CFC · California Fire Code

Where to find special retrofit rules for existing R occupancies and high-rise buildings

If your building’s highest occupied floor sits more than 75 feet above the lowest approved access, the California Fire Code treats it as a high‑rise and the retrofit requirements in **§ 1114** apply; otherwise, existing Group R‑1/R‑2 retrofit rules in **§ 1113** govern stair, exit and fire alarm minimums. Check for local adoption of Appendix M for sprinkler retrofit schedules.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

  • For older multiple‑story Group R‑1 and R‑2 residential buildings the California Fire Code (CFC) establishes retrofit‑style minimums for means of egress, stair and corridor protection, and fire alarm installations; those requirements are collected in § 1113.
  • For existing high‑rise buildings (any occupied floor more than 75 feet (22,860 mm) above the lowest building access) the CFC has a dedicated set of retrofit rules in § 1114 that apply regardless of construction type unless specifically excepted.

The single most important rule: if an existing building has occupied floors more than 75 feet above the lowest approved building access, treat it as a high‑rise under § 1114 — that triggers the special existing‑high‑rise retrofit provisions (and in many jurisdictions an owner‑compliance schedule for sprinklers under Appendix M).

Requirements in detail

Scope and when to use § 1113 vs § 1114

  • Use § 1113 for retrofit/minimum safety rules that apply to existing Group R‑1 and R‑2 multiple‑story apartment houses, hotels and motels built before the trigger dates in the section. § 1113.1 and § 1113.1.1 set the scope and application.
  • If the building meets the high‑rise definition (occupied floors > 75 ft above lowest building access) the rules in § 1114 govern; many of the § 1113 items do not apply and/or are superseded by § 1114.

Key decision dimensions (quick reference)

Decision dimension Typical threshold / value What the code requires Code Reference
Height that triggers high‑rise provisions More than 75 ft (22,860 mm) measured from top of floor surface to lowest building access Apply § 1114 (existing high‑rise building provisions) § 1114.1
Occupancy types covered by § 1113 Group R‑1 and Group R‑2 multiple‑story structures (existing on Jan 1, 1975) Stair enclosures, minimum stair dimensions, exits, fire alarms, corridor/door protections § 1113.1 / § 1113.1.1
Fire alarm requirement (existing R) Apartment house ≥ 3 stories OR > 15 apartments; Hotel ≥ 3 stories OR ≥ 20 guest rooms Automatic or manually operated fire alarm system designed to warn all occupants simultaneously § 1113.12.1
Corridor/opening protection (R high‑rise) Corridor openings and transoms Doors: not less than 1 3/4‑inch solid‑bonded wood‑core (or equivalent); wired glass and transom closure details as listed § 1113.13.2
Fire alarm & detection (R high‑rise) Existing high‑rise housing R‑1/R‑2 Fire alarm systems must be installed per the subsection for existing high‑rises — see § 1113.13.3 § 1113.13.3
Retroactive sprinkler retrofit option Jurisdiction adoption (optional) Appendix M provides an adoptable retrofit sprinkler requirement and a compliance schedule (max 12 years for retrofit schedule) § M101–M103 (Appendix M)

Stair, exit and alarm highlights from § 1113 (R occupancies)

  • Minimum stair dimensions, handrail and landing requirements for existing R occupancies are established in § 1113.3 and § 1113.4 (e.g., max rise 8 in, min run 9 in, min clear stair width 30 in exclusive of handrails).
  • Fire alarm systems for qualifying apartments/hotels must be installed in accordance with the CFC; exceptions exist where a fire‑resistive separation is provided (see § 1113.12.1).

High‑rise (§ 1114) scope, measurement and exceptions

  • § 1114.1 defines the scope: applies to every existing high‑rise building with occupied floors located more than 75 feet above lowest building access. The section also gives exceptions (hospitals as defined in Health & Safety Code § 1250, many open parking garages, certain other structures).
  • The section includes a note directing the enforcing agency to use reasonable judgment when measuring the “level from which the highest occupied floor is to be measured,” especially on sloped sites or where multiple accesses exist. This affects whether the 75‑ft threshold is met.

