CFC · California Fire Code

Aerosol product storage limits, inside storage and excess-storage rooms

Homeowners and small retailers: the California Fire Code strictly limits how many aerosol cans you can keep inside. Small amounts (Level 2 and 3) are allowed up to occupancy-specific caps (e.g., 1,000 lb Level 2; 500 lb Level 3 in many occupancies), but anything beyond those limits must go into a properly constructed and protected inside flammable-liquid storage room or meet warehouse table requirements; large plastic aerosol containers that don’t meet the code’s plastic-aerosol criteria are prohibited.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — in plain English

  • § 5104.1.3.1: Storage, use or handling of plastic aerosol X products is prohibited — these products (larger plastic aerosol containers that do not meet the other plastic-aerosol criteria) may not be stored, used or handled inside buildings.
  • § 5104.2: In occupancies Groups A, B, E, F, I and R, the amount of Level 2 aerosols is limited to 1,000 pounds (net), Level 3 (and plastic aerosol 3) to 500 pounds (net), and the combined limit is 1,000 pounds (net). Storage beyond those amounts must be handled as excess storage.
  • § 5104.2.1: Quantities that exceed the § 5104.2 limits must be placed in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms complying with the liquid-storageroom rules (see § 5104.5 referenced by § 5104.2.1).
  • § 5104.3.1: In general purpose warehouses where Level 2 and 3 aerosols are stored nonsegregated among other commodities, the maximum per-floor quantities follow Table 5104.3.1 (values vary by storage type and sprinkler protection).

Most important: If you have amounts above the small-quantity occupancy limits, you cannot just tuck extra cans in the back room — the excess must go into a compliant inside flammable-liquid storage room or meet the warehouse table limits and protection requirements.

Requirements in detail

Scope & prohibited items

  • Plastic aerosol X products: storage/use/handling prohibited under § 5104.1.3.1. If you encounter plastic aerosol containers larger than 4 fl. oz. that do not meet the plastic-1 or plastic-3 criteria, they are not permitted.

Occupancy-based limits (Groups A, B, E, F, I, R)

Use the following quick reference when the space is one of the listed occupancy groups:

Product category Maximum net weight (pounds) Code Reference
Level 2 aerosol products 1,000 lb § 5104.2
Level 3 aerosol / plastic aerosol 3 500 lb § 5104.2
Combined Level 2 + Level 3/plastic aerosol 3 1,000 lb § 5104.2
Increase when stored in approved cabinets +100% (i.e., double) § 5104.2 / § 5704.3.2

Notes: The cabinet increase (100%) applies only when the excess quantity is stored in approved storage cabinets meeting § 5704.3.2.

Excess storage — inside flammable liquid storage rooms

  • Where to put excess: Quantities exceeding the occupancy-group limits in § 5104.2 must be stored in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms per § 5104.2.1 (these rooms are regulated under § 5104.5 / Chapter 57 liquid-storage-room requirements).
  • Room size matters — the code splits storage rooms at 500 square feet. Key numeric limits:
Storage-room area Level 2 max (lb) Level 3 max (lb) Combined max (lb) Code Reference
≤ 500 sq ft 1,000 lb 500 lb 1,000 lb § 5104.5.1
> 500 sq ft 2,500 lb 1,000 lb 2,500 lb § 5104.5.2
Sprinkler-protected aggregate (separate inside rooms) Up to 5,000 lb aggregate (with approved automatic sprinkler protection per NFPA 30B) § 5104.5.2

Notes: Separate inside storage rooms are subject to the liquid-storage-room construction and protection provisions (see Chapter 57 references cited by § 5104.5).

General-purpose warehouses — nonsegregated storage (Table 5104.3.1)

If aerosol product storage occurs in a mixed-commodity warehouse and is nonsegregated, use Table 5104.3.1 limits (values are maximum net weight per floor and apply to any 50,000-square-foot area):

Storage condition Unprotected pallet/solid-pile (lb) Protected pallet/solid-pile (lb) Unprotected rack (lb) Protected rack (lb) Code Reference
Level 2 2,500 12,000 2,500 24,000 Table 5104.3.1 / § 5104.3.1
Level 3 1,000 12,000 1,000 24,000 Table 5104.3.1 / § 5104.3.1
Combination 2 & 3 2,500 12,000 2,500 24,000 Table 5104.3.1 / § 5104.3.1

Important implementation notes:

  • The higher “protected” allowances require an approved automatic sprinkler system and storage arrangements to comply with NFPA 30B; sprinkler protection must extend 20 feet beyond the aerosol storage area.
  • The table quantities are maximums within any 50,000-square-foot area (so you cannot simply aggregate across a larger warehouse without following the per-area rules).

