CFC · California Fire Code

Hydrant spacing, unobstructed access, clear space and physical protection

If any part of a building is more than 400 feet from a hydrant measured along an approved exterior route, the CFC requires on‑site hydrants (600 feet allowed for certain sprinklered homes); always keep hydrants unobstructed, maintain a 3‑foot clear circle around each hydrant, and protect hydrants from vehicle impact with posts or approved barriers.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Fire Code requires on‑site fire hydrants when a building or portion of a facility is more than 400 feet from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road measured by an approved route (§ 507.5.1) . An exception extends that distance to 600 feet for Group R‑3 and Group U occupancies that are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system (§ 507.5.1 Exception) . The code also mandates unobstructed access to hydrants (§ 507.5.4), a 3‑foot (914 mm) clear space around the circumference of each hydrant (§ 507.5.5), and physical protection (guard posts or other approved means) where hydrants are subject to vehicle impact, to be installed in accordance with the referenced protection rules (§ 507.5.6) .

Keep hydrants available and reachable: if the building is more than 400 ft from a hydrant on an approved exterior route, provide on‑site hydrants; always keep a 3‑ft clear circle and unblocked access to every hydrant.

Requirements in detail

Where on‑site hydrants are required

  • Trigger: a building or portion of a facility more than 400 feet from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road, measured by an approved route around the exterior, requires on‑site hydrants and mains (§ 507.5.1) .
  • Sprinkler exception: for Group R‑3 and Group U occupancies protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system, the distance threshold is not more than 600 feet (§ 507.5.1 Exception) .
  • Standpipe connection: buildings with standpipes must have a hydrant within 100 feet of the fire department connection (FDC) (§ 507.5.1.1) — the fire code official may approve exceptions (§ 507.5.1.1 Exception) .

Hydrant spacing and number (Appendix guidance)

Section 507.5.1 references Appendix C for distribution and spacing methodologies. Appendix C / Table C102.1 provides decision‑relevant spacing based on required fire flow; jurisdictions use this to set hydrant distribution policies. Key entries from Table C102.1 are summarized below (useful when multiple hydrants are required) — see the code table for full ranges and notes.

Decision item Typical value(s) Code Reference
Trigger distance for on‑site hydrants 400 ft (122 m) from hydrant on fire apparatus access road § 507.5.1
Sprinkler exception distance (R‑3, U) 600 ft (183 m) when fully sprinklered § 507.5.1 Exception
Hydrant for standpipe/ proximity to FDC 100 ft (30 480 mm) to FDC § 507.5.1.1
Required clear space around hydrant 3 ft (914 mm) circumference clear § 507.5.5
Unobstructed access Access must be maintained at all times (no deterrence/hindrance) § 507.5.4
Physical protection where subject to vehicle impact Guard posts or approved means complying with Section 312 § 507.5.6
Hydrants / spacing by fire‑flow (examples from Table C102.1) e.g., 4,001–5,000 gpm → 5 hydrants, avg spacing 300 ft, max distance to frontage 180 ft Appendix C, Table C102.1 (C102.1 / Table C102.1)

Notes on Appendix C: Table C102.1 gives minimum number of hydrants, average spacing, and maximum distance from any point on street/road frontage to a hydrant for various required fire‑flow ranges; Appendix C is intended as the methodology jurisdictions may adopt in conjunction with § 507.5.1 .

Unobstructed access and clear space

  • Unobstructed access: Fire department access to hydrants and fire protection equipment must be maintained at all times and must not be deterred or hindered (§ 507.5.4) .
  • Clear space: Maintain a 3‑foot (914 mm) clear space around the circumference of the hydrant; encroachment by landscaping, signs, fences, parked vehicles, or storage within that circle conflicts with § 507.5.5 .

Physical protection (vehicle impact)

  • Where hydrants are in locations subject to vehicle impact, provide guard posts or other approved protective measures that comply with the referenced guard/post requirements (see § 507.5.6) .
  • The code ties the required protection to the dedicated protection section (Section 312 referenced by § 507.5.6); consult the AHJ or the code text for the specific guard post dimensions and installation criteria referenced there.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Group R‑3 and Group U with approved automatic sprinkler systems installed per the listed code sections are allowed the longer 600‑foot trigger for on‑site hydrants (§ 507.5.1 Exception) .
  • The standpipe proximity requirement (hydrant within 100 ft of the building’s FDC) may be exceeded only if the fire code official approves — see § 507.5.1.1 Exception .
  • Appendix C contains additional, non‑mandatory but commonly used guidance on number and spacing of hydrants by fire‑flow need; jurisdictions may adopt Appendix C or other approved methods for distribution (see Appendix C / Table C102.1) .
  • The fire code official is authorized to modify location, number, and distribution of hydrants based on site‑specific constraints and hazards (see Appendix guidance notes) .

