CFC · California Fire Code
Requirements for powered industrial trucks and indoor displays
Summary: The California Fire Code requires approved battery chargers, ventilation, **3‑ft** clearance from combustibles and a **4‑A:20‑B:C** extinguisher near chargers, prohibits charging in public areas, restricts indoor refueling, mandates that displays not block exits or contain highly combustible goods near exits, and limits fuel amounts for vehicles displayed indoors (one‑quarter tank or specified gallon/volume limits).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
- Powered industrial trucks (including floor scrubbers/buffers) must be operated and maintained per § 309.1. Battery charging must be in approved chargers, with ventilation, clearance from combustibles, and a nearby extinguisher; refueling of liquid-, LP- or hydrogen-fueled trucks is prohibited indoors except in approved areas. § 309.1–309.6 are the controlling powered‑truck provisions.
- Indoor displays must preserve unobstructed exit access, prohibit highly combustible goods in exit routes or within 5 feet of entrances to exits, and restrict indoor placement of vehicles to meet battery/engine and fuel‑quantity controls. § 314.1–314.4 are the controlling indoor‑display provisions.
The single most important rule: keep battery charging safe and separate (approved chargers, ventilation, no combustibles within 3 ft, and a 4‑A:20‑B:C extinguisher within 20 ft) and never block exit access with displays or highly combustible goods. § 309.3–309.5, § 314.2–314.3.
Requirements in detail
Powered industrial trucks — what to check
- Scope: All powered industrial trucks and similar equipment (e.g., scrubbers, buffers) must be operated/maintained per § 309.1.
- Hazardous (classified) locations: If a truck is used in a hazardous/classified electrical area it must be listed and labeled for that environment (NFPA 505), per § 309.2.
- Battery chargers: Must be approved type; combustible storage must be kept at least 3 feet away; charging not allowed in areas open to the public — § 309.3.
- Ventilation: Battery‑charging areas require approved ventilation to prevent accumulation of flammable gases — § 309.4.
- Fire extinguisher: A portable extinguisher rated minimum 4‑A:20‑B:C must be provided within 20 ft of the charger — § 309.5.
- Refueling and repairs: Refueling of liquid‑fuel, LP‑gas or hydrogen trucks must be outdoors or in approved areas; fueling operations and refueling equipment must comply with applicable chapters (Ch. 23, 57, 61). Repairs have separate controls — § 309.6–309.7.
Indoor displays — what to check
- Exit access: Fixtures/displays must preserve free, immediate, unobstructed access to exits per Chapter 10 — § 314.2.
- Highly combustible goods: Display of fireworks, flammable/combustible liquids, liquefied flammable gases, oxidizers, pyroxylin plastics, agricultural goods etc., is prohibited in main exit access aisles, corridors, malls, or within 5 feet of entrances to exits and exterior exit doors where such a fire would rapidly prevent egress — § 314.3.
- Vehicles/boats/aircraft indoors: Allowed only when all of the following are met: engine starting disabled or battery disconnected; fuel in tanks not more than specified quantity (one‑quarter tank OR a stated gallon/volume limit, whichever is less); fill openings closed and sealed; no fueling/defueling inside — § 314.4.
