CFC · California Fire Code

Minimum width, vertical clearance, surface and turning-radius requirements

For homeowners: fire apparatus access roads must be at least 20 feet wide and 13 feet 6 inches high, be built and maintained to carry fire trucks in all weather, and include a turnaround if a dead end is longer than 150 feet; local fire officials may require wider roads or specific turn radii (for example, 26 feet where a hydrant is on the road).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Fire department access roads must provide an unobstructed minimum width of 20 feet and vertical clearance of 13 feet 6 inches so fire apparatus can reach buildings; these are the baseline dimensions in § 503.2.1. The roadway surface must be capable of carrying the imposed loads and provide all‑weather driving capability (see § 503.2.3). The required turning radius is set by the local fire department (the fire code official) rather than a fixed number in the main text—see § 503.2.4. Bridges or elevated portions of an access road must be designed to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus per § 503.2.6.

Keep the access road unobstructed and built to hold fire apparatus: at least 20 ft wide, 13 ft 6 in vertical clearance, surfaced for all‑weather use, and turning capability approved by the fire department (see § 503.2.1, § 503.2.3, § 503.2.4, § 503.2.6).

Requirements in detail

Key defined terms (first mention)

  • Fire apparatus access road — the roadway used by fire department vehicles to reach a building or facility; dimensions and performance requirements are in § 503.2.1 through § 503.2.8.
  • Unobstructed width / vertical clearance — clear space available to the traveling fire apparatus; shoulders and parked vehicles do not count toward the required unobstructed width per § 503.2.1 and related marking/obstruction rules.

Quick reference table — decision‑relevant dimensions and values

Requirement Value / threshold Code Reference
Minimum unobstructed width (baseline) 20 feet (6096 mm) § 503.2.1
Minimum unobstructed vertical clearance 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm) § 503.2.1
Road surface (structure & weather capability) Designed & maintained to support imposed fire apparatus loads; all‑weather driving § 503.2.3
Turning radius Determined by the fire code official (no single numeric value in § 503.2.4) § 503.2.4
Dead‑end length trigger If > 150 feet (45,720 mm), approved turnaround required § 503.2.5
Dead‑end minimum widths & turnarounds (Appendix D guidance) See table below (D103.4); e.g., 0–150 ft = 20 ft; 151–500 ft = 20 ft (with turnaround) Table D103.4 / D103.4 (Appendix D)
Width when a hydrant is on the access road (Appendix D) 26 feet (7925 mm) minimum where a hydrant is located on the roadway D103.1 (Appendix D)
Aerial fire apparatus access road min. width (near building) 26 feet (7925 mm) D105.2 (Appendix D)
Bridges / elevated surfaces Designed per AASHTO HB‑17; live loads sufficient for imposed fire apparatus load; post vehicle limits as required § 503.2.6

Appendix D (informational unless adopted locally) provides typical turnaround shapes and minimums: Table D103.4 shows required turnarounds and widths for dead‑end roads by length (e.g., 151–500 ft requires a 120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft “Y” or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac) and D103.1 raises width to 26 ft where a hydrant sits on the road.

Surface and structural capability

  • The surface must be designed and maintained to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus and provide all‑weather access; the code explicitly requires structural capability (see § 503.2.3 and § 503.2.6 for bridges).
  • Appendix D recommends design capacity for 75,000‑lb apparatus in its guidance (D102.1), which jurisdictions often use when adopting detailed local standards. If your jurisdiction enforces Appendix D, use that guidance in design.

Turning radius and maneuvering

  • The main code delegates turning‑radius requirements to the fire code official: there is no fixed turning‑radius number in § 503.2.4; instead the fire department determines what its apparatus need on a case‑by‑case basis. Appendix D provides sample minimum turnarounds and radii for dead ends (Table D103.4 and figures).

Exceptions & special cases

  • The fire code official may permit modifications to width/clearance where local apparatus or site conditions require it; authority to alter minimums is found in § 503.2.2 and related sections. If the official approves, alternate means may be required.
  • Dead‑end roads ≤ 150 feet typically do not require a turnaround; longer dead‑ends require turnarounds in accordance with § 503.2.5 and Appendix D guidance (Table D103.4).
  • Where a hydrant is on the access road, Appendix D raises the minimum roadway width to 26 feet, even though the baseline in § 503.2.1 is 20 feet—this is an adopted appendix provision jurisdictions commonly rely on (see D103.1). Confirm with your AHJ whether Appendix D is enforced locally.
  • Bridges/elevated surfaces must meet AASHTO HB‑17 requirements and be posted for load limits when required by the official—see § 503.2.6.

