CFC · California Fire Code
How do referenced standards become part of the California Fire Code?
If the CFC points to an outside standard, that standard — but only the edition and clauses listed in **Chapter 80** and only to the extent the CFC references it — becomes enforceable; when a conflict exists, the CFC itself governs.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The codes and standards listed in Chapter 80 and cross‑referenced in the body of the California Fire Code become an enforceable part of the CFC “to the prescribed extent of each such reference.” This is the rule in § 102.7: the referenced standard is treated “as if printed in the body of the code,” and the list of which standards (and their editions/effective dates) is published in Chapter 80.
The single controlling idea: if a standard is listed in Chapter 80 and a CFC section points to that standard, that standard is enforceable under the CFC only to the extent the code references it (see § 102.7).
Requirements in detail
What becomes enforceable
- Referenced standards listed in Chapter 80 are incorporated into the CFC “to the prescribed extent of the reference” (they are enforceable only where, and for the items, the CFC points to them). See § 102.7.
- Chapter 80 is the official list that shows the promulgator, standard identification, effective date, title, and the CFC sections that reference the standard; that listing is the source for which edition/standard is adopted.
What happens if a referenced standard conflicts with the CFC
- Where there is a conflict, the CFC provision controls. This is stated in § 102.7.1 (conflicts).
How references in appendices and tables work
- Appendices and individual chapters may include their own “Referenced Standards” tables (for example, Appendix I’s I102.1, Appendix L’s L107.1, Appendix J’s J102.1) that list standards applicable to that appendix. Those entries are subject to the same Chapter 80 / § 102.7 incorporation rule.
Quick decision table (decision‑relevant dimensions)
| Decision question | What the code says / what to check | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Which standards apply for a specific CFC requirement? | Check the CFC section that references a standard and then confirm the exact edition/ID listed in Chapter 80. | § 102.7; Chapter 80 |
| Are those standards legally enforceable? | Yes — standards in Chapter 80 are “considered to be part of the requirements of this code” to the extent referenced. | § 102.7 |
| If the standard's language conflicts with the CFC text? | The CFC provision governs (CFC controls the conflict). | § 102.7.1 |
| Where is the edition/date for a listed standard? | Chapter 80 lists the effective date and identification for each referenced standard. | Chapter 80 (Referenced Standards) |
| Are standards in appendices treated differently? | No — appendix tables list standards relevant to that appendix; their application follows § 102.7 and the Chapter 80 list. | Appendix referenced‑standards sections (e.g., § I102.1, § L107.1, § J102.1) |
Exceptions & special cases
- “To the prescribed extent” means only the parts of the external standard that the CFC section references are enforceable; the code does not automatically import every clause of an external standard unless the code references it. See § 102.7.
- Where the CFC reprints portions of CCR Title 19 (State Fire Marshal material), the matrix and adoption notes explain which state Title 19 provisions are included for convenience; those adoption notes and the matrix do not change the scope/applicability of the original Title 19 text. See the Chapter 80/matrix notes for context.
- If a project or product claims compliance with an edition of a standard that is NOT the edition listed in Chapter 80, that edition is not automatically part of the CFC — the edition in Chapter 80 is the enforceable one. Chapter 80 lists the effective date and edition to be used.
If you need a determination about a particular edition that is not shown in Chapter 80 or the CFC sections, the file excerpts I consulted do not show any procedure for automatic use of newer editions — you must rely on the edition listed in Chapter 80 or on an adopted amendment (not present in the excerpts).
Common mistakes
- Assuming “any” edition of an outside standard applies. (Wrong — use the edition listed in Chapter 80.)
- Treating a referenced standard as broader than the code reference. Only the portions the CFC references are enforceable — the rest is not automatically imported. § 102.7.
- Forgetting to check appendix referenced‑standards tables (appendices commonly list standards specific to that appendix — e.g., I102.1, L107.1).
- Overlooking the conflict rule: if language in the external standard contradicts a CFC requirement, the CFC prevails under § 102.7.1.
Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers
Scenario: A design submittal specifies sprinkler installation “per NFPA 13, 2023 edition.” The plan reviewer must determine whether that edition is enforceable.
Step 1 — Find the CFC section that requires sprinkler design (for example, the project‑applicable CFC section references NFPA 13). The applicable CFC section will point to a referenced standard. (See the CFC section text that cites NFPA 13.)
Step 2 — Open Chapter 80 and find the NFPA 13 entry. Chapter 80 will show the exact NFPA 13 edition/effective date that the CFC adopts (for example, “NFPA 13—22” if the 2022 edition is listed). The edition in Chapter 80 is the edition enforceable under the CFC.
Step 3 — Apply the standard only “to the prescribed extent” the CFC section references and resolve any differences by applying the CFC first (per § 102.7.1). If plans submit NFPA 13 (2023) but Chapter 80 lists NFPA 13—2022, the reviewer must enforce the edition listed in Chapter 80 unless the jurisdiction has formally adopted a different edition or amendment.
