CFC · California Fire Code
Fire‑resistance ratings & assemblies (how ratings are established)
Chapter 7 of the California code explains that fire‑resistance ratings are assigned by standard tests (ASTM E119/UL 263), by approved analytical/prescriptive methods, or by calculation procedures in §722, and connects those ratings to construction requirements for members, penetrations and openings.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
This area of the code explains how fire‑resistance ratings are determined for building elements, components and assemblies and where those ratings are required. The rules and tests are located in Chapter 7 (Fire and Smoke Protection Features), most centrally in §703 (Fire‑Resistance Ratings and Fire Tests), which sets the testing standard and scope for rated construction . Chapter 7 also contains the related provisions that use those ratings (for example, structural members in §704 and marking/identification requirements) .
Ratings are established three ways: (1) by test (the standard furnace tests in ASTM E119 or UL 263 for assemblies), (2) by approved analytical/prescriptive methods called out in the code, and (3) by calculation procedures for specific materials (Chapter 7’s calculated‑resistance provisions in §722). Section §703.2.1 requires ASTM E119 or UL 263 for tested assemblies, while §703.2.2 lists accepted analytical and calculated alternatives and §722 contains the calculation methods and tables for concrete, masonry, steel and wood assemblies .
The same chapter ties those established ratings to design and construction details: protection of structural members (§704), required protection of penetrations and joints (§714–§715), and fire‑resistance‑rated openings such as glazing and doors (§716). Designers should consult those sections and the referenced standards when specifying or substituting assemblies to ensure the assigned rating applies to the installed condition .
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 703.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 703—FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS AND FIRE TESTS
703.1 Scope. Materials prescribed herein for fire resistance shall conform to the requirements of this chapter.
703.2 Fire resistance. The fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined in accordance with Section 703.2.1 or 703.2.2 without the use of automatic sprinklers or any other fire suppression system being incorporated, or in accordance with Section 703.2.3.
703.2.1 Tested assemblies. A fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined by the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263. The fire-resistance rating of penetrations and fire-resistant joint systems shall be determined in accordance with Sections 714 and 715, respectively.
703.2.1.1 Nonsymmetrical wall construction. Interior walls and partitions of nonsymmetrical construction shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fire-resistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the building official, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side (see Section 705.5 for exterior walls).
703.2.1.2 Combustible components. Combustible aggregates are permitted in gypsum and Portland cement concrete mixtures for fire-resistance-rated construction. Any component material or admixture is permitted in assemblies if the resulting tested assembly meets the fire-resistance test requirements of this code.
703.2.1.3 Restrained classification. Fire-resistance-rated assemblies tested under ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not be considered to be restrained unless evidence satisfactory to the building official is furnished by the registered design professional showing that the construction qualifies for a restrained classification in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Restrained construction shall be identified on the construction documents.
703.2.1.4 Supplemental features. Where materials, systems or devices that have not been tested as part of a fire-resistancerated assembly are incorporated into the building element, component or assembly, sufficient data shall be made available to the building official to show that the required fire-resistance rating is not reduced.
703.2.1.5 Exterior bearing walls. In determining the fire-resistance rating of exterior bearing walls, compliance with the ASTM E119 or UL 263 criteria for unexposed surface temperature rise and ignition of cotton waste due to passage of flame or gases is required only for a period of time corresponding to the required fire-resistance rating of an exterior nonbearing wall with the same fire separation distance, and in a building of the same group. Where the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this exception exceeds the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263, the fire exposure time period, water pressure and application duration criteria for the hose stream test of ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall be based on the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this section.
703.2.2 Analytical methods. The fire resistance of building elements, components or assemblies established by an analytical method shall be by any of the methods listed in this section, based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263.
- Fire-resistance designs documented in approved sources.
- Prescriptive designs of fire-resistance-rated building elements, components or assemblies as prescribed in Section 721.
