CFC · California Fire Code
How are fire‑resistance ratings established and tested?
The code says fire‑resistance ratings are set primarily by standard furnace tests (ASTM E119 or UL 263) and assigned exactly as tested (without sprinklers), with special rules for nonsymmetrical walls, added components, and approved alternate methods; check **§ 703.1**, **§ 703.2**, **§ 703.2.1** and **§ 703.2.3** for the controlling requirements.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
The California code requires that a fire‑resistance rating for building elements, components or assemblies be established by standardized testing or by approved alternative methods. The primary test standards called out are ASTM E119 or UL 263, and the rating is normally determined without use of automatic sprinklers or other suppression systems unless an approved alternate method is used. See § 703.1 and § 703.2 for scope and the basic rule, and § 703.2.1 for the required test standards; alternate methods are allowed under § 703.2.3.
The single most important rule: Fire‑resistance ratings are set by the standard furnace tests (ASTM E119 or UL 263) unless an approved analytical or alternate approach is used — and those tests must be performed without sprinklers unless an approved alternate is accepted by the authority having jurisdiction.
Requirements in detail
What counts as the baseline method
- Tested assemblies: A rating shall be determined by the test procedures in ASTM E119 or UL 263. This is the baseline method for fire‑resistance ratings. § 703.2.1.
Key subrequirements for tested assemblies (selected)
- Nonsymmetrical wall construction: If a wall is nonsymmetrical, it must be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace and the assigned rating is the shorter of the two test durations. However, if the applicant furnishes acceptable evidence that the wall was already tested with the least fire‑resistant side exposed, the building official may accept that single test. § 703.2.1.1.
- Combustible components: Combustible aggregates/admixtures are permitted in some rated materials if the resulting tested assembly meets the test requirements. § 703.2.1.2.
- Restrained classification: Assemblies tested under ASTM E119 / UL 263 are not automatically considered “restrained.” To claim a restrained classification, a registered design professional must provide satisfactory evidence in accordance with the test standards. § 703.2.1.3.
- Supplemental features: If you add materials or devices that were not part of the tested assembly, you must provide sufficient data to the building official to show the added items do not reduce the required rating. § 703.2.1.4.
- Exterior bearing walls: Special criteria apply for unexposed surface temperature rise and cotton‑waste ignition for exterior bearing walls — see § 703.2.1.5 for how exposure time and hose‑stream test criteria are adjusted.
When testing is not the only option
- The code allows establishing fire‑resistance by approved analytical or prescriptive methods (see related calculation chapters), and by approved alternate protection methods when justified. The alternate method pathway is provided by § 703.2.3 (referencing Section 104.2.3 for alternate protection approvals). § 703.2 and § 703.2.3.
Quick reference table — decision dimensions
| Decision factor | What the code requires / value to check | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Baseline test standard | ASTM E119 or UL 263 to establish a fire‑resistance rating | § 703.2.1 |
| Use of sprinklers in test | Ratings are determined without automatic sprinklers or suppression systems (unless alternate method is used) | § 703.2 |
| Nonsymmetrical wall test | Test both faces; assign the shorter duration from the two tests (unless evidence shows least‑resistant face was tested) | § 703.2.1.1 |
| Added/un‑tested components | Must provide data showing no reduction in rating when supplemental features are included | § 703.2.1.4 |
| Alternate methods allowed | Alternative protection methods allowed with approval per § 703.2.3 (see § 104.2.3) | § 703.2.3 |
Exceptions & special cases
- If a wall is nonsymmetrical but you can prove the available test was performed with the least fire‑resistant face exposed, the building official may accept a single test instead of two (§ 703.2.1.1).
- Supplemental/un‑tested items (e.g., sensors, surface finishes, penetrations) may be incorporated only if the applicant supplies data that shows the tested rating is not reduced (§ 703.2.1.4).
- For exterior bearing walls, the code modifies the temperature‑rise / cotton‑waste criteria and the hose‑stream parameters based on fire separation distance and building group — read § 703.2.1.5 carefully for how test durations and hose‑stream parameters are determined.
- Assemblies that do not meet the tested or analytical routes may still be accepted through an approved alternate method under § 703.2.3, but that requires approval under the alternate‑methods process.