Numeric illustration:
- CFC requires NFPA 13 and Chapter 80 lists NFPA 13—22 (i.e., 2022 edition).
- The submittal references NFPA 13—23 (2023).
- Result: Inspector/official enforces NFPA 13—22 (the edition in Chapter 80) and treats NFPA‑CFC conflicts in favor of the CFC.
Related provisions
- § 102.7 — Referenced codes and standards; incorporation rule.
- § 102.7.1 — Conflicts between the CFC and referenced standards; CFC controls.
- Chapter 80 — Referenced Standards (chapter listing promulgator, identification, effective date, and sections that reference the standard).
- § I102.1 — Appendix I referenced standards table (example of appendix‑level listing).
- § L107.1 — Appendix L referenced standards table (example: NFPA 1989 cited here).
- § J102.1 — Appendix J referenced standards table (example: NFPA 13 referenced).
Note: § 102.7.2 was referenced in the CFC text as a regulating section, but the excerpts I accessed did not include the text of § 102.7.2. I will not invent its content; if you want, I can search specifically for § 102.7.2 and return the exact language.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
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
CFC § 102.7 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 65 addresses the significant hazards associated with pyroxylin (cellulose nitrate) plastics, which are the most dangerous and unstable of all plastic compounds. Strict compliance with the provisions of this chapter, along with proper housekeeping and storage arrangements, helps to reduce the hazards associated with pyroxylin (cellulose nitrate) plastics in a fire or other emergencies.
Chapter 66 Unstable (Reactive) Materials
Chapter 66 addresses the hazards of unstable (reactive) liquid and solid materials as well as unstable (reactive) compressed gases. Materials that pose multiple hazards, such as toxicity, corrosivity, explosivity, flammability or oxidizing potential, must conform to the requirements of the code with respect to all hazards. Strict compliance with the provisions of this chapter, along with proper housekeeping and storage arrangements, help reduce the exposure hazards associated with unstable (reactive) materials in a fire or other emergency.
Chapter 67 Water-Reactive Solids and Liquids
Chapter 67 addresses the hazards associated with water-reactive materials that are solid or liquid at normal temperatures and pressures. In addition to their water reactivity, these materials may pose a wide range of other hazards, such as toxicity, flammability, corrosiveness or oxidizing potential. Strict compliance with the requirements of this chapter, along with proper housekeeping and storage arrangements, helps to reduce the exposure hazards associated with water-reactive materials in a fire or other emergency.
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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
CFC § 80-3 High relevance — show source text
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Part VI— Referenced Standards
80 REFERENCED STANDARDS
User notes:
About this chapter: This code contains numerous references to standards promulgated by other organizations that are used to provide requirements for materials and methods of construction. This chapter contains a comprehensive list of all standards that are referenced in this code. These standards, in essence, are part of this code to the extent of the reference to the standard.
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section
102.7.
AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, 444 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 249, Washington, DC 20001
HB-17—2002: Standard Specifications for Highway Bridges, 17th Edition
503.2.6
AFSI Architectural Fabric Structures Institute, c/o Industrial Fabric Association International, Roseville, MN 55113
ASI-77: Design and Standards Manual
3103.9.2
ANSI American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036
ANSI E1.21—2020: Entertainment Technology: Temporary Structures Used for Technical Production of Outdoor Entertainment
Events
3105.1, 3105.3, 3105.4
APA APA – The Engineered Wood Association, 7011 S. 19th Street, Tacoma, WA 98466-5333
ANSI/APA PRG 320—18: Standard for Performance-rated Cross Laminated Timber
701.6, 914.3.1.2, 3303.5
API American Petroleum Institute. 1220 L Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005
Publ 2201—6th Edition (2023): Procedures for Welding or Hot Tapping on Equipment in Service
5706.7
RP 2009—8th Edition (2022): Safe Welding and Cutting Practices in Refineries, Gas Plants and Petrochemical Plants
5706.7
RP 2028 4th Edition—(2024): Flame Arrestors in Piping Systems
5704.2.7.3.2
RP 651—5th Edition (2022): Cathodic Protection of Aboveground Petroleum Storage Tanks
5706.7, 5706.7.1
RP 752— 4th Edition (2022): Management of Hazards Associated with Location of Process Plant Buildings, CMA Managers Guide
5706.7
RP 1604—4th Edition (2021): Closure of Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks
5704.2.13
RP 1615—(1996) 6th Edition (R2020): Installation of Underground-Petroleum Storage Systems
5704.2.13.1.5, 5706.7
CFC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 5 Special Building Construction Regulations.
The regulations in Chapter 5 establish minimum standards for the location, design and construction of buildings and structures based on construction within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Area.