CFC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
2.1_||||X|X||||||||||||||||||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
7-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
7 FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides detailed requirements for fire-resistance-rated construction, including structural members, walls, partitions and horizontal assemblies. Other portions of the code describe where certain fire-resistance-rated elements are required. This chapter specifies how these elements are constructed, how openings in walls and partitions are protected and how penetrations of such elements are protected.
SECTION 701—GENERAL
701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the materials, systems and assemblies used for structural fire resistance and fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces to safeguard against the spread of fire and smoke within a building and the spread of fire to or from buildings.
SECTION 702—MULTIPLE-USE FIRE ASSEMBLIES
702.1 Multiple-use fire assemblies. Fire assemblies that serve multiple purposes in a building shall comply with all of the requirements that are applicable for each of the individual fire assemblies.
SECTION 703—FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS AND FIRE TESTS
703.1 Scope. Materials prescribed herein for fire resistance shall conform to the requirements of this chapter.
703.2 Fire resistance. The fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined in accordance with Section 703.2.1 or 703.2.2 without the use of automatic sprinklers or any other fire suppression system being incorporated, or in accordance with Section 703.2.3.
703.2.1 Tested assemblies. A fire-resistance rating of building elements, components or assemblies shall be determined by the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263. The fire-resistance rating of penetrations and fire-resistant joint systems shall be determined in accordance with Sections 714 and 715, respectively.
703.2.1.1 Nonsymmetrical wall construction. Interior walls and partitions of nonsymmetrical construction shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire-resistance rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with ASTM E119 or UL 263. Where evidence is furnished to show that the wall was tested with the least fire-resistant side exposed to the furnace, subject to acceptance of the building official, the wall need not be subjected to tests from the opposite side (see Section 705.5 for exterior walls).
703.2.1.2 Combustible components. Combustible aggregates are permitted in gypsum and Portland cement concrete mixtures for fire-resistance-rated construction. Any component material or admixture is permitted in assemblies if the resulting tested assembly meets the fire-resistance test requirements of this code.
CFC § 4.2 High relevance — show source text
This approach essentially follows the approach taken by model building codes. The assembly must appear in a table either published in or accepted by the code for a given fire-resistance rating to be recognized and accepted.
4.2 The fire resistance of a building element which does not explicitly appear in the Appendix tables can be established if one or more elements of same design but different dimensions have been listed in the tables. For walls, the existing element must be thicker than the one listed. For floor/ceiling assemblies, the assembly listed in the table must have the same or less cover and the same or thinner slab constructed of the same material as the actual floor/ceiling assembly. For other structural elements, the element listed in the table must be of a similar design but with less cover thickness. The fire resistance in all instances shall be the fire resistance recommended in the table. This is subject to the following limitations:
The actual element in the rehabilitated building shall be constructed of the same materials as listed in the table. Only the following dimensions may vary from those specified: for walls, the overall thickness must exceed that specified in the table; for floor/ceiling assemblies, the thickness of the cover and the slab must be greater than, or equal to, that specified in the table; for other structural elements, the thickness of the cover must be greater than that specified in the table.
All penetrations in the building element or its cover for services such as electricity, plumbing or HVAC shall be packed with noncombustible cementitious materials and so fixed that the packing material will not fall out when it loses its water of hydration.
The effects of age and wear and tear shall be repaired so that the building element is sound and the original thickness of all components, particularly covers and floor slabs, is maintained.
This approach is an application of the “thickness design” concept presented in Section 3.3 of the guideline. There should be many instances when a thicker building element was utilized than the one listed in the Appendix tables. This guideline recognizes the inherent superiority of a thicker design. (Note: “Thickness design” for floor/ceiling assemblies and structural elements refers to cover and slab thickness rather than total thickness.)
The “thickness design” concept is essentially a special case of Harmathy’s Rules (specifically Rules 1 and 2). It should be recognized that the only source of data is the Appendix tables. If other data are used, it must be in connection with the approach below.
