CFC · California Fire Code
Furnishings — Upholstered Furniture, Mattresses and Other Furnishings
Chapter 8 of the CFC (notably §805 and §808) governs fire‑performance testing, labeling and limits for upholstery, mattresses and other furnishings, with occupancy‑specific rules and sprinkler exceptions.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
This part of the California Fire Code (Chapter 8) sets fire-performance and labeling requirements for newly introduced upholstered furniture and mattresses and establishes limits for other types of furnishings and decorative items. The primary regulatory text for upholstery and mattresses is located in Section §805 (occupancy‑specific requirements for Groups I‑2, I‑3, R‑2, etc.), while other furnishings and decorative objects are addressed in §808; Chapter 8 organizes the topic under "Interior finish, decorative materials and furnishings."
The CFC prescribes test criteria (ignition-by-cigarette/smolder tests and heat‑release tests) and numeric limits — for example, peak heat‑release limits of 80 kW for an upholstered item and 100 kW for a mattress, and a 25 MJ limit on total heat released in the first 10 minutes — along with required test standards (NFPA 261/260, ASTM E1537, ASTM E1590, and California TB 129/133) and agency labeling to demonstrate compliance. Many sections include an exception where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed (refer to §903.3.1.1).
Key compliance points to watch for are occupancy‑specific differences in §805, mandatory labeling that confirms testing and performance, and the separate treatment of non‑upholstered furnishings and decorative materials in §808 (for example, foam‑plastic sign and container heat‑release rules). For related sprinkler and area thresholds (retail, storage or manufacturing of upholstery/mattresses) consult the automatic‑sprinkler provisions referenced elsewhere in the code.
In this section
- How must furnishings be placed so they do not obstruct egress or conceal life‑safety features?
- What are rules for waste/linen containers and other non‑upholstered furnishings?
- What CFC requirements apply to upholstered furniture and mattresses?
- Where are California (Title 19) flame‑retardant and decorative materials regulations referenced?
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 805.4 High relevance — show source text
805.4 Group R-2 college and university dormitories. The requirements of Sections 805.4.1 through 805.4.2.3 shall apply to college and university dormitories classified in Group R-2, including decks, porches and balconies.
805.4.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.4.1.1 through 805.4.1.3.
805.4.1.1 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:
Mocked-up composites of the upholstered furniture shall have a char length not exceeding 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) when tested in accordance with NFPA 261.
The components of the upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements for Class I when tested in accordance with NFPA 260.
805.4.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1537 or California Technical Bulletin 133, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single upholstered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- The total heat released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.4.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.4.1.1 and 805.4.1.2.
805.4.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.4.2.1 through 805.4.2.3.
805.4.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accordance with DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
805.4.2.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mattresses shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1590 or California Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress shall not exceed 100 kW.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
- The total heat released by the single mattress during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.4.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.4.2.1 and 805.4.2.2.
CFC § 804.1. High relevance — show source text
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.
805.2.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1537 or California Technical Bulletin 133, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single upholstered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- The total heat released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.2.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.2.1.1 and 805.2.1.2.
805.2.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 through 805.2.2.3.
805.2.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accordance with DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
805.2.2.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mattresses shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1590 or California Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress shall not exceed 100 kW.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- The total heat released by the single mattress during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
CFC § 7-4 High relevance — show source text
703 Penetrations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
704 Joints and Voids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
705 Door and Window Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4 706 Duct and Air Transfer Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5 707 Concealed Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5 708 Spray Fire-Resistant Materials and Intumescent Fire-Resistant Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
709 Exterior Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE
MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3
801 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
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CONTENTS
802 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish in Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 804 Interior Wall and Ceiling Trim and Interior Floor Finish in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 805 Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 806 Natural Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 807 Decorative Materials and Artificial Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . 8-10 808 Furnishings Other than Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses or Decorative Materials in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY
SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
CFC § 8-3 High relevance — show source text
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CONTENTS
802 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish in Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 804 Interior Wall and Ceiling Trim and Interior Floor Finish in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 805 Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 806 Natural Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 807 Decorative Materials and Artificial Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . 8-10 808 Furnishings Other than Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses or Decorative Materials in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY
SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13 904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems . 9-24 905 Standpipe Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28 906 Portable Fire Extinguishers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31 907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39 908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 909 Smoke Control Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 910 Smoke and Heat Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-66
CFC § 903.3.1.1. High relevance — show source text
- The total heat released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.2.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.2.1.1 and 805.2.1.2.
805.2.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 through 805.2.2.3.
805.2.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accordance with DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
805.2.2.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mattresses shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1590 or California Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress shall not exceed 100 kW.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- The total heat released by the single mattress during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Mattresses in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
805.2.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 and 805.2.2.2.
805.3 Group I-3, detention and correction facilities. The requirements in Sections 805.3.1 through 805.3.2 shall apply to detention and correction facilities classified in Group I-3.