The construction provisions of Chapter 5 are intended to supplement the requirements of the California Building Code and Califor- nia Residential Code and address mitigation of the unique hazards posed to buildings by wildfire and to reduce the hazards of building fires spreading to wildland fuels. This is accomplished by requiring ignition-resistant construction materials.
Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements.
Chapter 6 contains additional requirements for development and construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and areas designated by the State Fire Marshal as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). While many of these provisions are found in Title 14 and Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, they are replicated here for the code user. The local jurisdiction has the authority to apply the same regulations to LRA when the regulations are adopted by local ordinance.
The requirements in this chapter reference the process for adoption of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA; criteria for evaluating existing subdivisions that are at significant fire risk and are without an adequate secondary egress; and criteria for fire safety provisions required in the Safety Element of a city or county General Plan.
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The chapter includes mitigation strategies to reduce the hazards of fire originating within a structure spreading to wildland and fire originating in wildland spreading to structures.
Chapter 7 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 7 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 6 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, 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.
Appendix A General Requirements.
Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire-protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildlandurban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.
Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan.
Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.
Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework.
CFC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
The chapter includes mitigation strategies to reduce the hazards of fire originating within a structure spreading to wildland and fire originating in wildland spreading to structures.
Chapter 7 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 7 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 6 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, 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.
Appendix A General Requirements.
Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire-protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildlandurban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.
Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan.
Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.
Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework.
Appendix C contains a preliminary Community WUI Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework as a suggested methodology to begin to support communities at risk in the identification of their unique hazards and to provide common metrics for comparisons between communities. This preliminary framework includes information on community size, population and fuels; on notification and evacuation; and on the community infrastructure and firefighting response potential. Aspects of this framework may already be included in various community- level documents, such as Community Wildfire Protection Plans or evacuation plans. Development of a standard framework will (1) consolidate relevant WUI fire hazard and planning information in one place, and (2) allow for cross-community comparisons.
The evaluation required to implement this framework will support prefire hazard assessment and during-fire response operations. An increased understanding of fire evacuation, fire structural response and fire defensive action relationships is needed to assess the over- all community WUI fire hazard. The quantification of these relationships will enable communities to optimize the community-level response to WUI fire hazards in a more integrated approach and result in increased life safety and reduced losses.
Appendix D Model Ordinance for Fire Hazard Severity Zone Adoption.
Appendix D is an informational appendix that is a sample ordinance designed as guidance for a city, county, city and county, or fire district to establish and designate fire hazard severity zones within their jurisdiction.
Appendix E Reserved.
Appendix F Characteristics of Fire-Smart Vegetation.
Appendix F is an informational appendix provided for the convenience of the code user. It is simply a compilation of the eight characteristics of fire-smart vegetation that can be used effectively within wildland-urban interface areas to reduce the likelihood of fire spread through vegetation.
**App
CFC § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 Construction and design provisions. The construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions where required in Chapter 11.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions that, in the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.
[A] 102.2 Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions. The administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Conditions and operations arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing conditions and operations.
[A] 102.3 Change of use or occupancy. A change of occupancy shall not be made unless the use or occupancy is made to comply with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code .
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, a change of occupancy shall be permitted without complying with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code, provided that the new or proposed use or occupancy is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use or occupancy.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
[A] 102.4 Application of building code. The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the California Building Code, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the California Building Code, shall be made in accordance therewith.
[A] 102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residen- tial Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
- Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 shall apply.
- Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.6 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code relating to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings where such buildings or structures do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Fire protection in designated historic buildings shall be provided with an approved fire protection plan as required in Section 1103.1.1.
[A] 102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80, and such codes and standards shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated by Sections 102.7.1 and 102.7.2.
[A] 102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
CFC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Title 19, Division 1]|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 13—96|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 38—99|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 193—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 199—95|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 228—97|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 260—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 262—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 268A—98|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 312—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 346—05|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 464—03|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 497B—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 521—99|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 539—00|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 632—00|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 753—04|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 790_Edition 9—2022_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 791—06|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 813—96|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 864—03|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 1974—17|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 9540_Edition 3—2023_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |UL 9540A_Edition 4—2019_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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Part VI— Referenced Standards
80 REFERENCED STANDARDS
User notes:
About this chapter: This code contains numerous references to standards promulgated by other organizations that are used to provide requirements for materials and methods of construction. This chapter contains a comprehensive list of all standards that are referenced in this code. These standards, in essence, are part of this code to the extent of the reference to the standard.
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section
102.7.
AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, 444 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 249, Washington, DC 20001
CFC § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, 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.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
The purpose of Appendix C is to provide voluntary prescriptive alternatives for addressing the retrofit of buildings in high-wind areas. Currently, there are two chapters which deal with the retrofit of gable ends and the fastening of roof decks, Appendix Chapters C1 and C2, respectively. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix D Board of Appeals.
