CFC · California Fire Code

Where and how must exit signs be installed and illuminated?

Exit signs must be placed so any point in a corridor is within 100 feet (or the sign’s listed viewing distance) of a visible sign, use specified letter sizes and high contrast, be illuminated at all times (externally at ≥5 footcandles or listed internal luminance), and — unless they self‑illuminate for 90 minutes — be tied to emergency power that keeps them lit for at least 90 minutes; tactile and low‑level signs have additional mounting heights and locations per the CFC.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Exit signs and directional exit signs must be provided where needed to mark exits and exit access paths so every point in an exit access corridor or exit passageway is within 100 feet (or the sign’s listed viewing distance) of a visible sign — see § 1013.1. Exit signs must be internally or externally illuminated and remain illuminated at all times; externally illuminated faces must have at least 5 footcandles (54 lux) and sign illumination must have an emergency source to maintain illumination for 90 minutes in a power loss unless the sign type provides continuous independent illumination — see § 1013.3, § 1013.6.2–.3 and § 1104.3–.5. Tactile (raised-character and Braille) exit signs, low-level signs and floor-level path markings have specific mounting heights and locations in § 1013.2–.4 and § 1013.7–.8.

The single most important rule: place a visible exit sign so no point in a required exit-access corridor is farther than 100 feet (or the sign’s listed viewing distance) from a visible exit sign, and keep that sign illuminated at all times. § 1013.1, § 1013.3.

Requirements in detail

Where (placement & spacing)

  • Every required exit and exit-access door must be marked by an approved exit sign that is readily visible from any direction of egress travel. § 1013.1.
  • Sign placement rule: any point in an exit-access corridor or exit passageway must be within 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the sign’s listed viewing distance, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign. § 1013.1.
  • Intervening doors within exits and paths that are not immediately obvious require directional signs. § 1013.1.

What the sign must say and tactile signs

  • Tactile (raised-character/Braille) exit signs are required at grade-level exterior exit doors and other specific locations (e.g., exit stair/ramp doors and exit-access doors) with prescribed wording such as “EXIT STAIR DOWN”, “EXIT ROUTE”, etc. § 1013.4.
  • Tactile signs follow accessibility provisions (refer to CBC Chapter 11B) for character height and Braille. § 1013.4.

Graphics, size and contrast

  • Lettering: every exit sign must have plainly legible letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high with principal strokes not less than 3/4 inch (19.1 mm). The word “EXIT” shall have letter widths not less than 2 inches (51 mm) (except the letter “I”), and min spacing 3/8 inch (9.5 mm). Signs larger than these minimums must scale proportionally. § 1013.6.1.
  • Contrast: the word “EXIT” must be in high contrast to the background and clearly discernible when illumination is energized or not. § 1013.6.1.

Illumination: acceptable types and requirements

  • General rule: exit signs shall be internally or externally illuminated. § 1013.3.
  • Internally illuminated signs (electrically powered, self-luminous, photoluminescent) must be listed and installed per the manufacturer and applicable listing standard; they must be illuminated at all times. § 1013.5.
  • Photoluminescent signs must have a charging light source per the manufacturer’s instructions. § 1013.5.1.
  • Externally illuminated sign faces must have intensity not less than 5 footcandles (54 lux). § 1013.6.2.
  • Power / emergency supply: signs must be illuminated at all times and, unless the sign type provides continuous independent illumination, be connected to an emergency power source so illumination continues for not less than 90 minutes after primary power loss (storage batteries, unit equipment or generator) — § 1013.6.3. Exception: approved sign types that provide continuous independent illumination for 90 minutes need not be connected to the emergency system. § 1013.6.3.

Low-level and floor-level signs; path marking

  • Low-level exit signs (Group R‑1): mounting location flush to door or wall with the bottom of the sign between 10 inches and 18 inches above the floor; when mounted on wall, closest edge must be within 4 inches of the door frame (latch side). § 1013.2. Exception: not required in R‑1 buildings fully sprinklered per § 903.3.1.1/1.2.
  • Floor-level exit signs / markers (floor-level): where required, provide additional low-level signs in interior corridors of certain occupancies; bottom of sign not less than 6 inches nor more than 8 inches above floor; for exit/exit-access doors, closest edge within 4 inches of door frame. § 1013.7.
  • Path marking: where exit signs are required there may also be continuous floor-level path marking installed at floor level or no higher than 8 inches above the floor in interior-rated exit corridors of specified unsprinklered occupancies. § 1013.8.

