CFC · California Fire Code
When is a fire alarm or detection system required?
Short homeowner summary: The California Fire Code requires building fire alarm systems or specific smoke detection depending on what the building is used for, how many units/people it has, and whether it has interior corridors — small single‑family homes mostly use residential smoke alarms, while hotels, larger apartment buildings, dorms and other occupancies trigger building‑level alarm and corridor detection requirements; see §§ 907.2, 907.2.8.2, 907.2.9 and 907.2.11 and check with your local fire official for exceptions.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
The California Fire Code requires an approved fire alarm system in new buildings when specific occupancy, height, area, or use triggers are met — see § 907.2 for the general rule. Specific occupancies and situations (hotels, residential groups, storage, institutional, special hazards, etc.) have their own thresholds for manual fire alarm systems, automatic smoke detection, or single-/multiple‑station smoke alarms (see § 907.2.8.2, § 907.2.9, § 907.2.11). These occupancy‑based triggers are the primary decision points; exceptions (for example where sprinklers provide equivalent notification) are stated in the same sections.
The single most important rule: if the occupancy/size/height trigger listed in Chapter 9 applies, you must provide the type of alarm or detector required in that specific § (for example § 907.2.9 for many multiunit residential buildings).
Requirements in detail
Use the table below to decide what type of alarm/detection you need. Each row shows the decision axis (occupancy, size, height, or space) and the required system per the CFC.
| Decision dimension | Trigger / value (bold = code threshold) | Required system | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| General requirement for new buildings | Any new building that meets a specific occupancy/threshold in Chapter 9 | Approved fire alarm system per NFPA 72; occupant notification per § 907.5 | § 907.2 |
| Group R‑1 (hotels/motels) corridors | Buildings with interior corridors serving sleeping units | Automatic smoke detection system throughout those corridors (activates occupant notification) | § 907.2.8.2 |
| Group R‑1 (manual alarm) | R‑1 occupancies generally | Manual fire alarm system (subject to listed exceptions) | § 907.2.8.1 |
| Group R‑2 / R‑2.1 (apartments, dorms) — manual alarm triggers | Any dwelling/sleeping unit 3 or more stories above lowest exit discharge; or more than one story below highest exit discharge; or building contains more than 16 dwelling units | Manual fire alarm system (unless exceptions apply) | § 907.2.9.1 |
| Group R‑2 / R‑2.1 — smoke alarms | All R‑2 / R‑2.1 occupancies regardless of occupant load | Single- and multiple‑station smoke alarms per the residential rules | § 907.2.9.2 and § 907.2.11 |
| Group R‑2 college/university housing | College‑operated student/staff housing | Automatic smoke detection in common spaces, laundry, mechanical/storage, and all interior corridors; unit detectors that are UL‑listed must be interconnected to the fire alarm system | § 907.2.9.3 |
| Single‑ and multiple‑station smoke alarms (residential) | Locations inside dwelling/sleeping units | Smoke alarms per § 907.2.11 — required locations, interconnection, power source, and exceptions spelled out there | § 907.2.11 |
| Exception common to many sections | Where building is fully protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system and notification appliances activate on sprinkler waterflow | Manual pull stations or some alarm features may be omitted when the sprinkler system will activate occupant notification as specified | See exceptions in § 907.2 and occupancy subsections (e.g., § 907.2.8.1, § 907.2.9.1) |
How the residential smoke‑alarm rules work (high level)
- § 907.2.11 sets the residential single- and multiple‑station smoke alarm requirements: required locations (outside sleeping areas, in each sleeping room, each story including basements), interconnection rules (all alarms in a unit must activate together), primary power requirements, and special provisions for certain licensed or institutional residential occupancies.
Manual vs automatic vs local smoke alarms — when to pick which
- Manual fire alarm system (pull stations) is required when the occupancy/size/height thresholds in sections like § 907.2.1, § 907.2.7, or § 907.2.9.1 are met (for example large assembly, large Group M, multi‑story R‑2).
- Automatic smoke detection (connected to the building alarm) is required in interior corridors serving sleeping units (hotels, dorms) per § 907.2.8.2, and in other occupancies where the code lists it explicitly (e.g., certain institutional, high risk, or college housing situations).
- Single‑/multiple‑station smoke alarms (battery or line‑powered) are the minimum for dwelling units and are governed by § 907.2.11 (locations, interconnection, power).
Exceptions & special cases
- Sprinkler equivalency: Many sections allow omission of manual fire alarm boxes or some system features where a building is fully protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system and notification appliances activate on sprinkler waterflow — check the specific occupancy subsection for the exact exception language (e.g., R‑1 and R‑2 rules).
- No interior corridor: § 907.2.8.2 exempts buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units when each sleeping unit has an egress door directly to an exterior exit or exit access.
- Small or low‑rise residential buildings: Some low‑rise buildings with separated units and direct exterior egress can be excepted from full alarm system requirements — see § 907.2.9 exceptions for R‑2 occupancies.
- Institutional/detention: Group I (health care/detention) and R‑2.1 licensed facilities have additional or alternate requirements (staff‑alerting, annunciation, or exceptions where continuous staffing and sprinklers exist). Those are documented in their subsections (see related provisions).