4.3 The fire resistance of building elements can be established by applying Harmathy’s Ten Rules of Fire Resistance Ratings as set forth in Section 3.2 of the guideline. This is subject to the following limitations:
The data from the tables can be utilized subject to the limitations in Section 4.2.
Test reports from recognized journals or published papers can be used to support data utilized in applying Harmathy’s Rules.
Calculations utilizing recognized and well established computational techniques can be used in applying Harmathy’s Rules. These include, but are not limited to, analysis of heat flow, mechanical properties, deflections and load bearing capacity.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE RESOURCE A-15
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
RESOURCE A-16 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX
INTRODUCTION
The fire-resistance tables that follow are a part of Resource A and provide a tabular form of assigning fire-resistance ratings to various archaic building elements and assemblies.
CFC § 7-11 High relevance — show source text
where:
R = The fire-resistance rating of the assembly (hours).
R 1 , R 2 and R n = The fire-resistance rating of the individual wythes (hours). Values for R n0.59 for use in Equation 7-11 are given in Table 722.4.1(3).
722.4.2.1 Multiwythe walls of different material. For walls that consist of two or more wythes of different materials (concrete or concrete masonry units) in combination with clay masonry units, the fire-resistance rating of the different materials shall be permitted to be determined from Table 722.2.1.1 for concrete; Table 722.3.2 for concrete masonry units or Table 722.4.1(1) or Table 722.4.1(2) for clay and tile masonry units.
722.4.3 Reinforced clay masonry lintels. Fire-resistance ratings for clay masonry lintels shall be determined based on the nominal width of the lintel and the minimum covering for the longitudinal reinforcement in accordance with Table 722.4.1(5).
722.4.4 Reinforced clay masonry columns. The fire-resistance ratings shall be determined based on the last plan dimension of the column in accordance with Table 722.4.1(6). The minimum cover for longitudinal reinforcement shall be 2 inches (51 mm).
722.5 Steel assemblies. The provisions of this section contain procedures by which the fire-resistance ratings of steel assemblies are established by calculations.
722.5.1 Structural steel columns. The fire-resistance ratings of structural steel columns shall be based on the size of the element and the type of protection provided in accordance with this section.
TABLE 722.5.1(1)—W/D RATIOS FOR STEEL COLUMNS Col2 Col3 STRUCTURAL SHAPE CONTOUR PROFILE BOX PROFILE W14 × 233 2.55 3.65 × 211 2.32 3.35 × 193 2.14 3.09 × 176 1.96 2.85 × 159 1.78 2.60 × 145 1.64 2.39 × 132 1.56 2.25 × 120 1.42 2.06 × 109 1.29 1.88 × 99 1.18 1.72 × 90 1.08 1.58 × 82 1.23 1.68 × 74 1.12 1.53 × 68 1.04 1.41 × 61 0.928 1.28 × 53 0.915 1.21 × 48 0.835 1.10 × 43 0.752 0.99 W12 × 190 2.50 3.51 × 170 2.26 3.20 × 152 2.04 2.90 × 136 1.86 2.63 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-79
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
|TABLE 722.5.
CFC § 7-17 High relevance — show source text
Equation 7-17 h 2 = h 1 [( W 1 / D 1 ) + 0.60] / [( W 2 / D 2 ) + 0.60]
where:
h = Thickness of SFRM in inches.
W = Weight of the structural steel beam or girder in pounds per linear foot.
D = Heated perimeter of the structural steel beam in inches.
Subscript 1 refers to the beam and SFRM thickness in the approved assembly.
Subscript 2 refers to the substitute beam or girder and the required thickness of SFRM .
The fire resistance of structural steel beams and girders protected with intumescent fire-resistive materials shall be determined on the basis of fire-resistance tests in accordance with Section 703.2.
722.5.2.2.1 Minimum thickness. The use of Equation 7-17 is subject to the following conditions:
The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio for the substitute beam or girder (W 2 /D 2 ) shall be not less than 0.37.
The thickness of fire protection materials calculated for the substitute beam or girder (T 1 ) shall be not less than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm).
