CFC · California Fire Code
What are the inspection, testing and maintenance requirements for sprinkler systems?
Automatic sprinkler systems in California must be kept operable and tested/maintained per the Fire Code: **§ 903.5** requires compliance with **§ 901**, acceptance tests must be completed before occupancy (**§ 901.5.1**), and inspection/testing frequencies are set by Title 19/NFPA 25. Owners must correct deficiencies promptly, use licensed service personnel as required by Title 19, post impairment tags, and keep records (generally ≥3 years). filefile
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Automatic sprinkler systems must be inspected, tested and maintained consistent with the Fire Code administration and maintenance provisions—specifically § 903.5 and the administration/testing rules in § 901.5 and § 901.6. The California Fire Code defers inspection/testing frequencies and procedures to the State regulations and NFPA 25 (2011 / 2013 California Edition); owners must keep systems operable at all times and correct deficiencies immediately. See § 903.5 and § 901.5 / § 901.6 for the controlling requirements.
The single most important rule: Automatic sprinkler systems shall be kept in an operable condition and be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code administration provisions and the inspection frequencies required by Title 19 / NFPA 25.
Requirements in detail
Controlling code sections (first mention bolded)
- § 903.5 — Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Section § 901.
- § 901.5 — Acceptance testing: the fire code official must be notified before required acceptance testing; occupancy is prohibited until required fire protection systems have been tested and approved (see § 901.5.1).
- § 901.6 — Inspection, testing and maintenance: required systems must be kept in an operative condition at all times; deficiencies must be corrected and systems restored to normal operation. (A specific § 901.6.1 text did not appear in the provided files; see note below.)
Note: I could not find a distinct § 901.6.1 text in the provided documents. Where a request referenced § 901.6.1, the available material contains the broader § 901.6 requirements and the Title 19 / NFPA 25 frequencies. If you need a literal § 901.6.1 sentence, I can look again if you upload that specific page.
Who sets the inspection/testing frequencies?
- The California administrative regulations require that water‑based systems be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with NFPA 25 (published as the NFPA 25, 2013 California Edition) and Title 19; local authorities may require more frequent action. This is the mandatory frequency standard referenced by the Fire Code.
Who may perform the work?
- Title 19 requires that testing and maintenance be performed by persons licensed as required by state law (Health & Safety Code references); exceptions are limited and must be documented. The license / service requirements and invoicing practices (itemized invoice, return of parts offer) are prescribed by Title 19.
Records and documentation
- Records of inspections, tests, servicing and other operations must be maintained on the premises (or other approved location) for not less than 3 years (or a different period where specified) and made available to the fire code official. Operating/testing instructions and record drawings (“as‑builts”) must be provided to an approved location.
Impairments, tagging and coordination
- The building owner must appoint an impairment coordinator to manage out‑of‑service systems. A tag must be posted at each FDC, control valve, alarm control unit or annunciator indicating system removal from service; the fire code official may specify tag placement.
Short reference decision table
| Decision / dimension | What to check or do | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Which standard sets frequencies | Use NFPA 25 (2011 edition; published as 2013 CA Edition) and California Title 19 | § 901.6; Title 19 §904(a)(1) file |
| Who may perform testing | Licensed service personnel per Title 19 (exceptions limited) | Title 19 §904.2(a) / §904.2(e) |
| Occupancy before acceptance | Not permitted until fire protection systems are tested & approved | § 901.5.1 |
| Record retention | Maintain inspection/test records on site ≥ 3 years (unless otherwise specified) | A110.3 / § 110.3 (recordkeeping) |
| Impairment control / tagging | Assign impairment coordinator; use tags at valves, FDCs, alarm controls | § 901.7.1–3 |
| Monitoring / alarms | Exterior waterflow alarm activated by flow equivalent to a single sprinkler; supervision/monitoring requirements apply | § 903.4.3 / § 903.4.2 |
| Special systems frequencies | Alternative extinguishing systems follow Title 19 or manufacturer’s instructions; some systems require semiannual/annual checks | Title 19 §904; 904.11.3, 904.13.1 examples file |
Exceptions & special cases
- One‑ and two‑family dwellings are excepted from some sprinkler supervision/monitoring requirements (e.g., § 903.4 exceptions). However, if a sprinkler system is required by occupancy rules, the owner still must maintain it.
- Alternative fixed extinguishing systems installed instead of sprinklers are inspected/tested per Title 19 and the system listing/manufacturer instructions; some pre‑engineered systems require semi‑annual inspections and inspection immediately after activation. (See Title 19 §904.)
- Where the installation date cannot be documented, Title 19 requires initial testing/maintenance by July 1, 1985 (historical provision).