Common mistakes
- Treating smoke alarms and fire alarm systems as interchangeable — they are different: § 907.2.11 governs residential smoke alarms (single‑/multiple‑station), while § 907.2 and occupancy subsections govern full building fire alarm systems tied to NFPA 72. Don’t assume unit smoke alarms satisfy a building‑level trigger.
- Ignoring sprinkler exceptions — owners sometimes remove required manual pull stations without confirming the sprinkler‑notification activation requirements in the same subsection. Always verify the exact exception criteria in the applicable §.
- Improper interconnection/power: For new construction, required smoke alarms must be hard‑wired to building power with battery backup and interconnected so one alarm actuates all in the unit (exceptions for listed wireless systems exist). See § 907.2.11.5–6.
- Missing corridor detection in hotels/dorms: For interior corridors serving sleeping units the code explicitly requires automatic smoke detection (not just unit alarms) per § 907.2.8.2.
Worked example — applying the rule
Scenario: A new apartment building with 20 dwelling units, four stories above the lowest level of exit discharge, with interior corridors serving all units. No sprinkler system is installed.
Step 1 — Which occupancy section controls? This is Group R‑2 — check § 907.2.9.
Step 2 — Do any manual‑alarm triggers apply? Yes — the building has more than 16 dwelling units and contains units located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge, so a manual fire alarm system is required per § 907.2.9.1 (both triggers are met).
Step 3 — Smoke alarms in units: Single‑ or multiple‑station smoke alarms must be installed in each sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on each story per § 907.2.11; they must be interconnected and receive primary power from the building wiring with battery backup for new construction.
Step 4 — Corridor detection: Because interior corridors serve sleeping units, the authority having jurisdiction may also require automatic smoke detection in corridors (Group R‑1 explicitly requires corridor detection; in many R‑2 college/dorm situations § 907.2.9.3 requires corridor detection). Confirm with the fire code official whether corridor detection is also required for this R‑2 apartment building (the plain R‑2 text requires manual alarm in this scenario and unit smoke alarms per § 907.2.11).
Result: Install a building‑level manual fire alarm system (pull stations, FACP, occupant notification per § 907.5), and install single‑/multiple‑station smoke alarms in units per § 907.2.11. Confirm whether additional automatic corridor detection is required by the local enforcing agency.
Related provisions (useful cross‑references)
- § 907.2 — Where required — new buildings and structures (general rule)
- § 907.2.8.2 — Automatic smoke detection in interior corridors serving sleeping units (Group R‑1)
- § 907.2.9 — Fire alarm and smoke alarm requirements for Groups R‑2, R‑2.1 and R‑2.2 (apartments, dorms)
- § 907.2.11 — Single‑ and multiple‑station smoke alarm (locations, interconnection, power)
- § 907.3 — Fire safety functions for detectors (connection to fire alarm control unit, duct smoke detectors)
- § 907.5 — Occupant notification (how alarms must notify occupants)
- § 903.3.1.1 / 903.3.1.2 — Automatic sprinkler requirements and the common sprinkler‑equivalency exceptions (see occupancy subsections)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 9-43 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-43
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
907.2.7 Group M. Fire alarm systems shall be required in Group M occupancies in accordance with Sections 907.2.7.1 and 907.2.7.2.
907.2.7.1 Occupant load. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group M occupancies where one of the following conditions exists:
- The combined Group M occupant load of all floors is 500 or more persons.
- The Group M occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in covered or open mall buildings complying with Section 402 of the California Building Code .
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.7.1.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a waterflow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
907.2.7.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed in a room or space within a Group M occupancy where required for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320.
907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. 2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
CFC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
3. In waiting areas and corridors onto which they open, in the same smoke compartment, in accordance with Section 407.2.1 of the California Building Code. 4. In areas where patients are restrained, smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces of smoke compartments and in adjacent smoke compartments where occupants of those compartments utilize the same means of egress.
907.2.6.3 Group I-3 occupancies. Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required within temporary holding cells.
907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, automatic sprinkler system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal that automatically notifies staff.
907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.4.2 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.
907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarms boxes in detainee areas. Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
907.2.6.3.3 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally open to inmates .
Exceptions:
- Other approved smoke detection arrangements may be used to prevent damage or tampering or for other purposes provided the function of detecting any fire is fulfilled and the location of the detectors is such that the speed of detection will be equivalent to that provided by the spacing and location required in accordance with NFPA 72 as referenced in Chapter 80. This may include the location of detectors in return air ducts from cells, behind grilles or in other locations. Spot type, combination duct and open area smoke detectors may be used when located not more than 14 inches (356 mm) from the return air grill. For initiation and annunciation purposes, these detectors may be combined in groups of four. The fire code official having jurisdiction, however, must approve the proposed equivalent performance of the design. 2. For detention housing and/or mental health housing area(s), including correctional medical and mental health uses, automatic smoke detection system in sleeping units shall not be required when all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. All rooms, including the inmate cells, are provided with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2.2. Building is continuously staffed by a correctional officer at all times. 3. Smoke detectors are not required to be installed in inmate cells with two or fewer occupants in detention facilities which do not have a correctional medical and mental health use.
4. Smoke detectors are not required to be installed in inmate day rooms of detention facilities where 24-hour direct visual supervision is provided by a correctional officer(s) and a manual fire alarm box is located in the control room.
