CFC · California Fire Code
What must owners do for vacant premises and vehicle impact protection?
If a property is vacant, the owner must secure openings, remove combustible waste, preserve required fire separations and keep fire systems operable (unless a narrow, approved exception applies). Any exterior equipment or connections that vehicles could strike must be protected by steel, concrete‑filled posts meeting the dimensions in §312 or by an approved engineered barrier.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Owners must safeguard temporarily unoccupied or vacant premises — secure openings, remove combustible waste, maintain fire separations and keep required fire‑protection systems operable — per § 311 of the California Fire Code.
Where the code requires vehicle impact protection for equipment, walls, dispensers or fire connections, that protection must be by compliant posts or approved physical barriers sized and installed to the dimensions in § 312.
If a building is vacant, secure it, remove combustible trash, keep fire systems working (unless an approved exception applies), and protect any exterior equipment or connections from vehicle impact per the CFC.
Requirements in detail
Vacant premises — core duties (CFC § 311)
- Secure exterior and interior openings (board, lock, block or otherwise) to prevent unauthorized entry; the fire code official may placard or post barriers as needed — § 311.2.1.
- Maintain required fire protection systems in operable condition at all times unless an exception is approved — § 311.2.2.
- Maintain fire‑resistance‑rated partitions and protect openings, joints and penetrations that separate vacant tenant spaces from occupied areas — § 311.2.3.
- Remove all accumulations of combustible materials, flammable or combustible waste or rubbish and keep premises clear of waste or hazardous materials — § 311.3.
- If hazardous materials are present, comply with facility closure requirements in § 5001.6 (see § 311.4).
Note: Unsafe or abandoned properties may be declared unsafe and abated by demolition or rehabilitation under applicable codes — § 311.1.1.
Placarding and unoccupied tenant spaces
- Unsafe vacant/abandoned structures must be placarded with specified markers and sizes — see § 311.5 (placard locations, 24 in × 24 in, color and symbol rules are provided).
- Unoccupied tenant spaces in malls have additional rules (keep free of storage, separate with 0.5‑inch gypsum board to underside of ceiling, one key‑locked door, broom‑swept clean) — § 311.6.
Vehicle impact protection — what must be provided (CFC § 312)
- Vehicle impact protection required by the code must be provided either by posts that meet § 312.2 or by other approved barriers that meet § 312.3.
- Minimum post requirements (all must be met): steel not less than 4 inches diameter and concrete‑filled; spaced not more than 4 feet on center; set not less than 3 feet deep in a concrete footing of at least 15‑inch diameter; posts top at least 3 feet above grade; located not less than 3 feet from the protected object — § 312.2.
- Where a different barrier is used, it must be designed to resist or deflect anticipated vehicular impacts and be approved by the authority having jurisdiction — § 312.3.
Decision‑relevant dimensions and values (quick reference)
| What | Required value / threshold | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Post material | Steel, concrete‑filled | § 312.2.1 |
| Minimum post diameter | 4 inches (102 mm) | § 312.2.1 |
| Maximum spacing (on center) | 4 feet (1219 mm) | § 312.2.2 |
| Minimum embedment depth | 3 feet (914 mm) | § 312.2.3 |
| Minimum footing diameter | 15 inches (381 mm) | § 312.2.3 |
| Minimum post height above grade | 3 feet (914 mm) | § 312.2.4 |
| Minimum distance from protected object | 3 feet (914 mm) | § 312.2.5 |
| Placard size for unsafe vacant buildings | 24 in × 24 in | § 311.5.2 |
Exceptions & special cases
- Fire protection systems may be placed out of service only with approval and under narrow exceptions (for cleared premises, buildings not heated and exposed to freezing, or seasonally occupied buildings meeting limits such as fire areas ≤ 12,000 sq ft and no stored vehicles/hazmat) — see § 311.2.2 exceptions.
- For mall tenant spaces, limited access and separation rules apply (see § 311.6).
- The fire code official may require additional impact protection beyond § 312 where higher risk exists (for example fuel dispensers near traffic or multiple dispensers) — see fuel‑dispensing rules cross‑referencing § 312 (e.g., § 2306.7.3.1).
