CFC · California Fire Code

What additional criteria does Appendix D provide for fire apparatus access roads?

Appendix D gives jurisdictions the specific dimensions and construction criteria that flesh out the baseline rules in Section 503. That includes minimum widths (20 ft baseline, **26 ft** where hydrants or aerial apparatus apply), vertical clearance (**13 ft 6 in**), dead‑end turnaround geometries tied to length bands, grade limits (**10%**), gates/signs, and the critical requirement that any bridge or elevated segment be designed and posted to carry fire‑apparatus live loads per **§ 503.2.6** (AASHTO HB‑17).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Appendix D supplies the detailed, decision‑relevant dimensions, load, turnaround and special‑use criteria that supplement the baseline requirements in § 503.2.6. In plain English: where a fire access road includes a bridge or elevated surface the structure must be designed to carry fire apparatus loads and posted/guarded as required by the fire code official (§ 503.2.6). Appendix D then lists minimum widths, grade limits, hydrant adjacency widths, dead‑end turnaround designs, aerial‑apparatus access criteria and gate/sign standards that jurisdictions use to implement Section 503 (see Appendix D generally).

The single most important rule: any bridge or elevated surface that is part of a fire apparatus access road must be designed and posted to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus in accordance with § 503.2.6 and AASHTO HB‑17.

Requirements in detail

Scope and application

  • Appendix D is guidance that becomes mandatory only if adopted by the jurisdiction; it provides specific criteria to implement the general requirements of Chapter 5, Section 503.
  • Appendix D requires access driving surfaces capable of supporting fire apparatus up to 75,000 pounds where specified. § D102.1.

Key dimensions, limits and required features

Use this decision table when you must pick dimensions or check compliance:

Decision dimension / value Required value(s) (bold = threshold) Code Reference
Minimum unobstructed road width (baseline) 20 ft (exclusive of shoulders) § 503.2.1
Minimum road width where a hydrant is on the road 26 ft (exclusive of shoulders) § D103.1
Vertical clearance 13 ft 6 in § 503.2.1
Maximum dead‑end distance before turnaround required 150 ft (dead ends >150 ft require turnarounds) § 503.2.5 and Table D103.4
Dead‑end widths & required turnarounds 0–150 ft: 20 ft, none. 151–500 ft: 20 ft + 120‑ft hammerhead or 60‑ft “Y” or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac. 501–750 ft: 26 ft + same turnarounds. Over 750 ft: special approval required. Table D103.4 (D103.4)
Grade limit 10% (exception allowed with approval) § D103.2
Turning radius Determined by the fire code official (site/apparatus dependent) § 503.2.4 and § D103.3
Bridge / elevated surface load standard Designed/maintained per AASHTO HB‑17; live load sufficient for imposed fire apparatus loads; vehicle load limits posted where required § 503.2.6
Elevated surface edge protection Where adjacent surfaces are NOT designed for emergency vehicles, approved barriers, signs, or both are required § 503.2.6
Aerial apparatus access trigger (height) Where vertical distance to highest roof surface > 30 ft, aerial access route required § D105.1
Aerial access width near building 26 ft minimum unobstructed width (exclusive of shoulders) in the immediate vicinity of the building § D105.2
Aerial access proximity to building Located not less than 15 ft and not greater than 30 ft from the building and parallel to an entire side § D105.3
Gate minimum clear widths Single gate: 20 ft; for divided roadway: 12 ft per side § D103.5 (1)
Fire lane signage Roads 20–26 ft: signs on both sides; roads >26 ft and <32 ft: signs on one side (sizes specified in § D103.6) § D103.6, § D103.6.1, § D103.6.2

(See Table D103.4 for dead‑end breakpoints and exact turnaround geometries.)

Bridge and elevated surface specifics (the controlling text)

  • Any bridge or elevated portion of an access road must be constructed per AASHTO HB‑17 and be sized for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus; vehicle load limits must be posted at both entrances where required by the fire code official. Approved barriers or signs are required where adjacencies present a hazard (§ 503.2.6).

