CFC · California Fire Code

When key boxes are required; elevator key box rules and mounting

If the fire department says a key box is required because access is locked or quick entry is needed, the building must install an approved UL‑1037 key box containing the required keys. Elevator boxes for nonstandard keys must be compatible with the local rapid‑entry system, labeled “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS,” mounted at the lobby nearest lowest fire‑department access and at **5 ft 6 in** above the floor on the **right side**, may be shared only when banks are ≤ **30 ft** apart, and the building operator must immediately supply replacement keys after any rekeying (see **§ 506.1**, **§ 506.1.2**, **§ 506.2**).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Where access is restricted or immediate access is necessary for life‑saving or firefighting, the fire code official may require a key box to be installed in an approved location. This key box must be an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037 and shall contain the keys necessary to gain access. These authority and basic requirements are in § 506.1.

For elevators that use nonstandardized fire service elevator keys, there are specific additional rules for compatibility, labeling, mounting location and height, content limits, and when a single key box may serve multiple elevator banks in § 506.1.2.

The building operator must maintain keys in the key box and immediately notify the fire code official and supply the new key when a lock is changed or rekeyed; these maintenance duties are in § 506.2.

The single most important rule: when the fire code official determines access is restricted or immediate access is needed, an approved UL‑1037 key box holding the required keys must be installed where directed by the fire code official. § 506.1

Requirements in detail

When a key box can be required

  • The fire code official is authorized to require a key box where access to or within a structure or area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life‑saving or firefighting. § 506.1

Equipment/specification and listing

  • The key box must be an approved type and listed in accordance with UL 1037. § 506.1

Elevator-specific (nonstandardized fire service elevator keys)

The code gives a detailed checklist for key boxes used for nonstandard elevator keys in § 506.1.2.

  • Must be compatible with the jurisdiction’s rapid entry key box system and approved by the fire code official.
  • Front cover must be permanently labeled “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.”
  • Mounted at each elevator bank in the lobby nearest the lowest level of fire department access.
  • Mounted 5 feet 6 inches (1676 mm) above the finished floor to the right side of the elevator bank.
  • Contents limited to fire service elevator keys (other elevator access tools or info allowed only if authorized by the fire code official).
  • For buildings with two or more elevator banks, a single key box is permitted when elevator banks are separated by not more than 30 feet (9144 mm); otherwise, additional key boxes are required. An exception allows a single key box adjacent to a fire command center or placement in another approved box per § 506.1.2.

Maintenance and rekeying

  • The building operator must immediately notify the fire code official and provide the new key where a lock is changed or rekeyed; the key to such lock must be secured in the key box. § 506.2

Quick reference table (decision‑relevant values)

Decision / item Value / requirement Code Reference
When a key box may be required Where access is restricted or immediate access is necessary for life‑saving or firefighting § 506.1
Accepted listing Key box listed to UL 1037 § 506.1
Labeling for elevator key box Front cover: “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.” § 506.1.2 (2)
Mounting location for elevator key box At each elevator bank at the lobby nearest the lowest level of fire department access § 506.1.2 (3)
Mounting height & side 5 feet 6 inches (1676 mm) above finished floor to the right side of the elevator bank § 506.1.2 (4)
Allowed contents Limited to fire service elevator keys (others only if authorized) § 506.1.2 (5)
Single box for multiple banks Single box permitted if banks separated by ≤ 30 feet (9144 mm); otherwise each bank needs its own box § 506.1.2 (6)
Rekey/lock change procedure Owner/operator must immediately notify the fire code official and provide the new key for the box § 506.2

Exceptions & special cases

  • Exception in § 506.1.2: a single elevator key box may be located adjacent to a fire command center, or the nonstandard fire service elevator key may be placed in a key box used for other purposes and located per § 506.1.
  • The Building Code’s elevator key provisions prefer standardized fire service elevator keys; if standardized keys are used, those keys are subject to the rules in § 604.6.2 (standardized keys, access restrictions, distribution, and owner responsibilities). The code still permits nonstandard keys to be secured in a key box per § 506.1.2 where the exception applies. § 604.6.2 / exception to § 604.6.2.
  • Local jurisdictions may require compatibility with their existing rapid entry/rapid access systems — the key box must be compatible and approved by the fire code official. § 506.1.2 (1)