Common mistakes

  • Parking vehicles, placing dumpsters, or building temporary structures within the 3‑ft clear space — violates § 507.5.5 and often leads to citations .
  • Measuring the 400‑ft distance “as the crow flies” instead of along an approved route around the exterior or along the fire apparatus access road — measurement must follow the approved route in § 507.5.1 .
  • Assuming the 400‑ft trigger is universal — R‑3 and U occupancies with full sprinkler protection get the 600‑ft allowance per the exception; verify occupancy and sprinkler status before applying the shorter threshold (§ 507.5.1 Exception) .
  • Forgetting to protect hydrants in vehicle‑exposed locations — if a hydrant is adjacent to a driveway or parking lane, you must evaluate § 507.5.6 (guard posts/approved protection) rather than treating the hydrant as unprotected .
  • Relying on an adjacent property’s hydrant without confirming an unobstructed fire apparatus access route and easements — Appendix C notes that existing hydrants on adjacent properties are not automatically considered available unless access is provided and kept clear .

Worked example — applying the rules with numbers

Scenario: A new commercial building will be constructed. The nearest public hydrant on the fire apparatus access road is 500 feet from the proposed building measured along the approved exterior route. The building is Group B (not R‑3 or U) and is not sprinklered throughout.

  1. § 507.5.1 says if any portion of the building is more than 400 ft from a hydrant on a fire apparatus access road (measured by approved route) on‑site hydrants and mains are required. Here the distance is 500 ft, so the project must provide on‑site hydrants and mains (§ 507.5.1) .
  2. If the building’s required fire flow (calculated by the approving authority) is 4,500 gpm, Appendix C Table C102.1 indicates 5 hydrants, average spacing 300 ft, and max distance from frontage 180 ft as the design basis — use Table C102.1 to determine exact distribution and spacing (C102.1 / Table C102.1) .
  3. At each proposed hydrant location, maintain a 3‑ft clear space around the circumference and ensure unobstructed access at all times (§ 507.5.5 and § 507.5.4) .
  4. If any hydrant will sit adjacent to a driveway or parking lane where vehicle impact is plausible, install guard posts or approved protection consistent with § 507.5.6 and the referenced protection standards (Section 312) — coordinate exact guard post spacing/height with the AHJ or the Section 312 text (§ 507.5.6) .

Related provisions

  • § 507.5.1 — Where required; distance trigger for on‑site hydrants and exceptions (standpipe, R‑3/U sprinkler exception) .
  • § 507.5.1.1 — Hydrant for standpipe systems; 100‑ft proximity to FDC (exception by approval) .
  • § 507.5.4 — Obstruction; unobstructed access to hydrants and fire protection equipment must be maintained .
  • § 507.5.5 — Clear space around hydrants; 3‑ft (914 mm) clear circumference .
  • § 507.5.6 — Physical protection where hydrants are subject to vehicle impact; guard posts or other approved means per Section 312 .
  • § C102.1 / Table C102.1 (Appendix C) — Guidance on minimum number and spacing of hydrants by required fire‑flow; used with § 507.5.1 for distribution decisions .
  • § 503 — Fire apparatus access roads (used in the measurement trigger in § 507.5.1) .
  • Section 312 (guard posts / physical protection) — referenced by § 507.5.6 for guard post compliance; consult that section and the AHJ for installation details .

Code references

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

  • CFC § 507.3 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    507.5.2 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire hydrant systems shall be subject to periodic tests as required by the fire code official. Fire hydrant systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be repaired where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing shall comply with approved standards. Records of tests and required maintenance shall be maintained.

    507.5.3 Private fire service mains and water tanks. Private fire service mains and water tanks shall be periodically inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.

    1. Private fire hydrants of all types: Inspection annually and after each operation; flow test and maintenance annually.
    2. Fire service main piping: Inspection of exposed, annually; flow test every 5 years.
    3. Fire service main piping strainers: Inspection and maintenance after each use.

    Records of inspections, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.

