CFC · California Fire Code

Dead-end access, required turnarounds and Appendix D sizing (hammerhead/Y/cul‑de‑sac)

Q: When exactly does Table D103.4 apply?

Table D103.4 applies to dead‑end fire apparatus access roads that exceed 150 feet in length; the table prescribes the minimum width and the required turnaround type/size for the listed length bands. § D103.4

Q: If there is a hydrant on the road, which width controls — 20 ft or 26 ft?

The hydrant rule in § D103.1 requires 26 ft where a hydrant is located on the access road. Where Table D103.4 lists 20 ft for a given band, the hydrant provision will still require 26 ft in that location. Check both provisions.

Q: Can I use a smaller hammerhead or a smaller cul‑de‑sac if the fire department agrees?

Table D103.4 prescribes 120‑ft hammerhead , 60‑ft Y , or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac ; deviations require approval by the fire code official or special approval per the table (over 750 ft). Also note the fire code official can set turning radius requirements. § D103.4 , § D103.3

Q: What are the gate minimum widths and what else is required for gates?

A single gate must be at least 20 ft wide; divided roadways require 12 ft openings. Gates must be operable manually by one person, maintained operable, and electric gates must have an approved emergency opening method; other locking/operation details must be approved/listed. § D103.5

If your driveway or road ends in a dead end longer than 150 feet, the California Fire Code’s Appendix D says you must provide a specified turnaround and minimum road width: 20 ft for 151–500 ft (26 ft when a hydrant is present), 26 ft for 501–750 ft, plus one of the approved turnarounds (120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft Y, or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac). Gates must meet minimum widths and emergency‑opening requirements; the fire code official may require changes or approvals. **§ D103.4**, **§ D103.1**, **§ D103.5**.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Dead‑end fire apparatus access roads longer than 150 feet must be widened or provided with an approved turnaround sized to the options in Table D103.4. The Appendix also requires a 26‑foot minimum road width where a fire hydrant is located on the access road, and sets gate minimum widths and operational requirements for gates on fire apparatus access roads. See § D103.4, § D103.1, and § D103.5 for the controlling text.

The single most important rule: if a dead‑end fire apparatus access road is over 150 ft, provide the width and one of the turnaround configurations shown in Table D103.4 (hammerhead, 60‑foot “Y”, or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac).

Requirements in detail

Scope / Appendix status

Appendix D is guidance for fire apparatus access roads and is not mandatory unless adopted or referenced by the jurisdiction; it is intended to add detail to the basic access requirements in Section 503 of the Fire Code.

Key dimensions and decision rules (short)

Dead‑end length threshold: 150 feet — above this you must provide width/turnaround per Table D103.4. § D103.4
Hydrant on access road: minimum road width 26 feet (exclusive of shoulders). § D103.1
Gate widths (single gate): minimum 20 feet; divided roadways, minimum 12 feet per gate opening. § D103.5 (1)

Table — Dead‑end length vs. required width & turnaround

Dead‑end fire apparatus access road length	Required minimum width	Acceptable turnarounds / sizing	Code Reference
0–150 ft	20 ft	None required	Table D103.4 / § D103.4
151–500 ft	20 ft	120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft “Y”, or 96‑ft diameter cul‑de‑sac (see Figure D103.1)	Table D103.4 / § D103.4
501–750 ft	26 ft	120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft “Y”, or 96‑ft diameter cul‑de‑sac (see Figure D103.1)	Table D103.4 / § D103.4
Over 750 ft	Special approval required	Special approval required	Table D103.4 / § D103.4

Notes:

The 26‑ft width for the 501–750 ft band is the same dimension used where a hydrant is present—confirm the controlling condition(s) when a hydrant is also located on the road. § D103.1, § D103.4

Turnarounds — forms and sizing

The Appendix lists three alternate turnaround forms that meet the requirement for the bands above:
- 120‑foot hammerhead (dimension shown in the Appendix figure) — accepted option per Table D103.4. § D103.4
- 60‑foot “Y” — accepted option per Table D103.4. § D103.4
- 96‑foot diameter cul‑de‑sac — accepted option per Table D103.4 and Figure D103.1. § D103.4