The unrestrained or restrained beam rating shall be not less than 1 hour.
Where used to adjust the material thickness for a restrained beam, the use of this procedure is limited to structural steel sections classified as compact in accordance with AISC 360.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-97
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
722.5.2.3 Structural steel trusses. The fire resistance of structural steel trusses protected with fire-resistant materials sprayed to each of the individual truss elements shall be permitted to be determined in accordance with this section. The thickness of the fire-resistant material shall be determined in accordance with Section 722.5.1.3. The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio ( W/D ) of truss elements that can be simultaneously exposed to fire on all sides shall be determined on the same basis as columns, as specified in Section 722.5.1.1. The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio ( W/D ) of truss elements that directly support floor or roof assembly shall be determined on the same basis as beams and girders, as specified in Section 722.5.2.1.
The fire resistance of structural steel trusses protected with intumescent fire-resistive materials shall be determined on the basis of fire resistance tests in accordance with Section 703.2.
722.6 Wood assemblies. The provisions of this section contain procedures by which the fire-resistance ratings of wood assemblies are established by calculations.
722.6.1 General. This section contains procedures for calculating the fire-resistance ratings of walls, floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies based in part on the standard method of testing referenced in Section 703.2.
722.6.1.1 Maximum fire-resistance rating. Fire-resistance ratings calculated for assemblies using the methods in Section 722.6 shall be limited to not more than 1 hour.
CFC § 7-97 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-97
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
722.5.2.3 Structural steel trusses. The fire resistance of structural steel trusses protected with fire-resistant materials sprayed to each of the individual truss elements shall be permitted to be determined in accordance with this section. The thickness of the fire-resistant material shall be determined in accordance with Section 722.5.1.3. The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio ( W/D ) of truss elements that can be simultaneously exposed to fire on all sides shall be determined on the same basis as columns, as specified in Section 722.5.1.1. The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio ( W/D ) of truss elements that directly support floor or roof assembly shall be determined on the same basis as beams and girders, as specified in Section 722.5.2.1.
The fire resistance of structural steel trusses protected with intumescent fire-resistive materials shall be determined on the basis of fire resistance tests in accordance with Section 703.2.
722.6 Wood assemblies. The provisions of this section contain procedures by which the fire-resistance ratings of wood assemblies are established by calculations.
722.6.1 General. This section contains procedures for calculating the fire-resistance ratings of walls, floor/ceiling and roof/ceiling assemblies based in part on the standard method of testing referenced in Section 703.2.
722.6.1.1 Maximum fire-resistance rating. Fire-resistance ratings calculated for assemblies using the methods in Section 722.6 shall be limited to not more than 1 hour.
722.6.1.2 Dissimilar membranes. Where dissimilar membranes are used on a wall assembly that requires consideration of fire exposure from both sides, the calculation shall be made from the least fire-resistant (weaker) side.
722.6.2 Walls, floors and roofs. These procedures apply to both load-bearing and nonload-bearing assemblies.
TABLE 722.6.2(1)—TIME ASSIGNED TO WALLBOARD MEMBRANES ON WOOD FRAMEa, b, c, d Col2 ** DESCRIPTION OF FINISH** TIMEe (minutes) 3/8-inch wood structural panel bonded with exterior glue 5 15/32-inch wood structural panel bonded with exterior glue 10 19/32-inch wood structural panel bonded with exterior glue 15 3/8-inch gypsum wallboard 10 1/2-inch gypsum wallboard 15 5/8-inch gypsum wallboard 30 1/2-inch Type X gypsum wallboard 25 5/8-inch Type X gypsum wallboard 40 Double3/8-inch gypsum wallboard 25 1/2-inch +3/8-inch gypsum wallboard 35 Double1/2-inch gypsum wallboard 40 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. These values apply only where membranes are installed on framing members that are spaced 16 inches o.c. or less.
b. Gypsum wallboard installed over framing or furring shall be installed so that all edges are supported, except5/8-inch Type X gypsum wallboard shall be permitted to be
installed horizontally with the horizontal joints staggered 24 inches each side and unsupported but finished.
c.CFC § 216.1 High relevance — show source text
The calculated fire resistance of specific materials or combinations of materials shall be established by one of the following:
- Concrete, concrete masonry and clay masonry assemblies shall be permitted in accordance with ACI 216.1/TMS 0216.