Decision-relevant dimensions & values (quick reference table)

Item Required value or range Where in code (controlling §) Code Reference
Maximum distance from any point to a visible exit sign 100 ft (30 480 mm) or listed viewing distance § 1013.1
Letter height (minimum) 6 in (152 mm) § 1013.6.1
Principal stroke width 3/4 in (19.1 mm) § 1013.6.1
Word “EXIT” letter width (min) 2 in (51 mm) (except “I”) § 1013.6.1
Externally illuminated face intensity 5 footcandles (54 lux) § 1013.6.2 & § 1104.3
Emergency illumination duration 90 minutes (if not continuous independent type) § 1013.6.3 & § 1104.3–.5
Low-level sign bottom height (R‑1) 10–18 in (254–455 mm) above floor § 1013.2
Floor-level sign bottom height 6–8 in (152–203 mm) above floor § 1013.7
Sign edge from door frame (when wall-mounted) within 4 in (102 mm) of latch side § 1013.2 & § 1013.7

Exceptions & special cases

  • Rooms/areas with only one required exit or exit access do not require exit signs. § 1013.1, Exception 1.
  • Exterior main exits that are obviously and clearly identifiable may be exempt if approved by the code official. § 1013.1, Exception 2.
  • Exit signs are not required in certain residential units/Group U or where inmates are housed (Group I‑3) per enumerated exceptions. § 1013.1, Exceptions 3–4.
  • Low-level exit signs for Group R‑1 are not required when the building is protected throughout by an approved automatic sprinkler system as specified. § 1013.2, Exception.
  • Approved sign types that provide continuous illumination independent of external power for not less than 90 minutes need not be tied to the emergency electrical system. § 1013.6.3.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any illuminated decorative sign satisfies the code — signs must meet the size, contrast and listing requirements in § 1013.6.1 and be "approved."
  • Using photoluminescent/ self-luminous signs without a charging light source or without following the manufacturer’s listing — § 1013.5.1 requires a charging source.
  • Not providing emergency power or backup for externally illuminated signs (or using unit batteries alone where prohibited for Group I‑2) — see § 1013.6.3.
  • Mounting low-level/floor-level signs outside the prescribed heights (e.g., mounting an R‑1 low-level sign at 24 inches above floor instead of the required 10–18 inches) — see § 1013.2 and § 1013.7.
  • Failing to ensure any point in a corridor is within 100 ft (or sign listed viewing distance) of a visible sign — this is the common layout error causing rework at plan check. § 1013.1.

Worked example — corridor / exit sign placement & illumination

Scenario: An unsprinklered office building corridor is 160 ft long with a single straight corridor and exit at the far end. The corridor has a cross corridor at 60 ft from the entrance and the travel path continues to the exit at the far end.

Apply the rule:

  • Because any point in the corridor must be within 100 ft of a visible exit sign (or the sign’s listed viewing distance), one sign at the far exit only is not sufficient: the point at the entrance is 160 ft from the exit sign ( > 100 ft). § 1013.1.
  • Place an additional exit sign at the cross corridor/intersection (near the 60 ft point) so the furthest point to the nearest visible sign is ≤ 100 ft. That will make the entrance-to-nearest-sign distance 60 ft and the midpoints within the 100 ft requirement. § 1013.1.
  • Choose an externally illuminated sign with face intensity ≥ 5 footcandles (54 lux) and connect sign lighting to the building emergency system so illumination continues for 90 minutes if primary power is lost. § 1013.6.2–.3.
  • If the corridor serves wheelchair users and includes doors to exit stair enclosures at grade level, provide tactile exit signs at those doors per § 1013.4.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 1013.1 — Where exit signs are required and the 100‑ft rule.
  • § 1013.2 — Low‑level exit signs (Group R‑1) mounting height and exception.
  • § 1013.3 — Illumination (internally or externally).
  • § 1013.4 — Raised character and Braille (tactile) exit signs locations.
  • § 1013.5 / 1013.5.1 — Internally illuminated and photoluminescent signs; listing and charging requirements.
  • § 1013.6.1–.3 — Graphics, external illumination level, power source and emergency duration.
  • § 1013.7–.8 — Floor‑level signs and path marking requirements.
  • § 1104.3–.5 — Exit sign illumination and emergency power requirements for existing buildings (referenced).
  • CBC Chapter 11B — Accessibility details for tactile signs (as referenced by § 1013.4).