If your jurisdiction has not adopted Appendix D, remember that Appendix D is guidance and is not automatically mandatory—check local adoption language. The code text retrieved shows Appendix D content (guidance) and the core requirements in Section 503; whether Appendix D dimensions apply is jurisdiction‑specific.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming shoulders or parked cars count toward the 20‑ft unobstructed width—they do not; the width must be unobstructed per § 503.2.1 and § 503.4.
  • Expecting a universal turning‑radius number in the main code. The code intentionally delegates turning radius to the fire code official (§ 503.2.4); do not design to a single value unless the AHJ or Appendix D specifies one.
  • Failing to design bridges/elevated surfaces for fire apparatus live loads; § 503.2.6 requires bridges to carry imposed apparatus loads and follow AASHTO HB‑17.
  • Overlooking the 26‑ft width requirement when a hydrant is located on the access road (see D103.1). Many designers miss this because the baseline § 503.2.1 lists 20 ft.
  • Not coordinating with the local fire department for exceptions, turn radius determinations, or approval of alternative measures; many elements are discretionary to the fire code official (§ 503.2.2, § 503.2.4).

Worked example — applying the code to a site

Scenario: A private access road will serve a new multi‑unit building. The access road is a dead end 260 feet from the public street to the building. A fire hydrant is located on the access road 50 feet from the building.

Apply the code:

  1. Baseline unobstructed width = 20 ft per § 503.2.1. Vertical clearance = 13 ft 6 in.
  2. Because a hydrant is located on the road, Appendix D’s D103.1 raises the minimum width to 26 ft where a hydrant is on the access road; you must use 26 ft unless the AHJ approves otherwise.
  3. Dead‑end length is 260 ft, which falls in the 151–500 ft range of Table D103.4 (Appendix D). That table requires a turnaround—options include a 120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft “Y”, or 96‑ft diameter cul‑de‑sac—and a minimum width of 20 ft in the base table; because D103.1 applies the hydrant rule, you would provide the 26‑ft width and one of the approved turnarounds (hammerhead/Y/cul‑de‑sac) as shown in Table D103.4.
  4. Ensure the road surface and any bridge/elevated section are designed to carry imposed fire apparatus loads (see § 503.2.3 and § 503.2.6). Confirm the turning‑radius requirement with the fire code official because § 503.2.4 delegates radius to the AHJ.

Bottom line for the scenario: provide an unobstructed, 26‑ft wide all‑weather surface with 13 ft 6 in clearance, one of the Appendix D turnaround types sized per Table D103.4, and structural capacity for the imposed apparatus loads; coordinate final turning‑radius details with the fire code official.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 503.1.1 — Required distance of access to building (150 ft rule and exceptions).
  • § 503.2.2 — Authority of the fire code official to modify dimensions.
  • § 503.2.5 — Dead‑end fire apparatus access road requirements and turnarounds.
  • § 503.2.6 — Bridges and elevated surfaces design/load requirements.
  • Appendix D — D102.1, D103.1, D103.3, D103.4, D105.2 — Appendix guidance for access road loading, hydrant widths, grade, minimum turning/turnaround options and aerial apparatus access widths (informational unless locally adopted).

Code references

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

  • CFC § 3.05 High relevance — show source text

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.05(a)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roads)

    (a) Roads. Required access roads from every building to a public street shall be all-weather hard-surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-of-way not less than 20 feet in width. Such right-of-way shall be unobstructed and maintained only as access to the public street.

    Exception: The enforcing agency may waive or modify this requirement if in his opinion such all-weather hard-surfaced condition is not necessary in the interest of public safety and welfare.

    503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).

    503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require or permit modifications to the required access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.

    503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.

    503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire code official.

    503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus.

    503.2.6 Bridges and elevated surfaces. 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 AASHTO HB-17. 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 where required by the fire code official. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces that are not designed for such use, approved barriers, approved signs or both shall be installed and maintained where required by the fire code official.

    503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

    503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure for fire apparatus access roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

    503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices or markings that include the words “NO PARKING—FIRE LANE” shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. The means by which fire lanes are designated shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.

    503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances established in Sections 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 shall be maintained at all times.

    503.4.1 Traffic calming devices. Traffic calming devices shall be prohibited unless approved by the fire code official.

  • CFC § 1.1. High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet (45 720 mm) where any of the following conditions occur:

    1.1. The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3. 1.2. Fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided. 1.3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies. 2. Where approved by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be permitted to be exempted or modified for solar photovoltaic power generation facilities.

