CFC · California Fire Code

Fire Safety Plan Contents

The California Fire Code requires a written fire safety plan (procedures + maps) that explains how fires are reported and occupants are notified, evacuated or defended in place; shows exits, hydrants, alarm and extinguisher locations; lists major hazards; and names people responsible for rescue, maintenance and housekeeping (see CFC §§ 404.2, 404.2.1, 404.2.2).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires

A fire safety plan must document how occupants will be warned, moved or sheltered, who does what, and where fire protection features and hazards are located. The controlling text is § 404.2 of the California Fire Code — the code requires both fire evacuation plans (procedural evacuation details) and fire safety plans (site/floor plans, hazards, personnel assignments) and lists specific required items for each. § 404.2.1 (evacuation plan items) and § 404.2.2 (fire safety plan items) set the detailed content requirements.

A fire safety plan must explain how fires are reported and alarmed, how people are notified and either evacuated or defended in place, where responders go, what hazards exist, and who is responsible for actions and equipment. (Plain English summary of § 404.2)

Requirements in detail

Use the table below when building or reviewing a plan. Each row is a decision-relevant item the CFC requires; the Code Reference column points to the specific controlling sub‑section.

Decision item What to put in the plan Code reference
Procedure for reporting fires/emergencies Step‑by‑step who calls whom and how (phone numbers, alarm signals, alternate means). § 404.2.2.1
Life safety strategy Describe whether response is complete evacuation, staged evacuation, or defend‑in‑place and how occupants are notified. § 404.2.2.2 (and § 404.2.1.1 for egress strategy)
Emergency egress / escape routes Primary and secondary routes, exits, and whether evacuation is by selected floors/areas or whole building. § 404.2.1.1, § 404.2.2.4.1–4.3
Procedures for personnel remaining to operate critical equipment Steps and safety controls for staff who must shut down or operate equipment prior to leaving. § 404.2.1.2
Elevator use procedures Procedures for use of occupant evacuation elevators when provided (coordinate with CBC § 3008). § 404.2.1.3
Assisted rescue and evacuation assistance How to assist occupants who cannot use general egress (areas of refuge, staff assistance, exterior assisted‑rescue points). § 404.2.1.4, § 404.2.2.4.1–4.4.2
Accountability procedures How occupants/employees are accounted for after evacuation (roll calls, assembly points). § 404.2.1.5, § 404.2.2.3.1
Identification & assignment of emergency personnel Names/roles for rescue, medical aid, maintenance of fire systems, housekeeping, and fuel‑hazard control. § 404.2.1.6, § 404.2.2.6–7
Alarm/notification description Preferred and backup occupant notification methods and EV/AC system voice/alarm tones/messages where installed. § 404.2.1.7–10, § 404.2.2.2.1
Site plan elements Assembly point, fire hydrant locations, and normal fire department vehicle access routes. § 404.2.2.3.1–3
Floor plan elements (map) Locations of exits, primary/secondary evacuation routes, accessible egress routes, areas of refuge, manual alarm boxes, extinguishers, hose stations, alarm annunciators/controls, refuge areas. § 404.2.2.4.1–4.9
Major fire hazards & housekeeping List normal‑use hazards and required maintenance/housekeeping procedures to control them. § 404.2.2.5
Plan contact list & updates Contact persons for more information and assignment for plan maintenance; keep plans current and notify fire code official for major changes (see occupancy‑specific requirements). § 404.2.1.9, § 404.2.2.6–7; occupancy sections e.g., § 403.6.1.2 for H‑5 require update notifications.

Notes:

  • The CFC separates fire evacuation plans (procedural, § 404.2.1) from fire safety plans (site/floor plans and hazard/personnel lists, § 404.2.2). Both must be prepared where Section 403 or other CFC sections require them.
  • Where elevator evacuation systems are used, the plan and training must specifically address elevator procedures per § 404.2.1.3 and cross‑reference the California Building Code requirements.

