CFC · California Fire Code
When are fire‑retardant coatings permitted and how must they be maintained?
If an existing wall or ceiling finish in your building fails the allowed flame‑spread/smoke criteria, you may be allowed to coat it with an approved fire‑retardant product instead of replacing the material — but the product must be tested on the same substrate, meet NFPA 703 requirements, and you must maintain or reapply the treatment exactly per the manufacturer's instructions to remain code‑compliant under § 803.4.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2‑4 sentences
The California Fire Code permits using fire‑retardant coatings to bring surfaces in existing buildings into compliance when their flame spread index exceeds the allowed value. The use must comply with NFPA 703, be assessed by testing over the same substrate, and the required fire‑retardant properties must be maintained or renewed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions — see § 803.4.
The single most important point: if you treat an existing surface with a fire‑retardant coating, the coating must be tested on the same substrate, meet the required standard, and be maintained exactly as the manufacturer directs.
Requirements in detail
When the coating is allowed
- Fire‑retardant coatings are permitted only to existing surfaces whose current performance (flame spread or smoke development) exceeds the limits required by Chapter 8 for that location and occupancy. § 803.4 authorizes this route to compliance.
What tests and standards are required
- The application must comply with NFPA 703 (the referenced standard for fire‑retardant coatings and treated wood). § 803.4 specifically requires NFPA 703 compliance.
- The fire‑retardant paint, coating or solution must have been assessed by testing over the same substrate to be used in the application (i.e., you must test the coating on the actual material you will coat). § 803.4.
How coatings must be maintained
- The required fire‑retardant properties shall be maintained or renewed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; failure to maintain is a code deficiency. § 803.4.
- The code elsewhere reiterates that fire‑retardant treatments in existing buildings must be maintained to retain effectiveness under actual service conditions (general decorative/finish provisions). § 807.1.
- Maintenance of fire protection features and equipment is a general obligation; systems and materials required by the regulations must be maintained in operable/effective condition. See maintenance provisions in the CFC (e.g., § 901.6).
Decision table — key decision dimensions
| Decision factor | What matters for approval or compliance | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Where allowed | Existing building surfaces with flame spread/smoke values exceeding allowable limits may be treated with coatings instead of replacement | § 803.4 |
| Standard to use | Application and treated material must comply with NFPA 703 | § 803.4; referenced NFPA 703 in standards list |
| Substrate testing | Coating must be tested over the same substrate to be used in the field | § 803.4 |
| Maintenance frequency & method | Maintain or renew per the manufacturer’s instructions; code does not specify a fixed interval — follow manufacturer and any State Fire Marshal requirements | § 803.4; maintenance principles in § 807.1 and § 901.6 |
| State approvals & labeling | Flame‑retardant chemicals/materials and applications are subject to State Fire Marshal rules (labeling/registration and retreatment orders) | CCR / Title 19 provisions referenced in the chapter (labeling and retreatment rules) |
Exceptions & special cases
- Alterations: For certain Level 2 alterations in existing buildings the code allows treating in‑place materials to meet finish requirements; testing on the same or a similar material is permitted where the same material is not available — see the Existing Building Code exceptions to § 802.4.
- State Fire Marshal controls: The State Fire Marshal regulates registration, labeling, approval and retreatment for flame‑retardant chemicals and treated fabrics; if the SFM issues a retreatment order, retreatment/replacement must be completed within the specified time (Title 19 provisions referenced in the CFC).
- Application over different substrate: If you change the substrate (for example, remove paneling and install a different facing), the prior test over the old substrate does not substitute — the coating must be assessed over the actual substrate to be used per § 803.4.
Common mistakes
- Assuming any fire‑retardant paint is “code‑compliant” without checking the product was tested on the same substrate and meets NFPA 703 as applied — § 803.4 requires both.
- Treating once and never maintaining: the code requires ongoing maintenance/renewal per the manufacturer’s instructions; ignoring this voids the compliance claim. § 803.4 and § 807.1.
- Using unregistered or unapproved flame‑retardant chemicals (Title 19/State Fire Marshal authority) or failing to provide required labeling/certificates. CCR labeling/retreatment rules are referenced by the CFC.
