CFC · California Fire Code

What are the rules for combustible waste, open burning and recreational fires?

The CFC requires you to keep combustible waste from accumulating and to store it in approved containers; open burning and recreational fires are allowed only if they meet the code’s permit, distance, attendance and equipment rules (50 ft default for open burning, 25 ft for recreational fires, 15 ft for approved containers), and they may be prohibited based on air quality or local conditions. Check **§ 304.1** and **§ 307.1–§ 307.5** and consult your local fire authority and air district before burning.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Fire Code forbids allowing combustible waste material to accumulate where it creates a fire hazard — owners/occupants must store in approved containers and remove it promptly (§ 304.1). Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces are regulated: many require a permit or approval, are limited by minimum distances to structures, may be prohibited under certain atmospheric or local conditions, and must be constantly attended with extinguishing equipment at hand (§ 307.1, § 307.2, § 307.4, § 307.5) .

The single most important rule: remove and store combustible waste so it does not create a fire hazard, and do not light open burning or recreational fires unless they meet the location, distance, permit, and attendance rules in Chapter 3 of the CFC. § 304.1 and § 307.1 are the controlling provisions.

Requirements in detail

A. Combustible waste — what the code requires

  • Do not allow combustible waste material to accumulate in buildings or on premises in a way that creates a fire hazard; remove or store it in approved containers and dispose of it promptly (§ 304.1, § 304.1.2) .
  • Vegetation that can ignite and endanger property must be cut and removed; wildland‑urban interface clearance rules are handled in Chapter 49 (§ 304.1.3) .
  • Special rules apply to valet trash, oily rags, ashes and large waste containers — see the code snippets below and related sections for container construction and storage specifics (§ 304.1.1, § 304.1.2, § 304.1.3; container requirements referenced in Chapter 33) .

B. Open burning and permitted fires — overview

  • You must not kindle or maintain any open burning except when conducted and approved under the CFC (§ 307.1) .
  • Open burning may be prohibited by the fire code official when atmospheric or local circumstances make fires hazardous; prescribed (authorized) burning for wildland management is an exception if authorized (§ 307.1.1, § 307.2 (exception)) .
  • Certain open burning activities (silvicultural/range/wildlife, disease/pest control, bonfires) require a permit issued to the landowner in accordance with Section 105.5 (§ 307.2) .
  • The fire code official can order extinguishment where open burning creates or increases hazard, or where a required permit was not obtained (§ 307.3) .

C. Location, distances, attendance, and equipment

Use the following decision table to determine what is allowed and what distance/requirements apply.

Activity / Item Permit required? Minimum distance to structure / combustible material Attendance & extinguishing equipment Code reference
Open burning (general piles) Often — see § 307.2 for required types 50 ft (15240 mm) minimum; prevent spread to within 50 ft Constant attendance until extinguished; at least one portable extinguisher 4‑A min. or approved equipment on site § 307.4, § 307.5
Open burning in approved container If approved, distance may be reduced to 15 ft 15 ft exception from structures for approved containers Same attendance/extinguisher requirements § 307.4 (Exceptions)
Small pile (≤ 3 ft diameter and ≤ 2 ft height) May still require approval depending on local regs 25 ft minimum from structures (exception) Attendance/extinguisher per § 307.5 § 307.4 (Exceptions)
Bonfire Permit required (bonfires listed in § 307.2); owner must apply 50 ft minimum unless contained in barbecue pit Remove conditions that could spread fire within 50 ft; attendance/ext. equipment required § 307.2, § 307.4.1, § 307.5
Recreational fire (e.g., campfire) Typically no permit for small recreational fires — check local jurisdiction 25 ft minimum from structure/combustible material Must be constantly attended; extinguisher/approved on‑site equipment required § 307.4.2, § 307.5
Portable outdoor fireplace Manufacturer’s instructions; 15 ft minimum (exception for 1‑ and 2‑family dwellings) 15 ft min from structures/combustibles; exception at one‑ and two‑family dwellings Constant attendance; extinguisher/approved equipment required § 307.4.3, § 307.5

Notes:

  • The permit requirement is specifically required for recognized silvicultural/range/wildlife burning, disease/pest control, or bonfires; the application must be from the landowner and the permit is issued under § 307.2 (and Section 105.5) .
  • Air-quality or water-quality agency approvals may also be required where state/local law demands it; that authorization must be followed (§ 307.2.1) .

