CFC · California Fire Code
How must furnishings be placed so they do not obstruct egress or conceal life‑safety features?
Keep furniture and decorations out of the way of exits and emergency equipment: the CFC (especially **§ 807.1(3)** and **§ 806.1(3)**) says you must not place items that block doors, the path to doors, or hide exit signs, alarm stations, hose cabinets, or extinguishers; special occupancy exceptions (like some hospital areas) allow limited equipment only if very specific criteria (for example, not reducing clear width below **5 ft**) are met.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Fire Code requires that furnishings and other objects not be placed so they obstruct exits, access to exits, egress from exits, or visibility of exits or life‑safety features — this is the controlling rule in § 807.1(3). The same general requirement appears in § 806.1(3) and is reinforced by provisions that require maintenance of fire‑retardant treatments and that specific life‑safety equipment (exit signs, alarm stations, hose cabinets, fire extinguishers) not be concealed. § 807.1 and § 806.1 are the primary controlling text.
The single most important rule: do not place furniture or decorations where they would block an exit, the path to an exit, or hide / obscure exit signs and life‑safety devices.
Key terms (first use)
- Furnishings (general term used in § 807.1 / § 806.1) — items of furniture or decorations that are not part of the fixed building construction.
- Means of egress / Exit — the required path or assembly by which occupants leave a building (the code references these terms in the placement rules).
Requirements in detail
1) Basic placement rule
- Furnishings or other objects shall not be placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom or visibility thereof — this is the plain‑language requirement in § 807.1(3) and mirrored in § 806.1(3). Use this as the baseline test for any furniture or decorative layout decision.
2) Visibility and concealment of life‑safety equipment
- Exits, exit signs, fire alarm sending stations, wet standpipe hose cabinets, and fire extinguisher locations must not be concealed, in whole or in part, by any decorative material; maintain clear visibility and access. This requirement is stated in the Title 19 reprint that accompanies Chapter 8 (see the regulatory text reprinted in the CFC).
3) Combustible decorations and supporting requirements (context)
- While § 807.1(3) focuses on obstruction and concealment, related rules limit combustible decorative materials in certain occupancies (for example, curtain/ hanging limits under § 807.2). Use § 807.1 together with those limits when placing draperies or suspended decorative materials near exits.
4) Natural decorative vegetation (special note)
- Natural cut trees and other decorative vegetation have placement limits — for example they shall not be located within an exit, corridor, or a lobby or vestibule under § 806.2. Treat live trees and large plants as a potential obstruction unless placed well away from required egress paths.
Decision‑relevant dimensions / values
| Situation / value | Requirement or threshold | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Placement that blocks exits, approach, egress, or visibility | Prohibited; furnishings shall not be placed to obstruct exits/access/egress/visibility | § 807.1(3) |
| Noncombustible decorative materials (amount) | No limit on permissible amount (i.e., not restricted by § 807.1(4)) | § 807.1(4) |
| Life‑safety features (exit signs, alarm stations, hose cabinets, extinguishers) | Must not be concealed in whole or part by decorative materials | § (Title 19 / CFC reprint) — see § 806.1.4 / accompanying Title 19 text |
| Natural cut trees and decorative vegetation | Not allowed in exits, corridors, lobbies, or vestibules | § 806.2 |
| Medical/bed‑movement equipment exception (healthcare corridors) | Equipment may occupy required width only if it does not reduce clear width to less than 5 feet (1525 mm) and other conditions are met (specific to bed‑movement areas) | (Health‑care equipment exception in CFC text) |
Notes: The CFC text in the chapter explicitly states placement and concealment prohibitions but does not prescribe a single universal numeric clearance for every setting; where numeric minimums exist they appear in other, occupancy‑specific sections (example: the 5‑ft clear width limitation in the healthcare bed‑movement exception). Always cross‑check with occupancy‑specific rules.
Exceptions & special cases
Occupancy‑specific exceptions (healthcare, patient‑care corridors, etc.) can allow limited equipment in egress paths only when specific criteria are met — e.g., equipment is wheeled/low hazard and the effective clear width is not reduced to less than 5 feet (1525 mm); equipment must be limited in type and number and stored to one side when not in use. This is an exception found elsewhere in the CFC and applies in narrowly defined bed‑movement areas — consult the healthcare‑specific provisions when relevant.