    507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.

    507.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved.

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    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    507.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts or other approved means shall comply with Section 312.

    SECTION 508—FIRE COMMAND CENTER

  • CFC § 507.5.2 High relevance — show source text

    507.5.2 Inspection, testing and maintenance. Fire hydrant systems shall be subject to periodic tests as required by the fire code official. Fire hydrant systems shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be repaired where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing shall comply with approved standards. Records of tests and required maintenance shall be maintained.

    507.5.3 Private fire service mains and water tanks. Private fire service mains and water tanks shall be periodically inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 5.

    1. Private fire hydrants of all types: Inspection annually and after each operation; flow test and maintenance annually.
    2. Fire service main piping: Inspection of exposed, annually; flow test every 5 years.
    3. Fire service main piping strainers: Inspection and maintenance after each use.

    Records of inspections, testing and maintenance shall be maintained.

    507.5.4 Obstruction. Unobstructed access to fire hydrants shall be maintained at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to fire protection equipment or fire hydrants.

    507.5.5 Clear space around hydrants. A 3-foot (914 mm) clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants, except as otherwise required or approved.

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    507.5.6 Physical protection. Where fire hydrants are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, guard posts or other approved means shall comply with Section 312.

    SECTION 508—FIRE COMMAND CENTER

    508.1 General. Where required by other sections of this code and in all buildings classified as high-rise buildings by the California Building Code and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet (23 m) above the lowest level of fire depart- ment vehicle access and in all F-1 and S-1 occupancies with a building footprint greater than 500,000 square feet (46 451 m [2] ), a fire command center for fire department operations shall be provided and shall comply with Sections 508.1.1 through 508.1.7.

    508.1.1 Location and access. The location and access to the fire command center shall be approved by the fire code official.

    508.1.2 Separation. The fire command center shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than a 2-hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assembly constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

    508.1.3 Size. The fire command center shall be not less than 0.015 percent of the total building area of the facility served or 200 square feet (19 m [2] ) in area, whichever is greater, with a minimum dimension of 0.7 times the square root of the room area or 10 feet (3048 mm), whichever is greater.

    Where a fire command center is required for Group F-1 and S-1 occupancies with a building footprint greater than 500,000 square feet (46 452 m [2] ), the fire command center shall have a minimum size of 96 square feet (9 m [2] ) with a minimum dimension of 8 feet (2438 mm) where approved by the fire code official.

  • CFC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    Reduce by 50 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    e. One hydrant for each 1,000 gallons per minute or fraction thereof.
    f. A 50-percent spacing increase shall be permitted where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
    903.3.1.1 of the_California Fire Code_.
    g. A 25-percent spacing increase shall be permitted where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
    903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3 of the_California Fire Code_ or Section P2904 of the_California Residential Code_.
    h. The fire code official is authorized to modify the location, number and distribution of fire hydrants based on site-specific constraints and hazards.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
    a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    b. Where streets are provided with median dividers that cannot be crossed by firefighters pulling hose lines, or where arterial streets are provided with four or more traffic lanes
    and have a traffic count of more than 30,000 vehicles per day, hydrant spacing shall average 500 feet on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis.
    c. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be provided at
    spacing not to exceed 1,000 feet to provide for transportation hazards.
    d. Reduce by 50 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    e. One hydrant for each 1,000 gallons per minute or fraction thereof.
    f. A 50-percent spacing increase shall be permitted where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
    903.3.1.1 of the_California Fire Code_.
    g. A 25-percent spacing increase shall be permitted where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
    903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3 of the_California Fire Code_ or Section P2904 of the_California Residential Code_.
    h. The fire code official is authorized to modify the location, number and distribution of fire hydrants based on site-specific constraints and hazards.|

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    APPENDIX C—FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION

    SECTION C103—FIRE HYDRANT SPACING

    C103.1 Hydrant spacing. Fire apparatus access roads and public streets providing required access to buildings in accordance with Section 503 shall be provided with one or more fire hydrants, as determined by Section C102.1. Where more than one fire hydrant is required, the distance between required fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Sections C103.2 and C103.3.

    C103.2 Average spacing. The average spacing between fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Table C102.1.

    Exception: The average spacing shall be permitted to be increased by 10 percent where existing fire hydrants provide all or a portion of the required number of fire hydrants.

    C103.3 Maximum spacing. The maximum spacing between fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Table C102.1.