Common mistakes
- Misreading the standard: assuming a manufacturer’s in‑house test equals ASTM E119/UL 263 compliance — the code requires the ASTM/UL procedures or approved analytical alternatives (§ 703.2.1).
- Forgetting nonsymmetry: assigning a rating based on a single‑face test for a nonsymmetrical wall without satisfying the evidence requirement — the shorter test result governs unless accepted evidence is provided (§ 703.2.1.1).
- Adding untested components without documentation: incorporating items not in the tested assembly without furnishing sufficient data to the building official (see § 703.2.1.4).
- Assuming sprinkler credit in test ratings: the baseline determination is without sprinklers, so don’t plan designs that rely on sprinkler presence to meet the tested rating unless an approved alternate is used (§ 703.2).
Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers
Scenario: A designer needs to assign a fire‑resistance rating for an internal partition that has a tested assembly listing showing 2.0 hours when tested with Face A exposed, and 1.5 hours when tested with Face B exposed. The partition is nonsymmetrical.
How to apply the code:
- The baseline standard is ASTM E119 / UL 263 per § 703.2.1 — use those test results.
- Because the wall is nonsymmetrical, test results from both faces must be compared and the shorter duration governs — assign 1.5 hours as the rating. This follows § 703.2.1.1.
- If the designer can document and persuade the building official that the 1.5‑hour test exposed the least fire‑resistant side (and the official accepts that evidence), a single test might suffice — otherwise the 1.5‑hour rating stands. § 703.2.1.1.
Result: Assigned fire‑resistance rating = 1.5 hours (per the code rule that assigns the shorter of the two face tests).
Related provisions (select)
- § 703.1 — Scope (materials must conform to Chapter requirements).
- § 703.2 — Fire‑resistance determination methods (test, analytical, alternate).
- § 703.2.1 — Tested assemblies: ASTM E119 / UL 263 requirement and subclauses.
- § 703.2.3 — Approved alternate methods (reference to § 104.2.3).
- § 703.3 / § 703.3.1 — Noncombustibility test standards (ASTM E136 / ASTM E2652) for materials required to be noncombustible. Useful when determining if a component is allowed in a rated assembly.
- § 703.4 — Fire‑resistance‑rated glazing when tested in accordance with ASTM E119 / UL 263.
- § 703.5 — Marking and identification requirements for rated elements in concealed spaces.
(These related sections are in the same chapter and are commonly used when applying the test and approval requirements noted above.)
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.
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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 § 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
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FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
|TABLE 722.5.
CFC § 716.1.2.3 High relevance — show source text
Fire-resistance-rated
glazing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3, shall be permitted.|NP = Not Permitted.
a. Not permitted except fire-resistance-rated glazing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3.
b. XXX = The fire rating duration period in minutes, which shall be equal to the fire-resistance rating required for the wall assembly.
c. 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
glazing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3, shall be permitted.|NP = Not Permitted.
a. Not permitted except fire-resistance-rated glazing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3.
b. XXX = The fire rating duration period in minutes, which shall be equal to the fire-resistance rating required for the wall assembly.
c. 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
glazing assemblies tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263, as specified in Section 716.1.2.3, shall be permitted.|2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-29
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FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
716.1.1 Alternative methods for determining fire protection ratings. The application of any of the alternative methods specified in this section shall be based on the fire exposure and acceptance criteria specified in NFPA 252, NFPA 257, UL 9, UL 10B or UL 10C. The required fire protection rating of an opening protective shall be permitted to be established by any of the following methods or procedures:
- Designs documented in approved sources.
- Engineering analysis based on a comparison of opening protective designs having fire protection ratings as determined by the test procedures set forth in NFPA 252, NFPA 257, UL 9, UL 10B or UL 10C.
- Alternative protection methods as allowed by Section 104.2.3.
716.1.2 Glazing. Glazing used in fire door assemblies and fire window assemblies shall comply with this section in addition to the requirements of Sections 716.2 and 716.3, respectively.
716.1.2.1 Safety glazing. Fire-protection-rated glazing and fire-resistance-rated glazing installed in fire door assemblies and fire window assemblies shall comply with the safety glazing requirements of Chapter 24 where applicable.
716.1.2.2 Marking fire-rated glazing assemblies. Fire-rated glazing assemblies shall be marked in accordance with Tables 716.1(1), 716.1(2) and 716.1(3).