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    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    503.1.2 Additional access. The fire code official is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access.

    503.1.3 High-piled storage. Fire department vehicle access to buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 32.

    503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.05(a)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roads)

    (a) Roads. Required access roads from every building to a public street shall be all-weather hard-surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-of-way not less than 20 feet in width. Such right-of-way shall be unobstructed and maintained only as access to the public street.

    Exception: The enforcing agency may waive or modify this requirement if in his opinion such all-weather hard-surfaced condition is not necessary in the interest of public safety and welfare.

    503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).

    503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require or permit modifications to the required access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.

    503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.

    503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire code official.

    503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus.

  • 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.

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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:

    1. 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).
    2. Gates shall be of the horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift or vertical pivot type.
    3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person.
    4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective.
    5. 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.
    6. Methods of locking shall be submitted for approval by the fire code official.
    7. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
  • 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.

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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.

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    APPENDIX D—FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

  • CFC § 1273.09 Medium relevance — show source text

    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.

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    APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

    1273.10 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 Highway Bridges, 17th 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. (d) A bridge with only one traffic lane may be authorized by the local jurisdiction; however, it shall provide for unobstructed visibil- ity from one end to the other and turnouts at both ends.

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

    Article 3 Signing and Building Numbering

    1274.00. Intent. To facilitate locating a fire and to avoid delays in response, all newly constructed or approved Roads and Buildings shall be designated by names or numbers posted on signs clearly visible and legible from the Road. This section shall not restrict the size of letters or numbers appearing on road signs for other purposes.

  • CFC § 17.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    8|17.4|1.5|2.5|3.4|5.1|0.6|1.0|1.3|1.9| |10|7.7|13.1|17.8|26.3|2.3|3.8|5.2|7.7|0.8|1.4|2.0|2.9| |12|10.8|18.4|24.9|NP|3.2|5.4|7.3|10.7|1.2|2.0|2.7|4.0| |14|14.4|24.5|NP|NP|4.2|7.1|9.6|14.3|1.6|2.7|3.6|5.4| |16|18.4|NP|NP|NP|5.4|9.1|12.4|18.3|2.0|3.4|4.7|6.9| |18|22.9|NP|NP|NP|6.7|11.4|15.4|22.7|2.5|4.3|5.8|8.6| |20|27.8|NP|NP|NP|8.1|13.8|18.7|27.6|3.1|5.2|7.0|10.4| |22|NP|NP|NP|NP|9.7|16.5|22.3|NP|3.7|6.2|8.4|12.4| |24|NP|NP|NP|NP|11.4|19.3|26.2|NP|4.3|7.3|9.9|14.6| |26|NP|NP|NP|NP|13.2|22.4|NP|NP|5.0|8.5|11.4|16.9| |28|NP|NP|NP|NP|15.1|25.7|NP|NP|5.7|9.7|13.1|19.4| |30|NP|NP|NP|NP|17.2|NP|NP|NP|6.5|11.0|14.9|22.0| |32|NP|NP|NP|NP|19.4|NP|NP|NP|7.3|12.4|16.8|24.8| |34|NP|NP|NP|NP|21.7|NP|NP|NP|8.2|13.9|18.8|NP| |36|NP|NP|NP|NP|24.1|NP|NP|NP|9.1|15.4|20.9|NP| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 0.063 L/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
    NP = Not Permitted. Pressure loss exceeds reasonable limits.
    a. Values are applicable for underground piping materials listed in_ the California Plumbing Code_ and are based on an SDR of 11 and a Hazen Williams C Factor of 150.
    b. Values include the following length allowances for fittings: 25-percent length increase for actual lengths up to 100 feet and 15-percent length increase for actual lengths over
    100 feet.
    c. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.

  • CFC § 35-5 Medium relevance — show source text

    x 36
    Cover|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|35-5/8|35-1/8|24| |||||||||||| |Enclosure Size
    (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)|Dimensions (inches)| |Enclosure Size
    (inches)|K|L|M|N|P|Q|R|S|T|U| |13 x 24 x 18|−|−|−|−|−|15-3/4|4-5/8||24-7/8|15-3/8| |−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−| |13 x 24 x 26|−|−|−|−|−|15-3/4|4-1/2|−|25-3/16|15-5/8| |13 x 24
    Cover|13-1/2|9-7/8|5-1/8|1-3/8|2|−|−|8|−|−| |17 x 30 x 18|−|−|−|−|−|19-1/2|4-5/8|−|32-1/8|19-1/8| |−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−| |17 x 30 x 26|−|−|−|−|−|19-1/2|4-1/2||32-3/8|19-3/8| |17 x 30
    Cover|17-1/4|13-1/4|6-3/4|1-3/8|2|−|−|9|−|−| |24 x 36 x 18|−|−|−|−|−|26|6|−|37-1/4|25-5/8| |−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−|−| |24 x 36 x 26|−|−|−|−|−|26|6|−|37-9/16|25-15/16| |24 x 36
    Cover|23-1/2|15-9/16|9-3/4|5|3|−|−|11|−|−|

