CFC · California Fire Code

Security gates, emergency opening methods and gate width requirements

Q: Who must approve a security gate across a fire apparatus access road?

The local fire code official must approve the installation and the approved means of emergency operation per § 503.6 and § D103.5 .

Q: What is the minimum clear opening for a single security gate on a fire access road?

A single gate must provide at least 20 feet of clear width per § D103.5 ; a divided roadway requires at least 12 feet per roadway lane ( § D103.5 ) .

Q: Do electric gate operators need to be listed?

Yes — electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325 and automatic gates must meet ASTM F2200 as required by § 503.6 and § D103.5 .

Q: Must gates be manually operable?

Appendix D requires gate construction that allows manual operation by one person , and components must be maintained in operative condition ( § D103.5 ) .

Q: Are the dimensions in Appendix D mandatory?

Appendix D provides minimum specifications and is advisory unless adopted by the jurisdiction ; however, § 503.6 (approval and emergency operation) is mandatory in the CFC and applies regardless of Appendix adoption — always verify local adoption and amendments ( Appendix D note ) .

Security gates across fire department access roads must be approved by the fire code official, include an approved emergency opening method, be kept operational, use UL 325‑listed electric operators (if electric), and meet minimum gate widths in Appendix D (single gate 20 ft; divided roadway 12 ft). Confirm Appendix D adoption and coordinate widths, signage, locking methods and emergency devices with your local fire code official.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Security gates across a fire apparatus access road must be approved by the fire code official and have an approved means of emergency operation; the gates and their emergency-opening systems must be maintained operational at all times (see § 503.6). Appendix D gives minimum gate widths and additional specifications for fire apparatus access roads — most important: a single gate must provide at least 20 feet clear width, and a divided roadway must provide at least 12 feet clear width per roadway (see § D103.5 and § D103.6). Electric gate operators, where provided, must be listed to UL 325 and automatic gates must meet ASTM F2200 (see § 503.6 and § D103.5) .

Security gates on fire-access roads are allowed only with approval, must be openable by the fire department in an emergency, and must meet the minimum gate widths in Appendix D (single gate = 20 ft; divided roadway = 12 ft) per the CFC.

Requirements in detail

Approval, emergency opening and listing

The installation of a security gate across a fire apparatus access road must be approved by the fire code official and must include an approved means of emergency operation; both gate and emergency operation must be maintained operational at all times (§ 503.6) .
Electric gate operators, if provided, must be listed in accordance with UL 325, and gates intended for automatic operation must conform to ASTM F2200 (§ 503.6; also noted in Appendix D § D103.5) .
Emergency opening devices for electric gates must be approved by the fire code official; methods of locking must be submitted for approval (§ D103.5) .

Gate types, construction, operation and maintenance

Acceptable gate types listed in Appendix D include horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift, or vertical pivot gates (§ D103.5) .
Construction must allow manual operation by one person and components must be maintained in operative condition and repaired or replaced when defective (§ D103.5) .
Electric gates must still provide emergency opening methods for fire department personnel; the emergency devices must be approved by the fire code official (§ D103.5) .

Widths, road dimensions and related minimums

Appendix D contains the specific minimum widths applicable to fire apparatus access roads and gates. Key numeric thresholds are summarized below.

Decision item	Required value(s)	Code Reference
Single security gate clear width	20 ft (6096 mm)	§ D103.5
Divided roadway gate clear width (per roadway)	12 ft (3658 mm)	§ D103.5
Fire apparatus access road min. width where hydrant present	26 ft (7925 mm) (exclusive of shoulders)	§ D103.1
Dead-end road widths (Table D103.4)	0–150 ft: 20 ft; 151–500 ft: 20 ft; 501–750 ft: 26 ft	Table D103.4 / § D103.4
Electric gate operator listing	UL 325 listing required	§ 503.6 and § D103.5
Fire lane sign size (when required)	12 in × 18 in minimum; red letters on white reflective background	§ D103.6

Notes:

Appendix D is guidance for minimum specifications for fire apparatus access roads and gates; Appendix text is not mandatory unless adopted by the enforcing jurisdiction — confirm local adoption and any local amendments (Appendix D note) .