The CFC treats noncombustible decorative materials differently — § 807.1(4) expressly says the permissible amount of noncombustible decorative materials shall not be limited, but that does not override the basic placement rule: noncombustible items still may not obstruct or conceal life‑safety features.
Decorative vegetation and natural cut trees have additional rules (fire‑retardant treatment, distances from heat sources, and prohibition within exits) that must be observed. See § 806.1 (general), § 806.1.4 and § 806.2 for these special vegetation rules.
Sanitizer and hand‑rub dispensers: where these are regulated separately, the CFC requires they not obstruct means of egress and in some cases prescribe placement distances (for example, not within 3 feet (914 mm) of open flames or ignition sources). These are occupancy/usage‑specific requirements in Chapter 57 and Chapter 8; follow them when installing dispensers.
Common mistakes
- Placing sofas, bookshelves, or displays directly in front of exit doors or within the required path to an exit (violates § 807.1(3) / § 806.1(3)).
- Hanging draperies, banners or decorations over an exit or exit sign so that the sign or the door is partially or wholly concealed (the code explicitly prohibits concealing exits or exit signs).
- Using mirrors or reflective decorations near exits that could confuse egress direction (the code warns against mirrors that confuse the direction of egress).
- Assuming “noncombustible” means “can block anything” — even noncombustible furnishings must not obscure or obstruct life‑safety features.
- Forgetting occupancy exceptions — e.g., in healthcare corridors some wheeled equipment may temporarily occupy egress width if explicit conditions are met; failing to follow those specific conditions is a common compliance error.
Worked example — corridor / bed‑movement scenario
Scenario: A hospital corridor is used for patient movement. A wheeled medical cart (24 in / 610 mm wide) is positioned temporarily beside the wall in a corridor.
Controlling rule: furnishings or other objects shall not be placed to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom or visibility thereof (§ 807.1(3) / § 806.1(3)).
Applicable exception (healthcare bed‑movement areas): wheeled low‑hazard equipment is permitted in the required width provided it does not reduce the effective clear width to less than 5 feet (1525 mm) and other listed conditions are met. If the corridor’s required clear width is, for example, 6 feet (1830 mm), placing the 24‑inch (610 mm) cart reduces clear width to 4 feet (1220 mm) — this is less than 5 feet, so the exception would not allow the cart to remain in that spot. The cart must be moved to preserve a minimum clear width of 5 feet (1525 mm) or stored to one side when not in use consistent with the exception.
Practical outcome: either relocate the cart to avoid obstructing the corridor or ensure it is placed so the remaining clear egress width is at least 5 feet (1525 mm) and all other exception criteria are met. Also verify that the cart does not block sightlines to exits, exit signage, or life‑safety equipment (per § 807.1(3)).
Related provisions
- § 807.1(3–4) — Furnishing placement prohibition and noncombustible materials rule.
- § 806.1(3) — Parallel general requirement in Chapter 8 (decorative materials / furnishings).
- § 806.2 — Natural decorative vegetation placement (prohibits natural cut trees in exits/corridors/lobbies).
- Title 19 reprint (Chapter 8 notes / § 806.1.4) — Exits, exit lights, alarm stations, hose cabinets, and extinguishers shall not be concealed by decorative materials.
- Section(s) addressing healthcare equipment exceptions (example permitting wheeled equipment when not reducing width to less than 5 ft (1525 mm)) — see healthcare‑related exception text in the CFC.
- Means of egress and exit visibility rules in Chapter 10 (examples such as mirrors/draperies that confuse direction of egress are prohibited).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 3.1. High relevance — show source text
Exception: In areas required for bed movement, equipment shall be permitted in the required width where all of the following provisions are met:
- The equipment is low hazard and wheeled.
- The equipment does not reduce the effective clear width for the means of egress to less than 5 feet (1525 mm).
- The equipment is limited to: 3.1. Equipment and carts in use. 3.2. Medical emergency equipment.
3.3. Infection control carts.
3.4. Patient lift and transportation equipment. 4. Medical emergency equipment and patient lift and transportation equipment, when not in use, are required to be located on one side of the corridor.