CFC § 907.2.24.2 High relevance — show source text
907.2.24.2 Production locations — solid-ceiling sets and platforms. Where required by Chapter 48 of the California Fire Code in buildings with existing fire protection systems and where production intends to construct solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer's installation instructions. The fire alarm system shall be connected to an approved supervising station in accor- dance with Section 907.6.6 or a local alarm which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
907.2.24.3 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units are permitted to be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4 Heat detectors.
907.2.24.4.1 Heat detection required by this section shall be defined as a portable system as it is intended to be reinstalled when platforms or sets are changed.
907.2.24.4.2 Heat detectors shall be secured to standard outlet boxes and are allowed to be temporarily supported by sets, plat- forms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4.3 Heat detectors shall be provided for solid-ceiling sets and platforms where required by Sections 4805.3 and 4811.14.
907.2.25 Group C occupancies (organized camps).
907.2.25.1 General. Every building and structure used or intended for sleeping purposes shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings and structures in existence and in operation prior to January 1, 1985. 2. Tents, tent structures and buildings and structures that do not exceed 25 ft (7620 mm) in any lateral dimensions and where such building or structure is not more than one story.
907.2.25.2 Camp fire alarm. Every organized camp shall provide and maintain audible appliances, or devices suitable for sound- ing a fire alarm. Such audible appliances or devices may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises. When an auto- matic fire alarm system is provided, as required by Section 450.6.6 of the California Building Code, all audible appliances required by this section shall be of the same type as that used in the automatic system.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-35
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
907.2.26 Fixed-guideway and passenger rail transit systems fire alarm and communication systems.
CFC § 4-314 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions: 1. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a construction project that has an estimated total cost of less than $200,000.
2. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. See California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 3. A fire alarm system is not required for detached buildings designed and used for noninstructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occupancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:
Concession stand.
Press box.
Restroom facilities.
Shade structure.
Snack bar. Storage building. Ticket booth.
907.3 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by
9-50 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code . In facilities that are required to be monitored by a supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall report only as a supervisory signal and not as a fire alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exceptions:
- The supervisory signal at a constantly attended location is not required where duct smoke detectors activate the building’s alarm notification appliances.
- In occupancies not required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and an audible signal in an approved location. Smoke detector trouble conditions shall activate a visible or audible signal in an approved location and shall be identified as air duct detector trouble.
907.3.2 Special locking systems. Where special locking systems are installed on means of egress doors in accordance with Section 1010.2.13 or 1010.2.12, an automatic smoke detection system shall be installed as required by those sections and Sections 907.3.2.1 through 907.3.2.5.
CFC § 2.1. High relevance — show source text
Exception: In patient and client rooms equipped with existing automatic door closers having integral smoke detec- tor, the integral detector is allowed to substitute for the room smoke detector, provided it meets all the required alerting functions. 2. Group I-2 nurse stations. A minimum of one (1) smoke detector shall be installed at the nurse station and centrally located.
3. In waiting areas and corridors onto which they open, in the same smoke compartment, in accordance with Section 407.2.1.
- In areas where patients are restrained, smoke detectors shall be installed at ceilings throughout all occupied areas and mechanical/electrical spaces of smoke compartments and in adjacent smoke compartments where occupants of those compartments utilize the same means of egress.
[F] 907.2.6.3 Group I-3 occupancies. Group I-3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire alarm system and automatic smoke detection system installed for alerting staff.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required within temporary holding cells.
9-28 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
[F] 907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, automatic sprinkler system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal that automatically notifies staff.
[F] 907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in accordance with Section 907.4.2 where the fire alarm boxes are provided at staff-attended locations having direct supervision over areas where manual fire alarm boxes have been omitted.
[F] 907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarm boxes in detainee areas. Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
[F] 907.2.6.3.3 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally open to residents.
Exceptions:
- Other approved smoke detection arrangements may be used to prevent damage or tampering or for other purposes provided the function of detecting any fire is fulfilled and the location of the detectors is such that the speed of detection will be equivalent to that provided by the spacing and location required in accordance with NFPA 72 as referenced in Chapter 35. This may include the location of detectors in return air ducts from cells, behind grilles or in other locations. Spot type, combination duct and open area smoke detectors may be used when located not more than 14 inches (356 mm) from the return air grill. For initiation and annunciation purposes, these detectors may be combined in groups of four. The fire code official having jurisdiction, however, must approve the proposed equivalent performance of the design. 2. For detention housing and/or mental health housing area(s), including correctional medical and mental health uses, automatic smoke detection system in sleeping units shall not be required when all of the following conditions are met:
CFC § 415.11.8.2.1 High relevance — show source text
- Except as noted in this section, monitoring for highly toxic and toxic gases shall also comply with Chapter 60 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 415.11.8.2.1 Alarms. The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station when a short-term hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both visual and audible and shall provide warning both inside and outside the area where the gas is detected. The audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.
[F] 415.11.8.2.2 Shutoff of gas supply. The gas detection system shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for which gas is detected when a short-term hazard condition is detected. Automatic closure of shutoff valves shall comply with the following:
- Where the gas detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
- Where the gas detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a room and compressed gas containers are not in gas cabinets or an exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valves on all gas lines for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 4-49
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE
- Where the gas detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a piping distribution manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve supplying the manifold for the compressed gas container of the specific gas detected shall automatically close. Exception: Where the gas detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is at the use location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch line downstream of a piping distribution manifold, the shutoff valve for the branch line located in the piping distribution manifold enclosure shall automatically close.