Appendix M — retroactive sprinkler retrofit (adopted locally)

  • Appendix M is an adoptable CFC appendix that, when adopted by a jurisdiction, requires automatic sprinkler retrofit in existing high‑rise buildings and sets a compliance schedule (owners file schedule within 365 days; maximum retrofit time typically 12 years). Appendix M is optional unless the jurisdiction adopts it.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Hospitals (as defined elsewhere in Health & Safety Code) are excluded from § 1114. § 1114.1 lists the specific exceptions.
  • Some provisions of § 1113 (for existing R occupancies) expressly do not apply to buildings that are subject to § 1114; high‑rise status supersedes those older‑building provisions where noted.
  • Appendix M’s sprinkler retrofit is optional statewide and only applies where a jurisdiction has incorporated that appendix or otherwise adopted similar local requirements; do not assume sprinklers are mandated by the state CFC unless Appendix M (or an equivalent local ordinance) is adopted.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming “high‑rise” uses roof height or number of stories rather than the CFC measurement of occupied floor elevation above the lowest building access — § 1114.1 gives the controlling definition and a note that enforcing agencies should exercise judgment when measuring.
  • Missing the interplay between § 1113 and § 1114: some § 1113 rules are intended for older low/medium‑rise R occupancies and are superseded or excluded when § 1114 applies. Check both sections.
  • Treating Appendix M as automatically applicable statewide — it is adoptable and enforceable only where the jurisdiction includes it (or local law mandates equivalent retrofit). Always confirm local adoption before presuming a sprinkler retrofit mandate.

Worked example — applying the rules with numbers

Scenario: A 1968 apartment building (existing multiple‑story Group R‑2) has its highest occupied floor at 90 ft above the lowest approved building access. There are 24 apartments and the building is three stories tall.

Step‑by‑step:

  1. Is it a high‑rise? Yes — highest occupied floor is 90 ft, which is > 75 ft, so § 1114 applies. § 1114.1 is the controlling section.
  2. Do the Group R high‑rise special provisions apply? Yes — § 1113.13 specifically addresses existing Group R occupancy high‑rise buildings and requires corridor opening protections and fire alarm systems per that subsection. § 1113.13.2 and § 1113.13.3 are directly applicable.
  3. Is a fire alarm required? Yes — independent of high‑rise status, § 1113.12.1 requires an automatic or manually operated fire alarm for apartment houses three or more stories or containing more than 15 apartments (both thresholds are met), and § 1113.13.3 requires fire alarm systems for R‑1/R‑2 high‑rises as well. Install per the CFC.
  4. Door and corridor protection: Corridor openings must be protected per § 1113.13.2 (e.g., 1 3/4‑inch solid‑bonded wood‑core doors or equivalent wired glass/fire damper protection) — implement those protections for corridor openings.
  5. Sprinkler retrofit: Check whether the local jurisdiction adopted Appendix M (or a local ordinance) — if adopted, a retrofit sprinkler schedule and deadlines (e.g., filing within 365 days, maximum compliance schedule up to 12 years) will apply. If not adopted locally, Appendix M does not automatically require sprinklers.

Related provisions

  • § 1113.1 — Scope of existing Group R‑1 and R‑2 provisions.
  • § 1113.3 / § 1113.4 — Stair construction and interior stairway enclosure minimums for existing R occupancies.
  • § 1113.12 — Fire alarm general thresholds for existing Group R occupancies.
  • § 1113.13 — Special rules for existing Group R occupancy high‑rise buildings (corridor openings, fire alarms, extinguishing interlocks).
  • § 1114.1 — Scope, definition and exceptions for existing high‑rise buildings.
  • Appendix M (M101–M103) — Adoptable retrofit automatic sprinkler requirements and compliance schedule for existing high‑rise buildings.

Code references

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

  • CFC § 1113.12.2 High relevance — show source text

    _ provided they do not unduly impair the required fire resistance of the assembly. 6. Tolerances around such penetrations shall be filled with approved noncombustible materials.

    1113.12.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.

    1113.13 Existing Group R Occupancy high-rise buildings.

    1113.13.1 General. Regardless of other provisions of these regulations relating to existing high-rise buildings, requirements relative to existing Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall not be less restrictive than those established pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.2.

    1113.13.2 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls and ceilings shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors, [1] / 4 -inch-thick (6 mm) wired glass conforming to Section 715.1 of the California Building Code, by approved fire dampers or by equivalent protection in lieu of any of these items. Transoms shall be fixed closed with material having a fire-resis- tive rating equal to [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard or equivalent material installed on both sides of the opening.