D. Combustible waste container & storage specifics

  • Ashes, oily rags, oily waste: store in approved containers; oily rags and similar materials susceptible to spontaneous ignition must be stored in listed disposal containers and emptied daily (§ 304.1, Chapter 33 provisions) .
  • Rubbish containers exceeding 5.33 cu ft (40 gallons) used for temporary storage must have tight‑fitting/self‑closing lids and be constructed of noncombustible materials or materials meeting heat‑release criteria in Chapter 33 (§ 3304.1.3) .
  • Hot ashes, smoldering coals or oily materials must not be placed in combustible receptacles or within 10 ft of other combustibles or 2 ft of openings; an exception allows 2 ft separation when placed in a covered noncombustible receptacle on a noncombustible surface (§ 305.2) .

Exceptions & special cases

  • Approved containers: open burning exceptions allow fires in approved containers at 15 ft from structures (instead of 50 ft) and small piles (≤ 3 ft diameter × ≤ 2 ft height) at 25 ft from structures (§ 307.4 exceptions) .
  • Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one‑ and two‑family dwellings are exempt from the 15‑ft restriction in § 307.4.3 (i.e., the exception allows different application at single/double family dwellings) .
  • Prescribed burning for wildland‑fire risk reduction is an exception to some prohibitions but must be authorized by the fire code official (§ 307.1.1) .
  • Local and state air‑quality requirements: where required, open burning may also require prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority; any conditions in their authorization must be followed (§ 307.2.1) .

If you need the precise wording or a copy of a permit form or local air‑quality checklist, those are outside the code text here and must be obtained from your local fire authority or air district.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming "small" fires never need permission — many recreational fires still require distance clearances and can be banned under poor atmospheric conditions (§ 307.1.1, § 307.4.2) .
  • Placing hot ashes into ordinary trash cans or near building openings — ashes must be placed in approved metal containers and kept away from combustibles (§ 305.2, §304 related provisions) .
  • Forgetting attendance and extinguishing requirements — all open burning, bonfires and recreational fires must be constantly attended and have at least one portable extinguisher (minimum 4‑A rating) or equivalent on site (§ 307.5) .
  • Ignoring local or air‑quality rules — the CFC requires coordination with state/local air and water authorities where law applies; failing to follow those approvals can lead to ordered extinguishment (§ 307.2.1, § 307.3) .

Worked example — applying the rules with numbers

Scenario: A homeowner wants to have a small backyard recreational fire in a portable fire pit on a property with nearby combustible landscaping 20 feet from the house.

  1. Identify the activity: Recreational fire. The basic distance rule is 25 ft from structures/combustible material per § 307.4.2. The homeowner’s pit is 20 ft from the house, which is less than 25 ft, so this placement does not comply unless an applicable exception applies (none for recreational fires except local permitting/approvals) — the homeowner must either move the pit to at least 25 ft from the house or use a method allowed by the authority having jurisdiction (§ 307.4.2) .
  2. Equipment & attendance: Whether moved or not, the fire must be constantly attended until extinguished and have at least one portable fire extinguisher (minimum 4‑A rating) or approved alternative (garden hose, dirt, water barrel) immediately available (§ 307.5) .
  3. If the homeowner chooses a portable outdoor fireplace, manufacturer instructions must be followed and the 15‑ft distance rule applies unless the dwelling is a one‑ or two‑family home (which may be exempt) — confirm the exact dwelling type and local rules (§ 307.4.3) .
  4. If local air district or municipal ordinances ban recreational fires during poor air quality days, the fire would be prohibited under § 307.1.1 and § 307.2.1 — check local restrictions before lighting .

Related provisions

  • § 304.1 — Combustible waste accumulation and storage requirements (main prohibition)
  • § 304.1.2 / § 304.1.3 — Waste material on roofs/yards and vegetation removal requirements
  • § 305.2 — Hot ashes, smoldering coals, and safe placement (separations/exceptions)
  • § 307.1 – § 307.5 — Open burning, permits, prohibitions, distances, attendance, extinguishment authority (primary open‑burning rules)
  • § 3304.1.3 — Requirements for large rubbish containers (> 5.33 cu ft / 40 gallons) (construction, lids) — referenced for waste containers in Chapter 3 provisions
  • Wildland‑urban interface rules (clearance and permitted outdoor fires) — see Chapter 49 and A104.x for more restrictive local rules in those areas

Code references

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

  • CFC § 307.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. Fires in approved containers that are not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) from a structure.
    2. The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 25 feet (7620 mm) where the pile size is 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in height.