Turnarounds and dead‑end controls

  • Appendix D gives standard turnaround options (120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft “Y”, 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac) tied to dead‑end lengths in Table D103.4; when dead ends exceed the table thresholds, the plan requires “special approval.”

Exceptions & special cases

  • The fire code official may authorize increases, decreases or alternatives based on sprinklering, topography, waterways or other constraints (see exceptions to § 503.1.1 and the Appendix D exceptions). For example, a fully sprinklered building may justify a change to the 150‑ft requirement. § 503.1.1 exceptions and multiple Appendix D exceptions apply.
  • Grades steeper than 10% are allowed only with approval by the fire code official (§ D103.2).
  • Projects with very large footprints or dwelling counts have additional mandatory access counts: e.g., commercial buildings > 62,000 ft² or multi‑family projects > 100–200 units have separate Appendix D thresholds for requiring two access roads (see D104 and D106).
  • Aerial apparatus access can be modified where Type I construction, full sprinklering and an enclosed stair/standpipe arrangement are provided and approved by the fire code official (§ D105.1 exception).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming Appendix D is automatically mandatory — Appendix D is guidance and must be adopted or referenced by the adopting ordinance to be mandatory; otherwise Section 503 controls.
  • Using the baseline 20 ft width when a hydrant is present — Appendix D requires 26 ft where a hydrant is located on the access road. Do not rely on the 20 ft minimum in that case.
  • Forgetting to design bridges/elevated surfaces to the live load of fire apparatus and failing to post posted vehicle limits or provide edge protections as required by § 503.2.6.
  • Omitting turnaround geometry on dead ends longer than 150 ft (Table D103.4) — this is a frequent field failure.
  • Assuming steeper grades are acceptable without approval — grades > 10% need fire code official approval.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A new private subdivision road is a 600‑ft dead‑end that includes a stream crossing on a bridge and a fire hydrant located on the road. The local fire department uses standard engine apparatus.

Apply the rules:

  1. Dead‑end length 600 ft falls in the 501–750 ft band in Table D103.4; required minimum unobstructed width for that band is 26 ft and a turnaround is required (120‑ft hammerhead, 60‑ft “Y” or 96‑ft cul‑de‑sac). Table D103.4 (D103.4).
  2. Because a fire hydrant is on the access road, Appendix D also calls for a 26‑ft minimum width where a hydrant is located (D103.1), which matches the Table requirement — so design 26 ft clear width overall.
  3. The bridge that crosses the stream is part of the fire access road; per § 503.2.6 it must be designed per AASHTO HB‑17 and to carry the imposed fire apparatus loads (i.e., support the department’s apparatus — Appendix D expects surfaces to accommodate up to 75,000 lbs where specified). Post vehicle limits at both bridge entrances if required by the authority having jurisdiction. § 503.2.6 and D102.1.
  4. Provide an approved turnaround — for example, a 120‑ft hammerhead located near the dead‑end — and ensure vertical clearance of 13 ft 6 in on the route. Table D103.4, § 503.2.1.

Result: Design the road as 26 ft clear width, include a 120‑ft hammerhead turnaround, design the bridge to AASHTO HB‑17 to carry the local apparatus, post limits/ provide barriers as required, and maintain vertical clearance 13 ft 6 in.

Related provisions

  • § 503.1.1 — Required reach: fire apparatus access roads to within 150 ft of all parts of the exterior walls (exceptions apply).
  • § 503.2.1 — Minimum width and vertical clearance (20 ft / 13 ft 6 in baseline).
  • § 503.2.5 — Dead‑end fire apparatus access roads length and turnaround requirement.
  • § 503.2.6 — Bridges and elevated surfaces (design to AASHTO HB‑17; posting; barriers).
  • § D102.1 — Required driving surface load capacity (up to 75,000 lbs).
  • § D103.1 – D103.6 — Widths with hydrants, grade, turning radius guidance, gates and signage.
  • § D103.4 (Table D103.4) — Dead‑end length bands and the specific turnaround geometries.
  • § D105.1 – D105.4 — Aerial fire apparatus access roads (when required, width, proximity, obstructions).

