CFC · California Fire Code

Storage: quantities, separation, cabinets and control areas

Summarizes CFC rules on maximum storage quantities, approved cabinets/enclosures, incompatible‑material separation, and control‑area separation and outdoor control‑area rules.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

Overview

This part of the California Fire Code controls how much hazardous material may be stored in a single control area (maximum allowable quantities and tables such as Table 5003.1.1), how those quantities can be increased (sprinklers, approved storage cabinets/gas cabinets), and how incompatible materials and separate control areas must be arranged and protected . It also prescribes special configurations for specific hazards (for example, flammable gases, organic peroxides and unstable/reactive materials) and the cabinet/enclosure standards used to safely increase allowed quantities .

Why this matters: quantity limits, control-area separations and approved cabinet/enclosure requirements reduce fire, explosion and toxic-release risk and set the fire-protection design (sprinkler density, fire barriers, exhaust) for storage areas. Key storage rules include separation of incompatible materials (§5003.9.8), requirements for outdoor control areas (§5003.12), and the cabinet/gas‑cabinet provisions referenced throughout the storage tables and material chapters .

Primary sections and chapters to consult include Sections 5001–5004 (general hazardous-materials storage framework), the Table 5003.1.1 series and its notes, the gas‑cabinet/storage‑cabinet requirements referenced in Section 5003.8 and §5003.9, plus material‑specific chapters such as Chapter 57 (flammable and combustible liquids), Chapter 62 (organic peroxides) and Chapter 66 (unstable/reactive materials) for additional storage limits and special provisions .

In this section

Code references

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

  • CFC § 453.7.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building_
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    j. Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuff or consumer products and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of
    water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    d._ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    j. Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c.

  • CFC § 5003.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California Fire Code_.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2 of the_California Fire Code_.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 414.2.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity for storage, including applicable increases.
    c._ Reserved.
    d.**
    [SFM]** In other than Group L occupancies,maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprin-
    kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California

    Fire Code. Where Note d also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For corrosive, highly toxic and toxic materials stored or displayed in Group M occupancies or stored in Group S occupancies, see Section 414.2.5.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California Fire Code_.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2 of the_California Fire Code_.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 414.2.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity for storage, including applicable increases.
    c._ Reserved.
    d.**
    [SFM]** In other than Group L occupancies,maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprin-
    kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California

    Fire Code. Where Note d also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For corrosive, highly toxic and toxic materials stored or displayed in Group M occupancies or stored in Group S occupancies, see Section 414.2.5.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California Fire Code_.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i.

  • CFC § 5003.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuff or consumer products and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of
    water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    d._ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    j. Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuff or consumer products and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of
    water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    d._ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f.

  • CFC § 0.454 High relevance — show source text

    02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuff or consumer products and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of
    water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    d._ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    j. Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuff or consumer products and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of
    water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    d._ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h.

  • CFC § 903.3.1.1. High relevance — show source text

    _ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    j. Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the quantity listed for storage.
    c. In retail and wholesale sales occupancies, the quantities of medicines, foodstuff or consumer products and cosmetics, containing not more than 50 percent by volume of
    water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solutions not being flammable, shall not be limited, provided that such materials are packaged in individual containers
    not exceeding 1.3 gallons.
    d._ [SFM]_In other than Group L occupancies, maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in
    accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively. For Group L occupancies, refer to California Building
    Code Table 453.7.2.1 for approved cabinets.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures. Where Note d applies, the
    increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For storage and display quantities in Group M and storage quantities in Group S occupancies complying with Section 5003.11, see Table 5003.11.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    j. Quantities in this table shall be modified in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(5).|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 5003.8.3.
    b.