If you need a local‑jurisdiction interpretation (e.g., which rapid entry system is used, or whether a particular elevator key is “nonstandardized”), consult the local fire code official — the CFC delegates the decision to that official. § 506.1

Common mistakes

  • Mounting height and side errors — mounting must be 5 ft 6 in (1676 mm) to the right side of the elevator bank; installing at the left side or at a different height will fail inspection. § 506.1.2 (4)
  • Wrong mounting location — box must be at the lobby nearest the lowest level of fire department access, not necessarily every elevator floor. § 506.1.2 (3)
  • Incorrect labeling — the elevator key box front cover must be permanently labeled “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.” § 506.1.2 (2)
  • Putting unrelated items into an elevator key box — contents are limited to fire service elevator keys unless the fire code official authorizes additional tools or info. § 506.1.2 (5)
  • Failing to notify after rekeying — the operator must immediately notify the fire code official and provide the new key; leaving the box with old/invalid keys is a violation. § 506.2
  • Using a key box not listed to UL 1037 or not approved by the fire code official. § 506.1

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A 12‑story office tower has two elevator banks in the main lobby. Elevator Bank A and Elevator Bank B are separated by 22 feet (6706 mm) measured horizontally between the banks. The building has nonstandard fire service elevator keys.

Application:

  • Because nonstandard keys are used, the owner places those keys in a dedicated elevator key box that is compatible with the local rapid entry system and approved by the fire code official. § 506.1.2 (1)
  • The key box is installed in the lobby nearest the lowest level of fire department access, mounted 5 ft 6 in (1676 mm) above finished floor on the right side of the elevator bank as required. § 506.1.2 (3)–(4)
  • Because the two elevator banks are separated by 22 ft (which is ≤ 30 ft (9144 mm)), a single elevator key box serving both banks is permitted. § 506.1.2 (6)
  • The front cover is permanently labeled “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.” and the box contains only the fire service elevator keys unless the fire code official authorized additional items. § 506.1.2 (2), (5)
  • If the elevator lock is rekeyed, the building operator immediately notifies the fire code official and provides the new key to be secured in the box. § 506.2

If instead the banks were separated by 35 ft (10,668 mm), the owner would need to provide an additional key box for the bank separated by more than 30 ft (9144 mm). § 506.1.2 (6)

Related provisions

  • § 604.6 — Elevator keys; requires keys and specifies location and type of fire service elevator keys (standardized vs nonstandard).
  • § 604.6.2 — Standardized fire service elevator keys (requirements, restricted access).
  • § 3206.8 — Where fire department access doors are required, a key box must be installed in accordance with § 506.1 and contain keys/devices to allow entry.

(If you need copies of the specific code paragraphs quoted above for plan submittal or inspection, your local fire department or building department can supply jurisdiction‑approved wording or confirm any local amendments. The primary CFC text for the items summarized here is in § 506.1, § 506.1.2, and § 506.2.)

Code references

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

  • CFC § 506.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 506—KEY BOXES

    506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or firefighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037, and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the fire code official.

    506.1.1 Locks. An approved lock shall be installed on gates or similar barriers where required by the fire code official.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 5-5

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

    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    506.1.2 Key boxes for nonstandardized fire service elevator keys. Key boxes provided for nonstandardized fire service elevator keys shall comply with Section 506.1 and all of the following:

    1. The key box shall be compatible with an existing rapid entry key box system in use in the jurisdiction and approved by the fire code official.

    2. The front cover shall be permanently labeled with the words “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.”

    3. The key box shall be mounted at each elevator bank at the lobby nearest to the lowest level of fire department access.

    4. The key box shall be mounted 5 feet 6 inches (1676 mm) above the finished floor to the right side of the elevator bank.

    5. Contents of the key box are limited to fire service elevator keys. Additional elevator access tools, keys and information pertinent to emergency planning or elevator access shall be permitted where authorized by the fire code official.

    6. In buildings with two or more elevator banks, a single key box shall be permitted to be used where such elevator banks are separated by not more than 30 feet (9144 mm). Additional key boxes shall be provided for each individual elevator or elevator bank separated by more than 30 feet (9144 mm).