Gates and operability

Gates that secure a fire apparatus access road must meet the criteria in § D103.5, including:
- Single gate width ≥ 20 ft; divided roadway gate width ≥ 12 ft. § D103.5 (1)
- Gate types: horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift, or vertical pivot. § D103.5 (2)
- Gates must be operable manually by one person, maintained operable, and electric gates must provide an approved means for fire department emergency opening; locking methods and electric operators are subject to approval/listing. § D103.5 (3–8)

Other D103 items to check (brief)

Grade limits and turning radius: Appendix D contains D103.2 (grade) and D103.3 (turning radius); the grade limit is 10% (exception possible) and the turning radius is determined by the fire code official. These are important in practice and interact with turnaround feasibility. § D103.2, § D103.3

Exceptions & special cases

Over 750 ft dead‑end length: special approval required — the table requires local authority/fire code official review (no prescriptive sizing given). § D103.4
Where a hydrant is located on the access road, the 26‑ft minimum width applies regardless of the dead‑end band; check both § D103.1 and Table D103.4 when both conditions exist.
The Appendix is advisory unless adopted by the jurisdiction — confirm whether your local adopting ordinance makes Appendix D requirements mandatory in your project area.
The fire code official retains authority: some dimensions (e.g., turning radius, alternative designs) can be adjusted or required to be larger at the fire code official’s discretion. § D103.3 (turning radius determined by fire code official) and the special‑approval entries in Table D103.4 apply.

Common mistakes

Assuming Appendix D is automatically mandatory — many users forget the Appendix is advisory unless adopted locally. Confirm local adoption.
Mixing the hydrant width rule and the dead‑end table without checking both: where a hydrant exists the 26‑ft rule in § D103.1 controls; it can override the 20‑ft requirement in Table D103.4 for some lengths.
Using a hammerhead or “T” shorter than 120 ft (hammerhead) or 60 ft (top of T/Y) for the lengths shown in Table D103.4 — the table prescribes those sizes. § D103.4
Forgetting gate operational requirements: electric gates must have an approved emergency opening method and gates must be operable manually by one person. § D103.5

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A new residential cul‑de‑sac serves homes on a dead‑end street with a paved surface. The longest branch from the intersection to the dead end measures 620 feet, and a fire hydrant is located along that access road.

Step 1 — Length band: 620 ft falls in the 501–750 ft band in Table D103.4, so the table requires a minimum road width of 26 ft and one of the three turnaround options. § D103.4

Step 2 — Hydrant rule: because a hydrant sits on the road, § D103.1 also requires a 26‑ft minimum road width (the same number in this band), so the width requirement is satisfied but must be documented per § D103.1.

Step 3 — Turnaround selection: choose any of the accepted options:

Provide a 120‑ft hammerhead clear and constructed per the Appendix figure; or
Provide a 60‑ft Y; or
Provide a 96‑ft diameter cul‑de‑sac. § D103.4

Step 4 — Gates and other controls: if a gate is used to secure the access road, ensure gate width is ≥ 20 ft (single gate) and that the gate meets the operational requirements in § D103.5 (manual single‑person operation, emergency opening for electric gates, etc.).

Result: Provide a 26‑ft wide road with a 120‑ft hammerhead (or other listed option) and document gate/hydrant compliance to meet § D103.1, § D103.4, and § D103.5.

Related provisions (quick list)

§ D101.1 — Scope of Appendix D (application to fire apparatus access roads).
§ D102.1 — Fire apparatus access road loading and surface requirements (75,000 lb design).
§ D103.2 — Grade limit (10% normally; exception possible).
§ D103.3 — Turning radius (determined by fire code official).
Section 503 (Fire Code) — base requirements for fire apparatus access (Appendix D supplements these).

Note: Appendix D does not itself define the term dead‑end road; that specific definition appears in other California regulations (for example, Title 14 definitions for wildland provisions), so confirm the local authoritative definition if needed.

Code references

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

CFC § 304.8 High relevance — show source text

SECTION D102—REQUIRED ACCESS

D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 75,000 pounds (34 050 kg).

SECTION D103—MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS

D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders (see Figure D103.1).