    307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.

    307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.

    307.4.3 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and shall not be operated within 15 feet (3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.

    Exception: Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one- and two-family dwellings.

    307.5 Attendance. Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. Not fewer than one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.

    SECTION 308—OPEN FLAMES

    308.1 General. Open flame, fire and burning on all premises shall be in accordance 0with Sections 308.1.1 through 308.4.1 and with other applicable sections of this code.

    308.1.1 Where prohibited. A person shall not take or utilize an open flame or light in a structure, vessel, boat or other place where highly flammable, combustible or explosive material is utilized or stored. Lighting appliances shall be well-secured in a glass globe and wire mesh cage or a similar approved device.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.25(a) and (b)] Open Flame Devices.

    (a) Open flame devices shall be prohibited in every Group A, E, I, R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 Occupancy.

    Exceptions:

    (1) Fuel burning elements of approved appliances shall not be considered as open flame devices.

    (2) Upon approval of the enforcing agency, open flame devices may be used under the following conditions.

    (A) When necessary for ceremonial or theatrical purposes under such restrictions as may be deemed necessary to avoid danger of ignition of combustible materials or injury to occupants.

    (B) In approved and stable candle holders on individual tables of dining establishments.

    (b) Under no circumstances shall hand held open flame devices such as exposed candles be permitted for any purpose in any occu- pancy within the scope of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations.

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    GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

  • CFC § 307.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 307—OPEN BURNING, RECREATIONAL FIRES AND PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACES

    307.1 General. A person shall not kindle or maintain or authorize to be kindled or maintained any open burning unless conducted and approved in accordance with Sections 307.1.1 through 307.5.

    307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Open burning shall be prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous.

    Exception: Prescribed burning for the purpose of reducing the impact of wildland fire when authorized by the fire code official.

    307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.5 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land on which the fire is to be kindled.

    307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted with prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority, provided that all conditions specified in the authorization are followed.

    307.3 Extinguishment authority. Where open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of the open burning operation.

    307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall be not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of any structure.

    Exceptions:

    1. Fires in approved containers that are not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) from a structure.
    2. The minimum required distance from a structure shall be 25 feet (7620 mm) where the pile size is 3 feet (914 mm) or less in diameter and 2 feet (610 mm) or less in height.

    307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.

    307.4.2 Recreational fires. Recreational fires shall not be conducted within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure or combustible material. Conditions that could cause a fire to spread within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition.

    307.4.3 Portable outdoor fireplaces. Portable outdoor fireplaces shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and shall not be operated within 15 feet (3048 mm) of a structure or combustible material.

    Exception: Portable outdoor fireplaces used at one- and two-family dwellings.

    307.5 Attendance. Open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished. Not fewer than one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment, such as dirt, sand, water barrel, garden hose or water truck, shall be available for immediate utilization.

    SECTION 308—OPEN FLAMES

  • CFC § 3304.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 3304—PROTECTION OF COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

    3304.1 Combustible debris, rubbish and waste. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall comply with the requirements of Sections 3304.1.1 through 3304.2.

    3304.1.1 Combustible waste material accumulation. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall not be accumulated within buildings.

    3304.1.2 Combustible waste material removal. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall be removed from buildings at the end of each shift of work.

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    FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION

    3304.1.3 Rubbish containers. Where rubbish containers with a capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet (40 gallons) (0.15 m [3] ) are used for temporary storage of combustible debris, rubbish and waste material, they shall have tight-fitting or self-closing lids. Such rubbish containers shall be constructed entirely of materials that comply with either of the following:

    1. Noncombustible materials.

    2. Materials that meet a peak rate of heat release not exceeding 300 kW/m [2] when tested in accordance with ASTM E1354 at an incident heat flux of 50 kW/m [2] in the horizontal orientation.

    3304.2 Spontaneous ignition. Materials susceptible to spontaneous ignition, such as oily rags, shall be stored in a listed disposal container.

    SECTION 3305—IGNITION SOURCE CONTROLS

    3305.1 Listed. Temporary heating devices shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance and use of temporary heating devices shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.