Presentation and format

  • Plans should include clear, legible site and floor maps with labeled items called out in the list above (exits, hydrants, assembly point, alarm controls, extinguishers). The code requires these floor/site map elements in § 404.2.2.3–4.
  • Keep one copy on‑site (accessible) and make additional copies for departments or tenant areas as required by occupancy chapters (see examples in § 403.x).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Certain occupancies have additional or amplified plan requirements:
    • Group H (High‑hazard): special H‑5 plans require diagrams for hazardous production materials and must be updated for major changes — see § 403.6 and § 403.6.1.1–1.2.
    • Group I (Institutional) and care occupancies must include staff action descriptions and locations/number of care recipients who cannot self‑preserve; see § 403.7 and § 403.7.1.1.
    • High‑rise, underground, high‑piled storage, lithium battery operations: these occupancies specifically require an approved plan in accordance with § 404 (see § 403.10 and its subparts). For example, high‑piled storage triggers a plan where the storage area exceeds 500,000 sq ft for Class I–IV commodities or 300,000 sq ft for high‑hazard commodities. § 403.10.5 lists thresholds.
    • Buildings using occupant evacuation elevators must incorporate elevator procedures in the plan and training (see § 403.10.4 and § 404.2.1.3).
  • Local fire code officials may require additional elements or plan updates based on local risk and operations (the CFC repeatedly ties plan requirements to the authority having jurisdiction — see § 404.1).

Common mistakes

  • Omitting assisted‑rescue/area‑of‑refuge procedures or not marking them on plans — the code requires assisted rescue procedures and accessible egress locations ( § 404.2.1.4, § 404.2.2.4.1–4.4.2 ).
  • Maps that lack critical features (assembly point, hydrants, fire‑department access, alarm controls, extinguisher locations) — these are explicitly required in § 404.2.2.3–4.
  • Failing to document who maintains fire protection equipment or who is assigned to housekeeping/fuel‑hazard control — the plan must identify these personnel per § 404.2.2.6–7.
  • Not updating the plan when there are major occupancy or tenant changes — many occupancy sections (e.g., § 403.6.1.2 for H‑5, § 403.10.1.4 for lease plans) call out updating and notification requirements.
  • Treating the plan as a one‑page document with no procedures or contact list — the CFC requires both procedural items and contact/assignment lists in separate subsections (see § 404.2.1 and § 404.2.2).

Worked example

Scenario: A 320,000‑sq‑ft warehouse storing high‑hazard commodities (Classified as “high‑hazard” in this context).

Steps to apply the CFC requirements:

  1. Determine whether a fire safety/evacuation plan is required. Because the high‑piled storage of high‑hazard commodities exceeds 300,000 sq ft, the building meets the trigger for a required plan per § 403.10.5.2 (high‑hazard commodity threshold). Prepare an approved plan in accordance with § 404.
  2. Create a fire evacuation plan (procedures) that includes:
    • Egress routes and whether evacuation is whole‑building or by zones (per § 404.2.1.1).
    • Procedures for employees assigned to operate critical material‑handling equipment before evacuation (§ 404.2.1.2).
    • Assisted‑rescue procedures for any staff who cannot self‑evacuate (§ 404.2.1.4).
  3. Create a fire safety plan (documents & maps) that includes:
    • Site plan showing occupant assembly point, all fire hydrants, and department vehicle access routes (§ 404.2.2.3.1–3). Mark these clearly on a map near the site entrance.
    • Floor/area plans showing exits, primary/secondary routes, manual alarm box locations, portable extinguishers, and the locations/quantities and storage arrangements of the high‑hazard commodities (§ 404.2.2.4 and § 404.2.2.5).
    • A list assigning personnel responsible for maintenance of suppression/detection systems and for housekeeping/fuel‑hazard control (§ 404.2.2.6–7).
  4. Submit and maintain the plan and update the fire department or fire code official when major changes occur (as required for H‑type occupancies and by local authority). § 403.6.1.2 and § 404.1 apply.

This stepwise application shows how the numerical threshold (300,000 sq ft) and the plan content lists in § 404.2 drive what must be in the plan.

Related provisions

  • § 404.1 — General applicability and when plans are required (ties to Section 403).
  • § 404.2 — Contents (overview).
  • § 404.2.1 — Fire evacuation plan items (procedural).
  • § 404.2.2 — Fire safety plan items (site/floor maps, hazards, personnel).
  • § 403.10 — Occupancy‑specific requirements: high‑rise, underground, occupant‑elevator buildings, high‑piled storage, lithium batteries, etc.
  • § 403.6 — Group H special requirements (H‑5 plans, updates, emergency response teams).
  • § 403.7 and § 403.3 / § 403.4 / § 403.9 — Institutional, business, educational, and residential occupancy plan and training requirements (see applicable occupancy subsection for added plan content).