Code references

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

  • CFC § 1013.1 High relevance — show source text

    2. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of a stairway or ramp, shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the following words, as appropriate:

    2.1. “EXIT STAIR DOWN”

    2.2. “EXIT RAMP DOWN”

    2.3. “EXIT STAIR UP”

    2.4. “EXIT RAMP UP”

    3. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of an exit enclosure or an exit passageway shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words, “EXIT ROUTE.” 4. Each exit access door from an interior room or area to a corridor or hallway that is required to comply with Section 1013.1 shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words “EXIT ROUTE.” 5. Each exit door through a horizontal exit that is required to comply with Section 1013.1 shall be identified by a sign with the words, “TO EXIT.”

    Raised characters and braille exit signs shall comply with Chapter 11B of the California Building Code.

    [BE] 1013.5 Internally illuminated exit signs. Electrically powered, self-luminous and photoluminescent exit signs shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 294 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and Section 1203. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times.

    1013.5.1 Photoluminescent exit signs. Photoluminescent exit signs shall be provided with an illumination source to charge the exit sign in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

    [BE] 1013.6 Externally illuminated exit signs. Externally illuminated exit signs shall comply with Sections 1013.6.1 through 1013.6.3.

    [BE] 1013.6.1 Graphics. Every exit sign and directional exit sign shall have plainly legible letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) wide. The word “EXIT” shall have letters having a width not less than 2 inches (51 mm) wide, except the letter “I,” and the minimum spacing between letters shall be not less than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm). Signs larger than the minimum established in this section shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to their height.

    The word “EXIT” shall be in high contrast with the background and shall be clearly discernible when the means of exit sign illumination is or is not energized. If a chevron directional indicator is provided as part of the exit sign, the construction shall be such that the direction of the chevron directional indicator cannot be readily changed.

    [BE] 1013.6.2 Exit sign illumination. The face of an exit sign illuminated from an external source shall have an intensity of not less than 5 footcandles (54 lux).

  • CFC § 10-35 High relevance — show source text

    1. Exit signs are not required where inmates are housed or held in dayrooms, sleeping rooms or dormitories in occupancies in Group I-3.

    2. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an emergency.

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    [BE] 1013.2 Low-level exit signs in Group R-1. See Section 1013.7.

    The bottom of the sign shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm) nor more than 18 inches (455 mm) above the floor level. The sign shall be flush mounted to the door or wall. Where mounted on the wall, the edge of the sign shall be within 4 inches (102 mm) of the door frame on the latch side.

    Exception: Low-level exit signs are not required in Group R-1 occupancies when the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    [BE] 1013.3 Illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or externally illuminated.

    Exception: Tactile signs required by Section 1013.4 need not be provided with illumination.

    [BE] 1013.4 Raised character and braille exit signs. Tactile exit signs shall be required at the following locations: 1. Each grade-level exterior exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1 shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the word, “EXIT.”

    2. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of a stairway or ramp, shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the following words, as appropriate:

    2.1. “EXIT STAIR DOWN”

    2.2. “EXIT RAMP DOWN”

    2.3. “EXIT STAIR UP”

    2.4. “EXIT RAMP UP”

    3. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of an exit enclosure or an exit passageway shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words, “EXIT ROUTE.” 4. Each exit access door from an interior room or area to a corridor or hallway that is required to comply with Section 1013.1 shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words “EXIT ROUTE.” 5. Each exit door through a horizontal exit that is required to comply with Section 1013.1 shall be identified by a sign with the words, “TO EXIT.”