  • CFC § 1207.1.5 High relevance — show source text

    A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS._
    3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a non-combustible eave, whichever is less.
    The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
    1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
    2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
    3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a non-combustible eave, whichever is less.
    The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
    1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
    2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
    3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a non-combustible eave, whichever is less.
    The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.|

    R330.6 Electrical installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741 or provided as part of the UL 9540 listing. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.

    R330.7 Fire detection. Rooms and areas within dwelling units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R310. A heat detector, listed and interconnected to the smoke alarms, shall be installed in locations within dwelling units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.

    [SFM] ESS installed in Group R-3 and townhomes shall comply with the following: 1. Rooms and areas within dwellings units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R314. 2. A listed heat alarm interconnected to the smoke alarms shall be installed in locations within dwelling units, sleeping units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.

    R330.8 Protection from impact. ESS installed in a location subject to vehicle damage in accordance with Section R330.8.1 or R330.8.2 shall be provided with impact protection in accordance with Section R328.8.3.

    R330.8.1 Garages. Where an ESS is installed in the normal driving path of vehicle travel within a garage, impact protection complying with Section R330.8.3 shall be provided. The normal driving path is a space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall to a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor.

  • CFC § 304.8 High relevance — show source text

    Reduce by 50 feet for dead-end streets or roads._
    e. One hydrant for each 1,000 gallons per minute or fraction thereof.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
    a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    b. Where streets are provided with median dividers which can be crossed by firefighters pulling hose lines, or where arterial streets are provided with four or more traffic lanes and
    have a traffic count of more than 30,000 vehicles per day, hydrant spacing shall average 500 feet on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis up to a fire-flow
    requirement of 7,000 gallons per minute and 400 feet for higher fire-flow requirements.
    c Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be provided at spacing
    not to exceed 1,000 feet to provide for transportation hazards.
    d. Reduce by 50 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    e. One hydrant for each 1,000 gallons per minute or fraction thereof.|

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    CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX D – FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    (Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)

    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 T-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt Entire Chapter
    Adopt Entire Chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    [California Code of Regulations,
    Title 19, Division 1]
    Chapter / Section
    • 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.
  • CFC § 907.2.13.2 High relevance — show source text

    907.2.13.2 Fire Department Connections 903.3.7, 905.2, 912 Fire Department Master Key Defined 202 Fire Department Notification

    [see Notification (of fire department)] Fire Department Operations 104.11, 401.4 Fire Detector, Automatic Defined 202 Fire Door Assembly Defined 202 Fire Drill (see Emergency Evacuation Drill) Fire Equipment, Tampering with 901.8 Fire Escape Stairways 1104.16 Fire Exit Hardware 1010.2.8

    Defined 202 Fire Extinguishers, Portable 906 Asphalt kettles 303.5 Aviation facilities 2005 Buildings under construction or demolition 3316 Commercial cooking equipment 906.4 Dry cleaning plants 2108.4 Flammable finishes 2404.6.1, 2405.4.2, 2406.4.2 Lumber yards 2804.2, 2808.8 Fire Flow for Buildings 507, 3307, Appendix B Fire Hydrant Distribution Appendix C Location Appendix C Obstruction 507.5.4

    Permit 105.5.17, 105.5.43, 105.6.19 Standpipe system 507.5.1.1 Tampering 901.8 Testing 507.5.2, 901.5 Fire Investigations 104.10

    Fire Partition

    Defined 202

    Maintenance 01.2

    Fire Point

    Defined 202 Fire Protection Equipment 509 Fire Protection Rating Defined 202 Fire Protection System Chapter 9 Hybrid fire-extinguishing system 202, 904.12

    Noncompliant conditions Appendix I Nonrequired 901.4.2 Out of service 901.7 Owner’s responsibility during construction or demolition 3303

    Permit 105.6.1, 105.6.20, 105.6.24, 105.6.5, 105.6.7, 105.6.8 Fire Pump Rooms 901.4.7, 913.2.1, 1008.3.3 Fire Pumps 105.6.8, 913 Fire Records 104.7.3