Common mistakes
- Relying on a local “best practice” interval instead of the required standard: the Code explicitly defers frequencies to NFPA 25 / Title 19; do not invent schedules.
- Failing to correct deficiencies promptly or to tag a system taken out of service—owners must repair and may not re‑tag a system until all deficiencies are corrected. Title 19 requires immediate correction and invoices when parts are replaced.
- Allowing occupancy before required acceptance tests are completed and approved by the fire code official—this is unlawful per § 901.5.1.
- Not keeping inspection/test records on site or failing to provide them on request—the Fire Code authorizes the fire code official to require form and retention (≥ 3 years generally).
Worked example — applying the rule with numbers (concrete scenario)
Scenario: Owner of a 4‑story office building has an automatic wet‑pipe sprinkler system and completed installation. Steps and code‑based actions:
- Acceptance testing before occupancy: Notify the fire code official prior to acceptance tests and obtain approval—do not occupy any portion until the system is tested and approved (§ 901.5.1).
- Testing & maintenance schedule: Follow NFPA 25 frequencies as required by Title 19 (the California rule requires you to inspect/test/maintain “in accordance with NFPA 25 (2011/2013 CA Edition)”). If NFPA 25 calls for monthly control valve inspections and annual main drain tests, those are the required intervals—confirm the exact NFPA 25 items with your contractor. Do not substitute arbitrary intervals.
- Contractor qualifications & documentation: Use a licensed service provider per Title 19. At the time of any test or parts replacement provide the owner an itemized invoice and offer to return replaced parts, per Title 19 §904.2(e)–(f).
- Impairment procedures: If the riser must be shut for a repair, the owner’s impairment coordinator must manage the outage and post the required tag at the riser and FDC until restored (§ 901.7).
- Recordkeeping: Keep test/inspection reports, invoices and corrective action records on site for at least 3 years and make them available to the fire code official on request.
Numbers used here are drawn from the Code/Title 19 citations (e.g., 3 years, NFPA 25 reference, July 1, 1985 historical date). Specific periodic intervals (monthly, quarterly, annual) for each test item come from NFPA 25 and must be followed exactly; the Fire Code delegates those frequencies to NFPA 25.
Common related provisions (quick list)
- § 903.4 — Sprinkler system supervision and alarms (electronic supervision, monitoring, waterflow alarms).
- § 901.5 — Administration/acceptance testing; § 901.5.1 occupancy prohibition until tested & approved.
- § 901.6 — Inspection, testing and maintenance (general operability obligation).
- Title 19 (CCR) § 904(a)(1) — Requires NFPA 25 (2011 / 2013 CA Edition) as the frequency standard for water‑based systems.
- Title 19 § 904.2(a)–(f) — Licensing, immediate corrective action, invoicing and parts return requirements for testing/maintenance contractors.
- § 901.7.1–3 — Impairment coordinator and tagging requirements for out‑of‑service systems.
- A110.3 / § 110.3 — Recordkeeping: maintain records of periodic inspections/tests on premises not less than 3 years.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 904.10.3 High relevance — show source text
904.10.3 System hoses. System hoses shall be examined at 12-month intervals for damage. Damaged hoses shall be replaced or tested. All hoses shall be tested at 5-year intervals.
904.11 Automatic water mist systems. Automatic water mist systems shall be permitted in applications that are consistent with the applicable listing or approvals and shall comply with Sections 904.11.1 through 904.11.3.
904.11.1 Design and installation requirements. Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 904.11.1.1 through 904.11.1.4.
904.11.1.1 General. Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with California Code of Regu- lations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 and NFPA 750 and the manufacturer’s instructions.
904.11.1.2 Actuation. Automatic water mist systems shall be automatically actuated.
904.11.1.3 Water supply protection. Connections to a potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .
904.11.1.4 Secondary water supply. Where a secondary water supply is required for an automatic sprinkler system, an automatic water mist system shall be provided with an approved secondary water supply.
904.11.2 Water mist system supervision and alarms. Supervision and alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.1.
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904.11.2.1 Monitoring. Monitoring shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.2.
904.11.2.2 Alarms. Alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.3.
904.11.2.3 Floor control valves. Floor control valves shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.9.
904.11.3 Testing and maintenance. Automatic water mist systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.
904.12 Hybrid fire-extinguishing systems. Hybrid fire-extinguishing systems shall be designed, installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 770. Records of inspection and testing shall be maintained.
904.13 Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems. Aerosol fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 2010 and their listing.
Such devices and appurtenances shall be listed and installed in compliance with manufacturer’s instructions.