    Raised characters and braille exit signs shall comply with Chapter 11B of the California Building Code.

    [BE] 1013.5 Internally illuminated exit signs. Electrically powered, self-luminous and photoluminescent exit signs shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 294 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and Section 1203. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times.

  • CFC § 1013.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    1013.5.1 Photoluminescent exit signs. Photoluminescent exit signs shall be provided with an illumination source to charge the exit sign in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

    1013.6 Externally illuminated exit signs. Externally illuminated exit signs shall comply with Sections 1013.6.1 through 1013.6.3.

    1013.6.1 Graphics. Every exit sign and directional exit sign shall have plainly legible letters not less than 6 inches (152 mm) high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) wide. The word “EXIT” shall have letters having a width not less than 2 inches (51 mm) wide, except the letter “I,” and the minimum spacing between letters shall be not less than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm). Signs larger than the minimum established in this section shall have letter widths, strokes and spacing in proportion to their height.

    The word “EXIT” shall be in high contrast with the background and shall be clearly discernible when the means of exit sign illumination is or is not energized. If a chevron directional indicator is provided as part of the exit sign, the construction shall be such that the direction of the chevron directional indicator cannot be readily changed.

    1013.6.2 Exit sign illumination. The face of an exit sign illuminated from an external source shall have an intensity of not less than 5 footcandles (54 lux).

    1013.6.3 Power source. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times. To ensure continued illumination for a duration of not less than 90 minutes in case of primary power loss, the sign illumination means shall be connected to an emergency power system provided from storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emergency power system shall be in accordance with Chapter 27. Group I-2, Condition 2 exit sign illumination shall not be provided by unit equipment batteries only.

    Exception: Approved exit sign illumination types that provide continuous illumination independent of external power sources for a duration of not less than 90 minutes, in case of primary power loss, are not required to be connected to an emergency electrical system.

    1013.7 Floor-level exit signs. Where exit signs are required by Chapter 10, additional approved low-level exit signs which are internally or externally illuminated photoluminescent or self-luminous, shall be provided in all interior corridors of Group A, E, I and R-2.1 occupan- cies and in all areas serving guest rooms of hotels in Group R, Division 1 occupancies.

    Exceptions: 1. Group A occupancies that are protected throughout by an approved supervised fire sprinkler system. 2. Group E Occupancies where direct exits have been provided from each classroom. 3. Group I and R-2.1 occupancies which are provided with smoke barriers constructed in accordance with Section 407.5.

    4. Group I-3 occupancies.

    The bottom of the sign shall not be less than 6 inches (152 mm) or more than 8 inches (203 mm) above the floor level and shall indicate the path of exit travel. For exit and exit-access doors, the sign shall be on the door or adjacent to the door with the closest edge of the sign or marker within 4 inches (102 mm) of the door frame.

  • CFC § 1013.6.3 High relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1013.6.3 Power source. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times. To ensure continued illumination for a duration of not less than 90 minutes in case of primary power loss, the sign illumination means shall be connected to an emergency power system provided from storage batteries, unit equipment or an on-site generator. The installation of the emergency power system shall be in accordance with Section 1203. Group I-2 exit sign illumination shall not be provided by unit equipment batteries only.

    Exception: Approved exit sign illumination types that provide continuous illumination independent of external power sources for a duration of not less than 90 minutes, in case of primary power loss, are not required to be connected to an emergency electrical system.

    1013.7 Floor-level exit signs. Where exit signs are required by Chapter 10, additional approved low-level exit signs which are internally or externally illuminated photoluminescent or self-luminous shall be provided in all interior corridors of Group A, E, I and R-2.1 occupan- cies and in all areas serving guest rooms of hotels in Group R, Division 1 occupancies.

    Exceptions: 1. Group A occupancies that are protected throughout by an approved supervised fire sprinkler system. 2. Group E occupancies where direct exits have been provided from each classroom. 3. Group I and R-2.1 occupancies which are provided with smoke barriers constructed in accordance with Section 407.5 of the California Building Code.

    4. Group I-3 occupancies.

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    The bottom of the sign shall not be less than 6 inches (152 mm) or more than 8 inches (203 mm) above the floor level and shall indicate the path of exit travel. For exit and exit-access doors, the sign shall be on the door or adjacent to the door with the closest edge of the sign or marker within 4 inches (102 mm) of the door frame.

