A, B, C, D and G as amended by the State of California. (Published as NFPA 25, 2013 Califor- nia Edition.)
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(b)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(b) When proof of the installation date of standpipe systems or automatic fire sprinkler systems cannot be furnished, such systems shall receive initial testing and maintenance by July 1, 1985.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(a)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(a) All testing and maintenance on automatic fire extinguishing systems in accordance with Health & Safety Code Section 13195 shall be performed by those licensed in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 13196.5.
Exceptions:
(1) The State Fire Marshal may waive, in writing, licensing of fire departments which conduct fire sprinkler and standpipe system testing and maintenance.
(2) Service on fire alarm systems and industrial systems as specified in Health and Safety Code Sections 13196.5(b) and (c) may be conducted without a license.
(3) Testing and maintenance on automatic fire extinguishing systems exempted in writing by the State Fire Marshal, when the building owner or occupant has the staff and equipment to conduct testing and maintenance.
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[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(b)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(b) Any testing and maintenance of automatic fire extinguishing systems shall be performed in accordance with these requirements.
Exceptions:
(1) The State Fire Marshal may waive, in writing, the requirement that testing and maintenance be performed in accordance with these requirements when a licensee can demonstrate that a system cannot functionally be tested and maintained in accor- dance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.
(2) If at any time a licensee encounters a specialized or modified system which cannot be tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5, the licensee shall contact the State Fire Marshal and test and maintain the system as directed.
(A) The intent of this section is to cover automatic fire extinguishing systems as originally designed, installed and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. It is not, however, intended to require that such systems be upgraded to current adopted standards.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(h)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
CFC § 904.11.2.1 High relevance — show source text
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
904.11.2.1 Monitoring. Monitoring shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.2.
904.11.2.2 Alarms. Alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.3.
904.11.2.3 Floor control valves. Floor control valves shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.9.
904.11.3 Testing and maintenance. Automatic water mist systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.
904.12 Hybrid fire-extinguishing systems. Hybrid fire-extinguishing systems shall be designed, installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 770. Records of inspection and testing shall be maintained.
904.13 Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems. Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 2010 and their listing.
Such devices and appurtenances shall be listed and installed in compliance with manufacturer’s instructions.
904.13.1 Maintenance. Not less than semiannually, an inspection shall be conducted by a trained person to assess whether the system is in working order. Not less than annually, a certified fire suppression contractor having knowledge of and training in the installation, operation and maintenance of the specific fire-extinguishing system shall inspect, test, service and maintain such system in accordance with this section and the manufacturer’s specifications and servicing manuals. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
904.14 Commercial cooking systems. Commercial cooking equipment that produce grease laden vapors shall be provided with a Type I Hood, in accordance with the California Mechanical Code, and an automatic fire extinguishing system that is listed and labeled for its intended use as follows:
1. Wet chemical extinguishing system, complying with UL 300.
2. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems.
3. Automatic fire sprinkler systems.
All existing dry chemical and wet chemical extinguishing systems shall comply with UL 300.
Exception: Public school kitchens, without deep-fat fryers, shall be upgraded to a UL 300 compliant system during state-funded modernization projects that are under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect.
All systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code, appropriate adopted standards, their listing and the manufacturers’ installation instructions.
Exception: Factory-built commercial cooking recirculating systems that are tested in accordance with UL 710B and listed, labeled and installed in accordance with Section 304.1 of the California Mechanical Code .
904.14.1 Manual system operation. A manual actuation device shall be located at or near a means of egress from the cooking area not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) from the kitchen exhaust system. The manual actuation device shall be installed not more than 48 inches (1200 mm) nor less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the floor and shall clearly identify the hazard protected. The manual actuation shall require a maximum force of 40 pounds (178 N) and a maximum movement of 14 inches (356 mm) to actuate the fire suppression system.
Exceptions:
CFC § 9-8 High relevance — show source text
(3) Testing and maintenance on automatic fire extinguishing systems exempted in writing by the State Fire Marshal, when the building owner or occupant has the staff and equipment to conduct testing and maintenance.
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[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(b)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(b) Any testing and maintenance of automatic fire extinguishing systems shall be performed in accordance with these requirements.
Exceptions:
(1) The State Fire Marshal may waive, in writing, the requirement that testing and maintenance be performed in accordance with these requirements when a licensee can demonstrate that a system cannot functionally be tested and maintained in accor- dance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.
(2) If at any time a licensee encounters a specialized or modified system which cannot be tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5, the licensee shall contact the State Fire Marshal and test and maintain the system as directed.
(A) The intent of this section is to cover automatic fire extinguishing systems as originally designed, installed and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. It is not, however, intended to require that such systems be upgraded to current adopted standards.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(h)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(h) At the time of testing and maintenance, building management shall be consulted to avoid unnecessary disturbance of normal building operation.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(i)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(i) The licensee shall contact the local fire authority having jurisdiction prior to testing and maintenance of a system when required by the local fire authority having jurisdiction to do so.
