CFC · California Fire Code

What are the requirements for fire‑ and smoke‑protected doors, windows and fire‑rated glazing?

If an opening must be protected, you must use listed, labeled fire doors, smoke doors or fire‑rated glazing that meet the testing, size and labeling rules in Section 716 and keep them inspected and maintained per Section 705 (NFPA 80/105). Check the 100 in² door glazing limit, the 25% limit for interior fire window area, and the mixed‑openings formula in §705.9.4; consult the full tables in Chapter 7 for allowable opening areas and the specific listing data required.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

In plain English: where an opening must be protected because of wall type, adjacency, or smoke separation, the opening must be protected by listed opening protectives — i.e., fire door assemblies, smoke and draft control doors, fire window assemblies, or fire‑/fire‑protection‑rated glazing — installed and labeled and maintained per the code testing, labeling and installation rules in § 716 and the inspection/maintenance rules in § 705. NFPA 80 and NFPA 105 are adopted for inspection/maintenance of fire and smoke opening protectives. See § 705.1–705.2 and § 716.1–716.3 for the controlling rules.

Openings required to be protected must use listed, labeled assemblies (doors, frames, glazing or windows) that meet the test standard and size/labeling limits in Section 716 and be inspected/maintained per Section 705 (and NFPA 80/NFPA 105).

Requirements in detail

Scope and where these apply

  • Openings required to be protected (exterior walls with limited fire separation, openings in fire walls, fire barriers, smoke barriers, shaft enclosures, interior exit enclosures, etc.) are required to have opening protectives that comply with Section 716. § 705.9.2 points to § 716 as the controlling opening‑protective standard.
  • Maintenance and inspection: opening protectives installed in fire‑resistance‑rated assemblies are to be inspected and maintained in accordance with NFPA 80; those in smoke barriers are maintained per NFPA 80 and NFPA 105. § 705.2 and related subsections require owners to keep inventories and perform annual visual inspections.

Tests and labels (what makes glazing/doors acceptable)

  • Fire door assemblies and fire shutters must be constructed and tested per the test methods listed in § 716.2.1 (for example NFPA 252, UL 10B, UL 10C depending on door type and test protocol).
  • Fire‑protection‑rated glazing and fire‑resistance‑rated glazing must be labeled with the manufacturer, test standard and the rating information required in Table 716.1(1) or Table 716.1(3). See § 716.2.9.5 and § 716.1.2.2.x for labeling identification rules (including “OH – XXX” for glazing that meets hose‑stream and protection requirements).

Size, area and location limits (decision‑relevant numeric thresholds)

  • Glazing in doors: fire‑protection‑rated glazing in doors shall not exceed 100 square inches (0.065 m2); fire‑resistance‑rated glazing in fire doors may exceed 100 square inches only where the glazing is fire‑resistance tested as part of the door and is listed for the size tested. See § 716.2.2.3.1.
  • Fire window assemblies — area limit: the total glazing area in a fire‑protection‑rated window assembly installed in an interior fire partition or fire barrier is limited to 25% of the area of a common wall with any room (area limitation for interior window assemblies). See § 716.3.2.1.2.
  • Nonsymmetrical glazing testing: where glazing is in walls with a fire separation distance of 10 feet or less, nonsymmetrical glazing systems must be tested with both faces exposed and the rating is the shorter of the two tests. See § 716.3.1.2.
  • Prohibited use: fire‑protection‑rated glazing is prohibited in fire walls and fire barriers rated greater than 1 hour, except for limited listed exceptions in § 716.2.5.1.2.

TABLE — Decision‑relevant dimensions, values and where to check

Requirement / threshold Value (common units) When/where it applies Code reference
Maximum fire‑protection glazing allowed in a door 100 in² (0.065 m²) Glazing in fire door assemblies (unless fire‑resistance glazing/testing/listing permits larger) § 716.2.2.3.1
Max glazing area in interior fire window assembly 25% of common wall area Fire‑protection‑rated window assemblies in fire partitions/barriers § 716.3.2.1.2
Nonsymmetrical glazing test requirement Test both faces; rating = shorter result Exterior walls with fire separation distance ≤ 10 ft; fire partitions/barriers § 716.3.1.2
Openings required to be protected — (see next row for mixed formula) Any opening in walls required to have opening protection § 705.9.2
Mixed protected / unprotected openings formula (Ap/ap) + (Au/au) ≤ 1 When both protected and unprotected openings occur on same story exterior wall — use Equation 7‑2 § 705.9.4
Vertical separation of openings when lower opening not ≥ 3/4‑hr protected 3 ft vertical separation (min) or 1‑hr rated spandrel/flame barrier Adjacent story openings within 5 ft horizontally § 705.9.5
Installation/testing standards referenced NFPA 80, NFPA 105, NFPA 252, UL 10B/10C, NFPA 257, UL 9 As noted for inspection and test procedure applicability § 705.2, § 716.2.1, § 716.3.1.1

Labeling, frames, hardware and listing

  • Labels: all fire‑rated glazing and fire doors/frames must bear the manufacturer and third‑party test/listing label and the rating and test method as required in Table 716.1(1) or 716.1(3). See § 716.2.9.5 and § 716.1.2.3.
  • Fire door frames must be labeled showing manufacturer and third‑party inspection agency. Oversized fire doors need either an oversized label or a certificate of inspection from an approved testing agency. See § 716.2.9.2–716.2.9.5.
  • Components (vision kits, light kits, hardware, gasketing) installed as part of a labeled assembly must be listed or classified for that use; smoke and draft doors complying with UL 1784 shall show the letter “S” on the fire‑rating label. See § 716.2.9.1.1 and § 716.2.9.3.