    Fire Resistance

    Defined 202 Fire Safety during Construction and Demolition Chapter 33 Access for firefighting 3307 Automatic sprinkler systems 3306.5 Cooking 3305.7 Daily fire safety inspections 3303.3 Explosive materials 3309.3 Fire reporting 3303.6 Fire watch 3303.5 Flammable gas 3309.2 Ignition source control 3305 Portable fire extinguishers 3305.10.2, 3306.6 Safeguarding roofing operations 3305.10 Site safety plan 3303 Standpipes 3307.5 Temporary heating 3305.1 Fire Safety Functions 907.3 Defined 202 Fire Safety Plans 404, 3404.5 Lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries

    403.10.6 Fire Separation Distance 202 Fire Service Elevator Keys (see Keys, Fire Service Elevator) Fire Service Features Chapter 5 Fire Wall

    Defined 202

    Maintenance 701.2

  • CFC § 2506.2 High relevance — show source text

    Vertical and horizontal assemblies

    2504

    Wallboard Table 2506.2, 2508.2, 2508.2.1, 2508.4, 2510.5.2.1 Water-resistant backing board 2506.2, 2509.2

    Habitable Space 1208 Handrails 1014 Alternating tread devices 1011.14 Assembly aisles 1030.16 Construction 1014.5, 1014.6, 1014.7 Extensions 1014.7 Glazing 2407 Graspability 1014.4 Guards 1015.3 Height 1014.2 Loads 1607.9

    Location 1014.1, 1014.8, 1014.9,

    1014.10

    Ramps 1012.8 Stairs 1011.11

    Hardboard 1403.3.2, 2303.1.7 Hardware (see Doors and Locks and Latching) Hardwood

    Fastening 2304.10 Quality 2303.3 Veneer 1403.3.2 Hazardous Materials 307, 414, 415 Compliance with California Fire Code 307.2

    Control areas 414.2

    Explosion control 414.5.1, Table 414.5.1, 415.11.6.5, 426.1.4 Mercantile occupancies 309.2 Reporting 414.1.3 Sprinkler protection Table 414.2.5.1, Table 414.2.5.2, 415.4, 415.11.12,

    903.2.5

    Ventilation 414.3, 415.9.1.7, 415.11.1.6, 415.11.1.8.1, 415.11.3.2, 415.11.6.8, 415.11.7.4, 415.11.8, 415.11.11, 1202.6 Weather protection 414.6.1 Hazardous Occupancy (Group H), (see Hazardous Materials) 307, 414, 415 Alarms and detection 415.11.2, 415.11.4, 415.11.6.9, 415.11.8, 415.3, 415.5, 907.2.5, 908.1, 908.2 Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Dispersing 414.5, 414.6, 415.6 Gas detection systems 415.11.7 Group provisions H-1 (detonation) 307.3, 415.6.2, 415.7, 415.6.4.1, 415.7.1 H-2 (deflagration) 307.4, 415.8, 415.9 H-3 (physical hazard) 415.10, 307.5, 415.8 H-4 (health hazard) 307.6, 415.10 H-5 (semiconductor) 307.7, 415.11 Height 415.7, 415.8.1, 415.9.1.1, 426.1.1, 503, 504, 505, 506 Incidental uses 509

  • CFC § 507.5. High relevance — show source text

    Appendix BB Fire-flow Requirements for Buildings

    The procedures determining fire-flow requirements for any school buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed for which review and approval is required under Subdivision(a) of Section 17280 of the Government Code shall be in accordance with this appendix as amended by the state fire marshal.

    Appendix C Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution

    Appendix C focuses on the location and spacing of fire hydrants, which is important to the success of firefighting operations. This particular appendix gives one methodology based on the required fire flow that fire departments can work with to set a policy for hydrant distribution around new buildings and facilities in conjunction with Section 507.5.

    Appendix CC Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution

    Fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with this appendix for the protection of any school buildings, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed for which review and approval are required under Subdivision(a) of Section 17280 of the Government Code.

    Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads

    Appendix D contains more detailed elements for use with the basic access requirements found in Section 503. 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.

    Appendix E Hazard Categories

    Appendix E contains guidance in the classifying of hazardous materials so that proposed designs can be evaluated intelligently and accurately. The descriptive materials and explanations of hazardous materials and how to report and evaluate them on a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are intended to be instructional as well as informative.

    Appendix F Hazard Ranking

    The information in Appendix F is intended to be a companion to the specific requirements of Chapters 51 through 67, which regulate the storage, handling and use of all hazardous materials classified as either physical or health hazards. This appendix lists the various hazardous materials categories that are defined in this code, along with the NFPA 704 hazard ranking for each.