- Precast and precast, prestressed concrete assemblies shall be permitted in accordance with PCI 124.
- Steel assemblies shall be permitted in accordance with Chapter 5 of ASCE 29.
- Exposed wood members and wood decking shall be permitted in accordance with Chapter 16 of ANSI/AWC NDS.
722.2 Concrete assemblies. The provisions of this section contain procedures by which the fire-resistance ratings of concrete assemblies are established by calculations.
722.2.1 Concrete walls. Cast-in-place and precast concrete walls shall comply with Section 722.2.1.1. Multiwythe concrete walls shall comply with Section 722.2.1.2. Joints between precast panels shall comply with Section 722.2.1.3. Concrete walls with gypsum wallboard or plaster finish shall comply with Section 722.2.1.4.
722.2.1.1 Cast-in-place or precast walls. The minimum equivalent thicknesses of cast-in-place or precast concrete walls for fireresistance ratings of 1 hour to 4 hours are shown in Table 722.2.1.1. For solid walls with flat vertical surfaces, the equivalent thickness is the same as the actual thickness. The values in Table 722.2.1.1 apply to plain, reinforced or prestressed concrete walls.
TABLE 722.2.1.1—MINIMUM EQUIVALENT THICKNESS OF
CAST-IN-PLACE OR PRECAST CONCRETE WALLS, LOAD-BEARING OR NONLOAD-BEARINGCol2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 CONCRETE TYPE MINIMUM SLAB THICKNESS (inches) FOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OF MINIMUM SLAB THICKNESS (inches) FOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OF MINIMUM SLAB THICKNESS (inches) FOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OF MINIMUM SLAB THICKNESS (inches) FOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OF MINIMUM SLAB THICKNESS (inches) FOR FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OF CONCRETE TYPE 1 hour 11/2 hours 2 hours 3 hours 4 hours Siliceous 3.5 4.3 5.0 6.2 7.0 Carbonate 3.2 4.0 4.6 5.7 6.6 Sand-lightweight 2.7 3.3 3.8 4.6 5.4 Lightweight 2.5 3.1 3.6 4.4 5.1 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. CFC § 0.59 High relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
Values for R n 0.59 for use in Equation 7-10 are given in Table 722.4.1(3). The coefficient for each continuous airspace of 1 / 2 inch to 3 [1] / 2 inches (12.7 to 89 mm) separating two individual wythes shall be 0.3.
722.4.1.4 Nonsymmetrical assemblies. For a wall without finish on one side or having different types or thicknesses of finish on each side, the calculation procedures of this section shall be performed twice, assuming either side to be the fire-exposed side of the wall. The fire resistance of the wall shall not exceed the lower of the two values determined.
Exception: For exterior walls with a fire separation distance greater than 5 feet (1524 mm), the fire shall be assumed to occur on the interior side only.
722.4.2 Multiwythe walls. The fire-resistance rating for walls or partitions consisting of two or more dissimilar wythes shall be permitted to be determined by the formula: Equation 7-11 R = ( R 10.59 + R 20.59 + ...+ R n 0.59 ) 1.7
where:
R = The fire-resistance rating of the assembly (hours).
R 1 , R 2 and R n = The fire-resistance rating of the individual wythes (hours). Values for R n0.59 for use in Equation 7-11 are given in Table 722.4.1(3).
722.4.2.1 Multiwythe walls of different material. For walls that consist of two or more wythes of different materials (concrete or concrete masonry units) in combination with clay masonry units, the fire-resistance rating of the different materials shall be permitted to be determined from Table 722.2.1.1 for concrete; Table 722.3.2 for concrete masonry units or Table 722.4.1(1) or Table 722.4.1(2) for clay and tile masonry units.