    Note: Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143, this California amendment applies to all newly constructed buildings or structures, subject to this section, for which a building permit is issued (or construction commenced, where no building permit is issued) on or after January 1, 1989.

    1013.8 Path marking. When exit signs are required by Chapter 10, in addition to approved floor-level exit signs, approved path marking shall be installed at floor level or no higher than 8 inches (203 mm) above the floor level in all interior-rated exit corridors of unsprin- klered Group A, R-1 and R-2 occupancies.

    Such marking shall be continuous, except as interrupted by door-ways, corridors or other such architectural features, in order to provide a visible delineation along the path of travel.

    Note: Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143, the California amendments of this section shall apply to all newly constructed buildings or structures, subject to this section, for which a building permit is issued (or construction commenced, where no building permit is issued) on or after January 1, 1989.

    SECTION 1014—HANDRAILS

  • CFC § 1103.10 High relevance — show source text

    No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale or sell any carbon monoxide device in the state of California unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

    1103.10 Medical gases. Medical gases stored and transferred in health-care-related facilities shall be in accordance with Chapter 53.

    SECTION 1104—MEANS OF EGRESS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS

    1104.1 General. Means of egress in existing buildings shall comply with the minimum egress requirements where specified in Table 1103.1 as further enumerated in Sections 1104.2 through 1104.25, and the building code that applied at the time of construction. Where the provisions of this chapter conflict with the building code that applied at the time of construction, the most restrictive provision shall apply. Existing buildings that were not required to comply with a building code at the time of construction shall comply with the minimum egress requirements where specified in Table 1103.1 as further enumerated in Sections 1104.2 through 1104.25.

    1104.2 Elevators, escalators and moving walks. Elevators, escalators and moving walks shall not be used as a component of a required means of egress.

    Exceptions:

    1. Elevators used as an accessible means of egress where allowed by Section 1009.4.
    2. Previously approved elevators, escalators and moving walks in existing buildings.

    1104.3 Exit sign illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or externally illuminated. The face of an exit sign illuminated from an external source shall have an intensity of not less than 5 footcandles (54 lux). Internally illuminated signs shall provide equivalent luminance and be listed for the purpose.

    Exception: Approved self-luminous signs that provide evenly illuminated letters shall have a minimum luminance of 0.06 footlamberts (0.21 cd/m [2] ).

    1104.4 Power source. Where emergency illumination is required in Section 1104.5, exit signs shall be visible under emergency illumination conditions.

    Exception: Approved signs that provide continuous illumination independent of external power sources are not required to be connected to an emergency electrical system.

    1104.5 Illumination emergency power. Where means of egress illumination is provided, the power supply for means of egress illumination shall normally be provided by the premises’ electrical supply. In the event of power supply failure, illumination shall be automatically provided from an emergency system for the following occupancies where such occupancies require two or more means of egress:

    1. Group A having 50 or more occupants.

    Exception: Assembly occupancies used exclusively as a place of worship and having an occupant load of less than 300.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 11-13

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    CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS

    1. Group B buildings three or more stories in height, buildings with 100 or more occupants above or below a level of exit discharge serving the occupants or buildings with 1,000 or more total occupants.

    2. Group E in interior exit access and exit stairways and ramps, corridors, windowless areas with student occupancy, shops and laboratories.

    3. Group F having more than 100 occupants.

    Exception: Buildings used only during daylight hours and that are provided with windows for natural light in accordance with the California Building Code .

    1. Group I.
  • CFC § 446.8.2 High relevance — show source text

    446.8.2 Standby personnel. Per the California Fire Code, Section 2404.20, when, in the opinion of the fire chief, it is essential for public safety, the owner, agent or lessee shall employ one or more qualified persons, as required and approved by the chief, to be on duty at such place. Such individuals shall be in uniform or otherwise easily identifiable.

    Standby personnel shall be subject to the fire chief’s orders at all times when so employed and shall remain on duty during the times such places are open to the public or when such activity is being conducted.