FIGURE D103.1—DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND

60-FOOT “Y”

MINIMUM CLEARANCE AROUND A FIRE HYDRANT

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

D103.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 percent in grade.

Exception: Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by the fire code official.

D103.3 Turning radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by the fire code official.

D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.

2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX D-3

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APPENDIX D—FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

TABLE D103.4—REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS	Col2	Col3
LENGTH (feet)	WIDTH (feet)	TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
0–150	20	None required
151–500	20	120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with Figure D103.1
501–750	26	120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with Figure D103.1
Over 750	Special approval required	Special approval required
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.	For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.	For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria:

Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
Gates shall be of the horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift or vertical pivot type.
Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person.
Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective.
Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be approved by the fire code official.
Methods of locking shall be submitted for approval by the fire code official.
Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.

CFC § 1273.04 High relevance — show source text
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.04 Radius.

(a) No road or road structure shall have a horizontal inside radius of curvature of less than fifty (50) feet. An additional surface width of four (4) feet shall be added to curves of 50-100 feet radius; two (2) feet to those from 100-200 feet. (b) The length of vertical curves in roadways, exclusive of gutters, ditches, and drainage structures designed to hold or divert water, shall be not less than one hundred (100) feet.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.05 Turnarounds.

(a) Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads. (b) The minimum turning radius for a turnaround shall be forty (40) feet, not including parking, in accordance with the figures in 14 CCR §§ 1273.05(e) and 1273.05(f). If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided no more than 400 feet apart.

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

(d) A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within fifty (50) feet of the building. (e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are zoned five (5) acres or larger, turn- arounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals. (f) Figure A. Turnarounds on roads with two ten-foot traffic lanes. (g) Figure B. Turnarounds on driveways with one ten-foot traffic lane.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

FIGURE FOR CCR 1273.05—TURNAROUND EXAMPLES

1273.06 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five (25) foot taper on each end.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.08 Dead-end roads.

(a) The maximum length of a dead-end road, including all Dead-end Roads accessed from that dead-end road, shall not exceed the following cumulative lengths, regardless of the number of parcels served:

Parcels zoned for less than one acre – 800 feet

Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet

Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet
CFC § 1273.05 High relevance — show source text
APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

(d) A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within fifty (50) feet of the building. (e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are zoned five (5) acres or larger, turn- arounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals. (f) Figure A. Turnarounds on roads with two ten-foot traffic lanes. (g) Figure B. Turnarounds on driveways with one ten-foot traffic lane.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

FIGURE FOR CCR 1273.05—TURNAROUND EXAMPLES

1273.06 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five (25) foot taper on each end.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.08 Dead-end roads.

(a) The maximum length of a dead-end road, including all Dead-end Roads accessed from that dead-end road, shall not exceed the following cumulative lengths, regardless of the number of parcels served:

Parcels zoned for less than one acre – 800 feet

Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet

Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet

Parcels zoned for 20 acres or larger – 5,280 feet All lengths shall be measured from the edge of the road surface at the intersection that begins the road to the end of the road surface at its farthest point. Where a dead-end road crosses areas of differing zoned parcel sizes requiring different length limits, the shortest allowable length shall apply. (b) See Section 1273.05 for dead-end road turnaround requirements.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.09 Gate Entrances.

(a) Gate entrances shall be at least two (2) feet wider than the width of the traffic lane(s) serving that gate and a minimum width of fourteen (14) feet unobstructed horizontal clearance and unobstructed vertical clearance of thirteen feet, six inches (13' 6”). (b) All gates providing access from a road to a driveway shall be located at least thirty (30) feet from the roadway and shall open to allow a vehicle to stop without obstructing traffic on that Road. (c) Where a one-way road with a single traffic lane provides access to a gated entrance, a forty (40) foot turning radius shall be used.

