CFC · California Fire Code
How are sound stages and production areas classified?
If a sound stage or production facility will admit a live audience, the California Fire Code requires it to be classified as Group A‑1; if not, it is classified as Group F‑1. This classification (CFC **§ 4802.1** & **§ 4802.2**) triggers permitting, egress, sprinkler and alarm requirements in Article 48 and related Building Code provisions. file
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Fire Code distinguishes sound stages, production studios and approved production facilities by whether they host a live audience. If a stage or production facility will have a live audience it must be classified as Group A‑1; if it will not have a live audience it must be classified as Group F‑1. The controlling rules are § 4802.1 and § 4802.2 of the CFC.
If the space will seat or admit a live audience it is an Assembly (Group A‑1); otherwise treat the stage/facility as an industrial/utility use (Group F‑1) per the CFC.
Requirements in detail
Core classification rule
- Live audience stages → Group A‑1. This is the explicit directive of § 4802.1.
- All other stages → Group F‑1. Stages and production facilities without live audiences are assigned Group F‑1 under § 4802.2.
Bold defined terms on first mention:
- Sound Stage — defined in Article 48 as “a building or portion of a building usually insulated from outside noise and natural light for use by the entertainment industry.”
- Approved Production Facility, Production Studio, Production Location — defined in Article 48 and used throughout Sections 4801–4811.
Decision table (quick reference)
| Decision factor | Threshold / value | Result (occupancy) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presence of a live audience | Yes | Group A‑1 | § 4802.1 |
| Presence of a live audience | No | Group F‑1 | § 4802.2 |
| Change from non‑audience to audience use | Any change in use/occupancy | Permit required (see permitting rules) | § 4803.1 |
How this interacts with the California Building Code (CBC)
- The CFC assigns the occupancy group (A‑1 or F‑1) but the CBC contains the detailed occupancy definitions, occupant‑load and small‑space exceptions used to determine assembly classification in borderline cases. The CFC text points assemblies to the Building Code classification (see Group A references in Article 48).
Why classification matters (practical consequences)
- Occupancy classification drives: egress design, occupant loads, fire protection requirements (sprinklers, alarms), means of egress sizing and other life‑safety systems. For example, separate CFC/CBC provisions require permits for live audiences and set minimum egress/aisle and sprinkler requirements elsewhere in Article 48. file
Exceptions & special cases
- The CFC Article notes that some detailed requirements in Sections 4803–4810 apply only to studio sound stages and approved production facilities (i.e., not all production locations). The CFC text explicitly states which parts of Article 48 are scoped to studio sound stages/approved facilities.
- The CFC itself does not list occupant‑load numeric cutoffs for when a stage is considered an Assembly vs. another occupancy — those thresholds and small‑space exceptions are in the California Building Code. If you need to apply occupant‑load or “small assembly” exceptions, consult the CBC provisions referenced from Article 48. file
- Any change from a non‑audience use to a live‑audience use requires a permit from the fire code official; seating arrangements for live‑audience events also require a permit. See § 4803.1 and § 4803.3.
If a specific detail (for example: how many seats convert a stage to A‑1 for regulatory purposes) is needed, that specific threshold is determined by the CBC occupant‑load and assembly‑space rules — the CFC § 4802 delegates the occupancy naming but does not publish every numeric occupant threshold.
Common mistakes
- Misreading “sound stage” definitions: assuming any production activity is automatically Group F‑1 — the presence of a live audience overrides that and moves the space to Group A‑1 per § 4802.1.
- Forgetting permits: converting a rehearsal stage to a live‑audience event without obtaining a change‑of‑use permit (§ 4803.1) or a permit for the seating arrangement (§ 4803.3) is a frequent compliance error.
- Overlooking other Article 48 requirements: classification is only the first step — Article 48 (e.g., § 4804, § 4805, § 4806) contains mandatory housekeeping, egress, sprinkler and fire‑detection requirements tied to how the stage is used. Treat classification as the trigger for those downstream rules. file
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A sound stage is 8,000 ft², normally used for closed‑set filming. The producer plans a one‑night taping with seating for 150 paying audience members.
Step 1 — Classification: Because the event will admit a live audience, the CFC requires classification as Group A‑1 under § 4802.1.
Step 2 — Permits: The owner must obtain a change‑of‑use/occupancy permit for the live‑audience event per § 4803.1, and a permit for the seating arrangement per § 4803.3.
