CFC · California Fire Code

When is an approved water supply and fire flow required?

If you're building or moving a structure into a California jurisdiction, the California Fire Code requires an approved water supply that can deliver the required fire flow. The type of supply (mains, tanks, reservoirs) is specified in **§ 507.2**, and the fire‑flow amount is determined by an approved method or **Appendix B** per **§ 507.3**; consult Appendix B tables or the local fire code official to get the exact gallons‑per‑minute needed.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow is required for premises where facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction — see § 507.1. The type of acceptable supply (reservoirs, tanks, mains, etc.) is listed in § 507.2 and the method for determining required fire flow is by an approved method or Appendix B under § 507.3. The code therefore sets the trigger (new construction or relocation), the acceptable supply types, and the means to compute required flow. § 507.1 § 507.2 § 507.3

The single most important rule: if you are building, adding to, or moving a building into the jurisdiction, an approved water supply able to deliver the required fire flow must be provided before occupancy or use. § 507.1

Requirements in detail

Trigger: when the requirement applies

  • Applies whenever facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction — § 507.1.

What counts as an approved water supply

  • A water supply may be one or more of: reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains, or other fixed systems capable of providing the required fire flow — § 507.2.
  • Private fire service mains and appurtenances must be installed per NFPA 24 as amended — § 507.2.1.
  • Water tanks for private fire protection must comply with NFPA 22 — § 507.2.2.

How required fire flow is determined

  • Required fire flow for buildings or portions of buildings is determined by an approved method or by using Appendix B (Fire‑flow Requirements for Buildings) — § 507.3.
  • Appendix B defines fire flow and lays out the calculation area and tables to translate building size and construction type into a flow and duration. Key definitions and calculation rules are in Appendix B (see § B102.1, § B104.1) and modifications are authorized in § B103.1–B103.3.

Decision-relevant table

Decision factor Key value / trigger Code Reference
When a supply is required New construction, or building moved into/within jurisdiction § 507.1
Acceptable supply types Reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains, other fixed systems § 507.2
Private mains / tanks standards Private mains — NFPA 24; Tanks — NFPA 22 § 507.2.1, § 507.2.2
How to compute fire flow Approved method or Appendix B (tables & procedure) § 507.3; Appendix B (B101–B105)
Fire‑flow definition Flow measured at 20 psi residual pressure (definition in Appendix B) § B102.1
Authority to adjust Fire code official may reduce or increase fire‑flow requirements per local conditions § B103.1–B103.2

Exceptions & special cases

  • The code explicitly allows the fire code official to reduce fire‑flow requirements for isolated buildings or groups of buildings in rural areas or small communities where full fire flow is impractical — § B103.1.
  • Conversely, the fire code official may increase fire‑flow requirements (not to exceed twice the standard requirement) where conditions indicate susceptibility to conflagration — § B103.2.
  • Appendix B is a tool to determine fire flow; § 507.3 permits either an approved engineering method or Appendix B. If a jurisdiction has adopted a different approved method, that method controls subject to local adoption. § 507.3
  • Private water systems intended to supply fire protection may have additional design/installation standards (NFPA 24 and NFPA 22) per § 507.2.1 and § 507.2.2.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any domestic water connection satisfies the code: the supply must be an approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow — trigger and capacity are code requirements (§ 507.1, § 507.3).
  • Forgetting that the method of determining required fire flow must be an approved method or Appendix B — jurisdictions sometimes adopt variations, so confirm the locally adopted method (§ 507.3).
  • Overlooking the fire code official’s authority to change requirements — reductions/increases are allowed under Appendix B and must be coordinated with the authority having jurisdiction (§ B103.1–B103.2).
  • Confusing temporary construction water rules (found in building code chapters) with the permanent water‑supply trigger in § 507.1 — construction provisions exist elsewhere; check related sections when planning a construction schedule. (See Related provisions below.)

Worked example — how to apply the rule (process)

Scenario: A developer plans a new single‑family dwelling with a total floor area of 3,000 ft².

Step 1 — Confirm the trigger: this is a new building constructed within the jurisdiction, so § 507.1 applies (an approved water supply capable of supplying required fire flow must be provided). § 507.1

Step 2 — Determine the fire‑flow calculation area: Appendix B requires using the total floor area of all levels within the exterior walls as the fire‑flow calculation area (unless special exceptions apply) — § B104.1. For this example, calculation area = 3,000 ft².

Step 3 — Determine required fire flow: use an approved method or the Appendix B tables that map construction type and floor area to a required flow and duration (Table references are in Appendix B; see § B105.1 for dwelling guidance). § 507.3 and Appendix B.