Segregated storage (contrast)

  • If segregated storage areas are used (areas used exclusively for aerosol storage), Table 5104.3.2 sets different area limits and separation/construction options (chain-link enclosures, fire walls, etc.). See § 5104.3.2 and its subsections for chain-link fence and aisle rules.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Plastic aerosol X: outright prohibited — cannot be treated as a storage exception or placed in cabinets to allow storage. § 5104.1.3.1.
  • Aerosol cooking spray products: special caps on storage in some occupancies (e.g., Group A, B, E, F, I, R) — typically 1,000 lb net weight limit unless other protections apply. See § 5104.2.2.
  • Cabinet increase: The 100% increase (double permitted quantity) applies only when storing the excess in approved storage cabinets per § 5704.3.2 — do not assume other storage methods qualify.
  • Sprinkler design standard: When the higher protected limits are relied on, sprinklers for aerosol storage are to comply with NFPA 30B (not just standard NFPA 13 commodity densities). The code references NFPA 30B explicitly in the aerosol-storage sections.

Common mistakes

  • Treating gross weight as allowable rather than net weight — the tables and limits are net weight of aerosol contents. Always use net weights.
  • Assuming ordinary sprinkler protection (NFPA 13) is sufficient for aerosol protected limits — the code requires NFPA 30B protections and specific application of sprinklers and storage arrangement.
  • Forgetting the per 50,000-square-foot basis for warehouse maximums — totals must be checked within any 50,000-sq-ft area, not just building-wide.
  • Placing excess quantities in noncompliant rooms (e.g., a miscellaneous storeroom) instead of a separate inside flammable liquid storage room as required by § 5104.2.1 and § 5104.5.
  • Misapplying the cabinet 100% increase to every situation — it applies only when the storage cabinets meet § 5704.3.2.

Worked example

Scenario: A small retail store (Group M) has received a shipment with 2,200 lb of Level 2 aerosols and 800 lb of Level 3 aerosols. The store floor and back room are Group M spaces without a dedicated flammable liquid storage room.

Step 1 — Check Group limits (§ 5104.2):

  • Allowed Level 2 = 1,000 lb; allowed Level 3 = 500 lb; combined allowed = 1,000 lb. The shipment clearly exceeds those limits.

Step 2 — Excess must be stored in a compliant room (§ 5104.2.1 → § 5104.5):

  • Option A: Provide a separate inside flammable liquid storage room ≤ 500 sq ft. That room would allow up to 1,000 lb Level 2 and 500 lb Level 3 (combined 1,000 lb) per § 5104.5.1, which still would not accommodate the full shipment.
  • Option B: Provide a separate inside flammable liquid storage room > 500 sq ft that complies with § 5104.5.2; that room would allow up to 2,500 lb Level 2 and 1,000 lb Level 3 (combined 2,500 lb). This would be sufficient for the shipment if the room is constructed and protected per the liquid storage-room requirements.

Step 3 — Sprinkler consideration:

  • If the store installs an approved NFPA 30B sprinkler system in the storage room, aggregate allowances can be increased (the code allows aggregate up to 5,000 lb in separate inside storage rooms where sprinkler protection meeting NFPA 30B is provided). Confirm system design with the authority having jurisdiction.

Conclusion: The store cannot leave the extra cans in the sales floor or back room. To keep the shipment on-site lawfully, it must provide a compliant inside flammable-liquid storage room greater than 500 sq ft (or otherwise meet the applicable warehouse/protection provisions) and follow NFPA 30B sprinkler/design requirements.

Related provisions

  • § 5104.1.3.1 — Plastic aerosol X products: storage/use/handling prohibited.
  • § 5104.2 — Storage limits for Groups A, B, E, F, I and R (Level 2, Level 3, combined).
  • § 5104.2.1 — Excess storage must be in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms (see § 5104.5).
  • § 5104.3.1 — Nonsegregated storage limits (Table 5104.3.1) for general purpose warehouses.
  • § 5104.3.2 — Segregated storage area options, chain-link fences and aisle rules.
  • § 5104.5 — Inside flammable liquid storage-room quantity limits and sprinkler/aggregate rules.
  • § 5704.3.2 — Approved storage cabinets — relevant for the cabinet 100% increase provision.
  • NFPA 30B — referenced standard for sprinkler and storage arrangements for aerosol product protection (see sections that reference NFPA 30B).