Exceptions & special cases

Divided roadway: the gate-width requirement reduces to 12 feet per divided lane rather than 20 ft for a single gate — this is explicitly allowed by § D103.5 .
Appendix D is by its nature advisory unless adopted locally. Where Appendix D is not adopted as mandatory, the enforcing jurisdiction still enforces § 503.6 (approval and emergency operation requirement) and may impose other local width or signage requirements (§ 503.6 and Appendix D note) .
Gates serving means of egress or building exits have separate requirements (e.g., panic hardware, egress clear width) in the Building Code — those requirements are in Chapters governing means of egress and accessibility and must be checked separately when gates are part of an egress path (see related provisions) .

Common mistakes

Assuming any gate is acceptable without approval: the CFC requires fire code official approval for gates across fire apparatus roads (§ 503.6) .
Installing an electric operator that is not listed to UL 325 or failing to provide an approved emergency-opening method — the code requires UL 325 listing and an approved emergency device (§ 503.6, § D103.5) .
Using gate widths that meet private/security preferences but not the code minima — e.g., placing a single gate less than 20 ft clear width across a fire apparatus access road when not approved otherwise (§ D103.5) .
Overlooking maintenance and operability obligations: the gate and emergency opening method must be maintained operational at all times (§ 503.6 and § D103.5) .
Forgetting to submit methods of locking for approval when required by the authority having jurisdiction (§ D103.5) .

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A gated private development has a single security gate across its fire apparatus access road. The road is 300 ft long dead-end and includes a hydrant along the road.

Step 1 — Minimum road width: Because there is a hydrant on the fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width is 26 ft exclusive of shoulders per § D103.1 .

Step 2 — Dead-end turnaround: For a dead-end length of 151–500 ft, Appendix D requires 20 ft road width and a turnaround (120-ft hammerhead, 60-ft “Y”, or 96-ft cul-de-sac) per Table D103.4 / § D103.4 . Because a hydrant is present, follow the 26 ft hydrant minimum; coordinate with the fire code official on which width controls in this mixed-condition scenario (hydrant requirement typically governs).

Step 3 — Gate width: For a single gate, the gate clear width must be not less than 20 ft per § D103.5. However, because § D103.1 requires 26 ft where a hydrant is present, the gate and any pinch points should be sized so an engine can pass a 26 ft road width — discuss with the fire code official whether the gate opening must be the full 26 ft or if 20 ft opening with 3 ft shoulders each side is acceptable. In all cases, provide an approved emergency opening method and ensure any electric operator is UL 325 listed (§ D103.5, § 503.6) .

Result: Minimum clear gate opening = 20 ft (per D103.5), but the presence of a hydrant (26 ft min road width) requires coordination with the fire code official to ensure apparatus access is not obstructed; provide approved emergency opening, UL 325-listed operator (if electric), and maintain the system operational at all times (§ D103.5, § D103.1, § 503.6) .

Related provisions

§ 503.6 — Security gates: approval and emergency operation requirements (see text) .
§ D103.5 — Fire apparatus access road gates: gate widths, gate types, manual operation, locking methods, UL 325, ASTM F2200 requirements (Appendix D) .
§ D103.6 — Fire lane signs: sign dimensions and posting rules (Appendix D) .
§ D103.1 — Minimum road width where hydrant is present (26 ft) .
Table D103.4 / § D103.4 — Dead-end road width and turnaround requirements (20 ft / 26 ft thresholds) .
§ 504.1 — Required access to exterior openings for emergency access (maintain ready access) .
Building Code — § 1010.3.4 / 1010.4 and accessibility rules for security grilles and gates used in means of egress (when gates affect egress routes) — see CBC references for egress hardware and clear width requirements .
Appendix D adoption note — Appendix D is advisory unless adopted locally; check local jurisdiction adoption and amendments (Appendix D note) .

Code references

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

CFC § 6.1 High relevance — show source text
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.
8. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.
D103.6 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent “NO PARKING— FIRE LANE” signs complying with Figure D103.6. Signs shall have a minimum dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) wide by 18 inches (457 mm) high and have red letters on a white reflective background. Signs shall be posted on one or both sides of the fire apparatus road as required by Section D103.6.1 or D103.6.2.