Quick decision table (key dimensions/values)
| Decision factor | Requirement / Value | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Combustible storage distance from battery charger | Not less than 3 ft (915 mm) | § 309.3 |
| Extinguisher at battery‑charging area | Minimum 4‑A:20‑B:C within 20 ft of charger | § 309.5 |
| Battery‑charging ventilation | Ventilation in an approved manner to prevent flammable gas accumulation | § 309.4 |
| Battery charging in public areas | Prohibited | § 309.3 |
| Placement of highly combustible goods relative to exits | Not allowed in exit aisles/corridors/malls or within 5 ft of entrances to exits/exterior exit doors | § 314.3 |
| Indoor vehicle fuel limit — gas/diesel (Class I–III) | Not exceed one‑quarter tank or 5 gal (19 L), whichever is less | § 314.4 2.1 |
| Indoor vehicle fuel limit — LP‑gas | Not exceed one‑quarter tank or 6.6 gal (25 L), whichever is less | § 314.4 2.2 |
| Indoor vehicle fuel limit — CNG | Not exceed one‑quarter tank or 630 cu ft (17.8 m³), whichever is less | § 314.4 2.3 |
| Indoor vehicle fuel limit — Hydrogen | Not exceed one‑quarter tank or 2,000 cu ft (57 m³), whichever is less | § 314.4 2.4 |
| Vehicle controls when displayed indoors | Engine start disabled or ignition batteries disconnected (unless required connected for safety features) | § 314.4 1 |
Exceptions & special cases
- The general prohibition on storing fueled equipment indoors (§ 313.1) has exceptions: rooms constructed for such use per the California Building Code; allowances under § 314 for displays; and limited maintenance-storage where aggregate fuel ≤ 10 gallons and the building is fully sprinklered per § 313.1. Use these exceptions only when the specific criteria in the code are met.
- For hazardous/classified locations, powered trucks must be listed/labeled for that environment — consult § 309.2 and NFPA 505 for required equipment listing.
- Refilling or special hydrogen/metal‑hydride systems: other chapters (e.g., § 5807 for metal‑hydride) reference that refilling of hydrogen systems serving industrial trucks must comply with § 309. If hydrogen systems are present, follow those cross‑references.
If a specific administrative approval, variance or more detailed installation practice is needed (for example ventilation rates for charger rooms or engineered separation/barriers for vehicle displays), the code refers those details to "approved" methods or other chapters — the file excerpts do not give prescriptive ventilation rates or all test/listing criteria, so consult the authority having jurisdiction and the referenced standards (e.g., NFPA 505) for those specifics.
Common mistakes
- Assuming any portable extinguisher is acceptable — the code requires a 4‑A:20‑B:C at battery chargers (§ 309.5).
- Charging batteries in customer/public areas or with combustibles closer than 3 ft — both are expressly restricted (§ 309.3, § 309.4).
- Displaying highly combustible goods in exit access aisles or within 5 ft of exits — this blocks egress and is prohibited (§ 314.3).
- Misreading the vehicle fuel limits: the code uses the lesser of one‑quarter tank or the stated gallon/volume limit (e.g., 5 gal for liquid fuels) — calculate per the vehicle's actual tank capacity (§ 314.4 2.1–2.4).
- Forgetting to disable engine start or disconnect battery when required for indoor displays — both are required unless AHJ allows battery connection for safety features (§ 314.4 1).
Worked example — showroom boat display
Scenario: A retail showroom wants to display a gasoline‑powered boat indoors. The boat has a 10‑gallon fuel tank.
Step 1 — engine/battery: Disable engine starting or disconnect ignition battery (unless required to stay connected for safety systems) per § 314.4 1.
Step 2 — fuel limit: Compute one‑quarter tank = 10 gal × 0.25 = 2.5 gal. The code limit for liquid fuels is one‑quarter tank OR 5 gal, whichever is less. The lesser value is 2.5 gal, so the boat may be indoors only if the tank contains ≤ 2.5 gal. § 314.4 2.1.
Step 3 — secure tank/fill openings: Ensure fill openings are closed and sealed to prevent tampering per § 314.4 3.
Step 4 — no fueling inside: Do not fuel or defuel the boat inside the building — fueling must be performed outside or in approved areas per § 314.4 4 and related fueling rules in § 309.6 and Chapters 23/57/61 as applicable.
If the showroom wanted to instead charge a fleet of electric floor scrubbers, follow battery charging rules: approved chargers, ventilation, keep combustibles 3 ft away and keep a 4‑A:20‑B:C extinguisher within 20 ft as required by § 309.3–309.5.
Related provisions (code sections)
- § 309.1–309.7 — Powered industrial trucks: use, battery charging, ventilation, extinguishers, refueling and repairs.