901.6.1 Standards. Fire protection systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the referenced standards listed in Table 901.6.1 and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapters 3 and 5.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.1(a)] Inspection Requirements.
(a) A license shall not be required to perform inspections. Inspections may be conducted by any person designated by the building owner or occupant who has developed competence through training and experience.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(g)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(g) Prior to activating any fire alarm component of an automatic fire extinguishing system, the licensee shall ensure that the licensee is capable of restoring the fire alarm system.
CFC § 907.7.3 High relevance — show source text
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
907.7.3 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings (“as builts”) and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
907.8 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with Sections 907.8.1 through 907.8.4 and NFPA 72. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.
907.8.1 Maintenance required. Where required for compliance with the provisions of this code, devices, equipment, systems, conditions, arrangements, levels of protection or other features shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with applicable NFPA requirements or as directed by the fire code official.
907.8.2 Testing. Testing shall be performed in accordance with the schedules in NFPA 72 or more frequently where required by the fire code official. Records of testing shall be maintained.
Exception: Devices or equipment that are inaccessible because of safety considerations shall be tested during scheduled shutdowns where approved by the fire code official, but not less than every 18 months.
907.8.3 Smoke detector sensitivity. Smoke detector sensitivity shall be checked within one year after installation and every alternate year thereafter. After the second calibration test, where sensitivity tests indicate that the detector has remained within its listed and marked sensitivity range (or 4-percent obscuration light gray smoke, if not marked), the length of time between calibration tests shall be permitted to be extended to not more than 5 years. Where the frequency is extended, records of detectorcaused nuisance alarms and subsequent trends of these alarms shall be maintained. In zones or areas where nuisance alarms show any increase over the previous year, calibration tests shall be performed.
907.8.4 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The building owner shall be responsible to maintain the fire and life safety systems in an operable condition at all times. Service personnel shall meet the qualification requirements of NFPA 72 for inspection, testing and maintenance of such systems. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.
907.9 Where required in existing buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11.
907.10 Smoke alarm maintenance. Smoke alarms shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruc tions and this code.
907.10.1 Smoke alarm replacement. Smoke alarms shall be replaced when any of the following apply:
The smoke alarm fails to respond to operability tests.
The smoke alarm exceeds 10 years from the date of manufacture marked on the unit, unless an earlier replacement is specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.
The smoke alarm end-of-life signal is sounded.
The smoke alarm date of manufacture cannot be determined.
Where the replacement of smoke alarms is required by this section, smoke alarms shall not be required to include the 520-Hz signal unless the smoke alarms to be replaced include that signal.
SECTION 908—EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEMS
CFC § 903.4.2 High relevance — show source text
- Underground key or hub gate valves in roadway boxes.
903.4.2 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station or, where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
903.4.3 Alarms. An approved audible and visual sprinkler waterflow alarm device, located on the exterior of the building in an approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a waterflow switch is required by Section 903.4.1 to be electrically supervised, such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be powered by a fire alarm control unit or, where provided, a fire alarm system. Where a fire alarm system is provided, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
903.5 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Section 901.
903.6 Where required in existing buildings and structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11.
SECTION 904—ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
904.1 General. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)(2)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(2) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained at least semi-annually, and immediately after a system activation.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(c)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(c) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems, regardless of installation date, shall be inspected, tested and main- tained within the time periods specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2) above.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.7(a) through (c)] Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Requirements for Engineered and Pre-engineered Fixed Extinguishing Systems.
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance shall be performed in accordance with:
(a) California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2),
(b) the manufacturer’s written instructions, which are approved and on file with the Office of the State Fire Marshal; and
(c) the applicable standards adopted in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, (California Fire Code).
904.1.1 Certification of service personnel for fire-extinguishing equipment. Service personnel providing or conducting maintenance on automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall possess a valid certificate issued by an approved governmental agency, or other approved organization for the type of system and work performed.
904.2 Where permitted. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official.
CFC § 907.6.6.3 High relevance — show source text
907.6.6.3 Termination of monitoring service. Termination of fire alarm monitoring services shall be in accordance with Section 901.9.
907.6.6.4 Group E schools. Automatic fire alarm systems shall be monitored and shall transmit the alarm, supervisory and trou- ble signals to an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72. The supervising station shall be listed as either UUFX (Central Station) or UUJS (remote & proprietary) by the Underwriters Laboratory Inc. (UL) or other approved listing and testing laboratory or shall comply with the requirements of FM 3011. Termination of monitoring services shall be in accordance with Section 907.6.6.3.
907.7 Acceptance tests and completion. Upon completion of the installation, the fire alarm system and all fire alarm components shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.7.1 Single- and multiple-station alarm devices. When the installation of the alarm devices is complete, each device and interconnecting wiring for multiple-station alarm devices shall be tested in accordance with the smoke alarm provisions of NFPA 72.
907.7.2 Record of completion. A record of completion in accordance with NFPA 72 verifying that the system has been installed and tested in accordance with the approved plans and specifications shall be provided.