    1113.13.3 Fire alarm systems. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 403 of the California Building Code, every existing high-rise building used for the housing of a Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall have installed therein a fire alarm system conforming to this subsection.

    1113.13.3.1 General. Every apartment house and every hotel shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously.

    1113.13.3.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.

    1113.13.3.3 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in any structure subject to these regula- tions shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected to the required fire alarm system.

    SECTION 1114—EXISTING HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS [SFM]

    1114.1 Scope and definition. The provisions of Sections 1114.1 through 1114.27 shall apply to every existing high-rise building of any type of construction or occupancy having floors (as measured from the top of the floor surface) used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest floor level having building access.

    Exceptions: 1. Hospitals, as defined in Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code. 2. The following structures, while classified as high-rise buildings, shall not be subject to the provisions of Sections 1114.1 through 1114.27, but shall conform to all applicable provisions of these regulations. 2.1. Building used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.2. Buildings where all floors above the 75 foot (22 860 mm) level are used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.3. Floors of buildings used exclusively as open parking garages and located above all other floors used for human

    occupancy.

  • CFC § 1113.9 High relevance — show source text

    1113.9 Enclosure of vertical openings. Elevators, shafts, ducts and other vertical openings shall be enclosed as required for stairways in Section 1113.5 or by wired glass set in metal frames. Doors shall be noncombustible or as regulated in Section 1113.4.

    1113.10 Separation of occupancies. Occupancy separations shall be provided as specified in Section 508 of the California Building Code. Lobbies and public dining rooms, not including cocktail lounges, shall not require a separation if the kitchen is so separated from the dining room. Every room containing a boiler or central heating plant shall be separated from the rest of the building by not less than a one-hour fire-resistive occupancy separation.

    Exception: A separation shall not be required for such rooms with equipment serving only one dwelling unit.

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    CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS

    1113.11 Equivalent protection. In lieu of the separation of occupancies required by Section 1113.10, equivalent protection may be permitted when approved by the enforcement agency.

    Exception: The provisions of Sections 1113.3 through 1113.11 above shall not apply to any existing apartment house, hotel or motel having floors (as measured from the top of the floor surface) used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest floor level having building access which is subject to the provisions of Section 1114 and the California Existing Building Code, relating to existing high-rise buildings.

    Note: In accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17920.7, the provisions of Sections 1113.3 through 1113.11 above shall apply only to multiple-story structures existing on January 1, 1975, let for human habitation including, and limited to, apartments, houses, hotels and motels wherein rooms used for sleeping are let above the ground floor.

    1113.12 Fire alarms.

    1113.12.1 General. Every apartment house three or more stories in height or containing more than 15 apartments, every hotel three or more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously and shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code. See Section 1114.14 for special requirements in buildings over 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height.

    Exception: A fire alarm system need not be installed provided such apartment house or hotel is separated by an unpierced wall of not less than four-hour fire resistance in buildings of Type IA, Type IIB, Type III or Type IV construction and two-hour fire resistance in buildings of all other types of construction provided: 1. Areas do not exceed the number of apartments or guest rooms stipulated. 2. The fire-resistive wall conforms to the requirements of Section 706.6 of the California Building Code. 3. The wall complies with all other applicable provisions of the California Building Code. 4. The wall extends to all outer edges of horizontal projecting elements, such as balconies, roof overhangs, canopies, marquees or architectural projections. _5.

  • CFC § 403.2 High relevance — show source text

    For existing high-rise buildings and for existing Group R occupancies, see California Fire Code Chapter 11 and California Existing Building Code.

    For the purpose of this section, in determining the level from which the highest occupied floor is to be measured, the enforcing agency should exercise reasonable judgment, including consideration of overall accessibility to the building by fire department personnel and vehicular equipment. When a building is located on sloping terrain and there is building access on more than one level, the enforcing agency may select the level that provides the most logical and adequate fire department access.

    403.2 Construction. The construction of high-rise buildings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 403.2.1 through 403.2.3.

    403.2.1 Reduction in fire-resistance rating. The fire-resistance rating reductions specified in Sections 403.2.1.1 and 403.2.1.2 shall be allowed in buildings that have sprinkler control valves equipped with supervisory initiating devices and water-flow initiating devices for each floor.

    Exception: Buildings, or portions of buildings, classified as a Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 occupancy.