- § 312.1–312.3 — Vehicle impact protection (guard posts / barriers) — relevant when vehicles or displays could be struck.
- § 313.1 — Fueled equipment — general prohibition on indoor storage, with exceptions (cross‑ref to § 314).
- § 314.1–314.4 — Indoor displays: fixtures/displays, highly combustible goods, and vehicle display controls/fuel limits.
- § 315 — General storage (controls on storage that may interact with display/charging areas).
- § 5807 / 5808 — Hydrogen / metal‑hydride storage and refilling cross‑references; refilling of hydrogen systems serving industrial trucks must comply with § 309.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
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 § 1207.6.1 High relevance — show source text
Battery systems 1207.6.1 Defined 202 Dry cleaning 2104.2.1, 2105.2.3, 2106.3.3 Electrostatic equipment 2406.7 Exhaust 2703.14, 2703.15.2 Floor surfacing 2410.5 Hazardous materials 5003.8.4.2, 5003.8.5.2, 5003.8.6.2, 5005.2.1.1,
5005.2.2.1 Indoor dispensing 5005.1.9 Indoor storage areas 5004.3 Industrial ovens 3003.1
Powered industrial trucks 309.4
Process structures 2905.5 Refrigeration machinery room 608.14 Reinforced plastics manufacturing 2409.6
Repair garages 2311.4.3, 2311.8.8 Spray finishing 2404.9, 2404.9.4, 2406.7
Vents, Smoke and Heat (see Smoke and Heat Vents) Violation Penalties 113.4
Violations 113 Visible Alarm Notification Appliance 202,
907.5.2.3
Warehouse
Aerosol 5102.1, 5104.3, Table 5104.3.2, 5104.4 Liquid 5104.6, Table 5704.3.6(2), Table 5704.3.6.3(3), 5704.3.8,
5704.3.8.5 Warning Signs Compressed gas vaults 5303.16.13 Explosives 5604.10.5, 5605.8.2 Fire-extinguishing systems 904.3.4 Flammable and combustible liquid vaults 5704.2.8.15 Flammable finish operations 2403.2.7 Flammable liquids storage 5703.5 Fruit and crop ripening 2507 Fuel dispensing 2305.6 Fumigation and insecticidal fogging 2603.3.1 Hazard communication (haz-mat) 407.3, 5003.5
Oxygen in home health care 6306.6 Shaftways 316.2.1, 316.2.2 Warrants 104.4.1 Waste Materials, Combustible 105.5.53, 304, 3304.1 Waste Oil 605.1.3, 2311.2.2 Wastebaskets and Waste Containers
304.3, 304.3.6, 808.1, 3304.1.3 Watch, Fire (see Fire Watch) Water Mist System (see Automatic Water Mist System) Water Supply Buildings under construction or demolition, standpipes 3314 Fire protection 507, 3313 Required 507.1 Secondary for high-rise 914.3.2 Sprinklers 903.3.5 Standpipes 3314 Test 507.4 Water-Reactive Material Chapter 67 Defined 202 Indoor storage 6704.1 Outdoor storage 6704.2 Requirements 6703 Use 6705
CFC § 5704.3.1 High relevance — show source text
Defined 202 Design, construction and capacity 5704.3.1
Empty 5704.3.3.4 Flammable liquids 2306.2.5 Flow rate 6004.2.2.7.5, Table 6004.2.2.7.5 Indoor storage 5704.3.3 Local exhaust 6004.2.2.4, 6004.3.2.3 Outdoor storage 5704.4, Table 5704.4, 6004.3.4
Piles 5704.3.3.10, 5704.3.7.2.3 Posting Evacuation diagrams (Group R-1) 403.9.1.1 Explosives and pyrotechnic amounts 5605.6.9 No smoking signs 310.3 Occupant load 1004.3, 5605.6.9 Permits 105.3.5