- Fire department connections (FDCs) that are subject to vehicle impact must have vehicle impact protection per § 912.4.3 (applies § 312).
- Energy Storage Systems and stationary fuel cell equipment that are subject to vehicle impact must be protected in accordance with § 312 (see § 1207.4.5 and § 1206.7 references).
If an owner wants an alternative barrier design (not the prescriptive posts), the alternative must be approved and sized for the anticipated impact scenario — § 312.3.
Common mistakes
- Turning off or impairing sprinkler or alarm systems without documented approval or without meeting the narrow exceptions in § 311.2.2.
- Failing to remove combustible waste from vacant spaces (owners must clear accumulations per § 311.3).
- Installing “decorative” bollards or barriers that do not meet the material, embedment, spacing or footing requirements (confusing visual deterrents with code‑compliant impact protection) — the prescriptive post specs are in § 312.2.
- Locating posts too close to the protected object or too shallow — keep 3 ft embedment, 3 ft clearance from the protected object and 15‑inch footing as required in § 312.2.
- Not placarding structures determined unsafe as required by § 311.5 (placard size, location and markings are specified).
Worked example — storefront with an exterior generator and an FDC
Scenario: A single‑story retail storefront becomes vacant. Outside, an emergency generator and the building’s FDC sit within 6 feet of a public alley where vehicles could strike them.
What the owner must do (apply the CFC):
- Secure openings and remove combustible trash inside the vacant unit; maintain or obtain approval to temporarily place systems out of service only under the exceptions in § 311.2.2.
- Because the FDC and generator are subject to vehicular impact, provide impact protection per § 312. The simple prescriptive option is posts per § 312.2: install steel, concrete‑filled posts 4 in diameter, spaced no more than 4 ft on center, each set 3 ft deep in a concrete footing 15 in diameter, with posts projecting 3 ft above grade and located at least 3 ft from the generator and FDC.
- If site geometry prevents meeting those dimensions, submit an engineered alternative barrier design demonstrating resistance to the anticipated impact scenario and obtain approval per § 312.3.
- If the building has been declared unsafe, ensure placards are applied per § 311.5 (front visible from street, additional placards at entrances).
Related provisions
- § 311.2 — Safeguarding vacant premises (security, fire protection, separation).
- § 311.3 — Removal of combustibles from vacant buildings.
- § 311.5 — Placarding of unsafe/abandoned structures (location, size, symbols).
- § 311.6 — Unoccupied tenant spaces in mall buildings (special tenant rules).
- § 312.2 — Prescriptive guard‑post requirements for vehicle impact protection.
- § 312.3 — Acceptable alternative/engineered barriers for vehicle impact protection.
- § 912.4.3 — Physical protection for fire department connections (references § 312).
- § 1207.4.5 — Vehicle impact protection required where Energy Storage Systems (ESS) are subject to vehicle impact (references § 312).
- § 2306.7.3.1 — Dispenser location/impact protection cross‑references § 312 for fuel dispensers.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 311.5.1 High relevance — show source text
311.5.1 Placard location. Placards shall be applied on the front of the structure and be visible from the street. Additional placards shall be applied to the side of each entrance to the structure and on penthouses.
311.5.2 Placard size and color. Placards shall be 24 inches by 24 inches (610 mm by 610 mm) minimum in size with a red background, white reflective stripes and a white reflective border. The stripes and border shall have a 2-inch (51 mm) minimum stroke.
311.5.3 Placard date. Placards shall bear the date of their application to the building and the date of the most recent inspection.
311.5.4 Placard symbols. The design of the placards shall use the following symbols:
This symbol shall mean that the structure had normal structural conditions at the time of marking.
This symbol shall mean that structural or interior hazards exist and interior firefighting or rescue operations should be conducted with extreme caution.
This symbol shall mean that structural or interior hazards exist to a degree that consideration should be given to limit firefighting to exterior operations only, with entry only occurring for known life hazards.
Vacant marker hazard identification symbols: The following symbols shall be used to designate known hazards on the vacant building marker. They shall be placed directly above the symbol. 4.1. R/O—Roof open. 4.2. S/M—Stairs, steps and landing missing. 4.3. F/E—Avoid fire escapes.