  • CFC § 414.2.5.1. High relevance — show source text

    Where Note d also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For corrosive, highly toxic and toxic materials stored or displayed in Group M occupancies or stored in Group S occupancies, see Section 414.2.5.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California Fire Code_.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2 of the_California Fire Code_.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 414.2.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity for storage, including applicable increases.
    c._ Reserved.
    d.**
    [SFM]** In other than Group L occupancies,maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprin-
    kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California

    Fire Code. Where Note d also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For corrosive, highly toxic and toxic materials stored or displayed in Group M occupancies or stored in Group S occupancies, see Section 414.2.5.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California Fire Code_.
    h. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    i. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2 of the_California Fire Code_.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
    a. For use of control areas, see Section 414.2.
    b. The aggregate quantity in use and storage shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity for storage, including applicable increases.
    c._ Reserved.
    d.**
    [SFM]** In other than Group L occupancies,maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprin-
    kler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where Note e also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    e. Maximum allowable quantities shall be increased 100 percent where stored in approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California

    Fire Code. Where Note d also applies, the increase for both notes shall be applied accumulatively.
    f. For corrosive, highly toxic and toxic materials stored or displayed in Group M occupancies or stored in Group S occupancies, see Section 414.2.5.1.
    g. Allowed only where stored in approved exhausted gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures as specified in the_California Fire Code_.
    h.

  • CFC § 5003.9.3 High relevance — show source text

    5003.9.3 Protection from vehicles. Guard posts or other approved means shall be provided to protect storage tanks and connected piping, valves and fittings; dispensing areas; and use areas subject to vehicular damage in accordance with Section 312.

    5003.9.4 Electrical wiring and equipment. Electrical wiring and equipment shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the California Electrical Code.

    5003.9.5 Static accumulation. Where processes or conditions exist where a flammable mixture could be ignited by static electricity, means shall be provided to prevent the accumulation of a static charge.

    5003.9.6 Protection from light. Materials that are sensitive to light shall be stored in containers designed to protect them from such exposure.

    5003.9.7 Shock padding. Materials that are shock sensitive shall be padded, suspended or otherwise protected against accidental dislodgement and dislodgement during seismic activity.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 50-17

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

    HAZARDOUS MATERIALS—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    5003.9.8 Separation of incompatible materials. Incompatible materials in storage and storage of materials that are incompatible with materials in use shall be separated where the stored materials are in containers having a capacity of more than 5 pounds (2 kg), 0.5 gallon (2 L) or any amount of compressed gases. Separation shall be accomplished by:

    1. Segregating incompatible materials in storage by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

    2. Isolating incompatible materials in storage by a noncombustible partition extending not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above and to the sides of the stored material.

    3. Storing liquid and solid materials in hazardous material storage cabinets.

    4. Storing compressed gases in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures in accordance with Sections 5003.8.5 and 5003.8.6.

    Materials that are incompatible shall not be stored within the same cabinet or exhausted enclosure.

    5003.9.9 Shelf storage. Shelving shall be of substantial construction, and shall be braced and anchored in accordance with the seismic design requirements of the California Building Code for the seismic design category in which the material is located. Shelving shall be treated, coated or constructed of materials that are compatible with the hazardous materials stored. Shelves shall be provided with a lip or guard where used for the storage of individual containers.

    Shelf storage of hazardous materials shall be maintained in an orderly manner.

    Exceptions:

    1. Storage in hazardous material storage cabinets or laboratory furniture specifically designed for such use.
    2. Storage of hazardous materials in amounts not requiring a permit in accordance with Section 5001.5.

    5003.9.10 Safety cans. Safety cans shall be listed in accordance with UL 30 where used to increase the maximum allowable quantities per control area of flammable or combustible liquids in accordance with Table 5003.1.1(1). Safety cans listed in accordance with UL 1313 are allowed for flammable and combustible liquids where not used to increase the maximum allowable quantities per control area and for other hazardous material liquids in accordance with the listing.

    5003.10 Handling and transportation. In addition to the requirements of Section 5003.2, the handling and transportation of hazardous materials in corridors or enclosures for stairways and ramps shall be in accordance with Sections 5003.10.1 through 5003.10.3.6.