    403.2.1.1 Type of construction. The following reductions in the minimum fire-resistance rating of the building elements in Table 601 shall be permitted as follows:

    1. For buildings not greater than 420 feet (128 m) in building height, the fire-resistance rating of the building elements in Type IA construction shall be permitted to be reduced to the minimum fire-resistance ratings for the building elements in Type IB. Exception: The required fire-resistance rating of the primary structural frame shall not be reduced.
    2. In other than Group F-1, H-2, H-3, H-5, M and S-1 occupancies, the fire-resistance rating of the building elements in Type IB construction shall be permitted to be reduced to the fire-resistance ratings in Type IIA. Exception: The required fire-resistance rating of the primary structural frame shall not be permitted to be reduced.
    3. The building height and building area limitations of a building containing building elements with reduced fire-resistance ratings shall be permitted to be the same as the building without such reductions.

    403.2.1.2 Shaft enclosures. For buildings not greater than 420 feet (128 m) in building height, the required fire-resistance rating of the fire barriers enclosing vertical shafts, other than interior exit stairway and elevator hoistway enclosures, is permitted to be reduced to 1 hour where automatic sprinklers are installed within the shafts at the top and at alternate floor levels.

    [BS] 403.2.2 Structural integrity of interior exit stairways and elevator hoistway enclosures. For high-rise buildings of Risk Category III or IV in accordance with Section 1604.5, and for all buildings that are more than 420 feet (128 m) in building height, enclosures for interior exit stairways and elevator hoistway enclosures shall comply with Sections 403.2.2.1 through 403.2.2.4.

  • CFC § 17.7.3.2.4 High relevance — show source text

    _ (8) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36-inch (910 mm) horizontal path from the supply regis- ters of a forced air heating or cooling system and shall be installed outside of the direct airflow from those registers. (9) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36-inch (910 mm) horizontal path from the tip of the blade of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan unless the room configuration restricts meeting this requirement. (10) Where stairs lead to other occupied levels, a smoke alarm or smoke detector shall be located so that smoke rising in the stairway cannot be prevented from reaching the smoke alarm or smoke detector by an intervening door or obstruction.

    (11) For stairways leading up from a basement, smoke alarms or smoke detectors shall be located on the basement ceiling near the entry to the stairs. (12) For tray-shaped ceilings (coffered ceilings), smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall be installed on the highest portion of the ceiling or on the sloped portion of the ceiling within 12 inches (300 mm) vertically down from the highest point. (13) Smoke alarms and detectors installed in rooms with joists or beams shall comply with the requirements of 17.7.3.2.4 of NFPA 72.

    (14) Heat alarms and detectors installed in rooms with joists or beams shall comply with the requirements of 17.6.3 of NFPA 72.

    *For additional requirements or clarification see NFPA 72.

    907.2.11.9 Existing Group R occupancies. See the California Residential Code for existing Group R-3 occupancies or Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code for all other existing Group R occupancies.

    [F] 907.2.12 Special amusement areas. Fire detection and alarm systems shall be provided in special amusement areas and throughout the exit access to the point of exit discharge in accordance with Section 411.3.

    [F] 907.2.13 High-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. High-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a fire department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

    Exceptions:

    1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Sections 412 and 907.2.22.
    2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5.
    3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1.
    4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.
    5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415.
    6. In Group I-2 and R-2.1 occupancies, the alarm shall sound at a constantly attended location and occupant notification shall be broadcast by the emergency voice/alarm communication system.
  • CFC § 1113.12 High relevance — show source text

    1113.12 Fire alarms.

    1113.12.1 General. Every apartment house three or more stories in height or containing more than 15 apartments, every hotel three or more stories in height or containing 20 or more guest rooms, shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously and shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code. See Section 1114.14 for special requirements in buildings over 75 feet (22 860 mm) in height.

    Exception: A fire alarm system need not be installed provided such apartment house or hotel is separated by an unpierced wall of not less than four-hour fire resistance in buildings of Type IA, Type IIB, Type III or Type IV construction and two-hour fire resistance in buildings of all other types of construction provided: 1. Areas do not exceed the number of apartments or guest rooms stipulated. 2. The fire-resistive wall conforms to the requirements of Section 706.6 of the California Building Code. 3. The wall complies with all other applicable provisions of the California Building Code. 4. The wall extends to all outer edges of horizontal projecting elements, such as balconies, roof overhangs, canopies, marquees or architectural projections. 5. No openings are permitted for air ducts or similar penetrations, except that openings for pipes, conduits and electrical outlets of copper, sheet steel or ferrous material shall be permitted through such wall and need not be protected, provided they do not unduly impair the required fire resistance of the assembly. 6. Tolerances around such penetrations shall be filled with approved noncombustible materials.