    3305.1.1 Oil-fired heaters. Oil-fired heaters shall comply with Section 605.

    3305.1.2 LP-gas heaters. Fuel supplies for liquefied-petroleum gas-fired heaters shall comply with Chapter 61 and the Interna- tional Fuel Gas Code .

    3305.1.3 Refueling. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or appliances shall be conducted in accordance with Section 5705. The equipment or appliance shall be allowed to cool prior to refueling.

    3305.1.4 Installation. Clearance to combustibles from temporary heating devices shall be maintained in accordance with the labeled equipment. When in operation, temporary heating devices shall be fixed in place and protected from damage, dislodgement or overturning in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

    3305.1.5 Supervision. The use of temporary heating devices shall be supervised and maintained only by competent personnel.

    3305.2 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited except in approved areas. Signs shall be posted in accordance with Section 310. In approved areas where smoking is permitted, approved ashtrays shall be provided in accordance with Section 310.

    3305.3 Burning of combustible debris, rubbish and waste. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall not be disposed of by burning on the site unless approved.

    3305.4 Open burning. Open burning shall comply with Section 307.

    3305.5 Cutting and welding. Welding, cutting, open torches and other hot work operations and equipment shall comply with Chapter 35.

  • CFC § 305.3 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: The minimum required separation distance to other combustible materials shall be 2 feet (610 mm) where the material is deposited in a covered, noncombustible receptacle placed on a noncombustible floor, ground surface or stand.

    305.3 Open-flame warning devices. Open-flame warning devices shall not be used along an excavation, road, or any place where the dislodgment of such device might permit the device to roll, fall or slide on to any area or land containing combustible material.

    305.4 Deliberate or negligent burning. It shall be unlawful to deliberately or through negligence set fire to or cause the burning of combustible material in such a manner as to endanger the safety of persons or property.

    305.5 Unwanted fire ignitions. Acts or processes that have caused repeated ignition of unwanted fires shall be modified to prevent future ignition.

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    GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    SECTION 306—MOTION PICTURE PROJECTION ROOMS AND FILM

    306.1 Motion picture projection rooms. Electric arc, xenon or other light source projection equipment that develops hazardous gases, dust or radiation and the projection of ribbon-type cellulose nitrate film, regardless of California light source used in projection, shall be operated within a motion picture projection room complying with Section 409 of the California Building Code .

    306.2 Cellulose nitrate film storage. Storage of cellulose nitrate film shall be in accordance with NFPA 40.

    SECTION 307—OPEN BURNING, RECREATIONAL FIRES AND PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACES

    307.1 General. A person shall not kindle or maintain or authorize to be kindled or maintained any open burning unless conducted and approved in accordance with Sections 307.1.1 through 307.5.

    307.1.1 Prohibited open burning. Open burning shall be prohibited when atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make such fires hazardous.

    Exception: Prescribed burning for the purpose of reducing the impact of wildland fire when authorized by the fire code official.

    307.2 Permit required. A permit shall be obtained from the fire code official in accordance with Section 105.5 prior to kindling a fire for recognized silvicultural or range or wildlife management practices, prevention or control of disease or pests, or a bonfire. Application for such approval shall only be presented by and permits issued to the owner of the land on which the fire is to be kindled.

    307.2.1 Authorization. Where required by state or local law or regulations, open burning shall only be permitted with prior approval from the state or local air and water quality management authority, provided that all conditions specified in the authorization are followed.

    307.3 Extinguishment authority. Where open burning creates or adds to a hazardous situation, or a required permit for open burning has not been obtained, the fire code official is authorized to order the extinguishment of the open burning operation.

    307.4 Location. The location for open burning shall be not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any structure, and provisions shall be made to prevent the fire from spreading to within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of any structure.

  • CFC § 6.1 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Places of habitation or in the boundaries of established smoking areas or campsites as designated by the code official.

    A104.5 Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames. Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames capable of igniting nearby combustibles shall not be used in wildland-urban interface areas without a permit from the code official.

    Exception: Use of approved equipment within inhabited premises or designated campsites that are not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from grass-, grain-, brush- or forest-covered areas.

    A104.6 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in wildland-urban interface areas.

    Exception: Fireworks allowed by the code official under permit in accordance with the California Fire Code where not prohibited by applicable local or state laws, ordinances and regulations.