  • CFC § 3.9 High relevance — show source text

    Where storage areas exceed 50,000 square feet in area, the maximum allowable quantities area is allowed to be increased by 2 percent for each 1,000 square feet of area in excess
    of 50,000 square feet, up to not more than 100 percent of the table amounts. Separation of control areas is not required. The aggregate amount shall not exceed 80,000 pounds.
    d. “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s) or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3.
    a. Control areas shall be separated from each other by not less than a 1-hour fire barrier.
    b. The building shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system with a minimum sprinkler design density of Ordinary Hazard Group 2 in the area
    where flammable gases are stored or displayed.
    c. Where storage areas exceed 50,000 square feet in area, the maximum allowable quantities area is allowed to be increased by 2 percent for each 1,000 square feet of area in excess
    of 50,000 square feet, up to not more than 100 percent of the table amounts. Separation of control areas is not required. The aggregate amount shall not exceed 80,000 pounds.
    d. “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s) or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3.
    a. Control areas shall be separated from each other by not less than a 1-hour fire barrier.
    b. The building shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system with a minimum sprinkler design density of Ordinary Hazard Group 2 in the area
    where flammable gases are stored or displayed.
    c. Where storage areas exceed 50,000 square feet in area, the maximum allowable quantities area is allowed to be increased by 2 percent for each 1,000 square feet of area in excess
    of 50,000 square feet, up to not more than 100 percent of the table amounts. Separation of control areas is not required. The aggregate amount shall not exceed 80,000 pounds.
    d. “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s) or less.|

    50-20 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    HAZARDOUS MATERIALS—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    5003.11.2.1 Fire protection and storage arrangements. Fire protection and container storage arrangements for quantities of Category 1B flammable gases permitted by Table 5003.11.2 shall be in accordance with the all of the following:

    1. Storage of Category 1B flammable gases on shelves shall not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) in height, and shelving shall be metal.
    2. Rack storage, pallet storage or piles of Category 1B flammable gas greater than 6 feet 6 inches (1981 mm) in height shall be provided with an automatic sprinkler system with a minimum design density of Extra Hazard Group 1.
    3. Combustible commodities shall not be stored above Category 1B flammable gases.
    4. Flammable liquids shall be separated from Category 1B flammable gases by a distance of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
  • CFC § 6203.1.1.3 High relevance — show source text

    6203.1.1.3 Group B, F, M or S occupancies. Unclassified detonable and Class I organic peroxides shall not be stored or used in offices, or retail sales areas of Group B, F, M or S occupancies.

    6203.1.1.4 Classrooms. In classrooms in Group B, F or M occupancies, any amount of unclassified detonable and Class I organic peroxides shall be stored in accordance with the following:

    1. Unclassified detonable and Class I organic peroxides shall be stored in hazardous materials storage cabinets complying with Section 5003.8.7.
    2. The hazardous materials storage cabinets shall not contain other storage.

    6203.2 Quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area. The storage and use of organic peroxides in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated in Section 5003.1 shall be in accordance with Chapter 50 and this chapter.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 62-3

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

    ORGANIC PEROXIDES

    SECTION 6204—STORAGE

    6204.1 Indoor storage. Indoor storage of organic peroxides in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area indicated in Table 5003.1.1(1) shall be in accordance with Sections 5001, 5003, 5004 and this chapter.

    Indoor storage of unclassified detonable organic peroxides that are capable of detonation in their normal shipping containers under conditions of fire exposure shall be stored in accordance with Chapter 56.

    6204.1.1 Detached storage. Storage of organic peroxides shall be in detached buildings where required by Section 5003.8.2.

    6204.1.2 Distance from detached buildings to exposures. In addition to the requirements of the California Building Code, detached storage buildings for Class I, II, III, IV and V organic peroxides shall be located in accordance with Table 6204.1.2. Detached buildings containing quantities of unclassified detonable organic peroxides in excess of those set forth in Table 5003.8.2 shall be located in accordance with Table 5604.5.2(1).