    1113.12.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.

    1113.13 Existing Group R Occupancy high-rise buildings.

    1113.13.1 General. Regardless of other provisions of these regulations relating to existing high-rise buildings, requirements relative to existing Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall not be less restrictive than those established pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.2.

    1113.13.2 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls and ceilings shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors, [1] / 4 -inch-thick (6 mm) wired glass conforming to Section 715.1 of the California Building Code, by approved fire dampers or by equivalent protection in lieu of any of these items. Transoms shall be fixed closed with material having a fire-resis- tive rating equal to [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard or equivalent material installed on both sides of the opening.

    1113.13.3 Fire alarm systems. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 403 of the California Building Code, every existing high-rise building used for the housing of a Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall have installed therein a fire alarm system conforming to this subsection.

  • CFC § 0.099 Medium relevance — show source text
    c, d, e Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6
    MAXIMUM DESIGN
    PRESSURE
    (+ or - psf)    		 MINIMUM
    PANEL SPAN
    RATING    		 MINIMUM PANEL
    PERFORMANCE
    CATEGORY    		 NAIL TYPE
    AND SIZE    		 FASTENERa SPACINGe ALONG
    EDGES AND INTERMEDIATE SUPPORTS
    (inches)    		 FASTENERa SPACINGe ALONG
    EDGES AND INTERMEDIATE SUPPORTS
    (inches)
    MAXIMUM DESIGN
    PRESSURE
    (+ or - psf)    		 MINIMUM
    PANEL SPAN
    RATING    		 MINIMUM PANEL
    PERFORMANCE
    CATEGORY    		 NAIL TYPE
    AND SIZE    		 Galvanized Steel Stainless Steel
    30 24/0 3/8 6d box
    (2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)    		 6f 4
    40 24/0 3/8 6d box
    (2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)    		 6 4
    50 24/0 3/8 6d box
    (2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)    		 4 4
    50 24/0 3/8 8d common
    (21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)    		 6 6
    60 24/0 3/8 6d box
    (2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)    		 4 3
    60 24/0 3/8 8d common
    (21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)    		 6 4
    70 24/16 7/16 8d common
    (21/2× 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)    		 4 4
    70 24/16 7/16 10d box
    (3 × 0.128 × 0.312 head diameter)    		 6 4
    80 24/16 7/16 8d common
    (21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)    		 4 4
    80 24/16 7/16 10d box
    (3 × 0.128 × 0.312 head diameter)    		 6 4
    90 32/16 15/32 8d common
    (21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)    		 4 3
    90 32/16 15/32 10d box
    (3 × 0.128 × 0.312 head diameter)    		 6 4
    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
    a. Fasteners shall comply with Sections R703.3.2 and R703.3.3.
    b. Maximum spacing of exterior soffit framing members shall not exceed 24 inches.
    c. Wood structural panels shall be of an exterior exposure grade.
    d. Wood structural panels shall be installed with strength axis perpendicular to supports with not fewer than two continuous spans.
    e.
  • CFC § 402.8.8 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BE] 402.8.8 Security grilles and doors. Horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles or doors that are a part of a required means of egress shall conform to the following:

    1. Doors and grilles shall remain in the full open position during the period of occupancy by the general public.
    2. Doors or grilles shall not be brought to the closed position when there are 10 or more persons occupying spaces served by a single exit or 50 or more persons occupying spaces served by more than one exit.

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    SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE

    1. The doors or grilles shall be openable from within without the use of any special knowledge or effort where the space is occupied.
    2. Where two or more exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits shall be permitted to include either a horizontal sliding or vertical rolling grille or door.

    SECTION 403—HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS AND GROUP I-2 OCCUPANCIES HAVING OCCUPIED FLOORS

    LOCATED MORE THAN 75 FEET ABOVE THE LOWEST LEVEL OF FIRE DEPARTMENT VEHICLE ACCESS

    403.1 Applicability. New high-rise buildings (see Section 202 for definition of a high-rise) and new Group I-2 occupancies having occu- pied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall comply with Sections 403.2 through 403.7.