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    Appendix G Cryogenic Fluids—Weight and Volume Equivalents

    Appendix G gives the fire code official and design professional a ready reference tool for the conversion of the liquid weight and volume of cryogenic fluid to their corresponding volume of gas and vice versa and is a companion to the provisions of Chapter 55 of this code. Note that this appendix is for information purposes and is not intended for adoption.

    Appendix H Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) Instructions

    Appendix H is intended to assist businesses in establishing a Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) based on the classification and quantities of materials that would be found on-site, in storage or in use. The sample forms and available Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide the basis for the evaluations. It is also a companion to CFC Sections 407.5 and 407.6, which provide the requirement that the HMIS and HMMP be submitted when required by the fire code official.

    Appendix I Fire Protection Systems—Noncompliant Conditions

  • CFC § 507.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    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 C101—GENERAL

    C101.1 Scope. In addition to the requirements of Section 507.5.1, fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with this appendix for the protection of buildings, or portions of buildings, hereafter constructed or moved into the jurisdiction.

    Exception: [SFM] Group B, S-2 and U occupancies having a floor area not exceeding 1,000 square feet, primarily constructed of noncombustible exterior walls with wood or steel roof framing, having a Class A roof assembly, with uses limited to the following or similar uses:

    1. California State Parks buildings of an accessory nature (restrooms). 2. Safety roadside rest areas, (SRRA), public restrooms. 3. Truck inspection facilities, (TIF), California Highway Patrol (CHP) office space and vehicle inspection bays. 4. Sand/salt storage buildings, storage of sand and salt.

    SECTION C102—NUMBER OF FIRE HYDRANTS

    C102.1 Minimum number of fire hydrants for a building. The number of fire hydrants available to a building shall be not less than the minimum specified in Table C102.1.

    TABLE C102.1—REQUIRED NUMBER AND SPACING OF FIRE HYDRANTSh Col2 Col3 Col4
    FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENT
    (gpm)    		 MINIMUM NUMBER OF
    HYDRANTS    		 AVERAGE SPACING
    BETWEEN HYDRANTSa, b, c, f, g
    (feet)    		 MAXIMUM DISTANCE FROM ANY
    POINT ON STREET OR ROAD
    FRONTAGE TO A HYDRANTd, f, g
    1,750 or less 1 500 250
    1,751–2,250 2 450 225
    2,251–2,750 3 450 225
    2,751–3,250 3 400 225
    3,251–4,000 4 350 210
    4,001–5,000 5 300 180
    5,001–5,500 6 300 180
    5,501–6,000 6 250 150
    6,001–7,000 7 250 150
    7,001 or more 8 or moree 200 120
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
    a. Reduce by 100 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    b. Where streets are provided with median dividers that cannot be crossed by firefighters pulling hose lines, or where arterial streets are provided with four or more traffic lanes
    and have a traffic count of more than 30,000 vehicles per day, hydrant spacing shall average 500 feet on each side of the street and be arranged on an alternating basis.
    c. Where new water mains are extended along streets where hydrants are not needed for protection of structures or similar fire problems, fire hydrants shall be provided at
    spacing not to exceed 1,000 feet to provide for transportation hazards.
    d. Reduce by 50 feet for dead-end streets or roads.
    e.
  • CFC § 25.4 High relevance — show source text

    rack|Transverse
    flue space|Vertically aligned|Not required|Yes|Not required| |Multiple-row rack|Longitudinal flue space|Longitudinal flue space|Not required|Not required|Not required| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
    b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
    b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
    b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
    b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
    b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
    b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|

    3208.3.1 Flue space protection. Flue spaces required by Table 3208.3 above the first tier of storage in single-, double- or multiple-row rack storage installations shall, where required by the fire code official, be equipped with approved protection devices. Such devices shall not be removed or modified.

    3208.4 Column protection. Steel building columns shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 13.

    3208.5 Extra-high-rack storage systems. Approval of the fire code official shall be obtained prior to installing extra-high-rack combustible storage.

    3208.5.1 Fire protection. Buildings with extra-high-rack combustible storage shall be protected with a specially engineered automatic sprinkler system. Extra-high-rack combustible storage shall be provided with additional special fire protection, such as separation from other buildings and additional built-in fire protection features and fire department access, where required by the fire code official.

    SECTION 3209—AUTOMATED STORAGE

    3209.1 General. Automated storage shall be in accordance with this section.

    3209.2 Automatic sprinklers. Where automatic sprinklers are required by Table 3206.2, the building shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. **3209.3 Carousel storage.