- The equipment is limited in number to not more than one per patient sleeping room or patient care room within each smoke compartment.
[BE] 1032.4 Exit signs. Exit signs shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the building code that was in effect at the time of construction and the applicable provisions in Section 1104. Decorations, furnishings, equipment or adjacent signage that impairs the visibility of exit signs, creates confusion or prevents identification of the exit shall not be allowed.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
1032.5 Nonexit identification. Where a door is adjacent to, constructed similar to and can be confused with a means of egress door, that door shall be identified with an approved sign that identifies the room name or use of the room.
1032.6 Finishes, furnishings and decorations. Means of egress doors shall be maintained in such a manner as to be distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Furnishings, decorations or other objects shall not be placed so as to obstruct exits, access thereto, egress therefrom, or visibility thereof. Hangings and draperies shall not be placed over exit doors or otherwise be located to conceal or obstruct an exit. Mirrors shall not be placed on exit doors. Mirrors shall not be placed in or adjacent to any exit in such a manner as to confuse the direction of egress.
1032.7 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Required emergency escape and rescue openings shall be maintained in accordance with the code in effect at the time of construction, and both of the following:
Required emergency escape and rescue openings shall be operational from the inside of the room without the use of keys or tools.
Bars, grilles, grates or similar devices are permitted to be placed over emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the minimum net clear opening size complies with the code that was in effect at the time of construction and the unit is equipped with smoke alarms installed in accordance with Section 907.2.11. Such devices shall be releasable or removable from the inside without the use of a key, tool or force greater than that which is required for normal operation of the emergency escape and rescue opening.
1032.8 Inspection, testing and maintenance. The inspection, testing and maintenance for two-way communication systems shall be in accordance with this code and NFPA 72, and shall be conducted not less than annually or more frequently where required by the fire code official.
1032.8.1 Records. Records of inspections, testing and maintenance shall be maintained on site in a location approved by the fire code official.
CFC § 806.2 High relevance — show source text
806.2 Obstruction of means of egress. The required width of any portion of a means of egress shall not be obstructed by decorative vegetation. Natural cut trees shall not be located within an exit, corridor, or a lobby or vestibule.
806.3 Open flame. Candles and open flames shall not be used on or near decorative vegetation. Natural cut trees shall be kept a distance from heat vents and any open flame or heat-producing devices not less than the height of the tree.
806.4 Electrical fixtures and wiring. The use of unlisted electrical wiring and lighting on natural vegetation, including natural cut trees, shall be prohibited.
SECTION 807—DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND ARTIFICIAL DECORATIVE VEGETATION IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
807.1 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 noncombustible decorative materials shall not be limited.
807.2 Combustible decorative materials. In Groups A, B, E, I, M and R-1 and in dormitories in Group R-2, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and other similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall comply with Section 807.3 and shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which such materials are attached.
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads and crash pads applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or other purposes shall be considered to be interior finish, shall comply with Section 803 and shall not be considered decorative materials or furnishings.
Exceptions:
In auditoriums in Group A, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative material suspended from walls or ceilings shall not exceed 75 percent of the aggregate wall area where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and where the material is installed in accordance with Section 803.15 of the California Building Code.
In Group R-2 dormitories, within sleeping units and dwelling units, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall not exceed 50 percent of the aggregate wall areas where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.
In Group B and M occupancies, the amount of combustible fabric partitions suspended from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall comply with Section 807.3 and shall not be limited.
The 10-percent limit shall not apply to curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials used as window coverings.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.08]. Decorative Materials.
CFC § 806.1.4 High relevance — show source text
806.1.4 Fire-retardant treatments for natural cut trees. Where fire-retardant treatments are applied to natural cut trees, the fire-retardant treatment shall be tested by an approved agency and shall be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition by means of a flame-retardant solution or process approved by the State Fire Marshal, as set forth in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.08]. Decorative Materials.
In every Group A, E, I, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancy, all drapes, hangings, curtains, drops and all other decorative material, including Christmas trees, that would tend to increase the fire and panic hazard shall be made from a nonflammable material, or shall be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition by means of a flame-retardant solution or process approved by the State Fire Marshal, as set forth in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8. Exits, exit lights, fire alarm sending stations, wet standpipe hose cabinets and fire extinguisher locations shall not be concealed, in whole or in part, by any decorative material.