    Exceptions: The provisions of Sections 403.2 through 403.7 shall not apply to the following buildings and structures:

    1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Section 412.2.
    2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5.
    3. The portion of a building containing a Group A-5 occupancy in accordance with Section 303.6.
    4. Special industrial occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1. 5. Buildings such as power plants, lookout towers, steeples, grain houses and similar structures with noncontinuous human occupancy, when so determined by the enforcing agency.

    For existing high-rise buildings and for existing Group R occupancies, see California Fire Code Chapter 11 and California Existing Building Code.

    For the purpose of this section, in determining the level from which the highest occupied floor is to be measured, the enforcing agency should exercise reasonable judgment, including consideration of overall accessibility to the building by fire department personnel and vehicular equipment. When a building is located on sloping terrain and there is building access on more than one level, the enforcing agency may select the level that provides the most logical and adequate fire department access.

    403.2 Construction. The construction of high-rise buildings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 403.2.1 through 403.2.3.

    403.2.1 Reduction in fire-resistance rating. The fire-resistance rating reductions specified in Sections 403.2.1.1 and 403.2.1.2 shall be allowed in buildings that have sprinkler control valves equipped with supervisory initiating devices and water-flow initiating devices for each floor.

    Exception: Buildings, or portions of buildings, classified as a Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 occupancy.

    **403.2.1.1 Type of construction.

  • CFC § 907.2.11.9 Medium relevance — show source text

    907.2.11.9 Existing Group R occupancies. See the California Residential Code for existing Group R-3 occupancies or Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code for all other existing Group R occupancies.

    [F] 907.2.12 Special amusement areas. Fire detection and alarm systems shall be provided in special amusement areas and throughout the exit access to the point of exit discharge in accordance with Section 411.3.

    [F] 907.2.13 High-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. High-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1, a fire department communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.

    Exceptions:

    1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance with Sections 412 and 907.2.22.
    2. Open parking garages in accordance with Section 406.5.
    3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in accordance with Section 303.1.
    4. Low-hazard special occupancies in accordance with Section 503.1.1.
    5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415.
    6. In Group I-2 and R-2.1 occupancies, the alarm shall sound at a constantly attended location and occupant notification shall be broadcast by the emergency voice/alarm communication system.

    [F] 907.2.13.1 Automatic smoke detection. Automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.13.1.1 and 907.2.13.1.2.

    [F] 907.2.13.1.1 Area smoke detection. Area smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance with this section. Smoke detectors shall be connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The activation of any detector required by this section shall activate the emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2. In addition to smoke detectors required by Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.9, smoke detectors shall be located as follows:

    1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical, transformer, telephone equipment or similar room that is not provided with sprinkler protection.
    2. In each elevator machine room, machinery space, control room and control space and in elevator lobbies.

    [F] 907.2.13.1.2 Duct smoke detection. Smoke detectors listed for use in air duct systems shall be provided in accordance with this section and the California Mechanical Code. The activation of any detector required by this section shall initiate a visible and

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    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. Duct smoke detectors complying with Section 907.3.1 shall be located as follows:

  • CFC § 313.13.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    313.13.1 General. Regardless of other provisions of these regulations relating to existing high-rise buildings, requirements relative to existing Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall not be less restrictive than those established pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.2.

    313.13.2 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls and ceilings shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors, [ 1] / 4 -inch-thick (6 mm) wired glass conforming to Section 715.1 of the California Building Code, by approved fire dampers or by equivalent protection in lieu of any of these items. Transoms shall be fixed closed with material having a fire-resistive rating equal to [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard or equivalent material installed on both sides of the opening.

    313.13.3 Fire alarm systems. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 403 of the California Building Code, every existing high-rise building used for the housing of a Group R-1 or Group R-2 Occupancies shall have installed therein a fire alarm system conforming to this subsection.

    313.13.3.1 General. Every apartment house and every hotel shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously.

    313.13.3.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code.

    313.13.3.3 Fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in any structure subject to these regulations shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected to the required fire alarm system.

    SECTION 314 [SFM]—EXISTING HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS

    314.1 Scope and definition. The provisions of Sections 314.1 through 314.27 shall apply to every existing high-rise building of any type of construction or occupancy having floors (as measured from the top of the floor surface) used for human occupancy located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest floor level having building access.