Important note: The numeric table values from Appendix B (e.g., the gallons‑per‑minute required for a given area and construction type) were not fully extracted in the provided code snippets. To obtain the exact GPM requirement for this 3,000 ft² dwelling, consult Appendix B Table B105.1(1) or submit the project data to the local fire code official for an approved method determination.

Related provisions

  • § 507.4 — Water supply test (notification and witnessing of water supply tests).
  • § 507.5 — Fire hydrant systems and where hydrants are required (coverage and spacing).
  • Appendix B — Fire‑flow requirements for buildings (definitions, calculation area, tables, modifications) — § B101 through § B105.
  • NFPA references for private systems: § 507.2.1 (NFPA 24) and § 507.2.2 (NFPA 22).

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
    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 § 1274.04 High relevance — show source text

    or otherwise posted to provide for unobstructed visibility from that_ intersection.

    (f) In all cases, the address shall be posted at the beginning of construction and shall be maintained thereafter.

    [CCR, Title 14 §1274.04]

    SECTION 404—WATER SUPPLY

    404.1 General. An approved water source shall have an adequate water supply for the use of the fire protection service to protect buildings and structures from exterior fire sources or to suppress structure fires within the wildland-urban interface area of the jurisdiction in accordance with this section.

    404.2 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for structural fire protection and wildland fire exposure shall be provided to the premises on which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code.

    404.3 Draft sites. Approved draft sites shall be provided at natural water sources intended for use as fire protection for compliance with this code. The design, construction, location, access and access maintenance of draft sites shall be approved by the code official.

    404.3.1 Access. The draft site shall have emergency vehicle access from an access road in accordance with Section 403.

    404.3.2 Pumper access points. The pumper access point shall be either an emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road or an approved driveway not longer than 150 feet (45 720 mm). Pumper access points and access driveways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with all codes and ordinances enforced by this jurisdiction. Pumper access points shall not require the pumper apparatus to obstruct a road or driveway.

    404.4 Hydrants. Hydrants shall be designed and constructed in accordance with nationally recognized standards. The location and access shall be approved by the code official. The number and spacing of fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Appendix C or CC of the California Fire Code, as applicable.

    404.5 Adequate water supply. Fire-flow requirements shall be determined in accordance with Appendix B or BB of the California Fire Code, as applicable.

    404.6 Reserved.

    404.7 Obstructions. Access to water sources required by this code shall be unobstructed at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to water source equipment, fire protection equipment or hydrants.

    404.8 Identification. Water sources, draft sites, hydrants and fire protection equipment and hydrants shall be clearly identified in a manner approved by the code official to identify location and to prevent obstruction by parking and other obstructions. Each fire hydrant and access to a water supply shall be identified in accordance with one of the following: 1. Where located along a driveway, a reflectorized blue marker with a minimum dimension of 3 inches (73 mm) shall be located on the driveway address sign and mounted on a fire-retardant post. 2. Where located along an access road: 2.2. A reflectorized blue marker with a minimum dimension of 3 inches (73 mm) shall be mounted on a fire-retardant post. The signpost shall be within 3 feet (914 mm) of said fire hydrant with the sign not less than 3 feet (914 mm) nor greater than 5 feet (1524 mm) above ground, in a horizontal position and visible from the driveway. _2.3.

  • CFC § 3311.3 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 3311.3 Detailed requirements. Standpipes shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9.

    Exception: Standpipes shall be either temporary or permanent in nature, and with or without a water supply, provided that such standpipes conform to the requirements of Section 905 as to capacity, outlets and materials.

    SECTION 3312—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM

    [F] 3312.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved, except as provided in Section 111.3.

    [F] 3312.2 Operation of valves. Operation of sprinkler control valves shall be permitted only by properly authorized personnel and shall be accompanied by notification of duly designated parties. When the sprinkler protection is being regularly turned off and on to facilitate connection of newly completed segments, the sprinkler control valves shall be checked at the end of each work period to ascertain that protection is in service.

    SECTION 3313—WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION

    [F] 3313.1 Where required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible building materials arrive on the site, on commencement of vertical combustible construction, and on installation of a standpipe system in buildings under construction, in accordance with Sections 3313.2 through 3313.5.

    Exception: The fire code official is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.

    [F] 3313.2 Combustible building materials. When combustible building materials of the building under construction are delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used to provide this fire flow supply shall be within 500 feet (152 m) of the combustible building materials, as measured along an approved fire apparatus access lane. Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 500 feet (152 m) of all combustible building materials, additional fire hydrants shall be required to provide coverage in accordance with this section.