Code references

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

  • CFC § 1.1. High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet (45 720 mm) where any of the following conditions occur:

    1.1. The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3. 1.2. Fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided. 1.3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies. 2. Where approved by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be permitted to be exempted or modified for solar photovoltaic power generation facilities.

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    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    503.1.2 Additional access. The fire code official is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access.

    503.1.3 High-piled storage. Fire department vehicle access to buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 32.

    503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.05(a)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roads)

    (a) Roads. Required access roads from every building to a public street shall be all-weather hard-surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-of-way not less than 20 feet in width. Such right-of-way shall be unobstructed and maintained only as access to the public street.

    Exception: The enforcing agency may waive or modify this requirement if in his opinion such all-weather hard-surfaced condition is not necessary in the interest of public safety and welfare.

    503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).

    503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require or permit modifications to the required access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.

    503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.

    503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire code official.

    503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus.

  • CFC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    accesses.

    SECTION D105—AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    D105.1 Where required. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest roof surface exceeds 30 feet (9144 mm), approved aerial fire apparatus access roads shall be provided. For purposes of this section, the highest roof surface shall be

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    determined by measurement to the eave of a pitched roof, the intersection of the roof to the exterior wall, or the top of parapet walls, whichever is greater.

    Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, buildings of Type IA, Type IB or Type IIA construction equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and having firefighter access through an enclosed stairway with a Class I standpipe from the lowest level of fire department vehicle access to all roof surfaces.

    D105.2 Width. Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders, in the immediate vicinity of the building or portion thereof.

    D105.3 Proximity to building. One or more of the required access routes meeting this condition shall be located not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) and not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. The side of the building on which the aerial fire apparatus access road is positioned shall be approved by the fire code official.

    D105.4 Obstructions. Overhead utility and power lines shall not be located over the aerial fire apparatus access road or between the aerial fire apparatus road and the building. Other obstructions shall be permitted to be placed with the approval of the fire code official.

    SECTION D106—MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS

    D106.1 Projects having more than 100 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 100 dwelling units shall be equipped throughout with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

    Exception: Projects having up to 200 dwelling units shall have not fewer than one approved fire apparatus access road where all buildings, including nonresidential occupancies, are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    D106.2 Projects having more than 200 dwelling units. Multiple-family residential projects having more than 200 dwelling units shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads regardless of whether they are equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

    D106.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one-half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the property or area to be served, measured in a straight line between accesses.

    SECTION D107—ONE- OR TWO-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENTS

    D107.1 One- or two-family dwelling residential developments. Developments of one- or two-family dwellings where the number of dwelling units exceeds 30 shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads.

  • CFC § 304.8 High 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.

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    D FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    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 D contains more detailed elements for use with the basic access requirements found in Section 503, which gives some minimum criteria, such as a maximum length of 150 feet and a minimum width of 20 feet, but in many cases does not state specific criteria. This appendix, like Appendices B and C, is a tool for jurisdictions looking for guidance in establishing access requirements and includes criteria for multiple-family residential developments, large one- and two-family subdivisions, specific examples for various types of turnarounds for fire department apparatus and parking regulatory signage.

    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 D101—GENERAL

    D101.1 Scope. Fire apparatus access roads shall be in accordance with this appendix and all other applicable requirements of the California Fire Code .

    SECTION D102—REQUIRED ACCESS

    D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 75,000 pounds (34 050 kg).

    SECTION D103—MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS

    D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders (see Figure D103.1).

    FIGURE D103.1—DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND

    60-FOOT “Y”

    MINIMUM CLEARANCE AROUND A FIRE HYDRANT

    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

    D103.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 percent in grade.

    Exception: Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by the fire code official.

    D103.3 Turning radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by the fire code official.

    D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.