FIGURE D103.6—FIRE LANE SIGNS

SIGN TYPE "A" SIGN TYPE "C" SIGN TYPE "D"

18 ″

12 ″ 12 ″ 12 ″

D103.6.1 Roads 20 to 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on both sides of fire apparatus access roads that are 20 to 26 feet wide (6096 to 7925 mm).

D103.6.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on one side of fire apparatus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7925 mm) and less than 32 feet wide (9754 mm).

SECTION D104—COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS

D104.1 Buildings exceeding three stories or 30 feet in height. Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) or three stories in height shall have not fewer than two means of fire apparatus access for each structure.

D104.2 Buildings exceeding 62,000 square feet in area. Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of more than 62,000 square feet (5760 m [2] ) shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads. Exception: Projects having a gross building area of up to 124,000 square feet (11 520 m [2] ) that have a single approved fire apparatus access road where all buildings are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems.

D104.3 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 lot or area to be served, measured in a straight line between

accesses.

SECTION D105—AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS
CFC § 1010.3.4 High relevance — show source text
1. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.
[BE] 1010.3.4 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

[BE] 1010.4 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

[BE] 1010.4.1 Stadiums. Panic hardware is not required on gates surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present, and where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed space. See Section 1028.5 for means of egress from safe dispersal areas.

[BE] 1010.5 Turnstiles and similar devices. Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress, except where permitted in accordance with Sections 1010.5.1, 1010.5.2 and 1010.5.3.

[BE] 1010.5.1 Capacity. Each turnstile or similar device shall be credited with a capacity based on not more than a 50-person occupant load where all of the following provisions are met:
1. Each device shall turn free in the direction of egress travel when primary power is lost and on the manual release by an employee in the area.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
1. Such devices are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity or width.
2. Each device is not more than 39 inches (991 mm) high.
3. Each device has not less than 16 [1] / 2 inches (419 mm) clear width at and below a height of 39 inches (991 mm) and not less than 22 inches (559 mm) clear width at heights above 39 inches (991 mm).
[BE] 1010.5.1.1 Clear width. Where located as part of an accessible route, turnstiles shall have not less than 36 inches (914 mm) clear width at and below a height of 34 inches (864 mm), not less than 32 inches (813 mm) clear width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) and shall consist of a mechanism other than a revolving device.
CFC § 1273.09 High 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 § 716.2.6.6 High relevance — show source text
The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides. 3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width. 4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device. 5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716. 6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply. 7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised. 8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.

1010.3.4 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

1010.4 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

1010.4.1 Stadiums. Panic hardware is not required on gates surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present, and where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed space. See Section 1028.5 for means of egress from safe dispersal areas.

1010.5 Turnstiles and similar devices. Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress, except where permitted in accordance with Sections 1010.5.1, 1010.5.2 and 1010.5.3.

1010.5.1 Capacity. Each turnstile or similar device shall be credited with a capacity based on not more than a 50-person occupant load where all of the following provisions are met:
1. Each device shall turn free in the direction of egress travel when primary power is lost and on the manual release by an employee in the area.
2. Such devices are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity or width.
3. Each device is not more than 39 inches (991 mm) high.
4. Each device has not less than 16 [1] / 2 inches (419 mm) clear width at and below a height of 39 inches (991 mm) and not less than 22 inches (559 mm) clear width at heights above 39 inches (991 mm).
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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:

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 § 1273.05 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 § 503.6 High relevance — show source text
FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

enforcement and fire-protection agencies. There shall be no less than one such access gate and there shall be as many such gates as needed to assure access to all major buildings and ground areas. If such gates are to be equipped with locks, the locking devices shall be designed to permit ready entrance by the use of the chain or bolt-cutting devices with which the local law enforcement and fire-protection agencies may be equipped.

503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. 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.

SECTION 504—ACCESS TO BUILDING OPENINGS AND ROOFS

504.1 Required access. Exterior doors and openings required by this code or the California Building Code shall be maintained with ready access for emergency access by the fire department. An approved access walkway leading from fire apparatus access roads to exterior openings shall be provided where required by the fire code official.

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

(b) Roofs. No person shall install or maintain any security barrier such as barbed wire fencing, razor wire fencing, chain link fencing or any other fencing material, cable, aerial, antenna or other obstruction on the roof of any commercial establishment in such a manner as to obstruct or render egress or access hazardous in the event of fire or other emergency.