    Exception: A single key box shall be permitted to be located adjacent to a fire command center or the nonstandard fire service elevator key shall be permitted to be secured in a key box used for other purposes and located in accordance with Section 506.1.

    506.2 Key box maintenance. The operator of the building shall immediately notify the fire code official and provide the new key where a lock is changed or rekeyed. The key to such lock shall be secured in the key box.

    SECTION 507—FIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES

    507.1 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for fire protection shall be provided to premises on which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction.

    507.2 Type of water supply. A water supply shall consist of reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains or other fixed systems capable of providing the required fire flow.

    507.2.1 Private fire service mains. Private fire service mains and appurtenances shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 24 as amended in Chapter 80.

    507.2.2 Water tanks. Water tanks for private fire protection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 22.

    507.3 Fire flow. Fire-flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an approved method or Appendix B.

  • CFC § 504.4 High relevance — show source text

    504.4 Roof access. 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 7 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.

    SECTION 505—PREMISES IDENTIFICATION

    505.1 Address identification. New and existing buildings shall be provided with approved address identification. The address identification shall be legible and placed in a position that is visible from the street or road fronting the property. Address identification characters shall contrast with their background. Address numbers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers shall not be spelled out. Each character shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) high with a minimum stroke width of [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm). Where required by the fire code official, address identification shall be provided in additional approved locations to facilitate emergency response. Where access is by means of a private road and the building cannot be viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign or means shall be used to identify the structure. Address identification shall be maintained.

    505.2 Street or road signs. Streets and roads shall be identified with approved signs. Temporary signs shall be installed at each street intersection when construction of new roadways allows passage by vehicles. Signs shall be of an approved size, weather resistant and be maintained until replaced by permanent signs.

    SECTION 506—KEY BOXES

    506.1 Where required. Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or firefighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be of an approved type listed in accordance with UL 1037, and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the fire code official.

    506.1.1 Locks. An approved lock shall be installed on gates or similar barriers where required by the fire code official.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 5-5

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

    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    506.1.2 Key boxes for nonstandardized fire service elevator keys. Key boxes provided for nonstandardized fire service elevator keys shall comply with Section 506.1 and all of the following:

    1. The key box shall be compatible with an existing rapid entry key box system in use in the jurisdiction and approved by the fire code official.

    2. The front cover shall be permanently labeled with the words “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.”

    3. The key box shall be mounted at each elevator bank at the lobby nearest to the lowest level of fire department access.

    4. The key box shall be mounted 5 feet 6 inches (1676 mm) above the finished floor to the right side of the elevator bank.

    5. Contents of the key box are limited to fire service elevator keys.

  • CFC § 1020.2 High relevance — show source text

    Corridors 1020.2

    Doors 1010.2.13, 1010.2.11, 1010.2.9, 1010.2.7, 1010.2.12.1 Lighting 1008.2, 1008.2.4 Stairway, exterior exit 1027.2 Stairways, exit access 1019 Travel distance 1006.3, 1017.2 Sprinkler protection 903.2.6, 903.3.2 Integrated Testing (Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems) 202, 901.6.2 Interconnection Fire-extinguishing systems with cooking appliances 904.14.2 Smoke alarms 907.2.11.5, 1103.8.2 Standpipe risers 905.4.2 Interior Finish Chapter 8 Defined 202

    Interior Floor-Wall Base 804.4

    Defined 202 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish 803, 804 Defined 202 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish and Trim 803, 804 Intumescent Fire-Resistant Materials 708 Investigations, Fire 104.10 Irritant

    Defined 202

    Gases 5004.7.1, 5307.1

    Iso-Butane (see Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

    Jurisdiction

    Defined 202

    Kettles [see Organic Coating or Asphalt (Tar) Kettles] Key Boxes 202, 506 Maintenance 506.2

    Nonstandard fire service elevator keys 506.1.2 Required 506.1 Keys, Fire Service Elevator 604.6

    Laboratory Suite 202 Ladders 1104.16.6, 5704.2.8.15 Boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms

    1006.2.2.1

    Construction 1011.15, 1011.16, 1014.2, 1014.7, 1015.3, 1015.4 Emergency escape window wells 1031.5.2