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  • CFC § 6.1 High relevance — show source text

    D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria:

    1. Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
    2. Gates shall be of the horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift or vertical pivot type.
    3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person.
    4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective.
    5. Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be approved by the fire code official.
    6. Methods of locking shall be submitted for approval by the fire code official.
    7. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
    8. Gates intended for automatic operation shall be designed, constructed and installed to comply with the requirements of ASTM F2200.

    D103.6 Signs. Where required by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be marked with permanent “NO PARKING— FIRE LANE” signs complying with Figure D103.6. Signs shall have a minimum dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) wide by 18 inches (457 mm) high and have red letters on a white reflective background. Signs shall be posted on one or both sides of the fire apparatus road as required by Section D103.6.1 or D103.6.2.

    FIGURE D103.6—FIRE LANE SIGNS

    SIGN TYPE "A" SIGN TYPE "C" SIGN TYPE "D"

    18 ″

    12 ″ 12 ″ 12 ″

    D103.6.1 Roads 20 to 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on both sides of fire apparatus access roads that are 20 to 26 feet wide (6096 to 7925 mm).

    D103.6.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on one side of fire apparatus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7925 mm) and less than 32 feet wide (9754 mm).

    SECTION D104—COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS

    D104.1 Buildings exceeding three stories or 30 feet in height. Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) or three stories in height shall have not fewer than two means of fire apparatus access for each structure.

    D104.2 Buildings exceeding 62,000 square feet in area. Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of more than 62,000 square feet (5760 m [2] ) shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads. Exception: Projects having a gross building area of up to 124,000 square feet (11 520 m [2] ) that have a single approved fire apparatus access road where all buildings are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems.

    D104.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the lot or area to be served, measured in a straight line between

    accesses.

    SECTION D105—AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

  • CFC § 6.1 High relevance — show source text

    18 ″

    12 ″ 12 ″ 12 ″

    D103.6.1 Roads 20 to 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on both sides of fire apparatus access roads that are 20 to 26 feet wide (6096 to 7925 mm).

    D103.6.2 Roads more than 26 feet in width. Fire lane signs as specified in Section D103.6 shall be posted on one side of fire apparatus access roads more than 26 feet wide (7925 mm) and less than 32 feet wide (9754 mm).

    SECTION D104—COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENTS

    D104.1 Buildings exceeding three stories or 30 feet in height. Buildings or facilities exceeding 30 feet (9144 mm) or three stories in height shall have not fewer than two means of fire apparatus access for each structure.

    D104.2 Buildings exceeding 62,000 square feet in area. Buildings or facilities having a gross building area of more than 62,000 square feet (5760 m [2] ) shall be provided with two separate and approved fire apparatus access roads. Exception: Projects having a gross building area of up to 124,000 square feet (11 520 m [2] ) that have a single approved fire apparatus access road where all buildings are equipped throughout with approved automatic sprinkler systems.

    D104.3 Remoteness. Where two fire apparatus access roads are required, they shall be placed a distance apart equal to not less than one half of the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the lot or area to be served, measured in a straight line between

    accesses.

    SECTION D105—AERIAL FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    D105.1 Where required. Where the vertical distance between the grade plane and the highest roof surface exceeds 30 feet (9144 mm), approved aerial fire apparatus access roads shall be provided. For purposes of this section, the highest roof surface shall be

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    determined by measurement to the eave of a pitched roof, the intersection of the roof to the exterior wall, or the top of parapet walls, whichever is greater.

    Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, buildings of Type IA, Type IB or Type IIA construction equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and having firefighter access through an enclosed stairway with a Class I standpipe from the lowest level of fire department vehicle access to all roof surfaces.

    D105.2 Width. Aerial fire apparatus access roads shall have a minimum unobstructed width of 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders, in the immediate vicinity of the building or portion thereof.

    D105.3 Proximity to building. One or more of the required access routes meeting this condition shall be located not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) and not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm) from the building, and shall be positioned parallel to one entire side of the building. The side of the building on which the aerial fire apparatus access road is positioned shall be approved by the fire code official.