Appendix D 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 E Temporary Emergency Uses.
Appendix E is intended to provide guidance for designers, engineers, architects and fire and building officials on allowing temporary emergency uses of existing buildings with respect to the minimum code requirements. This appendix is a template or checklist that references the relevant code requirement of concerns.
Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies.
In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, the CEBC might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code
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officials to be able to determine the fire-resistance rating of the existing building elements as part of the overall evaluation for the assessment of the need for improvements. These guidelines are based upon the Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials published by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS).
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CFC § 1.1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
Chapter 13 is not adopted by the State of California but may be available for adoption by local ordinance, see Section 1.1.11. See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.
Chapter 14 Relocated or Moved Buildings.
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, 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.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
CFC § 8.4. Medium relevance — show source text
8.4. Diesel fuel tank is less than two-thirds full.
8.5. Battery readings, lubrication oil or cooling water levels are abnormal.
APPENDIX I-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX I—FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS—NONCOMPLIANT CONDITIONS
SECTION I102—REFERENCED STANDARDS
I102.1 General. See Table I102.1 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 I102.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3 STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTIONS HEREIN REFERENCED NFPA 10—22 Portable Fire Extinguishers I101.1 NFPA 25—23 Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of
Water-based Fire Protection SystemsI101.1 NFPA 72—22 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code I101.1 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX I-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX I-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX J – BUILDING INFORMATION SIGN
(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)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGT-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section CFC § D108 Medium relevance — show source text
D107.2 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 D108—REFERENCED STANDARDS
D108.1 General. See Table D108.1 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 D108.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3 STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTIONS HEREIN REFERENCED ASTM F2200—14 Standard Specification for Automated Vehicular Gate Construction D103.5 UL 325—02 Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems,
with Revisions through May 2015D103.5 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX D-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX D-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX E – HAZARD CATEGORIES
(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)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGT-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section CFC § 3.1. Medium relevance — show source text
Defects in the system or leaks detected shall be documented and repaired. 2. A cylinder-filling performance test shall be conducted to verify compliance with the required breathing air cylinder refill rate from the exterior mobile air connection and, where provided, a stored air pressure supply system. 3. The air quality monitoring system shall be tested to verify both of the following conditions: 3.1. Visual indicators required by Section L104.15.1 function properly. 3.2. Supervisory signals are transmitted as required by Section L104.15.2 for each sensor based on a sensor function test. 4. Connections intended for fire department use shall be confirmed as compatible with the fire department’s mobile air unit, SCBA cylinders and, where provided, RIC/UAC connections. 5. Air samples shall be taken from not less than two fill stations and submitted to an approved gas analysis laboratory to verify compliance with NFPA 1989. The FARS shall not be placed into service until a written report verifying compliance with NFPA 1989 has been provided to the fire code official.
SECTION L106—INSPECTION, TESTING AND MAINTENANCE
L106.1 Periodic inspection, testing and maintenance. A FARS shall be continuously maintained in an operative condition and shall be inspected not less than annually. Not less than quarterly, an air sample shall be taken from the system and tested to verify compliance with NFPA 1989. The laboratory test results shall be maintained on site and readily available for review by the fire code official.
SECTION L107—REFERENCED STANDARDS
L107.1 General. See Table L107.1 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 L107.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3 STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTIONS HEREIN REFERENCED ASME B31.3—2022 Process Piping L104.2.1, L105.1 CGA S-1.3—2020 Pressure Relief Device Standards—Part 3
Stationary Storage Containers for Compressed GasesL104.7 NFPA 1901—16 Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus L104.5.1 NFPA 1989—13 Breathing Air Quality for Fire Emergency Services Respiratory Protection L104.2.2, L105.1, L106.1 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX L-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX L-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX M – HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS—RETROACTIVE AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER REQUIREMENT
(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)
Frequently asked questions
Who decides which edition of a standard is enforceable?
The edition identified in Chapter 80 is the enforceable edition for the CFC; Chapter 80 lists the standard ID and the effective date.
If a local jurisdiction wants to use a newer edition, can it?
A local jurisdiction can adopt more restrictive standards by ordinance, but the CFC itself enforces the editions listed in Chapter 80 unless the jurisdiction has formally adopted and filed a local amendment consistent with California procedures. The Chapter 80 listing governs statewide CFC enforcement.
Does a referenced standard automatically apply in full?
No. A referenced standard applies only “to the prescribed extent of the reference” — only those portions the CFC calls for are enforceable. § 102.7.
If a standard says something that conflicts with the CFC, which rule wins?
The CFC controls; where conflicts occur, the provisions of the CFC supersede the referenced standard (§ 102.7.1).
Where can I find the list of referenced standards and their editions?
Open Chapter 80 of the CFC — it lists each standard’s promulgator, identification, effective date, title, and the CFC sections that reference it.
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
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