Step 3 — Fire protection/equipment: As an A‑1 occupancy, confirm applicable egress, aisle, exit signage and sprinkler/alarm requirements called out elsewhere in Article 48 and the CBC. For example, Article 48 specifies aisle widths, travel distances and sprinkler rules that will apply once the space is A‑1 for the event; new sound stages are required to be sprinklered as an Extra Hazard, Group 2 system per the fire protection provisions cited in Article 48 and related CBC sections. file
Result: Classify as Group A‑1, obtain the permits required by § 4803, and engage the AHJ early to verify egress, sprinkler and alarm provisions that will apply for the event. file
Related provisions (CFC) — quick links
- § 4801 — Scope, purpose and definitions for Article 48 (sound stages/production).
- § 4802 — Occupancy classification (the controlling section discussed above).
- § 4803 — Required permits (change in use; seating arrangements; pyrotechnics, open flames, etc.).
- § 4804 — General requirements (aisles, travel distance, exit doors, illuminated exit signs).
- § 4805 — Fire‑extinguishing systems (maintenance of existing sprinklers; new sound stages sprinkler requirements; protection for large solid‑ceiling sets).
- § 4806 — Fire detection equipment (portable heat detectors for solid‑ceiling sets, listed alarm control units).
- § 4810 — Design requirements (structural certification for anticipated loads of sets/props).
If you need the exact CBC occupant‑load thresholds that determine when small spaces may avoid Assembly classification, see the California Building Code provisions referenced by Article 48. file
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 4802.1 High relevance — show source text
APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITY. An existing building, or portion of a building, or a group of buildings altered for use by the enter- tainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
PLATFORM. Part of a set, which is a floor or horizontal surface raised above stage floor level.
PRODUCTION LOCATION. Any area or facility outside a production studio, approved production facility or sound stage used by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
PRODUCTION STUDIO. A building, portion of a building, or a group of buildings designed and constructed for use by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
SET. A structure built or assembled for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
SOUND STAGE. A building or portion of a building usually insulated from outside noise and natural light for use by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
SECTION 4802 — OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
4802.1 Live audience stages. Production facilities, sound stages and approved production studios with live audience stages shall be classified as Group A-1 occupancy in accordance with the California Building Code.
4802.2 All other stages. Production studios, sound stages and approved production facilities without live audience stages shall be clas- sified as Group F-1 occupancy in accordance with the California Building Code.
Note: Sections 4803 through 4810 apply only to studio sound stages and approved production facilities.
SECTION 4803 — REQUIRED PERMITS
4803.1 Change in use. A permit from the fire code official shall be obtained any time a change in use or occupancy is intended by the owner (e.g., for live audience shows, wrap parties).
4803.2 Additional permits. A permit shall be required for:
a) Use of pyrotechnic special effects.
b) Open flames. c) Flammable or combustible liquids, gases and dust.
d) Hot work.
e) Presence of motor vehicles within a building. f) Any additional permits as required by the fire code official.
4803.3 Live audiences. A permit shall be required for seating arrangements of all live audience stages.
SECTION 4804 — GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4804.1 Housekeeping. Provisions of this part shall maintain proper housekeeping in accordance with Chapter 3.
4804.2 Aisles. Perimeter aisles within the sound stage and approved production facility shall be provided. Aisles required by this section shall have a minimum width of 4 feet (1219 mm). See Chapter 10 for maintenance requirements. Aisles required by this section shall have a minimum clear unobstructed height of 7 feet (2134 mm).
4804.3 Travel distance. The maximum travel distance to any exit within the sound stage and approved production facility shall be 150 feet (45 720 mm).
4804.4 Exit doors. Exit doors shall be equipped with panic hardware and swing in the direction of exit travel.
CFC § 1.11. 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. 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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48 MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO SOUND
STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
SECTION 4801 — GENERAL
4801.1 Scope. Production studios, sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations used by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production shall be in accordance with the provisions of this article.
4801.2 Purpose. The purpose of this article is to establish minimum requirements that will provide a reasonable degree of safety from fire, panic and explosion. Buildings and structures defined herein shall be in accordance with this article.
4801.3 DEFINITIONS.
APPROVED FIRE WATCH. Individuals provided with at least one approved means for notification of the fire department and their only duty shall be to perform constant patrols of the protected premises and keep watch for fires.
APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITY. An existing building, or portion of a building, or a group of buildings altered for use by the enter- tainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
PLATFORM. Part of a set, which is a floor or horizontal surface raised above stage floor level.