  • CFC § 3.05 High relevance — show source text

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.05(a)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roads)

    (a) Roads. Required access roads from every building to a public street shall be all-weather hard-surfaced (suitable for use by fire apparatus) right-of-way not less than 20 feet in width. Such right-of-way shall be unobstructed and maintained only as access to the public street.

    Exception: The enforcing agency may waive or modify this requirement if in his opinion such all-weather hard-surfaced condition is not necessary in the interest of public safety and welfare.

    503.2.1 Dimensions. Fire apparatus access roads shall have an unobstructed width of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm), exclusive of shoulders, except for approved security gates in accordance with Section 503.6, and an unobstructed vertical clearance of not less than 13 feet 6 inches (4115 mm).

    503.2.2 Authority. The fire code official shall have the authority to require or permit modifications to the required access widths where they are inadequate for fire or rescue operations or where necessary to meet the public safety objectives of the jurisdiction.

    503.2.3 Surface. Fire apparatus access roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and shall be surfaced so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities.

    503.2.4 Turning radius. The required turning radius of a fire apparatus access road shall be determined by the fire code official.

    503.2.5 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) in length shall be provided with an approved area for turning around fire apparatus.

    503.2.6 Bridges and elevated surfaces. Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a fire apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with AASHTO HB-17. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges where required by the fire code official. Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces that are not designed for such use, approved barriers, approved signs or both shall be installed and maintained where required by the fire code official.

    503.2.7 Grade. The grade of the fire apparatus access road shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

    503.2.8 Angles of approach and departure. The angles of approach and departure for fire apparatus access roads shall be within the limits established by the fire code official based on the fire department’s apparatus.

    503.3 Marking. Where required by the fire code official, approved signs or other approved notices or markings that include the words “NO PARKING—FIRE LANE” shall be provided for fire apparatus access roads to identify such roads or prohibit the obstruction thereof. The means by which fire lanes are designated shall be maintained in a clean and legible condition at all times and be replaced or repaired when necessary to provide adequate visibility.

    503.4 Obstruction of fire apparatus access roads. Fire apparatus access roads shall not be obstructed in any manner, including the parking of vehicles. The minimum widths and clearances established in Sections 503.2.1 and 503.2.2 shall be maintained at all times.

    503.4.1 Traffic calming devices. Traffic calming devices shall be prohibited unless approved by the fire code official.

  • CFC § 304.8 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION D102—REQUIRED ACCESS

    D102.1 Access and loading. Facilities, buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed shall be accessible to fire department apparatus by way of an approved fire apparatus access road with an asphalt, concrete or other approved driving surface capable of supporting the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing up to 75,000 pounds (34 050 kg).

    SECTION D103—MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS

    D103.1 Access road width with a hydrant. Where a fire hydrant is located on a fire apparatus access road, the minimum road width shall be 26 feet (7925 mm), exclusive of shoulders (see Figure D103.1).

    FIGURE D103.1—DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD TURNAROUND

    60-FOOT “Y”

    MINIMUM CLEARANCE AROUND A FIRE HYDRANT

    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

    D103.2 Grade. Fire apparatus access roads shall not exceed 10 percent in grade.

    Exception: Grades steeper than 10 percent as approved by the fire code official.

    D103.3 Turning radius. The minimum turning radius shall be determined by the fire code official.

    D103.4 Dead ends. Dead-end fire apparatus access roads in excess of 150 feet (45 720 mm) shall be provided with width and turnaround provisions in accordance with Table D103.4.