Tenant identification 403.10.1.5 Powder Coating 2406 Powered Industrial Trucks 309 Battery charging 309.2 Defined 202 Fire extinguishers 309.5 Refueling 309.6 Repairs 309.7
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INDEX
Relocatable Power Taps 202, 603.5.2 Remote Emergency Shutoff Device 202 Use of 5706.5.4.5 Remote Solvent Reservoir 202, 5705.3.6.2.3 Remotely Located, Manually Activated Shutdown Control 202, 2309.5.3,
6403.1.1.1 Repair Garages 2311 Gas detection system 2311.8.9 LP-gas-fueled vehicles 6111.3 Motor vehicle repair booths 2311.8.4 Permit 105.5.47 Sources of ignition 2311.3 Sprinklers required 903.2.9.1 Ventilation 2311.4.3 Repairs 105.1.5 Repairs, Emergency (see Emergency Repairs) Reporting Aviation facilities fire extinguisher use 2005.8
Emergencies 401.1 Fire 3310
Fire alarm 3310
Leak 5704.2.7.10 Record keeping 5603 Research reports 104.2.3.6 Residential Occupancies (Group R)
203
Alarms and detection
907.2.11, 907.2.12, 907.2.8, 907.2.9, 907.5.2.3.2, 907.5.2.3.3 Means of egress Aisles 1018.5
Corridors 1020.2, 1020.3
Doors 1010.1.1 Emergency escape and rescue 1031.2
Exit signs 1013.1, 1013.2 Single exits 1006.3 Travel distance 1006.3.3, 1017.2,
CFC § 5003.9.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Protection from vehicles 5003.9.3 Placards; Placarding (see also Signs) Cryogenic fluid containers 5503.4.2 Explosives 5604.6.5, 5604.6.5.2 Flammable and combustible liquid tanks 5703.5.3, 5704.2.3.2 Vacant buildings 311.5 Plans (see also Construction Documents) Diagrams 403.6.1.1 Evacuation 404.2.1 Facility closure 407.7 Fire safety 404.2.2 Hazardous materials management 5605.2.1
Lockdown 404.2.3
Maintenance of 5605.2.2
Prefire 5608.2
Storage 5704.4.1 Plant Extraction Systems Permit 105.5.42
Plastics Cellulose nitrate Chapter 65 Classifications of 3203.7
Foam 803.8, 804.2, 808.2 Manufacturing of glass-fiber-reinforced 2409 Pyroxylin 105.5.45, 314.3, 807.5.1.4, 903.2.5.3, Chapter 65, 1103.5.5 Plenum 315.6, 603.9 Defined 202 Plosophoric Material 202, 5605.1 Plywood And Veneer Mills 202 Fire alarm system 907.2.18, 2804.2 Portable Fire Extinguishers (see Fire Extinguishers, Portable) Portable Generators 202, 1204, 3305.8 Portable Outdoor Fireplaces 307.4.3, 307.5 Defined 202 Portable Outdoor Gas-Fired Heating Appliances 4103.1.2 Portable Tanks
Defined 202 Design, construction and capacity 5704.3.1
Empty 5704.3.3.4 Flammable liquids 2306.2.5 Flow rate 6004.2.2.7.5, Table 6004.2.2.7.5 Indoor storage 5704.3.3 Local exhaust 6004.2.2.4, 6004.3.2.3 Outdoor storage 5704.4, Table 5704.4, 6004.3.4
Piles 5704.3.3.10, 5704.3.7.2.3 Posting Evacuation diagrams (Group R-1) 403.9.1.1 Explosives and pyrotechnic amounts 5605.6.9 No smoking signs 310.3 Occupant load 1004.3, 5605.6.9 Permits 105.3.5
Tenant identification 403.10.1.5 Powder Coating 2406 Powered Industrial Trucks 309 Battery charging 309.2 Defined 202 Fire extinguishers 309.5 Refueling 309.6 Repairs 309.7
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INDEX
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.