[F] 415.11.9 Manual fire alarm system. An approved manual fire alarm system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group H-5. Activation of the alarm system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station. The fire alarm system shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 907.
[F] 415.11.10 Emergency control station. An emergency control station shall be provided in accordance with Sections 415.11.10.1 through 415.11.10.3.
[F] 415.11.10.1 Location. The emergency control station shall be located on the premises at an approved location outside the fabrication area.
[F] 415.11.10.2 Staffing. Trained personnel shall continuously staff the emergency control station.
[F] 415.11.10.3 Signals. The emergency control station shall receive signals from emergency equipment and alarm and detection systems. Such emergency equipment and alarm and detection systems shall include, but not be limited to, the following where such equipment or systems are required to be provided either in this chapter or elsewhere in this code:
Automatic sprinkler system alarm and monitoring systems.
Manual fire alarm systems.
Emergency alarm systems.
Gas detection systems.
Smoke detection systems.
Emergency power system.
Automatic detection and alarm systems for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids required in Section 2705.2.3.4 of the California Fire Code .
CFC § 907.1.4 High relevance — show source text
[F] 907.1.4 Fire-walls and fire barrier walls. For the purpose of Section 907 fire walls and fire barrier walls shall not define separate buildings.
[F] 907.1.5 Fire alarm use. A fire alarm system shall not be used for any purpose other than fire warning or mass notification and where permitted by NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2 Where required—new buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.29 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.
Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency.
Exceptions:
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm control units dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is open to the public. 3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official.
[F] 907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 1,000, shall be provided with a fire alarm system as required for the Group E occupancy.
Exceptions:
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-25
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
- Manual fire alarm boxes and the associated occupant notification system or emergency voice/alarm communication system are not required for Group A-5 outdoor bleacher-type seating having an occupant load of greater than or equal to 300 and less than 15,000 occupants, provided that all of the following are met: 2.1. A public address system with standby power is provided. 2.2.
CFC § 906.10 High relevance — show source text
[F] 906.10 Wheeled units. Wheeled fire extinguishers shall be conspicuously located in a designated location.
SECTION 907—FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION SYSTEMS
[F] 907.1 General. This section covers the application, installation, performance and maintenance of fire alarm systems and their components.
[F] 907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code, the Califor- nia Fire Code ; and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the fire code official.
[F] 907.1.2 Fire alarm shop drawings. Shop drawings for fire alarm systems shall be prepared in accordance with NFPA 72 and submitted for review and approval prior to system installation.
[F] 907.1.3 Equipment. Systems and components shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and approved in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 for the purpose for which they are installed.
[F] 907.1.4 Fire-walls and fire barrier walls. For the purpose of Section 907 fire walls and fire barrier walls shall not define separate buildings.
[F] 907.1.5 Fire alarm use. A fire alarm system shall not be used for any purpose other than fire warning or mass notification and where permitted by NFPA 72.
[F] 907.2 Where required—new buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.29 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.
Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency.
Exceptions:
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm control units dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is open to the public. 3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official.
CFC § 415.11.9 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 415.11.9 Manual fire alarm system. An approved manual fire alarm system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group H-5. Activation of the alarm system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station. The fire alarm system shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 907.
[F] 415.11.10 Emergency control station. An emergency control station shall be provided in accordance with Sections 415.11.10.1 through 415.11.10.3.
[F] 415.11.10.1 Location. The emergency control station shall be located on the premises at an approved location outside the fabrication area.
[F] 415.11.10.2 Staffing. Trained personnel shall continuously staff the emergency control station.
[F] 415.11.10.3 Signals. The emergency control station shall receive signals from emergency equipment and alarm and detection systems. Such emergency equipment and alarm and detection systems shall include, but not be limited to, the following where such equipment or systems are required to be provided either in this chapter or elsewhere in this code:
Automatic sprinkler system alarm and monitoring systems.
Manual fire alarm systems.
Emergency alarm systems.
Gas detection systems.
Smoke detection systems.
Emergency power system.
Automatic detection and alarm systems for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids required in Section 2705.2.3.4 of the California Fire Code .
Exhaust ventilation flow alarm devices for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids cabinet exhaust ventilation systems required in Section 2705.2.3.4 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 415.11.11 Emergency power system. An emergency power system shall be provided in Group H-5 occupancies in accordance with Section 2702. The emergency power system shall supply power automatically to the electrical systems specified in Section 415.11.11.1 when the normal electrical supply system is interrupted.
[F] 415.11.11.1 Required electrical systems. Emergency power shall be provided for electrically operated equipment and connected control circuits for the following systems:
HPM exhaust ventilation systems.
HPM gas cabinet ventilation systems.
HPM exhausted enclosure ventilation systems.
HPM gas room ventilation systems.
HPM gas detection systems.
Emergency alarm systems.
Manual and automatic fire alarm systems.
Automatic sprinkler system monitoring and alarm systems.
Automatic alarm and detection systems for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids required in Section 2705.2.3.4 of the California Fire Code .