    A104.6.1 Authority to seize. The code official is authorized to seize, take, remove or cause to be removed fireworks in violation of this section.

    A104.7 Outdoor fires. Outdoor fires in wildland-urban interface areas shall comply with Sections A104.7.1 through A104.7.3.

    A104.7.1 General. Persons shall not build, ignite or maintain any outdoor fire of any kind for any purpose in or on any wildland- urban interface area, except by the authority of a written permit from the code official.

    Exception: Outdoor fires within inhabited premises or designated campsites where such fires are in a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace, incinerator or grill and are not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from any combustible material or nonfire-smart vegetation.

    A104.7.2 Permits. Permits shall incorporate such terms and conditions that will reasonably safeguard public safety and property. Outdoor fires shall not be built, ignited or maintained in or on hazardous fire areas under any of the following conditions:

    1. When high winds are blowing.
    2. When a person 17 years old or over is not present at all times to watch and tend such fire.
    3. When a public announcement is made that open burning is prohibited.

    A104.7.3 Restrictions. Persons shall not use a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace or grill for the disposal of rubbish, trash or combustible waste material.

    A104.8 Incinerators, outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills. Incinerators, outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall not be built, installed or maintained in wildland-urban interface areas without approval of the code official.

    A104.8.1 Maintenance. Incinerators, outdoor fireplaces, permanent barbecues and grills shall be maintained in good repair and in a safe condition at all times. Openings in such appliances shall be provided with an approved spark arrestor, screen or door.

    Exception: Where approved by the code official, unprotected openings in barbecues and grills necessary for proper functioning.

    A104.9 Reckless behavior. The code official is authorized to stop any actions of a person or persons if the official determines that the action is reckless and could result in an ignition of fire or spread of fire.

    A104.10 Planting vegetation under or adjacent to energized electrical lines. Vegetation that, at maturity, would grow to within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the energized conductors shall not be planted under or adjacent to energized power lines.

    SECTION A105—CONTROL OF STORAGE

  • CFC § 2-5 High relevance — show source text

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

    201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5

    202 General Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5

    203 Occupancy Classification and Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-40

    CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

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

    302 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    303 Asphalt Kettles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 304 Combustible Waste Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    305 Ignition Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-6 306 Motion Picture Projection Rooms and Film . . . . . . . . .3-7 307 Open Burning, Recreational Fires and Portable Outdoor Fireplaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7 308 Open Flames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7 309 Powered Industrial Trucks and Equipment . . . . . . . . .3-9 310 Smoking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10 311 Vacant Premises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10

    312 Vehicle Impact Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 313 Fueled Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 314 Indoor Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12 315 General Storage .

  • CFC § 304.3.6.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Recycling clean waste containers complying with Section 304.3.6.2 are not required to be stored in waste and linen collection rooms.

    304.3.6.1 Capacity density. The average capacity density of containers located in an individual room or space, other than waste and linen collection rooms, shall not be greater than 0.5 gal/ft (20.4 L/m).

    304.3.6.2 Recycling clean waste containers. Recycling clean waste containers, including their lids, shall not exceed an individual capacity of 96 gallons (363 L).

    304.3.7 Waste containers with a capacity of 20 gallons or more in Group R-2 college and university dormitories. Waste containers, including their lids, located in Group R-2 college and university dormitories, and with a capacity of 20 gallons (75.7 L) or more, shall be constructed of noncombustible materials or low heat release materials in accordance with Section 304.3.2. Metal waste containers with a capacity of 20 gallons (75.7 L) or more shall be listed in accordance with UL 1315 and shall be provided with a noncombustible lid. Portable waste containers exceeding 32 gallons (121 L) shall be stored in an area classified as a waste collection room constructed in accordance with Table 509.1 of the California Building Code .

    SECTION 305—IGNITION SOURCES

    305.1 Clearance from ignition sources. Clearance between ignition sources, such as luminaires, heaters, flame-producing devices and combustible materials, shall be maintained in an approved manner.

    305.2 Hot ashes and spontaneous ignition sources. Hot ashes, cinders, smoldering coals or greasy or oily materials subject to spontaneous ignition shall not be deposited in a combustible receptacle, within 10 feet (3048 mm) of other combustible material including combustible walls and partitions or within 2 feet (610 mm) of openings to buildings.