Smoke doors and automatic closing

  • Smoke doors / smoke and draft control doors: must be labeled and, when required (for example in smoke barriers, certain corridor doors), must be automatic‑closing upon detection or tied into the smoke control/sprinkler system per NFPA 105 and local requirements. See § 716.2.9.3 and § 716.2.10 (installation per NFPA 105). Also § 709.5 (smoke barriers) requires openings be protected per § 716.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system may be exempt from certain opening protective requirements (for example, opening protectives where required by § 705 may not be required in some exterior opening scenarios per the exception in § 705.9.2).
  • Fire‑resistance‑rated glazing tested as part of a wall/floor assembly to ASTM E119 / UL 263 is treated differently and is not otherwise required to comply with the standalone glazing rules of § 716 when used as part of a labeled assembly — see § 716.1.2.3.
  • Group I‑2 / R‑2.1 / ambulatory care corridor doors and certain pair door configurations have special vision panel and hold‑open/automatic‑closing provisions in § 709.5.1 and § 909.5.3.1 as cross‑referenced to § 716.2.6.5/6.6. These are special healthcare exceptions for how doors across corridors are treated.
  • Fire walls / fire barriers > 1 hour: in general fire‑protection‑rated glazing is prohibited in these assemblies except where specific listed exceptions permit it; check § 716.2.5.1.2 and related subsections.

Common mistakes

  • Installing non‑listed glazing or glazing that is labeled only as safety or tempered glass (CBC Chapters 24/26) in an opening that requires fire‑protection or fire‑resistance rating — the assembly must be listed and carry the correct OH/T/H labeling per § 716.1.2.2 and § 716.2.9.5.
  • Ignoring the 100 in² glazing limit for fire‑protection‑rated glazing in doors and failing to use listed fire‑resistance glazing when larger vision panels are needed — check § 716.2.2.3.1.
  • Failure to label doors/frames or to install listed gasketing/hardware components as part of the labeled assembly (components must be listed/classified for the assembly per § 716.2.9.1.1).
  • Modifying fire doors or disabling closers — opening protectives and smoke/draft control doors shall not be modified and must be maintained self‑ or automatic‑closing per § 705.2 and § 704.3.

Worked example — exterior wall with mixed protected/unprotected openings

Scenario: an exterior wall story contains protected windows (listed fire‑protection‑rated glazing) totaling A_p = 150 ft², and unprotected windows/doors totaling A_u = 200 ft². The allowable area values (from the applicable table in Chapter 7 — not included in the retrieved snippets) are a_p = 600 ft² for protected openings and a_u = 800 ft² for unprotected openings.

Step 1 — Apply the mixed openings formula (Equation 7‑2): (A_p / a_p) + (A_u / a_u) ≤ 1 — per § 705.9.4.
Step 2 — Plug numbers: (150 / 600) + (200 / 800) = 0.25 + 0.25 = 0.50. Since 0.50 ≤ 1, the mixed openings meet the code equation.
Important note: the actual allowable area denominators (a_p, a_u) depend on building occupancy, fire separation distance, wall fire‑resistance rating and other factors from the tables not included in the retrieved text. You must consult the applicable allowable opening area tables in Chapter 7 (or the code official) to get the correct a_p / a_u values.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 705.1–705.2 — Inspection, maintenance and owner responsibilities for opening protectives; NFPA 80 / NFPA 105 maintenance cross‑reference.
  • § 705.9.2–705.9.6 — Protected/unprotected openings, mixed openings formula, vertical separation limits and sprinkler exceptions.
  • § 716.1 – 716.3 — Definitions, identification/labeling of fire‑rated glazing, fire door assembly test requirements, fire window assemblies and testing under positive pressure (NFPA 257 / UL 9).
  • § 716.2.2.3.1 — Glazing size limits in doors (100 in²).
  • § 716.2.9.3 – 716.2.9.6 — Labeling for smoke and draft control doors, frame labeling and operator labeling for sliding doors.
  • § 709.5 / 909.5.3 — Smoke barrier opening protection cross‑references to § 716 and automatic‑closing/vision panel rules for healthcare corridors.

Note on sources and gaps: The detailed allowable opening area tables (the numeric a_p / a_u reference values used in Equation 7‑2) and the full text of Table 716.1(1)/(3) are not included in the retrieved snippets above; consult the full Chapter 7 tables and Table 716.1 in the California Building Code for exact table values and the full labeling/data requirements.

Code references

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

  • CFC § 716.2.9.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    716.2.9.1.1 Light kits, louvers and components. Listed light kits and louvers and their required preparations shall be considered as part of the labeled door where such installations are done under the listing program of the third-party agency. Fire doors and fire door assemblies shall be permitted to consist of components, including glazing, vision light kits and hardware that are listed or classified and labeled for such use by different third-party agencies.