722.4.3 Reinforced clay masonry lintels. Fire-resistance ratings for clay masonry lintels shall be determined based on the nominal width of the lintel and the minimum covering for the longitudinal reinforcement in accordance with Table 722.4.1(5).
722.4.4 Reinforced clay masonry columns. The fire-resistance ratings shall be determined based on the last plan dimension of the column in accordance with Table 722.4.1(6). The minimum cover for longitudinal reinforcement shall be 2 inches (51 mm).
722.5 Steel assemblies. The provisions of this section contain procedures by which the fire-resistance ratings of steel assemblies are established by calculations.
722.5.1 Structural steel columns. The fire-resistance ratings of structural steel columns shall be based on the size of the element and the type of protection provided in accordance with this section.
CFC § 703.2.1.4 High relevance — show source text
703.2.1.4 Supplemental features. Where materials, systems or devices that have not been tested as part of a fire-resistancerated assembly are incorporated into the building element, component or assembly, sufficient data shall be made available to the building official to show that the required fire-resistance rating is not reduced.
703.2.1.5 Exterior bearing walls. In determining the fire-resistance rating of exterior bearing walls, compliance with the ASTM E119 or UL 263 criteria for unexposed surface temperature rise and ignition of cotton waste due to passage of flame or gases is required only for a period of time corresponding to the required fire-resistance rating of an exterior nonbearing wall with the same fire separation distance, and in a building of the same group. Where the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this exception exceeds the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263, the fire exposure time period, water pressure and application duration criteria for the hose stream test of ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall be based on the fire-resistance rating determined in accordance with this section.
703.2.2 Analytical methods. The fire resistance of building elements, components or assemblies established by an analytical method shall be by any of the methods listed in this section, based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263.
Fire-resistance designs documented in approved sources.
Prescriptive designs of fire-resistance-rated building elements, components or assemblies as prescribed in Section 721.
Calculations in accordance with Section 722.
Engineering analysis based on a comparison of building element, component or assemblies designs having fire-resistance ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263.
Fire-resistance designs certified by an approved agency.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
�
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
703.2.3 Approved alternate method. The fire resistance of building elements, components or assemblies not complying with Section 703.2.1 or 703.2.2 shall be permitted to be established by an alternative protection method in accordance with Section 104.2.3.
703.3 Noncombustibility tests. The tests indicated in Section 703.3.1 shall serve as criteria for acceptance of building materials as set forth in Sections 602.2, 602.3 and 602.4 in Types I, II, III and IV construction. The term “noncombustible” does not apply to the flame spread characteristics of interior finish or trim materials. A material shall not be classified as a noncombustible building construction material if it is subject to an increase in combustibility or flame spread beyond the limitations herein established through the effects of age, moisture or other atmospheric conditions.
703.3.1 Noncombustible materials. Materials required to be noncombustible shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E136. Alternately, materials required to be noncombustible shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E2652 using the acceptance criteria prescribed by ASTM E136.
CFC § 0.125 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Materials having a structural base of noncombustible material as determined in accordance with ASTM E136, or with ASTM E2652 using the acceptance criteria prescribed by ASTM E136, with a surfacing of not more than 0.125 inch (3.18 mm) in thickness having a flame spread index not greater than 50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 shall be acceptable as noncombustible.
703.4 Fire-resistance-rated glazing. Fire-resistance-rated glazing, when tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 and complying with the requirements of Section 707, shall be permitted. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall bear a label marked in accordance with Table 716.1(1) issued by an agency and shall be permanently identified on the glazing.
703.5 Marking and identification. Where there is an accessible concealed floor, floor-ceiling or attic space, fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and smoke partitions or any other wall required to have protected openings or penetrations shall be effectively and permanently identified with signs or stenciling in the concealed space. Such identification shall:
- Be located within 15 feet (4572 mm) of the end of each wall and at intervals not exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) measured horizontally along the wall or partition.