    Before the start of any activity requiring standby personnel, such individuals shall: 1. Inspect the required fire appliances to ensure they are in the proper place and in good working order. 2. Inspect all exits to verify accessibility and proper operation.

    While on duty, such individuals shall not be required or permitted to perform any duties other than those specified by the fire chief.

    446.8.3 Open-flame devices. The use of candles and other open-flame devices shall be in accordance with California Fire Code Section 308.1.7.

    446.9 Portable fire extinguishers and other fire appliances. Portable fire extinguishers shall be located to be readily accessible. Its type, location and spacing throughout the facility shall be in accordance with the provisions of Title 19, Chapter 3 and California Fire Code Section 906.1. Other fire appliances shall be maintained at the site as required by the fire chief.

    446.10 Fire alarm systems. An approved manual fire alarm system conforming with the provisions of the California Fire Code, Section 907.2.1 shall be provided in all Type 3 winery caves.

    446.11 Exits.

    446.11.1 Distribution. Exits shall be located remotely from each other and arranged to minimize any possibility that more than one may be blocked off by any one fire or other emergency condition.

    446.11.2 Number. Winery caves shall be provided with a minimum of two exits.

    Assembly areas of Type 3 winery caves shall be provided with exits as required by the California Building Code for Group A Occupancies.

    446.12 Exit illumination.

    446.12.1 General. Exits shall be illuminated to a minimum intensity of not less than 1 foot-candle (10.76 lx) at floor level whenever the winery cave is occupied. Fixtures providing exit illumination shall be supplied from a dedicated circuit or source of power used only for exit illumination.

    446.12.2 Separate sources of power. The power supply for exit illumination may be provided by the premises’ wiring system. In the event of its failure, illumination shall be automatically provided from an emergency system in Types 2 and 3 winery caves. Emergency systems shall be supplied from storage batteries or an on-site generator set, and the system shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of the California Electrical Code.

    446.13 Exit signs. Exit signs shall be installed at required exits and where otherwise necessary to clearly indicate the exits from assem- bly areas in Type 3 winery caves.

    446.14 Maximum occupant load. Occupant load requirements in the assembly areas of Type 3 winery caves shall be in accordance with Section 1004.

  • CFC § 1012.10.1 High relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1012.10.1 Curb, rail, wall or barrier. A curb, rail, wall or barrier shall be provided to serve as edge protection. A curb shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in height. Barriers shall be constructed so that the barrier prevents the passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere, where any portion of the sphere is within 4 inches (102 mm) of the floor or ground surface.

    [BE] 1012.10.2 Extended floor or ground surface. The floor or ground surface of the ramp run or landing shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) minimum beyond the inside face of a handrail complying with Section 1014.

    SECTION 1013—EXIT SIGNS

    [BE] 1013.1 Where required. Exits and exit access doors shall be marked by an approved exit sign readily visible from any direction of egress travel. The path of egress travel to exits and within exits shall be marked by readily visible exit signs to clearly indicate the direction of egress travel in cases where the exit or the path of egress travel is not immediately visible to the occupants. Intervening means of egress doors within exits shall be marked by exit signs. Exit sign placement shall be such that any point in an exit access corridor or exit passageway is within 100 feet (30 480 mm) or the listed viewing distance of the sign, whichever is less, from the nearest visible exit sign.

    Exceptions:

    1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access.

    2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the fire code official.

    3. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U and individual sleeping units or dwelling units in Group R-1, R-2 or R-3 or R-3.1 .

    4. Exit signs are not required where inmates are housed or held in dayrooms, sleeping rooms or dormitories in occupancies in Group I-3.

    5. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an emergency.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 10-35

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    [BE] 1013.2 Low-level exit signs in Group R-1. See Section 1013.7.

    The bottom of the sign shall be not less than 10 inches (254 mm) nor more than 18 inches (455 mm) above the floor level. The sign shall be flush mounted to the door or wall. Where mounted on the wall, the edge of the sign shall be within 4 inches (102 mm) of the door frame on the latch side.

    Exception: Low-level exit signs are not required in Group R-1 occupancies when the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    [BE] 1013.3 Illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or externally illuminated.