    TABLE 6204.1.2—ORGANIC PEROXIDES—DISTANCE TO EXPOSURES
    FROM DETACHED STORAGE BUILDINGS OR OUTDOOR STORAGE AREAS
    Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7
    ORGANIC
    PEROXIDE
    CLASS
    MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE MAXIMUM STORAGE QUANTITY (POUNDS) AT MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE
    ORGANIC
    PEROXIDE
    CLASS
    Distance to buildings, lot lines, public streets,
    public alleys, public ways or means of egress
    **Distance to buildings,
  • CFC § 415.10.3 High relevance — show source text

    [F] 415.10.3 Floors in storage rooms. Floors in storage areas for corrosive liquids and highly toxic or toxic materials shall be of liquid-tight, noncombustible construction.

    [F] 415.10.4 Separation of highly toxic solids and liquids. Highly toxic solids and liquids not stored in approved hazardous materials storage cabinets shall be isolated from other hazardous materials storage by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

    [F] 415.11 Group H-5. In addition to the requirements set forth elsewhere in this code, Group H-5 shall comply with the provisions of Sections 415.11.1 through 415.11.12 and the California Fire Code .

    [F] 415.11.1 Fabrication areas. Fabrication areas shall comply with Sections 415.11.1.1 through 415.11.1.8.

    [F] 415.11.1.1 Hazardous materials. The aggregate quantities of hazardous materials stored and used in a single fabrication area shall not exceed the quantities set forth in Table 415.11.1.1.

    Exception: The quantity limitations for any hazard category in Table 415.11.1.1 shall not apply where the fabrication area contains quantities of hazardous materials not exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area established by Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2).

    [F] TABLE 415.11.1.1—QUANTITY LIMITS FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIALS IN A SINGLE FABRICATION AREA IN GROUP H-5a Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    HAZARD CATEGORY HAZARD CATEGORY SOLIDS
    (pounds per square foot)
    LIQUIDS
    (gallons per square foot)
    GAS
    (cubic feet @ NTP/square foot)
    PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS PHYSICAL-HAZARD MATERIALS
    Combustible dust Combustible dust Note b Not Applicable Not Applicable
    Combustible fiber Loose Note b Not Applicable Not Applicable
    Combustible fiber Baled Notes b and c Notes b and c Notes b and c
    Combustible
    liquid
    II Not Applicable 0.02 Not Applicable
    Combustible
    liquid
    IIIA IIIA 0.04 0.04
    Combustible
    liquid
    IIIB IIIB Not Limited Not Limited
    Combination Class I, II and IIIA I, II and IIIA 0.08 0.08
    Cryogenic gas Flammable Not Applicable Not Applicable Note d
    Cryogenic gas Oxidizing Oxidizing Oxidizing 2.5
    Explosives Explosives Note b Note b Note b
    Flammable gas Gaseous Not Applicable Not Applicable Note d
    Flammable gas Liquefied Liquefied Liquefied Note d
    Flammable liquid IA Not Applicable 0.

Frequently asked questions

How much does using an approved storage cabinet increase allowable quantities?

Approved storage cabinets, gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures may allow a 100% increase to the maximum allowable quantities per the table notes (applies cumulatively with sprinkler increases where allowed) — see the Table 5003.1.1 notes and related text .

What separates control areas from each other?

Control areas are typically separated by not less than a 1‑hour fire barrier (see the control‑area notes and the control‑area use provisions in the 5003 series) and other provisions (sprinkler design, area limits) apply when control areas are combined or enlarged .

Where can I find outdoor control‑area distance and clearance requirements?

Outdoor control areas (locations, clearance to streets/lot lines, and exceptions using fire‑resistance‑rated walls or fire barriers) are addressed in Section 5003.12 and its exceptions .

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