Code references

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

  • CFC § 5104.3.3 High relevance — show source text

    5104.3.3 Aerosol cooking spray products. Solid pile, palletized or rack storage of aerosol cooking spray products in a general purpose warehouse shall not be more than 2,500 pounds (1135 kg) net weight, unless protected in accordance with NFPA 30B.

    5104.4 Storage in aerosol product warehouses. The total quantity of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, aerosol cooking sprays and plastic aerosol 3 products in a warehouse utilized for the storage, shipping and receiving of aerosol products shall not be restricted in structures complying with Sections 5104.4.1 through 5104.4.4.

    5104.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Aerosol product warehouses shall be protected by an approved wet-pipe automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 30B. Sprinkler protection shall be designed based on the highest classification level of aerosol product present.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 51-5

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    AEROSOLS

    5104.4.2 Pile and palletized storage aisles. Solid pile and palletized storage shall be arranged so the maximum travel distance to an aisle is 25 feet (7620 mm). Aisles shall have a minimum width of 4 feet (1219 mm).

    5104.4.3 Rack storage aisles. Rack storage shall be arranged with a minimum aisle width of 8 feet (2438 mm) between rows of racks and 8 feet (2438 mm) between racks and adjacent solid pile or palletized storage. Where early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinklers provide automatic sprinkler protection, the minimum aisle width shall be 4 feet (1219 mm).

    5104.4.4 Combustible commodities. Combustible commodities other than flammable and combustible liquids shall be permitted to be stored in an aerosol product warehouse.

    Exception: Flammable and combustible liquids in 1-quart (946 ml) metal containers and smaller shall be permitted to be stored in an aerosol product warehouse.

    5104.5 Storage in inside flammable liquid storage rooms. Inside flammable liquid storage rooms shall comply with Section 5704.3.7. The maximum quantities of aerosol products shall comply with Section 5104.5.1 or 5104.5.2.

    5104.5.1 Storage rooms of 500 square feet or less. The storage of aerosol products in flammable liquid storage rooms less than or equal to 500 square feet (46 m [2] ) in area shall not exceed the following quantities:

    1. A net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 aerosol products.
    2. A net weight of 500 pounds (227 kg) of Level 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.
    3. A combined net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.
  • CFC § 51-4 High relevance — show source text

    5104 Inside Storage of Aerosol Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-4 5105 Outside Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-7 5106 Retail Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-7 5107 Manufacturing Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-9

    CHAPTER 52 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-1

    CHAPTER 53 COMPRESSED GASES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-3

    5301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-3

    5302 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-4

    5303 General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-4 5304 Storage of Compressed Gases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-7 5305 Use and Handling of Compressed Gases. . . . . . . . . 53-7

    5306 Medical Gases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-8

    5307 Compressed Gases Not Otherwise Regulated . . . . 53-9

    CHAPTER 54 CORROSIVE MATERIALS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-3

    5401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-3

    5402 Definition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-3

    5403 General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-3 5404 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-3

    5405 Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-3

    CHAPTER 55 CRYOGENIC FLUIDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55-3

    5501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55-3

  • CFC § 5704.3.2. High relevance — show source text

    The maximum quantity shall be increased 100 percent where the excess quantity is stored in storage cabinets in accordance with Section 5704.3.2.

    5104.2.1 Excess storage. Storage of quantities exceeding the maximum quantities indicated in Section 5104.2 shall be stored in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms in accordance with Section 5104.5.

    5104.2.2 Aerosol cooking spray products. Storage of aerosol cooking spray products in Group A, B, E, F, I and R occupancies shall not be more than 1,000 pounds (454 kg) net weight.

    5104.3 Storage in general purpose warehouses. Aerosol product storage in general purpose warehouses utilized only for warehousing-type operations involving mixed commodities shall comply with Section 5104.3.1, 5104.3.2. or 5104.3.3.

    5104.3.1 Nonsegregated storage. Storage consisting of solid pile, palletized or rack storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products not segregated into areas utilized exclusively for the storage of aerosol products shall comply with Table 5104.3.1.