    [F] 3313.3 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 3313.3.1 through 3313.3.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.

    [F] 3313.3.1 Fire separation up to 30 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the

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    water supply shall provide either a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or the entire fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

  • 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.

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    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 § 1274.02 High relevance — show source text

    [CCR, Title 14 §1274.02]

    403.2.4 Addresses for Buildings. (a) All Buildings shall be issued an address by the Local Jurisdiction which conforms to that jurisdiction's overall address system. Utility and miscellaneous Group U Buildings are not required to have a separate address; however, each Residential Unit within a Building shall be separately identified. (b) The size of letters, numbers and symbols for addresses shall conform to the standards in the California Fire Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9. (c) Addresses for residential Buildings shall be reflectorized.

    [CCR, Title 14 §1274.03]

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    WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

    403.2.5 Address installation, location and visibility. (a) All buildings shall have a permanently posted address which shall be plainly legible and visible from the Road fronting the property. (b) Where access is by means of a private Road and the address identification cannot be viewed from the public way, an unob- structed sign or other means shall be used so that the address is visible from the public way. (c) Address signs along one-way Roads shall be visible from both directions. (d) Where multiple addresses are required at a single driveway, they shall be mounted on a single sign or post. (e) Where a Road provides access solely to a single commercial or industrial business, the address sign shall be placed at the near- est Road intersection providing access to that site, or otherwise posted to provide for unobstructed visibility from that intersection.

    (f) In all cases, the address shall be posted at the beginning of construction and shall be maintained thereafter.

    [CCR, Title 14 §1274.04]

    SECTION 404—WATER SUPPLY

    404.1 General. An approved water source shall have an adequate water supply for the use of the fire protection service to protect buildings and structures from exterior fire sources or to suppress structure fires within the wildland-urban interface area of the jurisdiction in accordance with this section.

    404.2 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for structural fire protection and wildland fire exposure shall be provided to the premises on which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code.

    404.3 Draft sites. Approved draft sites shall be provided at natural water sources intended for use as fire protection for compliance with this code. The design, construction, location, access and access maintenance of draft sites shall be approved by the code official.

    404.3.1 Access. The draft site shall have emergency vehicle access from an access road in accordance with Section 403.

    404.3.2 Pumper access points. The pumper access point shall be either an emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road or an approved driveway not longer than 150 feet (45 720 mm). Pumper access points and access driveways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with all codes and ordinances enforced by this jurisdiction. Pumper access points shall not require the pumper apparatus to obstruct a road or driveway.

  • 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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    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 § 1512.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1512—WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION

    [F] 1512.1 When required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible building material arrives on the site, on commencement of vertical combustible construction, and on installation of a standpipe system in buildings under construction, in accordance with Sections 1512.1 through 1512.5.

    Exception: The fire code official is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.

    [F] 1512.2 Combustible building materials. When combustible building materials of the building under construction are delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used to provide this fire flow supply shall be within 500 feet (152 m) of the combustible building materials as measured along an approved fire apparatus access lane. Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 500 feet (152 m) of all combustible building materials, additional fire hydrants shall be required to provide coverage in accordance with this section.

    [F] 1512.3 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 1512.3.1 through 1512.3.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.

    [F] 1512.3.1 Fire separation up to 30 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the water supply shall provide either a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or the entire fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

    [F] 1512.3.2 Fire separation of 30 feet up to 60 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of 30 feet (9144 mm) up to 60 feet (18 288 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be constructed upon, the water supply shall provide a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or 50 percent of the fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

    [F] 1512.3.3 Fire separation of 60 feet or greater. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation of 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater from a property lot line, a water supply of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided.

    [F] 1512.4 Vertical construction, Types I and II construction. If combustible construction materials are delivered to the construction site, water supply in accordance with Section 1509.2 shall be provided. Additional water supply for fire flow is not required prior to commencing vertical construction of Type I and II buildings.

  • CFC § 3307.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Approved temporary means of egress and accessible means of egress systems and facilities.

    3307.2 Water supply for fire protection. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible building materials arrive on the site, on commencement of vertical combustible construction and on installation of a standpipe system in buildings under construction, in accordance with Sections 3307.2.1 through 3307.4.

    Exception: The fire code official is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.

    3307.2.1 Combustible building materials. When combustible building materials of the building under construction are delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used to provide this fire-flow supply shall be within 500 feet (152 m) of the combustible building materials, as measured along an approved fire apparatus access lane. Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 500 feet (152 m) of all combustible building materials, additional fire hydrants shall be required to provide coverage in accordance with this section.