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907.7.3 Instructions. Operating, testing and maintenance instructions and record drawings (“as builts”) and equipment specifications shall be provided at an approved location.
907.8 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The maintenance and testing schedules and procedures for fire alarm and fire detection systems shall be in accordance with Sections 907.8.1 through 907.8.4 and NFPA 72. Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.
907.8.1 Maintenance required. Where required for compliance with the provisions of this code, devices, equipment, systems, conditions, arrangements, levels of protection or other features shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with applicable NFPA requirements or as directed by the fire code official.
907.8.2 Testing. Testing shall be performed in accordance with the schedules in NFPA 72 or more frequently where required by the fire code official. Records of testing shall be maintained.
Exception: Devices or equipment that are inaccessible because of safety considerations shall be tested during scheduled shutdowns where approved by the fire code official, but not less than every 18 months.
907.8.3 Smoke detector sensitivity. Smoke detector sensitivity shall be checked within one year after installation and every alternate year thereafter. After the second calibration test, where sensitivity tests indicate that the detector has remained within its listed and marked sensitivity range (or 4-percent obscuration light gray smoke, if not marked), the length of time between calibration tests shall be permitted to be extended to not more than 5 years. Where the frequency is extended, records of detectorcaused nuisance alarms and subsequent trends of these alarms shall be maintained. In zones or areas where nuisance alarms show any increase over the previous year, calibration tests shall be performed.
CFC § 9-34 High relevance — show source text
(1) High frequency of fires in the past.
(2) Extra (high) hazard areas.
(3) Location that makes fire extinguishers susceptible to mechanical or physical damage.
(4) Exposure to abnormal temperatures or corrosive atmospheres.
(b) Manual inspection of extinguishers shall include a check of at least the following items:
(1) Located in designated place.
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility.
(3) Operating instructions on nameplate legible and facing outward.
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
(4) Safety seals and tamper indicators not broken or missing.
(5) Examine for obvious physical damage, corrosion, leakage or clogged nozzle.
(6) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position.
(7) Fullness determined by weighing or hefting.
(8) For wheeled units, the condition of tires, wheels, carriage, hose and nozzle shall also be checked.
(9) For nonrechargeable extinguishers using push-to-test pressure indicators, test the indicator.
(c) Electronic monitoring shall include monitoring of the following items:
(1) Located in the designated place.
(2) No obstruction to access or visibility.
(3) Pressure gauge reading or indicator in the operable range or position.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §567.1] Operating Conditions.
Portable extinguishers shall be maintained in a fully charged and operable condition, and kept in their designated places at all times when they are not being used.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.3] Corrective Action.
When an inspection of any extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of the conditions listed in Title 19, Division 1, Sections 574.2(b)(c), immediate corrective action shall be taken.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §574.4] Nonrechargeable Extinguishers.
When an inspection of any nonrechargeable fire extinguisher reveals a deficiency in any of the conditions listed in (3), (4), (5), (6), (7) or (9) of Title 19, Division 1, Section 574.2(b), it shall be discharged and removed from service.
Exception: Nonrechargeable extinguishers containing a halon agent shall be removed from service, not discharged, and returned to the manufacturer or local fire extinguisher distributor having the capability of recovering the halon agent.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §575.10] Out of Service.
Fire extinguishers removed from service for maintenance or recharge shall be replaced by fire extinguishers suitable for the type of hazard protected and shall be of at least equal rating.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §591.5] Replacement Extinguishers.
Portable fire extinguishers shall not be removed from the premises for hydrostatic testing or any other purpose, without first replacing the extinguisher with a unit rated for the hazard being protected. The customer’s original unit shall be returned within 60 calendar days.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §596.7(a) and (b)] Removal of Tag.
Frequently asked questions
Who must keep and how long must inspection and test records be kept?
Records of inspections, testing and maintenance must be kept on the premises and retained for five years after the next required inspection/test where Title 19 applies; initial installation records must be kept for the life of the installation per § 901.6.3 / § 901.6.3.1.
Are contractors required to be licensed to perform testing?
Yes. Testing and maintenance for automatic fire‑extinguishing systems subject to Health & Safety Code §13195 must generally be performed by persons licensed under H&S §13196.5; the State Fire Marshal can issue specific waivers. See § 904.2.
How often must engineered kitchen hood systems be serviced?
Engineered and pre‑engineered fixed extinguishing systems must be inspected, tested and maintained at least semi‑annually, and immediately after any activation, per § 904(a)(2) and Title 19.
When is integrated testing required and how often for high‑rise buildings?
Integrated testing is required when systems are interconnected to verify subordinate responses; for high‑rise buildings integrated testing must follow NFPA 4 with testing performed prior to issuance of the certificate of occupancy and at intervals not exceeding 10 years, unless an alternate plan specifies otherwise (§ 901.6.2.1).
What must be done if a required system is out of service?
Immediately notify the fire department and fire code official; the building may need evacuation or an approved fire watch until the system is returned to service (see § 901.7).
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
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