    TABLE 5104.3.1—NONSEGREGATED STORAGE OF LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL
    AND PLASTIC AEROSOL 3 PRODUCTS IN GENERAL PURPOSE WAREHOUSESb    		 Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    AEROSOL LEVEL MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)b MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)b MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)b MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)b
    AEROSOL LEVEL Palletized or solid-pile storage Palletized or solid-pile storage Rack storage Rack storage
    AEROSOL LEVEL Unprotected Protecteda Unprotected Protecteda
    2 2,500 12,000 2,500 24,000
    3 1,000 12,000 1,000 24,000
    Combination 2 and 3 2,500 12,000 2,500 24,000
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Approved automatic sprinkler system protection and storage arrangements shall comply with NFPA 30B. Sprinkler system protection shall extend 20 feet beyond the storage
    area containing the aerosol products.
    b. Storage quantities indicated are the maximum permitted in any 50,000-square-foot area.    		 For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Approved automatic sprinkler system protection and storage arrangements shall comply with NFPA 30B. Sprinkler system protection shall extend 20 feet beyond the storage
    area containing the aerosol products.
    b. Storage quantities indicated are the maximum permitted in any 50,000-square-foot area.    		 For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a.
  • CFC § 5104.1.3 High relevance — show source text

    5104.1.3 Plastic aerosol X products. Plastic aerosol X products are those products, in containers larger than 4 fluid ounces (118 ml), that do not meet the criteria provided in Section 5104.1.1 or 5104.1.2.

    5104.1.3.1 Storage, use or handling. The storage, use or handling of plastic aerosol X products shall be prohibited.

    5104.2 Storage in Groups A, B, E, F, I and R. Storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products in occupancies in Groups A, B, E, F, I and R shall be limited to the following maximum quantities:

    1. A net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 aerosol products.
    2. A net weight of 500 pounds (227 kg) of Level 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.
    3. A combined net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.

    The maximum quantity shall be increased 100 percent where the excess quantity is stored in storage cabinets in accordance with Section 5704.3.2.

    5104.2.1 Excess storage. Storage of quantities exceeding the maximum quantities indicated in Section 5104.2 shall be stored in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms in accordance with Section 5104.5.

    5104.2.2 Aerosol cooking spray products. Storage of aerosol cooking spray products in Group A, B, E, F, I and R occupancies shall not be more than 1,000 pounds (454 kg) net weight.

    5104.3 Storage in general purpose warehouses. Aerosol product storage in general purpose warehouses utilized only for warehousing-type operations involving mixed commodities shall comply with Section 5104.3.1, 5104.3.2. or 5104.3.3.

    5104.3.1 Nonsegregated storage. Storage consisting of solid pile, palletized or rack storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products not segregated into areas utilized exclusively for the storage of aerosol products shall comply with Table 5104.3.1.

  • CFC § 50-3 High relevance — show source text

    5001 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-3

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    5002 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-6

    5003 General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-7 5004 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-21 5005 Use, Dispensing and Handling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-25

    CHAPTER 51 AEROSOLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-3

    5101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-3

    5102 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-3

    5103 Classification of Aerosol Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-3

    5104 Inside Storage of Aerosol Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-4 5105 Outside Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-7 5106 Retail Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-7 5107 Manufacturing Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-9

    CHAPTER 52 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-1

    CHAPTER 53 COMPRESSED GASES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-3

    5301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-3

    5302 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-4

    5303 General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-4 5304 Storage of Compressed Gases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53-7 5305 Use and Handling of Compressed Gases. . . . . . . . . 53-7

  • CFC § 5104.5.2 High relevance — show source text

    5104.5.2 Storage rooms greater than 500 square feet. The storage of aerosol products in flammable liquid storage rooms greater than 500 square feet (46 m [2] ) in area shall not exceed the following quantities:

    1. A net weight of 2,500 pounds (1135 kg) of Level 2 aerosol products.
    2. A net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 3 aerosol products.
    3. A combined net weight of 2,500 pounds (1135 kg) of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.

    The maximum aggregate storage quantity of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products permitted in separate inside storage rooms protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with NFPA 30B shall be 5,000 pounds (2270 kg).

    5104.6 Storage in liquid warehouses. The storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products in liquid warehouses shall comply with NFPA 30B. The storage shall be located within segregated storage areas in accordance with Section 5104.3.2 and Sections 5104.6.1 through 5104.6.3.

