CFC · California Fire Code
What tests and smoke/critical radiant flux limits apply to interior floor finish and coverings?
Floor coverings in corridors, exits and similar spaces must be tested per ASTM E648 (critical radiant flux) and meet **Class I (≥0.45 W/cm²)** or **Class II (≥0.22 W/cm²)** as required by the occupancy; they must also have an ASTM E662 smoke rating ≤ **450**. Group I‑2/I‑3 restraint areas require noncombustible finishes unless sprinklered (see §§ 804.3.3.1–.3.3.3) file.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
New interior floor finish and floor covering materials must be tested for critical radiant flux and visible smoke generation and meet minimum limits established by the California Fire Code. The controlling rules are § 804.3.3.1, § 804.3.3.2 and the Group I‑2/I‑3 special rule § 804.3.3.3; these require compliance with the ASTM floor‑covering radiant panel standard and limit specific optical‑density smoke to not more than 450 (ASTM E662) in most situations .
The single most important rule: floor coverings in exits, corridors and other egress‑related spaces must be tested per ASTM E648 (or NFPA 253) and meet the minimum Class I or Class II critical radiant flux plus a smoke rating ≤ 450 as required by the occupancy-specific sections (§ 804.3.3.1–.3.3.3) .
Requirements in detail
Which tests apply (standards and smoke limit)
- Required performance test: ASTM E648 (also referenced as NFPA 253) — the floor‑covering radiant panel (critical radiant flux) test; classification thresholds are defined in § 804.3.1 and used by § 804.3.3.2 .
- Required smoke test: ASTM E662 (specific optical density). The specific optical density smoke rating shall not exceed 450 for interior floor finish and coverings as stated in § 804.3.3.1 .
- Carpets and padding: where tested, carpet and padding must be tested together as a unit in the floor‑covering radiant panel test when required by the occupancy rules (see § 804.3.3.3) .
Minimum critical radiant flux (where it applies)
The CFC requires minimum critical radiant flux values (ASTM E648/NFPA 253 classifications) for floor coverings in egress‑related spaces and certain occupancies. Key decision factors are occupancy group and whether the space communicates with corridors (full‑height partitions or not).
| Decision factor / dimension | Required limit (critical radiant flux) | Smoke requirement | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groups I‑2 & I‑3 (where restraint is NOT used) and R‑2.1 | Class I (≥ 0.45 W/cm²) | ASTM E662 ≤ 450 | § 804.3.3.2 |
| Groups A, B, E, H, I‑4, M, R‑1, R‑2, R‑2.2, S | Class II (≥ 0.22 W/cm²) | ASTM E662 ≤ 450 | § 804.3.3.2 |
| All occupancies — general test requirement | Tested per ASTM E648 / NFPA 253 | ASTM E662 ≤ 450 | § 804.3.3.1 |
| Group I‑2 / I‑3 areas where inmates/patients are restrained | Noncombustible floor surfaces required (carpet only allowed with sprinkler protection) | If carpet used under sprinkler exception: Class I (≥0.45 W/cm²) and ASTM E662 ≤ 450; carpet+pads tested as a unit | § 804.3.3.3 |
| Floor‑wall base (≤ 6 in.) | Class II (or Class I where Class I floor finish required) — Class I = 0.45 W/cm²; Class II = 0.22 W/cm² | ASTM E648 classification applies | § 804.4 (referenced within code) |
Notes:
- The code ties the numeric Class limits to ASTM/NFPA classifications: Class I = 0.45 W/cm², Class II = 0.22 W/cm² (see § 804.3.1) .
- Manufacturers must identify the product and classification (hang‑tag or similar) and provide test reports upon request (testing and identification requirements are described in § 804.3.2) .
Testing and labeling requirements (practical points)
- Products must be tested by an approved agency to ASTM E648 (or NFPA 253) and identified by hang‑tag or other marking showing manufacturer/style and classification (see § 804.3.2) .
- Carpet plus padding must be tested as a unit when carpet is being used in regulated occupancies/locations (specified in § 804.3.3.3) .
Exceptions & special cases
- Sprinklered buildings: where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system (per § 903.3.1.1 or § 903.3.1.2), the CFC allows Class II materials where Class I would otherwise be required, and materials meeting ASTM E648 and smoke ≤450 are permitted where Class II is required (see the exception in § 804.3.3.2) .