    716.2.9.2 Oversized doors. Oversized fire doors shall bear an oversized fire door label by an approved agency or shall be provided with a certificate of inspection furnished by an approved testing agency. Where a certificate of inspection is furnished by an approved testing agency, the certificate shall state that the door conforms to the requirements of design, materials and construction, but has not been subjected to the fire test.

    716.2.9.3 Smoke and draft control door labeling requirements. Smoke and draft control doors complying with UL 1784 shall be labeled in accordance with Section 716.2.9.1 and shall show the letter “S” on the fire-rating label of the door. This marking shall indicate that the door and frame assembly are in compliance where listed or labeled gasketing is installed.

    716.2.9.4 Fire door frame labeling requirements. Fire door frames shall be labeled showing the names of the manufacturer and the third-party inspection agency.

    Exception: In Group I-3 doors that are required to be 45 minutes or higher shall be fire-rated assemblies or certified by the manu- facturer as being equivalent to the required standard.

    716.2.9.5 Labeling. Fire-rated glazing shall bear a label or other identification showing the name of the manufacturer, the test standard and information required in Table 716.1(1) that shall be issued by an approved agency and shall be permanently identified on the glazing.

    716.2.9.6 Fire door operator labeling requirements. Fire door operators for horizontal sliding doors shall be labeled and listed for use with the assembly.

    716.2.10 Installation of door assemblies in corridors and smoke barriers. Installation of smoke doors shall be in accordance

    with NFPA 105.

    716.3 Fire window assemblies. Fire window assemblies required by other sections of this code shall comply with the provisions of this section.

    716.3.1 Testing requirements. Fire window assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Sections 716.3.1.1 and 716.3.1.2 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 716.1(3).

    716.3.1.1 Testing under positive pressure. NFPA 257 or UL 9 shall evaluate fire-protection-rated glazing under positive pressure. Within the first 10 minutes of a test, the pressure in the furnace shall be adjusted so not less than two-thirds of the test specimen is above the neutral pressure plane, and the neutral pressure plane shall be maintained at that height for the balance of the test.

    716.3.1.2 Nonsymmetrical glazing systems. Nonsymmetrical fire-protection-rated glazing systems in fire partitions, fire barriers or in exterior walls with a fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) or less pursuant to Section 705 shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire protection rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with NFPA 257 or UL 9.

  • CFC § 909.5.2 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 909.5.2 Testing of leakage area. Compliance with the maximum total leakage area shall be determined by achieving the minimum air pressure difference across the barrier with the system in the smoke control mode for mechanical smoke control systems utilizing the pressurization method. Compliance with the maximum total leakage area of passive smoke control systems shall be verified through methods such as door fan testing or other methods, as approved by the fire code official.

    [F] 909.5.3 Opening protection. Openings in smoke barriers shall be protected by automatic-closing devices actuated by the required controls for the mechanical smoke control system. Door openings shall be protected by fire door assemblies complying with Section 716.

    Exceptions:

    1. Passive smoke control systems with automatic-closing devices actuated by spot-type smoke detectors listed for releasing service installed in accordance with Section 907.3. When used in Group I-2, such detectors shall activate the fire alarm system and shall close all the smoke barrier doors within the effected zone.

    2. Fixed openings between smoke zones that are protected utilizing the airflow method in other than Group I-2.

    3. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed across a corridor in accordance with Section 909.5.3.1, the doors shall be protected in accordance with Section 716. The doors shall not have a center mullion. Positive-latching devices are required. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.

    4. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where such doors are special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding door assemblies installed in accordance with Section 1010.3.3 and are automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6, they shall be protected in accordance with Section 716. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.

    5. Group I-3.

    6. Openings between smoke zones with clear ceiling heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greater and bank-down capacity of greater than 20 minutes as determined by the design fire size. 7. In Group I-2, smoke damper activation may be accomplished by a fire alarm control unit provided that an open area smoke detection system is provided within all areas served by an HVAC system.

    [F] 909.5.3.1 Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where doors are installed across a corridor, the doors shall be automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.5 and shall have a vision panel with fire-protection-rated glazing materials in fire protection-rated frames, the area of which shall not exceed that tested. Vision panels consisting of fire-rated glazing in approved frames shall be provided in each cross-corridor swinging door and at each cross-corridor horizontal-sliding door in a smoke barrier. In Group I-2, where swinging doors are installed across a corridor, such doors shall be opposite swinging pairs.

    [F] 909.5.3.2 Ducts and air transfer openings. Ducts and air transfer openings are required to be protected with a minimum Class II, 250°F (121°C) smoke damper complying with Section 717.

  • CFC § 716.2.9.6 High relevance — show source text

    716.2.9.6 Fire door operator labeling requirements. Fire door operators for horizontal sliding doors shall be labeled and listed for use with the assembly.

    716.2.10 Installation of door assemblies in corridors and smoke barriers. Installation of smoke doors shall be in accordance

    with NFPA 105.

    716.3 Fire window assemblies. Fire window assemblies required by other sections of this code shall comply with the provisions of this section.

    716.3.1 Testing requirements. Fire window assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Sections 716.3.1.1 and 716.3.1.2 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 716.1(3).