Exceptions: (a) Cubical curtains and individual patient room window curtains and drapes in Group I, R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancies. (b) Window curtains and drapes within dwelling units of Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies. (c) Christmas trees within dwelling units of Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies.
806.2 Obstruction of means of egress. The required width of any portion of a means of egress shall not be obstructed by decorative vegetation. Natural cut trees shall not be located within an exit, corridor, or a lobby or vestibule.
806.3 Open flame. Candles and open flames shall not be used on or near decorative vegetation. Natural cut trees shall be kept a distance from heat vents and any open flame or heat-producing devices not less than the height of the tree.
806.4 Electrical fixtures and wiring. The use of unlisted electrical wiring and lighting on natural vegetation, including natural cut trees, shall be prohibited.
SECTION 807—DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND ARTIFICIAL DECORATIVE VEGETATION IN NEW AND EXISTING BUILDINGS
807.1 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 noncombustible decorative materials shall not be limited.
807.2 Combustible decorative materials. In Groups A, B, E, I, M and R-1 and in dormitories in Group R-2, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and other similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall comply with Section 807.3 and shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which such materials are attached.
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CFC § 410.2 High relevance — show source text
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.
[F] 806.2 Combustible decorative materials. In Groups A, B, E, I, M and R-1 and in dormitories in Group R-2, curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall comply with Section 806.4 and shall not exceed 10 percent of the specific wall or ceiling area to which such materials are attached.
Fixed or movable walls and partitions, paneling, wall pads and crash pads applied structurally or for decoration, acoustical correction, surface insulation or other purposes shall be considered to be interior finish, shall comply with Section 803 and shall not be considered to be decorative materials or furnishings.
Exceptions:
In auditoriums in Group A, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings shall not exceed 75 percent of the aggregate wall area where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and where the material is installed in accordance with Section 803.15 of this code.
In Group R-2 dormitories, within sleeping units and dwelling units, the permissible amount of curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar decorative materials suspended from walls or ceiling shall not exceed 50 percent of the aggregate wall areas where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.
In Group B and M occupancies, the amount of combustible fabric partitions suspended from the ceiling and not supported by the floor shall comply with Section 806.4 and shall not be limited.
The 10-percent limit shall not apply to curtains, draperies, fabric hangings and similar combustible decorative materials used as window coverings.
California Fire Code High relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.CFC § 8-6 High relevance — show source text
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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 § 6.1. High relevance — show source text
- Dispensers shall not obstruct required means of egress or be placed within 3 feet (914 mm) of an open flame, heating device or other ignition source.
- Dispensers shall not release their contents except when the dispenser is manually activated. Facilities shall be permitted to install and use automatically activated “touch free” alcohol-based hand-rub dispensing devices with the following requirements: 6.1. The facility or persons responsible for the dispensers shall test the dispensers each time a new refill is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s care and use instructions.
6.2. Dispensers shall be designed and must operate in a manner that ensures accidental or malicious activations of the dispensing device are minimized. At a minimum, all devices subject to or used in accordance with this section shall have the following safety features: 6.2.1. Any activations of the dispenser shall only occur when an object is placed within 4 inches (98 mm) of the sensing device. 6.2.2. The dispenser shall not dispense more than the amount required for hand hygiene consistent with label instructions as regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). 6.2.3. An object placed within the activation zone and left in place will cause only one activation. 7. Storage and use of alcohol-based hand rubs shall be in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 5704 and 5705.
- Dispensers located in occupancies with carpeted floors shall only be allowed in smoke compartments or fire areas equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
5705.5.1 Corridor installations. In addition to the provisions of Section 5705.5, where dispensers containing alcohol-based hand rubs are located in corridors or rooms and areas open to the corridor, they shall be in accordance with all of the following:
Level 2 and 3 aerosol containers shall not be allowed in corridors.
The maximum capacity of each Class I or II liquid dispenser shall be 41 ounces (1.21 L) and the maximum capacity of each Level 1 aerosol dispenser shall be 18 ounces (0.51 kg).