904.13.1 Maintenance. Not less than semiannually, an inspection shall be conducted by a trained person to assess whether the system is in working order. Not less than annually, a certified fire suppression contractor having knowledge of and training in the installation, operation and maintenance of the specific fire-extinguishing system shall inspect, test, service and maintain such system in accordance with this section and the manufacturer’s specifications and servicing manuals. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
CFC § 904.2 High relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(a) All automatic fire extinguishing systems, including systems installed as an alternate to other building requirements, shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the following frequencies. Local authorities may require more frequent inspec- tion, testing and maintenance and additional procedures.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)(1)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(1) Water-based fire protection systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the frequencies required by NFPA 25 (2011 edition) including Annexes A, B, C, D and G as amended by the State of California. (Published as NFPA 25, 2013 Califor- nia Edition.)
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(b)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(b) When proof of the installation date of standpipe systems or automatic fire sprinkler systems cannot be furnished, such systems shall receive initial testing and maintenance by July 1, 1985.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(a)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(a) All testing and maintenance on automatic fire extinguishing systems in accordance with Health & Safety Code Section 13195 shall be performed by those licensed in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 13196.5.
Exceptions:
(1) The State Fire Marshal may waive, in writing, licensing of fire departments which conduct fire sprinkler and standpipe system testing and maintenance.
(2) Service on fire alarm systems and industrial systems as specified in Health and Safety Code Sections 13196.5(b) and (c) may be conducted without a license.
(3) Testing and maintenance on automatic fire extinguishing systems exempted in writing by the State Fire Marshal, when the building owner or occupant has the staff and equipment to conduct testing and maintenance.
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[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(b)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(b) Any testing and maintenance of automatic fire extinguishing systems shall be performed in accordance with these requirements.
Exceptions:
(1) The State Fire Marshal may waive, in writing, the requirement that testing and maintenance be performed in accordance with these requirements when a licensee can demonstrate that a system cannot functionally be tested and maintained in accor- dance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.
(2) If at any time a licensee encounters a specialized or modified system which cannot be tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5, the licensee shall contact the State Fire Marshal and test and maintain the system as directed.
(A) The intent of this section is to cover automatic fire extinguishing systems as originally designed, installed and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. It is not, however, intended to require that such systems be upgraded to current adopted standards.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(h)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
CFC § 904.2 High relevance — show source text
(c) The owner or occupant shall promptly correct or repair deficiencies, damaged parts or impairments found while performing the inspection, test and maintenance requirements of this standard. Recalled products shall be replaced or remedied. Such replacement or remedial product shall be installed in accordance with the listing requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions and the appropri- ate NFPA installation standards. A recalled product is a product subject to a statute or administrative regulation specifically requiring the manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer of a product, or any combination of such entities, to recall the product, or a product voluntarily recalled by a combination of such entities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(d)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(d) The building or system owner shall ensure immediate correction of any deficiencies noted during the service. A tag or label shall be affixed to a system only after all deficiencies have been corrected. The owner or occupant shall promptly correct or repair deficien- cies, damaged parts or impairments found while performing the inspection, test and maintenance requirements of this standard. Recalled products shall be replaced or remedied. Such replacement or remedial product shall be installed in accordance with the list- ing requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions and the appropriate NFPA installation standards. A recalled product is a product subject to a statute or administrative regulation specifically requiring the manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer of a product, or any combination of such entities, to recall the product, or a product voluntarily recalled by a combination of such entities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(e)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(e) At the time of testing and maintenance, or at any time parts are replaced, an itemized invoice showing work performed and parts replaced shall be provided by the licensee to the system owner. If testing and maintenance is performed more than thirty (30) days prior to the next required testing and maintenance date, the invoice shall bear a statement indicating the system was tested and maintained early.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(f)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(f) The licensee shall offer to return all replaced parts to the system owner or owner’s representative, except those parts that are required to be returned to the manufacturer under conditions of warranty.
901.7.1 Impairment coordinator. The building owner shall assign an impairment coordinator to comply with the requirements of this section. In the absence of a specific designee, the owner shall be considered to be the impairment coordinator.
901.7.2 Tag required. A tag shall be used to indicate that a system, or portion thereof, has been removed from service.
901.7.3 Placement of tag. The tag shall be posted at each fire department connection, system control valve, fire alarm control unit, fire alarm annunciator and fire command center, indicating which system, or part thereof, has been removed from service. The fire code official shall specify where the tag is to be placed.
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CFC § 901.5.1 High relevance — show source text
901.5.1 Occupancy. It shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the required fire protection and life safety systems have been tested and approved.
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire protection and life safety systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Nonrequired fire protection and life safety systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed in accordance with Section 901.8.
All fire alarm systems, fire detection systems, automatic sprinkler or extinguishing systems, communication systems, and all other equipment, material or systems required by these regulations shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with this code and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1. Upon disruption or diminishment of the fire protective qualities of such equipment, material or systems, immediate action shall be instituted to affect a reestablishment of such equipment, material or systems to their original normal and operational condition.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1.14] Maintenance.