Exception: Guy wire, rods and aerial antenna masts may be attached to a roof structure having a slope of less than 30 degrees provided there is full clearance of seven feet or more between the roof and said obstruction. Guy wire or rods required to support aerial or antenna masts may be attached to a roof structure a lateral distance from the mast not in excess of one-sixth the height of the mast.

504.2 Maintenance of exterior doors and openings. Exterior doors and their function shall not be eliminated without prior approval. Exterior doors that have been rendered nonfunctional and that retain a functional door exterior appearance shall have a sign affixed to the exterior side of the door with the words “THIS DOOR BLOCKED.” The sign shall consist of letters having a principal stroke of not less than [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) wide and not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high on a contrasting background. Required fire department access doors shall not be obstructed or eliminated. Exit and exit access doors shall comply with Chapter 10. Access doors for high-piled combustible storage shall comply with Section 3206.7.

504.3 Stairway access to roof. New buildings four or more stories above grade plane, except those with a roof slope greater than 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), shall be provided with a stairway to the roof. Stairway access to the roof shall be in accordance with Section 1011.12. Such stairway shall be marked at street and floor levels with a sign indicating that the stairway continues to the roof. Where the roof is a vegetative roof, includes a landscaped roof area, or is used or for other purposes, stairways shall be provided as required for such occupancy classification.
CFC § 1125A.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1981 mm) minimum above the finish floor or ground.

1125A.4 Free-standing signs. Wherever signs mounted on posts or pylons protrude from the posts or pylons and the bottom edge of the sign is less than 80 inches (2032 mm) above the finished floor or ground level, the edges of such signs shall be rounded or eased and the corners shall have a minimum radius of 0.125 inches. (See Section 1125A.2 for required headroom clearance).

SECTION 1126A—DOORS, GATES AND WINDOWS

1126A.1 Width and height of doors and gates. Doorways which provide access to common use areas or covered multifamily dwellings shall comply with the following: 1. Permit the installation of a door or gate not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in width, not less than 80 inches (2032 mm) in height, and provide a clear opening of not less than 32 inches (813 mm), measured with the door positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position.

2. Doors or gates shall be capable of opening at least 90 degrees.

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HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

3. A pair of doors or gates, manual or automatic, shall have at least one leaf which provides a clear width of not less than 32 inches (813 mm), measured with the door or gate positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position. 4. The width of any component in the egress system shall not be less than the minimum width required by Section 1005. 5. Revolving doors or gates shall not be used as required entrances for persons with disabilities, and shall not be part of an acces- sible route.

1126A.2 Level floor or landing. The floor or landing on each side of an exit door or gate shall be level. (See Chapter 10.)

1126A.2.1 Thresholds and changes in elevation. The floor or landing shall not be more than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) lower than the top of the threshold of the doorway. (See Figure 11A-8I.)

Changes in level between [1] / 4 inch (6.35 mm) and [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) shall be beveled with a slope no greater than 1 unit vertical in 2 units horizontal (50-percent slope). Changes in level greater than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) shall be accomplished by means of a ramp. (See Section 1122A.)

1126A.3 Maneuvering clearances.
CFC § 503.5.1 Medium relevance — show source text
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

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FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

enforcement and fire-protection agencies. There shall be no less than one such access gate and there shall be as many such gates as needed to assure access to all major buildings and ground areas. If such gates are to be equipped with locks, the locking devices shall be designed to permit ready entrance by the use of the chain or bolt-cutting devices with which the local law enforcement and fire-protection agencies may be equipped.

503.6 Security gates. The installation of security gates across a fire apparatus access road shall be approved by the fire code official. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means of emergency operation. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times. 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.

SECTION 504—ACCESS TO BUILDING OPENINGS AND ROOFS

504.1 Required access. Exterior doors and openings required by this code or the California Building Code shall be maintained with ready access for emergency access by the fire department. An approved access walkway leading from fire apparatus access roads to exterior openings shall be provided where required by the fire code official.