    5104.6.1 Containment. Spill control or drainage shall be provided to prevent the flow of liquid to within 8 feet (2438 mm) of the segregated storage area.

    5104.6.2 Sprinkler design. Sprinkler protection shall be designed based on the highest level of aerosol product present.

    5104.6.3 Opening protection into segregated storage areas. Fire doors or gates opening into the segregated storage area shall either be self-closing or provided with automatic-closing devices activated by sprinkler water flow or an approved fire detection system.

    5104.7 Storage in Group M occupancies. Storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products in occupancies in Group M shall comply with Table 5104.7. Retail display shall comply with Section 5106.

    TABLE 5104.7—MAXIMUM QUANTITIES OF LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL PRODUCTS,
    AEROSOL COOKING SPRAY PRODUCTS AND PLASTIC AEROSOL 3 PRODUCTS IN RETAIL STORAGE AREAS    		 Col2 Col3 Col4
    MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds) MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds) MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds) MAXIMUM NET WEIGHT PER FLOOR (pounds)
    Floor Nonsegregated storagea, b Segregated storage Segregated storage
    Floor Nonsegregated storagea, b Storage cabinetsb Separated from retail areac
    Basement Not Permitted Not Permitted Not Permitted
    Ground 2,500 5,000 Note d
    Upper 500 1,000 Note d
    For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. The total aggregate quantity on display and in storage shall not exceed the maximum retail display quantity indicated in Section 5106.3.
    b. Storage quantities indicated are the maximum permitted in any 50,000-square-foot area.
    c. The storage area shall be separated from the retail area with a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated assembly.
    d.
  • CFC § 5003.11. High relevance — show source text

    The aggregate quantities in storage and use shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity for storage, including applicable increases.
    c. The aggregate quantity of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials allowed in outdoor storage per single property under the
    same ownership or control used for retail or wholesale sales is allowed to exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area where such storage is in accordance with
    Section 5003.11.
    d. Allowed only where used in approved exhausted gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures or under fume hoods.
    e. The maximum allowable quantity per control area for toxic liquids with vapor pressures in excess of 1 psia at 77°F shall be the maximum allowable quantity per control area
    listed for highly toxic liquids.
    f. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.|

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    HAZARDOUS MATERIALS—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    TABLE 5003.1.1(5)—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EXEMPTIONSa Col2 Col3
    MATERIAL CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY OR
    APPLICATION    		 EXEMPTION
    Combustible fiber Baled cotton Densely packed baled cotton shall not be classified as combustible fiber, provided that
    the bales comply with the packing requirements of ISO 8115.
    Corrosive Building materials The quantity of commonly used building materials that are classified as corrosive
    materials is not limited.
    Corrosive Personal and
    household products    		 The quantity of personal and household products that are classified as corrosive materials
    is not limited in retail displays, provided that the products are in original packaging.
    Corrosive Retail and wholesale
    sales occupancies    		 The quantity of medicines, foodstuffs or consumer products, and cosmetics containing
    not more than 50 percent by volume of water-miscible liquids, with the remainder of
    the solutions not being flammable, is not limited.
    To qualify for this allowance, such materials shall be packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    Explosives Groups B, F, M and S Storage of special industrial explosive devices is not limited.
    Explosives Groups M and R-3 Storage of black powder, smokeless propellant, and small arms primers is not limited.
    Flammable and combustible
    liquids and gases    		 Aerosols Buildings and structures occupied for the storage of aerosol products, aerosol cooking
    spray products, or plastic aerosol 3 products shall be classified as Group S-1.
    Flammable and combustible
    liquids and gases    		 Alcoholic beverages The quantity of alcoholic beverages in liquor stores and distributors without bulk
    storage is not limited.
    Flammable and combustible
    liquids and gases    		 Alcoholic beverages The quantity of alcoholic beverages in distilling or brewing of beverages is not limited.
    Flammable and combustible
    liquids and gases    		 Alcoholic beverages The storage quantity of beer, distilled spirits and wines in barrels and casks is not limited.
    Flammable and combustible
    liquids and gases    		 Alcoholic beverages The quantity of alcoholic beverages in retail and wholesale sales occupancies is not
    limited.
  • CFC § 5104.8.1 High relevance — show source text

    5104.8.1 Mixed storage. Where aerosol cooking spray products are mixed with other higher-hazard aerosol products, the provided isolation, storage height restrictions and protection shall be based on the highest-hazard aerosol product present.