    716.3.1.1 Testing under positive pressure. NFPA 257 or UL 9 shall evaluate fire-protection-rated glazing under positive pressure. Within the first 10 minutes of a test, the pressure in the furnace shall be adjusted so not less than two-thirds of the test specimen is above the neutral pressure plane, and the neutral pressure plane shall be maintained at that height for the balance of the test.

    716.3.1.2 Nonsymmetrical glazing systems. Nonsymmetrical fire-protection-rated glazing systems in fire partitions, fire barriers or in exterior walls with a fire separation distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) or less pursuant to Section 705 shall be tested with both faces exposed to the furnace, and the assigned fire protection rating shall be the shortest duration obtained from the two tests conducted in compliance with NFPA 257 or UL 9.

    716.3.2 Performance requirements. Fire window assemblies shall be installed in the assemblies and comply with the fire protection rating specified in Table 716.1(3).

    716.3.2.1 Interior fire window assemblies. Fire-protection-rated glazing used in fire window assemblies located in fire partitions and fire barriers shall be limited to use in assemblies with a maximum fire-resistance rating of 1 hour in accordance with this section.

    716.3.2.1.1 Where [3] / 4 -hour-fire-protection window assemblies permitted. Fire-protection-rated glazing requiring 45minute opening protection in accordance with Table 716.1(3) shall be limited to fire partitions designed in accordance with Section 708 and fire barriers utilized in the applications set forth in Sections 707.3.6, 707.3.7 and 707.3.9 where the fire-resistance rating does not exceed 1 hour. Fire-resistance-rated glazing assemblies tested in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not be subject to the limitations of this section.

    716.3.2.1.1.1 Energy storage system separation. Fire-protection-rated glazing is not permitted for use in fire window assemblies in fire barriers required by Section 1207 of the California Fire Code to enclose energy storage systems.

    716.3.2.1.2 Area limitations. The total area of the glazing in fire-protection-rated window assemblies shall not exceed 25 percent of the area of a common wall with any room.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 7-33

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

  • CFC § 3006.3. High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Elevator hoistway door openings protected in accordance with Section 3006.3.

    716.2.2.2 Door assemblies in other fire partitions. Fire door assemblies required to have a minimum fire protection rating of 20 minutes where located in other fire partitions having a fire-resistance rating of 0.5 hour in accordance with Table 716.1(2) shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C with the hose stream test.

    716.2.2.3 Doors in interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways. Fire door assemblies in interior exit stairways and ramps and exit passageways shall have a maximum transmitted temperature rise of not more than 450°F (250°C) above ambient at the end of 30 minutes of standard fire test exposure.

    Exception: The maximum transmitted temperature rise is not required in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 716.2.2.3.1 Glazing in doors. Fire-protection-rated glazing in excess of 100 square inches (0.065 m [2] ) is not permitted. Fireresistance-rated glazing in excess of 100 square inches (0.065 m [2] ) shall be permitted in fire doors. Listed fire-resistance-rated glazing in a fire door shall have a maximum transmitted temperature rise in accordance with Section 716.2.2.3 when the fire door is tested in accordance with NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C.

    716.2.3 Fire doors. Fire doors installed within a fire door assembly shall meet the fire rating indicated in Table 716.1(2).

    716.2.4 Fire door frames. Fire door frames installed as part of a fire door assembly shall meet the fire rating indicated in Table 716.1(2).

    716.2.5 Glazing in fire door assemblies. Fire-rated glazing conforming to the opening protection requirements in Section 716.2.1 shall be permitted in fire door assemblies.

    716.2.5.1 Size limitations. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall comply with the size limitations in Section 716.2.5.1.1. Fireprotection-rated glazing shall comply with the size limitations of NFPA 80, and as provided in Section 716.2.5.1.2.

    716.2.5.1.1 Fire-resistance-rated glazing in door assemblies in fire walls and fire barriers rated greater than 1 hour. Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested to ASTM E119 or UL 263 and NFPA 252, UL 10B or UL 10C shall be permitted in fire door assemblies located in fire walls and in fire barriers in accordance with Table 716.1(2) to the maximum size tested and in accordance with their listings.

    716.2.5.1.2 Fire-protection-rated glazing in door assemblies in fire walls and fire barriers rated greater than 1 hour. Fire-protection-rated glazing shall be prohibited in fire walls and fire barriers except as provided in Sections 716.2.5.1.2.1 and 716.2.5.1.2.2.

  • CFC § 408.5 High relevance — show source text

    408.5 Protection of vertical openings. Any vertical opening shall be protected by a shaft enclosure in accordance with Section 713, or shall be in accordance with Section 408.5.1.

    408.5.1 Floor openings. The open space in front of a cell tier and connected chases, not exceeding two tiers in height, shall not be considered a vertical shaft and need not meet the fire-resistive shaft enclosure requirements of Section 713.

    408.5.2 Shaft openings in communicating floor levels. Where a floor opening is permitted between communicating floor levels of a housing unit in accordance with Section 408.5.1, plumbing chases serving vertically stacked individual cells contained with the housing unit shall be permitted without a shaft enclosure.