805.3.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.3.1.1 through 805.3.1.3.
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805.3.1.1 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:
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.
The components of the upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements for Class I when tested in accordance with NFPA 260.
805.3.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1537, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single upholstered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
- The total heat released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
CFC § 805.3.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
805.3.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.3.1.1 and 805.3.1.2.
805.3.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.3.2.1 through 805.3.2.3.
805.3.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accordance with DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
805.3.2.2 Fire performance tests. Newly introduced mattresses shall be tested in accordance with Section 805.3.2.2.1 or 805.3.2.2.2.
805.3.2.2.1 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mattresses shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1590 or California Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress shall not exceed 100 kW.
- The total heat released by the single mattress during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
805.3.2.2.2 Mass loss test. Newly introduced mattresses shall have a mass loss not exceeding 15 percent of the initial mass of the mattress where tested in accordance with the test in Annex A3 of ASTM F1085.
805.3.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.3.2.1 and 805.3.2.2.
805.4 Group R-2 college and university dormitories. The requirements of Sections 805.4.1 through 805.4.2.3 shall apply to college and university dormitories classified in Group R-2, including decks, porches and balconies.
805.4.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.4.1.1 through 805.4.1.3.
805.4.1.1 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:
Mocked-up composites of the upholstered furniture shall have a char length not exceeding 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) when tested in accordance with NFPA 261.
The components of the upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements for Class I when tested in accordance with NFPA 260.
805.4.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1537 or California Technical Bulletin 133, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single upholstered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- The total heat released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
Exception: Upholstered furniture in rooms or spaces protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
CFC § 805.2.2.3 Medium relevance — show source text
805.2.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.2.2.1 and 805.2.2.2.
805.3 Group I-3, detention and correction facilities. The requirements in Sections 805.3.1 through 805.3.2 shall apply to detention and correction facilities classified in Group I-3.
805.3.1 Upholstered furniture. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.3.1.1 through 805.3.1.3.
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805.3.1.1 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:
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.
The components of the upholstered furniture shall meet the requirements for Class I when tested in accordance with NFPA 260.
805.3.1.2 Heat release rate. Newly introduced upholstered furniture shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1537, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single upholstered furniture item shall not exceed 80 kW.
- The total heat released by the single upholstered furniture item during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
805.3.1.3 Identification. Upholstered furniture shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.3.1.1 and 805.3.1.2.
805.3.2 Mattresses. Newly introduced mattresses shall meet the requirements of Sections 805.3.2.1 through 805.3.2.3.
805.3.2.1 Ignition by cigarettes. Newly introduced mattresses shall be shown to resist ignition by cigarettes as determined by tests conducted in accordance with DOC 16 CFR Part 1632 and shall have a char length not exceeding 2 inches (51 mm).
805.3.2.2 Fire performance tests. Newly introduced mattresses shall be tested in accordance with Section 805.3.2.2.1 or 805.3.2.2.2.
805.3.2.2.1 Heat release rate. Newly introduced mattresses shall have limited rates of heat release when tested in accordance with ASTM E1590 or California Technical Bulletin 129, as follows:
- The peak rate of heat release for the single mattress shall not exceed 100 kW.
- The total heat released by the single mattress during the first 10 minutes of the test shall not exceed 25 MJ.
805.3.2.2.2 Mass loss test. Newly introduced mattresses shall have a mass loss not exceeding 15 percent of the initial mass of the mattress where tested in accordance with the test in Annex A3 of ASTM F1085.
805.3.2.3 Identification. Mattresses shall bear the label of an approved agency, confirming compliance with the requirements of Sections 805.3.2.1 and 805.3.2.2.
CFC § 903.2.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 903.2.7.1 High-piled storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in accordance with the California Fire Code in all buildings of Group M where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.
[F] 903.2.7.2 Group M upholstered furniture or mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group M fire area where the area used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).
[F] 903.2.7.3 Lithium-ion or lithium metal battery storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in a room or space within a Group M occupancy where required for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries by Section 320 of the California Fire Code or Chapter 32 of the California Fire Code .
[F] 903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.
Exceptions:
1. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies not housing bedridden clients, not housing nonambulatory clients above the first floor and not housing clients above the second floor. 2. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies housing only one bedridden client and complying with Section 435.8.3.3.
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3. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13113 occupancies housing ambulatory children only, none of whom are mentally ill children or children with intellectual disabilities, and the buildings or portions thereof in which such children are housed are not more than two stories in height, and buildings or portions thereof housing such children have an automatic fire alarm system activated by approved smoke detectors. 4. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.6 occupancies licensed for protective social care which house ambula- tory clients only, none of whom is a child (under the age of 18 years) or who is elderly (65 years of age or over). When not used for height increases or for area increases, an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be allowed in Group R-2.1 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system designed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall not be utilized in Group R-2.1 or R-4 occupancies.