Every fire alarm system or device, sprinkler system, fire extinguisher, fire hose, fire-resistive assembly or any other fire safety assembly, device, material or equipment installed and retained in service in any building or structure subject to California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1 regulations and with their intended use.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.24] Maintenance of Equipment.
All fire alarm systems, fire detection systems, automatic sprinkler or extinguishing systems, communication systems, and all other equip- ment, material or systems required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times. Upon disruption or diminishment of the fire protective qualities of such equipment, material or systems, immediate action shall be instituted to affect a reestablishment of such equipment material or systems to their original normal and operational condition.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(a) All automatic fire extinguishing systems, including systems installed as an alternate to other building requirements, shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the following frequencies. Local authorities may require more frequent inspec- tion, testing and maintenance and additional procedures.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)(1)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(1) Water-based fire protection systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the frequencies required by NFPA 25 (2011 edition) including Annexes A, B, C, D and G as amended by the State of California. (Published as NFPA 25, 2013 Califor- nia Edition.)
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(b)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(b) When proof of the installation date of standpipe systems or automatic fire sprinkler systems cannot be furnished, such systems shall receive initial testing and maintenance by July 1, 1985.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(a)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
CFC § 29.4.1 High relevance — show source text
(1) All literature and instructions provided by the manufacturer describing proper operation and maintenance of any equipment and devices installed.
(2) NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, testing, and maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2013 California Edition. (3) Title 19, California Code of Regulations, Chapter 5, “Fire Extinguishing Systems.”
Revise Section 29.4.1 as follows:
29.4.1 The installing contractor shall identify a hydraulically designed sprinkler system with a permanently marked weatherproof metal or rigid plastic sign secured with corrosion resistant wire, chain or other approved means. Such signs shall be placed at the alarm valve, dry pipe valve, preaction valve or deluge valve supplying the corresponding hydraulically designed area. Pipe schedule systems shall be provided with a sign indicating that the system was designed and installed as a pipe schedule system and the hazard classification(s) included in the design.
Revise Section 29.4.3 as follows:
29.4.3 The sign shall include the following information:
(1) Location of the design area or areas (2) Discharge densities over the design area or areas (3) Required flow and pressure of the system at the base of the riser. (4) Occupancy classification or commodity classification and maximum permitted storage height and configuration (5) Hose stream allowance included in addition to the sprinkler demand (6) The name of the installing contractor (7) Required flow and pressure of the system at the water supply source. (8) Required flow and pressure of the system at the discharge side of the fire pump where a fire pump is installed. (9) Type or types and number of sprinklers or nozzles installed including the orifice size, temperature rating, orientation, K-Factor, sprinkler identification number (SIN) for sprinkler heads when applicable, and response type. (10) The minimum discharge flow rate and pressure required from the hydraulically most demanding sprinkler. (11) The required pressure settings for pressure reducing valves. (12) For deluge sprinkler systems, the required flow and pressure at the hydraulically most demanding sprinkler or nozzle. (13) The protection area per sprinkler based on the hydraulic calculations. (14) The edition of NFPA 13 to which the system was designed and installed.
Revise Section 29.6.1 as follows:
29.6.1 The installing contractor shall provide a general information sign used to determine system design basis and information relevant to the inspection, testing and maintenance requirements required by NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2013 California Edition.
13D— 25 : Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, as amended*
903.3.1.3
*NFPA 13D, Amended Sections as follows:
Revise Section 6.2.2 to read as follows:
6.2.2 Where a well, pump, tank or combination thereof is the source of supply for a fire sprinkler system, the configuration for the system shall be one of the following:
(1) The water supply shall serve both domestic and fire sprinkler systems. (a) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection shall return water to the tank.
CFC § 9-7 High relevance — show source text
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pump and automatic sprinkler system riser rooms shall be provided with doors and unobstructed passageways large enough to allow removal of the largest piece of equipment.
901.4.7.1 Access. Automatic sprinkler system risers, fire pumps and controllers shall be provided with ready access. Where located in a fire pump room or automatic sprinkler system riser room, the door shall be permitted to be locked provided that the key is available at all times.
901.4.7.2 Marking on access doors. Access doors for automatic sprinkler system riser rooms and fire pump rooms shall be labeled with an approved sign. The lettering shall be in contrasting color to the background. Letters shall have a minimum height of 2 inches (51 mm) with a minimum stroke of [3] / 8 inch (10 mm).
901.4.7.3 Environment. Automatic sprinkler system riser rooms and fire pump rooms shall be maintained at a temperature of not less than 40°F (4°C). Heating units shall be permanently installed.