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 § 7-3 High relevance — show source text
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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 § 0.59 High relevance — show source text
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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 § 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 § 25.4 High relevance — show source text
The fire-resistance rating for this thickness exceeds 4 hours.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
a. Dry unit weight of 35 pcf or less and consisting of cellular, perlite or_vermiculite_ concrete.
b. The_R n_ 0.59 value for one1/2″ to 31/2″ airspace is 3.3. The_Rn_
0.59 value for two1/2″ to 31/2″ airspaces is 6.7.
c. The fire-resistance rating for this thickness exceeds 4 hours.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
a. Dry unit weight of 35 pcf or less and consisting of cellular, perlite or_vermiculite_ concrete.
b. The_R n_ 0.59 value for one1/2″ to 31/2″ airspace is 3.3. The_Rn_
0.59 value for two1/2″ to 31/2″ airspaces is 6.7.
c. The fire-resistance rating for this thickness exceeds 4 hours.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
a. Dry unit weight of 35 pcf or less and consisting of cellular, perlite or_vermiculite_ concrete.
b. The_R n_ 0.59 value for one1/2″ to 31/2″ airspace is 3.3. The_Rn_
0.59 value for two1/2″ to 31/2″ airspaces is 6.7.
c. The fire-resistance rating for this thickness exceeds 4 hours.|TABLE 722.2.1.2(2)—FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS BASED ON R0.59 Col2 Ra, MINUTES R0.59 60 11.20 120 16.85 180 21.41 240 25.37 a. Based on Equation 7-4. a. Based on Equation 7-4. For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
722.2.1.2.1 Two or more wythes. The fire-resistance rating for wall panels consisting of two or more wythes shall be permitted to be determined by the formula: Equation 7-4 R = ( R 10.59 + R 20.59 +...+ R n 0.59 ) 1.7
where:
R = The fire endurance of the assembly, minutes. R 1 , R 2 , and R n = The fire endurances of the individual wythes, minutes. Values of R n0.59 for use in Equation 7-4 are given in Table 722.2.1.2(1). Calculated fire-resistance ratings are shown in Table 722.2.1.2(2).
CFC § 7-17 Medium 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 § 7-65 Medium relevance — show source text
The membrane shall consist of waterproof paper or_ plastic sheets conforming to ASTM C171, Sheet Materials for Curing Concrete, or Type 15 roofing felt conform- ing to ASTM D226, D250 or D227, or Federal Specification UUB790, Building Paper Vegetable Fiber: (Kraft, Waterproofed, Water Repellent and Fire-resistant) Type 1, Grade B. The sheets shall be securely fastened to the subfloor.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-65
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
3. Regardless of the provisions of Subsections 6.1 and 6.2 in Section 6, of Bulletin No. 65, relating to applicator qualifica- tions and warranty, these subsections are omitted from this chapter.
SECTION 722—CALCULATED FIRE RESISTANCE
722.1 General. The provisions of this section contain procedures by which the fire resistance of specific materials or combinations of materials is established by calculations. These procedures apply only to the information contained in this section and shall not be otherwise used. 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,
Frequently asked questions
What exact test standard must be used to establish a fire‑resistance rating?
The code requires the test procedures set forth in ASTM E119 or UL 263 for fire‑resistance ratings of assemblies (see § 703.2.1).
Can a sprinkler system be included during the fire test?
No — the fire‑resistance rating is determined without automatic sprinklers or other suppression systems unless the assembly is accepted under an approved alternate method (see § 703.2 and § 703.2.3).
If I add a component (e.g., conduit, sensor) to a listed assembly, do I need to retest?
You must provide sufficient data to the building official to show the added components do not reduce the required rating; otherwise the tested rating cannot be presumed unchanged (§ 703.2.1.4).
For a nonsymmetrical wall, which test result decides the rating?
The shorter duration obtained from testing both faces governs, unless acceptable evidence shows the test already used the least fire‑resistant side and the building official accepts that evidence (§ 703.2.1.1).
How can I use an alternate (non‑test) method to establish rating?
Alternate protection methods are permitted with approval under § 703.2.3, which invokes the alternate‑methods approval process (see § 104.2.3 for procedure).
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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