- Group I‑2 / I‑3 (detention/healthcare with restraint): noncombustible floor finish is required for areas occupied by inmates or restrained patients. Carpet is allowed only under the sprinkler exception, and then must meet Class I (≥0.45 W/cm²) and smoke ≤450, with carpet+padding tested as a unit and labeled accordingly (§ 804.3.3.3) .
- Traditional resilient finishes (wood, vinyl, linoleum, terrazzo) and non‑fibrous resilient floor coverings are excepted from some new‑finish provisions (see cross‑exceptions referenced in § 804.3) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming only ASTM E648 applies and ignoring the smoke limit. Both ASTM E648 classification and ASTM E662 ≤ 450 are required by § 804.3.3.1 — you must meet both tests .
- Using manufacturer carpet listings without a hang‑tag/test report for the exact product + padding configuration. Carpeting must be tested “as proposed for use” (including padding) and identified per § 804.3.2 and § 804.3.3.3 file.
- Forgetting sprinkler exceptions: designers sometimes assume Class I is mandatory even in fully sprinklered buildings — the code allows Class II where Class I would be required if the building is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system (§ 804.3.3.2 exception) .
- Applying the wrong occupancy requirement: Group I‑2/I‑3 areas with restraint require noncombustible surfaces unless the sprinkler exception applies; do not apply the standard Class I/II table blindly — check § 804.3.3.3 .
Worked example
Scenario: You are specifying a carpet for a health‑care corridor in a hospital (Group I‑2). The corridor is an exit corridor not separated from rooms by full‑height partitions.
- Identify occupancy/space rule: For Group I‑2 corridors, § 804.3.3.2 requires at least Class I (≥0.45 W/cm²) unless the area is one where restraint is used; also § 804.3.3.1 requires smoke ≤ 450 per ASTM E662 .
- Product data: Manufacturer provides an ASTM E648 report showing critical radiant flux = 0.35 W/cm² for carpet+padding (tested as a unit) and ASTM E662 specific optical density = 350.
- 0.35 W/cm² is below Class I (0.45) but above Class II (0.22). Because the corridor requires Class I for I‑2 corridors where restraint is not used, this product fails the Class I requirement. Smoke (350) meets the ≤450 limit.
- Options:
- Use a carpet system with a tested carpet+pad assembly ≥ 0.45 W/cm² and smoke ≤ 450, and provide the hang‑tag/test report per § 804.3.2 — acceptable.
- If the entire building is protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system meeting § 903.3.1.1/1.2, the code permits Class II in areas where Class I would otherwise be required (exception to § 804.3.3.2); under that exception the 0.35 W/cm² carpet would be allowed provided ASTM E662 ≤ 450 and other labeling/testing requirements are met .
- If the corridor is in an I‑2 area where patients are restrained (different subcase), noncombustible finishes are required per § 804.3.3.3 unless the sprinkler exception is applied (and then carpet must be Class I and smoke ≤450) .
Related provisions (other CFC sections to check)
- § 804.3.1 — Classification and numeric Class limits (Class I = 0.45 W/cm²; Class II = 0.22 W/cm²) .
- § 804.3.2 — Testing and identification (hang‑tag, test report, carpet tested as proposed for use) .
- § 804.4 family (in some code variations) — parallel interior floor finish requirements and floor‑wall base rules (see referenced code excerpts) .
- Referenced test standards: ASTM E648 / NFPA 253 (critical radiant flux) and ASTM E662 (specific optical density) — see the referenced standards list in the Fire Code .
If you want, I can:
- Review a specific manufacturer test report and tell you whether it meets § 804.3.3.1–.3.3.3 for a given occupancy, or
- Draft sample specification text and required labeling language to give to the installer.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 804.4 High relevance — show source text
804.4 Interior floor finish requirements. Interior floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.4.1 and 804.4.2 and interior floor finish materials shall comply with Section 804.4.3 .
804.4.1 Test requirement. In all occupancies, interior floor finish and interior floor covering materials shall comply with the requirements of the ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662. For Group I-3 occupancies and Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.4.3.