PRODUCTION LOCATION. Any area or facility outside a production studio, approved production facility or sound stage used by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
PRODUCTION STUDIO. A building, portion of a building, or a group of buildings designed and constructed for use by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
SET. A structure built or assembled for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
SOUND STAGE. A building or portion of a building usually insulated from outside noise and natural light for use by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production.
SECTION 4802 — OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
4802.1 Live audience stages. Production facilities, sound stages and approved production studios with live audience stages shall be classified as Group A-1 occupancy in accordance with the California Building Code.
4802.2 All other stages. Production studios, sound stages and approved production facilities without live audience stages shall be clas- sified as Group F-1 occupancy in accordance with the California Building Code.
CFC § 203.1.1 High relevance — show source text
- Business: Group B.
- Educational: Group E.
- Factory and Industrial: Groups F-1 and F-2.
- High Hazard: Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5.
- Institutional: Groups I-1, I-2, I-3 and I-4.
- Mercantile: Group M.
- Residential: Groups R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4.
- Storage: Groups S-1 and S-2.
- Utility and Miscellaneous: Group U.
[BG] 203.1.1 Use designation. Occupancy groups contain subordinate uses having similar hazards and risks to building occupants. Uses include, but are not limited to, those functional designations specified within the occupancy group descriptions in Section 203.1. Certain uses require specific limitations and controls in accordance with the provisions of this code and Chapter 4 of the California Building Code .
[BG] 203.2 Assembly Group A. Assembly Group A occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for the gathering of persons for purposes such as civic, social or religious functions; recreation, food or drink consumption or awaiting transportation or Motion Picture and Television Production Studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and produc- tion locations. Any building or structure or portion thereof used or intended to be used for the showing of motion pictures when an admission fee is charged and when such building or structure is open to the public and has a capacity of 10 or more persons.
[BG] 203.2.1 Small buildings and tenant spaces. A building or tenant space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons shall be classified as a Group B occupancy.
[BG] 203.2.2 Small assembly spaces. The following rooms and spaces shall not be classified as Assembly occupancies:
- A room or space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
- A room or space used for assembly purposes that is less than 750 square feet (70 m [2] ) in area and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
[BG] 203.2.3 Associated with Group E occupancies. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is associated with a Group E occupancy is not considered a separate occupancy.
[BG] 203.2.4 Accessory to places of religious worship. Accessory religious educational rooms and religious auditoriums with occupant loads of less than 100 per room or space are not considered separate occupancies.
[BG] 203.2.5 Special amusement areas. Special amusement areas shall comply with Section 411 of the California Building Code
[BG] 203.2.6 Assembly Group A-1. Group A-1 occupancy includes assembly uses, usually with fixed seating, intended for the production and viewing of the performing arts or motion pictures, including but not limited to:
Motion picture and television production studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and production locations. (With live audiences.)
Motion picture theaters
Symphony and concert halls
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DEFINITIONS
Television and radio studios admitting an audience
Theaters
CFC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
SOUND STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
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 X 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 - 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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48 MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO SOUND
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SECTION 4801 — GENERAL
4801.1 Scope. Production studios, sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations used by the entertainment industry for the purpose of motion picture, television and commercial production shall be in accordance with the provisions of this article.
4801.2 Purpose. The purpose of this article is to establish minimum requirements that will provide a reasonable degree of safety from fire, panic and explosion. Buildings and structures defined herein shall be in accordance with this article.
4801.3 DEFINITIONS.
CFC § 203.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[BG] 203.2.2 Small assembly spaces. The following rooms and spaces shall not be classified as Assembly occupancies:
- A room or space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
- A room or space used for assembly purposes that is less than 750 square feet (70 m [2] ) in area and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
[BG] 203.2.3 Associated with Group E occupancies. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is associated with a Group E occupancy is not considered a separate occupancy.
[BG] 203.2.4 Accessory to places of religious worship. Accessory religious educational rooms and religious auditoriums with occupant loads of less than 100 per room or space are not considered separate occupancies.
[BG] 203.2.5 Special amusement areas. Special amusement areas shall comply with Section 411 of the California Building Code
[BG] 203.2.6 Assembly Group A-1. Group A-1 occupancy includes assembly uses, usually with fixed seating, intended for the production and viewing of the performing arts or motion pictures, including but not limited to:
Motion picture and television production studio Sound Stages, Approved Production Facilities and production locations. (With live audiences.)