- Testing on a different substrate or using a laboratory test of the coating on paper/cardboard instead of the actual wall material — the code requires testing on the same substrate. § 803.4.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: An existing office corridor has wood paneling whose measured flame spread index is 180 (above the allowed limit for that corridor finish). The owner prefers to apply a fire‑retardant coating rather than replace all paneling.
Steps to compliance under § 803.4:
- Choose an approved fire‑retardant paint/solution intended for wood and compliant with NFPA 703.
- Perform an assessment/test of the selected coating applied to sample panels of the same wood substrate (same species, surface preparation and thickness) — the coating must be assessed by testing over the same substrate. § 803.4.
- Obtain documentation showing the treated sample achieves the required classification for that corridor location (per Chapter 8 acceptance criteria or the referenced test method). § 803.4 and related Chapter 8 testing requirements.
- Apply the coating to the corridor per the product’s installation instructions and manufacturer’s coverage rates. § 803.4 requires maintenance/renewal per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Set and document a maintenance/reinspection schedule tied to the manufacturer’s guidance (for example: visual monthly checks and recoat when tests or the manufacturer indicate loss of effectiveness). The CFC requires maintenance but does not provide fixed intervals; follow the manufacturer and any SFM direction. § 803.4; § 807.1; § 901.6.
Note: If the owner cannot produce validated test results on the same substrate, the enforcing agency may require replacement or a different remediation strategy — testing is the linchpin to using coatings as an alternative. § 803.4.
Related provisions
- Interior wall and ceiling finish classification & test methods — § 803.1, § 803.1.1 (NFPA 286 acceptance/criteria).
- General requirement that fire‑retardant coatings in existing buildings be maintained — § 807.1.
- Existing Building Code: treatment exception and testing-on-similar-material allowance for alterations — § 802.4 (Existing Building Code/alterations).
- Maintenance of required fire protection systems and materials — § 901.6 (inspection, testing and maintenance obligation).
- Definitions / approved / flame‑retardant chemical references — § 802.1 and the Title 19 references cited in the chapter (State Fire Marshal authority).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 8-4 High relevance — show source text
8-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
803.4 Fire-retardant coatings. The required flame spread or smoke-developed index of surfaces in existing buildings shall be allowed to be achieved by application of approved fire-retardant coatings, paints or solutions to surfaces having a flame spread index exceeding that allowed. Such applications shall comply with NFPA 703 and the required fire-retardant properties shall be maintained or renewed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The fire-retardant paint, coating or solution shall have been assessed by testing over the same substrate to be used in the application.
803.5 Textile wall coverings. Where used as interior wall finish materials, textile wall coverings, including materials having a woven, nonwoven, napped, tufted, looped or similar surface, shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.1, 803.5.1 or 803.5.2.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.21(a) and (b)] Interior Finish of Decorative Material.
(a) Unframed Rigid Combustible Decorative Material. Rigid combustible decorative material and assemblies of materials not more than [1] / 4 inch in thickness used for folding doors, room dividers, decorative screens and similar applications, which do not create concealed spaces and which are installed with exposed edges, shall be flame resistant in accordance with the following:
(1) Test specimen shall be 12 inches wide and 24 inches long. Four specimens shall be tested, two in each direction of the material. (2) The specimen shall be suspended vertically with its lower edge 2 inches above the top of a [3] / 8 inch diameter Bunsen Burner. The test shall be performed in a draft-free area.
(3) The flames from the burner shall be 4 inches long and shall be adjusted with sufficient air supply to eliminate any yellow flame tips but without any distinct inner blue cone.
(4) The specimen shall be exposed to the flame at each corner and at not less than one other point along the lower edge. Each exposure shall be of sufficient duration to determine if the material will ignite and continue to burn, but shall be not less than 20 seconds.
(5) The criteria for acceptance shall be as follows:
(A) There shall be not more than intermittent flaming appreciably beyond the area exposed to the test flame.
(B) No flame shall reach the top of the specimen.
(C) On removing the test flame there shall be not more than one second of after flaming except there may be nonprogressive flaming of short duration in areas of accumulated char which were directly exposed to the test flame.