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

(b) Roofs. No person shall install or maintain any security barrier such as barbed wire fencing, razor wire fencing, chain link fencing or any other fencing material, cable, aerial, antenna or other obstruction on the roof of any commercial establishment in such a manner as to obstruct or render egress or access hazardous in the event of fire or other emergency.
CFC § 4.99 Medium relevance — show source text
Parcels zoned for less than one acre – 800 feet (262 m)

Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet (433 m)

Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet (866 m)

Parcels zoned for 20 acres or larger – 5,280 feet (1732 m) 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 403.1.5 for Dead-end Road turnaround requirements.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.08]

403.1.10 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-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.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.09]

403.2 Signing and building numbering.

403.2.1 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. [CCR, Title 14 §1274.00]

403.2.2 Road signs. (a) Newly constructed or approved Roads must be identified by a name or number through a consistent system that provides for sequenced or patterned numbering and/or nonduplicative naming within each Local Jurisdiction. This section does not require any entity to rename or renumber existing roads, nor shall a Road providing access only to a single commercial or industrial Occupancy require naming or numbering. (b) The size of letters, numbers and symbols for Road signs shall be a minimum four-inch letter height, half-inch stroke, reflector- ized, contrasting with the background color of the sign.

[CCR, Title 14 §1274.01]

_**403.2.3 Road sign installation, location, and visibility.

CFC § 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text

10|23/4| |F/C-6-RC-25|6″|6″ deep (4800 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ rein-
forcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
31/2″ pitch perpendicular with7/8″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|195
psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-6-RC-26|6″|6″ (4650 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 31/2″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|195
psf|2 hrs
23 min|||7|1, 2|21/4| |F/C-6-RC-27|6″|6″ deep (6050 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ rein-
forcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ reinforcement bars at 31/2″
pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″
span restrained.|195
psf|3 hrs
30 min|||7|1, 10|31/2| |F/C-6-RC-28|6″|6″ deep (5180 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ rein-
forcement bars at 8″ pitch with3/4″ cover;
1/4″ reinforcement bars at 51/2″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|150
psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4|

2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE RESOURCE A-93

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RESOURCE A—GUIDELINES ON FIRE RATINGS OF ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND ASSEMBLIES

TABLE 3.1—continued FLOOR/CEILING ASSEMBLIES—REINFORCED CONCRETE	Col2	Col3	Col4	Col5	Col6	Col7	Col8	Col9	Col10
ITEM CODE	ASSEMBLY THICKNESS	CONSTRUCTION DETAILS	PERFORMANCE	PERFORMANCE	REFERENCE NUMBER	REFERENCE NUMBER	REFERENCE NUMBER	NOTES	REC. HOURS
ITEM CODE	ASSEMBLY THICKNESS	CONSTRUCTION DETAILS	LOAD	TIME	PRE-BMS-92	BMS-92	POST-BMS-92	POST-BMS-92	POST-BMS-92
F/C-6-RC-29	6″	6″ thick (4180 psi) concrete deck; 4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.

CFC § 403.1.8 Medium relevance — show source text
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.

2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 4-5

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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.

(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 (262 m)

Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet (433 m)

Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet (866 m)

Parcels zoned for 20 acres or larger – 5,280 feet (1732 m) 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 403.1.5 for Dead-end Road turnaround requirements.

[CCR, Title 14 §1273.08]

403.1.10 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-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.

Frequently asked questions

Who must approve a security gate across a fire apparatus access road?

The local fire code official must approve the installation and the approved means of emergency operation per § 503.6 and § D103.5 .

What is the minimum clear opening for a single security gate on a fire access road?

A single gate must provide at least 20 feet of clear width per § D103.5; a divided roadway requires at least 12 feet per roadway lane (§ D103.5) .

Do electric gate operators need to be listed?

Yes — electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325 and automatic gates must meet ASTM F2200 as required by § 503.6 and § D103.5 .

Must gates be manually operable?

Appendix D requires gate construction that allows manual operation by one person, and components must be maintained in operative condition (§ D103.5) .

Are the dimensions in Appendix D mandatory?

Appendix D provides minimum specifications and is advisory unless adopted by the jurisdiction; however, § 503.6 (approval and emergency operation) is mandatory in the CFC and applies regardless of Appendix adoption — always verify local adoption and amendments (Appendix D note) .

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Related in the CFC

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

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

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

Fire apparatus access roads, dimensions, dead-ends, turnarounds & security gates

California Fire Code