Code references

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

  • CFC § 404.1 High relevance — show source text

    404.1 General. Where required by Section 403 or other sections of this code, fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plans shall comply with Sections 404.2 through 404.4.1.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.10] Evacuation of Buildings.

    Upon notification of fire, conduct of any fire drill, upon activation of the fire alarm, or upon orders of the fire authority having jurisdic- tion, buildings or structures within the scope of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be immediately evacuated or occupants shall be relocated in accordance with established plans.

    404.2 Contents. Fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plan contents shall be in accordance with Sections 404.2.1 through 404.2.3.2.

    404.2.1 Fire evacuation plans. Fire evacuation plans shall include the following:

    1. Emergency egress or escape routes and whether evacuation of the building is to be complete by selected floors or areas only or with a defend-in-place response.
    2. Procedures for employees who must remain to operate critical equipment before evacuating.
    3. Procedures for the use of elevators to evacuate the building where occupant evacuation elevators complying with Section 3008 of the California Building Code are provided.
    4. Procedures for assisted rescue for persons unable to use the general means of egress unassisted.
    5. Procedures for accounting for employees and occupants after evacuation has been completed.
    6. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for rescue or emergency medical aid.
    7. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying occupants of a fire or emergency.
    8. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting fires and other emergencies to the fire department or designated emergency response organization.
    9. Identification and assignment of personnel who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
    10. A description of the emergency voice/alarm communication system alert tone and preprogrammed voice messages, where provided.

    404.2.2 Fire safety plans. Fire safety plans shall include the following:

    1. The procedure for reporting a fire or other emergency.
    2. The life safety strategy including the following: 2.1. Procedures for notifying occupants, including areas with a private mode alarm system. 2.2. Procedures for occupants under a defend-in-place response. 2.3. Procedures for evacuating occupants, including those who need evacuation assistance.
    3. Site plans indicating the following: 3.1. The occupancy assembly point. 3.2. The locations of fire hydrants. 3.3. The normal routes of fire department vehicle access.
    4. Floor plans identifying the locations of the following:

    4.1. Exits.

    4.2. Primary evacuation routes. 4.3. Secondary evacuation routes.

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    4.4. Accessible egress routes. 4.4.1. Areas of refuge.

    4.4.2. Exterior areas for assisted rescue.

    4.5. Refuge areas associated with smoke barriers and horizontal exits.

    4.6. Manual fire alarm boxes.

    4.7. Portable fire extinguishers. 4.8. Occupant-use hose stations.

    4.9. Fire alarm annunciators and controls.

  • CFC § 403.12.1 High relevance — show source text

    403.12.1 Staff training and evacuation plan. Every organized camp shall institute fire training programs for all employees in the use of all fire extinguishing equipment and methods of evacuation, and shall establish procedures which shall, as far as possible, be followed in the event of fire or any other emergency. If located in a forest area a plan shall be prepared for the evacuation of the camp in case of an approaching forest fire or other emergency.

    403.12.2 Resident training. Within 24 hours after arrival, every group of persons attending an organized camp shall be made famil- iar with the method by which the fire alarm may be activated and with the procedures to be followed upon notification of fire.

    403.12.3 Fire drills. At least 1 fire drill shall be held within 24 hours of the commencement of each camping session. Additional drills shall be conducted at least once each week thereafter. When sessions exceed a 7-day period, at least 1 drill shall be held during night- time sleeping hours.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.13(c)(1)] Fire Drills. (Organized Camps)

    (c) Organized Camps. (1) Every organized camp shall institute fire training programs for all employees in the use of all fire extinguishing equip- ment and methods of evacuation, and shall establish procedures which shall, as far as possible, be followed in the event of fire or any other emergency. If located in a forest area a plan shall be prepared for the evacuation of the camp in case of an approaching forest fire or other emergency.

    SECTION 404—FIRE SAFETY, EVACUATION AND LOCKDOWN PLANS

    404.1 General. Where required by Section 403 or other sections of this code, fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plans shall comply with Sections 404.2 through 404.4.1.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.10] Evacuation of Buildings.

    Upon notification of fire, conduct of any fire drill, upon activation of the fire alarm, or upon orders of the fire authority having jurisdic- tion, buildings or structures within the scope of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be immediately evacuated or occupants shall be relocated in accordance with established plans.

    404.2 Contents. Fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plan contents shall be in accordance with Sections 404.2.1 through 404.2.3.2.