(b) Framed Rigid Combustible Decorative Material. Rigid combustible decorative material and assemblies of materials not more than 1 / 4 inch in thickness used for folding doors, room dividers, decorative screens and similar applications, and which are installed with all edges protected, shall conform to the following: (1) All exposed edges shall be protected with frames of metal or other noncombustible material, or solid wood of minimum [1] / 4 inch dimension.
CFC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
b**|Corridors and enclosure
for exit access stairways
and ramps|Rooms and
enclosed
spacesc|Interior exit stair-
ways and ramps and
exit passagewaysa, b|Corridors and
enclosure for exit
access stairways and
ramps|Rooms and
enclosed
spacesc| |A-1 and A-2|B|B|C|A|Ad|Be| |A-3f, A-4, A-5|B|B|C|A|Ad|C| |B, E, M, R-1, R-4|B|Cm|C|A|Bm|C| |F|C|C|C|B|C|C| |H_, L_|B|B|Cg|A|A|B| |I-1|B|C|C|A|B|B| |I-3|A|Aj|C|A|A|B| |I-4|B|B|Bh, i|A|A|B| |R-2|C|C|C|B|B|C| |R-2.1|B|C|C|A|B|B| |R-3_, R-3.1_|C|C|C|C|C|C| |S|C|C|C|B|B|C| |U|No Restrictions|No Restrictions|No Restrictions|No Restrictions|No Restrictions|No Restrictions|8-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
803.4 Fire-retardant coatings. The required flame spread or smoke-developed index of surfaces in existing buildings shall be allowed to be achieved by application of approved fire-retardant coatings, paints or solutions to surfaces having a flame spread index exceeding that allowed. Such applications shall comply with NFPA 703 and the required fire-retardant properties shall be maintained or renewed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The fire-retardant paint, coating or solution shall have been assessed by testing over the same substrate to be used in the application.
803.5 Textile wall coverings. Where used as interior wall finish materials, textile wall coverings, including materials having a woven, nonwoven, napped, tufted, looped or similar surface, shall be tested in the manner intended for use, using the product mounting system, including adhesive, and shall comply with the requirements of Section 803.1.1, 803.5.1 or 803.5.2.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.21(a) and (b)] Interior Finish of Decorative Material.
(a) Unframed Rigid Combustible Decorative Material. Rigid combustible decorative material and assemblies of materials not more than [1] / 4 inch in thickness used for folding doors, room dividers, decorative screens and similar applications, which do not create concealed spaces and which are installed with exposed edges, shall be flame resistant in accordance with the following:
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.
8-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
CFC § 801.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 801—GENERAL
801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern interior finish, interior trim, furniture, furnishings, decorative materials and decorative vegetation in buildings. Existing buildings shall comply with Sections 803 through 808. New buildings shall comply with Sections 804 through 808, and Section 803 of the California Building Code.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1172] Purpose.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 have been prepared and adopted for the purpose of establishing minimum standards for the prevention of fire and for the protection of life and property against fire and panic through the use of flame-retardant chemicals, fabrics and materials.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1173] Scope.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 shall govern the manufacture, sale and application of flame-retardant chemicals used in connection with fabrics or materials required to be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition as provided in Sections 13115 or 13119 of the Health and Safety Code. These rules and regulations shall also apply to fabrics or materials inherently nonflammable and, they shall also establish minimum fire-resistive standards for such fabrics or materials.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 shall also establish minimum standards and specific procedures for the approval of flame-retardant chemicals, flame retardant materials and flame retardant applicator concerns.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1174] Basis.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 are based upon the presumption of fact that fabrics and similar materials commonly known to be flammable increase, or may cause the increase of, the hazard or menace of fire; that proper and adequate flame-retardant treatment through the use of certain chemicals is possible whereby the danger to life and property from fire and panic can be materially reduced; and, that there do exist certain fabrics and materials which by nature are nonflammable.
SECTION 802—DEFINITIONS
802.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
FLAME SPREAD.
FLAME SPREAD INDEX.
INTERIOR FLOOR-WALL BASE.
SITE-FABRICATED STRETCH SYSTEM.