    Group I-3 1011.15, 1011.16 Refrigeration machinery rooms 1006.2.2.2

    Ship’s ladders 1011.15 Landing Ramps 1012.6, 1012.10 Stairs and stairways 1010.1.4, 1010.1.5, 1011.6, 1025.2.4 Landscaped Roofs (see also Rooftop Gardens) 317, 504.3, 905.3.7 Dead foliage 317.2.2 Irrigation 317.2.1 Maintenance equipment 317.4 Maintenance plan 317.3 Laundry Carts 318.1 Lead-Acid Battery System, Stationary (see Battery Systems, Stationary Storage) Lead-Acid Battery System, Valve-Regulated (see Battery Systems, Stationary Storage) Leaks Compressed gases 5303.12 Cryogenic fluids 5503.9 Explosive materials 5604.10 Flammable and combustible

  • CFC § 4-3 High relevance — show source text

    402 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

    403 Emergency Preparedness Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 404 Fire Safety, Evacuation and Lockdown Plans . . . . . . 4-10 405 Emergency Evacuation Drills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13 406 Employee Training and Response Procedures. . . . . 4-15

    407 Hazard Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15

    CHAPTER 5 FIRE SERVICE FEATURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

    501 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

    502 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

    503 Fire Apparatus Access Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 504 Access to Building Openings and Roofs . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 505 Premises Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

    506 Key Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 507 Fire Protection Water Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 508 Fire Command Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

    509 Fire Protection and Utility Equipment Identification and Access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

    510 Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

    CHAPTER 6 BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . .6-3

    601 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    602 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

  • CFC § 105.5.27 Medium relevance — show source text

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

    INDEX

    Fuel piping 3004 Interlocks 3005

    Location 3003 Operation and maintenance 3007 Permit 105.5.27, 105.6.15 Inert Gas 2501.1, 2906.4, Table 5003.1.1(1), Table 5003.1.1(3), 5305.8, 5703.6.3.1,

    5705.2.2

    Defined 202 Inflatable Amusement Device 202, 3106 Inhabited Building Defined 202 Initiating Device Defined 202

    Identification 907.6.3 Insecticidal Fogging (see Fumigation and Insecticidal Fogging) Inspection 104.7.2, 105.2.2, 109, 109.2.1,

    901.6 Emergency and standby power system 1203.4 Fire department connections 912.7 Fire hydrant 507.5.2 Fireworks display 5608.5.3, 5608.9 Hose 3509.7

    Magazines 5604.9 Masonry chimneys 605.2.1.1 Tents 3103.6 Institutional Occupancies (Group I) 203 Alarm and detection 907.2.10, 907.2.11.2, 907.2.6.1, 907.5.2.3.2 Means of egress Aisles 1018.5

    Corridors 1020.2

    Doors 1010.2.13, 1010.2.11, 1010.2.9, 1010.2.7, 1010.2.12.1 Lighting 1008.2, 1008.2.4 Stairway, exterior exit 1027.2 Stairways, exit access 1019 Travel distance 1006.3, 1017.2 Sprinkler protection 903.2.6, 903.3.2 Integrated Testing (Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems) 202, 901.6.2 Interconnection Fire-extinguishing systems with cooking appliances 904.14.2 Smoke alarms 907.2.11.5, 1103.8.2 Standpipe risers 905.4.2 Interior Finish Chapter 8 Defined 202

    Interior Floor-Wall Base 804.4

    Defined 202 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish 803, 804 Defined 202 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish and Trim 803, 804 Intumescent Fire-Resistant Materials 708 Investigations, Fire 104.10 Irritant

    Defined 202

    Gases 5004.7.1, 5307.1

    Iso-Butane (see Liquefied Petroleum Gas)

    Jurisdiction

    Defined 202

    Kettles [see Organic Coating or Asphalt (Tar) Kettles] Key Boxes 202, 506 Maintenance 506.2

    Nonstandard fire service elevator keys 506.1.2 Required 506.1 Keys, Fire Service Elevator 604.6

  • CFC § 5-3 Medium relevance — show source text

    503 Fire Apparatus Access Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 504 Access to Building Openings and Roofs . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 505 Premises Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