804.4.2 Minimum critical radiant flux. In all occupancies, interior floor finish and floor covering materials in enclosures for stairways and ramps, exit passageways, corridors and rooms or spaces not separated from corridors by partitions extending from the floor to the underside of the ceiling shall withstand a minimum critical radiant flux. The minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I in Groups I-2 and I-3 areas where restraint is not used and R-2.1 and not less than Class II in Groups A, B, E, H, I-4, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.2 and S . For Group I-3 areas occupied by inmates or Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.4.3.
Exception: Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, Class II materials are permitted in any area where Class I materials are required, and materials complying with ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662 are permitted in any area where Class II materials are required.
8-6 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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INTERIOR FINISHES
804.4.3 Group I-2 and Group I-3 occupancy floor surfaces. Interior floor finish and floor coverings occupied by inmates or patients whose personal liberties are restrained shall be noncombustible.
Exception: Carpet or other floor covering materials may be used in areas protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Carpet or other floor coverings shall comply with the requirements of ASTM Stan- dard E648; the minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I and the specific optical density smoke rating shall not exceed 450 per ASTM E662. Carpeting and carpet padding shall be tested as a unit in accordance with floor covering radiant panel test meeting class 1 and has a critical radiant flux limit of not less than 0.45 watt per centimeter square. The carpeting and padding shall be identified by a hang-tag or other suitable method as to manufacturer and style and shall indicate the classifica- tion of the material based on the limits set forth above.
SECTION 805—COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS IN TYPES I AND II CONSTRUCTION
805.1 Application. Combustible materials installed on or embedded in floors of buildings of Type I or II construction shall comply with Sections 805.1.1 through 805.1.3.
Exception: Stages and platforms constructed in accordance with Sections 410.2 and 410.3, respectively.
CFC § 803.1.1.1 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Where the interior trim material has been tested as an interior finish in accordance with NFPA 286 and complies with the acceptance criteria in Section 803.1.1.1, it is not required to be tested for flame spread index in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
804.3 New interior floor finish. New interior floor finish and floor covering materials in new and existing buildings shall comply with Sections 804.3.1 through 804.3.3.2.
Exception: Floor finishes and coverings of a traditional type, such as wood, vinyl, linoleum or terrazzo, and resilient floor covering materials that are not composed of fibers.
804.3.1 Classification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials required by Section 804.3.3.2 to be of Class I or II materials shall be classified in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253. The classification referred to herein corresponds to the classifications determined by ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 as follows: Class I, 0.45 watts/cm [2] or greater; Class II, 0.22 watts/cm [2] or greater.
804.3.2 Testing and identification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall be tested by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 and identified by a hang tag or other suitable method so as to identify the manufacturer or supplier and style, and shall indicate the interior floor finish or floor covering classification in accordance with Section 804.3.1. Carpet-type floor coverings shall be tested as proposed for use, including underlayment. Test reports confirming the information provided in the manufacturer’s product identification shall be furnished to the fire code official upon request.
804.3.3 Interior floor finish requirements. New interior floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.3.3.1 and 804.3.3.2, and interior floor finish materials shall comply with Section 804.3.1.
804.3.3.1 Test requirement. In all occupancies, interior floor finish and interior floor covering materials shall comply with the requirements of ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662. For Group I-3 occupancies and Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.3.3.3.
804.3.3.2 Minimum critical radiant flux. In all occupancies, new interior floor finish and floor covering materials in enclosures for stairways and ramps, exit passageways, corridors and rooms or spaces not separated from corridors by full-height partitions extending from the floor to the underside of the ceiling shall withstand a minimum critical radiant flux. The minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I in Groups I-2 and I-3 areas where restraint is not used and R-2.1 and not less than Class II in Groups A, B, E, H, I-4, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.2 and S.
Exception: Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, Class II materials shall be permitted in any area where Class I materials are required and materials complying with ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662 are permitted in any area where Class II materials are required.
CFC § 804.3.3 High relevance — show source text
804.3.3 Interior floor finish requirements. New interior floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.3.3.1 and 804.3.3.2, and interior floor finish materials shall comply with Section 804.3.1.
804.3.3.1 Test requirement. In all occupancies, interior floor finish and interior floor covering materials shall comply with the requirements of ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662. For Group I-3 occupancies and Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.3.3.3.