    5104.8.2 Storage conditions. The storage and handling of aerosol cooking spray products shall comply with this chapter and NFPA 30B.

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    AEROSOLS

    SECTION 5105—OUTSIDE STORAGE

    5105.1 General. The outside storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products and plastic aerosol 3 products, including storage in temporary storage trailers, shall be separated from exposures in accordance with Table 5105.1.

    TABLE 5105.1—DISTANCE TO EXPOSURES FOR OUTSIDE STORAGE OF
    LEVEL 2 AND 3 AEROSOL PRODUCTS AND PLASTIC AEROSOL 3 PRODUCTS    		 Col2
    EXPOSURE MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM AEROSOL STORAGE (feet)a
    Buildings 50
    Exit discharge to a public way 50
    Lot lines 20
    Other outside storage 50
    Public alleys, public ways, public streets 20
    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. The minimum separation distance indicated is not required where exterior walls having a 2-hour fire-resistance rating without penetrations separate the storage from the
    exposure. The walls shall extend not less than 30 inches above and to the sides of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products and plastic aerosol 3 products.    		 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
    a. The minimum separation distance indicated is not required where exterior walls having a 2-hour fire-resistance rating without penetrations separate the storage from the
    exposure. The walls shall extend not less than 30 inches above and to the sides of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products and plastic aerosol 3 products.

    SECTION 5106—RETAIL DISPLAY

    5106.1 General. This section shall apply to the retail display of 500 pounds (227 kg) or more of Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products.

    5106.2 Aerosol display and normal merchandising not exceeding 8 feet in height. Aerosol display and normal merchandising not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in height shall be in accordance with Sections 5106.2.1 through 5106.2.5.

    5106.2.1 Maximum quantities in retail display areas. Aerosol products, aerosol cooking spray products and plastic aerosol 3 products in retail display areas shall not exceed quantities needed for display and normal merchandising and shall not exceed the quantities in Table 5106.2.1.

  • CFC § 319.2 High relevance — show source text

    Nonindustrial 319.2

    Permits 105.5.1

    Address Number (see Premises Identification) Administration

    Alternative methods and materials

    104.2.3, 501.4 Applicability 102 Approval 104.7.1, 401.2, 2307.2, 2308.2, 3103.2, 5706.4.7.1 Approved materials and equipment 104.9

    INDEX

    Emergencies 104.11 General 101

    Inspections 104.7.2, 109 Maintenance 110 Means of appeals 112.1 Permits 104.3, 105 Right of entry 104.4 Unsafe buildings 115 Violations 113

    Aerosol Container

    Defined 202

    Glass 5101.4

    Plastic 5101.4, 5104.1.1 Aerosol Fire-Extinguishing Systems 904.13 Aerosol Product Warehouse 202, 5104.4 Aerosols Chapter 51 Aerosol cooking spray products 202 Aerosol product 202 Classification levels 5103.1 Classification of products Table 5103.1

    Defined 202 Inside storage 5104 Manufacturing facilities 5107 Nonsegregated storage 5104.3.1, Table 5104.3.1 Outside storage 5105 Permit required 105.5.2 Retail display 5106 Segregated storage 5104.3.2, Table 5104.3.2

    Agency Defined 202

    Agent Defined 202 Agricultural Building (Occupancy Group U) Defined 202

    Occupant load Table 1004.5 Agricultural Products 3703.4, 6001.1 Agro-Industrial Byproducts 2801.1 Defined 202

    Facilities 2804.1, 2808.1 Aircraft Defueling 2006.5, 2006.18 Fueling 2006 Hangars 914.8.3 Maintenance 2004 Aircraft Motor-Vehicle Fuel-Dispensing Facility 2006.1, 2301.1 Defined 202 Aircraft Operation Area (AOA) Defined 202 Housekeeping in 2003.3 Smoking prohibited 2003.2 Aircraft-Related Occupancies, Fire Protection for 914.8 Air-Inflated Structures (see Tents and Other Membrane Structures) Defined 202

    Permit 105.5.51 Airport Defined 202 Airport Traffic Control Towers 907.2.22, 914.8.1, 914.8.2