    Table 5 Knockout Dimensions from Center of Wall of Non-Concrete

    Enclosures Col2 Col3 Col4
    Enclosure Size1 Dimensions (inches) Dimensions (inches) Number of Knockouts
    Enclosure Size1 V W W
    13” x 24” x 26” 7-1/2 0 6
    17” x 30” x 26” 10-1/2 5 8
    24” x 36” x 26” 11 5-1/2 8

    1 Knockouts in 26” deep enclosures only.

    028028 Page 8 of 14 Rev. #22: 03−25−22

    UG-1: Enclosures Greenbook Secondary Electric Underground Enclosures

    17” x 30” (#2) Concrete Enclosures for Full-Vehicular Traffic

  • CFC § 903.3.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    accesses.

    SECTION D105—AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    D105.1 Where required. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest roof surface exceeds 30 feet (9144 mm), approved aerial fire apparatus access roads shall be provided. For purposes of this section, the highest roof surface shall be

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    APPENDIX D—FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    determined by measurement to the eave of a pitched roof, the intersection of the roof to the exterior wall, or the top of parapet walls, whichever is greater.

    Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, buildings of Type IA, Type IB or Type IIA construction equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and having firefighter access through an enclosed stairway with a Class I standpipe from the lowest level of fire department vehicle access to all roof surfaces.

    D105.2 Width. Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders, in the immediate vicinity of the building or portion thereof.

    D105.3 Proximity to building. One or more of the required access routes meeting this condition shall be located not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) and not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. The side of the building on which the aerial fire apparatus access road is positioned shall be approved by the fire code official.

    D105.4 Obstructions. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located over the aerial fire apparatus access road or between the aerial fire apparatus road and the building. Other obstructions shall be permitted to be placed with the approval of the fire code official.

    SECTION D106—MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS

    D106.1 Projects having more than 100 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 100 dwelling units shall be equipped throughout with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

    Exception: Projects having up to 200 dwelling units shall have not fewer than one approved fire apparatus access road where all buildings, including nonresidential occupancies, are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    D106.2 Projects having more than 200 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads regardless of whether they are equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

    D106.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.

    SECTION D107—ONE- OR TWO-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS

    D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of one- or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 30 shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

  • CFC § 12-7 Medium relevance — show source text


    Title 19, Division 1]|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |AASHTO HB-17—2002|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM D638—2022|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM D3909/D3909M_—2022_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E84_—2023d_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E119_—2022_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E136_—2024a_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E1354_—2023_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E2632—2020|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E2652—2022|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E2707—2022|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E2726/E2726M—
    2012a(2017)|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM E2957—2017|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |ASTM G155—2021|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |NFPA 252—2022|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |NFPA 257—2022|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |SFM 12-7A-1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |SFM 12-7A-2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |SFM 12-7A-3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |SFM 12-7A-4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |SFM 12-7A-4A|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 9—2009|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 10B—2008|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 10C—2016|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 94—2023|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 263_—2011|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 723—2018|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 790—2022_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface 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. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
  • CFC § 1009.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    1009.1 Moving walk 1003.7 Number 1001.2, 1006 Occupant load 1004 Parking 406.5.7 Protruding objects 1003.3, 1005.7 Ramps 1012, 1019, 1027 Scoping 101.3, 108.2, 1001.1 Seating, fixed 1009.1, 1030 Special amusement areas 411.4 Stages 410.2.3, 410.5 Stairways 403.5, 404.6, 1005.3.1, 1011, 1019, 1023, 1027 Temporary structures 3103.4 Travel distance (see Travel Distance) 1006.2.1,

    1017

    Turnstile 1010.5

    Underground buildings 405.5.1, 405.7 Width 1005.1, 1005.2, 1005.4, 1011.2, 1012.5.1, 1020.3, 1030.6, 1030.8 Mechanical (see Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration and Ventilation) 101.4.2 Access 1011.12, 1208.4 Air transfer openings 705.11, 706.11, 707.10, 708.9, 709.8, 712.1.6, 713.10, 714.1.1, 717 Chimneys (see Chimneys) Code Chapter 28 Disconnected 3303.6