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    APPENDIX D—FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    TABLE D103.4—REQUIREMENTS FOR DEAD-END FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS Col2 Col3
    LENGTH
    (feet)    		 WIDTH
    (feet)    		 TURNAROUNDS REQUIRED
    0–150 20 None required
    151–500 20 120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with Figure D103.1
    501–750 26 120-foot Hammerhead, 60-foot “Y” or 96-foot diameter cul-de-sac in accordance with Figure D103.1
    Over 750 Special approval required Special approval required
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

    D103.5 Fire apparatus access road gates. Gates securing the fire apparatus access roads shall comply with all of the following criteria:

    1. Where a single gate is provided, the gate width shall be not less than 20 feet (6096 mm). Where a fire apparatus road consists of a divided roadway, the gate width shall be not less than 12 feet (3658 mm).
    2. Gates shall be of the horizontal swing, horizontal slide, vertical lift or vertical pivot type.
    3. Construction of gates shall be of materials that allow manual operation by one person.
    4. Gate components shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and replaced or repaired when defective.
    5. Electric gates shall be equipped with a means of opening the gate by fire department personnel for emergency access. Emergency opening devices shall be approved by the fire code official.
    6. Methods of locking shall be submitted for approval by the fire code official.
    7. Electric gate operators, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
  • CFC § 3204.2. High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Multiple class high-piled storage areas do not need to be separated where in accordance with Section 3204.2.

    3206.4 Automatic sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in accordance with Sections 3207, 3208 and 3209.

    3206.4.1 Pallets. Automatic sprinkler system requirements based on the presence of pallets shall be in accordance with NFPA 13.

    3206.4.1.1 Plastic pallets. Plastic pallets listed and labeled in accordance with FM 4996 or UL 2335 shall be treated as wood pallets for determining required sprinkler protection.

    3206.5 Fire detection. Where fire detection is required by Table 3206.2, an approved automatic fire detection system shall be installed throughout the high-piled storage area. The system shall be monitored and be in accordance with Section 907.

    3206.6 Building access. Fire apparatus access roads in accordance with Section 503 shall be provided within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all portions of the exterior walls of buildings used for high-piled storage.

    Exception: Where fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of topography, railways, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, the fire code official is authorized to require additional fire protection.

    3206.7 Fire department access doors. Where fire department access doors are required by Table 3206.2, fire department access doors shall be provided in accordance Sections 3206.7.1 through 3206.7.8.

    3206.7.1 Exterior walls without fire department access doors. Fire department access doors are not required in an exterior wall that does not face a fire apparatus access road provided that all of the following conditions occur:

    1. The opposite exterior wall faces a fire apparatus access road.
    2. The opposite exterior wall is provided with fire department access doors.
    3. The entire interior surface of the exterior wall is less than 150 feet (45 720 mm) away from a fire department access door.
    4. The building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

    3206.7.2 Where located. Where exterior walls surrounding high-piled storage areas face fire apparatus access roads, such walls shall be provided with fire department access doors.

    3206.7.3 Access to doors. Fire department access doors shall be able to be accessed without the use of a ladder.

    3206.7.4 Marking on fire department access doors. Fire department access doors shall be labeled on the exterior side with the following sign or other approved sign:

    FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS DOOR

    DO NOT BLOCK

    The lettering shall be in a contrasting color to the background. Letters shall have a minimum height of 2 inches (51 mm) with a minimum stroke of [3] / 8 inch (10 mm).

    3206.7.5 Number of doors required. The required fire department access doors shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent fire department access doors does not exceed 125 feet (38 100 mm) measured center to center.

    Exception: The linear distance between adjacent access doors shall not exceed 200 feet (60 960 mm) in existing buildings where change in occupancy is not proposed.

    3206.7.6 Door size and type. Fire department access doors shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width and 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) in height. Roll-up doors shall not be considered fire department access doors unless approved.

  • CFC § 501.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    501.3.1 Site safety plan. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of an approved written site safety plan in accordance with Section 3303.

    501.4 Timing of installation. Where fire apparatus access roads or a water supply for fire protection are required to be installed, such protection shall be installed and made serviceable prior to and during the time of construction except where approved alternative methods of protection are provided. Temporary street signs shall be installed at each street intersection where construction of new roadways allows passage by vehicles in accordance with Section 505.2.

    SECTION 502—DEFINITIONS

    502.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

    AGENCY.

    FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROAD.

    FIRE COMMAND CENTER.