    Exception: The minimum required separation distance to other combustible materials shall be 2 feet (610 mm) where the material is deposited in a covered, noncombustible receptacle placed on a noncombustible floor, ground surface or stand.

    305.3 Open-flame warning devices. Open-flame warning devices shall not be used along an excavation, road, or any place where the dislodgment of such device might permit the device to roll, fall or slide on to any area or land containing combustible material.

    305.4 Deliberate or negligent burning. It shall be unlawful to deliberately or through negligence set fire to or cause the burning of combustible material in such a manner as to endanger the safety of persons or property.

    305.5 Unwanted fire ignitions. Acts or processes that have caused repeated ignition of unwanted fires shall be modified to prevent future ignition.

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    GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    SECTION 306—MOTION PICTURE PROJECTION ROOMS AND FILM

    306.1 Motion picture projection rooms. Electric arc, xenon or other light source projection equipment that develops hazardous gases, dust or radiation and the projection of ribbon-type cellulose nitrate film, regardless of California light source used in projection, shall be operated within a motion picture projection room complying with Section 409 of the California Building Code .

    306.2 Cellulose nitrate film storage. Storage of cellulose nitrate film shall be in accordance with NFPA 40.

  • CFC § 3.14 High relevance — show source text


    Title 19, Division 1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |301|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.14]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.19 (a-g)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |302|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |304|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.07(a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.07(b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.19 (b)(c)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |308.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.25 (a)(b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |308.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |310.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.32 (a)(b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.32 (d)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |310.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.32 (c)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |312 - 316|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.05 (b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |317|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |319 - 322|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |323|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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    PART II— GENERAL SAFETY PROVISIONS

    3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 3 provides general requirements for asphalt kettles, combustible waste material, ignition sources, motion picture projection rooms and film, open burning, recreational fires, portable outdoor fireplaces, open flames, powered industrial trucks and equipment, smoking, vacant premises, vehicle impact protection, fueled equipment, indoor displays, general storage, outdoor pallet storage, hazards to firefighters, landscaped roofs, laundry carts, mobile food preparation vehicles, additive manufacturing (3D printing) and artificial combustible vegetation. These are intended to improve premises safety for everyone, including construction workers, tenants, operations and maintenance personnel, and emergency response personnel.

    SECTION 301—GENERAL

    301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the occupancy and maintenance of all structures and premises for precautions against fire and the spread of fire and general requirements of fire safety.

  • CFC § 3108.16.1 High relevance — show source text

    3108.16.1 Duties. Before each performance or the start of such activity, standby personnel shall keep diligent watch for fires during the time such place is open to the public or such activity is being conducted and take prompt measures for extinguishment of fires that occur and assist in the evacuation of the public from the structure.

    3108.16.2 Crowd managers. There shall be trained crowd managers or trained crowd supervisors at a ratio of one crowd manager or supervisor for every 250 occupants, as approved.

    3108.17 Combustible vegetation. Combustible vegetation that could create a fire hazard shall be removed from the area occupied by a tent or membrane structure, and from areas within 30 feet (9144 mm) of such structures.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §326.(a)] Hazard Abatement.

    (a) All flammable vegetation within 50 feet of any tent shall be removed.

    3108.18 Combustible waste material. The floor surface inside tents or membrane structures and the grounds outside and within a 30-foot (9144 mm) perimeter shall be kept free from combustible waste and other combustible materials that could create a fire hazard. Such waste shall be stored in approved containers and removed from the premises not less than once a day during the period the structure is occupied by the public.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §326.(c)] Hazard Abatement.

    (c) Combustible waste shall not be permitted to accumulate on the grounds either inside or outside of tents. Such waste shall be stored in approved containers until removed from the premises.

    3108.19 Obstructions. Exits, aisles and passageways shall not be blocked or have their minimum clear width obstructed in any manner by ticket offices, turnstiles, concessions, chairs, equipment, animal chutes, poles or guy ropes, or anything whatsoever, nor shall they be blocked by persons for whom no seats are available.

    In occupancies having fixed seating, and on request of the owner or manager, the enforcing agency may permit modifications from the provisions of this code to accommodate seating for handicapped persons using mechanical aids such as, but not limited to, walkers and wheelchairs.

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    CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 32 – HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE

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

  • CFC § 3305.1 High relevance — show source text

    3305.1 Listed. Temporary heating devices shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance and use of temporary heating devices shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.