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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.
California Fire Code Medium relevance — show source text
0
1450
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1370|2430
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2160|5070
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1500|32
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64
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57|136
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115|238
227
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201|338
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309
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286|721
688
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1730|4270
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99|194
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244|589
570
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522|1060
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940|1670
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1480|34CFC § 304.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Valet Trash Collection 202, 304.1.1, Appendix O Vapor Area, Flammable Defined 202
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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
Battery systems 1207.6.1 Defined 202 Dry cleaning 2104.2.1, 2105.2.3, 2106.3.3 Electrostatic equipment 2406.7 Exhaust 2703.14, 2703.15.2 Floor surfacing 2410.5 Hazardous materials 5003.8.4.2, 5003.8.5.2, 5003.8.6.2, 5005.2.1.1,
5005.2.2.1 Indoor dispensing 5005.1.9 Indoor storage areas 5004.3 Industrial ovens 3003.1
Powered industrial trucks 309.4
Process structures 2905.5 Refrigeration machinery room 608.14 Reinforced plastics manufacturing 2409.6
Repair garages 2311.4.3, 2311.8.8 Spray finishing 2404.9, 2404.9.4, 2406.7
Vents, Smoke and Heat (see Smoke and Heat Vents) Violation Penalties 113.4
Violations 113 Visible Alarm Notification Appliance 202,
907.5.2.3
Warehouse
Aerosol 5102.1, 5104.3, Table 5104.3.2, 5104.4 Liquid 5104.6, Table 5704.3.6(2), Table 5704.3.6.3(3), 5704.3.8,
CFC § 308.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
- Chimneys shall be made of noncombustible materials and securely attached to the open-flame device.
Exception: A chimney is not required to be attached to any open-flame device that will self-extinguish if the device is tipped over. 7. Fuel canisters shall be safely sealed for storage. 8. Storage and handling of combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 57. 9. Shades, where used, shall be made of noncombustible materials and securely attached to the open-flame device holder or chimney. 10. Candelabras with flame-lighted candles shall be securely fastened in place to prevent overturning, and shall be located away from occupants using the area and away from possible contact with drapes, curtains or other combustibles.
308.3.2 Theatrical performances. Where approved, open-flame devices used in conjunction with theatrical performances are allowed to be used where adequate safety precautions have been taken in accordance with NFPA 160.
308.4 Group R occupancies. Open flame, fire and burning in Group R occupancies shall comply with the requirements of Sections 308.1 through 308.1.7 and Section 308.4.1.
308.4.1 Group R-2 dormitories. Candles, incense and similar open-flame-producing items shall not be allowed in sleeping units in Group R-2 dormitory occupancies.
308.5 Group I, R-2.1, R-3.1, R-4 occupancies or any Licensed Care Facility. A person shall not utilize or allow to be utilized, an open flame in Group I, R-2.1, R-3.1, R-4 occupancies or any Licensed Care Facilities.
SECTION 309—POWERED INDUSTRIAL TRUCKS AND EQUIPMENT
309.1 General. Powered industrial trucks and similar equipment including, but not limited to, floor scrubbers and floor buffers, shall be operated and maintained in accordance with Sections 309.2 through 309.7.
309.2 Use in hazardous (classified) locations. Powered industrial trucks used in areas designated as hazardous (classified) locations in accordance with the California Electrical Code shall be listed and labeled for use in the environment intended in accordance
with NFPA 505.
309.3 Battery chargers. Battery chargers shall be of an approved type. Combustible storage shall be kept not less than 3 feet (915 mm) from battery chargers. Battery charging shall not be conducted in areas open to the public.
309.4 Ventilation. Ventilation shall be provided in an approved manner in battery-charging areas to prevent a dangerous accumulation of flammable gases.
309.5 Fire extinguishers. Battery-charging areas shall be provided with a fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 having a minimum 4-A:20-B:C rating within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the battery charger.