    3307.2.2 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 3307.2.2.1 through 3307.2.2.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.

    3307.2.2.1 Fire separation up to 30 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the water supply shall provide either a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) or the entire fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

    3307.2.2.2 Fire separation of 30 feet up to 60 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of 30 feet (9144 mm) up to 60 feet (18 288 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the water supply shall provide a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) or 50 percent of the fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

    3307.2.2.3 Fire separation of 60 feet or greater. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation of 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater from a property lot line, a water supply of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided.

    3307.3 Vertical construction, Type I and II construction. If combustible building materials are delivered to the construction site, water supply in accordance with Section 3307.2.1 shall be provided. Additional water supply for fire flow is not required prior to commencing vertical construction of Type I and II buildings.

    3307.4 Standpipe supply. Regardless of the presence of combustible building materials, the construction type or the fire separation distance, where a standpipe is required in accordance with Section 3307.5, a water supply providing a minimum flow of 500 gallons

  • CFC § 1509.3 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 1509.3 Detailed requirements. Standpipes shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9 of the California Building Code .

    Exception: Standpipes shall be either temporary or permanent in nature, and with or without a water supply, provided that such standpipes conform to the requirements of Section 905 of the California Building Code as to capacity, outlets and materials.

    SECTION 1510—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM

    [F] 1510.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code or the California Building Code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portions of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved, except as provided in Section 110.3.

    [F] 1510.2 Operation of valves. Operation of sprinkler control valves shall be permitted only by properly authorized personnel and shall be accompanied by notification of duly designated parties. When the sprinkler protection is being regularly turned off and on to

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    facilitate connection of newly completed segments, the sprinkler control valves shall be checked at the end of each work period to ascertain that protection is in service.

    SECTION 1511—ACCESSIBILITY

    [BE] 1511.1 Construction sites. Structures, sites and equipment directly associated with the actual process of construction, including, but not limited to, scaffolding, bridging, material hoists, material storage or construction trailers, are not required to be accessible.

    SECTION 1512—WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION

    [F] 1512.1 When required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible building material arrives on the site, on commencement of vertical combustible construction, and on installation of a standpipe system in buildings under construction, in accordance with Sections 1512.1 through 1512.5.

    Exception: The fire code official is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.

    [F] 1512.2 Combustible building materials. When combustible building materials of the building under construction are delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used to provide this fire flow supply shall be within 500 feet (152 m) of the combustible building materials as measured along an approved fire apparatus access lane. Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 500 feet (152 m) of all combustible building materials, additional fire hydrants shall be required to provide coverage in accordance with this section.

    [F] 1512.3 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 1512.3.1 through 1512.3.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.

  • CFC § 3313.2 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 3313.2 Combustible building materials. When combustible building materials of the building under construction are delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used to provide this fire flow supply shall be within 500 feet (152 m) of the combustible building materials, as measured along an approved fire apparatus access lane. Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 500 feet (152 m) of all combustible building materials, additional fire hydrants shall be required to provide coverage in accordance with this section.

    [F] 3313.3 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 3313.3.1 through 3313.3.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.

    [F] 3313.3.1 Fire separation up to 30 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 33-7

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    SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION

    water supply shall provide either a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or the entire fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

    [F] 3313.3.2 Fire separation of 30 feet up to 60 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of 30 feet (9144 mm) up to 60 feet (18 288 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the water supply shall provide a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or 50 percent of the fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.

    [F] 3313.3.3 Fire separation of 60 feet or greater. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation of 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater from a property lot line, a water supply of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided.

    [F] 3313.4 Vertical construction, Types I and II construction. If combustible building materials are delivered to the construction site, water supply in accordance with Section 3313.2 shall be provided. Additional water supply for fire flow is not required prior to commencing vertical construction of Type I and II buildings.

    [F] 3313.5 Standpipe supply. Regardless of the presence of combustible building materials, the construction type or the fire separation distance, where a standpipe is required in accordance with Section 3311, a water supply providing a minimum flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used for this water supply shall be located within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the fire department connection supplying the standpipe.

    SECTION 3314—FIRE WATCH DURING CONSTRUCTION

  • CFC § 3310.2 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 3310.2 Maintenance of means of egress. Means of egress and required accessible means of egress shall be maintained at all times during construction, demolition, remodeling or alterations and additions to any building.

    Exception: Existing means of egress need not be maintained where approved temporary means of egress systems and facilities are provided.

    SECTION 3311—STANDPIPES

    [F] 3311.1 Where required. In buildings required to have standpipes by Section 905.3.1, not fewer than one standpipe shall be provided for use during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such standpipes shall be provided with fire department hose connections at locations adjacent to stairways complying with Section 3310.1. As construction progresses, such standpipes shall be extended to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.