SMOKE-DEVELOPED INDEX.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1191] Approved.
“Approved” means approved by the State Fire Marshal.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1196] Flame-retardant Chemical.
“Flame-Retardant Chemical,” as used herein, means any chemical, chemical compound or chemical mixture which when properly applied to a fabric or material will render such fabric or material incapable of supporting combustion to the extent that it will success- fully withstand the tests and meet the specifications promulgated by the State Fire Marshal.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1201] Nonflammable Material.
“Nonflammable Material,” as used herein, means a fabric or material which is inherently flame-resistant to the extent that it will meet the requirements of the fire resistance test herein prescribed, but shall not include materials which must be chemically treated or processed after manufacture to make them flame-resistant.
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.
CFC § 8-10 Medium relevance — show source text
8-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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.
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.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1273.1] Fabrics for Interior Use.
Fabrics as described in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, 1272(c) intended for interior use shall be tested in their original condition only and shall meet the requirements for fire resistance outlined in California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 1273.3.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1273.2] Fabrics for Exterior Use.
CFC § 603.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
** Combustible materials shall be permitted in buildings of Type I or II construction in the following applications and in accordance with Sections 603.1.1 through 603.1.3:
Fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2 shall be permitted in: 1.1. Nonbearing partitions where the required fire-resistance rating is 2 hours or less except in shaft enclosures within Group I-2 occupancies and ambulatory care facilities. 1.2. Nonbearing exterior walls where fire-resistance-rated construction is not required. 1.3. Roof construction, including girders, trusses, framing and decking. Exceptions:
In buildings of Type IA construction exceeding two stories above grade plane, fire-retardant-treated wood is not permitted in roof construction where the vertical distance from the upper floor to the roof is less than 20 feet (6096 mm).
Group I-2, roof construction containing fire-retardant-treated wood shall be covered by not less than a Class A roof covering or roof assembly, and the roof assembly shall have a fire-resistance rating where required by the construction type. 1.4. Balconies, porches, decks and exterior stairways not used as required exits on buildings three stories or less above grade plane.
Thermal and acoustical insulation, other than foam plastics, having a flame spread index of not more than 25. Exceptions:
Insulation placed between two layers of noncombustible materials without an intervening airspace shall be allowed to have a flame spread index of not more than 100.
Insulation installed between a finished floor and solid decking without intervening airspace shall be allowed to have a flame spread index of not more than 200.
Foam plastics in accordance with Chapter 26.
Roof coverings that have an A, B or C classification.
Interior floor finish and floor covering materials installed in accordance with Section 804.
Millwork such as doors, door frames, window sashes and frames.
Interior wall and ceiling finishes installed in accordance with Section 803.
Trim installed in accordance with Section 806.6.
Where not installed greater than 15 feet (4572 mm) above grade, show windows, nailing or furring strips and wooden bulkheads below show windows, including their frames, aprons and show cases.
Finish flooring installed in accordance with Section 805.
Partitions dividing portions of stores, offices or similar places occupied by one tenant only and that do not establish a corridor serving an occupant load of 30 or more shall be permitted to be constructed of fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2, 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction or of wood panels or similar light construction up to 6 feet (1829 mm) in height.
Stages and platforms constructed in accordance with Sections 410.2 and 410.3, respectively.
Combustible exterior wall coverings, balconies and similar projections and bay or oriel windows in accordance with Chapter 14 and Section 705.2.3.1.
Blocking such as for handrails, millwork, cabinets and window and door frames.
Light-transmitting plastics as permitted by Chapter 26.
Mastics and caulking materials applied to provide flexible seals between components of exterior wall construction.
Exterior plastic veneer installed in accordance with Section 2605.2.
Nailing or furring strips as permitted by Section 803.15.
CFC § 806.2 Medium 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.
8-10 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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 § 5.1.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.1.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.1.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.3_ –807.5.3.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.7|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |807.5.7.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |808.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.19 (b)(c)]_||||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 8-1
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8 INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 8 provides requirements for interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards in buildings. The provisions tend to focus on occupancies with specific risk characteristics, such as vulnerability of occupants, density of occupants, lack of familiarity with the building and societal expectations of importance. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the California Building Code, which regulates the interior finishes and decorative materials of new buildings.