    [BE] 408.6 Smoke barrier. Occupancies in Group I-3 shall have smoke barriers complying with Sections 408.6 and 709 to divide every story occupied by residents for sleeping, or any other story having an occupant load of 50 or more persons, into not fewer than two smoke compartments.

    Exception: Spaces having a direct exit to one of the following, provided that the locking arrangement of the doors involved complies with the requirements for doors at the smoke barrier for the use condition involved:

    1. A public way.
    2. A building separated from the resident housing area by a 2-hour fire-resistance-rated assembly or 50 feet (15 240 mm) of

    open space. 3. A secured yard or court having a holding space 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the housing area that provides 6 square feet (0.56 m [2] ) or more of refuge area per occupant, including residents, staff and visitors. 4. Holding facility.

    [BE] 408.6.1 Smoke compartments. The number of residents in any smoke compartment shall be not more than 200. The distance of travel to a door in a smoke barrier from any room door required as exit access shall be not greater than 150 feet (45 720 mm). The distance of travel to a door in a smoke barrier from any point in a room shall be not greater than 200 feet (60 960 mm).

    Exception: The travel distance may be increased by 50 feet from areas open only to the staff.

    [BE] 408.6.2 Refuge area. Not less than 6 net square feet (0.56 m [2] ) per occupant shall be provided on each side of each smoke barrier for the total number of occupants in adjoining smoke compartments. This space shall be readily available wherever the occupants are moved across the smoke barrier in a fire emergency.

    [BE] 408.6.3 Independent egress. A means of egress shall be provided from each smoke compartment created by smoke barriers without having to return through the smoke compartment from which means of egress originates.

    408.7 Security glazing. In occupancies in Group I-3, windows and doors in 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707, fire partitions constructed in accordance with Section 708 and smoke barriers constructed in accordance with Section 709 shall be permitted to have security glazing installed provided that the following conditions are met.

    1. Individual panels of glazing shall not exceed 1,296 square inches (0.84 m [2] ).
    2. The glazing shall be protected on both sides by an automatic sprinkler system. The sprinkler system shall be designed to, when actuated, wet completely the entire surface of any glazing affected by fire.
  • CFC § 705.9.2 High relevance — show source text
    1. Buildings whose exterior bearing walls, exterior nonbearing walls and exterior primary structural frame are not required to be fire-resistance rated shall be permitted to have unlimited unprotected openings.

    705.9.2 Protected openings. Where openings are required to be protected, opening protectives shall comply with Section 716.

    Exception: Opening protectives are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the exterior openings are protected by a water curtain using automatic sprinklers approved for that use.

    705.9.3 Unprotected openings. Where unprotected openings are permitted, windows and doors shall be constructed of any approved materials. Glazing shall conform to the requirements of Chapters 24 and 26.

    705.9.4 Mixed openings. Where both unprotected and protected openings are located in the exterior wall in any story of a building, the total area of openings shall be determined in accordance with the following: Equation 7-2 ( A p / a p ) + ( A u / a u ) ≤ 1 A p = Actual area of protected openings, or the equivalent area of protected openings, A e (see Section 705.8). a p = Allowable area of protected openings. A u = Actual area of unprotected openings.

    a u = Allowable area of unprotected openings.

    705.9.5 Vertical separation of openings. Openings in exterior walls in adjacent stories shall be separated vertically to protect against fire spread on the exterior of the buildings where the openings are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of each other horizontally and the opening in the lower story is not a protected opening with a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. Such openings shall be separated vertically not less than 3 feet (914 mm) by spandrel girders, exterior walls or other similar assemblies that have a fireresistance rating of not less than 1 hour, rated for exposure to fire from both sides, or by flame barriers that extend horizontally not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond the exterior wall. Flame barriers shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. The unexposed surface temperature limitations specified in ASTM E119 or UL 263 shall not apply to the flame barriers unless otherwise required by the provisions of this code.

    Exceptions:

    1. This section shall not apply to buildings that are three stories or less above grade plane.
    2. This section shall not apply to buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    7-10 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

    1. Open parking garages. 705.9.6 Vertical exposure. For buildings on the same lot, opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour shall be provided in every opening that is less than 15 feet (4572 mm) vertically above the roof of an adjacent building or structure based on assuming an imaginary line between them. The opening protectives are required where the fire separation distances from the imaginary line to each building or structure are less than 15 feet (4572 mm).
  • CFC § 403.4.7 High relevance — show source text

    Smoke exhaust 910 Smoke removal, high-rise buildings 403.4.7 Smokeproof enclosure 909.20.3, 909.20.5, 1023.12 Spray rooms and spaces 416.2.2, 416.3 Stages 410.2.5, 410.2.7 Under-floor ventilation 202.4 Vents, Penetration Protection 714 Vermiculite, Fire Resistant 721 Vertical Opening Protection Atriums 404.6

    Duct penetrations 717.1 Elevators 713.14, 3007.6.1, 3008.6.1 Exceptions 1019, 1023.2 Group I-3 408.5 High-rise 403.2.1.2, 403.2.2, 403.5.1 Live/work units 508.5.6 Open parking garages 406.5.9 Permitted vertical openings 712 Shaft enclosure 713, 1019, 1023.2 Vestibules, Exit Discharge 1028.2 Vinyl Expanded 803.7, 803.8 Rigid 1404.15 Violations 114 Voice Alarm (see Alarms, Voice) Walkway 402.4.3.1, 3104 During construction 3306 Encroachment, public right-of-way 3202.3.4