901.4.7.4 Lighting. Permanently installed artificial illumination shall be provided in the automatic sprinkler system riser rooms and fire pump rooms.
901.5 Administration of installation acceptance testing. Fire protection and life safety systems and appurtenances thereto shall be subject to acceptance tests as contained in the installation standards and as approved by the fire code official. The fire code official shall be notified before any required acceptance testing.
901.5.1 Occupancy. It shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the required fire protection and life safety systems have been tested and approved.
901.6 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire protection and life safety systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times, and shall be replaced or repaired where defective. Nonrequired fire protection and life safety systems and equipment shall be inspected, tested and maintained or removed in accordance with Section 901.8.
All fire alarm systems, fire detection systems, automatic sprinkler or extinguishing systems, communication systems, and all other equipment, material or systems required by these regulations shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with this code and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1. Upon disruption or diminishment of the fire protective qualities of such equipment, material or systems, immediate action shall be instituted to affect a reestablishment of such equipment, material or systems to their original normal and operational condition.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1.14] Maintenance.
Every fire alarm system or device, sprinkler system, fire extinguisher, fire hose, fire-resistive assembly or any other fire safety assembly, device, material or equipment installed and retained in service in any building or structure subject to California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be maintained in an operable condition at all times in accordance with California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1 regulations and with their intended use.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.24] Maintenance of Equipment.
CFC § 3.1. High relevance — show source text
Defects in the system or leaks detected shall be documented and repaired. 2. A cylinder-filling performance test shall be conducted to verify compliance with the required breathing air cylinder refill rate from the exterior mobile air connection and, where provided, a stored air pressure supply system. 3. The air quality monitoring system shall be tested to verify both of the following conditions: 3.1. Visual indicators required by Section L104.15.1 function properly. 3.2. Supervisory signals are transmitted as required by Section L104.15.2 for each sensor based on a sensor function test. 4. Connections intended for fire department use shall be confirmed as compatible with the fire department’s mobile air unit, SCBA cylinders and, where provided, RIC/UAC connections. 5. Air samples shall be taken from not less than two fill stations and submitted to an approved gas analysis laboratory to verify compliance with NFPA 1989. The FARS shall not be placed into service until a written report verifying compliance with NFPA 1989 has been provided to the fire code official.
SECTION L106—INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
L106.1 Periodic inspection, testing and maintenance. A FARS shall be continuously maintained in an operative condition and shall be inspected not less than annually. Not less than quarterly, an air sample shall be taken from the system and tested to verify compliance with NFPA 1989. The laboratory test results shall be maintained on site and readily available for review by the fire code official.
SECTION L107—REFERENCED STANDARDS
L107.1 General. See Table L107.1 for standards that are referenced in various sections of this appendix. Standards are listed by the standard identification with the effective date, standard title, and the section or sections of this appendix that reference the standard.
TABLE L107.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3 STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTIONS HEREIN REFERENCED ASME B31.3—2022 Process Piping L104.2.1, L105.1 CGA S-1.3—2020 Pressure Relief Device Standards—Part 3
Stationary Storage Containers for Compressed GasesL104.7 NFPA 1901—16 Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus L104.5.1 NFPA 1989—13 Breathing Air Quality for Fire Emergency Services Respiratory Protection L104.2.2, L105.1, L106.1 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX L-5
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APPENDIX L-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX M – HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS—RETROACTIVE AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER REQUIREMENT
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
(Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)
CFC § 903.4.2 High relevance — show source text
- Underground key or hub gate valves in roadway boxes.
903.4.2 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station or, where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
903.4.3 Alarms. An approved audible and visual sprinkler waterflow alarm device, located on the exterior of the building in an approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a waterflow switch is required by Section 903.4.1 to be electrically supervised, such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be powered by a fire alarm control unit or, where provided, a fire alarm system. Where a fire alarm system is provided, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
903.5 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Section 901.
903.6 Where required in existing buildings and structures. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11.
SECTION 904—ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
904.1 General. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(a)(2)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(2) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained at least semi-annually, and immediately after a system activation.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(c)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(c) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems, regardless of installation date, shall be inspected, tested and main- tained within the time periods specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2) above.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.7(a) through (c)] Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Requirements for Engineered and Pre-engineered Fixed Extinguishing Systems.
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance shall be performed in accordance with:
(a) California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2),
(b) the manufacturer’s written instructions, which are approved and on file with the Office of the State Fire Marshal; and
(c) the applicable standards adopted in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, (California Fire Code).
904.1.1 Certification of service personnel for fire-extinguishing equipment. Service personnel providing or conducting maintenance on automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall possess a valid certificate issued by an approved governmental agency, or other approved organization for the type of system and work performed.