    3305.1.1 Oil-fired heaters. Oil-fired heaters shall comply with Section 605.

    3305.1.2 LP-gas heaters. Fuel supplies for liquefied-petroleum gas-fired heaters shall comply with Chapter 61 and the Interna- tional Fuel Gas Code .

    3305.1.3 Refueling. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or appliances shall be conducted in accordance with Section 5705. The equipment or appliance shall be allowed to cool prior to refueling.

    3305.1.4 Installation. Clearance to combustibles from temporary heating devices shall be maintained in accordance with the labeled equipment. When in operation, temporary heating devices shall be fixed in place and protected from damage, dislodgement or overturning in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

    3305.1.5 Supervision. The use of temporary heating devices shall be supervised and maintained only by competent personnel.

    3305.2 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited except in approved areas. Signs shall be posted in accordance with Section 310. In approved areas where smoking is permitted, approved ashtrays shall be provided in accordance with Section 310.

    3305.3 Burning of combustible debris, rubbish and waste. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall not be disposed of by burning on the site unless approved.

    3305.4 Open burning. Open burning shall comply with Section 307.

    3305.5 Cutting and welding. Welding, cutting, open torches and other hot work operations and equipment shall comply with Chapter 35.

    3305.6 Electrical. Temporary wiring for electrical power and lighting installations used in connection with the construction, alteration or demolition of buildings, structures, equipment or similar activities shall comply with the California Electrical Code .

    3305.7 Cooking. Cooking shall be prohibited except in approved designated cooking areas separated from combustible materials by a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm). Signs with a minimum letter height of 3 inches (76 mm) and a minimum brush stroke of [1] / 2 inch (13 mm) shall be posted in conspicuous locations in designated cooking areas and state:

    DESIGNATED COOKING AREA

    COOKING OUTSIDE OF A DESIGNATED

    COOKING AREA IS PROHIBITED

    3305.8 Portable generators. Portable generators used at construction and demolition sites shall comply with Section 1204.

    3305.9 Hot work operations. The site safety director shall ensure hot work operations and permit procedures are in accordance with Chapter 35.

    3305.10 Safeguarding roofing operations. Roofing operations utilizing heat-producing systems or other ignition sources shall be conducted in accordance with Sections 3305.10.1 and 3305.10.2 and Chapter 35.

    3305.10.1 Asphalt and tar kettles. Asphalt and tar kettles shall be operated in accordance with Section 303.

    3305.10.2 Fire extinguishers for roofing operations. Fire extinguishers shall comply with Section 906. There shall be not less than one multiple-purpose portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 3-A 40-B:C rating on the roof being covered or repaired.

    SECTION 3306—FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND DEVICES

  • CFC § 3-1 Medium relevance — show source text

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    PART II— GENERAL SAFETY PROVISIONS

    3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 3 provides general requirements for asphalt kettles, combustible waste material, ignition sources, motion picture projection rooms and film, open burning, recreational fires, portable outdoor fireplaces, open flames, powered industrial trucks and equipment, smoking, vacant premises, vehicle impact protection, fueled equipment, indoor displays, general storage, outdoor pallet storage, hazards to firefighters, landscaped roofs, laundry carts, mobile food preparation vehicles, additive manufacturing (3D printing) and artificial combustible vegetation. These are intended to improve premises safety for everyone, including construction workers, tenants, operations and maintenance personnel, and emergency response personnel.

    SECTION 301—GENERAL

    301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the occupancy and maintenance of all structures and premises for precautions against fire and the spread of fire and general requirements of fire safety.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.14] Fire Hazard.

    No person, including but not limited to the State and its political subdivisions, operating any occupancy subject to California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall permit any fire hazard, as defined in this article, to exist on premises under their control, or fail to take immediate action to abate a fire hazard when requested to do so by the enforcing agency.

    Note: “Fire Hazard” as used in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations means any condition, arrangement, or act which will increase, or may cause an increase of, the hazard or menace of fire to a greater degree than customarily recognized as normal by persons in the public service of preventing, suppressing or extinguishing fire; or which may obstruct, delay or hinder, or may become the cause of obstruction, delay or hindrance to the prevention, suppression, or extinguishment of fire.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.19(a) through (g)] Housekeeping.