    506 Key Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 507 Fire Protection Water Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 508 Fire Command Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

    509 Fire Protection and Utility Equipment Identification and Access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

    510 Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

    CHAPTER 6 BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . .6-3

    601 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    602 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    603 Electrical Equipment, Wiring and Hazards . . . . . . . . . 6-3 604 Elevator Operation, Maintenance and Fire Service Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5 605 Fuel-Fired Appliances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6 606 Commercial Cooking Equipment and Systems . . . . . 6-9 607 Commercial Cooking Oil Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10 608 Mechanical Refrigeration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-10 609 Hyperbaric Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13 610 Clothes Dryer Exhaust Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

    CHAPTER 7 FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION

    FEATURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

    701 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3

  • CFC § 506.1. Medium relevance — show source text
    1. In buildings with two or more elevator banks, a single key box shall be permitted to be used where such elevator banks are separated by not more than 30 feet (9144 mm). Additional key boxes shall be provided for each individual elevator or elevator bank separated by more than 30 feet (9144 mm).

    Exception: A single key box shall be permitted to be located adjacent to a fire command center or the nonstandard fire service elevator key shall be permitted to be secured in a key box used for other purposes and located in accordance with Section 506.1.

    506.2 Key box maintenance. The operator of the building shall immediately notify the fire code official and provide the new key where a lock is changed or rekeyed. The key to such lock shall be secured in the key box.

    SECTION 507—FIRE PROTECTION WATER SUPPLIES

    507.1 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for fire protection shall be provided to premises on which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction.

    507.2 Type of water supply. A water supply shall consist of reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains or other fixed systems capable of providing the required fire flow.

    507.2.1 Private fire service mains. Private fire service mains and appurtenances shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 24 as amended in Chapter 80.

    507.2.2 Water tanks. Water tanks for private fire protection shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 22.

    507.3 Fire flow. Fire-flow requirements for buildings or portions of buildings and facilities shall be determined by an approved method or Appendix B.

    507.4 Water supply test. The fire code official shall be notified prior to the water supply test. Water supply tests shall be witnessed by the fire code official or approved documentation of the test shall be provided to the fire code official prior to final approval of the water supply system.

    507.5 Fire hydrant systems. Fire hydrant systems shall comply with Sections 507.5.1 through 507.5.6 and Appendix C or by an approved method.

    507.5.1 Where required. Where a portion of the facility or building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction is more than 400 feet (122 m) from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road, as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building, on-site fire hydrants and mains shall be provided where required by the fire code official.

    Exception: For Group R-3 and Group U occupancies, equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, the distance requirement shall be not more than 600 feet (183 m).

    507.5.1.1 Hydrant for standpipe systems. Buildings equipped with a standpipe system installed in accordance with Section 905 shall have a fire hydrant within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the fire department connections.

    Exception: The distance shall be permitted to exceed 100 feet (30 480 mm) where approved by the fire code official.

  • CFC § 604.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    604.5.2 Occupant evacuation elevators and lobbies. Where occupant evacuation elevators are provided in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code, occupant evacuation elevator fire protection and safety features shall be maintained and lobbies required by Section 3008 of the California Building Code shall be maintained free of storage and furniture.

    604.5.3 Storage within elevator lobbies. Where hoistway opening protection is required by Section 3006.2 of the California Building Code, elevator lobbies shall be maintained free of storage.

    604.5.4 Water protection of hoistway enclosures. Methods to prevent water from infiltrating into a hoistway enclosure required by Sections 3007.3 and 3008.3 of the California Building Code shall be maintained.

    604.6 Elevator keys. All elevators shall be provided with elevator car door and firefighter service keys in accordance with Sections 604.6.1 through 604.6.2.4.

    604.6.1 Elevator key location. Keys for the elevator car doors and firefighter service keys shall be kept in an approved location for immediate use by the fire department.

    604.6.2 Standardized fire service elevator keys. Buildings with elevators equipped with Phase I emergency recall, Phase II emergency in-car operation, or a fire service access elevator shall be equipped to operate with a standardized fire service elevator key approved by the fire code official or a standardized key in accordance with ASME A17.1/CSA B44.