4.4. H/F—Holes in floor.
311.5.5 Informational use. The use of these symbols shall be informational only and shall not in any way limit the discretion of the on-scene incident commander.
311.6 Unoccupied tenant spaces in mall buildings. Unoccupied tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings shall be:
- Kept free from the storage of any materials.
- Separated from the remainder of the building by partitions of not less than 0.5-inch-thick (12.7 mm) gypsum board or an approved equivalent to the underside of the ceiling of the adjoining tenant spaces.
- Without doors or other access openings other than one door that shall be kept key locked in the closed position except during that time when opened for inspection.
- Kept free from combustible waste and be broomswept clean.
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GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 312—VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
312.1 General. Vehicle impact protection required by this code shall be provided by posts that comply with Section 312.2 or by other approved physical barriers that comply with Section 312.3.
312.2 Posts. Guard posts shall comply with all of the following requirements:
- Constructed of steel not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter and concrete filled.
- Spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) between posts on center.
- Set not less than 3 feet (914 mm) deep in a concrete footing of not less than a 15-inch (381 mm) diameter.
- Set with the top of the posts not less than 3 feet (914 mm) above ground.
- Located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the protected object.
CFC § 311.6 High relevance — show source text
311.6 Unoccupied tenant spaces in mall buildings. Unoccupied tenant spaces in covered and open mall buildings shall be:
- Kept free from the storage of any materials.
- Separated from the remainder of the building by partitions of not less than 0.5-inch-thick (12.7 mm) gypsum board or an approved equivalent to the underside of the ceiling of the adjoining tenant spaces.
- Without doors or other access openings other than one door that shall be kept key locked in the closed position except during that time when opened for inspection.
- Kept free from combustible waste and be broomswept clean.
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GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 312—VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
312.1 General. Vehicle impact protection required by this code shall be provided by posts that comply with Section 312.2 or by other approved physical barriers that comply with Section 312.3.
312.2 Posts. Guard posts shall comply with all of the following requirements:
- Constructed of steel not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter and concrete filled.
- Spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) between posts on center.
- Set not less than 3 feet (914 mm) deep in a concrete footing of not less than a 15-inch (381 mm) diameter.
- Set with the top of the posts not less than 3 feet (914 mm) above ground.
- Located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the protected object.
312.3 Other barriers. Barriers, other than posts specified in Section 312.2, that are designed to resist, deflect or visually deter vehicular impact commensurate with an anticipated impact scenario shall be permitted where approved.
SECTION 313—FUELED EQUIPMENT
313.1 General. Fueled equipment including, but not limited to, motorcycles, mopeds, lawn-care equipment and portable generators shall not be stored, operated or repaired within a building.
Exceptions:
- Buildings or rooms constructed for such use in accordance with the California Building Code .
- Where allowed by Section 314.
- Storage of equipment utilized for maintenance purposes is allowed in approved locations where the aggregate fuel capacity of the stored equipment does not exceed 10 gallons (38 L) and the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
313.1.1 Removal. The fire code official is authorized to require removal of fueled equipment from locations where the presence of such equipment is determined by the fire code official to be hazardous.
313.2 Group R occupancies. Vehicles powered by flammable liquids, Class II combustible liquids or compressed flammable gases shall not be stored within the living space of Group R buildings.
SECTION 314—INDOOR DISPLAYS
314.1 General. Indoor displays constructed within any occupancy shall comply with Sections 314.2 through 314.4.
314.2 Fixtures and displays. Fixtures and displays of goods for sale to the public shall be arranged so as to maintain free, immediate and unobstructed access to exits as required by Chapter 10.
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 § 1207.4.2 High relevance — show source text
1207.4.2 Working clearances. Access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment in accordance with the California Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s instructions.
1207.4.3 Fire-resistance-rated separations. Rooms and other indoor areas containing ESS shall be separated from other areas of the building in accordance with Section 1207.7.4. ESS shall be permitted to be in the same room with the equipment they support.
1207.4.4 Seismic and structural design. Stationary ESS shall comply with the seismic design requirements in Chapter 16 of the California Building Code, and shall not exceed the floor loading limitation of the building.
1207.4.5 Vehicle impact protection. Where ESS are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, including forklifts, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312.
1207.4.6 Combustible storage. Combustible materials shall not be stored in ESS rooms, areas or walk-in units. Combustible materials in occupied work centers covered by Section 1207.4.10 shall be stored at least 3 feet (914 mm) from ESS cabinets.
1207.4.7 Toxic and highly toxic gases. ESS that have the potential to release toxic and highly toxic gas during charging, discharging and normal use conditions shall be provided with a hazardous exhaust system in accordance with Chapter 5 of the California Mechanical Code .
1207.4.8 Signage. Approved signs shall be provided on or adjacent to all entry doors for ESS rooms or areas and on enclosures of ESS cabinets and walk-in units located outdoors, on rooftops or in open parking garages. Signs designed to meet both the requirements of this section and the California Electrical Code shall be permitted. The signage shall include the following or equivalent:
“ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM,” “BATTERY STORAGE SYSTEM,” “CAPACITOR ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM” or the equivalent.
The identification of the electrochemical ESS technology present.
“ENERGIZED ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS.”
Where water-reactive electrochemical ESS are present, the signage shall include “APPLY NO WATER.”
Current contact information, including phone number, for personnel authorized to service the equipment and for fire mitigation personnel required by Section 1207.1.8.1.
Exception: Existing electrochemical ESS shall be permitted to include the signage required at the time they were installed. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
1207.4.9 Security of installations. Rooms, areas and walk-in units in which electrochemical ESS are located shall be secured against unauthorized entry and safeguarded in an approved manner. Security barriers, fences, landscaping and other enclosures
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ENERGY SYSTEMS
shall not inhibit the required air flow to or exhaust from the electrochemical ESS and its components. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
CFC § 1207.3.8 Medium relevance — show source text
(Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
1207.3.8 Replacements. Replacements of ESS shall be considered new ESS installations and shall comply with the provisions of Section 1207 as applicable to new ESS. The ESS being replaced shall be decommissioned in accordance with Section 1207.2.3. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
1207.3.9 Reused and repurposed equipment. Equipment and materials shall only be reused or reinstalled as permitted in Section 104.9.1. Storage batteries previously used in other applications, such as electric vehicle propulsion, shall not be reused in applications regulated by Chapter 12 unless approved by the fire code official and unless the equipment is refurbished by a battery refurbishing company approved in accordance with UL 1974. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
1207.4 General installations requirements. Stationary and mobile ESS shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1207.4.1 through 1207.4.12.
1207.4.1 Electrical disconnects. Where the ESS disconnecting means is not within sight of the main electrical service disconnecting means, placards or directories shall be installed at the location of the main electrical service disconnecting means indicating the location of stationary storage battery system disconnecting means in accordance with the California Electrical Code .
Exception: Electrical disconnects for lead-acid and nickel-cadmium battery systems at facilities under the exclusive control of communications utilities and operating at less than 50 VAC and 60 VDC shall be permitted to have electrical disconnects signage in accordance with NFPA 76.
1207.4.2 Working clearances. Access and working space shall be provided and maintained about all electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation and maintenance of such equipment in accordance with the California Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s instructions.
1207.4.3 Fire-resistance-rated separations. Rooms and other indoor areas containing ESS shall be separated from other areas of the building in accordance with Section 1207.7.4. ESS shall be permitted to be in the same room with the equipment they support.
1207.4.4 Seismic and structural design. Stationary ESS shall comply with the seismic design requirements in Chapter 16 of the California Building Code, and shall not exceed the floor loading limitation of the building.
1207.4.5 Vehicle impact protection. Where ESS are subject to impact by a motor vehicle, including forklifts, vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312.
1207.4.6 Combustible storage. Combustible materials shall not be stored in ESS rooms, areas or walk-in units. Combustible materials in occupied work centers covered by Section 1207.4.10 shall be stored at least 3 feet (914 mm) from ESS cabinets.
1207.4.7 Toxic and highly toxic gases. ESS that have the potential to release toxic and highly toxic gas during charging, discharging and normal use conditions shall be provided with a hazardous exhaust system in accordance with Chapter 5 of the California Mechanical Code .
CFC § 2306.8.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Identification Alcohol-blended fuel-dispensing facilities 2306.8.4 Building (address) 505.1 Elevator lobby 1023.10 Exit discharge 1023.8, 1104.21 Fire protection equipment 509.1, 905.7.1
Floor level 1023.9, 1032.9 Hazardous materials 5003.5, 5503.4, 5703.5.4, 6005.4.3 Hot work hazards 3503.6
Streets and roads 505.2 Tenant spaces in covered malls 403.10.1.5
Utilities 509.1.1
Vacant premises 311.5.4 Ignition Sources 305, 3703.7 Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) 202, 608.13.5, 608.14, 916.8, 2703.13.2, 5303.16.10, 6004.2.2.10,
6004.2.2.7.2 Impact Protection, Vehicle 312, 6107.4,
6109.13
Impairment Coordinator 202, 901.7.1, 901.7.4, 901.7.5, 901.7.6 Incinerators 605.7, 1103.4.10 Room egress 1006.2.2.1 Incompatible Materials 202, 2704.3.3, 5003.10.3.6, 5003.9.8, 5004.2.2.2, 5004.4, 5005.1.1, 5303.7.11.1, 5704.2.6, 6404.1.4 Incompatible Surfaces 6306.3.6.2 Indoor Trade Shows Appendix N Covered booths N106 Display and storage of hazardous and combustible materials N107
Interior finish and decorative materials
N104 Means of egress N108 Multiple-level booths N105 Public safety for events N103 Industrial Ovens Chapter 30 Fire protection 3006
Hangars, Aircraft (see Aircraft-Related Occupancies, Fire Protection for) Hangers, Fire Extinguisher 906.7 Hardening Tanks 2405.9 Hardware, Exit Door 1010.2 Hardware, Panic 1010.2.8 Hay Combustible fiber 202, 3703.4 Combustible waste 304.1.2
CFC § 903.3.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
AUTOMATIC FLUSH BOLTS AND CONSTANT LATCHING
BOLTS ON THE INACTIVE LEAF OF A PAIR OF DOORS|PERMITTED USES OF MANUAL BOLTS,
AUTOMATIC FLUSH BOLTS AND CONSTANT LATCHING
BOLTS ON THE INACTIVE LEAF OF A PAIR OF DOORS| |APPLICATION WITH A PAIR OF DOORS WITH AN ACTIVE LEAF
AND AN INACTIVE LEAF|THE PAIR OF
DOORS IS
REQUIRED TO
COMPLY WITH
SECTION 716|Surface- or flush-
mounted manual bolts|Automatic
flush bolts**|Constant
latching bolts| |Group B, F or S occupancies with occupant load less than 50.|No|P|P|P| |Group B, F or S occupancies with occupant load less than 50.|Yes|NP|NPb|P| |Group B, F or S occupancies where the building is equipped
with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 and the inactive leaf is not needed to meet
egress capacity requirements.|No|P|P|P| |Group B, F or S occupancies where the building is equipped
with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1 and the inactive leaf is not needed to meet
egress capacity requirements.|Yes|NP|NPb|P| |Group I-2 patient care and sleeping rooms where inactive leaf
is not needed to meet egress capacity requirements.|No|NP|NPb|P| |Group I-2 patient care and sleeping rooms where inactive leaf
is not needed to meet egress capacity requirements.|Yes|NP|NPb|P| |Any occupancy where panic hardware is not required, egress
doors are used in pairs, and where both leaves are required to
meet egress capacity requirements.|No|NP|P|NP| |Any occupancy where panic hardware is not required, egress
doors are used in pairs, and where both leaves are required to
meet egress capacity requirements.|Yes|NP|NPb|NP| |Storage or equipment rooms where the inactive leaf is not
needed to meet egress capacity requirements.|No|Pa|P|P| |Storage or equipment rooms where the inactive leaf is not
needed to meet egress capacity requirements.|Yes|Pa|P|P| |P = Permitted. NP = Not permitted.
a. Not permitted on corridor doors in Group I-2 occupancies where corridor doors are required to be positive latching.
b. Permitted where both doors are self closing or automatic closing, and are provided with a coordinator that causes the inactive leaf to be closed prior to the active leaf.|P = Permitted. NP = Not permitted.
a. Not permitted on corridor doors in Group I-2 occupancies where corridor doors are required to be positive latching.
b. Permitted where both doors are self closing or automatic closing, and are provided with a coordinator that causes the inactive leaf to be closed prior to the active leaf.|P = Permitted. NP = Not permitted.
a. Not permitted on corridor doors in Group I-2 occupancies where corridor doors are required to be positive latching.
b.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 § 3.14 Medium 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 3-1
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3-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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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 § 1011.14 Medium relevance — show source text
Hand Rub, Alcohol-based (see Alcohol-Based Hand Rub) Handrail 202, 1014 Alternating tread devices 1011.14 Assembly aisles 1030.16 Construction 1014.5, 1014.6, 1014.7 Extension 1014.7 Graspability 1014.4 Guards 1015.3 Height 1014.2 Ramps 1012.8 Stairs 1011.11
INDEX-8 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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INDEX
Permit 105.5.25
Hot Work Area
Defined 202 Hot Work Equipment Defined 202
Hot Work Permits
Defined 202
Hot Work Program Defined 202 HPM Facility (see Semiconductor Fabrication Facility)
HPM Room (see Semiconductor Fabrication Facility) Hybrid Fire Extinguishing System (see Fire Protection System) Hydrants (see Fire Hydrant) Hydrogen 5301.1, 5501.1, 5801.1, 5806, 5807, 5808, 5809 Hydrogen fuel gas room 202, 5808 Indoor vehicle display 314.4 Motor fuel-dispensing facilities 2309 On-demand mobile fueling 202, 5809 Repair garage 2311.8, 2311.8.11, 2311.8.2, 2311.8.8, 2311.8.9 Hyperbaric Facilities 609
Identification Alcohol-blended fuel-dispensing facilities 2306.8.4 Building (address) 505.1 Elevator lobby 1023.10 Exit discharge 1023.8, 1104.21 Fire protection equipment 509.1, 905.7.1
Floor level 1023.9, 1032.9 Hazardous materials 5003.5, 5503.4, 5703.5.4, 6005.4.3 Hot work hazards 3503.6
Streets and roads 505.2 Tenant spaces in covered malls 403.10.1.5
Utilities 509.1.1
Vacant premises 311.5.4 Ignition Sources 305, 3703.7 Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) 202, 608.13.5, 608.14, 916.8, 2703.13.2, 5303.16.10, 6004.2.2.10,
6004.2.2.7.2 Impact Protection, Vehicle 312, 6107.4,
6109.13
CFC § 904.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(c)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(c) Records of all testing and maintenance shall be retained on the premises by the building or system owner for a period of five years after the next required test or maintenance.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(j)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(j) It is the responsibility of the contractor, company or licensee to provide a written report of the test and maintenance results to the building owner and the local fire authority having jurisdiction at the completion of the testing and maintenance.
901.6.3.1 Records information. Initial records shall include the name of the installation contractor, type of components installed, manufacturer of the components, location and number of components installed per floor. Records shall include the manufacturers’ operation and maintenance instruction manuals. Such records shall be maintained for the life of the installation.
901.7 Systems out of service. Where a required fire protection system is out of service, the fire department and the fire code official shall be notified immediately and, where required by the fire code official, the building shall be either evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all occupants left unprotected by the shutdown until the fire protection system has been returned to service.
Where utilized, fire watches shall be provided with not less than one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires.
Exception: Facilities with an approved notification and impairment management program. The notification and impairment program for water-based fire protection systems shall comply with California NFPA 25.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.1(c)] Inspection Requirements.
(c) The owner or occupant shall promptly correct or repair deficiencies, damaged parts or impairments found while performing the inspection, test and maintenance requirements of this standard. Recalled products shall be replaced or remedied. Such replacement or remedial product shall be installed in accordance with the listing requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions and the appropri- ate NFPA installation standards. A recalled product is a product subject to a statute or administrative regulation specifically requiring the manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer of a product, or any combination of such entities, to recall the product, or a product voluntarily recalled by a combination of such entities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(d)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
(d) The building or system owner shall ensure immediate correction of any deficiencies noted during the service. A tag or label shall be affixed to a system only after all deficiencies have been corrected. The owner or occupant shall promptly correct or repair deficien- cies, damaged parts or impairments found while performing the inspection, test and maintenance requirements of this standard. Recalled products shall be replaced or remedied. Such replacement or remedial product shall be installed in accordance with the list- ing requirements, the manufacturer’s instructions and the appropriate NFPA installation standards. A recalled product is a product subject to a statute or administrative regulation specifically requiring the manufacturer, importer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer of a product, or any combination of such entities, to recall the product, or a product voluntarily recalled by a combination of such entities.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §904.2(e)] Testing and Maintenance Requirements.
CFC § 5303.7.11 Medium relevance — show source text
Tube Trailers 5303.7.11
Defined 202
Turnstiles 1010
Unauthorized Discharge 5003.3.1, 5706.2.8 Defined 202 Underground Buildings 403.10.3, 905.3.4, 907.2.18, 907.2.19, 914.5, Table 1103.1,
1203.2.19
Unlawful Acts 113.1 Unoccupied Tenant Space 311.6 Unsafe Buildings (see Building) Unsafe Heating Appliances 605.2 Unsafe Structures or Equipment 115 Unstable (Reactive) Material Chapter 66 Defined 202 Indoor storage 6604.1 Outdoor storage 6604.2 Requirements 6603 Use 6605.1
Unvented Heaters 4103.1
Unwanted Fire
Defined 202
Ignitions 305.5 Reporting 401.3, 3310 Upholstered Furniture (see Furniture, Upholstered) Use, Change of (see Change of Use) Utility Identification 509.1.1
Vacant Premises 311
Abandoned 311.1.1
Fire protection systems 311.2.2 Placarding 311.5 Removal of hazardous materials 311.4 Safeguarding 311.2 Tenant spaces 311.1.2, 311.6, 403.10.1.6
Waste removal 311.3
Valet Trash Collection 202, 304.1.1, Appendix O Vapor Area, Flammable Defined 202
INDEX-16 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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INDEX
Quantities 2705.2.2, Table 2705.2.2,
2705.2.3.4
Ventilation 2703.14.1
Zone
Fire alarm 907.6.4 Notification 202, 907.5.2.1 Smoke control 909.18.7, 909.6, 909.7,
909.8.1 Zoning Indicator Panel 907.6.4.1
Vapor Balance System 2306.7.9.1 Vapor-Processing System 2306.7.9.2, 5706.8
Vapor-Recovery System 2306.7.9, 5706.8 Vegetative Roof 202, 317 Vehicle Impact Protection (see Impact Protection, Vehicle) Vehicles 314.4 Compressed natural gas powered 2308
Gas-fueled 3108.14
Impact protection 312 Indoor display 314.4 Industrial 6103.2.2 Liquid-fueled 3108.14 LP-gas-powered 2307 Overfilling 2307.7 Storage of, in buildings 313.2 Tank 2909.3, 5704.2.2, 5706.5.1.15, 5706.5.1.16, 5706.6 Ventilation
Frequently asked questions
Do I always have to keep sprinklers and alarms active in a vacant building?
Yes — fire protection systems must be maintained in an operable condition unless an approved exception under § 311.2.2 applies (e.g., cleared of combustible contents or approved seasonal/freeze exceptions).
Can I use cheap, shallow bollards to protect an outside generator?
No — the code requires specific minimums for prescriptive posts (4 in steel, 3 ft embed, 15 in footing, spacing ≤ 4 ft) per § 312.2. Otherwise submit an engineered alternative for approval under § 312.3.
Who can approve an alternative barrier design?
The authority having jurisdiction (fire code official) must approve alternative barrier designs that differ from the prescriptive post specifications in § 312.
If my vacant building is placarded, does that stop firefighters from entering?
No — placard symbols are informational only and do not limit the on‑scene incident commander’s discretion; they are intended to communicate known hazards per § 311.5.5.
Are mall tenant spaces treated differently when vacant?
Yes — unoccupied tenant spaces in malls must be free of storage, partitioned with 0.5‑inch gypsum board to the ceiling, have only one key‑locked door, and be broom‑swept clean per § 311.6.
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
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