  • CFC § 17742.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION CC104—CONSIDERATION OF EXISTING FIRE HYDRANTS

    CC104.1 Existing fire hydrants on public streets are allowed to be considered as available. Existing fire hydrants on adjacent properties shall not be considered available unless fire apparatus access roads extend between properties and easements are established to prevent obstruction of such roads.

    SECTION CC105—DISTRIBUTION OF FIRE HYDRANTS

    CC105.1 The average spacing between fire hydrants shall not exceed that listed in Table CC105.1.

    Exception: A deficiency of up to 10 percent shall not be allowed when existing fire hydrants provide all, or a portion, of the required fire hydrant service.

    Regardless of the average spacing, fire hydrants shall be located such that all points on streets and access roads adjacent to a build- ing are within the distances listed in Table CC105.1.

    CC105.2 When public or private water mains are not available to supply fire flow [not within 1,000 feet (304 800 mm) of the proposed building], the following alternatives shall be used: 1. Building(s) shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system Exception: Portable (relocatable) buildings, as defined in California Education Code Section 17742.5(e), which requires that portable buildings be designed and constructed to be relocatable over public streets, shall be designed and constructed for relocation without the separation of the roof or floor from the building and when measured at the most exterior walls, shall have a floor area not in excess of 2,000 square feet (186 m [2] ). Such portable buildings shall be separated from other structures in groupings not to exceed 9,100 square feet (845 m [2] ) in building area (pursuant to Table 503, California Building Code, for Type V- B buildings). Further area increases shall be as approved by the local fire authority having jurisdiction and the state fire marshal.

    The water for sprinklers may be supplied by the domestic system, a pressure tank, a gravity tank or other means in accordance with NPFA 13. Water tanks shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 22. (See the California Building Code, Chapter 9.) 2. When the adequate fire flow is not available and the water for sprinklers is provided from a source other than a public water supply, the amount of water to supply the system shall be calculated using the area/density method or the room design method as delineated in NFPA 13. The calculated duration of water flow to sprinklers shall not be less than 15 minutes to 10 heads.

    3. The sprinkler system shall have a water flow alarm monitored by an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or a local alarm which will give audible and visual signals at a constant attended location. 4. When this alternative is utilized and the calculated water duration to a sprinkler is less than NFPA 13 recommendations, the area increases and fire resistive substitutions allowed in Chapter 5 of the California Building Code shall not be permitted.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX CC-3

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

    APPENDIX CC—FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND DISTRIBUTION

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

    301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

    302 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations . . . . . .3-3

    CHAPTER 4 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA

    REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

    401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

    402 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

    403 Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

    404 Water Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7

    CHAPTER 5 SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

    REGULATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

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

    502 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

    503 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material. . . . . .5-3

    504 Ignition-Resistant Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

    505 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

    506 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

    507 Replacement or Repair of Roof Coverings. . . . . . . . .5-9

    CHAPTER 6 FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS. . . . . . .6-3

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

    602 Fire Protection Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    603 Vegetation Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

    604 Maintenance of Defensible Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

Frequently asked questions

Can a property owner rely on a neighbor’s hydrant to meet § 507.5.1?

Only if there is an approved, unobstructed fire apparatus access route between properties and any necessary easements are established; Appendix CC/Appendix C guidance disallows assuming adjacent hydrants without such access arrangements .

What exactly counts as an “approved route” when measuring the 400‑ft?

The code measures distance “by an approved route around the exterior of the facility or building” — confirm the specific route with the fire code official (AHJ) because the measurement is not simply a straight‑line distance (§ 507.5.1) .

How big is the clear space around a hydrant?

A 3‑foot (914 mm) clear space must be maintained around the circumference of every hydrant (§ 507.5.5) .

If a hydrant is next to a driveway, do I always need posts?

If the hydrant is subject to vehicle impact, § 507.5.6 requires guard posts or other approved means of protection; the posts/means must comply with the protection rules referenced in the code (Section 312) — confirm specifics with the AHJ (§ 507.5.6) .

Does Appendix C have to be used to determine how many hydrants are required?

Appendix C provides a commonly used methodology tied to required fire flow and spacing (Table C102.1), but jurisdictions may adopt Appendix C or an approved alternative method; § 507.5.1 refers to Appendix C as an accepted method for distribution .

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