    Exception: The owner shall be permitted to place the building’s nonstandardized fire service elevator keys in a key box installed in accordance with Section 506.1.2.

    604.6.2.1 Requirements for standardized fire service elevator keys. Standardized fire service elevator keys shall comply with all of the following:

    1. All fire service elevator keys within the jurisdiction shall be uniform and approved in accordance with Section 604.6.2. Keys shall be cut to a uniform key code.
    2. Fire service elevator keys shall be of a patent-protected design to prevent unauthorized duplication.
    3. Fire service elevator keys shall be factory restricted by the manufacturer to prevent the unauthorized distribution of key blanks. Uncut key blanks shall not be permitted to leave the factory.
    4. Fire service elevator keys subject to these rules shall be engraved with the words “DO NOT DUPLICATE.”

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 6-5

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

    BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

    604.6.2.2 Access to standardized fire service keys. Access to standardized fire service elevator keys shall be restricted to the following:

    1. Elevator owners or their authorized agents.

    2. Elevator contractors.

    3. Elevator inspectors of the jurisdiction.

    4. Fire code officials of the jurisdiction.

    5. The fire department and other emergency response agencies designated by the fire code official.

    604.6.2.3 Duplication or distribution of keys. A person shall not duplicate a standardized fire service elevator key or issue, give, or sell a duplicated key unless in accordance with this code.

    604.6.2.4 Responsibility to provide keys. The building owner shall provide up to three standardized fire service elevator keys where required by the fire code official, upon installation of a standardized fire service key switch or switches in the building.

  • CFC § 3206.7.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    3206.7.2 Where located. Where exterior walls surrounding high-piled storage areas face fire apparatus access roads, such walls shall be provided with fire department access doors.

    3206.7.3 Access to doors. Fire department access doors shall be able to be accessed without the use of a ladder.

    3206.7.4 Marking on fire department access doors. Fire department access doors shall be labeled on the exterior side with the following sign or other approved sign:

    FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS DOOR

    DO NOT BLOCK

    The lettering shall be in a contrasting color to the background. Letters shall have a minimum height of 2 inches (51 mm) with a minimum stroke of [3] / 8 inch (10 mm).

    3206.7.5 Number of doors required. The required fire department access doors shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent fire department access doors does not exceed 125 feet (38 100 mm) measured center to center.

    Exception: The linear distance between adjacent access doors shall not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm) in existing buildings where change in occupancy is not proposed.

    3206.7.6 Door size and type. Fire department access doors shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width and 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) in height. Roll-up doors shall not be considered fire department access doors unless approved.

    3206.7.7 Locking devices. Locking devices on fire department access doors shall be approved.

    3206.7.8 Key box. Where fire department access doors are required, a key box shall be installed in accordance with Section 506.1. The key box shall contain keys or devices to allow for entry through the fire department access doors.

    3206.8 Smoke and heat removal. Where smoke and heat removal is required by Table 3206.2 it shall be provided in accordance with Section 910.

    3206.9 Fire department hose connections. Where exit passageways are required by the California Building Code for egress, a Class I standpipe system shall be provided in accordance with Section 905.

    3206.10 Aisles. Aisles providing access to exits and fire department access doors shall be provided in high-piled storage areas exceeding 500 square feet (46 m [2] ), in accordance with Sections 3206.10.1 through 3206.10.3. Aisles separating storage piles or racks shall comply with NFPA 13. Aisles shall comply with Chapter 10.

    Exception: Where aisles are precluded by rack storage systems, alternate methods of access and protection are allowed where approved.

    3206.10.1 Width. Aisle width shall be in accordance with Sections 3206.10.1.1 and 3206.10.1.2.

    Exceptions:

    1. Aisles crossing rack structures or storage piles, that are used only for employee access, shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide.