804.3.3.2 Minimum critical radiant flux. In all occupancies, new interior floor finish and floor covering materials in enclosures for stairways and ramps, exit passageways, corridors and rooms or spaces not separated from corridors by full-height partitions extending from the floor to the underside of the ceiling shall withstand a minimum critical radiant flux. The minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I in Groups I-2 and I-3 areas where restraint is not used and R-2.1 and not less than Class II in Groups A, B, E, H, I-4, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.2 and S.
Exception: Where a building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, Class II materials shall be permitted in any area where Class I materials are required and materials complying with ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662 are permitted in any area where Class II materials are required.
For Group I-3 areas occupied by inmates or Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.3.3.3.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 8-7
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
804.3.3.3 Group I-2 and Group I-3 floor surfaces. Interior floor finish and floor coverings occupied by inmates or patients whose personal liberties are restrained shall be noncombustible. Carpet or other floor covering materials may be used in areas protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Carpet or other floor coverings shall comply with the requirements of ASTM Standard E648; the minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I and the specific optical density smoke rating shall not exceed 450 per ASTM E662. Carpeting and carpet padding shall be tested as a unit in accordance with floor covering radiant panel test meeting Class 1 and has a critical radiant flux limit of not less than 0.45 watt per centimeter square. The carpeting and padding shall be identified by a hang-tag or other suitable method as to manufacturer and style and shall indicate the classification of the material based on the limits set forth above.
CFC § 803.1.1 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
Noncombustible interior finish materials.
Materials that meet the requirements of Class A materials in accordance with Section 803.1.1 or 803.1.2 where the qualifying tests were made with the material furred out from the noncombustible backing shall be permitted to be used with furring strips.
Materials that meet the requirements of Class A materials in accordance with Section 803.1.1 or 803.1.2 where the qualifying tests were made with the material suspended away from the noncombustible backing shall be permitted to be used suspended away from the building element.
SECTION 804—INTERIOR FLOOR FINISH
804.1 General. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.2 through 804.4.2.
Exception: In areas except Groups I-2 with detention and I-3, floor finishes and coverings of a traditional type, such as wood, vinyl, linoleum or terrazzo, and resilient floor covering materials that are not composed of fibers.
804.2 Classification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials required by Section 804.4.2 to be of Class I or II materials shall be classified in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253. The classification referred to herein corresponds to the classifications determined by ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 as follows: Class I, 0.45 watts/cm [2] or greater; Class II, 0.22 watts/cm [2] or greater.
804.3 Testing and identification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall be tested by an agency in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 and identified by a hang tag or other suitable method so as to identify the manufacturer or supplier and style, and shall indicate the interior floor finish or floor covering classification in accordance with Section 804.2. Carpet-type floor coverings shall be tested as proposed for use, including underlayment. Test reports confirming the information provided in the manufacturer’s product identification shall be furnished to the building official on request.
804.4 Interior floor finish requirements. Interior floor covering materials shall comply with Sections 804.4.1 and 804.4.2 and interior floor finish materials shall comply with Section 804.4.3 .
804.4.1 Test requirement. In all occupancies, interior floor finish and interior floor covering materials shall comply with the requirements of the ASTM Standard E648, and having a specific optical density smoke rating not to exceed 450 per ASTM E662. For Group I-3 occupancies and Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.4.3.
804.4.2 Minimum critical radiant flux. In all occupancies, interior floor finish and floor covering materials in enclosures for stairways and ramps, exit passageways, corridors and rooms or spaces not separated from corridors by partitions extending from the floor to the underside of the ceiling shall withstand a minimum critical radiant flux. The minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I in Groups I-2 and I-3 areas where restraint is not used and R-2.1 and not less than Class II in Groups A, B, E, H, I-4, M, R-1, R-2, R-2.2 and S . For Group I-3 areas occupied by inmates or Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.4.3.
CFC § 804.1.1 High relevance — show source text
804.1.1 Testing in accordance with NFPA 286. Interior trim material shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 286 and comply with the acceptance criteria in Section 803.1.1.1. Where the interior trim material has been tested as an interior finish in accordance with NFPA 286 and complies with the acceptance criteria in Section 803.1.1.1, it shall not be required to be tested for flame spread index and smoke-developed index in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
804.1.2 Testing in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Material, other than foam plastic, used as interior trim shall have minimum Class C flame spread and smoke-developed indices, when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, as described in Section 803.1.2.