- Include lettering not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in height with a minimum [3] / 8 -inch (9.5 mm) stroke in a contrasting color incorporating the suggested wording, “FIRE AND/OR SMOKE BARRIER—PROTECT ALL OPENINGS,” or other wording.
703.6 Determination of noncombustible protection time contribution. The time, in minutes, contributed to the fire-resistance rating by the noncombustible protection of mass timber building elements, components, or assemblies, shall be established through a comparison of assemblies tested using procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263. The test assemblies shall be identical in construction, loading and materials, other than the noncombustible protection. The two test assemblies shall be tested to the same criteria of structural failure with the following conditions:
- Test Assembly 1 shall be without protection.
- Test Assembly 2 shall include the representative noncombustible protection. The protection shall be fully defined in terms of configuration details, attachment details, joint sealing details, accessories and all other relevant details.
The noncombustible protection time contribution shall be determined by subtracting the fire-resistance time, in minutes, of Test Assembly 1 from the fire-resistance time, in minutes, of Test Assembly 2.
703.7 Sealing of adjacent mass timber elements. In buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction, sealant or adhesive shall be provided to resist the passage of air in the following locations:
- At abutting edges and intersections of mass timber building elements required to be fire-resistance rated.
- At abutting intersections of mass timber building elements and building elements of other materials where both are required to be fire-resistance rated.
Sealants shall meet the requirements of ASTM C920. Adhesives shall meet the requirements of ASTM D3498.
Exception: Sealants or adhesives need not be provided where they are not a required component of a tested fire-resistance-rated assembly.
SECTION 704—FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING OF STRUCTURAL MEMBERS
704.1 Requirements. The fire-resistance ratings of structural members and assemblies shall comply with this section and the requirements for the type of construction as specified in Table 601.
CFC § 716.1.2.3 High relevance — show source text
Fire-resistance-rated glaz-
ing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3, shall be permitted.
i. Two doors, each with a fire rating of 20 minutes, installed on opposite sides of the same opening in a fire partition, shall be deemed equivalent in fire protection rating to one
45-minute fire door.|For SI: 1 square inch = 645.2 mm.
a. Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested to ASTM E119 in accordance with Section 716.1.2.3 shall be permitted, in the maximum size tested.
b. Under the column heading “Fire-rated glazing marking door vision panel,” W refers to the fire-resistance rating of the glazing, not the frame.
c. See Section 716.1.2.2.1 and Table 716.1(1) for additional permitted markings.
d. Two doors, each with a fire protection rating of 11/2 hours, installed on opposite sides of the same opening in a fire wall, shall be deemed equivalent in fire protection rating to
one 3-hour fire door.
e. As required in Section 706.4.
f. As allowed in Section 4.6 of NFPA 221.
g. See Section 716.2.5.1.2.
h. Fire-protection-rated glazing is not permitted for fire barriers required by Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_ to enclose energy storage systems. Fire-resistance-rated glaz-
ing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3, shall be permitted.
i. Two doors, each with a fire rating of 20 minutes, installed on opposite sides of the same opening in a fire partition, shall be deemed equivalent in fire protection rating to one
45-minute fire door.|For SI: 1 square inch = 645.2 mm.
a. Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested to ASTM E119 in accordance with Section 716.1.2.3 shall be permitted, in the maximum size tested.
b. Under the column heading “Fire-rated glazing marking door vision panel,” W refers to the fire-resistance rating of the glazing, not the frame.
c. See Section 716.1.2.2.1 and Table 716.1(1) for additional permitted markings.
d. Two doors, each with a fire protection rating of 11/2 hours, installed on opposite sides of the same opening in a fire wall, shall be deemed equivalent in fire protection rating to
one 3-hour fire door.
e. As required in Section 706.4.
f. As allowed in Section 4.6 of NFPA 221.
g. See Section 716.2.5.1.2.