Motion picture theaters
Symphony and concert halls
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DEFINITIONS
Television and radio studios admitting an audience
Theaters
[BG] 203.2.7 Assembly Group A-2. Group A-2 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for food and/or drink consumption, including but not limited to:
Banquet halls
Casinos (gaming areas)
Nightclubs
Restaurants, cafeterias and similar dining facilities (including associated commercial kitchens)
Taverns and bars
[BG] 203.2.8 Assembly Group A-3. Group A-3 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for worship, recreation or amusement and other assembly uses not classified elsewhere in Group A, including but not limited to:
Amusement arcades
Art galleries
Bowling alleys
Community halls
Courtrooms
Dance halls (not including food or drink consumption)
Exhibition halls
Funeral parlors
Greenhouses for the conservation and exhibition of plants that provide public access
Gymnasiums (without spectator seating)
Indoor swimming pools (without spectator seating)
Indoor tennis courts (without spectator seating)
Lecture halls
Libraries
Museums
Places of religious worship
Pool and billiard parlors
Waiting areas in transportation terminals
[BG] 203.2.9 Assembly Group A-4. Group A-4 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for viewing of indoor sporting events and activities with spectator seating, including but not limited to:
Arenas
Skating rinks
Swimming pools
Tennis courts
[BG] 203.2.10 Assembly Group A-5. Group A-5 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for participation in or viewing outdoor activities, including but not limited to:
Amusement park structures
Bleachers
CFC § 903.2.11.6 Medium relevance — show source text
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
[F] TABLE 903.2.11.6—ADDITIONAL REQUIRED PROTECTION SYSTEMS—continued Col2 SECTION SUBJECT 440 Horse racing stables 441 Pet kennels 449 Public libraries 453 Buildings containing_Group L occupancies_ 507 Unlimited area buildings 508.5.7 Live/work units 509.4 Incidental uses 1030.6.2.3 Smoke-protected assembly seating CFC Automatic sprinkler system requirements as set forth in Section 903.2.11.6 of the_California Fire Code_ California Fire Code Section 1207 Stationary and mobile energy storage systems [F] 903.2.12 During construction. Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code .
903.2.13 Reserved.
903.2.14 Motion picture and television production studio sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations. 903.2.14.1 Existing sound stages and approved production facilities. All existing sound stages and approved production facili- ties equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions of California Fire Code Chapter 9. 903.2.14.2 New sound stages. All new sound stages shall be equipped with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system. The system shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of the California Fire Code Chapter 9 and shall meet the minimum design requirements of an Extra Hazard, Group 2 system. 903.2.15 Automatic sprinkler system—existing high-rise buildings. See California Fire Code Chapter 11 and California Existing Building Code. 903.2.15.1 Existing Group R-1 and R-2 high-rise buildings fire-extinguishing systems. See California Fire Code Chapter 11 and California Existing Building Code. 903.2.16 Group L occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings housing Group L occupancies. Sprinkler systems for Group L occupancy shall be designed for the square footage area of the Group L occupancy based on an area of sprinkler operation of 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) and design density of 0.20 gpm/sf. In mixed occupancies, portions of floors with Group L occupancies, but not classified as Group L, shall be provided with a sprinkler protection system per NFPA 13. 903.2.16.1 Group L occupancies located on the 11th story and above. The automatic sprinkler system shall be designed and zoned to provide separate indication upon water-flow for each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier on the 11th story and above. 903.2.17 Fixed guideway and passenger rail transit systems. _**903.2.17.1 Automatic sprinkler system.
CFC § 4804.5 Medium relevance — show source text
4804.5 Exit signs. Illuminated exit signs shall be installed in accordance with the California Building Code.
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MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO SOUND STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
4804.6 Exit illumination. Exit illumination shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code. In the event of power fail- ure, exit path illumination shall be automatically provided by an approved emergency back-up system.
4804.7 Exit obstructions. All means of egress shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 10, Section 1005.1.
4804.8 Foam plastics. All foam plastics shall meet the requirements of Chapter 8, Sections 807.5.1.5 and 807.5.7.
4804.9 Decorative materials. Drapes, drops, cut greens, etc., shall meet the flame retardant requirements of California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1, Chapters 5 and 8, Sections 807.5.1.5 and 807.5.7.
SECTION 4805 — FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
4805.1 Existing sound stages and approved production facilities. All existing sound stages and approved production facilities equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions in Chapter 9.
4805.2 New sound stages. All new sound stages shall be equipped with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system. The system shall be installed in accordance with the provisions in Chapter 9 and shall meet the minimum design requirements of an Extra Hazard, Group 2 system.