804.2 Foam plastic interior trim. Foam plastic used as interior trim shall comply with Sections 804.2.1 through 804.2.4. 804.2.1 Density. The minimum density of the interior trim shall be 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m [3] ). 804.2.2 Thickness. The maximum thickness of the interior trim shall be [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) and the maximum width shall be 8 inches (203 mm).
804.2.3 Area limitation. The interior trim shall not constitute more than 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which it is attached.
804.2.4 Flame spread. The flame spread index shall not exceed 75 where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. The smoke-developed index shall not be limited.
Exception: Where the interior trim material has been tested as an interior finish in accordance with NFPA 286 and complies with the acceptance criteria in Section 803.1.1.1, it is not required to be tested for flame spread index in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
804.3 New interior floor finish. New interior floor finish and floor covering materials in new and existing buildings shall comply with Sections 804.3.1 through 804.3.3.2.
Exception: Floor finishes and coverings of a traditional type, such as wood, vinyl, linoleum or terrazzo, and resilient floor covering materials that are not composed of fibers.
804.3.1 Classification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials required by Section 804.3.3.2 to be of Class I or II materials shall be classified in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253. The classification referred to herein corresponds to the classifications determined by ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 as follows: Class I, 0.45 watts/cm [2] or greater; Class II, 0.22 watts/cm [2] or greater.
804.3.2 Testing and identification. Interior floor finish and floor covering materials shall be tested by an approved agency in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 and identified by a hang tag or other suitable method so as to identify the manufacturer or supplier and style, and shall indicate the interior floor finish or floor covering classification in accordance with Section 804.3.1. Carpet-type floor coverings shall be tested as proposed for use, including underlayment. Test reports confirming the information provided in the manufacturer’s product identification shall be furnished to the fire code official upon request.
CFC § 8-6 High relevance — show source text
8-6 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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INTERIOR FINISHES
804.4.3 Group I-2 and Group I-3 occupancy floor surfaces. Interior floor finish and floor coverings occupied by inmates or patients whose personal liberties are restrained shall be noncombustible.
Exception: Carpet or other floor covering materials may be used in areas protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Carpet or other floor coverings shall comply with the requirements of ASTM Stan- dard E648; the minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I and the specific optical density smoke rating shall not exceed 450 per ASTM E662. Carpeting and carpet padding shall be tested as a unit in accordance with floor covering radiant panel test meeting class 1 and has a critical radiant flux limit of not less than 0.45 watt per centimeter square. The carpeting and padding shall be identified by a hang-tag or other suitable method as to manufacturer and style and shall indicate the classifica- tion of the material based on the limits set forth above.
SECTION 805—COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS IN TYPES I AND II CONSTRUCTION
805.1 Application. Combustible materials installed on or embedded in floors of buildings of Type I or II construction shall comply with Sections 805.1.1 through 805.1.3.
Exception: Stages and platforms constructed in accordance with Sections 410.2 and 410.3, respectively.
805.1.1 Subfloor construction. Floor sleepers, bucks and nailing blocks shall not be constructed of combustible materials, unless the space between the fire-resistance-rated floor assembly and the flooring is either solidly filled with noncombustible materials or fireblocked in accordance with Section 718, and provided that such open spaces shall not extend under or through permanent partitions or walls.
805.1.2 Wood finish flooring. Wood finish flooring is permitted to be attached directly to the embedded or fireblocked wood sleepers and shall be permitted where cemented directly to the top surface of fire-resistance-rated floor assemblies or directly to a wood subfloor attached to sleepers as provided for in Section 805.1.1. 805.1.3 Insulating boards. Combustible insulating boards not more than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) thick and covered with finish flooring are permitted where attached directly to a noncombustible floor assembly or to wood subflooring attached to sleepers as provided for in Section 805.1.1.
SECTION 806—DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND TRIM
[F] 806.1 General. The following requirements shall apply to all occupancies:
Furnishings or decorative materials of an explosive or highly flammable character shall not be used.
Fire-retardant coatings in existing buildings shall be maintained so as to retain the effectiveness of the treatment under service conditions encountered in actual use.
Furnishings or other objects shall not be placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom or visibility thereof.
The permissible amount of decorative vegetation and noncombustible decorative materials shall not be limited.