    404.2.1 Fire evacuation plans. Fire evacuation plans shall include the following:

    1. Emergency egress or escape routes and whether evacuation of the building is to be complete by selected floors or areas only or with a defend-in-place response.
    2. Procedures for employees who must remain to operate critical equipment before evacuating.
    3. Procedures for the use of elevators to evacuate the building where occupant evacuation elevators complying with Section 3008 of the California Building Code are provided.
    4. Procedures for assisted rescue for persons unable to use the general means of egress unassisted.
    5. Procedures for accounting for employees and occupants after evacuation has been completed.
    6. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for rescue or emergency medical aid.
    7. The preferred and any alternative means of notifying occupants of a fire or emergency.
    8. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting fires and other emergencies to the fire department or designated emergency response organization.
  • CFC § 404.2.2 High relevance — show source text
    1. The preferred and any alternative means of reporting fires and other emergencies to the fire department or designated emergency response organization.
    2. Identification and assignment of personnel who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan.
    3. A description of the emergency voice/alarm communication system alert tone and preprogrammed voice messages, where provided.

    404.2.2 Fire safety plans. Fire safety plans shall include the following:

    1. The procedure for reporting a fire or other emergency.
    2. The life safety strategy including the following: 2.1. Procedures for notifying occupants, including areas with a private mode alarm system. 2.2. Procedures for occupants under a defend-in-place response. 2.3. Procedures for evacuating occupants, including those who need evacuation assistance.
    3. Site plans indicating the following: 3.1. The occupancy assembly point. 3.2. The locations of fire hydrants. 3.3. The normal routes of fire department vehicle access.
    4. Floor plans identifying the locations of the following:

    4.1. Exits.

    4.2. Primary evacuation routes. 4.3. Secondary evacuation routes.

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    4.4. Accessible egress routes. 4.4.1. Areas of refuge.

    4.4.2. Exterior areas for assisted rescue.

    4.5. Refuge areas associated with smoke barriers and horizontal exits.

    4.6. Manual fire alarm boxes.

    4.7. Portable fire extinguishers. 4.8. Occupant-use hose stations.

    4.9. Fire alarm annunciators and controls.

    1. A list of major fire hazards associated with the normal use and occupancy of the premises, including maintenance and housekeeping procedures.

    2. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance of systems and equipment installed to prevent or control fires.

    3. Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance, housekeeping and controlling fuel hazard

    sources.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.13(a)(2)] Fire Drills. (Group E Occupancies)

    (a) Group E Occupancies.

    (2) Emergency Pre-Fire Planning. Each school principal, district superintendent or day nursery manager shall, in cooperation with the enforcing agency, prepare procedures to be followed in case of fire or other emergency. They should include the following:

    (A) Posting of the telephone number of the fire department in the office and/or at the main switchboard.

    (B) Assignment of a responsible person to call the fire department upon notification of any fire or activation of the alarm system for any reason other than fire drills.

    (C) Posting in a conspicuous place in each classroom or assembly area a plan showing paths of travel to evacuate the room in case of emergency and including an alternate route.

    (D) Posting in each classroom instructions to be followed by the teacher. These should include: 1. Maintaining of order during evacuation. 2. Removal of roll call book and calling of roll when designated evacuation area is reached.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.13(b)] Fire Drills. (College and University)

  • CFC § 3302.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    3302.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following, as applicable:

    1. Name and contact information of site safety director.

    2. Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.

    3. Procedures for reporting emergencies.

    4. Fire department vehicle access routes.

    5. Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.

    6. Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved, and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code.

    7. Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.

    8. Hot-work permit plan.

    9. Plans for control of combustible waste material.

    10. Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.

    11. Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.

    12. Changes that affect this plan.

    13. Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .

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    3302.2 Site safety director. The owner shall designate a person to be the site safety director. The site safety director shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan. The site safety director shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard service is provided in accordance with the California Fire Code, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.

    3302.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for the completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available for on-site inspection and review.

    1. Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.

    2. Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

    3. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.

    4. Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.

    5. Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.

    6. Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

    7. Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.

    8. The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.

    9. Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 3311.

    10. Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 3309 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    11. Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.

  • CFC § 1502.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 1502.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following as applicable:

    1. Name and contact information of site safety director.

    2. Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.

    3. Procedures for reporting emergencies.

    4. Fire department vehicle access routes.

    5. Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.

    6. Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    7. Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.

    8. Hot work permit plan.

    9. Plans for control of combustible waste material.

    10. Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.

    11. Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.

    12. Changes that affect this plan.

    13. Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .

    [F] 1502.2 Site safety director. The owner shall designate a person to be the site safety director. The site safety director shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan. The site safety director shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard service is provided in accordance with the California Fire Code, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.

    [F] 1502.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this

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    section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for inspection and review.

    1. Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.

    2. Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

    3. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.

    4. Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.

    5. Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.

    6. Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

    7. Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.

    8. The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.

    9. Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.

    10. Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    11. Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.

  • CFC § 403.6 High relevance — show source text

    403.6 Group H occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group H occupancies.

    403.6.1 Group H-5 occupancies. Group H-5 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.6.1.1 through 403.6.1.4.

    403.6.1.1 Plans and diagrams. In addition to the requirements of Section 404 and Section 407.6, plans and diagrams shall be maintained in approved locations indicating the approximate plan for each area; the amount and type of HPM stored, handled and used; locations of shutoff valves for HPM supply piping; emergency telephone locations and locations of exits.

    403.6.1.2 Plan updating. The plans and diagrams required by Sections 404, 403.6.1.1 and 407.6 shall be maintained up-todate and the fire code official and fire department shall be informed of major changes.

    403.6.1.3 Emergency response team. Responsible persons shall be designated as an on-site emergency response team and trained to be liaison personnel for the fire department. These persons shall aid the fire department in preplanning emergency responses, identifying locations where HPM is stored, handled and used, and be familiar with the chemical nature of such material. An adequate number of personnel for each work shift shall be designated.

    403.6.1.4 Emergency drills. Emergency drills of the on-site emergency response team shall be conducted on a regular basis but not less than once every three months. Records of drills conducted shall be maintained.

    403.7 Group I occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group I occupancies. Group I occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.7.1 through 403.7.3.6.

    403.7.1 Group R-2.1 occupancies. Group R-2.1 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.7.1.1 through 403.7.1.4.

    403.7.1.1 Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include a description of special staff actions. Plans shall include all of the following in addition to the requirements of Section 404:

    1. Procedures for full evacuation of care recipients.
    2. In Group R-2.1, Condition 2, procedures for staged evacuation of care recipients through a refuge area in an adjacent smoke compartment and then to an exterior assembly point.
    3. Shall be amended or revised upon admission of any resident care recipient with unusual needs.

    403.7.1.1.1 Fire safety plan. A copy of the fire safety plan shall be maintained at the facility at all times. The plan shall include the following in addition to the requirements of Section 404.2.2:

    1. Location and number of care recipient sleeping rooms.
    2. Location of special locking arrangements.

    403.7.1.2 Staff training. Staff shall be periodically instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibilities under the plan. Records of instruction shall be maintained. Such instruction shall be reviewed by staff at intervals not exceeding three months. Training of new staff shall be provided promptly upon entrance to duty.

    Staff shall be instructed in the proper use of portable fire extinguishers and other manual fire suppression equipment.

  • CFC § 601.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 601—GENERAL

    601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter establish general requirements for new and existing buildings, structures and premises located within wildland-urban interface (WUI) areas .

    601.2 Objective. The objective of this chapter is to establish minimum requirements to mitigate conditions that might cause a fire originating in a structure to ignite vegetation in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) area, and conversely, a wildfire burning in vegetative fuels to transmit fire to buildings and threaten to destroy life, overwhelm fire suppression capabilities or result in large property losses.

    601.3 Chapter 6 definitions. Where used in this chapter, the term listed below shall be defined as follows:

    DEFENSIBLE SPACE. The buffer that landowners are required to create on their property between a “Building or Structure” and the plants, brush and trees or other items surrounding the “Building or Structure” that could ignite in the event of a fire. [CCR Title 14 §1299.02(a)]

    SECTION 602— FIRE PROTECTION PLANS

    602.1 General. The code official is authorized to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a fire protection plan. The fire protection plan shall be prepared to determine the acceptability of fire protection and life safety measures designed to mitigate wildfire hazards presented for the property under consideration.

    The fire protection plan shall be prepared by a registered design professional, qualified landscape architect, qualified fire safety specialist or similar specialist acceptable to the code official and shall analyze the wildfire risk of the building, project, premises or region to recommend necessary changes.

    The code official is authorized to require a preliminary fire protection plan prior to the submission of a final fire protection plan.

    602.2 Contents. The fire protection plan shall be based on a project-specific wildfire hazard assessment that includes considerations of location, topography, aspect and climatic and fire history.