(d) Security gates shall not be installed without approval. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. Approval shall be by the local authority having jurisdiction. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-13
CFC § 1273.02 High relevance — show source text
(a) Roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000 pounds and provide an aggregate base. (b) Road and driveway structures shall be designed and maintained to support at least 40,000 pounds. (c) Project proponent shall provide engineering specifications to support design, if requested by the local jurisdiction.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.02]

403.1.4 Grades.

(a) At no point shall the grade for all roads and driveways exceed 16 percent. (b) The grade may exceed 16 percent, not to exceed 20 percent, with approval from the local jurisdiction and with mitigations to provide for same practical effect.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.03]

403.1.5 Radius.

(a) No road or road structure shall have a minimum horizontal inside radius of curvature of fifty (50) feet. An additional surface width of four (4) feet shall be added to curves of 50–100 feet radius; two (2) feet to those from 100–200 feet. (b) The length of vertical curves in roadways, exclusive of gutters, ditches and drainage structures designed to hold or divert water, shall be not less than one hundred (100) feet.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.04]

403.1.6 Turnarounds.

(a) Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads. (b) The minimum turning radius for a turnaround shall be forty (40) feet, not including parking, in accordance with the figures in 14 CCR §§ 1273.05(e) and 1273.05(f). If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided not more than 400 feet apart. (d) A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within fifty (50) feet of the building. (e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are zoned five (5) acres or larger, turn- arounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals. (f) Figure A. Turnarounds on roads with two ten-foot traffic lanes. (g) Figure B. Turnarounds on driveways with one ten-foot traffic lane.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.05]

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WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

FIGURE A—TURNAROUND WITH TWO 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANES

FIGURE B—TURNAROUND WITH ONE 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANE

403.1.7 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five-foot taper on each end. [CCR, Title 14 §1273.06]
CFC § 1273.05 High relevance — show source text
If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in_ length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided not more than 400 feet apart. (d) A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within fifty (50) feet of the building. (e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are zoned five (5) acres or larger, turn- arounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals. (f) Figure A. Turnarounds on roads with two ten-foot traffic lanes. (g) Figure B. Turnarounds on driveways with one ten-foot traffic lane.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.05]

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WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

FIGURE A—TURNAROUND WITH TWO 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANES

FIGURE B—TURNAROUND WITH ONE 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANE

403.1.7 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five-foot taper on each end. [CCR, Title 14 §1273.06]

403.1.8 Road and Driveway Structures. (a) Appropriate signing, including but not limited to weight or vertical clearance limitations, one-way road or single traffic lane conditions, shall reflect the capability of each bridge. (b) Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a Fire Apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials Standard Specifications for High- way Bridges, 17 [th] Edition, published 2002 (known as AASHTO HB-17), hereby incorporated by reference. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when required by the local authority having jurisdiction. (c) Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are not designed for such use, barriers or signs, or both, as approved by the local authority having jurisdiction, shall be installed and maintained.

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WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

(d) A bridge with only one traffic lane may be authorized by the Local Jurisdiction; however, it shall provide for unobstructed visi- bility from one end to the other and turnouts at both ends.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.07]

403.1.9 Dead-end Roads.
CFC § 304.8 High relevance — show source text
- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX D-1

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APPENDIX D-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance or legislation of the jurisdiction.

User notes:

About this appendix: Appendix D contains more detailed elements for use with the basic access requirements found in Section 503, which gives some minimum criteria, such as a maximum length of 150 feet and a minimum width of 20 feet, but in many cases does not state specific criteria. This appendix, like Appendices B and C, is a tool for jurisdictions looking for guidance in establishing access requirements and includes criteria for multiple-family residential developments, large one- and two-family subdivisions, specific examples for various types of turnarounds for fire department apparatus and parking regulatory signage.

ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this appendix will be considered by the IFC Code Development Committee during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle.

SECTION D101—GENERAL

D101.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with this appendix and all other applicable requirements of the California Fire Code .

SECTION D102—REQUIRED ACCESS

D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 75,000 pounds (34 050 kg).

SECTION D103—MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS

D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders (see Figure D103.1).

FIGURE D103.1—DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND

60-FOOT “Y”

MINIMUM CLEARANCE AROUND A FIRE HYDRANT

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

D103.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 percent in grade.

Exception: Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by the fire code official.

D103.3 Turning radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by the fire code official.

D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.