SECTION 801—GENERAL
801.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern interior finish, interior trim, furniture, furnishings, decorative materials and decorative vegetation in buildings. Existing buildings shall comply with Sections 803 through 808. New buildings shall comply with Sections 804 through 808, and Section 803 of the California Building Code.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1172] Purpose.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 have been prepared and adopted for the purpose of establishing minimum standards for the prevention of fire and for the protection of life and property against fire and panic through the use of flame-retardant chemicals, fabrics and materials.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1173] Scope.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8 shall govern the manufacture, sale and application of flame-retardant chemicals used in connection with fabrics or materials required to be treated and maintained in a flame-retardant condition as provided in Sections 13115 or 13119 of the Health and Safety Code. These rules and regulations shall also apply to fabrics or materials inherently nonflammable and, they shall also establish minimum fire-resistive standards for such fabrics or materials.
CFC § 802.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Where stairway enclosure is not required by the California Building Code or the California Fire Code .
802.3 Smoke compartments. In Group I-2 occupancies where the work area is on a story used for sleeping rooms for more than 30 care recipients, the story shall be divided into not less than two compartments by smoke barrier walls in accordance with Section 407.5 of the California Building Code as required for new construction.
802.4 Interior finish. The interior finish and trim of walls and ceilings in exits and corridors in any work area shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code .
Exception: Existing materials that do not comply with the requirements of the California Building Code shall be permitted to be treated with an approved fire-retardant coating in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve the required classification. Compliance with this section shall be demonstrated by testing the fire-retardant coating on the same material and achieving the required performance. Where the same material is not available, testing on a similar material shall be permitted.
802.4.1 Supplemental interior finish requirements. Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50 percent of the floor area, Section 802.4 shall apply to the interior finish and trim in exits and corridors serving the work area throughout the floor.
Exception: Interior finish within tenant spaces that are entirely outside the work area.
802.5 Guards. The requirements of Sections 802.5.1 and 802.5.2 shall apply in all work areas.
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ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 2
802.5.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a floor, such as a balcony or a loading dock, that is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and is not provided with guards, or those in which the existing guards are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be provided with guards.
802.5.2 Design. Where there are no guards or where existing guards must be replaced, the guards shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Building Code .
802.6 Fire-resistance ratings. Where approved by the code official, buildings where an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 of the California Building Code has been added, and the building is now sprinklered throughout, the required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and materials shall be permitted to meet the requirements of the current building code. The building is required to meet the other applicable requirements of the California Building Code .
Plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted indicating which building elements and materials the applicant is requesting the code official to review and approve for determination of applying the current building code fire-resistance ratings. Any special construction features, including fire-resistance-rated assemblies and smoke-resistive assemblies, conditions of occupancy, means-of-egress conditions, fire code deficiencies, approved modifications or approved alternative materials, design and methods of construction, and equipment applying to the building that impact required fire-resistance ratings shall be identified in the evaluation reports submitted.
SECTION 803—FIRE PROTECTION
803.1 Scope. The requirements of this section shall be limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are being performed, and where specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which the work areas are located or otherwise beyond the work area.
CFC § 9.2.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Revise Section 9.2.3.2
9.2.3.2 Sprinklers shall be permitted to be omitted from below the canopies, roofs, balconies, decks or similar projections are combustible construction, provided the exposed finish material on the roof or canopy is noncombustible, limited-combustible or fire retardant treated wood as defined in NFPA 703, Standard for Fire Retardant–Treated Wood and Fire-Retardant Coatings for Building Materials, and the roofs or canopies contains only sprinklered concealed spaces or any of the following unsprinklered combustible concealed spaces:
(1) Combustible concealed spaces filled entirely with noncombustible insulation.
(2) Light or ordinary hazard occupancies where noncombustible or limited-combustible ceilings are directly attached to the bottom of solid wood joists so as to create enclosed joist spaces 160 ft [3] (4.5 m [3] ) or less in volume, including space below insulation that is laid directly on top or within the ceiling joists in an otherwise sprinklered attic [See 11.2.3.1.5.2(9)]. (3) Concealed spaces over isolated small roofs or canopies not exceeding 55 ft [2] (5.1 m [2] ).