    Fire resistance Table 601

    Live load Table 1607.1 Materials per construction type Chapter 6 Opening protection 716, 717, 1026.2 Wall, Exterior 705, 1401 Bearing Chapter 6

    California Energy Code and International Energy Conservation Code Climate Zones 1404.3.3 Combustible wall covering 1405 Coverings 1404 Drawings 107.2.4 Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) 1407 Exterior structural members 704.9

    Fire district D102.2.6, D102.1 Fire-resistance ratings 703, 705.5, Table 705.5, 706.5.1, 707.4, 1402.4 Flashing, veneered walls 1404.11.1, 1404.4

    Foam plastic insulation 2603.4.1.4, 2603.5 Glazing, rated 715.8 Joints 705.10, 714 Light-transmitting plastic panels 2607 Materials 705.4, 1403.1, 1405 Metal composite material (MCM) 1406 Nonbearing Chapter 6 Opening protection 705.11, 705.9, 716.2.5.4

    Parapets 705.12 Performance requirements 1402 Projections 705.2 Structural stability 705.7 Vapor retarders 1404.3 Veneer (see Veneer) Weather resistance 1402.2, 1404.2, 1406.6, 1407.4 Weather-resistant barriers 1404.2 Wall, Fire (see Fire Walls) Wall, Foundation (see Foundations) Wall, Interior Finishes 803, 1210.2 Opening protection 716, 717 Wall, Interior Nonbearing (See Partitions) Wall, Masonry 202 Wood Contact 2304.12.1.3,

  • CFC § 909.20.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    Openings are not permitted other than the required means of egress doors. The vestibule shall be separated from the stairway or ramp by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both. The open exterior balcony shall be constructed in accordance with the fire-resistance-rating requirements for floor assemblies.

    [BF] 909.20.2.1 Door closers. Doors in a smokeproof enclosure shall be self-closing or automatic closing by actuation of a smoke detector in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6 of the California Building Code and shall be installed at the floorside entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. The actuation of the smoke detector on any door shall activate the closing devices on all doors in the smokeproof enclosure at all levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

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    [BF] 909.20.3 Natural ventilation alternative. The provisions of Sections 909.20.3.1 through 909.20.3.3 shall apply to ventilation of smokeproof enclosures by natural means.

    [BF] 909.20.3.1 Balcony doors. Where access to the stairway or ramp is by way of an open exterior balcony, the door assembly into the enclosure shall be a fire door assembly in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code .

    [BF] 909.20.3.2 Vestibule doors. Where access to the stairway or ramp is by way of a vestibule, the door assembly into the vestibule shall be a fire door assembly complying with Section 716 of the California Building Code . The door assembly from the vestibule to the stairway shall have not less than a 20-minute fire protection rating complying with Section 716 of the California Building Code .

    [BF] 909.20.3.3 Vestibule ventilation. Each vestibule shall have a minimum net area of 16 square feet (1.5 m [2] ) of opening in a wall facing an outer court, yard or public way that is not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in width.

    [BF] 909.20.4 Stairway and ramp pressurization alternative. Where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the vestibule is not required, provided that each interiorexit stairway or ramp is pressurized to not less than 0.10 inch of water (25 Pa) and not more than 0.35 inch of water (87 Pa) in the shaft relative to the building measured with all interior exit stairway and ramp doors closed under maximum anticipated conditions of stack effect and wind effect.

    [BF] 909.20.5 Ventilating equipment. The activation of ventilating equipment required by the alternative in Section 909.20.4 shall be by smoke detectors installed at each floor level at an approved location at the entrance to the smokeproof enclosure. When the closing device for the stairway and ramp shaft and vestibule doors is activated by smoke detection or power failure, the mechanical equipment shall activate and operate at the required performance levels. Smoke detectors shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.3.

  • CFC § 716.1.2.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    716.1.2.2.2 Fire-protection-rated glazing identification. For fire-protection-rated glazing, the label shall bear the following identification required in Tables 716.1(1) and 716.1(3): “OH – XXX.” “OH” indicates that the glazing meets both the fire protection and the hose-stream requirements of NFPA 257 or UL 9 and is permitted to be used in fire window openings. The placeholder “XXX” represents the fire-rating period, in minutes.

    716.1.2.2.3 Fire-resistance-rated glazing identification. For fire-resistance-rated glazing, the label shall bear the identification required in Section 703.4 and Table 716.1(1).

    716.1.2.2.4 Fire-rated glazing that exceeds the code requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked as complying with hose stream requirements (H) shall be permitted in applications that do not require compliance with hose stream requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked as complying with temperature rise requirements (T) shall be permitted in applications that do not require compliance with temperature rise requirements. Fire-rated glazing assemblies marked with ratings (XXX) that exceed the ratings required by this code shall be permitted.

    716.1.2.3 Fire-resistance-rated glazing. Fire-resistance-rated glazing tested as part of a fire-resistance-rated wall or floor/ceiling assembly in accordance with ASTM E119 or UL 263 and labeled in accordance with Section 703.4 shall not otherwise be required to comply with this section where used as part of a wall or floor/ceiling assembly.