2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX D-3

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APPENDIX D—FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
CFC § 1273.02 Medium relevance — show source text
Vertical clearances shall conform to the requirements in California Vehicle Code section 35250._ (b) All One-way Roads shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one twelve (12) foot traffic lane, not including Shoulders. The Local Jurisdiction may approve One-way Roads. (1) All one-way roads shall, at both ends, connect to a road with two traffic lanes providing for travel in different directions, and shall provide access to an area currently zoned for no more than ten (10) Residential Units. (2) In no case shall a One-way Road exceed 2,640 feet in length. A turnout shall be placed and constructed at approximately the midpoint of each One-way Road. (c) All driveways shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one (1) ten (10) foot traffic lane, fourteen (14) feet unobstructed horizontal clearance, and unobstructed vertical clearance of thirteen feet, six inches (13′ 6″).

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.02 Road surfaces.

(a) Roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000 pounds and provide an aggregate base. (b) Road and driveway structures shall be designed and maintained to support at least 40,000 pounds. (c) Project proponent shall provide engineering specifications to support design, if requested by the local jurisdiction.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.03 Grades.

(a) At no point shall the grade for all roads and driveways exceed 16 percent. (b) The grade may exceed 16%, not to exceed 20%, with approval from the local jurisdiction and with mitigations to provide for same practical effect.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.04 Radius.

(a) No road or road structure shall have a horizontal inside radius of curvature of less than fifty (50) feet. An additional surface width of four (4) feet shall be added to curves of 50-100 feet radius; two (2) feet to those from 100-200 feet. (b) The length of vertical curves in roadways, exclusive of gutters, ditches, and drainage structures designed to hold or divert water, shall be not less than one hundred (100) feet.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.05 Turnarounds.

(a) Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads. (b) The minimum turning radius for a turnaround shall be forty (40) feet, not including parking, in accordance with the figures in 14 CCR §§ 1273.05(e) and 1273.05(f). If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided no more than 400 feet apart.
California Fire Code Medium relevance — show source text
c.|12|96|86|118|106|140|128|190|176|244|226| |24″ o.c.|18|118|104|148|132|178|162|244|224|314|292| |24″ o.c.|24|142|124|178|158|216|196|298|274|384|356| |24″ o.c.|28|158|138|198|176|242|218|334|306|432|400| |24″ o.c.|32|172|150|218|194|268|240|370|340|480|444| |24″ o.c.|36|188|164|240|212|292|264|406|372|528|488| |24″ o.c.|42|212|184|270|240|332|298|460|422|600|556| |24″ o.c.|48|236|204|302|268|370|332|516|472|672|622| |||EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C|EXPOSURE C| |12″ o.c.|12|95|88|110|102|126|118|161|151|198|186| |12″ o.c.|18|121|111|141|131|163|151|208|195|257|242| |12″ o.c.|24|148|136|173|160|200|185|256|239|317|298| |12″ o.c.|28|166|152|195|179|225|208|289|269|358|335| |12″ o.c.|32|184|168|216|199|249|231|321|299|398|373| |12″ o.c.|36|202|185|237|219|274|254|353|329|438|411| |12″ o.c.|42|229|210|269|248|312|289|402|375|499|468| |12″ o.c.|48|256|234|302|278|349|323|450|420|560|524| |16″ o.c.|12|126|117|146|136|168|157|214|201|263|247| |16″ o.c.|18|161|148|188|174|217|201|277|259|342|322| |16″ o.c.|24|197|181|230|213|266|246|340|318|422|396| |16″ o.c.|28|221|202|259|238|299|277|384|358|476|446| |16″ o.c.|32|245|223|287|265|331|307|427|398|529|496| |16″ o.c.|36|269|246|315|291|364|338|469|438|583|547| |16″ o.c.|42|305|279|358|330|415|384|535|499|664|622| |16″ o.c.|48|340|311|402|370|464|430|599|559|745|697|
California Fire Code Medium relevance — show source text
e**|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e| |MEMBER & SPACING|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**| |MEMBER & SPACING|≤ 20 psf|≤ 20 psf|≤ 20 psf|30 psf|30 psf|30 psf|** 50 psf**|** 50 psf**|** 50 psf**|70 psf|70 psf|70 psf| |MEMBER & SPACING|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**| |MEMBER & SPACING|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft| |2 × 8 @ 12″|20″
(177)|15″
(227)|—|18″
(209)|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |2 × 10 @ 16″|29″
(228)|21″
(297)|16″
(364)|26″
(271)|18″
(354)|—|20″
(375)|—|—|—|—|—| |2 × 10 @ 12″|36″
(166)|26″
(219)|20″
(270)|34″
(198)|22″
(263)|16″
(324)|26″
(277)|—|—|19″
(356)|—|—| |2 × 12 @
California Fire Code Medium relevance — show source text
000 kcmil|4/0 − 1,000 kcmil|4/0 − 1,000 kcmil|−|−|x| |8 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|8 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|8 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|8 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|−|−|x| |16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|16 Terminal
(two-way
configuration)|