    Exception: Tactile signs required by Section 1013.4 need not be provided with illumination.

  • CFC § 209.5.2.4 High relevance — show source text

    A6.209.5.2.4 Fluorescent lamps with a minimum color rendering index (CRI) of 80; or

    A6.209.5.2.5 Light emitting diodes (LEDs) with a power supply having an efficiency of 80 percent or greater; or

    Exception: Single voltage external power supplies that are designed to convert 120 volt AC input into lower voltage DC or AC output and have a nameplate output power less than or equal to 250 watts, shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20.

    A6.209.5.2.6 Compact fluorescent lamps that do not contain medium screw base sockets (E24/E26); or

    A6.209.5.2.7 Electronic ballasts with a fundamental output frequency not less than 20 kHz;

    Exception 1 to Section A6.209.5: Unfiltered incandescent lamps that are not part of an electronic message center (EMC), an internally illuminated sign or an externally illuminated sign.

    Exception 2 to Section A6.209.5: Exit signs. Exit signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-31

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

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    Exception 3 to Section A6.209.5: Traffic Signs. Traffic signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    A6.209.6 Sign lighting controls. All signs with permanently connected lighting shall meet the requirements below:

    1. Automatic time switch control. All signs with permanently connected lighting shall be controlled with an automatic time switch control that complies with the applicable requirements of Section A6.209.1.
    2. Photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time switch control. All outdoor signs shall be controlled with a photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time switch control.

    Exception: Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours. 3. Dimming. All outdoor signs shall be controlled with a dimmer that provides the ability to automatically reduce sign power by a minimum of 65 percent during nighttime hours. Exceptions:

    1. Signs that are illuminated for less than 1 hour per day during daylight hours.
    2. Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours.
    3. Metal halide, high pressure sodium, cold cathode and neon lamps used to illuminated signs or parts of signs.
    4. Demand Responsive Electronic Message Center Control. An Electronic Message Center (EMC) having a new connected lighting power load greater than 15 kW shall have a control installed that is capable of reducing the lighting power by a minimum of 30 percent when receiving a demand response signal that is sent out by the local utility.
    5. EMCs required by a health or life safety statue ordinance or regulation, including but not limited to exit signs and traffic signs.
  • CFC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. Exit signs are not required in rooms or areas that require only one exit or exit access.

    2. Main exterior exit doors or gates that are obviously and clearly identifiable as exits need not have exit signs where approved by the building official.

    3. Exit signs are not required in occupancies in Group U and individual sleeping units or dwelling units in Group R-1, R-2 or R-3 or R-3.1 .

    4. Exit signs are not required where inmates are housed or held in dayrooms, sleeping rooms or dormitories in occupancies in Group I-3.

    5. In occupancies in Groups A-4 and A-5, exit signs are not required on the seating side of vomitories or openings into seating areas where exit signs are provided in the concourse that are readily apparent from the vomitories. Egress lighting is provided to identify each vomitory or opening within the seating area in an emergency.

    1013.2 Low-level exit signs in Group R-1. See Section 1013.7.

    1013.3 Illumination. Exit signs shall be internally or externally illuminated.

    Exception: Tactile signs required by Section 1013.4 need not be provided with illumination.

    10-34 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1013.4 Raised character and braille exit signs. [HCD 1-AC] Tactile exit signs shall be required at the following locations: 1. Each grade-level exterior exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the word, “EXIT”.

    2. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of a stairway or ramp shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the following words as appropriate:

    2.1. “EXIT STAIR DOWN”

    2.2. “EXIT RAMP DOWN”

    2.3. “EXIT STAIR UP”

    2.4. “EXIT RAMP UP”

    3. Each exit door that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, and that leads directly to a grade-level exterior exit by means of an exit enclosure or an exit passageway shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words, “EXIT ROUTE.” 4. Each exit access door from an interior room or area to a corridor or hallway that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, shall be identified by a tactile exit sign with the words “EXIT ROUTE.” 5. Each exit door through a horizontal exit that is required to comply with Section 1013.1, shall be identified by a sign with the words, “TO EXIT.”

    Raised character and Braille exit signs shall comply with Chapter 11A, Section 1143A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-703.1, 11B-703.2, 11B-703.3 and 11B-703.5.