    32-16 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE

    1. Aisles separating shelves classified as shelf storage shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) wide.
  • CFC § 105.5.11 Medium relevance — show source text

    Permit 105.5.11

    Requirements 5503 Underground storage tanks 5806.4.5 Cryogenic Vessel Defined 202

    Current Taps 603.5.2 Custodial Care (Occupancy Group I) [see Institutional (Group I), Day Care and Residential (Group R)] 202, 203 Cutting and Welding (see Welding and Other Hot Work) Cylinder Defined 202

    Damper Defined 202 Danger, Imminent 115.2 Day Box (Magazine, Type 3) 202 Defined 202

    Day Care (Group I-4) Table 1004.5,

    1006.2.2.4

    Dead End 1020.5, 1021.1 Decorations 807

    Exit obstruction 1032.6

    Decorative Materials 807

    Defined 202 Decorative Vegetation Artificial 807.4

    Natural 06

    Defend-In-Place 202, 1020.3 Defueling Aircraft 2006.5 Hydrogen fuel tanks 2309.6 Delayed Egress Locks 1010.2.12.1, 1032.2.1 Delivered Audio Quality (DAQ) 202 Deluge System 202, 903.4.1, 2805.2 Demolition of Buildings Fire Safety Chapter 33

    INDEX-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    INDEX

    Electrostatic Apparatus 2407 Electrostatic Fluidized Bed 202

    Elevator Group 202 Emergency voice/alarm communication system in 907.5.2.2 Elevator Hoistways 704.1, 1103.4 Pressurization 909.21

    Water protection 604.5.4 Elevator Keys, Fire Service (see Keys, Fire Service Elevator) Elevator Keys, Nonstandardized Fire Service Key boxes for 506.1.2 Elevator Recall/Emergency Operation 604 Emergency Alarm System 908, 5004.9, 5005.4.4

    Defined 202 Emergency Breakaway Devices 2306.7.5.1, 2307.6.3 Emergency Control Station 2703.1 Defined 202 Emergency Escape and Rescue Opening 202, 1031 Maintenance 1032.7 Emergency Evacuation Drill 405 Defined 202 Frequency 405.3, Table 405.3 Emergency Lighting Equipment Inspection and testing 1032.10 Emergency Planning and Preparedness Chapter 4 Emergency Power Systems 202, 1203 Emergency Relief Venting 2306.6.2.5, 5704.2.7.4 Emergency Repairs 105.1.4 Emergency Responder Enhancement Communications Coverage System 202, 510 Active RF-emitting device 202, 510.4.2.1, 510.4.2.4, 510.5.2.1 Existing buildings 1103.2 High-rise buildings 914.3.6 Passive RF-emitting device 202 Permits 105.6.

  • CFC § 604.6.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    604.6.2.1 Requirements for standardized fire service elevator keys. Standardized fire service elevator keys shall comply with all of the following:

    1. All fire service elevator keys within the jurisdiction shall be uniform and approved in accordance with Section 604.6.2. Keys shall be cut to a uniform key code.
    2. Fire service elevator keys shall be of a patent-protected design to prevent unauthorized duplication.
    3. Fire service elevator keys shall be factory restricted by the manufacturer to prevent the unauthorized distribution of key blanks. Uncut key blanks shall not be permitted to leave the factory.
    4. Fire service elevator keys subject to these rules shall be engraved with the words “DO NOT DUPLICATE.”

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 6-5

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

    BUILDING SERVICES AND SYSTEMS

    604.6.2.2 Access to standardized fire service keys. Access to standardized fire service elevator keys shall be restricted to the following:

    1. Elevator owners or their authorized agents.

    2. Elevator contractors.

    3. Elevator inspectors of the jurisdiction.

    4. Fire code officials of the jurisdiction.

    5. The fire department and other emergency response agencies designated by the fire code official.

    604.6.2.3 Duplication or distribution of keys. A person shall not duplicate a standardized fire service elevator key or issue, give, or sell a duplicated key unless in accordance with this code.

    604.6.2.4 Responsibility to provide keys. The building owner shall provide up to three standardized fire service elevator keys where required by the fire code official, upon installation of a standardized fire service key switch or switches in the building.

    604.6.3 Shunt trip. Where elevator hoistways or elevator machine rooms containing elevator control equipment are protected with automatic sprinklers, a means installed in accordance with NFPA 72, Section 21.4, Elevator Shutdown, shall be provided to automati- cally disconnect the main line power supply to the affected elevator prior to the application of water. This means shall not be self- resetting. The activation of sprinklers outside the hoistway or machine room shall not disconnect the main line power supply.