h. Fire-protection-rated glazing is not permitted for fire barriers required by Section 1207 of the_California Fire Code_ to enclose energy storage systems. Fire-resistance-rated glaz-
ing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3, shall be permitted.
i. Two doors, each with a fire rating of 20 minutes, installed on opposite sides of the same opening in a fire partition, shall be deemed equivalent in fire protection rating to one
45-minute fire door.|For SI: 1 square inch = 645.2 mm.
a.CFC § 704.1.1 High relevance — show source text
704.1.1 Supporting construction. The fire-resistance ratings of supporting structural members and assemblies shall be not less than the ratings required for the fire-resistance-rated assemblies supported by the structural members.
Exception: Structural members and assemblies that support fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers and horizontal assemblies as provided in Sections 707.5, 708.4, 709.4 and 711.2, respectively.
704.2 Protection of the primary structural frame. Members of the primary structural frame that are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating shall be provided individual encasement protection by protecting them on all sides for the full length, including connections to other structural members, with materials having the required fire-resistance rating. Where a column extends through a ceiling, the encasement protection shall be continuous from the top of the foundation or floor/ceiling assembly below through the ceiling space to the top of the column.
Exceptions:
- Individual encasement protection on all sides shall be permitted on all exposed sides provided that the extent of protection is in accordance with the required fire-resistance rating, as determined in Section 703.
7-4 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
Primary structural members other than columns that do not support more than two floors or one floor and roof, or a load-bearing wall or a nonload-bearing wall more than two stories high, are permitted to be protected by the membrane of a fire-resistance-rated wall or horizontal assembly where the membrane provides the required fire-resistance rating.
Columns that meet the limitations of Section 704.3.1.
704.3 Protection of secondary structural members. Secondary structural members that are required to have protection to achieve a fire-resistance rating shall be protected by individual encasement protection, or by the membrane of a fire-resistance-rated wall or horizontal assembly where the membrane provides the required fire-resistance rating.
704.3.1 Light-frame construction. Studs, columns and boundary elements that are integral elements in walls of light-frame construction and are located entirely between the top and bottom plates or tracks shall be permitted to have required fire-resistance ratings provided by the membrane protection provided for the wall.
704.3.2 Horizontal assemblies. Horizontal assemblies are permitted to be protected with a membrane or ceiling where the membrane or ceiling provides the required fire-resistance rating and is installed in accordance with Section 711.
704.4 Truss protection. The required thickness and construction of fire-resistance-rated assemblies enclosing trusses shall be based on the results of full-scale tests or combinations of tests on truss components or on approved calculations based on such tests that satisfactorily demonstrate that the assembly has the required fire resistance.
704.5 Attachments to structural members. The edges of lugs, brackets, rivets and bolt heads attached to structural members shall be permitted to extend to within 1 inch (25 mm) of the surface of the fire protection.
Frequently asked questions
What tests are required to establish a fire‑resistance rating?
The code requires fire‑resistance ratings for assemblies to be determined by the standard furnace tests in ASTM E119 or UL 263 when using tested assemblies, per §703.2.1. These tests establish the time‑temperature and hose‑stream/structural criteria used to assign hour ratings .
Can I use calculations or prescriptive tables instead of full‑scale tests?
Yes. §703.2.2 permits analytical methods and prescriptive designs and points to calculation procedures in §722 for specific materials. Chapter 722 includes calculation procedures and tables (for concrete, masonry, steel and wood) and references standards such as ACI 216.1, PCI 124 and ASCE guidance where applicable .
How are penetrations, joints and fire‑rated glazing handled?
Penetrations and joint systems must be protected using systems tested as part of a listed fire‑resistance‑rated assembly or by tested firestop/joint systems (e.g., ASTM E814 / UL 1479 for through penetrations) as required in §714 and §715. Fire‑resistance‑rated glazing and opening protective ratings are covered in §703.4 and §716, with marking and sizing limits set by the code and referenced test methods .
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)
Ask about the CFC
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Fire Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial