CFC · California Fire Code
What does Appendix K require for existing ambulatory care facilities?
Appendix K (optional unless adopted locally) sets retrofit safety rules for existing ambulatory care spaces: it requires smoke barriers and refuge areas for large clinics, sprinklers/alarms when multiple patients can’t self‑evacuate, wider corridors for gurney use, and elevator emergency operation when travel is 25 ft or more; Appendix K defers detailed construction and elevator work to the California Building Code and the Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Appendix K establishes minimum fire- and life-safety retrofit requirements for existing buildings that contain ambulatory care facilities. Key controls include means-of-egress and equipment provisions such as the elevator requirements in § K104.3 and the list of referenced standards in § K105.1; the appendix is optional unless adopted by the jurisdiction (see § K101.1) .
The single most important rule: Appendix K sets targeted, retroactive safety measures (smoke barriers, refuge areas, sprinklers/alarms, wider corridors and elevator emergency operation) for ambulatory care spaces — but it only applies where the local adopting authority has chosen to adopt it.
Requirements in detail
Scope and applicability
- Appendix K applies to existing buildings containing ambulatory care facilities in addition to Chapter 11 requirements; where conflicts exist, the most restrictive rule controls (§ K101.1) .
- The appendix is elective for jurisdictions unless the adopting ordinance makes it mandatory (§ K101.1) .
Life‑safety systems and separations (decision‑relevant values)
| Decision dimension | Required value or threshold | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| When to require a fire partition separation | If four or more care recipients can be incapable of self‑preservation at any time | § K102.1 |
| When to require smoke barriers | Aggregate ambulatory care area on one story > 10,000 sq ft → provide smoke barrier(s) | § K102.2 |
| Maximum area per smoke compartment | Not greater than 22,500 sq ft | § K102.2 |
| Maximum travel to a smoke‑barrier door | 200 ft | § K102.2 |
| Refuge area per nonambulatory care recipient | Not less than 30 net sq ft per nonambulatory care recipient | § K102.2.1 |
| Corridor width where gurney traffic is served | Minimum 72 in (1829 mm) | § K104.2 |
| When sprinklers required (Types IIB, IIIB, VB) | If 4+ care recipients are incapable of self‑preservation OR any incapable care recipient is located off the level of exit discharge | § K102.3.1 / K102.3.2 |
| Automatic fire alarm / smoke detection | Electronically supervised smoke detection inside ambulatory care facility and in public use areas; sprinklered buildings may use alternative notification per exception | § K102.4 |
| Existing elevator emergency operation threshold | Elevators with travel 25 ft (7620 mm) or more above or below the main floor and intended for firefighting/rescue must be provided with emergency operation | § K104.3.2 |
| Referenced standards | See Table K105.1 (e.g., California Building Code; ASME A17.3 / Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders) | § K105.1 and Table K105.1 |
Notes on construction details:
- Smoke barriers must be built per CBC Sections 422 and 709, continuous from outside wall to outside wall (with limited exceptions) and meet opening protectives and penetration requirements specified in the CBC; opening protectives require a minimum of 1/3‑hour fire protection rating unless otherwise excepted (e.g., existing wired‑glass vision panels) §§ K102.2, K102.2.3–K102.2.6 .
- Waste/linen chutes, incidental high‑risk spaces, chute intakes/discharges and their separations/ratings are specified in K102.5 and K103 (see Table K103.1) and often require 1‑hour (or greater) separations or sprinklers depending on the use .
Elevators, escalators and related equipment
- Existing elevators/escalators/dumbwaiters and moving walks in ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by CBC §422 must comply with the California Elevator Safety Orders (ASME A17.3—Title 8) per § K104.3.1 .
- If an elevator has travel ≥ 25 ft, and is intended for emergency personnel, it must have emergency operation (recall, firefighter’s service) in accordance with the Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders (§ K104.3.2) .
Referenced standards
- Appendix K explicitly points users to outside standards in § K105.1 and Table K105.1; the California Building Code (CBC) and the California Elevator Safety Orders (ASME A17.3 / Title 8) are called out for many detailed design/installation rules (§ K105.1 and Table K105.1) .
Exceptions & special cases
- Appendix K is not automatically mandatory statewide; it only applies where the adopting jurisdiction references it (§ K101.1) .
- Existing openings and materials: approved existing materials and methods of construction may be permitted to remain for certain penetrations and joints in smoke barriers (exceptions in K102.2.4 and K102.2.5) .
- Duct and air‑transfer openings without smoke dampers that already exist are permitted to remain; changes to dampers require review per CBC Section 717 (§ K102.2.6 exception) .
- Automatic smoke detection requirement has an exception where an approved sprinkler system exists and occupant notification appliances activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow (§ K102.4 exception) .
- Smoke barriers may terminate at atrium enclosures when permitted by CBC §404.6 (§ K102.2 exception) .
Common mistakes
- Treating Appendix K as automatically applicable — many assume it’s mandatory; in fact it’s optional unless adopted locally (§ K101.1) .
- Missing the “4 care‑recipient” threshold: several sprinkler, separation and partition triggers hinge on whether four or more care recipients can be incapable of self‑preservation (§ K102.1 / K102.3.1 / K102.3.2) .
- Confusing smoke barrier and fire‑resistance ratings: smoke barriers follow CBC 422/709 requirements and have specific provisions for openings and penetrations; do not substitute general partitions without consulting the referenced CBC sections (§ K102.2 and § K105.1) .
- Forgetting corridor width where gurney traffic is expected — minimum 72 in is required where patients are incapable of self‑preservation (§ K104.2) .
- Overlooking referenced standards: elevator requirements defer to Title 8 elevator safety rules; simply citing Appendix K without following the elevator standard is incomplete (§ K104.3.1 / § K105.1) .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: Single‑story ambulatory care clinic, aggregate area 12,000 sq ft on that story, houses 6 care recipients who at times are incapable of self‑preservation, has one elevator with 28 ft travel to a mechanical mezzanine, and has corridors that currently measure 60 in.
How Appendix K applies:
- Because the ambulatory area on one story is > 10,000 sq ft, the story must be subdivided with smoke barriers into not fewer than two smoke compartments and each compartment cannot exceed 22,500 sq ft; travel to a smoke‑barrier door must be ≤ 200 ft (§ K102.2) .
- There are 6 nonambulatory care recipients; you must provide refuge area of 30 net sq ft × 6 = 180 net sq ft within the smoke compartment, accessible without passing through adjacent tenant spaces (§ K102.2.1) .
- Because 4 or more care recipients can be incapable of self‑preservation, an automatic sprinkler system is required throughout the entire floor when in Type IIB/IIIB/VB construction (and for high‑rise conditions per § K102.3) — check building construction type to confirm (§ K102.3.1/K102.3.2) .
- The elevator has 28 ft travel (≥ 25 ft), and if it is intended to serve emergency personnel for firefighting/rescue, Appendix K requires emergency operation per the California Elevator Safety Orders (§ K104.3.2), so the elevator must be evaluated/modified accordingly and documentation/references to Title 8 applied (§ K104.3.1 / § K105.1) .
- Corridors currently 60 in — where gurney traffic is required (because patients may be incapable of self‑preservation), corridor width must be increased to 72 in to comply with § K104.2 .
Related provisions
- § K101.1 — Scope; appendix applicability and interplay with Chapter 11 (adoption note) .
- § K102.1 — Separation (fire partitions when 4+ incapable care recipients) .
- § K102.2 – K102.2.7 — Smoke compartments, refuge areas, openings, penetrations, duct exceptions, independent egress rules .
- § K102.3 – K102.4 — Automatic sprinkler and automatic fire‑alarm / smoke detection requirements and exceptions .
- § K102.5 — Waste and linen chute construction and protection requirements .
- § K103.1 – K103.4 and Table K103.1 — Incidental uses, separations and area limits for higher‑risk rooms within ambulatory care facilities .
- § K104.2 — Corridor and aisle width (72 in where gurney traffic occurs) .
- § K104.3 / K104.3.1 / K104.3.2 — Existing elevators, compliance with California Elevator Safety Orders, elevator emergency operation threshold (25 ft) .
- § K105.1 and Table K105.1 — Referenced standards (CBC, ASME A17.3/Title 8 Elevator Safety Orders, etc.) — consult these for detailed technical requirements and enforcement references .
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
California Fire Code High relevance — show source text
G101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX G-3
APPENDIX H HAZARDOUS MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
PLANS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INVENTORY
STATEMENTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-3
H1 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-3 H2 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statements (HMIS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-3
H3 Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-3
H4 Maintenance of Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-4
APPENDIX I FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS—
NONCOMPLIANT CONDITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX I-3
I101 Noncompliant Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX I-3
I102 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX I-5
APPENDIX J BUILDING INFORMATION SIGN . . APPENDIX J-3
J101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX J-3
J102 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX J-5
APPENDIX K CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES . . .APPENDIX K-3
K101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-3
K102 Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-3 K103 Incidental Uses in Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-4
K104 Means of Egress Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-5 K105 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-6
APPENDIX L REQUIREMENTS FOR FIREFIGHTER
AIR REPLENISHMENT SYSTEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX L-3
L101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-3
L102 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-3
California Fire Code High relevance — show source text
J101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX J-3
J102 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX J-5
APPENDIX K CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES . . .APPENDIX K-3
K101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-3
K102 Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-3 K103 Incidental Uses in Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-4
K104 Means of Egress Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-5 K105 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX K-6
APPENDIX L REQUIREMENTS FOR FIREFIGHTER
AIR REPLENISHMENT SYSTEMS. . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX L-3
L101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-3
L102 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-3
L103 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-3
L104 Design and Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-3
L105 Acceptance Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-5 L106 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance . . .APPENDIX L-5
L107 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX L-5
APPENDIX M HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS—RETROACTIVE
AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER REQUIREMENT . . . APPENDIX M-3
M101 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX M-3 M102 Where Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX M-3 M103 Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX M-3
APPENDIX N INDOOR TRADE SHOWS AND
EXHIBITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX N-3
N101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX N-3
CFC § K101 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX K-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
K CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING
AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
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 K was created with the intent to provide jurisdictions with an option for assessing minimum fire and life safety requirements for buildings containing ambulatory care facilities. While this appendix is written with the intent to apply retroactive minimum standards, it is recognized that the ambulatory care requirements are relatively recent additions to the California Building Code . For that reason, these requirements are presented as an appendix so that the adopting authority can exercise judgment in the adoption and application of this section. This appendix would also be useful for those local and state jurisdictions that are specifically focused on ensuring the safety of existing ambulatory care facilities by providing minimum criteria that could be used to bring older facilities into compliance with the current standards at the discretion of the adopting jurisdiction. The technical requirements are based on the current California Building Code language, which is consistent with the overall concept of the current federal requirements.
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 K101—GENERAL
K101.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings containing ambulatory care facilities in addition to the requirements of Chapter 11. Where the provisions of this chapter conflict with either the construction requirements in Chapter 11 or the construction requirements that applied at the time of construction, the most restrictive provision shall apply.
K101.2 Intent. The intent of this appendix is to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying and existing buildings containing ambulatory care facilities where such buildings do not comply with the minimum requirements of the California Building Code .
SECTION K102—FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K102.1 Separation. Ambulatory care facilities where the potential exists for four or more care recipients to be incapable of self-preservation at any time, whether rendered incapable by staff or staff has accepted responsibility for a care recipient already incapable, shall be separated from adjacent spaces, corridors or tenants with a fire partition installed in accordance with Section 708 of the Cali- fornia Building Code .
K102.2 Smoke compartments. Where the aggregate area of one or more ambulatory care facilities is greater than 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ) on one story, the story shall be provided with a smoke barrier to subdivide the story into not fewer than two smoke compartments. The area of any one such smoke compartment shall be not greater than 22,500 square feet (2092 m [2] ).
CFC § 2.6 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Approved existing materials and methods of construction.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX K-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K—CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K102.2.6 Duct and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a smoke barrier by duct and air-transfer openings shall comply with Section 717 of the California Building Code .
Exception: Where existing duct and air-transfer openings in smoke barriers exist without smoke dampers, they shall be permitted to remain. Any changes to existing smoke dampers shall be submitted for review and approved in accordance with Section 717 of the California Building Code .
K102.2.7 Independent egress. A means of egress shall be provided from each smoke compartment created by smoke barriers without having to return through the smoke compartment from which means of egress originated.
K102.3 Automatic sprinkler system. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in ambulatory care facilities where required by Sections K102.3.1 and K102.3.2.
K102.3.1 Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the entire floor containing an ambulatory care facility in Type IIB, IIIB and VB construction where either of the following conditions exist at any time:
- Four or more care recipients are rendered incapable of self-preservation.
- One or more care recipients that are rendered incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such a facility.
In buildings where ambulatory care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor where such care is provided, all floors below and all floors between the level of ambulatory care and the nearest level of exit discharge, including the level of exit discharge.
K102.3.2 High-rise buildings. In high-rise buildings containing ambulatory care facilities, an automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the entire floor containing an ambulatory care facility where either of the following conditions exist at any time:
- Four or more care recipients are rendered incapable of self-preservation.
- One or more care recipients that are rendered incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such a facility.
In buildings where ambulatory care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor where such care is provided, all floors below and all floors between the level of ambulatory care and the nearest level of exit discharge, including the level of exit discharge.
K102.4 Automatic fire alarm system. Fire areas containing ambulatory care facilities shall be provided with an electronically supervised automatic smoke detection system installed within the ambulatory care facility and in public use areas outside of tenant spaces, including public corridors and elevator lobbies.
Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, provided that the occupant notification appliances will activate throughout the notification zones upon sprinkler waterflow.
K102.5 Waste and linen chutes. In ambulatory care facilities, existing waste and linen chutes shall comply with Sections K102.5.1 through K102.5.5.
CWUIC § 202 High relevance — show source text
Appendix J Building Information Sign
Appendix J provides design, installation and maintenance requirements for a Building Information Sign (BIS), a fire service tool to be utilized in the crucial, initial response of firefighters to a structure fire. The BIS placard, which is in the shape of a fire service Maltese Cross, is designed to be utilized within the initial response time frame of an incident to assist firefighters in their tactical assessment of the construction type and hourly rating, fire protection systems, occupancy type, content hazards and special features that could affect tactical decisions and operations.
Appendix K Construction Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities
Appendix K was created by the ICC Ad Hoc Committee on Healthcare (AHC) and is intended to provide jurisdictions with an option for assessing minimum fire and life safety requirements for buildings containing ambulatory care facilities. These requirements are presented as an appendix so that the adopting authority can exercise judgment in the adoption and application of this section since the ambulatory care facility requirements are fairly new to the codes. The technical requirements are based on the CBC language, which is consistent with the overall concept of the current federal requirements.
Appendix L Requirements for Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems
Appendix L provides for the design, installation and maintenance of permanently installed firefighter breathing air systems in buildings designated by the jurisdiction. The system has been called a “standpipe for air” and consists of stainless steel, high-pressure piping that is supplied by on-site air storage or fire department air supply units. Air-filling stations are then located throughout the building, allowing firefighters to refill breathing air cylinders inside the fire building.
Appendix M High-Rise Buildings—Retroactive Automatic Sprinkler Requirement
Appendix M was created with the intent to provide an option for adoption by jurisdictions that choose to require existing high-rise buildings to be retrofitted with automatic sprinklers.
Appendix N Indoor Trade Shows and Exhibitions
Appendix N was created to address the hazards associated with larger, more complex trade shows and exhibitions. Although many of these requirements are already included in various locations in this code, some of the more important items, such as requirements for covered booths and multiple-story booths, are not. The intent is to have the requirements covering these events in a single location. This assists those organizing exhibitions and individual exhibitors unfamiliar with the fire code.
Appendix O Valet Trash and Recycling Collection in Group R-2 Occupancies
Appendix O provides requirements to facilitate the enforcement of safety requirements for valet trash and recycling collection services in Group R-2 occupancies. These collection services are formally defined in Section 202 as “ Valet Trash Collection,” which includes recycling. Occupants receiving this service place trash and recyclables in the corridor outside of their residence for pickup by a collection service on a regularly scheduled basis in accordance with restrictions, as prescribed by this appendix.
Appendix P Temporary Haunted Houses, Ghost Walks and Similar Amusement Uses
These regulations shall apply to temporary haunted houses, ghost walks or similar amusement uses, where decorative materials and confusing sounds and/or visual effects are present and shall be in accordance with this appendix.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE xxi
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
Appendix Q Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework
Appendix Q is meant to be a tool to enable communities to collect, assemble and represent the associated risks within the Wildland- _Urban Interface (WUI) fire area.
CFC § 407.5 High relevance — show source text
Appendix F Hazard Ranking
The information in Appendix F is intended to be a companion to the specific requirements of Chapters 51 through 67, which regulate the storage, handling and use of all hazardous materials classified as either physical or health hazards. This appendix lists the various hazardous materials categories that are defined in this code, along with the NFPA 704 hazard ranking for each.
xx 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
Appendix G Cryogenic Fluids—Weight and Volume Equivalents
Appendix G gives the fire code official and design professional a ready reference tool for the conversion of the liquid weight and volume of cryogenic fluid to their corresponding volume of gas and vice versa and is a companion to the provisions of Chapter 55 of this code. Note that this appendix is for information purposes and is not intended for adoption.
Appendix H Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) Instructions
Appendix H is intended to assist businesses in establishing a Hazardous Materials Management Plan (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement (HMIS) based on the classification and quantities of materials that would be found on-site, in storage or in use. The sample forms and available Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provide the basis for the evaluations. It is also a companion to CFC Sections 407.5 and 407.6, which provide the requirement that the HMIS and HMMP be submitted when required by the fire code official.
Appendix I Fire Protection Systems—Noncompliant Conditions
The purpose of Appendix I, which was developed by the ICC Hazard Abatement in Existing Buildings Committee, is to provide the fire code official with a list of conditions that are readily identifiable by the inspector during the course of an inspection utilizing the CFC. The specific conditions identified in this appendix are primarily derived from applicable NFPA standards and pose a hazard to the proper operation of the respective systems.
Appendix J Building Information Sign
Appendix J provides design, installation and maintenance requirements for a Building Information Sign (BIS), a fire service tool to be utilized in the crucial, initial response of firefighters to a structure fire. The BIS placard, which is in the shape of a fire service Maltese Cross, is designed to be utilized within the initial response time frame of an incident to assist firefighters in their tactical assessment of the construction type and hourly rating, fire protection systems, occupancy type, content hazards and special features that could affect tactical decisions and operations.
Appendix K Construction Requirements for Existing Ambulatory Care Facilities
Appendix K was created by the ICC Ad Hoc Committee on Healthcare (AHC) and is intended to provide jurisdictions with an option for assessing minimum fire and life safety requirements for buildings containing ambulatory care facilities. These requirements are presented as an appendix so that the adopting authority can exercise judgment in the adoption and application of this section since the ambulatory care facility requirements are fairly new to the codes. The technical requirements are based on the CBC language, which is consistent with the overall concept of the current federal requirements.
Appendix L Requirements for Firefighter Air Replenishment Systems
Appendix L provides for the design, installation and maintenance of permanently installed firefighter breathing air systems in buildings designated by the jurisdiction. The system has been called a “standpipe for air” and consists of stainless steel, high-pressure piping that is supplied by on-site air storage or fire department air supply units. Air-filling stations are then located throughout the building, allowing firefighters to refill breathing air cylinders inside the fire building.
CFC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
The smoke barrier shall be installed in accordance with Section 709 of the California Building Code with the exception that smoke barriers shall be continuous from an outside wall to an outside wall, a floor to a floor, or from a smoke barrier to a smoke barrier or a combination thereof.
K102.2.1 Refuge area. Not less than 30 net square feet (2.8 m [2] ) for each nonambulatory care recipient shall be provided within the aggregate area of corridors, care recipient rooms, treatment rooms, lounge or dining areas and other low-hazard areas within each smoke compartment. Each occupant of an ambulatory care facility shall be provided with access to a refuge area without passing through or utilizing adjacent tenant spaces.
K102.2.2 Smoke barriers. Smoke barriers shall be constructed in accordance with Sections 422 and 709 of the California Building Code .
Exceptions:
- Smoke barriers shall be permitted to terminate at an atrium enclosure in accordance with Section 404.6 of the Califor- nia Building Code .
- Smoke barriers shall be continuous from an outside wall to an outside wall, a floor to a floor, a smoke barrier to a smoke barrier or a combination thereof.
K102.2.3 Opening protectives. Openings in smoke barriers shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code . Opening protectives shall have a minimum fire protection rating of [1] / 3 hour.
Exception: Existing wired glass vision panels in doors shall be permitted to remain.
K102.2.4 Penetrations. Penetrations of smoke barriers shall comply with the California Building Code .
Exception: Approved existing materials and methods of construction.
K102.2.5 Joints. Joints made in or between smoke barriers shall comply with the California Building Code .
Exception: Approved existing materials and methods of construction.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX K-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K—CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K102.2.6 Duct and air transfer openings. Penetrations in a smoke barrier by duct and air-transfer openings shall comply with Section 717 of the California Building Code .
Exception: Where existing duct and air-transfer openings in smoke barriers exist without smoke dampers, they shall be permitted to remain. Any changes to existing smoke dampers shall be submitted for review and approved in accordance with Section 717 of the California Building Code .
K102.2.7 Independent egress. A means of egress shall be provided from each smoke compartment created by smoke barriers without having to return through the smoke compartment from which means of egress originated.
K102.3 Automatic sprinkler system. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in ambulatory care facilities where required by Sections K102.3.1 and K102.3.2.
K102.3.1 Types IIB, IIIB and VB construction. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout the entire floor containing an ambulatory care facility in Type IIB, IIIB and VB construction where either of the following conditions exist at any time:
- Four or more care recipients are rendered incapable of self-preservation.
- One or more care recipients that are rendered incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such a facility.
CFC § 5.1 High relevance — show source text
K102.5 Waste and linen chutes. In ambulatory care facilities, existing waste and linen chutes shall comply with Sections K102.5.1 through K102.5.5.
K102.5.1 Enclosures. Chutes shall be enclosed with 1- hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Opening protectives shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
K102.5.2 Chute intakes. Chute intakes shall comply with Section K102.5.2.1 or K102.5.2.2.
K102.5.2.1 Chute intake direct from corridor. Where intake to chutes is direct from a corridor, the intake opening shall be equipped with a chute-intake door in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
K102.5.2.2 Chute intake via a chute-intake room. Where the intake to chutes is accessed through a chute-intake room, the room shall be enclosed with 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Opening protectives for the intake room shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. Opening protectives for the chute enclosure shall be in accordance with Section K102.5.1.
K102.5.3 Automatic sprinkler system. Chutes shall be equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.11.2.
K102.5.4 Chute discharge rooms. Chutes shall terminate in a dedicated chute discharge room. Such rooms shall be separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction. Opening protectives shall be in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
K102.5.5 Chute discharge protection. Chute discharges shall be equipped with a self-closing or automatic-closing opening protective in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
SECTION K103—INCIDENTAL USES IN EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K103.1 General. Incidental uses associated with and located within existing ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by Section 422 in the California Building Code, and that generally pose a greater level of risk to such occupancies, shall comply with the
APPENDIX K-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K—CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
provisions of Sections K103.2 through K103.4.2.1. Incidental uses in ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by Section 422 of the California Building Code are limited to those listed in Table K103.1.
TABLE K103.1—INCIDENTAL USES IN EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES Col2 ROOM OR AREA SEPARATION AND/OR PROTECTION Furnace room where any piece of equipment is over 400, CFC § 5.5 High relevance — show source text
K102.5.5 Chute discharge protection. Chute discharges shall be equipped with a self-closing or automatic-closing opening protective in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code and have a fire protection rating of not less than 1 hour.
SECTION K103—INCIDENTAL USES IN EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K103.1 General. Incidental uses associated with and located within existing ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by Section 422 in the California Building Code, and that generally pose a greater level of risk to such occupancies, shall comply with the
APPENDIX K-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K—CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
provisions of Sections K103.2 through K103.4.2.1. Incidental uses in ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by Section 422 of the California Building Code are limited to those listed in Table K103.1.
TABLE K103.1—INCIDENTAL USES IN EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES Col2 ROOM OR AREA SEPARATION AND/OR PROTECTION Furnace room where any piece of equipment is over 400,000 Btu per hour input 1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Rooms with boilers where the largest piece of equipment is over 15 psi and 10 horsepower 1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Refrigerant machinery room 1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Hydrogen fuel gas rooms, not classified as Group H 1 hour in ambulatory care facilities Incinerator rooms 2 hours and provide automatic sprinkler system Laboratories not classified as Group H 1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Laundry rooms over 100 square feet 1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Waste and linen collection rooms with containers with total volume of 10 cubic feet or
greater1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Storage rooms greater than 100 square feet 1 hour or provide automatic sprinkler system Stationary storage battery systems having a liquid electrolyte capacity of more than 50
gallons for flooded lead-acid, nickel cadmium or VRLA, or more than 1,000 pounds for lith-
ium-ion and lithium metal polymer used for facility standby power, emergency power or
uninterruptible power supplies1 hour in ambulatory care facilities For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square inch (psi) = 6.9 kPa, 1 British thermal unit (Btu) per hour = 0.293 watts, 1 horsepower = 746 watts, 1 gallon = 3.785 L. For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square inch (psi) = 6.9 kPa, 1 British thermal unit (Btu) per hour = 0.293 watts, 1 horsepower = 746 watts, 1 gallon = 3.785 L. K103.2 Occupancy classification. Incidental uses shall not be individually classified in accordance with Section 302.1 of the Califor- nia Building Code . Incidental uses shall be included in the building occupancies in which they are located.
CFC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
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 K101—GENERAL
K101.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings containing ambulatory care facilities in addition to the requirements of Chapter 11. Where the provisions of this chapter conflict with either the construction requirements in Chapter 11 or the construction requirements that applied at the time of construction, the most restrictive provision shall apply.
K101.2 Intent. The intent of this appendix is to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying and existing buildings containing ambulatory care facilities where such buildings do not comply with the minimum requirements of the California Building Code .
SECTION K102—FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K102.1 Separation. Ambulatory care facilities where the potential exists for four or more care recipients to be incapable of self-preservation at any time, whether rendered incapable by staff or staff has accepted responsibility for a care recipient already incapable, shall be separated from adjacent spaces, corridors or tenants with a fire partition installed in accordance with Section 708 of the Cali- fornia Building Code .
K102.2 Smoke compartments. Where the aggregate area of one or more ambulatory care facilities is greater than 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ) on one story, the story shall be provided with a smoke barrier to subdivide the story into not fewer than two smoke compartments. The area of any one such smoke compartment shall be not greater than 22,500 square feet (2092 m [2] ). The travel distance from any point in a smoke compartment to a smoke barrier door shall be not greater than 200 feet (60 960 mm). The smoke barrier shall be installed in accordance with Section 709 of the California Building Code with the exception that smoke barriers shall be continuous from an outside wall to an outside wall, a floor to a floor, or from a smoke barrier to a smoke barrier or a combination thereof.
K102.2.1 Refuge area. Not less than 30 net square feet (2.8 m [2] ) for each nonambulatory care recipient shall be provided within the aggregate area of corridors, care recipient rooms, treatment rooms, lounge or dining areas and other low-hazard areas within each smoke compartment. Each occupant of an ambulatory care facility shall be provided with access to a refuge area without passing through or utilizing adjacent tenant spaces.
K102.2.2 Smoke barriers. Smoke barriers shall be constructed in accordance with Sections 422 and 709 of the California Building Code .
Exceptions:
- Smoke barriers shall be permitted to terminate at an atrium enclosure in accordance with Section 404.6 of the Califor- nia Building Code .
- Smoke barriers shall be continuous from an outside wall to an outside wall, a floor to a floor, a smoke barrier to a smoke barrier or a combination thereof.
K102.2.3 Opening protectives. Openings in smoke barriers shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code . Opening protectives shall have a minimum fire protection rating of [1] / 3 hour.
Exception: Existing wired glass vision panels in doors shall be permitted to remain.
K102.2.4 Penetrations. Penetrations of smoke barriers shall comply with the California Building Code .
Exception: Approved existing materials and methods of construction.
CFC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX K-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K—CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K104.3 Existing elevators. Existing elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters and moving walks shall comply with the requirements of Sections K104.3.1 and K104.3.2.
K104.3.1 Elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters and moving walks. Existing elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters and moving walks in ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by Section 422 of the California Building Code shall comply with Cali- fornia Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.
K104.3.2 Elevator emergency operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the main floor or other level of a building and intended to serve the needs of emergency personnel for firefighting or rescue purposes shall be provided with emergency operation in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.
SECTION K105—REFERENCED STANDARDS
K105.1 General. See Table K105.1 for standards that are referenced in various sections of this appendix. Standards are listed by the standard identification with the effective date, standard title, and the section or sections of this appendix that reference the standard.
TABLE K105.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3 STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTIONS HEREIN REFERENCED CBC—25 California Building Code K101.2, K102.1, K102.2, K102.2.2, K102.2.3,
K102.2.4, K102.2.5, K102.2.6, K102.5.1,
K102.5.2.1, K102.5.2.2, K102.5.4, K102.5.5,
K103.1, K103.2, K103.4.1, K103.4.2, K104.3.1ASME A17.3—2023 California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1,
Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety OrdersK104.3.1, K104.3.2 APPENDIX K-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX L – REQUIREMENTS FOR FIREFIGHTER AIR REPLENISHMENT SYSTEMS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
(Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)
CFC § 0.93 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) in area shall not be limited by the minimum clear opening width.
- The width of door leaves in revolving doors that comply with Section 1010.3.1 shall not be limited.
- The maximum width of door leaves in revolving doors that comply with Section 1010.3.2 shall not be limited.
- Exit access doors serving a room not larger than 70 square feet (6.5 m [2] ) shall have a door leaf width of not less than 24 inches (610 mm).
- Door closers and door stops shall be permitted to be 78 inches (1980 mm) minimum above the floor.
K104.2 Corridor and aisle width. Corridor width shall be as determined in Section 1005.1 and this section. The minimum width of corridors and aisles that serve gurney traffic in areas where patients receive care that causes them to be incapable of self-preservation shall be not less than 72 inches (1829 mm).
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX K-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX K—CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING AMBULATORY CARE FACILITIES
K104.3 Existing elevators. Existing elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters and moving walks shall comply with the requirements of Sections K104.3.1 and K104.3.2.
K104.3.1 Elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters and moving walks. Existing elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters and moving walks in ambulatory care facilities required to be separated by Section 422 of the California Building Code shall comply with Cali- fornia Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.
K104.3.2 Elevator emergency operation. Existing elevators with a travel distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above or below the main floor or other level of a building and intended to serve the needs of emergency personnel for firefighting or rescue purposes shall be provided with emergency operation in accordance with California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6, Elevator Safety Orders.
SECTION K105—REFERENCED STANDARDS
K105.1 General. See Table K105.1 for standards that are referenced in various sections of this appendix. Standards are listed by the standard identification with the effective date, standard title, and the section or sections of this appendix that reference the standard.
Frequently asked questions
Does Appendix K automatically apply to my clinic?
No — Appendix K is an optional appendix. It only applies where the local jurisdiction adopts it (see § K101.1) .
When does an ambulatory care area need a smoke barrier?
If the aggregate ambulatory care area on a single story is greater than 10,000 sq ft, the story must be subdivided with smoke barriers into at least two compartments; each compartment is limited to 22,500 sq ft and travel to a smoke‑barrier door must be ≤ 200 ft (§ K102.2) .
Are existing duct openings without smoke dampers required to be corrected?
Not immediately — Appendix K permits existing duct/air‑transfer openings without smoke dampers to remain, but any changes to existing smoke dampers must be submitted and approved per CBC Section 717 (§ K102.2.6, exception) .
What triggers sprinkler requirements under Appendix K?
Sprinklers are required throughout the ambulatory care floor in specific construction types (IIB, IIIB, VB) when 4 or more care recipients are rendered incapable of self‑preservation, or when any such care recipient is located off the level of exit discharge; high‑rise buildings have analogous triggers (§ K102.3.1 / K102.3.2) .
My facility has an elevator with 30 ft travel — what must I do?
If that elevator is intended to serve emergency personnel for firefighting or rescue, Appendix K requires it be provided with emergency operation in accordance with the California Elevator Safety Orders (travel ≥ 25 ft) (§ K104.3.2, § K104.3.1) .
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
Ask about the CFC
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Fire Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial