CFC · California Fire Code

How to find maximum allowable quantities per control area and increases/exemptions

To determine how much of a hazardous material you may keep in a control area: look up the material’s baseline MAQ in Table 5003.1.1(1) or (2), multiply by the story/control-area percentage in §5003.8.3.2, then apply only the specific increases or exemptions allowed in the table footnotes or Table 5003.1.1(5). If totals exceed that adjusted MAQ, treat the area as exceeding limits and follow Chapter 50 and the applicable material chapter for required protections and permits.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

The maximum allowable quantity (MAQ) of a hazardous material in a single control area is established in the CFC tables Table 5003.1.1(1) and Table 5003.1.1(2); those table values are the baseline for every material/classification and are the numbers you must compare your onsite quantities against (see § 5003.8.3.2 and Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2)**) . Where a building level or story reduces the allowed percentage of that MAQ, apply the percentage in § 5003.8.3.2 (Table 5003.8.3.2). Footnotes to the MAQ tables provide allowed increases, and Table 5003.1.1(5) lists specific exemptions — always read the footnotes and the exemptions before concluding you may exceed a table value .

The single most important rule: start with the MAQ in Table 5003.1.1(1) or (2) for your material, then reduce by the control-area percentage in § 5003.8.3.2 and finally add only the increases that are explicitly allowed in that table’s footnotes or by specific exemptions in Table 5003.1.1(5) .

Requirements in detail

Step-by-step decision flow

  1. Identify the material classification (e.g., flammable liquid Class I/II/III, flammable gas, combustibles, toxics).
  2. Find the MAQ for that classification in Table 5003.1.1(1) (indoor control areas) or Table 5003.1.1(2) (other categories) — these are your baseline MAQs (see § 5003.8.3.2) .
  3. Determine the building story/control-area percentage from Table 5003.8.3.2 (percentages in § 5003.8.3.2). Multiply MAQ × percentage to get the allowed quantity for that story/control area .
  4. Review the MAQ table footnotes (conversion notes, allowed increases, application limits) and apply any allowed increases exactly as stated in those footnotes (for example: conversion of pounds to gallons per § 5003.1.2 is required where noted) .
  5. Check Table 5003.1.1(5) for exemptions that may exclude specific applications/materials from the MAQ limits (for example certain building materials or baled cotton packaging conditions) .
  6. If quantities exceed the adjusted MAQ, follow the code chapters that govern quantities exceeding the MAQ (Chapter 50 and the applicable material chapter) and the permit requirements in the code (see related sections referenced below) .

Quick reference table — decision-relevant items

Decision dimension What to check in the code Code Reference
Baseline MAQ for material/class Read the row for your hazard class in Table 5003.1.1(1) or Table 5003.1.1(2) Table 5003.1.1(1) / Table 5003.1.1(2); see § 5003.8.3.2
Story / control-area percentage Apply the percentage from the design table for the story (1st floor = higher %, upper floors lower %) § 5003.8.3.2 (Table 5003.8.3.2)
Table footnote increases and conversions Apply increases and unit conversions exactly as footnotes direct (e.g., pound→gallon per § 5003.1.2) Footnotes to Table 5003.1.1(1)/(2); see § 5003.1.2 and table notes
Exemptions (materials/applications) Confirm whether your material/application is exempt under Table 5003.1.1(5) before counting it toward MAQ Table 5003.1.1(5) (Hazardous Materials Exemptions)
Retail/wholesale display/storage increases For retail/wholesale conditions, special area-based increases may apply (see limits and cumulative caps) § 5704.3.4.2 (retail/wholesale increases and caps)
When quantities exceed adjusted MAQ Follow Chapter 50 and the applicable material chapter for higher quantities and required protections/permits Chapter 50 and material chapters; e.g., see § 5005.4.2 and related sections

What the control-area percentage table means

  • The percentages in § 5003.8.3.2 tell you what fraction of the MAQ from Tables 5003.1.1(1)/(2) may be present on each story of a building. For example, 1st story = 100%, 2nd story = 75%, 3rd story = 50%, etc., as given in Table 5003.8.3.2 — always multiply the MAQ by that percentage to get the allowed quantity for a control area on that story .

Exceptions & special cases

  • Nonflammable solids and nonflammable/noncombustible liquids displayed or stored in Group M or Group S retail/storage areas are allowed to exceed the MAQ from Tables 5003.1.1(1)/(2) provided the display/storage complies with Section 5003.11 — check § 5003.8.3.5.1 for the crossover allowance and conditions .
  • Some materials or packaged forms are specifically exempt from counting toward MAQ in Table 5003.1.1(5) — examples include certain densly packed baled cotton and common building materials that are classified as corrosives; always confirm the exact exemption language in the table before applying it .
  • Retail/warehouse areas larger than 50,000 sq ft may receive incremental increases (2% per 1,000 sq ft over 50,000) up to certain caps and subject to cumulative limits (see § 5704.3.4.2) — do not assume unlimited increases; the code caps cumulative increases and sets absolute caps (see the cited provision) .
  • Footnote-based increases in Tables 5003.1.1(1)/(2) must be applied exactly as written; some increases apply only when sprinklers are present, for outdoor storage, or for storage configuration (racked, palletized, cartoned) — check the specific footnote text in the table for the material you are evaluating (see table notes) .

Common mistakes

  • Treating Table values as “per building” rather than per control area. The tables set MAQs per control area; multiple control areas can exist but have limits on number and arrangement (see § 5003.8.3.3) .
  • Ignoring table footnotes and unit-conversion notes (e.g., pounds ↔ gallons) — the table footnotes change allowable quantities and how to compute them (see § 5003.1.2 note in the tables) .
  • Failing to apply the story percentage from § 5003.8.3.2 — the same MAQ may be reduced dramatically on upper floors. Always multiply by the control-area percentage for that story .
  • Assuming an exemption applies when it does not — Table 5003.1.1(5) is specific and limited; do not generalize an exemption beyond its exact language .
  • Forgetting cumulative limits for special increases (for example retail area increases have a cumulative cap and maximum gallons limits) — read the applicable material chapter (e.g., flammable liquids, § 5704.3.4.2) .

Worked example (formulaic, avoiding invented table numbers)

Scenario: You have a hazardous material classified in the table and you want to know how much may be stored in a control area on the 2nd floor.

  1. Look up the baseline MAQ for your material in Table 5003.1.1(1) (call that value MAQtable). (Step source: Table 5003.1.1(1) and Table notes) .
  2. From § 5003.8.3.2 (Table 5003.8.3.2) the 2nd-story percentage = 75%. Compute story-allowed quantity = MAQtable × 0.75 .
  3. Check the MAQ table footnotes for any additional increases that apply to your material (for example sprinkler-based increases, storage configuration increases, etc.). If the footnote permits a multiplier I (for example +50% where sprinklered), apply that increase explicitly as directed by the footnote: adjusted-MAQ = MAQtable × (story percentage) + (allowed increases per footnote) — implement the math exactly as the footnote prescribes (some are additive amounts, some are multipliers). See the table footnotes and § 5003.1.2 for unit conversions if needed .
  4. Verify no exemption in Table 5003.1.1(5) applies that would remove the quantity from MAQ accounting; if exempt, the material may not be limited by the table (but other code requirements still apply) .
  5. If the result is exceeded on site, you must treat the area as exceeding MAQ and follow Chapter 50 and the specific material chapter for required separation, fire-resistance, and permits (see Chapter 50 references and § 5005.4.2) .

(Notes: I used symbolic MAQtable because the numeric MAQ for each material class is specified in the tables in the code; consult the row for your exact classification in Table 5003.1.1(1) or (2) to get the numeric MAQ before applying the steps above.)

Related provisions (read these next)

  • Control-area percentages/design and fire-resistance: § 5003.8.3.2 (Table 5003.8.3.2)
  • Number of control areas and separation: § 5003.8.3.3 and § 5003.8.3.4 (fire-resistance and construction)
  • Table of hazardous materials exemptions: Table 5003.1.1(5) (see table entries and notes)
  • Unit conversion and table footnote rules: § 5003.1.2 and the footnotes to Table 5003.1.1(1)/(2)
  • Retail/wholesale area increases and special caps for flammable liquids: § 5704.3.4.2 (retail/wholesale increases and cumulative limits)
  • Handling quantities and where to look when amounts do not exceed MAQ: § 5005.4.2 (handling not exceeding MAQ)

Code references

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

  • CFC § 5003.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    Percentages shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2), with all increases allowed in the footnotes to those tables.
    b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the building.|a. Percentages shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2), with all increases allowed in the footnotes to those tables.
    b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the building.|a. Percentages shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2), with all increases allowed in the footnotes to those tables.
    b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the building.|a. Percentages shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2), with all increases allowed in the footnotes to those tables.
    b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the building.|

    5003.8.3.3 Number. The maximum number of control areas per floor within a building shall be in accordance with Table 5003.8.3.2. For the purposes of determining the number of control areas within a building, each portion of a building separated by one or more fire walls complying with Section 706 of the California Building Code shall be considered a separate building.

    5003.8.3.4 Fire-resistance-rating requirements. The required fire-resistance rating for fire barriers shall be in accordance with Table 5003.8.3.2. The floor assembly of the control area and the construction supporting the floor of the control area shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours.

    Exception: The floor assembly of the control area and the construction supporting the floor of the control area is allowed to be 1hour fire-resistance rated in buildings of Types IIA, IIIA, IV and VA construction, provided that both of the following conditions exist:

    1. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
    2. The building is three stories or less above grade plane.

    5003.8.3.5 Hazardous materials in Group M display and storage areas and in Group S storage areas. Hazardous materials located in Group M and Group S occupancies shall be in accordance with Sections 5003.8.3.5.1 through 5003.8.3.5.4.

    5003.8.3.5.1 Nonflammable solids and nonflammable and noncombustible liquids. The aggregate quantity of nonflammable solid and nonflammable or noncombustible liquid hazardous materials allowed within a single control area of a Group M display and storage area or a Group S storage area is allowed to exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area specified in Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2) without classifying the building or use as a Group H occupancy, provided that the materials are displayed and stored in accordance with Section 5003.11.

  • CFC § 3.785 High relevance — show source text

    454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b.

  • CFC § 0.02832 High relevance — show source text

    Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.

  • 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. The aggregate quantities in storage and use shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantity for storage, including applicable increases.
    c.

  • CFC § 0.02832 High relevance — show source text

    000|2,000|Gaseous
    1,620
    Liquefied
    (300)|10,000|1,000|Gaseous 810
    Liquefied
    (150)|1,000|100| |Highly toxics|20|(20)|Gaseous 40d
    Liquefied
    (8)d|10|(10)|Gaseous 20d
    Liquefied
    (4)d|3|(3)| |Toxics|1,000|(l,000)e|Gaseous
    1,620
    Liquefied
    (300)|500|50e|Gaseous 810
    Liquefied
    (150)|125|(125)e| |For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a.

  • CFC § 3.9 High relevance — show source text

    “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s). “Low BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity of 3.9 in/s or less.|For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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. Quantities in parentheses indicate quantity units in parentheses at the head of each column.
    e. “High BV” Category 1B flammable gas has a burning velocity greater than 3.9 in/s (10 cm/s).

  • CFC § 5003.11. High relevance — show source text

    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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a. For gallons of liquids, divide the amount in pounds by 10 in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
    b. 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.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m3, 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch absolute = 6.895 kPa,°C = (°F – 32)/1.8.
    a.

  • CFC § 1.4 High relevance — show source text

    Limited to Division 1.4 materials and articles, including articles packaged for shipment, that are not regulated as an explosive under Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and
    Explosives regulations, or unpackaged articles used in process operations that do not propagate a detonation or deflagration between articles, providing the net explosive
    weight of individual articles does not exceed 1 pound.
    d. Detached buildings are not required for gases in gas rooms that support H-5 fabrication facilities where the gas room is separated from other areas by a fire barrier with a fire-
    resistance rating of not less than 2 hours and the gas is located in a gas cabinet that is internally sprinklered, equipped with continuous leak detection, automatic shutdown,
    and is not manifolded upstream of pressure controls. The gas supply is limited to cylinders that do not exceed 125 pounds water capacity in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR
    173.192 for Hazard Zone A toxic gases.
    e. Does not apply to consumer fireworks, Division 1.4G.|

    5003.8.3 Control areas. Control areas shall comply with Sections 5003.8.3.1 through 5003.8.3.5.3.

    5003.8.3.1 Construction requirements. Control areas shall be separated from each other by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