Flow alarm switches for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids cabinet exhaust ventilation systems required in Section 2705.2.3.4 of the California Fire Code .
Electrically operated systems required elsewhere in this code or in the California Fire Code applicable to the use, storage or handling of HPM.
[F] 415.11.11.2 Exhaust ventilation systems. Exhaust ventilation systems are allowed to be designed to operate at not less than one-half the normal fan speed on the emergency power system where it is demonstrated that the level of exhaust will maintain a safe atmosphere.
CFC § 907.2.6.3.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarm boxes in detainee areas. Manual fire alarm boxes are allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, provided that staff members are present within the subject area and have keys readily available to operate the manual fire alarm boxes.
[F] 907.2.6.3.3 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system shall be installed throughout resident housing areas, including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms, group activity spaces and other common spaces normally open to residents.
Exceptions:
- Other approved smoke detection arrangements may be used to prevent damage or tampering or for other purposes provided the function of detecting any fire is fulfilled and the location of the detectors is such that the speed of detection will be equivalent to that provided by the spacing and location required in accordance with NFPA 72 as referenced in Chapter 35. This may include the location of detectors in return air ducts from cells, behind grilles or in other locations. Spot type, combination duct and open area smoke detectors may be used when located not more than 14 inches (356 mm) from the return air grill. For initiation and annunciation purposes, these detectors may be combined in groups of four. The fire code official having jurisdiction, however, must approve the proposed equivalent performance of the design. 2. For detention housing and/or mental health housing area(s), including correctional medical and mental health uses, automatic smoke detection system in sleeping units shall not be required when all of the following conditions are met:
2.1. All rooms, including the inmate cells are provided with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2.2. Building is continuously staffed by a correctional officer at all times. 3. Smoke detectors are not required to be installed in inmate cells with two or fewer occupants in detention facilities which do not have a correctional medical and mental health use.
4. Smoke detectors are not required to be installed in inmate day rooms of detention facilities where 24-hour direct visual supervision is provided by a correctional officer(s) and a manual fire alarm box is located in the control room.
907.2.6.3.4 System annunciation. A staff alerting fire alarm shall sound at all staff control stations on the floor of activation and an audible and visual signal shall be indicated on an annunciator at the facility control center upon activation of any auto- matic extinguishing system, automatic detection system, or any smoke detector or manual actuating or initiating device. In addition, where there are staff-control stations on the floor, an audible, visual and manual alarm shall be located in each staff control station.
Fire and trouble signals of fire alarm systems and sprinkler water-flow and supervisory signals of extinguishing systems shall be annunciated in an area designated as the facility control center which shall be constantly attended by staff personnel. All such signals shall produce both an audible signal and visual display at the facility control center indicating the building, floor zone or other designated area from which the signal originated in accordance with Section 907.6.4.
All local detention facilities within the scope of Section 6031.4 of the Penal Code shall have an automatic smoke detection system. A manual fire alarm-initiating device shall be installed in all guard control stations and shall be capable of alerting personnel in a central control point to the presence of fire or smoke within the facility.
CFC § 809.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
11B- 809.2.2 Turning space. All rooms served by an accessible route shall provide a turning space complying with Section 11B- 304 .
Exception: Turning space shall not be required in exterior spaces 30 inches ( 762 mm) maximum in depth or width.
11B- 809.3 Kitchen. Where a kitchen is provided, it shall comply with Section 11B- 804 .
11B- 809.4 Toilet facilities and bathing facilities. At least one bathroom shall comply with Section 11B- 603. No fewer than one of each type of fixture provided within the bathroom shall comply with applicable requirements of Sections 11B- 603 through 11B- 610 . Toilet and bathing fixtures required to comply with Sections 11B- 603 through 11B- 610 shall be located in the same bathroom or toilet and bathing area, such that travel between fixtures does not require travel between other parts of the residential dwelling unit.
11B-809.4.1 Subsequent bathrooms. In residential dwelling units with more than one bathroom, when a bathtub is installed in the first bathroom in compliance with Section 11B-809.4 and a shower compartment is provided in a subsequent bathroom, at least one shower compartment shall comply with Section 11B-608.
11B- 809.5 Residential dwelling units with communication features. Residential dwelling units required to provide communication features shall comply with Section 11B- 809.5.
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11B- 809.5.1 Building fire alarm system. Where a building fire alarm system is provided, the system wiring shall be extended to a point within the residential dwelling unit in the vicinity of the residential dwelling unit smoke detection system.
11B- 809.5.1.1 Alarm appliances. Where alarm appliances are provided within a residential dwelling unit as part of the building fire alarm system, they shall comply with Chapter 9, Section 907.5.2.3.3.
11B- 809.5.1.2 Activation. All visible alarm appliances provided within the residential dwelling unit for building fire alarm notification shall be activated upon activation of the building fire alarm in the portion of the building containing the residential dwelling unit.
11B- 809.5.2 Residential dwelling unit smoke detection system and carbon monoxide detection system. Residential dwelling unit smoke detection systems shall comply with Chapter 9, Section 907.2.11. Residential dwelling unit carbon monoxide detection systems shall comply with Chapter 4.