309.6 Refueling. Powered industrial trucks using liquid fuel, LP-gas or hydrogen shall be refueled outside of buildings or in areas specifically approved for that purpose. Fixed fuel-dispensing equipment and associated fueling operations shall be in accordance with Chapter 23. Other fuel-dispensing equipment and operations, including cylinder exchange for LP-gas-fueled vehicles, shall be in accordance with Chapter 57 for flammable and combustible liquids or Chapter 61 for LP-gas.
CFC § 312.3 Medium relevance — show source text
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.
314.3 Highly combustible goods. The display of highly combustible goods, including but not limited to fireworks, flammable or combustible liquids, liquefied flammable gases, oxidizing materials, pyroxylin plastics and agricultural goods, in main exit access aisles, corridors, covered and open malls, or within 5 feet (1524 mm) of entrances to exits and exterior exit doors is prohibited where a fire involving such goods would rapidly prevent or obstruct egress.
314.4 Vehicles. Liquid-fueled or gaseous-fueled vehicles, aircraft, boats or other motorcraft shall not be located indoors except as follows:
- The engine starting system is made inoperable or ignition batteries are disconnected except where the fire code official requires that the batteries remain connected to maintain safety features.
- Fuel in fuel tanks does not exceed any of the following: 2.1. Class I, II and III liquid fuel does not exceed one-quarter tank or 5 gallons (19 L), whichever is less. 2.2. LP gas does not exceed one-quarter tank or 6.6 gallons (25 L), whichever is less. 2.3. CNG does not exceed one-quarter tank or 630 cubic feet (17.8 m [3] ), whichever is less. 2.4. Hydrogen does not exceed one-quarter tank or 2,000 cubic feet (57 m [3] ), whichever is less.
- Fuel tanks and fill openings are closed and sealed to prevent tampering.
- Vehicles, aircraft, boats or other motorcraft equipment are not fueled or defueled within the building.
SECTION 315—GENERAL STORAGE
315.1 General. Storage shall be in accordance with Sections 315.2 through 315.6. Outdoor pallet storage shall be in accordance with Sections 315.2 and 315.7.
CFC § 12-01 Medium relevance — show source text
Compartment
Detail A Top View − Bus Termination
21 OFF
ON
12
20 21 22
7Col2 21
12
ON
OFF
7
20
21 228
9Col1 24” Min. Note : See Document 063929 for bus duct termination box details
See Detail H on Page 20
Figure 8 Bus Duct Termination
057521 Page 12 of 20 Rev. #12: 12-01-19
UG-1: Transformers Greenbook Pad-Mounted Transformer Installed Indoors EMWP
Layout for Cable Tray Service with a Separate Fire Pump
Fire Pump Bus Termination (see Figure 5 on Page 9 and Figure 3 on Page 7)
Primary 2-4”
12’ Ground Rod With 12” Exposed
2-4”
Note
Col1 Ground Wire Pulling Eye
#2 CU Solid
(see Detail B
on Page 17) Imaginary Line for
Transformer Pad
Secondary Ground Terminal GFI Duplex
Connections Required in Receptacle
Document 060462 (see Note 16 on
Ground Wire in Page 2)
Primary Trough
D 18”
D 36”Min
19” Cable Tray
22” 16”
42”
90”
Min.
No Cable Troughs in
Front of the Pad Area
6” High Removable Sill
(see Note 23 on Page 3)
S
SCol3 Col4 Col5 Col6 D D 36”Min 36”Min 42” 42” 42” 42” 42” 90” 90” 90” Min.
SMin.
SMin.
SMin.
S- Primary may also be routed to back wall of vault. Primary may not be routed from primary section of transformer to the back wall underneath the transformer.
Rev. #12: 12-01-19 057521 Page 13 of 20
UG-1: Transformers Greenbook Pad-Mounted Transformer Installed Indoors EMWP
Layout for Cable Tray Service with a Separate Fire Pump (continued)
9 Sets of 1,000 kcmil, 600 V Copper Conduct Extra Flexible, 127 D Stranding Code 294490
Removable
on Page 20
Section C−C
Note: Cable tray shall be vented, with rollers, minimum of 36” wide and 3-1/2” deep.