4805.3 Solid-ceiling sets and platforms. All interior solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms (when provided) over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by one of the following:
1. An approved and listed heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Detectors shall be connected to an approved and listed central, proprietary or remote station service or a local alarm, which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location. Such system shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 9.
2. The ceiling shall be positioned to allow for the operation of the building’s automatic fire sprinkler system after rehearsal, video- taping, filming or broadcasting of programs has been completed for the day.
3. An approved fire watch.
4. Special hazards shall be reviewed by the fire code official (see Additional Fire Protection Systems, Section 901.4.3).
SECTION 4806 — FIRE DETECTION EQUIPMENT
4806.1 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units may be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
CFC § 302.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
14. [SFM] Existing buildings housing existing protective social care homes or facilities established prior to 1972 (see California Fire Code Chapter 11 and California Existing Building Code).
302.1.1 Reserved
302.1.2 Reserved
302.1.3 Pharmacies; veterinary facilities; barbering, cosmetology or electrolysis establishments; and acupuncture offices. See Chapter 12.
302.2 Use designation. Occupancy groups contain subordinate uses having similar hazards and risks to building occupants. Uses include, but are not limited to, those functional designations specified within the occupancy group descriptions in Section 302.1. Certain uses require specific limitations and controls in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 4 and elsewhere in this code.
SECTION 303—ASSEMBLY GROUP A
303.1 Assembly Group A. Assembly Group A occupancy includes, among others, the use of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, for the gathering of persons for purposes such as civic, social or religious functions; recreation, food or drink consumption or awaiting transportation ; motion picture and television production studio sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations; or for the showing of motion pictures when an admission fee is charged and when such building or structure is open to the public and has a capacity of 10 or more persons.
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OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE
303.1.1 Small buildings and tenant spaces. A building or tenant space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons shall be classified as a Group B occupancy.
303.1.2 Small assembly spaces. The following rooms and spaces shall not be classified as Assembly occupancies:
- A room or space used for assembly purposes with an occupant load of less than 50 persons and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
- A room or space used for assembly purposes that is less than 750 square feet (70 m [2] ) in area and accessory to another occupancy shall be classified as a Group B occupancy or as part of that occupancy.
303.1.3 Associated with Group E occupancies. A room or space used for assembly purposes that is associated with a Group E occupancy is not considered a separate occupancy.
303.1.4 Accessory to places of religious worship. Accessory religious educational rooms and religious auditoriums with occupant loads of less than 100 per room or space are not considered separate occupancies.
303.1.5 Special amusement areas. Special amusement areas shall comply with Section 411.
303.2 Assembly Group A-1. Group A-1 occupancy includes assembly uses, usually with fixed seating, intended for the production and viewing of the performing arts or motion pictures, including but not limited to:
Motion picture and television production studio sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations. (with live audiences).
Motion picture theaters
Symphony and concert halls
Television and radio studios admitting an audience
Theaters
303.3 Assembly Group A-2. Group A-2 occupancy includes assembly uses intended for food and/or drink consumption, including but not limited to:
Banquet halls
Casinos (gaming areas)
Nightclubs
Restaurants, cafeterias and similar dining facilities (including associated commercial kitchens)
Taverns and bars
CFC § 4803.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 4803 — REQUIRED PERMITS
4803.1 Change in use. A permit from the fire code official shall be obtained any time a change in use or occupancy is intended by the owner (e.g., for live audience shows, wrap parties).
4803.2 Additional permits. A permit shall be required for:
a) Use of pyrotechnic special effects.
b) Open flames. c) Flammable or combustible liquids, gases and dust.
d) Hot work.
e) Presence of motor vehicles within a building. f) Any additional permits as required by the fire code official.
4803.3 Live audiences. A permit shall be required for seating arrangements of all live audience stages.
SECTION 4804 — GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4804.1 Housekeeping. Provisions of this part shall maintain proper housekeeping in accordance with Chapter 3.
4804.2 Aisles. Perimeter aisles within the sound stage and approved production facility shall be provided. Aisles required by this section shall have a minimum width of 4 feet (1219 mm). See Chapter 10 for maintenance requirements. Aisles required by this section shall have a minimum clear unobstructed height of 7 feet (2134 mm).
4804.3 Travel distance. The maximum travel distance to any exit within the sound stage and approved production facility shall be 150 feet (45 720 mm).
4804.4 Exit doors. Exit doors shall be equipped with panic hardware and swing in the direction of exit travel.
4804.5 Exit signs. Illuminated exit signs shall be installed in accordance with the California Building Code.
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MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO SOUND STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILITIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS
4804.6 Exit illumination. Exit illumination shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code. In the event of power fail- ure, exit path illumination shall be automatically provided by an approved emergency back-up system.