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE INDEX-1

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    INDEX

    Refrigerant 608.13.4 Treatment system 608.13.5 Ammonium Nitrate 5601.1.5

    Defined 202 Ammunition, Small Arms 202, 5606 Storage and handling 105.5.16, 5601.2.1, 5604 Amusement Building, Special (see Special Amusement Building) Amusement Park Structures (Assembly, Group A-5) Defined 202

    Annunciator

    Defined 202

  • CFC § 15.8 Medium relevance — show source text

    The commodity classification shall be Class III commodities, as defined in NFPA 13 where any of the following conditions are met:

    1. Base product does not have a fire point where tested in accordance with ASTM D92, and nonflammable propellant.
    2. Base product does not sustain combustion as tested in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR Part 173, Appendix H, and nonflammable propellant.
    3. Base product contains up to 20 percent by volume (15.8 percent by weight) of ethanol, isopropyl alcohol or a combination thereof in an aqueous mix, and nonflammable propellant.
    4. Base product contains 4 percent by weight or less of an emulsified flammable liquefied gas propellant within an aqueous base. The propellant shall remain emulsified for the life of the product. Where such propellant is not permanently emulsified, the propellant shall be nonflammable.

    5104.1.2 Plastic aerosol 3 products. Plastic aerosol 3 products shall be defined as those that meet one of the following criteria:

    1. Base product does not have a fire point where tested in accordance with ASTM D92, and there is not more than 10 percent by weight flammable propellant.
    2. Base product does not sustain combustion as tested in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR 173, Appendix H, and there is not more than 10 percent by weight flammable propellant.
    3. Base product contains 50 percent by volume or less of flammable or combustible water-miscible alcohols in an aqueous mix, and there is not more than 10 percent by weight of flammable propellant.

    5104.1.3 Plastic aerosol X products. Plastic aerosol X products are those products, in containers larger than 4 fluid ounces (118 ml), that do not meet the criteria provided in Section 5104.1.1 or 5104.1.2.

    5104.1.3.1 Storage, use or handling. The storage, use or handling of plastic aerosol X products shall be prohibited.

    5104.2 Storage in Groups A, B, E, F, I and R. Storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products in occupancies in Groups A, B, E, F, I and R shall be limited to the following maximum quantities:

    1. A net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 aerosol products.
    2. A net weight of 500 pounds (227 kg) of Level 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.
    3. A combined net weight of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) of Level 2 and 3 aerosol and plastic aerosol 3 products.

    The maximum quantity shall be increased 100 percent where the excess quantity is stored in storage cabinets in accordance with Section 5704.3.2.

    5104.2.1 Excess storage. Storage of quantities exceeding the maximum quantities indicated in Section 5104.2 shall be stored in separate inside flammable liquid storage rooms in accordance with Section 5104.5.

    5104.2.2 Aerosol cooking spray products. Storage of aerosol cooking spray products in Group A, B, E, F, I and R occupancies shall not be more than 1,000 pounds (454 kg) net weight.

  • CFC § 57-27 Medium relevance — show source text

    5 FEET, AND PALLETIZED STORAGE ABOVE IN A DOUBLE-ROW RACK ARRAYa**|STORAGE
    HEIGHT|STORAGE
    HEIGHT|STORAGE
    HEIGHT|Maximum
    20-foot
    storage
    height|Maximum
    20-foot
    storage
    height|

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 57-27

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    FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS

    5704.3.6.4 Warning for containers. Cans, containers and vessels containing flammable liquids or flammable liquid compounds or mixtures offered for sale shall be provided with a warning indicator, painted or printed on the container and stating that the liquid is flammable, and shall be kept away from heat and an open flame.

    5704.3.6.5 Storage plan. Where required by fire the code official, aisle and storage plans shall be submitted in accordance with Chapter 50.

    5704.3.7 Liquid storage rooms. Liquid storage rooms shall comply with Sections 5704.3.7.1 through 5704.3.7.5.2.

    5704.3.7.1 General. Quantities of liquids exceeding those set forth in Section 5704.3.4.1 for storage in control areas shall be stored in a liquid storage room complying with this section and constructed and separated as required by the California Build- ing Code .

    5704.3.7.2 Quantities and arrangement of storage. The quantity limits and storage arrangements in liquid storage rooms shall be in accordance with Tables 5704.3.6.3(2) and 5704.3.6.3(3) and Sections 5704.3.7.2.1 through 5704.3.7.2.3.