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REFERENCED STANDARDS
Delete language to section 9.2.3.3 and reserve section number. 9.2.3.3 Reserved.
Revise Section 9.3.19.1 as follows:*
9.3.19.1* Unless the requirements of 9.2.3.1 or 9.2.3.2 are met, sprinklers shall be installed under exterior roofs, canopies, porte-cochere, balconies, decks or similar projections exceeding 4 ft (1.2 m) in width.
Revise Annex Section A9.3.19.2 as follows:
A9.3.19.2 The presence of planters, newspaper machines and similar items, should not be considered storage.
Add Section 9.3.19.3 as follows:
9.3.19.3 Sprinklers may be omitted for following structures:
(1) Solar photovoltaic panel structures with no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath including storage.
(2) Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and unobstructed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as determined by the enforcing agency.
Add new Sections 16.9.3.1.3.4 and 16.9.3.1.3.5 as follows:
CFC § 701 Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features
The maintenance of assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated is a key component in a passive fire protection philosophy. Chapter 7 sets forth requirements to maintain required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the basics of what construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers need to be maintained as well as defining the owner’s responsibility. Sections 703 through 708, deals with various fire and smoke protection features that must also be maintained.
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Chapter 8 Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
The overall purpose of Chapter 8 is to regulate interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards within buildings. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the CBC, which regulates the interior finishes of new buildings.
Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Chapter 9 prescribes the minimum requirements for active systems of fire protection equipment to perform the following functions: detect a fire, alert the occupants or fire department of a fire emergency, and control smoke and control or extinguish the fire. Generally, the requirements are based on the occupancy, the height and the area of the building because these are the factors that most affect firefighting capabilities and the relative hazard of a specific building or portion thereof. This chapter parallels and is substantially duplicated in Chapter 9 of the CBC; however, this chapter also contains periodic testing criteria that are not contained in the CBC. In addition, the special fire protection system requirements based on use and occupancy found in CBC Chapter 4 are duplicated in CFC Chapter 9 as a user convenience.
Chapter 10 Means of Egress
The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7 of the CBC), interior finish (see Chapter 8 of the CBC), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and intends to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for retroactive requirements to install or upgrade fire safety features to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the CBC. Prior to the 2009 edition, its content existed in the CFC but in a random manner that was neither efficient nor user-friendly. In the 2007/2008 International Code Council (ICC) code development cycle, a code change (F294-07/ 08) was approved that consolidated the retroactive elements of CFC into a single chapter for easier and more efficient reference and application to existing buildings.
Chapter 12 Energy Systems
Frequently asked questions
Can any paint claiming “fire retardant” be used to meet § 803.4?
No. The coating must be an approved product assessed by testing over the same substrate and the application must comply with NFPA 703; blanket marketing claims are not sufficient. § 803.4.
Who decides whether a coating’s test on a “similar” material is acceptable?
The enforcing agency (and the code’s referenced State Fire Marshal requirements for registered chemicals) will evaluate whether a similar‑material test is acceptable; where possible the test should be on the same substrate per § 803.4 and the Existing Building Code exception when the same material is not available.
How often must a fire‑retardant coating be renewed?
The CFC requires maintenance/renewal in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; the code does not specify a universal time period — follow the product instructions and any State Fire Marshal orders. § 803.4; § 807.1.
Is documentation required?
Yes. The product test data showing performance on the substrate, manufacturer’s maintenance instructions, and any labeling/registration required by the State Fire Marshal should be retained and available to the enforcing agency. § 803.4 and Title 19 provisions referenced in the chapter.
If a State Fire Marshal orders retreatment, how quickly must it be done?
Title 19 (referenced in the CFC) requires retreatment or replacement within the time specified in the SFM order (example: the CCR includes a ten‑day requirement in certain circumstances). See the CCR/Title 19 provisions referenced by the CFC.
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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Wall and Ceiling Finish — Existing Buildings
California Fire Code