11B- 809.5.2.1 Activation. All visible alarm appliances provided within the residential dwelling unit for smoke detection notification shall be activated upon smoke detection. All visible alarm appliances provided within the residential dwelling unit for carbon monoxide detection notification shall be activated upon carbon monoxide detection.
11B- 809.5.3 Interconnection. The same visible alarm appliances shall be permitted to provide notification of residential dwelling unit smoke detection, building fire alarm activation and carbon monoxide detection.
CFC § 907.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
907.1.1 Construction documents. Construction documents for fire alarm systems shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code; the Califor- nia Building Code ; and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as determined by the fire code official.
907.1.2 Fire alarm shop drawings. Shop drawings for fire alarm systems shall be prepared in accordance with NFPA 72 and submitted for review and approval prior to system installation. All plans and shop drawings shall use the symbols identified in NFPA 170, Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols.
Exception: Other symbols are allowed where approved by the enforcing agency.
907.1.3 Equipment. Systems and components shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and approved in accordance with Cali- fornia Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 for the purpose for which they are installed.
907.1.4 Fire-walls and fire barrier walls. For the purpose of Section 907, fire walls and fire barrier walls shall not define separate buildings.
907.1.5 Fire alarm use. A fire alarm system shall not be used for any purpose other than fire warning or mass notification and where permitted by NFPA 72.
907.2 Where required—new buildings and structures. An approved fire alarm system installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures in accordance with Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.29 and provide occupant notification in accordance with Section 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by another section of this code.
Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be provided in an approved location to initiate a fire alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection devices. Where other sections of this code allow elimination of
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fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers or automatic fire alarm systems, a single fire alarm box shall be installed at a location approved by the enforcing agency. Exceptions:
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator recall control and supervisory service and fire sprinkler monitoring.
- The manual fire alarm box is not required for Group R-2 occupancies unless required by the fire code official to provide a means for fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm during a sprinkler system impairment event. Where provided, the manual fire alarm box shall not be located in an area that is open to the public. 3. The manual fire alarm box is not required to be installed when approved by the fire code official. 907.2.1 Group A. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group A occupancies where the occupant load due to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more, or where the Group A occupant load is more than 100 persons above or below the lowest level of exit discharge. Group A occupancies not separated from one another in accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the California Building Code shall be considered as a single occupancy for the purposes of applying this section.
CFC § 907.2.8.2 High relevance — show source text
907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.9 Groups R-2, R-2.1 and R-2.2 . Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 and R-2.1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 through 907.2.10.2.1.1. Group R-2.2 shall be equipped throughout with an automatic fire alarm system and shall have a manual fire alarm pull station at the 24-hour staff watch office.
907.2.9.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where any of the following conditions apply:
- Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge.
- Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit.
- The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units. 4. Congregate residences with more than 16 occupants.
Exceptions:
- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon a sprinkler water flow.
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- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1027.6, Exception 3.
907.2.9.2 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
CFC § 907.2.8.1 High relevance — show source text
[F] 907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R- 1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. 2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
[F] 907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
[F] 907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
[F] 907.2.9 Group R-2, R-2.1 and R-2.2 . Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 and R-2.1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 through 907.2.9.3 and 907.2.9.4.1. Group R-2.2 shall be equipped throughout with an automatic fire alarm system and shall have a manual fire alarm pull station at the 24-hour staff watch office.
[F] 907.2.9.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies where any of the following conditions apply:
- Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located three or more stories above the lowest level of exit discharge.
- Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located more than one story below the highest level of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling unit or sleeping unit.
- The building contains more than 16 dwelling units or sleeping units. 4. Congregate residences with more than 16 occupants.
Exceptions:
- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon a sprinkler water flow.
CFC § 901.1 High relevance — show source text
9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 9 prescribes the minimum requirements for active fire protection equipment systems to perform the functions of detecting a fire, alerting the occupants or fire department of a fire emergency, mass notification, gas detection, controlling smoke and controlling or extinguishing the fire. Generally, the requirements are based on the occupancy, the height and the area of the building, because these are the factors that most affect firefighting capabilities and the relative hazard of a specific building or portion thereof. This chapter parallels and is substantially duplicated in Chapter 9 of the California Fire Code.
SECTION 901—GENERAL
901.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall specify where fire protection and life safety systems are required and shall apply to the design, installation and operation of fire protection and life safety systems.
901.2 Fire protection systems. Fire protection and life safety systems shall be installed, repaired, operated and maintained in accordance with this code and the California Fire Code .
Any fire protection or life safety system for which an exception or reduction to the provisions of this code has been granted shall be considered to be a required system.
Exception: Any fire protection or life safety system or portion thereof not required by this code shall be permitted to be installed for partial or complete protection provided that such system meets the requirements of this code.
901.3 Modifications. Persons shall not remove or modify any fire protection system installed or maintained under the provisions of this code or the California Fire Code without approval by the building official.
901.4 Threads. Threads provided for fire department connections to automatic sprinkler systems, standpipes, yard hydrants or any other fire hose connection shall be compatible with the connections used by the local fire department.
901.5 Administration of installation acceptance tests. Fire protection systems shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of this code and the California Fire Code . Where required, the tests shall be conducted in the presence of the building official. Tests required by this code, the California Fire Code and the standards listed in this code shall be conducted at the expense of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent. It shall be unlawful to occupy portions of a structure until the required fire protection systems within that portion of the structure have been tested and approved.