CFC § 804.3.1 High relevance — show source text
253—23: Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
804.3.1, 804.3.2, 804.4
260— 24 : Standard Methods of Tests and Classification System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Upholstered Furniture
805.1.1.1, 805.2.1.1, 805.3.1.1, 805.4.1.1
261—23: Standard Method of Test for Determining Resistance of Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Material Assemblies to Ignition by Smoldering Cigarettes
805.1.1.1, 805.2.1.1, 805.3.1.1, 805.4.1.1
265—23: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of Textile or Expanded Vinyl Wall Coverings on Full Height Panels and Walls
803.5.1, 803.5.1.1
286— 24 : Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth
803.1, 803.1.1, 803.1.1.1, 803.3, 803.12, 803.13, 804.1.1, 804.2.4
289—23: Standard Method of Fire Test for Individual Fuel Packages
807.3, 807.4.1, 807.5.1.1, 808.2
303—21: Fire Protection Standard for Marinas and Boatyards
3603.5, 3603.6, 3604.2
318— 25 : Standard for the Protection of Semiconductor Fabrication Facilities
2703.16
326— 25 : Standard for the Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for Entry, Cleaning, or Repair
3510.1
385—22: Standard for Tank Vehicles for Flammable and Combustible Liquids
5706.5.4.5, 5706.6, 5706.6.1, 5707.2
400— 25 : Hazardous Materials Code
5601.1.5, Table 6303.1.4, 6304.1.2, Table 6304.1.5(1), Table 6304.1.5(2)
407—22: Standard for Aircraft Fuel Servicing
2006.2, 2006.3
409—22: Standard on Aircraft Hangars 914.8.3, Table 914.8.3, 914.8.3.1, 914.8.6
410— 25 : Standard on Aircraft Maintenance
2004.7
484—22: Standard for Combustible Metals
319.3.4, 319.3.6, Table 2205.1
495—23: Explosive Materials Code
CFC § 804.3.3.3. High relevance — show source text
For Group I-3 areas occupied by inmates or Group I-2 areas where patients are restrained, see Section 804.3.3.3.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 8-7
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
804.3.3.3 Group I-2 and Group I-3 floor surfaces. Interior floor finish and floor coverings occupied by inmates or patients whose personal liberties are restrained shall be noncombustible. Carpet or other floor covering materials may be used in areas protected by an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Carpet or other floor coverings shall comply with the requirements of ASTM Standard E648; the minimum critical radiant flux shall be not less than Class I and the specific optical density smoke rating shall not exceed 450 per ASTM E662. Carpeting and carpet padding shall be tested as a unit in accordance with floor covering radiant panel test meeting Class 1 and has a critical radiant flux limit of not less than 0.45 watt per centimeter square. The carpeting and padding shall be identified by a hang-tag or other suitable method as to manufacturer and style and shall indicate the classification of the material based on the limits set forth above.
804.4 Interior floor-wall base. Interior floor-wall base that is 6 inches (152 mm) or less in height shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 and shall be not less than Class II. Where a Class I floor finish is required, the floor-wall base shall be Class I. The classification referred to herein corresponds to the classifications determined by ASTM E648 or NFPA 253 as follows: Class I, 0.45 watt/cm [2] or greater; Class II, 0.22 watts/cm [2] or greater.
Exception: Interior trim materials that comply with Section 804.1.
SECTION 805—UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE AND MATTRESSES IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
805.1 Reserved.
805.2 Group I-2 and Group B ambulatory care facilities. The requirements in Sections 805.2.1 through 805.2.2 shall apply to Group I-2 occupancies and Group B ambulatory care facilities.
805.2.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.2.1.1 through 805.2.1.3.
805.2.1.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accordance with one of the following: (a) mocked-up composites of the upholstered furniture shall have a char length not exceeding 1.5 inches (38 mm) when tested in accordance with NFPA 261 or (b) the components of the upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements for Class I when tested in accordance with NFPA 260.
Exception: Upholstered furniture belonging to the patients in sleeping rooms of Group I-2, Condition 1 occupancies, provided that a smoke detector is installed in such rooms. Battery-powered, single-station smoke alarms shall be allowed.