1 For approved suppliers, see Document 066211. 2 If using splices, 36” x 60” enclosure can accommodate up to 14 runs (7 in and 7 out or combination) of 1,000 kcmil or smaller wires. 3 350 kcmil and larger conductor installations require a 26-inch deep non-concrete enclosure or a 12-inch extension with a concrete enclosure. 4 The maximum number of runs of 750 kcmil and 1,000 kcmil conductors will be limited to a total of 2 runs (1 in and 1 out) not including or limiting other smaller conductors in the enclosure; otherwise a 36” x 60” enclosure is needed.

Rev. #22: 03−25−22 028028 Page 3 of 14

UG-1: Enclosures Greenbook Secondary Electric Underground Enclosures

Installation of Enclosures in Special-Finish Sidewalks

Notes
1. Frequently the customer or city (or other public entity) installs special-finish sidewalks (brick, tile, terrazzo, etc.). When required with enclosures through 3’ x 5’, the enclosure and standard cover shall be installed 2-inch below the final grade, and the customer or city shall furnish and install the special-finish cover as illustrated in Figure 1 on Page 4
2. The requirements for this cover shall be as follows:
A. No single section of cover shall exceed 125 pounds.

B. Provisions for removal shall be provided.

C. The special-finish cover shall be identified by the letter “E” to indicate the location of the PG&E splice enclosure.

D. This type of enclosure shall not be installed in locations where vehicular traffic is expected.

E. Caution: PG&E cover design allows for a maximum of 1/2-inch deflection under an 8,000-pound or 12,000-pound design load, depending on the specified cover.

Timber Sidewalk Surface

Full Radius Bends

Figure 1 Installation of Enclosures in Special-Finish Sidewalks

Figure 2 Installation of Non-Concrete Enclosures in Sidewalks

028028 Page 4 of 14 Rev. #22: 03−25−22

UG-1: Enclosures Greenbook Secondary Electric Underground Enclosures

Streetlight Enclosure Assembly

Notes
1. In conduit systems, enter the bottom of the box with 90 ° sweeps.
2. Do not connect more than two streetlights per enclosure.
3. Three is the maximum number of conduits allowed.
4. For streetlight applications only (see Table 1 on Page 3).
CFC § 3.6.3 Medium relevance — show source text
3.6.3(7)—AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITYa, b**|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMANDc|Minimum
nozzle
pressure
(psi)|Minimum
nozzle
pressure
(psi)|30|30| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(7)—AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITYa, b|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMANDc|On-end storage of drumson
pallets, up to 25 feet|On-end storage of drumson
pallets, up to 25 feet|1.
Ordinary temperature
sprinkler up to 10 feet apart
horizontally
2.
One line sprinklers above
each level of storage
3.
Locate in longitudinal flue
space, staggered vertically
4.
Shields required for multiple-
level|1.
Ordinary temperature
sprinkler up to 10 feet apart
horizontally
2.
One line sprinklers above
each level of storage
3.
Locate in longitudinal flue
space, staggered vertically
4.
Shields required for multiple-
level| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(7)—AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITYa, b|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Area
(square feet)|Ordinary
temperature
sprinklers|2,500|2,500| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(7)—AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITYa, b|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Area
(square feet)|High-
temperature
sprinklers|1,500|1,500| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(7)—AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITYa, b|CEILING SPRINKLER DESIGN AND DEMAND|Density
(gpm/ft2)|Density
(gpm/ft2)|0.30|0.30| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(7)—AUTOMATIC AFFF WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS GREATER THAN 5-GALLON CAPACITYa, b|CLASS LIQUID|CLASS LIQUID|CLASS LIQUID|IA, IB, IC and II|IA, IB, IC and II|