    1013.5 Internally illuminated exit signs. Electrically powered, self-luminous and photoluminescent exit signs shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 924 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and Chapter 27. Exit signs shall be illuminated at all times.

  • CFC § 7.1 High relevance — show source text

    P103.6 Exits. Exiting shall be in accordance with Chapter 10 and this section. 1. Two exits shall be provided from each room with an occupant load of 50 or more. Required exit doors shall swing in the direc- tion of egress. 2. Illuminated exit signs shall be provided at each exit serving an occupant load of 50 or more. 3. Exit doors serving an occupant load of 50 or more shall not be provided with a latch or lock unless it is panic hardware. 4. When tents or membrane structures are approved for use, curtains shall not be allowed to cover the exits. 5. Emergency lighting shall be provided in exit pathways. 6. Exhibits and decorative materials shall not obstruct, confuse or obscure exits, exit pathways, exit signs or emergency lights. 7. Additional exit pathway markings, such as low level exit signs and directional exit path markings, may be required.

    P103.7 Fire protection. Haunted houses and ghost walks shall be provided with fire protection systems in accordance with Appendix P103.7.

    Exception: When the total floor area of haunted houses or indoor portions of ghost walks are less than 1,000 square feet and the travel distance to an exit is less than 50 feet.

    P103.7.1 Fire sprinkler protection. An automatic fire sprinkler system shall be required for haunted houses and indoor portions of ghost walks. Fire sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with Section 903.

    P103.7.2 Fire detection systems. An approved automatic fire detection system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.12, as required for amusement buildings.

    P103.7.3 Alarm. Activation of any single smoke detector, the fire sprinkler system or other automatic fire detection device shall be in accordance with Section 907.2.12.1.

    P103.7.4 Emergency voice alarm. Provide an emergency voice/alarm communication system in accordance with Section 907.2.12.3, as required for amusement buildings.

    P103.7.5 Portable fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers shall have a minimum 2A-10B:C rating. Fire extinguishers shall be properly mounted and shall be visible and accessible at all times. Clearly identify locations with signs or reflective tape. Fire extinguishers shall be located within 50 of feet travel distance from anywhere in the building.

    P103.8 Electrical. When required, a permit shall be obtained from the local building official.

    P103.8.1 Extension cords. Extension cords shall be UL listed and shall be appropriate for the intended use.

    P103.8.2 Power strips. Only UL listed power strips with overcurrent protection shall be used when the number of outlets provided is inadequate. Power strips shall be plugged directly into the outlet, and shall not be plugged into one another in series.

    P103.8.3 String lighting. Manufacturer’s installation guidelines shall be followed for the maximum allowable number of string lights that can be connected. When connecting string lights together, the total amperage of all string lights shall be calculated to ensure that they do not exceed the amperage for the extension cord and circuit.

    P103.8.4 Protection. All extension cords and power strips shall be adequately protected from foot traffic.

Frequently asked questions

When can an exit sign be omitted at an exterior door?

The code allows omission where the exterior door or gate is obviously and clearly identifiable as an exit and where the authority having jurisdiction approves; also rooms with only one required exit need not have an exit sign. See § 1013.1.

Do exit sign faces have a minimum light level?

Yes — an externally illuminated exit-sign face must be at least 5 footcandles (54 lux). Internally illuminated signs must provide equivalent luminance and be listed for the purpose. § 1013.6.2 and § 1104.3.

How long must exit signs remain lit after power failure?

Unless the sign type provides continuous independent illumination, sign illumination must be supported by an emergency power system that maintains illumination for not less than 90 minutes after primary power loss. § 1013.6.3.

Are photoluminescent exit signs allowed without a light source?

No — photoluminescent exit signs must be provided with an illumination source to charge the sign per the manufacturer’s instructions. § 1013.5.1.

Where are tactile (Braille) exit signs required?

Tactile signs are required at grade-level exterior exit doors and at exit doors that lead directly to grade-level exterior exits by stairway/ramp, as well as at certain exit-access doors — see § 1013.4 and the referenced accessibility provisions in CBC Chapter 11B.

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