    FIRE DEPARTMENT MASTER KEY.

    FIRE LANE.

    KEY BOX.

    TRAFFIC CALMING DEVICES.

    SECTION 503—FIRE APPARATUS ACCESS ROADS

    503.1 Where required. Fire apparatus access roads shall be provided and maintained in accordance with Sections 503.1.1 through 503.1.3.

    503.1.1 Buildings and facilities. Approved fire apparatus access roads shall be provided for every facility, building or portion of a building hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction. The fire apparatus access road shall comply with the requirements of this section and shall extend to within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all portions of the facility and all portions of the exterior walls of the first story of the building as measured by an approved route around the exterior of the building or facility.

    Exceptions:

    1. The fire code official is authorized to increase the dimension of 150 feet (45 720 mm) where any of the following conditions occur:

    1.1. The building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3. 1.2. Fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of location on property, topography, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, and an approved alternative means of fire protection is provided. 1.3. There are not more than two Group R-3 or Group U occupancies. 2. Where approved by the fire code official, fire apparatus access roads shall be permitted to be exempted or modified for solar photovoltaic power generation facilities.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 5-3

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

    FIRE SERVICE FEATURES

    503.1.2 Additional access. The fire code official is authorized to require more than one fire apparatus access road based on the potential for impairment of a single road by vehicle congestion, condition of terrain, climatic conditions or other factors that could limit access.

    503.1.3 High-piled storage. Fire department vehicle access to buildings used for high-piled combustible storage shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 32.

    503.2 Specifications. Fire apparatus access roads shall be installed and arranged in accordance with Sections 503.2.1 through 503.2.8.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.05(a)] Fire Department Access and Egress. (Roads)

  • CFC § 3302.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    3302.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following, as applicable:

    1. Name and contact information of site safety director.

    2. Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.

    3. Procedures for reporting emergencies.

    4. Fire department vehicle access routes.

    5. Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.

    6. Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved, and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code.

    7. Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.

    8. Hot-work permit plan.

    9. Plans for control of combustible waste material.

    10. Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.

    11. Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.

    12. Changes that affect this plan.

    13. Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 33-3

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

    SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION

    3302.2 Site safety director. The owner shall designate a person to be the site safety director. The site safety director shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan. The site safety director shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard service is provided in accordance with the California Fire Code, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.

    3302.3 Daily fire safety inspection. The site safety director shall be responsible for the completion of a daily fire safety inspection at the project site. Each day, all building and outdoor areas shall be inspected to ensure compliance with the inspection list in this section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available for on-site inspection and review.

    1. Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.

    2. Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

    3. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.

    4. Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.

    5. Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.

    6. Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

    7. Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.

    8. The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.

    9. Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 3311.

    10. Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 3309 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    11. Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.

  • California Fire Code High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX CC FIRE HYDRANT LOCATIONS AND

    DISTRIBUTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX CC-3

    CC101 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX CC-3

    CC102 Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX CC-3

    CC103 Number of Fire Hydrants . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX CC-3 CC104 Consideration of Existing Fire Hydrants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX CC-3 CC105 Distribution of Fire Hydrants. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX CC-3

    APPENDIX D FIRE APPARATUS

    ACCESS ROADS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX D-3

    D101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-3

    D102 Required Access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-3 D103 Minimum Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-3 D104 Commercial and Industrial Developments . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-4 D105 Aerial Fire Apparatus Access Roads . . . .APPENDIX D-4 D106 Multiple-Family Residential Developments. . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-5 D107 One- or Two-Family Residential Developments. . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-5 D108 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX D-5

    APPENDIX E HAZARD CATEGORIES . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX E-3

    E101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX E-3

    E102 Hazard Categories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX E-3 E103 Evaluation of Hazards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX E-7

    E104 GHS Hazardous Materials Definitions . . . APPENDIX E-8

    E105 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX E-20

    APPENDIX F HAZARD RANKING . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX F-3

    F101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX F-3

  • CFC § 102.7 High relevance — show source text

    Chapters 68 through 79 Reserved for future use.