Figure 10 3,000 A − 4,000 A Pad-Mounted Service Cable Enclosure With Fire Pump
CFC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
(d) Group R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 Occupancies. In Group R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancies, a continuously attached garden hose, equipped with a water flow control nozzle, may be provided in lieu of one or more required fire extinguishers when acceptable to the enforcing agency. The location and length of such hose shall be as designated or approved by the enforcing agency.
NOTE: It is recommended that, wherever possible, portable fire extinguishers be located adjacent to manual fire alarm sending stations.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §565(a)] Selection of Fire Extinguishers.
(a) The selection of extinguishers for a given situation shall be determined by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with adopted codes or ordinances. The character of the fires anticipated, the construction and occupancy of the individual property, the vehicle or hazard to be protected, ambient-temperature conditions and other factors shall be considered. The number, size, place- ment and limitations of use of extinguishers required shall be determined by using California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Sections 567 through 573.
Exception: Portable fire extinguishers are not required at normally unmanned Group U occupancy buildings or structures where a portable fire extinguisher suitable to the hazard of the location is provided on the vehicle of visiting personnel.
TABLE 906.1—ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Col2 SECTION SUBJECT 303.5 Asphalt kettles 307.5 Open burning 308.1.3 Open flames—torches 309.4 Powered industrial trucks 1204.10 Portable generators 2005.2 Aircraft towing vehicles 2005.3 Aircraft welding apparatus 2005.4 Aircraft fuel-servicing tank vehicles 2005.5 Aircraft hydrant fuel-servicing vehicles 2005.6 Aircraft fuel-dispensing stations 2007.7 Heliports and helistops 2108.4 Dry cleaning plants 2305.5 Motor fuel-dispensing facilities 2310.6.4 Marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities 2311.6 Repair garages 2404.6.1 Spray-finishing operations 2405.4.2 Dip-tank operations 2406.4.2 Powder-coating areas 2804.3 Lumberyards/woodworking facilities 2808.8 Recycling facilities 2809.5 Exterior lumber storage 2903.5 Organic-coating areas 3006.3 Industrial ovens 3108.9 Tents and membrane structures 3206.10 High-piled storage 3306.6 Buildings under construction or demolition 3305.10.2 Roofing operations 3408.2 Tire rebuilding/storage 3504.2.6 Welding and other hot work 3604.4 Marinas 3703.6 Combustible fibers 9-32 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
Frequently asked questions
Can I charge forklift batteries in a retail salesroom?
No. Battery charging is not allowed in areas open to the public and must be in approved charger areas with ventilation, combustibles kept 3 ft away and a 4‑A:20‑B:C extinguisher within 20 ft per § 309.3–309.5.
How close can a display be to an exit?
Displays and fixtures must maintain free, immediate and unobstructed access to exits required by Chapter 10; highly combustible goods cannot be placed in exit access aisles, corridors, malls, or within 5 ft of entrances to exits or exterior exit doors under § 314.2–314.3.
May I bring a car inside for a show if I drain the tank?
You may display a vehicle only if you disable engine starting (or disconnect batteries), the fuel remaining is ≤ one‑quarter tank or the specified gallon/volume limit (whichever is less), fill openings are sealed, and no fueling occurs inside — see § 314.4.
Is any portable extinguisher acceptable at a battery‑charging area?
No — the code requires a minimum 4‑A:20‑B:C extinguisher within 20 ft of the battery charger per § 309.5.
If I have multiple small gas‑powered maintenance machines, can I store them indoors?
Storage of maintenance equipment is allowed in approved locations where the aggregate fuel capacity does not exceed 10 gallons and the building is fully sprinklered per § 313.1; otherwise indoor storage is prohibited.
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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