    604.6.4 Emergency hoistway venting. Elevator hoistways containing the driving machine shall be provided with a means for vent- ing smoke and hot gases to the outer air in case of fire.

    604.6.4.1 Location of vents. Vents shall be located at the top of the hoistway and shall open either directly to the outer air or through noncombustible ducts to the outer air.

    604.6.4.2 Area of vents. Except as provided for in Section 3003.1.4.4 of the California Building Code, the area of the vents shall be not less than 3½ percent of the area of the hoistway nor less than 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) for each elevator car.

  • CFC § 604.3.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    604.3.4 Temperature and humidity control. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the machine room , machine space, control room and control space ventilation or air conditioning shall be connected to the standby power source.

    604.3.5 Emergency hoistway venting. Where standby power is connected to elevators, the emergency hoistway ventilation system, if required, shall be connected to the standby power source.

    [BE] 604.4 Emergency signs. An approved pictorial sign of a standardized design shall be posted adjacent to each elevator call station on all floors instructing occupants to use the exit stairways and not to use the elevators in case of fire. Where elevators are not a component of the accessible means of egress, the sign shall read: “IN CASE OF FIRE, ELEVATORS ARE OUT OF SERVICE. USE EXIT.”

    Exception: The emergency sign shall not be required for elevators that are used for occupant self-evacuation in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code .

    604.5 Maintenance of elevators. Elevator features and lobbies required by Section 3006 of the California Building Code shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Sections 604.5.1 through 604.5.4.

    604.5.1 Fire service access elevators and lobbies. Where fire service access elevators are required by Section 3007 of the Califor- nia Building Code, fire service access elevator fire protection and safety features shall be maintained and lobbies required by Section 3007 of the California Building Code shall be maintained free of storage and furniture.

    604.5.2 Occupant evacuation elevators and lobbies. Where occupant evacuation elevators are provided in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code, occupant evacuation elevator fire protection and safety features shall be maintained and lobbies required by Section 3008 of the California Building Code shall be maintained free of storage and furniture.

    604.5.3 Storage within elevator lobbies. Where hoistway opening protection is required by Section 3006.2 of the California Building Code, elevator lobbies shall be maintained free of storage.

    604.5.4 Water protection of hoistway enclosures. Methods to prevent water from infiltrating into a hoistway enclosure required by Sections 3007.3 and 3008.3 of the California Building Code shall be maintained.

    604.6 Elevator keys. All elevators shall be provided with elevator car door and firefighter service keys in accordance with Sections 604.6.1 through 604.6.2.4.

    604.6.1 Elevator key location. Keys for the elevator car doors and firefighter service keys shall be kept in an approved location for immediate use by the fire department.

    604.6.2 Standardized fire service elevator keys. Buildings with elevators equipped with Phase I emergency recall, Phase II emergency in-car operation, or a fire service access elevator shall be equipped to operate with a standardized fire service elevator key approved by the fire code official or a standardized key in accordance with ASME A17.1/CSA B44.

    Exception: The owner shall be permitted to place the building’s nonstandardized fire service elevator keys in a key box installed in accordance with Section 506.1.2.

Frequently asked questions

When does the fire code official actually require a key box?

The fire code official may require a key box when access is restricted by secured openings or when immediate access is necessary for life‑saving or firefighting; this authority is stated in § 506.1.

How high must an elevator key box be mounted?

An elevator key box for nonstandardized fire service elevator keys must be mounted 5 feet 6 inches (1676 mm) above the finished floor to the right side of the elevator bank. § 506.1.2 (4)

Can one key box serve multiple elevator banks?

Yes—one key box may serve multiple elevator banks only if those banks are separated by not more than 30 feet (9144 mm); otherwise each bank or individual elevator requires its own box. § 506.1.2 (6)

What label is required on an elevator key box?

The front cover must be permanently labeled “FIRE DEPARTMENT USE ONLY—ELEVATOR KEYS.” § 506.1.2 (2)

What must I do if we rekey a lock that had its key in the box?

You must immediately notify the fire code official and provide the new key to be placed in the key box. § 506.2

Are non‑elevator items allowed in an elevator key box?

Contents are limited to fire service elevator keys; additional items are allowed only if the fire code official authorizes them. § 506.1.2 (5)

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