    The plan shall identify conformance with all applicable state wildfire protection regulations, statutes and applicable local ordi- nances, whichever are more restrictive.

    The plan shall address fire department access, egress, road and address signage and water supply in addition to fuel reduction in accordance with Public Resources Code (PRC) 4290; the defensible space requirements in accordance with PRC 4291 or Government Code 51182; and the applicable building codes and standards for wildfire safety. The plan shall identify mitigation measures to address the project’s specific wildfire risk and shall include the information required in Sections 602.3 through 602.3.2.

    602.3 Project information. The final fire protection plan shall be reviewed and approved prior to start of construction.

    602.3.1 Preliminary fire protection plan. When a preliminary fire protection plan is submitted, it shall include, at a minimum, the following: 1. Total size of the project. 2. Information on the adjoining properties on all sides, including current land uses, and if known, existing structures and densi- ties, planned construction, natural vegetation, environmental restoration plans, roads and parks. 3. A map with all project boundary lines, property lines, slope contour lines, proposed structure foundation footprints, and proposed roads and driveways. The map shall identify project fuel modification zones and method of identifying the fuel modification zone boundaries.

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  • CFC § 403.9.2.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    These should include:_ 4.1. Maintaining order during evacuation. 4.2. Removal of roll call book and calling of roll when designated evacuation area is reached.

    403.9.2.1.2 First emergency evacuation drill. The first emergency evacuation drill of each school year shall be conducted within 10 days of the beginning of classes.

    403.9.2.1.3 Time of day. Emergency evacuation drills shall be conducted at different hours of the day or evening, during the changing of classes, when school is at assembly, during recess or gymnastic periods or during other times to avoid distinction between drills and actual fires. One required drill shall be held during hours after sunset or before sunrise.

    403.9.2.2 Emergency guide. Fire emergency guides shall be provided for Group R-2 occupancies. Guide contents, maintenance and distribution shall comply with Sections 403.9.2.2.1 through 403.9.2.2.3.

    403.9.2.2.1 Guide contents. A fire emergency guide shall describe the location, function and use of fire protection equipment and appliances available for use by residents, including fire alarm systems, smoke alarms and portable fire extinguishers. Guides shall include an emergency evacuation plan for each dwelling unit.

    403.9.2.2.2 Emergency guide maintenance. Emergency guides shall be reviewed and approved by the fire code official.

    403.9.2.2.3 Emergency guide distribution. A copy of the emergency guide shall be given to each tenant prior to initial

    occupancy.

    403.9.2.3 Evacuation diagrams for dormitories. A diagram depicting two evacuation routes shall be posted on or immediately adjacent to every required egress door from each dormitory sleeping unit or dwelling unit. Evacuation diagrams shall be reviewed and updated as needed to maintain accuracy.

    403.9.3 Group R-4 occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group R-4 occupancies. Group R-4 occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.9.3.1 through 403.9.3.4.

    403.9.3.1 Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include a description of special staff actions. Plans shall include procedures necessary for full evacuation of care recipients, and shall be amended or revised upon admission of care recipients with unusual needs.

    403.9.3.1.1 Fire safety plan. A copy of the fire safety plan shall be maintained at the facility at all times. The plan shall include the following in addition to the requirements of Section 404.2.2:

    1. Location and number of care recipient sleeping rooms.
    2. Location of special locking arrangements.

    403.9.3.2 Staff training. Staff shall be periodically instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibilities under the plan. Records of instruction shall be maintained. Such instruction shall be reviewed by staff at intervals not exceeding three months. Training of new staff shall be provided promptly upon entrance to duty.

    Staff shall be instructed in the proper use of portable fire extinguishers and other manual fire suppression equipment.

  • CFC § 403.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    403.3.1.1 Fire safety and evacuation plan. The fire safety and evacuation plan required by Section 404 shall include a description of special staff actions. This shall include procedures for stabilizing care recipients in a defend-in-place response, staged evacuation, or full evacuation in conjunction with the entire building if part of a multitenant facility.

    403.3.1.1.1 Fire safety plan. A copy of the fire safety plan shall be maintained at the facility at all times. The plan shall include all of the following in addition to the requirements of Section 404:

    1. Locations of care recipients who are rendered incapable of self-preservation.
    2. Maximum number of care recipients rendered incapable of self-preservation.
    3. Area and extent of each ambulatory care facility.
    4. Location of any special locking arrangements.