    Every building or portion of a building governed by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall be maintained in a neat orderly manner, free from any condition that would create a fire or life hazard or a condition which would add to or contribute to the rapid spread of fire. Provisions shall be made for the proper storage and disposal of waste materials and rubbish consistent with the following:

    (a) All basements, cellars, floors, closets, attics, and other similar places not open to continuous observation shall be kept free from combustible litter and rubbish at all times.

    Note: Such storage may be permitted in these areas only when protected by approved automatic extinguishing systems or fire-resis- tive separations.

  • CFC § 5.33 Medium relevance — show source text

    (b) All combustible waste material and rubbish shall be stored in approved containers or shall be stored in a manner approved by the enforcing agency as being consistent with standard fire prevention practices until such waste material and rubbish is removed from the premises or otherwise disposed of in a proper manner. (1) Containers with a capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet (40 gallons) (0.15 m [3] ) shall comply with the provisions of California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 9, Section 304.3.

    (2) Wastebaskets and linen containers in Group I-2 and I-3 occupancies shall comply with the provisions of California Code of Regula- tions Title 24, Part 9, Section 808.

    (c) Approved self-closing metal containers or listed disposal containers by an approved testing or listing agency shall be provided and maintained in all rooms or locations where oily rags, oily waste, paint rags or similar materials subject to spontaneous ignition are used or are stored temporarily. Such containers shall be emptied daily.

    (d) Ashes shall not be placed in, on or near combustible material, but shall be placed in approved metal containers, until removed from the premises or otherwise properly disposed of.

    (e) No dry vegetation shall be permitted to exist within 20 feet of any building or occupancies subject to California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1 regulations.

    (f) Except when permitted by the enforcing agency, boiler rooms, mechanical rooms, transformer and switchgear vaults and electri- cal panel rooms, shall not be used for storage.

    (g) Electric motors, filters on heating equipment and grease hoods shall be checked periodically and kept clean and maintained in a safe operating condition.

    301.2 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.5 for the activities or uses regulated by Sections 306, 307, 308, 315, 320, 321 and 322 .

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    GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    SECTION 302—DEFINITIONS

    302.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

    3D PRINTER.

    ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING.

    BONFIRE.

    HI-BOY.

    HIGH-VOLTAGE TRANSMISSION LINE.

    OPEN BURNING.

    PORTABLE OUTDOOR FIREPLACE.

    POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCK.

    RECREATIONAL FIRE.

    SKY LANTERN.

    VALET TRASH COLLECTION.

    SECTION 303—ASPHALT KETTLES

    303.1 Transporting. Asphalt (tar) kettles shall not be transported over any highway, road or street when the heat source for the kettle is operating.

    Exception: Asphalt (tar) kettles in the process of patching road surfaces.

    303.2 Location. Asphalt (tar) kettles shall not be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of any combustible material, combustible building surface or any building opening and within a controlled area identified by the use of traffic cones, barriers or other approved means. Asphalt (tar) kettles and pots shall not be utilized inside or on the roof of a building or structure. Roofing kettles and operating asphalt (tar) kettles shall not block means of egress, gates, roadways or entrances.

Frequently asked questions

Do small campfires always require a permit?

No. Small recreational fires are regulated by § 307.4.2 (distance and attendance), not automatically by the permit clause, but local jurisdictions and air districts can prohibit or require permits for such fires; check with your local fire authority.

How far must I keep a burn pile from my house?

The general rule for open burning piles is 50 ft from any structure with exceptions for approved containers (15 ft) or very small piles (≤ 3 ft diameter × ≤ 2 ft high) at 25 ft; see § 307.4.

Where should I put ashes after cleaning my fireplace?

Hot ashes must not be put in combustible receptacles or within 10 ft of other combustibles or within 2 ft of openings to buildings. Use an approved metal or listed disposal container and follow the § 305.2 guidance.

What if my local air district says no open burning today?

If atmospheric conditions or local circumstances make open burning hazardous, the CFC prohibits open burning (§ 307.1.1). The fire code official also has authority to order extinguishment for hazardous or unpermitted open burning (§ 307.3).

Are valet trash programs allowed?

Valet trash collection is permitted only where approved; owners and service providers must follow rules and limitations established by the jurisdiction under § 304.1.1.

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Chapter 3 — General requirements (premises safety)

California Fire Code