CFC § 914.3.1.2 High relevance — show source text
D3278—21: Test Methods for Flash Point of Liquids by Small Scale Closed-Cup Apparatus
202
D3498—03(2011): Standard Specification for Adhesives for Field-Gluing Plywood to Lumber Framing for Floor Systems
701.6, 914.3.1.2, 3303.5
E84—21a: Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
202, 803.1, 803.1.2, 803.3, 803.5.2, 803.10, 803.12, 803.13, 804.1.1, 804.1.2, 804.2.4, 3311.1
E108— 2020a : Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings
1207.9.5
E648—19ae1: Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
804.3.1, 804.3.2, 804.4
E681—09(2015): Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals (Vapors and Gases)
202
E1354—22: Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
304.3.2, 304.3.4, 318.1, 2310.5.3, 3304.1.3, 3311.1, 3603.4
E1529—16e1: Standard Test Method for Determining Effects of Large Hydrocarbon Pool Fires on Structural Members and Assemblies
5704.2.9.2.3
E1537—22: Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture
805.1.1.2, 805.2.1.2, 805.3.1.2, 805.4.1.2
E1590—2022: Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
805.1.2.2, 805.2.2.2, 805.3.2.2.1, 805.4.2.2
E1966—15(2019): Standard Test Method for Fire-Resistant Joint Systems
202
E2072—14: Standard Specification for Photoluminescent (Phosphorescent) Safety Markings
1025.4
E2404—17: Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Textile, Paper or Polymeric (Including Vinyl) and Wood Wall or Ceiling Coverings, Facing and Veneers to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics
803.5.1, 803.5.2, 803.12
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 80-7
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
REFERENCED STANDARDS
E2573—19: Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Site-Fabricated Stretch Systems to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics
803.10
E2579—21: Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Wood Products to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics
803.13
E3082—20: Standard Test Methods for Determining the Effectiveness of Fire-Retardant Treatments for Natural Christmas Trees
806.1.4
CFC § 1709.5.2 High relevance — show source text
E283/E283M—19: Standard Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen
202
E330/E330M—14(2021): Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
1709.5.2, 1709.5.2.1, 1709.5.3.1
E331—2000(2016): Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
1402.2, 1403.2
E336—20: Standard Test Method for Measurement of Airborne Sound Attenuation between Rooms in Buildings
1206.2
E492—2009(2016)E1: Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine
1206.3
E580/E580M—22: Standard Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-in Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions
1617.12.13, 1617A.1.21
E605/E605M—19: Test Method for Thickness and Density of Sprayed Fire-Resistive Material (SFRM) Applied to Structural Members
1705.15.4.1, 1705.15.4.2, 1705.15.4.5, 1705.15.5
E648—2017A: Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
406.2.4, 424.2, 804.2, 804.3
35-20 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
REFERENCED STANDARDS
E662—17a: Standard Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke Generated by Solid Materials
804.4.1, 804.4.2
E681—09(2015): Test Methods for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemical Vapors and Gases
202
E736/E736M—19: Test Method for Cohesion/Adhesion of Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials Applied to Structural Members
704.12.3.2, 1705.15.6
E814—2013A(2017): Standard Test Method for Fire Tests of Penetration Firestop Systems
202, 714.4.1.2, 714.4.2, 714.5.1.2
E970—2017: Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Exposed Attic Floor Insulation Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
720.3.1
E1007—21: Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Tapping Machine Impact Sound Transmission through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies and Associated Support Structures
1206.3
E1300—2016: Practice for Determining Load Resistance of Glass in Buildings
2404.1, 2404.2, 2404.3.1, 2404.3.2, 2404.3.3, 2404.3.4, 2404.3.5
CFC § 1025.2.6.1 High relevance — show source text
170— 24 : Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols
1025.2.6.1
211— 24 : Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances
2112.5
221—24: Standard for High Challenge Fire Walls, Fire Walls and Fire Barrier Walls 706.2, Table 716.1(2)
252—22: Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
Table 716.1(1), 716.1.1, 716.1.2.2.1, 716.2.1.1, 716.2.1.2, 716.2.2.1, 716.2.2.2, 716.2.2.3.1, 716.2.5.1.1