    716.1.2.3.1 Glazing in fire door and fire window assemblies. Fire-resistance-rated glazing shall be permitted in fire door and fire window assemblies where tested and installed in accordance with their listings and where in compliance with the requirements of this section.

    716.2 Fire door assemblies. Fire door assemblies required by other sections of this code shall comply with the provisions of this section. Fire door frames with transom lights, sidelights or both shall be permitted in accordance with Section 716.2.5.4.

    716.2.1 Testing requirements. Approved fire door and fire shutter assemblies shall be constructed of any material or assembly of component materials that conforms to the test requirements of Sections 716.2.1.1 through 716.2.1.4 and the fire protection rating indicated in Table 716.1(2).

    Exceptions:

    1. Labeled protective assemblies that conform to the requirements of this section or UL 10A, UL 14B and UL 14C for tinclad fire door assemblies.

    2. Floor fire door assemblies in accordance with Section 712.1.13.1.

    716.2.1.1 Side-hinged or pivoted swinging doors. Fire door assemblies with side-hinged and pivoted swinging doors shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 252 or UL 10C. For tests conducted in accordance with NFPA 252, the fire test shall be conducted using the positive pressure method specified in the standard.

  • CFC § 909.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    where:

    A = Total leakage area, square feet (m [2] ). A F = Unit floor or roof area of barrier, square feet (m [2] ). A w = Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m [2] ).

    The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings due to gaps around doors and operable windows. The total leakage area of the smoke barrier shall be determined in accordance with Section 909.5.1 and tested in accordance with Section 909.5.2.

    909.5.1 Total leakage area. Total leakage area of the barrier is the product of the smoke barrier gross area multiplied by the allowable leakage area ratio, plus the area of other openings such as gaps around doors and operable windows.

    909.5.2 Testing of leakage area. Compliance with the maximum total leakage area shall be determined by achieving the minimum air pressure difference across the barrier with the system in the smoke control mode for mechanical smoke control systems utilizing the pressurization method. Compliance with the maximum total leakage area of passive smoke control systems shall be verified through methods such as door fan testing or other methods, as approved by the fire code official.

    909.5.3 Opening protection. Openings in smoke barriers shall be protected by automatic-closing devices actuated by the required controls for the mechanical smoke control system. Door openings shall be protected by fire door assemblies complying with Section 716 of the California Building Code .

    Exceptions:

    1. Passive smoke control systems with automatic-closing devices actuated by spot-type smoke detectors listed for releasing service installed in accordance with Section 907.3. When used in a Group I-2, such detectors shall activate the fire alarm system and shall close all the smoke barrier doors within the effected zone.
    2. Fixed openings between smoke zones that are protected utilizing the airflow method in other than Group I-2.
    3. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed across a corridor in accordance with Section 909.5.3.1, the doors shall not be required to be protected in accordance with Section 716 of

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    the California Building Code . The doors shall be close-fitting within operational tolerances and shall not have a center mullion. Positive-latching devices are required. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1. 4. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where such doors are special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding door assemblies installed in accordance with Section 1010.3.3 and are automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6 of the California Building Code they shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.

    1. Group I-3.
    2. Openings between smoke zones with clear ceiling heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greater and bank-down capacity of greater than 20 minutes as determined by the design fire size. 7. In Group I-2, smoke damper activation may be accomplished by a fire alarm control unit provided that an open area smoke detection system is provided within all areas served by an HVAC system.
  • CFC § 709.4.2 High relevance — show source text

    709.4.2 Smoke-barrier walls enclosing areas of refuge or elevator lobbies. Smoke-barrier walls used to enclose areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.4, or to enclose elevator lobbies in accordance with Section 405.4.3, 3007.6.2, or 3008.6.2, shall form an effective membrane enclosure that terminates at a fire barrier wall having a fire resistance rating not less than 1 hour, another smoke barrier wall or an outside wall. A smoke and draft control door assembly as specified in Section 716.2.2.1.1 shall not be required at each elevator hoistway door where protected by an elevator lobby, at each exit door opening into a protected lobby or at each exit doorway between an area of refuge and the exit enclosure.

    709.5 Openings. Openings in a smoke barrier shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

    Exceptions:

    1. In Group I- 2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where a pair of opposite-swinging doors are installed across a corridor in accordance with Section 709.5.1, the doors shall not be required to be protected in accordance with Section 716. The doors shall be close fitting within operational tolerances, and shall not have a center mullion or undercuts in excess of [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm), louvers or grilles. The doors shall have head and jamb stops, and astragals or rabbets at meeting edges. Positive latching devices are not required. Factory-applied or field-applied protective plates are not required to be labeled. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.
    2. In Group I- 2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors installed in accordance with Section 1010.3.3 and protected in accordance with Section 716. Doors installed across corridors shall comply with Section 1010.1.1.

    709.5.1 Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities. In Group I-2, R-2.1 and ambulatory care facilities, where doors protecting openings in smoke barriers are installed across a corridor and have hold-open devices, the doors shall be automatic-closing in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6. Such doors shall have a vision panel with fire-protection-rated glazing materials in fire-protection-rated frames, the area of which shall not exceed that tested. In Group I-2, where swinging doors are installed across a corridor, such doors shall be opposite swinging pairs.