[F] 903.2.8.1 Group R-3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 occupancies.
[F] 903.2.8.2 Group R-4. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be permitted in Group R-4 occupancies.
[F] 903.2.8.3 Care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in care facilities with five or fewer individuals in a single-family dwelling.
CFC § 804.3.3.3. Medium 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.
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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 § 903.2.4.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 903.2.4.1 Woodworking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) in area that generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials.
[SFM] A fire wall of less than four-hour fire-resistance rating without openings, or any fire wall with openings, shall not be used to establish separate fire areas.
[F] 903.2.4.2 Group F-1 distilled spirits. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits.
[F] 903.2.4.3 Group F-1 upholstered furniture or mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area that exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or
mattresses.
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[F] 903.2.5 Group H. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in high-hazard occupancies as required in Sections 903.2.5.1 through 903.2.5.3.
[F] 903.2.5.1 General. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group H occupancies.
[F] 903.2.5.2 Group H-5 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing Group H-5 occupancies. The design of the automatic sprinkler system shall be not less than that required by this code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.5.2.
Where the design area of the automatic sprinkler system consists of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers, the maximum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is 13.
[F] TABLE 903.2.5.2—GROUP H-5 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA Col2 LOCATION OCCUPANCY HAZARD CLASSIFICATION Fabrication areas Ordinary Hazard Group 2 Service corridors Ordinary Hazard Group 2 Storage rooms without dispensing Ordinary Hazard Group 2 Storage rooms with dispensing Extra Hazard Group 2 Corridors Ordinary Hazard Group 2 [F] 903.2.5.3 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg).
903.2.5.4 Group H occupancies located on the 11th story and above. The fire sprinkler system shall be designed and zoned to provide separate indication upon water-flow for each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier on the 11th story and above.
[F] 903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings with a Group I fire area.
CFC § 9-16 Medium relevance — show source text
9-16 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
- Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
- Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
- A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).
- A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal powered vehicles where the fire area exceeds 500 square feet (46.4 m [2] ).
903.2.9.2 Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 20,000 cubic feet (566 m [3] ) shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
903.2.9.3 Group S-1 distilled spirits or wine. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group S-1 fire area used for the bulk storage of distilled spirits or wine.
903.2.9.4 Group S-1 upholstered furniture and mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group S-1 fire area where the area used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ).
Exception: Self-service storage facilities not greater than one story above grade plane where all storage spaces can be accessed directly from the exterior.
903.2.10 Group S-2 parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as parking garages where any of the following conditions exist:
- Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
- Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.
Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies. 3. Where the fire area of the open parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code, exceeds 48,000 square feet (4460 m [2] ).
903.2.10.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).
903.2.10.2 Mechanical-access enclosed parking garages. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for the storage of motor vehicles in a mechanical-access enclosed parking garage. The portion of the building that contains the mechanical-access enclosed parking garage shall be protected with a specially engineered automatic sprinkler system.
903.2.11 Specific buildings areas and hazards. In all occupancies other than Group U, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.6.
**903.2.11.1 Stories without openings.
CFC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Title 19, Division 1]|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 13—96|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 38—99|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 193—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 199—95|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 228—97|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 260—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 262—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 268A—98|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 312—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 346—05|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 464—03|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 497B—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 521—99|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 539—00|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 632—00|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 753—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 790_Edition 9—2022_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 791—06|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 813—96|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 864—03|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 1974—17|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 9540_Edition 3—2023_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 9540A_Edition 4—2019_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 80-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
80-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
Part VI— Referenced Standards
80 REFERENCED STANDARDS
User notes:
About this chapter: This code contains numerous references to standards promulgated by other organizations that are used to provide requirements for materials and methods of construction. This chapter contains a comprehensive list of all standards that are referenced in this code. These standards, in essence, are part of this code to the extent of the reference to the standard.
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section
102.7.
AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, 444 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 249, Washington, DC 20001
Frequently asked questions
Which sections of the CFC set the test, performance and labeling requirements for upholstered furniture and mattresses?
See Section §805 for occupancy‑specific rules (e.g., §§805.2, 805.3, 805.4) — those sections specify cigarette‑ignition and heat‑release tests plus required agency labels.
What are the typical heat‑release and cigarette‑ignition limits I should expect?
Typical limits in §805 include a peak heat‑release of 80 kW for single upholstered items and 100 kW for mattresses, a 25 MJ total‑energy limit for the first 10 minutes, and specified char‑length or smolder‑resistance tests for cigarette ignition; test standards are NFPA 261/260, ASTM E1537/E1590 and California TB 129/133.
When do sprinklered spaces change the requirements?
Many performance limits in §805 include an explicit exception when the room or space is protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with §903.3.1.1; verify sprinkler scope and design in the applicable sprinkler sections.
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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