    [F] 3311.2 Buildings being demolished. Where a building is being demolished and a standpipe exists within such a building, such standpipe shall be maintained in an operable condition so as to be available for use by the fire department. Such standpipe shall be demolished with the building but shall not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.

    [F] 3311.3 Detailed requirements. Standpipes shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9.

    Exception: Standpipes shall be either temporary or permanent in nature, and with or without a water supply, provided that such standpipes conform to the requirements of Section 905 as to capacity, outlets and materials.

    SECTION 3312—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM

    [F] 3312.1 Completion before occupancy. In buildings where an automatic sprinkler system is required by this code, it shall be unlawful to occupy any portion of a building or structure until the automatic sprinkler system installation has been tested and approved, except as provided in Section 111.3.

    [F] 3312.2 Operation of valves. Operation of sprinkler control valves shall be permitted only by properly authorized personnel and shall be accompanied by notification of duly designated parties. When the sprinkler protection is being regularly turned off and on to facilitate connection of newly completed segments, the sprinkler control valves shall be checked at the end of each work period to ascertain that protection is in service.

    SECTION 3313—WATER SUPPLY FOR FIRE PROTECTION

    [F] 3313.1 Where required. An approved water supply for fire protection, either temporary or permanent, shall be made available as soon as combustible building materials arrive on the site, on commencement of vertical combustible construction, and on installation of a standpipe system in buildings under construction, in accordance with Sections 3313.2 through 3313.5.

    Exception: The fire code official is authorized to reduce the fire-flow requirements for isolated buildings or a group of buildings in rural areas or small communities where the development of full fire-flow requirements is impractical.

  • CFC § 4-1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 4-1

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    4 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 4 provides requirements that apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:

    1. Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.

    2. Premises identification.

    3. Key boxes to provide ready access to properties secured by gated roadways or other impediments to rapid fire service access.

    4. Fire protection water supplies, including adequate water sources, pumper apparatus drafting sites, fire hydrant systems and system reliability.

    5. Fire department access to equipment such as fire suppression equipment and fire hydrants.

    SECTION 401—GENERAL

    401.1 Scope. Wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with emergency vehicle access and water supply in accordance with this chapter.

    401.2 Objective. The objective of this chapter is to establish the minimum requirements for emergency vehicle access and water supply for buildings and structures located in the wildland-urban interface areas.

    401.3 General safety precautions. General safety precautions shall be in accordance with this chapter. See also Appendix A.

    SECTION 402—APPLICABILITY

    402.1 Subdivisions. Subdivisions shall comply with Sections 402.1.1 and 402.1.2.

    402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the California Fire Code; the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 2; and access requirements in accordance with Section 403.

    402.1.2 Water supply. New subdivisions as determined by this jurisdiction shall be provided with water supply in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code; California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 4; and Section 404.

    402.1.2.1 Parcel map approval. Water supply requirements shall apply in the tentative and parcel map process when new parcels are approved by the local jurisdiction.

    402.2 Individual structures. Individual structures shall comply with Sections 402.2.1 and 402.2.2.

    402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with the California Fire Code; the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Subsection 1273; and Section 403 .

    402.2.2 Water supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with a conforming water supply in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 4; California Fire Code Section 507; and Section 404.

Frequently asked questions

Who decides the exact fire‑flow requirement for my project?

The required fire flow is determined by an approved method or Appendix B; the fire code official enforces and may authorize adjustments (reductions or increases) under Appendix B. § 507.3, § B103.1–B103.2.

What counts as an approved water supply?

A supply may be reservoirs, pressure tanks, elevated tanks, water mains or other fixed systems capable of delivering the required fire flow; private mains and tanks must meet NFPA standards referenced in the code. § 507.2, § 507.2.1, § 507.2.2.

If my site lacks municipal mains, can I use tanks or a well?

Yes — private tanks or other fixed systems are recognized as water supplies, but tanks and private service mains are subject to NFPA standards and approval by the authority having jurisdiction. § 507.2, § 507.2.1, § 507.2.2.

Does Appendix B automatically apply in every jurisdiction?

No — § 507.3 allows using an approved method or Appendix B. Appendix B is the commonly used tool, but confirm the local adoption and any jurisdictional amendments. § 507.3, Appendix B.

Who can reduce the required fire‑flow for remote rural buildings?

The fire code official may reduce requirements for isolated buildings or small communities where full fire‑flow development is impractical (Appendix B). § B103.1.

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