    5003.8.3.2 Percentage of maximum allowable quantities. The percentage of maximum allowable quantities of hazardous materials per control area allowed at each story within a building shall be in accordance with Table 5003.8.3.2.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 50-15

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

    HAZARDOUS MATERIALS—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    TABLE 5003.8.3.2—DESIGN AND NUMBER OF CONTROL AREAS Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    STORY STORY PERCENTAGE OF THE
    MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE
    QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREAa    		 NUMBER OF CONTROL
    AREAS PER STORY    		 FIRE-RESISTANCE
    RATING FOR FIRE
    BARRIERS IN HOURSb
    Above grade plane Higher than 9
    7–9
    6
    5
    4
    3
    2
    1    		 5
    5
    12.5
    12.5
    12.5
    50
    75
    100    		 1
    2
    2
    2
    2
    2
    3
    4    		 2
    2
    2
    2
    2
    1
    1
    1
    Below grade plane 1
    2
    Lower than 2    		 75
    50
    Not Allowed    		 3
    2
    Not Allowed    		 1
    1
    Not Allowed
    a. Percentages shall be of the maximum allowable quantity per control area shown in Tables 5003.1.1(1) and 5003.1.1(2), with all increases allowed in the footnotes to those tables.
    b. Separation shall include fire barriers and horizontal assemblies as necessary to provide separation from other portions of the building.    		 a.
  • CFC § 0.21 High relevance — show source text

    For cartoned, palletized or racked commodities where storage is 4 feet 6 inches or less in height and where the ceiling height does not exceed 18 feet, quantities are
    those allowed with a minimum sprinkler design density of 0.21 gallon per minute per square foot over the most remote 1,500-square-foot area.
    c. Where wholesale and retail sales or storage areas exceed 50,000 square feet in area, the maximum allowable quantities are 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. A control area separation is not required. The cumulative
    amounts, including amounts attained by having an additional control area, shall not exceed 30,000 gallons.|

    57-18 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

    FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS

    5704.3.4.2 Occupancy quantity limits. The following limits for quantities of stored flammable or combustible liquids shall not be exceeded:

    1. Group A occupancies: Quantities in Group A occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

    2. Group B occupancies: Quantities in drinking, dining, office and school uses within Group B occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

    3. Group E occupancies: Quantities in Group E occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

    4. Group F occupancies: Quantities in dining, office, and school uses within Group F occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

    5. Group I occupancies: Quantities in Group I occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

    6. Group M occupancies: Quantities in dining, office, and school uses within Group M occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1). The maximum allowable quantities for storage in wholesale and retail sales areas shall be in accordance with Section 5704.3.4.1.

    7. Group R occupancies: Quantities in Group R occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

    8. Group S occupancies: Quantities in dining and office uses within Group S occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

Frequently asked questions

How do I find the numeric MAQ for my specific material?

Open Table 5003.1.1(1) (indoor control-area table) or Table 5003.1.1(2) and read the row matching your hazard classification; those table entries are the baseline MAQ you must use (see § 5003.8.3.2) .

What if my material is listed in Table 5003.1.1(5)?

Table 5003.1.1(5) lists specific exemptions and limited applications; if your material and use exactly match an exemption entry, it may be excluded from the MAQ accounting — but other requirements (storage, handling, permits) still apply, so read the exemption text carefully .

Can I rely on sprinklering to increase allowable amounts?

Possibly — some footnotes to Tables 5003.1.1(1)/(2) allow increases when automatic sprinkler protection or specific storage configurations are provided. Apply only the increases explicitly written in the footnotes; check the exact footnote language and any related sections (see table notes and § 5003.1.2) .

What if my quantities exceed the control-area limit after adjustments?

If adjusted quantities exceed the MAQ for a control area, the storage/use must comply with the sections for quantities exceeding the MAQ (Chapter 50 and the applicable material chapter) — you will generally need additional protections, separation, or a different occupancy classification and permits .

Where do the story-percentage numbers come from?

The story percentages (e.g., 100% first story, 75% second story, 50% third story, etc.) are listed in Table 5003.8.3.2 under § 5003.8.3.2; always use these percentages when calculating control-area allowances by story .

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