904.2 Where permitted. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official.
CFC § 913.3 High relevance — show source text
Exception: This section shall not apply to cables, or portions of cables, located within a fire pump room or generator room that is separated from the remainder of the occupancy with fire-resistance-rated construction.
913.3 Temperature of pump room. Suitable means shall be provided for maintaining the temperature of a pump room or pump house, where required, above 40°F (5°C).
913.3.1 Engine manufacturer’s recommendation. Temperature of the pump room, pump house or area where engines are installed shall never be less than the minimum recommended by the engine manufacturer. The engine manufacturer’s recommendations for oil heaters shall be followed.
913.4 Valve supervision. Where provided, the fire pump suction, discharge and bypass valves, and isolation valves on the backflow prevention device or assembly shall be supervised open by one of the following methods:
- Central-station, proprietary or remote-station signaling service.
- Local signaling service that will cause the sounding of an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
- Locking valves open.
- Sealing of valves and approved weekly recorded inspection where valves are located within fenced enclosures under the control of the owner.
913.4.1 Test outlet valve supervision. Fire pump test outlet valves shall be supervised in the closed position.
913.5 Testing and maintenance. Fire pumps shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the requirements of this section and California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 . Records of inspection, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.
913.5.1 Acceptance test. Acceptance testing shall be done in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 20.
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913.5.2 Generator sets. Engine generator sets supplying emergency or standby power to fire pump assemblies shall be periodically tested in accordance with NFPA 110. Records of testing shall be maintained.
913.5.3 Transfer switches. Automatic transfer switches shall be periodically tested in accordance with NFPA 110. Records of testing shall be maintained.
913.5.4 Pump room environmental conditions. Tests of pump room environmental conditions, including heating, ventilation and illumination, shall be made to ensure proper manual or automatic operation of the associated equipment.
913.6 Fire pumps in high-rise buildings. Engine-driven fire pumps and electric drive fire pumps supplied by generators shall both be provided with an on-premises fuel supply, sufficient for not less than 8-hour full-demand operation at 100 percent of the rated pump capacity in addition to all other required supply demands in accordance with NFPA 20 and this section.
SECTION 914—FIRE PROTECTION BASED ON SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS OF USE AND OCCUPANCY
914.1 General. This section shall specify where fire protection systems are required based on the detailed requirements of use and occupancy of the California Building Code .
914.2 Covered and open mall buildings. Covered and open mall buildings shall comply with Sections 914.2.1 through 914.2.4.
914.2.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Covered and open mall buildings and buildings connected shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, which shall comply with the all of the following: 1.
CFC § 29.6.1 High relevance — show source text
29.6.1 The installing contractor shall provide a general information sign used to determine system design basis and information relevant to the inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements required by NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2013 California Edition.
13D— 25 : Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes as amended*
903.3.1.3
*NFPA 13D, Amended Sections as follows:
Revise Section 6.2.2 to read as follows:
6.2.2 Where a well, pump, tank or combination thereof is the source of supply for a fire sprinkler system, the configuration for the system shall be one of the following:
(1) The water supply shall serve both domestic and fire sprinkler systems.
(a) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection shall return water to the tank.
(b) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be approved.
(c) A method for refilling the tank shall be piped to the tank.
(d) A method of seeing the water level in the tank shall be provided without having to open the tank.
(e) The pump shall not be permitted to sit directly on the floor.
(2) A stand-alone tank is permitted if the following conditions are met:
(a) The pump shall be connected to a 220-volt circuit breaker shared with a common household appliance (e.g., range, oven, dryer),
(b) The pump shall be a stainless steel 240-volt pump,
(c) A valve shall be provided to exercise the pump. The discharge of the exercise valve shall drain to the tank, and
(d) A sign shall be provided stating: “Valve must be opened monthly for 5 minutes.”
(e) A means for automatically refilling the tank level, so that the tank capacity will meet the required water supply duration in minutes, shall be provided.
(f) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection shall return water to the tank.
(g) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be approved.
(h) A method for refilling the tank shall be piped to the tank.
(i) A method of seeing the water level in the tank shall be provided without having to open the tank.
(j) The pump shall not be permitted to sit directly on the floor.
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Add new Section 6.2.2.1 as follows:
6.2.2.1 Where a fire sprinkler system is supplied by a stored water source with an automatically operated means of pressurizing the system other than an electric pump, the water supply may serve the sprinkler system only.
Add new Section 6.2.4 as follows:
CFC § 903.3.1.2 High relevance — show source text
903.3.1.2, 903.3.5.2, 903.4.1
*NFPA 13R, Amended Sections as follows:
Revise Section 2.2 and add publications as follows:
2.2 NFPA Publications.
NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, 2013 California edition.