    Ducts 704.7, 705.11, 706.11, 707.10, 708.9, 709.8, 710.8, 712.1.10.3, 712.1.6, 713.10, 714.1.1, 717 Encroachment, public right-of-way 3202.3.2 Equipment on roof 1511 Equipment platforms 505.3 Fireplaces 2111 Incidental use room Table 509.1

    Motion picture projection room 409.3 Permit required 105.1, 105.2 Roof access 1011.12 Seismic inspection and testing 1704.3.2, 1705.13.7 Smoke control system 909 Systems Chapter 28 Mechanically Laminated Decking 2304.9.3 Medical Care (see Institutional I-2) 407.1 Medical Gas Systems 427 Membrane Roof Coverings 1507.11, 1507.12, 1507.13 Membrane Structures 2702.2, 3102 Mercantile Occupancy (Group M) 309 Accessible Chapter 11B Alarm and detection 907.2.6.3.4

    Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Covered and open mall buildings 402 Hazardous material display and storage 414.2.5 Height 503, 504, 505, 508 Incidental uses 509

  • CFC § 1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Division 1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Division I|||||||||||||||||||||||| |1.1.1 –1.11.2.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.11]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.12]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |1.11.2.1.2 –1.11.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.08]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.13]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |1.11.2.3 –1.11.11|||||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.03]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.09.1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |1.12|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Division II|||||||||||||||||||||||| |101.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |101.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |101.3.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |101.3.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |101.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |102.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |102.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |102.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |104.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |104.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |104.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |104.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |104.8.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |105.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |105.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |105.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |105.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |105.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |105.10|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |106.1 – 106.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |106.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |106.10|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |107|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |109.1 – 109.1.2.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |109.3.7.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |109.3.7.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |110 – 111|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |113|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface 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. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
  • CFC § 503.2.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

    503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure for fire apparatus access roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

    503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices or markings that include the words “NO PARKING—FIRE LANE” shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. The means by which fire lanes are designated shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.

    503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances established in Sections 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 shall be maintained at all times.

    503.4.1 Traffic calming devices. Traffic calming devices shall be prohibited unless approved by the fire code official.

    503.5 Required gates or barricades. The fire code official is authorized to require the installation and maintenance of gates or other approved barricades across fire apparatus access roads, trails or other accessways, not including public streets, alleys or highways. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.

    503.5.1 Secured gates and barricades. Where required, gates and barricades shall be secured in an approved manner. Roads, trails and other accessways that have been closed and obstructed in the manner prescribed by Section 503.5 shall not be trespassed on or used unless authorized by the owner and the fire code official.

    Exception: The restriction on use shall not apply to public officers acting within the scope of duty.

    503.5.2 Fences and Gates. School grounds may be fenced and gates therein may be equipped with locks, provided that safe disper- sal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per occupant are located between the school and the fence. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from school buildings.

    Every public and private school shall conform with Section 32020 of the Education Code which states:

    The governing board of every public school district, and the governing authority of every private school, which main- tains any building used for the instruction or housing of school pupils on land entirely enclosed (except for building walls) by fences of walls, shall, through cooperation with the local law enforcement and fire-protection agencies having jurisdiction of the area, make provision for the erection of gates in such fences or walls. The gates shall be of sufficient size to permit the entrance of the ambulances, police equipment and firefighting apparatus used by the law

    5-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

Frequently asked questions

What is the absolute minimum width I must provide for a fire access road?

The baseline minimum unobstructed width is 20 feet per § 503.2.1, but Appendix D or local AHJ requirements (for example, 26 feet where a hydrant is located) may increase that requirement — always confirm with the local fire code official.

Does the code give a numeric turning radius for fire trucks?

No. § 503.2.4 delegates the required turning radius to the fire code official. Appendix D provides common turnaround figures (hammerhead, “Y”, cul‑de‑sac) as guidance.

Do shoulders or parked cars count toward the required 20‑ft width?

No — the code requires an unobstructed width. Shoulders and parked vehicles do not count; fire lanes and markings must be maintained to avoid obstructions per § 503.4.

How high does the vertical clearance need to be?

Minimum unobstructed vertical clearance is 13 feet 6 inches per § 503.2.1.

Are bridges subject to special rules?

Yes — bridges or elevated surfaces forming part of the access road must be designed to carry imposed fire apparatus loads and comply with AASHTO HB‑17 where referenced; post load limits when required by the fire code official per § 503.2.6.

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Where are fire apparatus access roads required and how far must they extend?

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California Fire Code