    403.3.1.2 Staff training. Staff shall be periodically instructed and kept informed of their duties and responsibilities under the plan. Records of instruction shall be maintained. Such instruction shall be reviewed by the staff at intervals not exceeding three months. Training of new staff shall be provided promptly on entrance to duty.

    Staff shall be instructed in the proper use of portable fire extinguishers and other manual fire suppression equipment.

    403.4 Group E occupancies. An approved fire safety and evacuation plan in accordance with Section 404 shall be prepared and maintained for Group E occupancies and for buildings containing both a Group E occupancy and an atrium. Group E occupancies shall comply with Sections 403.4.1 through 403.4.4 .

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.13(a)(1)] Fire Drills. (Group E Occupancies)

    (a) Group E Occupancies.

    (1) General. Every person and public officer managing, controlling or in charge of any public, private or parochial school shall cause the fire alarm signal to be sounded upon the discovery of fire. Every person and public officer managing, controlling or in charge of any public, private or parochial school, other than a two-year community college, shall cause the fire alarm signal to be sounded not less than once every calendar month at the elementary and intermediate levels, and not less than twice yearly at the secondary level, in the manner prescribed in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, Section 907.

    A fire drill shall be held at the secondary level not less than twice every school year.

    403.4.1 Group E Occupancies. Every person and public officer managing, controlling or in charge of any public, private or parochial school, other than a two-year community college, shall cause the fire alarm signal to be sounded not less than once every calendar month at the elementary and intermediate levels, and not less than twice yearly at the secondary level in the manner prescribed in Section 907. A fire drill shall be held at the secondary level not less than twice every school year.

    403.4.1.1 Emergency Pre-Fire Planning. Each school principal, district superintendent or day nursery manager shall, in cooperation _with the enforcing agency, prepare procedures to be followed in case of fire or other emergency.

  • CFC § 701 High relevance — show source text

    Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features

    The maintenance of assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated is a key component in a passive fire protection philosophy. Chapter 7 sets forth requirements to maintain required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the basics of what construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers need to be maintained as well as defining the owner’s responsibility. Sections 703 through 708, deals with various fire and smoke protection features that must also be maintained.

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    Chapter 8 Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings

    The overall purpose of Chapter 8 is to regulate interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards within buildings. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the CBC, which regulates the interior finishes of new buildings.

    Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems

    Chapter 9 prescribes the minimum requirements for active systems of fire protection equipment to perform the following functions: detect a fire, alert the occupants or fire department of a fire emergency, and control smoke and control or extinguish the fire. Generally, the requirements are based on the occupancy, the height and the area of the building because these are the factors that most affect firefighting capabilities and the relative hazard of a specific building or portion thereof. This chapter parallels and is substantially duplicated in Chapter 9 of the CBC; however, this chapter also contains periodic testing criteria that are not contained in the CBC. In addition, the special fire protection system requirements based on use and occupancy found in CBC Chapter 4 are duplicated in CFC Chapter 9 as a user convenience.

    Chapter 10 Means of Egress

    The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7 of the CBC), interior finish (see Chapter 8 of the CBC), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.

    Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings

    Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and intends to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for retroactive requirements to install or upgrade fire safety features to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the CBC. Prior to the 2009 edition, its content existed in the CFC but in a random manner that was neither efficient nor user-friendly. In the 2007/2008 International Code Council (ICC) code development cycle, a code change (F294-07/ 08) was approved that consolidated the retroactive elements of CFC into a single chapter for easier and more efficient reference and application to existing buildings.

    Chapter 12 Energy Systems

  • CFC § 602.2 High relevance — show source text

    602.2 Contents. The fire protection plan shall be based on a project-specific wildfire hazard assessment that includes considerations of location, topography, aspect and climatic and fire history.

    The plan shall identify conformance with all applicable state wildfire protection regulations, statutes and applicable local ordi- nances, whichever are more restrictive.

    The plan shall address fire department access, egress, road and address signage and water supply in addition to fuel reduction in accordance with Public Resources Code (PRC) 4290; the defensible space requirements in accordance with PRC 4291 or Government Code 51182; and the applicable building codes and standards for wildfire safety. The plan shall identify mitigation measures to address the project’s specific wildfire risk and shall include the information required in Sections 602.3 through 602.3.2.