Add new Sections 6.6.10 and 6.10.1 as follows:
6.6.10 Solar photovoltaic panel structures
6.6.10.1 Sprinklers shall be permitted to be omitted from the following structures:
(1) Solar photovoltaic panel structures with no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath including storage.
(2) Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and unobstructed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as determined by the enforcing agency.
Revise Section 11.4 as follows:
11.4 Instructions.
The installing contractor shall provide the property owner or the property owner's authorized representative with the following:
(1) All literature and instructions provided by the manufacturer describing proper operation and maintenance of any equipment and devices installed.
(2) NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems 2013 California Edition and Title 19, California Code of Regulations, Chapter 5.
(3) Once the system is accepted by the authority having jurisdiction a label as prescribed by Title 19, California Code of Regulations, Chapter 5, shall be affixed to each system riser.
14— 24 : Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems, as amended*
905.2, 905.3.4, 905.4.2, 905.6.2, 905.8
*NFPA 14, Amended Sections as follows:
Replace Section 6.3.7.1
6.3.7.1 System water supply valves, isolation control valves, and other valves in fire mains shall be supervised in an approved manner in the open position by one of the following methods:
(1) Where a building has a fire alarm system or a sprinkler monitoring system installed, the valve shall be supervised by:
(a) a central station, proprietary or remote supervising station, or
(b) a local signaling service that initiates an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
(2) Where a building does not have a fire alarm system or a sprinkler monitoring system installed, the valve shall be supervised by:
(a) Locking the valves in the open position, or
(b) Sealing of valves and an approved weekly recorded inspection where valves are located within fenced enclosures under the control of the owner.
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15—22: Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection
1207.5.5, 5704.2.9.2.3
CFC § 903.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 903.4 Sprinkler system supervision and alarms. Automatic sprinkler system supervision and alarms shall comply with Sections 903.4.1 through 903.4.3.
[F] 903.4.1 Electronic supervision. Valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and waterflow switches on all automatic sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit.
Exceptions:
- Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
- Limited area sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.8, provided that backflow prevention device test valves located in limited area sprinkler system supply piping shall be locked in the open position unless supplying an occupancy required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, in which case the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically supervised by a tamper switch installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated.
- Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
- Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
- Underground key or hub gate valves in roadway boxes.
[F] 903.4.2 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station or, where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
[F] 903.4.3 Alarms. An approved audible and visual sprinkler waterflow alarm device, located on the exterior of the building in an approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a waterflow switch is required by Section 903.4.1 to be electrically supervised, such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be powered by a fire alarm control unit or, where provided, a fire alarm system. Where a fire alarm system is provided, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.
Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
[F] 903.5 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code .
SECTION 904—ALTERNATIVE AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
[F] 904.1 General. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall be designed, installed, inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this section and the applicable referenced standards.
[F] 904.2 Where permitted. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official.
CFC § 507.3 High relevance — show source text
507.3 Fire flow. Fire-flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an approved method or Appendix B.
507.4 Water supply test. The fire code official shall be notified prior to the water supply test. Water supply tests shall be witnessed by the fire code official or approved documentation of the test shall be provided to the fire code official prior to final approval of the water supply system.
507.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall comply with Sections 507.5.1 through 507.5.6 and Appendix C or by an approved method.
507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than 400 feet (122 m) from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official.
Exception: For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, the distance requirement shall be not more than 600 feet (183 m).
507.5.1.1 Hydrant for standpipe systems. Buildings equipped with a standpipe system installed in accordance with Section 905 shall have a fire hydrant within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the fire department connections.
Exception: The distance shall be permitted to exceed 100 feet (30 480 mm) where approved by the fire code official.
507.5.2 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire hydrant systems shall be subject to periodic tests as required by the fire code official. Fire hydrant systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be repaired where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing shall comply with approved standards. Records of tests and required maintenance shall be maintained.
507.5.3 Private fire service mains and water tanks. Private fire service mains and water tanks shall be periodically inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.
- Private fire hydrants of all types: Inspection annually and after each operation; flow test and maintenance annually.
- Fire service main piping: Inspection of exposed, annually; flow test every 5 years.
- Fire service main piping strainers: Inspection and maintenance after each use.
Records of inspections, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.
507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.
507.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved.
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507.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts or other approved means shall comply with Section 312.
SECTION 508—FIRE COMMAND CENTER
CFC § 904.8 High relevance — show source text
[F] 904.8 Carbon dioxide systems. Carbon dioxide extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5, NFPA 12 and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
[F] 904.9 Halon systems. Halogenated extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5, NFPA 12A and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
[F] 904.10 Clean-agent systems. Clean-agent fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 and NFPA 2001 and their listing. Records of inspections and testing shall be maintained.