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FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
- The maximum quantity allowed in a corridor within a control area shall be 10 gallons (37.85 L) of Class I or II liquids or 1135 ounces (32.2 kg) of Level 1 aerosols, or a combination of Class I or II liquids and Level 1 aerosols not to exceed, in total, the equivalent of 10 gallons (37.85 L) or 1,135 ounces (32.2 kg) such that the sum of the ratios of the liquid and aerosol quantities divided by the allowable quantity of liquids and aerosols, respectively, shall not exceed one.
- Projections into a corridor shall be in accordance with Section 1003.3.3.
SECTION 5706—SPECIAL OPERATIONS
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 § 5705.4.6 Medium relevance — show source text
5705.4.6 Location. Solvent distillation units shall be used in locations in accordance with the listing. Solvent distillation units shall not be used in basements.
5705.4.7 Storage of liquids. Distilled liquids and liquids awaiting distillation shall be stored in accordance with Section 5704.
5705.4.8 Storage of residues. Hazardous residue from the distillation process shall be stored in accordance with Section 5704 and Chapter 50.
5705.4.9 Portable fire extinguishers. Approved portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with Section 906. Not less than one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 40-B shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) or more than 30 feet (9144 mm) from any solvent distillation unit.
5705.5 Alcohol-based hand rubs classified as Class I or II liquids. The use of dispensers containing alcohol-based hand rubs classified as Class I or II liquids shall be in accordance with all of the following:
- The maximum capacity of each dispenser shall be 68 ounces (2 L).
- The minimum separation between dispensers shall be 48 inches (1219 mm).
- Dispensers shall not be located above, below or closer than 1 inch (25 mm) to an electrical receptacle, switch, appliance, device or other ignition source. The wall space between the dispenser and the floor or intervening counter top shall be free of electrical receptacles, switches, appliances, devices or other ignition sources.
- Dispensers shall be located so that the bottom of the dispenser is not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) and not more than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor.
- Dispensers shall not obstruct required means of egress or be placed within 3 feet (914 mm) of an open flame, heating device or other ignition source.
- Dispensers shall not release their contents except when the dispenser is manually activated. Facilities shall be permitted to install and use automatically activated “touch free” alcohol-based hand-rub dispensing devices with the following requirements: 6.1. The facility or persons responsible for the dispensers shall test the dispensers each time a new refill is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s care and use instructions.
6.2. Dispensers shall be designed and must operate in a manner that ensures accidental or malicious activations of the dispensing device are minimized. At a minimum, all devices subject to or used in accordance with this section shall have the following safety features: 6.2.1. Any activations of the dispenser shall only occur when an object is placed within 4 inches (98 mm) of the sensing device. 6.2.2. The dispenser shall not dispense more than the amount required for hand hygiene consistent with label instructions as regulated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). 6.2.3. An object placed within the activation zone and left in place will cause only one activation. 7. Storage and use of alcohol-based hand rubs shall be in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 5704 and 5705.
- Dispensers located in occupancies with carpeted floors shall only be allowed in smoke compartments or fire areas equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.
CFC § 2.0 Medium relevance — show source text
- 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX O-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX O-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
O VALET TRASH AND RECYCLING COLLECTION
IN GROUP R-2 OCCUPANCIES
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance or legislation of the jurisdiction.
User notes:
About this appendix: Appendix O provides for valet trash and recycling collection services in Group R-2 occupancies. These collection services are formally defined in Section 202 as “Valet Trash Collection,” which includes recycling. Occupants receiving this service place trash and recyclables in the corridor outside their residence for pickup by a collection service on a regularly scheduled basis in accordance with restrictions, as prescribed by this appendix.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this appendix will be considered by the IFC Code Development Committee during the 2024 (Group
A) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION O101—SCOPE
O101.1 Scope. Valet trash collection in Group R-2 occupancies shall comply with this appendix.
SECTION O102—CONTAINERS
O102.1 General. Containers used for valet trash collection shall comply with Sections O102.2 through O102.5.
O102.2 Integrity. Valet trash or recycling materials shall be stored in containers that are of liquid-tight construction and equipped with lids. Lids shall be in the fully closed position.
O102.3 Height. Containers shall not exceed 30 inches (762 mm) in height.