    Exceptions: 1. Hospitals, as defined in Section 1250 of the Health and Safety Code. 2. The following structures, while classified as high-rise buildings, shall not be subject to the provisions of Sections 314.1 through 314.27, but shall conform to all applicable provisions of these regulations. 2.1. Building used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.2. Buildings where all floors above the 75 foot (22 860 mm) level are used exclusively as open parking garages. 2.3. Floors of buildings used exclusively as open parking garages and located above all other floors used for human

    occupancy. 2.4. Buildings such as power plants, look-out towers, steeples, grain houses and similar structures, when so determined by the enforcing agency. 2.5. _Buildings used exclusively for jails and prisons.

  • CFC § 17062.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    References – Health and Safety Code Sections 17000 through 17062.5, 17910 through 17995.5, 18200 through 18700, 18860 through 18874, 18938.6, 18941, 19890, 19891, 19892 and 19960 through 19997; Civil Code Sections 1101.4, 1101.5 and 1954.201; and Government Code Sections 12955.1 and 12955.1.1. California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Sections 1605.1, 1605.3 and 1607; and Title 25, Sections 1042 and 2042.

    1.8.3 Local Enforcing Agency.

    1.8.3.1 Duties and Powers. The building department of every city, county, or city and county shall enforce all the provisions of law, this code, and the other rules and reg- ulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development pertaining to the installation, erection, construction, reconstruction, movement, enlargement, conversion, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, or arrangement of apartments, condomini- ums, hotels, motels, lodging houses, and dwellings, including accessory buildings, facilities, and uses thereto.

    8 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

    The provisions regulating the erection and con- struction of dwellings and appurtenant structures shall not apply to existing structures as to which construction is commenced or approved prior to the effective date of these regulations. Requirements relating to use, mainte- nance, and occupancy shall apply to all dwellings and appurtenant structures approved for construction or con- structed before or after the effective date of this code.

    For additional information regarding the use and occupancy of existing buildings and appurtenant struc- tures, see California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Divi- sion 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 1.

    1.8.3.2 Laws, Rules, and Regulations. Other than the building standards contained in this code, and notwith- standing other provisions of law, the statutory authority and location of the laws, rules, and regulations to be enforced by local enforcing agencies are listed by statute in Sections 1.8.3.2.1 through 1.8.3.2.5 below:

    1.8.3.2.1 State Housing Law. Refer to the State Housing Law, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, commencing with Section 17910, and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 1, for the erection, construction, recon- struction, movement, enlargement, conversion, alteration, repair, removal, demolition, or arrange- ment of apartments, condominiums, hotels, motels, lodging houses, and dwellings, including accessory buildings, facilities, and uses thereto.

  • CFC § 19-12 Medium relevance — show source text

    The following samples of materials and tendons selected by the engineer or the designated testing laboratory from the prestress- ing steel at the plant or job site shall be furnished by the contractor and tested by an approved independent testing agency: 1. For wire, strand or bars, 7-foot-long (2134 mm) samples shall be taken of the coil of wire or strand reel or rods. A minimum of one random sample per 5,000 pounds (2270 kg) of each heat or lot used on the job shall be selected. 2. For prefabricated prestressing tendons other than bars, one completely fabricated tendon 10 feet (3048 mm) in length between grips with the anchorage assembly at one end shall be furnished for each size and type of tendon and anchorage assembly.

    Variations of the bearing plate size need not be considered.

    The anchorages of unbonded tendons shall develop at least 95 percent of the minimum specified ultimate strength of the prestressing steel. The total elongation of the tendon under ultimate load shall not be less than 2 percent measured in a minimum gage length of 10 feet (3048 mm).

    Anchorages of bonded tendons shall develop at least 90 percent of the minimum specified strength of the prestressing steel tested in an unbonded state. All couplings shall develop at least 95 percent of the minimum specified strength of the

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    CONCRETE

    prestressing steel and shall not reduce the elongation at rupture below the requirements of the tendon itself. 3. If the prestressing tendon is a bar, one 7-foot (2134 mm) length complete with one end anchorage shall be furnished and, in addition, if couplers are to be used with the bar, two 4-foot (1219 mm) lengths of bar fabricated to fit and equipped with one coupler shall be furnished. 4. Mill tests of materials used for end anchorages shall be furnished. In addition, at least one Brinnell hardness test shall be made of each thickness of bearing plate.