    PART VI—REFERENCED STANDARDS

    Chapter 80 Referenced Standards

    Chapter 80 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 67 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.7, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.

    PART VII—APPENDICES

    Appendix Chapter 4 Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy

    Appendix Chapter 4 provides detailed criteria for special uses and occupancies. The unique characteristics of a live/work unit as opposed to a 30-story high-rise building call for specific standards for each. Twenty-seven sections address covered and open mall buildings, atri- ums, hospitals, stages, buildings where hazardous materials are used and stored, jails and prisons, ambulatory care facilities and storm shelters, among other special occupancy issues.

    Appendix A Board of Appeals

    Appendix A contains the provisions for appeal and the establishment of a board of appeals. The provisions include the application for an appeal, the makeup of the board of appeals and the conduct of the appeal process.

    Appendix B Fire-Flow Requirements for Buildings

    Appendix B provides a tool for the use of jurisdictions in establishing a policy for determining fire-flow requirements in accordance with Section 507.3. The primary tool used in this appendix is a table that presents fire flow based on construction type and building area based on the correlation of the Insurance Services Office (ISO) method and the construction types used in the CBC.

    Appendix BB Fire-flow Requirements for Buildings

    The procedures determining fire-flow requirements for any school buildings or portions of buildings hereafter constructed for which review and approval is required under Subdivision(a) of Section 17280 of the Government Code shall be in accordance with this appendix as amended by the state fire marshal.

    Appendix C Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution

    Appendix C focuses on the location and spacing of fire hydrants, which is important to the success of firefighting operations. This particular appendix gives one methodology based on the required fire flow that fire departments can work with to set a policy for hydrant distribution around new buildings and facilities in conjunction with Section 507.5.

    Appendix CC Fire Hydrant Locations and Distribution

    Fire hydrants shall be provided in accordance with this appendix for the protection of any school buildings, or portions thereof, hereafter constructed for which review and approval are required under Subdivision(a) of Section 17280 of the Government Code.

    Appendix D Fire Apparatus Access Roads

    Appendix D contains more detailed elements for use with the basic access requirements found in Section 503. This appendix, like Appendices B and C, is a tool for jurisdictions looking for guidance in establishing access requirements and includes criteria for multiple-family residential developments, large one- and two-family subdivisions, specific examples for various types of turnarounds for fire department apparatus and parking regulatory signage.

    Appendix E Hazard Categories

    Appendix E contains guidance in the classifying of hazardous materials so that proposed designs can be evaluated intelligently and accurately. The descriptive materials and explanations of hazardous materials and how to report and evaluate them on a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) are intended to be instructional as well as informative.

    Appendix F Hazard Ranking

Frequently asked questions

When does § 503.2.6 apply to an access road?

§ 503.2.6 applies when a bridge or elevated surface is part of the fire apparatus access road — that element must be designed and maintained to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus and meet the AASHTO HB‑17 requirement.

If a hydrant is on the road, can I use the 20‑ft minimum width?

No. Where a hydrant is located on the access road Appendix D requires 26 ft minimum unobstructed width (exclusive of shoulders) — see § D103.1.

Who can approve steeper grades or alternative dimensions?

The fire code official has authority to approve grades steeper than 10%, modifications to widths, or other alternatives where justified. § D103.2 and § 503.2.2 describe authority and exceptions.

Are Appendix D turnarounds mandatory?

Appendix D is advisory unless adopted by the jurisdiction. If adopted (or referenced by the enforcing ordinance) the turnaround types and bands in Table D103.4 are the required solutions for dead‑end lengths.

What must I do when the access road includes a narrow historic bridge?

Design the bridge per AASHTO HB‑17 for the imposed fire apparatus loads or provide an approved alternative (and post vehicle load limits and provide barriers/signs as required by the fire code official) under § 503.2.6.

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Related in the CFC

When do Appendices A–Q apply and who must adopt them?

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Adoptable Appendices (A–Q) — When and how to use them

California Fire Code