O102.4 Capacity and limit. Individual containers shall not exceed 2.0 cubic feet (15 gallons; 56.8 L) in capacity. Only one trash or recycling container per dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall be permitted to be placed outside the dwelling unit or sleeping unit at one time. Trash and recycling containers shall not be placed outside a dwelling unit or sleeping unit at the same time.
O102.5 Construction materials. Containers and lids used for valet trash collections shall be constructed entirely of noncombustible materials or of materials that meet a peak rate of heat release not exceeding 300 kW/m [2] when tested in accordance with ASTM E1354 at an incident heat flux of 50 kW/m [2] in the horizontal orientation.
SECTION O103—CONTAINER LOCATION
O103.1 General. Placement of containers used for valet trash collection outside a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall comply with Sections O103.2 and O103.3.
O103.2 Minimum means of egress width. Containers used for valet trash collection shall not obstruct the minimum required egress width.
O103.3 Stairways. Containers used for valet trash collection shall not be placed on stair risers, within minimum required stairway landing dimensions or anywhere in an interior exit stairway.
SECTION O104—ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
CFC § 6.4 Medium relevance — show source text
6.4_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.6.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.9|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.9.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.9.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.9.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.9.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.10|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.2.1 – 907.2.11.2.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.8|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.11.9|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.12|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.13|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.13.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.13.1.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.24 with subsections|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.25 with subsections|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.26 with subsections|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.2.27|||X||||||||||||||||||||||
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 9 – FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS—continued
CFC § 2.95 Medium relevance — show source text
00|2.95|2.20|1.45|3.00|2.35|1.25|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#8 screw into 33 mil steel or
thicker|8|3.00|2.55|1.60|0.60|3.00|1.80|DR|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#8 screw into 33 mil steel or
thicker|12|3.00|1.80|DR|DR|3.00|0.65|DR|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 33 mil steel|6|4.00|3.50|2.70|1.95|4.00|2.90|1.70|0.55| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 33 mil steel|8|4.00|3.10|2.05|1.00|4.00|2.25|0.70|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 33 mil steel|12|4.00|2.25|0.70|DR|3.70|1.05|DR|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 43 mil steel or
thicker|6|4.00|4.00|4.00|3.60|4.00|4.00|3.45|2.70| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 43 mil steel or
thicker|8|4.00|4.00|3.70|3.00|4.00|3.85|2.80|1.80| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 43 mil steel or
thicker|12|4.00|3.85|2.80|1.80|4.00|3.05|1.50|DR| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 0.00689 MPa.
DR = design required, o.c. = on center.
a. Cold-formed steel framing shall be minimum 33 ksi steel for 33 mil and 43 mil steel and 50 ksi steel for 54 mil steel or thicker.
b. Screws shall comply with the requirements of AISI S240.
c. Foam sheathing shall have a minimum compressive strength of 15 pounds per square inch in accordance with ASTM C578 or ASTM C1289.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 0.00689 MPa.
DR = design required, o.c. = on center.
a. Cold-formed steel framing shall be minimum 33 ksi steel for 33 mil and 43 mil steel and 50 ksi steel for 54 mil steel or thicker.
b.
Frequently asked questions
What is the single shortest test to know if a piece of furniture is compliant?
If it blocks an exit, the path to an exit, or hides an exit sign or life‑safety device — move it. The CFC’s baseline prohibition is in § 807.1(3) and mirrored in § 806.1(3).
Are noncombustible decorations allowed to cover a lot of wall area?
Yes — § 807.1(4) states noncombustible decorative materials are not limited in amount, but they still must not obstruct exits or conceal life‑safety devices.
Can I put a potted tree in a building lobby?
No — natural cut trees and certain decorative vegetation are not allowed in exits, corridors, lobbies, or vestibules under § 806.2. Place large live or cut trees away from required egress paths.
Do the rules differ for hospitals or patient‑care areas?
Yes — some healthcare exceptions permit limited placement of wheeled equipment in bed‑movement areas provided the equipment is low hazard, wheeled, limited in number/type, and does not reduce clear width below 5 feet (1525 mm); check the healthcare‑specific text before relying on exceptions.
If an exit sign is partially blocked by a decorative banner, is that allowed?
No — exit signs and exits must remain visible and not be concealed by furnishings or decorations (see the Title 19 reprint and Chapter 8 guidance).
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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