    1910.2.4 Composite construction cores. Cores of the completed composite concrete construction shall be taken to demonstrate the shear strength along the contact surfaces. The cores shall be tested when the cast-in-place concrete is approximately 28 days old and shall be tested by a shear loading parallel to the joint between the precast concrete and the cast-in-place concrete. The minimum unit shear strength of the contact surface area of the core shall not be less than 100 psi (689 kPa). At least one core shall be taken from each building for each 5,000 square feet (465 m [2] ) of area of composite concrete construction and not fewer than three cores shall be taken from each project. The architect or structural engineer in responsible charge of the proj- ect or his or her representative shall designate the location for sampling.

    1910.3 Modifications to ACI 318.

    1910.3.1 ACI 318, Section 12.7.3. Add Section 12.7.3.4 to ACI 318 as follows:

  • CFC § 1.8.2.1.3. Medium relevance — show source text

    Exceptions: 1. [HCD 2] For relocated or moved buildings and maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures in mobilehome parks or special occupancy parks as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.3. See California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapters 2 and 2.2. 2. [HCD 1] Limited-density owner-built rural dwellings.

    [HCD 1] In addition to the requirements in this chapter, maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures under the authority of the Department of Housing and Community Development, as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.1, shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1.

    501.1.1 Compliance with other methods. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this chapter or with one of the methods provided in Section 301.3.

    501.1.2 Existing state-owned structures. [BSC] The provisions of Sections 317 through 322 establish minimum standards for earth- quake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing state-owned structures, including buildings owned by the University of California, the California State University and the Judicial Council.

    The provisions of Sections 317 through 322 may be adopted by a local jurisdiction for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing buildings.

    501.2 Fire-resistance ratings. Where approved by the code official, in buildings where an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 of the California Building Code has been added, and the building is now sprinklered throughout, the required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and materials shall be permitted to meet the requirements of the current building code. The building is required to meet the other applicable requirements of the California Building Code .

    Plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted indicating which building elements and materials the applicant is requesting the code official to review and approve for determination of applying the current building code fire-resistance ratings. Any special construction features, including fire-resistance-rated assemblies and smoke-resistive assemblies, conditions of occupancy, means of egress conditions, fire code deficiencies, approved modifications or approved alternative materials, design and methods of construction, and equipment applying to the building that impact required fire-resistance ratings shall be identified in the evaluation reports submitted.

    501.3 Health care facilities. In Group I-2 facilities, ambulatory care facilities and outpatient clinics, any altered or added portion of an existing electrical or medical gas systems shall be required to meet installation and equipment requirements in NFPA 99.

    501.4 Existing Group R occupancies. [SFM] See the California Residential Code for existing Group R-3 occupancies or Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code for all other existing Group R occupancies.

    501.5 Carbon monoxide alarms. [HCD 1, SFM] Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17926, carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in all existing Group R buildings, as required in Section 915 of the California Building Code or Section R315 of the California Resi- dential Code, as applicable.

Frequently asked questions

Who decides whether § 1113 or § 1114 applies to a building?

The enforcing agency (local fire code official) determines applicability — especially where measurement of the 75‑ft threshold or unusual site conditions require judgment. See the measurement note in § 1114.1.

Does Appendix M automatically require sprinklers in all existing high‑rises?

No. Appendix M is adoptable by jurisdiction; it only requires retrofit sprinklers where the local authority has adopted Appendix M (or equivalent local law). § M101–M103 describe the scope and compliance schedule.

Are hospital high‑rises covered by § 1114?

No. § 1114.1 expressly excludes hospitals (see the cross‑reference to the Health & Safety Code definition).

For an older apartment with >15 units but less than 75 ft tall, which section controls alarms?

Use § 1113.12.1 — apartments three or more stories or containing >15 units require an alarm system per § 1113.12.1 and the equipment is to be installed per the CFC.

If a jurisdiction has not adopted Appendix M, can they still require a sprinkler retrofit?

Yes — a local jurisdiction may adopt its own ordinance or use other legal authority; Appendix M is one model within the CFC but not the only mechanism. Confirm local adoption/enforcement with the fire code official.

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Related in the CFC

Retrofit limits and additional requirements for existing Group I-2 (health-care)

Appendix K: retrofit guidance for ambulatory care facilities

Special-occupancy retrofit provisions and appendices

California Fire Code