    709.6 Penetrations. Penetrations of smoke barriers shall comply with Section 714.

    709.7 Joints. Joints made in or between smoke barriers shall comply with Section 715.

    709.8 Ducts and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a smoke barrier by ducts and air transfer openings shall comply with Section 717.

    SECTION 710—SMOKE PARTITIONS

    710.1 General. Smoke partitions installed as required elsewhere in the code shall comply with this section.

  • CFC § 703.2 High relevance — show source text

    703.2 Repair of penetrations. Where damaged, materials used to protect membrane- and through-penetrations shall be replaced or restored with materials or systems that meet or exceed the code requirements applicable at the time when the assembly was constructed, remodeled or altered.

    SECTION 704—JOINTS AND VOIDS

    704.1 Maintaining protection. Where required when the building was originally constructed, materials and systems used to protect joints and voids in the following locations shall be maintained. The materials and systems shall be securely attached to or bonded to the adjacent construction, without openings visible through the construction.

    1. Joints in or between fire-resistance-rated walls, floors or floor/ceiling assemblies and roof or roof/ceiling assemblies.

    2. Joints in smoke barriers.

    3. Voids at the intersection of a horizontal floor assembly and an exterior curtain wall.

    4. Voids at the intersection of a horizontal smoke barrier and an exterior curtain wall.

    5. Voids at the intersection of a nonfire-resistance-rated floor assembly and an exterior curtain wall.

    6. Voids at the intersection of a vertical fire barrier and an exterior curtain wall.

    7. Voids at the intersection of a vertical fire barrier and a nonfire-resistance-rated roof assembly.

    Unprotected joints and voids do not need to be protected where such joints and voids were not required to be protected when the building was originally constructed. Where the system design number is known, the system shall be inspected to the listing criteria and manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    704.2 Repair of joints and voids. Where damaged, materials used to protect joints and voids shall be replaced or restored with materials or systems that meet or exceed the code requirements applicable at the time when the assembly was constructed, remodeled or altered.

    704.3 Opening protectives. Where openings are required to be protected, opening protectives shall be maintained self-closing or automatic-closing by smoke detection. Existing fusible-link-type automatic door-closing devices are permitted if the fusible link rating does not exceed 135°F (57°C).

    SECTION 705—DOOR AND WINDOW OPENINGS

    705.1 General. Where required when the building was originally constructed, opening protectives installed in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with this section.

    705.2 Inspection and maintenance. Opening protectives in fire-resistance-rated assemblies shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with NFPA 80. Opening protectives in smoke barriers shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with NFPA 80 and NFPA 105. Openings in smoke partitions shall be inspected and maintained in accordance with NFPA 105. Fire doors and smoke and draft control doors shall not be blocked, obstructed, or otherwise made inoperable. Fusible links shall be replaced promptly whenever fused or damaged. Opening protectives and smoke and draft control doors shall not be modified.

    705.2.1 Labeling requirements. Where approved by the fire code official, the application of field-applied labels associated with the maintenance of opening protectives shall follow the requirements of the approved third-party certification organization accredited for listing the opening protective.

    705.2.2 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, a sign shall be permanently displayed on or near each fire door in letters not less than 1 inch (25 mm) high to read as follows:

    1. For doors designed to be kept normally open: “FIRE DOOR—DO NOT BLOCK.”
    2. For doors designed to be kept normally closed: “FIRE DOOR—KEEP CLOSED.”

Frequently asked questions

Can I use ordinary tempered or laminated safety glass as “fire‑rated glazing”?

No. Ordinary tempered/laminated safety glass is not the same as fire‑protection‑rated or fire‑resistance‑rated glazing. A glazing product must be listed and labeled for the required fire test standard (NFPA 257 or UL 9 for protection‑rated glazing, or ASTM E119/UL 263 if tested as part of a fire‑resistance assembly) to be used in openings required to be protected. See § 716.1.2 and § 716.2.9.5.

What’s the limit for vision panels in a fire door?

Fire‑protection‑rated glazing in doors is limited to 100 square inches unless the glazing is fire‑resistance tested/listed as part of the door assembly in accordance with the listing that allows larger sizes. See § 716.2.2.3.1.

If my building has sprinklers, can I ignore Section 716 requirements?

No — sprinklers may create exceptions for some opening protection requirements (see the sprinkler exception in § 705.9.2), but labeled assemblies, installation, labeling and maintenance requirements (NFPA 80 / NFPA 105) still apply where the code requires opening protectives. Always check the specific exception text and the specific application.

Are there different tests for door types?

Yes. Side‑hinged/pivoted swinging doors are tested per NFPA 252 or UL 10C; other door types follow the test method specified for that type in § 716.2.1. Always install doors listed to the correct test method and labeled accordingly.

Where do I find the labeling information that must appear on fire‑rated glazing?

Labeling requirements and the specific identification codes (for example “OH – XXX” for hose stream glazing) are set out in § 716.1.2.2 and related labeling subsections; see § 716.2.9.5 for glazing identification/labeling instructions.

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California Fire Code