901.6 Supervisory service. Where required, fire protection systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with NFPA 72.
901.6.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be monitored by an approved supervising station.
Exceptions:
- A supervising station is not required for automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.
- Limited area systems in accordance with Section 903.3.8.
901.6.2 Fire alarm systems. Fire alarm systems required by the provisions of Section 907.2 of this code and Sections 907.2 and 907.9 of the California Fire Code shall be monitored by an approved supervising station in accordance with Section 907.6.6 of this code.
Exceptions:
- Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11.
- Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.
- Supervisory service is not required for automatic sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings.
901.6.3 Group H. Supervision and monitoring of emergency alarm, detection and automatic fire-extinguishing systems in Group H occupancies shall be in accordance with the California Fire Code .
CFC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all dwelling units or sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon a sprinkler water flow.
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- A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1027.6, Exception 3.
907.2.9.2 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.9.3 Group R-2 college and university buildings. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing in all of the following locations:
- Common spaces outside of dwelling units and sleeping units.
- Laundry rooms, mechanical equipment rooms and storage rooms.
- All interior corridors serving sleeping units or dwelling units.
Required smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 in dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing shall be interconnected with the fire alarm system to activate the occupant notification in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall comply with Section 907.2.11.8.
907.2.10 Group S. A fire alarm system shall be installed in a Group S occupancy as required by Sections 907.2.10.1 and 907.2.10.2.
907.2.10.1 Public- and self-storage occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public- and self-storage occupancies three stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances are not required within storage units.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.10.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area where required for the storage of lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320.
CFC § 9-29 Medium relevance — show source text
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- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification appliances will automatically activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.7.1.1 Occupant notification. During times that the building is occupied, the initiation of a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a waterflow switch shall not be required to activate the alarm notification appliances when an alarm signal is activated at a constantly attended location from which evacuation instructions shall be initiated over an emergency voice/alarm communication system installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
[F] 907.2.7.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed in a room or space within a Group M occupancy where required for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 907.2.8 Group R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
[F] 907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R- 1 occupancies.
Exceptions:
- A manual fire alarm system is not required in buildings not more than two stories in height where all individual sleeping units and contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those units are separated from each other and public or common areas by not less than 1-hour fire partitions and each individual sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public way, egress court or yard.
- Manual fire alarm boxes are not required throughout the building where all of the following conditions are met: 2.1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
2.2. The notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler water flow. 2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box is installed at an approved location.
[F] 907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection system. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping units.
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving sleeping units and where each sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit.
[F] 907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
CFC § 903.3.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1027.6, Exception 3.
[F] 907.2.9.2 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
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[F] 907.2.9.3 Group R-2 college and university buildings. An automatic smoke detection system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing in all of the following locations:
- Common spaces outside of dwelling units and sleeping units.
- Laundry rooms, mechanical equipment rooms and storage rooms.
- All interior corridors serving sleeping units or dwelling units.
Required smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268, in dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing shall be interconnected with the fire alarm system to activate the occupant notification in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall comply with Section 907.2.11.7. 907.2.9.4 Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies. Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies housing more than six nonambulatory, elderly clients shall be provided with an approved manual and automatic fire alarm system. Exceptions: Buildings housing nonambulatory clients on the first story only and which are protected throughout by the following: 1. An approved and supervised automatic sprinkler system, as specified in Sections 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, which upon acti- vation will initiate the fire alarm system to notify all occupants. 2. A manual fire alarm system. 3. Smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11. 907.2.9.4.1 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
[A] 907.2.10 Group S. A fire alarm system shall be installed in a Group S occupancy as required by Sections 907.2.10.1 and 907.2.10.2.
[F] 907.2.10.1 Public- and self-storage occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public-and self-storage occupancies three stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances are not required within storage units. Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
CFC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
**_ Licensed Group R-2.1 occupancies housing more than six nonambulatory, elderly clients shall be provided with an approved manual and automatic fire alarm system. Exceptions: Buildings housing nonambulatory clients on the first story only and which are protected throughout by the following: 1. An approved and supervised automatic sprinkler system, as specified in Sections 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, which upon acti- vation will initiate the fire alarm system to notify all occupants. 2. A manual fire alarm system. 3. Smoke alarms required by Section 907.2.11. 907.2.9.4.1 Smoke alarms. Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
[A] 907.2.10 Group S. A fire alarm system shall be installed in a Group S occupancy as required by Sections 907.2.10.1 and 907.2.10.2.
[F] 907.2.10.1 Public- and self-storage occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public-and self-storage occupancies three stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances are not required within storage units. Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
[F] 907.2.10.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area where required for the storage of lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.7, NFPA 72 and the manufacturer’s instructions. Exception: For Group R occupancies. A fire alarm system with smoke detectors located in accordance with this section may be installed in lieu of smoke alarms. Upon actuation of the detector, only those notification appliances in the dwelling unit or guest room where the detector is actuated shall activate.
[F] 907.2.11.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:
- In sleeping areas.
- In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.
- In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level. See Section 907.2.11.8 for specific location requirements.
CFC § 914.3.4 Medium relevance — show source text
914.3.4 Automatic smoke detection. Smoke detection shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1.
914.3.5 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
914.3.6 Emergency responder communication coverage. In-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage shall be provided in accordance with Section 510.