    602.3 Project information. The final fire protection plan shall be reviewed and approved prior to start of construction.

    602.3.1 Preliminary fire protection plan. When a preliminary fire protection plan is submitted, it shall include, at a minimum, the following: 1. Total size of the project. 2. Information on the adjoining properties on all sides, including current land uses, and if known, existing structures and densi- ties, planned construction, natural vegetation, environmental restoration plans, roads and parks. 3. A map with all project boundary lines, property lines, slope contour lines, proposed structure foundation footprints, and proposed roads and driveways. The map shall identify project fuel modification zones and method of identifying the fuel modification zone boundaries.

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    FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS

    602.3.2 Final fire protection plan. Final fire protection plan shall include items listed in Section 602.3.1 and the following: 1. A map identifying all proposed plants in the fuel modification zones with a legend that includes a symbol for each proposed plant species. The plan shall include specific information on each species proposed, including but not limited to: 1.1. The plant life-form;

    1.2. The scientific and common name; and

    1.3. The expected height and width for mature growth. 2. Identification of irrigated and nonirrigated zones. 3. Requirements for vegetation reduction around emergency access and evacuation routes. 4. Identification of points of access for equipment and personnel to maintain vegetation in common areas. 5. Legally binding statements regarding community responsibility for maintenance of fuel modification zones. 6. Legally binding statements to be included in covenants, conditions and restrictions regarding property owner responsibili- ties for vegetation maintenance.

    SECTION 603— VEGETATION PLAN

    603.1 General. Planting of vegetation for new landscaping shall be selected to reduce vegetation in proximity to a structure and to maintain vegetation as it matures.

    603.2 Application. All new plantings of vegetation in State Responsibility Area (SRA) and Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as a Fire Hazard Severity Zone shall comply with Sections 603.3 through 603.4.2.1.

  • CFC § 3301.2 High relevance — show source text

    3301.2 Purpose. This chapter prescribes minimum safeguards for construction, alteration and demolition operations to provide reasonable safety to life and property from fire during such operations.

    SECTION 3302—DEFINITIONS

    3302.1 Terms defined in Chapter 2. Words and terms used in this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings ascribed to them as defined therein.

    SECTION 3303—ADMINISTRATIVE SAFETY CONTROLS

    3303.1 Program development and maintenance. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention program at the project site applicable throughout all phases of the construction, repair, alteration or demolition work. The plan addresses the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of this code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued. Any changes to the plan shall be submitted for approval.

    3303.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following as applicable:

    1. Name and contact information of site safety director.

    2. Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.

    3. Procedures for reporting emergencies.

    4. Fire department vehicle access routes.

    5. Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.

    6. Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved, and signage locations in accordance with Section 3305.7.

    7. Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.

    8. Hot work permit plan.

    9. Plans for control of combustible waste material.

    10. Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.

    11. Provisions for site security and where required, for a fire watch.

    12. Changes that affect this plan.

    13. Other site-specific information required by the fire code official.

    3303.2 Site safety director. The owner shall designate a person to be the site safety director. The site safety director shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan. The site safety director shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard service is provided in accordance with NFPA 241, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.

    3303.2.1 Training. Training of fire watch and other responsible personnel in the use of fire protection equipment shall be the responsibility of the site safety director. Records of training shall be kept and made a part of the written plan for the site safety plan.

    3303.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section.

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    FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION

    The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for presentation to the fire code official upon request.

    1. Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in Chapter 35, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.
    2. Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the single most important element a fire safety plan must include?

A clear statement of the life‑safety strategy (evacuate, staged evacuate, or defend‑in‑place) and how occupants will be notified — required by § 404.2.2.2 and § 404.2.1.1.

Do floor plans have to show extinguishers and alarm controls?

Yes. Floor plans must identify portable fire extinguishers, occupant‑use hose stations, manual alarm boxes, and fire alarm annunciators/controls per § 404.2.2.4.6–4.9.

Who must be named in the plan?

Personnel responsible for rescue/medical aid, maintenance of fire protection systems, and housekeeping/fuel‑hazard control must be identified and assigned per § 404.2.1.6 and § 404.2.2.6–7.

How often must the plan be updated?

The code requires the plan be kept current; occupancy sections (for example, H‑type and lease plans) specifically call for updates when major changes occur. Check § 403.6.1.2 and § 403.10.1.4 for examples.

Are special procedures required for buildings using occupant evacuation elevators?

Yes — the plan and training must include elevator procedures for occupant evacuation elevators and reference CBC § 3008; see § 404.2.1.3 and § 403.10.4.

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