253—23: Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
406.2.4, 424.2, 804.2, 804.3
257—22: Standard on Fire Test for Window and Glass Block Assemblies
Table 716.1(1), 716.1.1, 716.1.2.2.2, 716.3.1.1, 716.3.1.2, 716.3.2.1.3, 716.3.4
259—23: Standard Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials
2603.4.1.10, 2603.5.3
265—23: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of Textile or Expanded Vinyl Wall Coverings on Full Height Panels and Walls
803.5.1, 803.5.1.1
268—22: Standard Test Method for Determining Ignitability of Exterior Wall Assemblies Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
1405.1.1.1, 1405.1.1.1.1, 1405.1.1.1.2, 2603.5.7
275—22: Standard Method of Fire Tests for the Evaluation of Thermal Barriers
508.4.4.1, 509.4.1.1, 1406.10.2, 1408.10.2, 2603.4
276—23: Standard Method of Fire Test for Determining the Heat Release Rate of Roofing Assemblies with Combustible Above- Deck Roofing Components
1508.1, 2603.3, 2603.4.1.5
285—23: Standard Fire Test Method for Evaluation of Fire Propagation Characteristics of Exterior Wall Assemblies Containing Combustible Components
718.2.6, 1402.6, 1406.10.3, 1408.10.4, 1511.6.2, 2603.5.5
286— 24 : Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth
402.6.4.4, 424.2, 803.1.1, 803.1.1.1, 803.11, 803.12, 803.13, 1406.10.2, 1408.10.3, 2603.7, 2603.9, 2604.2.4, 2614.4, 3105.3
CFC § 1030.6.2 High relevance — show source text
101—24: Life Safety Code
1030.6.2
105— 25 : Standard for Smoke Door Assemblies and Other Opening Protectives 705.2, 706.1, Table 901.6.1, 909.18.3
110— 25 : Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems
913.5.2, 913.5.3, 1203.1.3, 1203.4, 1203.5, 3111F
111— 25 : Standard on Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems
1203.1.3, 1203.4, 1203.5, 3111F
80-20 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
REFERENCED STANDARDS
120— 23 : Standard for Fire Prevention and Control in Coal Mines
Table 2205.1
160—21: Standard for the Use of Flame Effects Before an Audience
308.3.2
170— 24 : Standard for Fire Safety and Emergency Symbols
1025.2.6.1
204— 24 : Standard for Smoke and Heat Venting Table 901.6.1, 910.5.1, 910.5.2
232—22: Standard for the Protection of Records
3210.1.1
241—22: Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration and Demolition Operations
3301.1, 3303.2
253—23: Standard Method of Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
804.3.1, 804.3.2, 804.4
260— 24 : Standard Methods of Tests and Classification System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Upholstered Furniture
805.1.1.1, 805.2.1.1, 805.3.1.1, 805.4.1.1
261—23: Standard Method of Test for Determining Resistance of Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Material Assemblies to Ignition by Smoldering Cigarettes
805.1.1.1, 805.2.1.1, 805.3.1.1, 805.4.1.1
265—23: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of Textile or Expanded Vinyl Wall Coverings on Full Height Panels and Walls
803.5.1, 803.5.1.1
286— 24 : Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth
803.1, 803.1.1, 803.1.1.1, 803.3, 803.12, 803.13, 804.1.1, 804.2.4
289—23: Standard Method of Fire Test for Individual Fuel Packages
807.3, 807.4.1, 807.5.1.1, 808.2
303—21: Fire Protection Standard for Marinas and Boatyards
3603.5, 3603.6, 3604.2
Frequently asked questions
What is the numeric critical radiant flux that defines Class I and Class II?
Class I is 0.45 W/cm² (or greater) and Class II is 0.22 W/cm² (or greater) as used in the CFC classifications (§ 804.3.1) .
Is there a separate smoke test for floors?
Yes — the CFC requires the specific optical density smoke rating per ASTM E662 to be not more than 450 for interior floor finish and coverings (§ 804.3.3.1) .
Do I need to test carpet and padding separately?
No — when carpeting is used where the code requires testing, carpet and padding must be tested as a unit in the floor covering radiant panel test (see § 804.3.3.3) .
Can a Class II product be used where Class I is required?
Yes — only if the building is protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system complying with § 903.3.1.1 or § 903.3.1.2, per the exception in § 804.3.3.2; the product must still meet the ASTM test and smoke requirements noted in the exception .
What labeling is required on the product?
Products must be identified by a hang‑tag or other suitable method showing manufacturer, style and the floor covering classification; test reports must be available to the fire code official on request (§ 804.3.2) .
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
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