57-26 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
CFC § 601.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Dead-end Road 202 Defensible Space 403, 601.3 Vegetation Plan 603 Definitions 202 Designation of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.1

Director 202 Driveway 202 Dumping Appendix A, A106 Dwelling 202

Exterior Covering 202

INDEX

Fees 109 Findings of Fact Appendix E Fire Chief 202 Fire Danger Rating System Appendix D Fire Flow Calculation Area Application 404.5 Defined 202 Fire Hazard Severity Zones 1.1.2, 202, 302.1, 302.2, Appendix D, Appendix H Fire Protection Plans 602

Fire Weather 202

Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction 501.3 Fire-Resistive Vegetation Appendix F Fire-Retardant-Treated Lumber or

Wood 503.2, 504.5, 504.7, 504.11 Flame Spread Index 202 Flashing 504.2.1, 504.5.1 Fuel Break 202, 609 Fuel Models Appendix D Fuel Modification 202

Fuel Modification Distance 603.2

Fuel Mosaic 202 Fuel-Loading 202

General Requirements Appendix A Green Belt 202

Greenways 202

Hammerhead/T 202 Hazardous Land Use 202

Hazardous Materials 202 Heavy Timber Construction 202

Ignition Source Control Appendix A, A104 Ignition-Resistant Building Material 202, 503 Ignition-Resistant Construction 504 Appendages 504.7 Detached accessory structures 504.11 Eaves 504.3

Exterior doors 504.9

Exterior walls 504.5

Gutters and downspouts 504.4 Protection of eaves 504.3 Roof covering 504.2 Underfloor protection 504.6 Vents 504.10

Windows 504.8 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material 503 Inspection and Enforcement 109 Abatement 109.3.8 Authority to inspect 109.1.2 Citations 109.3.4

Enforcement 109.2 Placarding 109.3.5.3 Prosecution 109.3.6

Reinspections 109.1.3 Right of entry 104.4 Testing 109.1.4 Unsafe conditions 109.3.5

Key Box 403.1

Land Use Limitations Appendix A, A108 Legal Defense of the Code Official 104.8.1 Liability of the Code Official 104.8

Log Wall Construction 202 LP-Gas Installations 606

Maintenance 101.6 Maintenance of Defensible Space 604 Modified area 604.2 Responsibility 604.3 Trees 604.4 Mapping of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.2 Multilayered Glazed Panels 202

Noncombustible Roof Covering 202

Outbuilding 202

Frequently asked questions

When exactly does Table D103.4 apply?

Table D103.4 applies to dead‑end fire apparatus access roads that exceed 150 feet in length; the table prescribes the minimum width and the required turnaround type/size for the listed length bands. § D103.4

If there is a hydrant on the road, which width controls — 20 ft or 26 ft?

The hydrant rule in § D103.1 requires 26 ft where a hydrant is located on the access road. Where Table D103.4 lists 20 ft for a given band, the hydrant provision will still require 26 ft in that location. Check both provisions.

Can I use a smaller hammerhead or a smaller cul‑de‑sac if the fire department agrees?

Table D103.4 prescribes 120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft Y, or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac; deviations require approval by the fire code official or special approval per the table (over 750 ft). Also note the fire code official can set turning radius requirements. § D103.4, § D103.3

Are Appendix D provisions mandatory everywhere?

No — Appendix D is guidance and is not mandatory unless the adopting jurisdiction references or adopts it. Always confirm local adoption.

What are the gate minimum widths and what else is required for gates?

A single gate must be at least 20 ft wide; divided roadways require 12 ft openings. Gates must be operable manually by one person, maintained operable, and electric gates must have an approved emergency opening method; other locking/operation details must be approved/listed. § D103.5

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California Fire Code