914.3.7 Fire command. A fire command center complying with Section 508 shall be provided in a location approved by the fire department.
914.3.8 Smoke control.
914.3.8.1 Smoke control system. All portions of high-rise buildings shall be provided with a smoke control system in accordance with California Building Code, Section 909.
914.3.8.2 Smokeproof exit enclosures. Every exit enclosure in high-rise buildings shall comply with California Building Code, Sections 909.20 and 1023.12. Every required stairway in Group I-2 occupancies serving floors more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall comply with Sections 909.20 and 1023.12 of the California Building Code.
Exception: In high-rise buildings, exit enclosures serving three or less adjacent floors where one of the adjacent floors is the level of exit discharge.
914.4 Atriums. Atriums shall comply with Sections 914.4.1 and 914.4.2.
914.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire building.
Exceptions:
- That area of a building adjacent to or above the atrium need not be sprinklered, provided that portion of the building is separated from the atrium portion by not less than a 2-hour fire barrier 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.
- Where the ceiling of the atrium is more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the floor, sprinkler protection at the ceiling of the atrium is not required.
914.4.2 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be provided where required by Section 907.2.14.
914.5 Underground buildings. Underground buildings shall comply with Sections 914.5.1 through 914.5.5.
914.5.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The highest level of exit discharge serving the underground portions of the building and all levels below shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Waterflow switches and control valves shall be supervised in accordance with Section 903.4.1.
914.5.2 Smoke control system. A smoke control system is required to control the migration of products of combustion in accordance with Section 909 and provisions of this section. Smoke control shall restrict movement of smoke to the general area of fire origin and maintain means of egress in a usable condition.
914.5.3 Compartment smoke control system. Where compartmentation is required by Section 405.4 of the California Building Code, each compartment shall have an independent smoke control system. The system shall be automatically activated and capable of manual operation in accordance with Section 907.2.18.
CFC § 907.2.11.8. Medium relevance — show source text
Required smoke detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 in dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or university for student or staff housing shall be interconnected with the fire alarm system to activate the occupant notification in accordance with NFPA 72 and shall comply with Section 907.2.11.8.
907.2.10 Group S. A fire alarm system shall be installed in a Group S occupancy as required by Sections 907.2.10.1 and 907.2.10.2.
907.2.10.1 Public- and self-storage occupancies. A manual fire alarm system that activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group S public- and self-storage occupancies three stories or greater in height for interior corridors and interior common areas. Visible notification appliances are not required within storage units.
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not required where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.10.2 Storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries. A fire alarm system activated by an air-sampling-type smoke detection system or a radiant-energy-sensing detection system shall be installed throughout the entire fire area where required for the storage of lithium-ion batteries or lithium metal batteries in accordance with Section 320.
907.2.11 Single- and multiple-station smoke alarms. Listed single- and multiple-station smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1 through 907.2.11.7, NFPA 72 and the manufacturer’s instructions. Exception: For Group R occupancies. A fire alarm system with smoke detectors located in accordance with this section may be installed in lieu of smoke alarms. Upon actuation of the detector, only those notification appliances in the dwelling unit or guest room where the detector is actuated shall activate.
907.2.11.1 Group R-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the following locations in Group R-1:
- In sleeping areas.
- In every room in the path of the means of egress from the sleeping area to the door leading from the sleeping unit.
- In each story within the sleeping unit, including basements. For sleeping units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level. See Section 907.2.10.8 for specific location requirements. 907.2.11.2 Groups R-2, R-2.1, R-2.2, R-3, R-3.1 and R-4 and I-1. Single- or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-2.1, R-2.2, R-3, R-3.1 and R-4 regardless of occupant load at all of the following locations:
- On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of bedrooms.
- In each room used for sleeping purposes.
- In each story within a dwelling unit, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics.
Frequently asked questions
When does a sprinkler system allow me to omit a manual pull station?
Some occupancy subsections allow omission of manual fire alarm boxes when the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system and the occupant notification appliances will activate upon sprinkler waterflow. Check the exact exception in the applicable occupancy § (for example § 907.2.8.1 and § 907.2.9.1).
Are unit smoke alarms sufficient for a hotel corridor requirement?
No. Hotels/motels with interior corridors serving sleeping units require automatic smoke detection in those corridors per § 907.2.8.2 in addition to required unit alarms.
For new apartments, must smoke alarms be hard‑wired?
Yes — in new construction required smoke alarms must receive primary power from the building wiring and have battery backup; they must also be interconnected so one alarm sounds all alarms in the unit (see § 907.2.11.5–6).
If a detector in a dorm room is tied to the building fire alarm, must the whole building alarm sound?
For college/university housing the code requires that required dwelling/sleeping unit detectors be interconnected with the fire alarm system to activate occupant notification as specified in § 907.2.9.3. That interconnection and zoning is addressed in NFPA 72 and the cited sections.
Who decides ambiguous cases (e.g., corridor vs direct exterior egress)?
The fire code official (authority having jurisdiction) interprets exceptions that depend on building configuration (for example whether sleeping units have direct exterior egress or whether an open‑ended corridor qualifies). Always consult the local enforcing agency for final determination.
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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