[F] 904.11 Automatic water mist systems. Automatic water mist systems shall be permitted in applications that are consistent with the applicable listing or approvals and shall comply with Sections 904.11.1 through 904.11.3.
[F] 904.11.1 Design and installation requirements. Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 904.11.1.1 through 904.11.1.4.
[F] 904.11.1.1 General. Automatic water mist systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 750 and the manufacturer’s instructions.
[F] 904.11.1.2 Actuation. Automatic water mist systems shall be automatically actuated.
[F] 904.11.1.3 Water supply protection. Connections to a potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .
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[F] 904.11.1.4 Secondary water supply. Where a secondary water supply is required for an automatic sprinkler system, an automatic water mist system shall be provided with an approved secondary water supply.
[F] 904.11.2 Water mist system supervision and alarms. Supervision and alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.1.
[F] 904.11.2.1 Monitoring. Monitoring shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.2.
[F] 904.11.2.2 Alarms. Alarms shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.4.3.
[F] 904.11.2.3 Floor control valves. Floor control valves shall be provided as required for automatic sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.9.
[F] 904.11.3 Testing and maintenance. Automatic water mist systems shall be tested and maintained in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5 and California Fire Code .
[F] 904.12 Hybrid fire extinguishing systems. Hybrid fire extinguishing systems shall be designed, installed, maintained, periodically inspected and tested in accordance with NFPA 770. Records of inspection and testing shall be maintained.
CFC § 904.7 High relevance — show source text
(2) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained at least semi-annually, and immediately after a system activation.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904(c)] Required Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Frequencies.
(c) Engineered and pre-engineered fixed extinguishing systems, regardless of installation date, shall be inspected, tested and main- tained within the time periods specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2) above.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.7(a) through (c)] Inspection, Testing and Maintenance Requirements for Engineered and Pre-engineered Fixed Extinguishing Systems.
Inspection, Testing and Maintenance shall be performed in accordance with:
(a) California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 904(a)(2),
(b) the manufacturer’s written instructions, which are approved and on file with the Office of the State Fire Marshal; and
(c) the applicable standards adopted in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, (California Fire Code).
904.1.1 Certification of service personnel for fire-extinguishing equipment. Service personnel providing or conducting maintenance on automatic fire-extinguishing systems, other than automatic sprinkler systems, shall possess a valid certificate issued by an approved governmental agency, or other approved organization for the type of system and work performed.
904.2 Where permitted. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed as an alternative to the required automatic sprinkler systems of Section 903 shall be approved by the fire code official.
904.2.1 Restriction on using automatic sprinkler system exceptions or reductions. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall not be considered alternatives for the purposes of exceptions or reductions allowed for automatic sprinkler systems or by other requirements of this code.
904.2.2 Commercial hood and duct systems. Each required commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct system required by Section 606 to have a Type I hood shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system installed in accordance with this code.
904.3 Installation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be installed in accordance with this section.
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904.3.1 Electrical wiring. Electrical wiring shall be in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
904.3.2 Actuation. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be automatically actuated and provided with a manual means of actuation in accordance with Section 904.14.1. Where more than one hazard could be simultaneously involved in fire due to their proximity, all hazards shall be protected by a single system designed to protect all hazards that could become involved.
Exception: Multiple systems shall be permitted to be installed if they are designed to operate simultaneously.
904.3.3 System interlocking. Automatic equipment interlocks with fuel shutoffs, ventilation controls, door closers, window shutters, conveyor openings, smoke and heat vents and other features necessary for proper operation of the fire-extinguishing system shall be provided as required by the design and installation standard utilized for the hazard.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for sprinkler inspections and tests?
The building or system owner is responsible to ensure required inspections, tests and maintenance are performed; Title 19 requires qualified/licensed service personnel to perform the work unless a specific exception applies. file
What standard gives the exact intervals (monthly, annual, etc.)?
The California regulations require following NFPA 25 (2011 edition published as the 2013 California Edition) for water‑based system inspection, testing and maintenance intervals; the Fire Code refers you to that standard.
Can I occupy a building before sprinklers are tested?
No — § 901.5.1 makes it unlawful to occupy any portion of a building until required fire protection systems (including sprinklers) have been tested and approved by the fire code official.
How long must I keep inspection/test records?
Keep records on the premises (or other approved location) for not less than 3 years, unless another period is specified. Records must be available to the fire code official.
What must I do if my sprinkler riser is taken out of service for repair?
Assign an impairment coordinator to manage the outage, post the required tag at the FDC/control valve/alarm unit, notify the fire department if required, and restore service as soon as possible.
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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