    5704.3.7.2.1 Mixed storage. Where two or more classes of liquids are stored in a pile or rack section, both of the following shall apply:

    1. The quantity in that pile or rack shall not exceed the smallest of the maximum quantities for the classes of liquids stored in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(2) or 5704.3.6.3(3).
    2. The height of storage in that pile or rack shall not exceed the smallest of the maximum heights for the classes of liquids stored in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(2) or 5704.3.6.3(3).

    5704.3.7.2.2 Separation and aisles. Piles shall be separated from each other by not less than 4-foot (1219 mm) aisles. Aisles shall be provided so that all containers are 20 feet (6096 mm) or less from an aisle. Where the storage of liquids is on racks, a minimum 4-foot-wide (1219 mm) aisle shall be provided between adjacent rows of racks and adjacent storage of liquids. Main aisles shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) wide.

    Additional aisles shall be provided for access to doors, required windows and ventilation openings, standpipe connections, mechanical equipment and switches. Such aisles shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width, unless greater widths are required for separation of piles or racks, in which case the greater width shall be provided.

  • CFC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text

    8|||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 32-1

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    32-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    32 HIGH-PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 32 provides guidance for reasonable protection of life from hazards associated with the storage of combustible materials in closely packed piles or on pallets, in racks or on shelves where the top of storage is greater than 12 feet in height, or 6 feet for high-hazard commodities. It provides requirements for identifying various classes of commodities; and general fire and life safety features including storage arrangements, smoke and heat venting, fire department access and housekeeping and maintenance. This chapter attempts to define the potential fire severity and, in turn, determine fire and life safety protection measures needed to control and in some cases suppress a potential fire. This chapter does not cover miscellaneous combustible material storage as regulated in Section 315.

    SECTION 3201—GENERAL

    3201.1 Scope. H igh-piled combustible storage shall be in accordance with this chapter. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, the following material-specific requirements shall apply:

    1. Aerosols shall be in accordance with Chapter 51.
    2. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 57.
    3. Hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Chapter 50.
    4. Storage of combustible paper records shall be in accordance with NFPA 13.
    5. Storage of combustible fibers shall be in accordance with Chapter 37.
    6. General storage of combustible material shall be in accordance with Chapter 3.

    3201.2 Permits. A permit shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.5 and 105.6.

    3201.3 Construction documents. At the time of building permit application for new structures designed to accommodate high-piled storage or for requesting a change of occupancy/use, and at the time of application for a storage permit, plans and specifications shall be submitted for review and approval. In addition to the information required by the California Building Code, the storage permit submittal shall include the information specified in this section. The construction documents shall include all of the following:

    1. Floor plan of the building showing locations and dimensions of high-piled storage areas.

    2. Usable storage height for each storage area.

    3. Number of tiers within each rack, if applicable.

    4. Commodity clearance between top of storage and the sprinkler deflector for each storage arrangement.

    5. Aisle dimensions between each storage array.

    6. Maximum pile volume for each storage array.

    7. Location and classification of commodities in accordance with Section 3203.

Frequently asked questions

Can I store more aerosol cans if I put them on a pallet in the back room?

No — you must check the occupancy-specific limits (§ 5104.2) or the warehouse tables (Table 5104.3.1) and the room must be a compliant inside flammable liquid storage room for excess quantities (see § 5104.2.1 and § 5104.5).

What if my building has sprinklers — does that automatically allow more aerosols?

Not automatically. Higher allowances require an approved sprinkler system designed and installed per NFPA 30B and the sprinkler protection must extend 20 feet beyond the aerosol storage area as specified in the aerosol-storage provisions.

Are plastic aerosol containers always forbidden?

No — plastic aerosol 1 and plastic aerosol 3 products (small containers meeting specific criteria) are allowed under controlled conditions. Only plastic aerosol X products (large plastic containers that do not meet those criteria) are prohibited from storage, use or handling under § 5104.1.3.1.

My warehouse is large — how do I apply the per-50,000-sq-ft rule?

The nonsegregated warehouse quantities in Table 5104.3.1 are maximums in any 50,000-square-foot area. For areas larger than 50,000 sq ft, you must apply the limits to each 50,000-sq-ft portion or use the segregated-storage provisions.

Can I double occupancy limits by using cabinets?

A 100% increase is allowed only where the excess quantity is stored in approved storage cabinets constructed per § 5704.3.2; cabinets must meet that section to qualify.

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California Fire Code