4804.7 Exit obstructions. All means of egress shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 10, Section 1005.1.
4804.8 Foam plastics. All foam plastics shall meet the requirements of Chapter 8, Sections 807.5.1.5 and 807.5.7.
4804.9 Decorative materials. Drapes, drops, cut greens, etc., shall meet the flame retardant requirements of California Code of Regula- tions, Title 19, Division 1, Chapters 5 and 8, Sections 807.5.1.5 and 807.5.7.
SECTION 4805 — FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS
4805.1 Existing sound stages and approved production facilities. All existing sound stages and approved production facilities equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions in Chapter 9.
CFC § 4805.3 Medium relevance — show source text
4805.3 Solid-ceiling sets and platforms. All interior solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms (when provided) over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by one of the following:
1. An approved and listed heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Detectors shall be connected to an approved and listed central, proprietary or remote station service or a local alarm, which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location. Such system shall be installed in accordance with Chapter 9.
2. The ceiling shall be positioned to allow for the operation of the building’s automatic fire sprinkler system after rehearsal, video- taping, filming or broadcasting of programs has been completed for the day.
3. An approved fire watch.
4. Special hazards shall be reviewed by the fire code official (see Additional Fire Protection Systems, Section 901.4.3).
SECTION 4806 — FIRE DETECTION EQUIPMENT
4806.1 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units may be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
4806.2 Heat detectors. Heat detection required by this article shall be defined as a portable system as it is intended to be reinstalled when platforms or sets are changed.
Heat detectors may be secured to standard outlet boxes which may be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
Heat detectors shall be provided for solid-ceiling sets and platforms where required by Sections 4805.3 and 4811.14.
SECTION 4807 — FIRE SAFETY OFFICERS
4807.1 Where permits are required by the Fire Code, a requirement for standby fire safety officers shall be determined by the fire code official on a case-by-case basis. Standby fire safety officers shall not be required when the provisions of this article are met.
SECTION 4808 — ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
4808.1 General. All electrical equipment including lighting, cabling and temporary power, such as portable generators, shall be main- tained in good working order and shall comply with the provisions of the California Electrical Code.
4808.2 Lighting and power requirements. A studio sound stage and approved production facility shall be provided with a minimum of 35 watts per square foot of permanently installed power dedicated for the distribution of production lighting and power. Mobile genera- tors may be utilized for auxiliary power.
4808.3 Distribution. Distribution equipment shall be designed for sound stage use. The wiring to such equipment shall be considered permanent and shall comply with applicable provisions of the California Electrical Code. Temporary feeders shall not be tapped from panelboards and switchboards where deadfront covers have to be removed.
4808.4 Installations. Permanent or temporary electrical installations shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code and this code. Such equipment shall not obstruct exits, means of egress or fire department access, unless approved by the fire code official.
CFC § 410.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text
410.4.2 Separation from each other. Dressing rooms, scene docks, property rooms, workshops, storerooms and compartments contiguous to the stage shall be separated from each other by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.
[BE] 410.5 Means of egress. Except as modified or as provided for in this section, the provisions of Chapter 10 shall apply.
[BE] 410.5.1 Arrangement. Where two or more exits or exit access doorways from the stage are required in accordance with Section 1006.2, not fewer than one exit or exit access doorway shall be provided on each side of a stage.
[BE] 410.5.2 Stairway and ramp enclosure. Exit access stairways and ramps serving a stage or platform are not required to be enclosed. Exit access stairways and ramps serving technical production areas are not required to be enclosed.
[BE] 410.5.3 Technical production areas. Technical production areas shall be provided with means of egress and means of escape in accordance with Sections 410.5.3.1 through 410.5.3.5.
[BE] 410.5.3.1 Number of means of egress. Not fewer than one means of egress shall be provided from technical production
areas.
[BE] 410.5.3.2 Exit access travel distance. The exit access travel distance shall be not greater than 300 feet (91 440 mm) for buildings without an automatic sprinkler system and 400 feet (122 mm) for buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
[BE] 410.5.3.3 Two means of egress. Where two means of egress are required, the common path of travel shall be not greater than 100 feet (30 480 mm).
Exception: A means of escape to a roof in place of a second means of egress is permitted.
[BE] 410.5.3.4 Path of egress travel. The following exit access components are permitted where serving technical production
areas:
Stairways.
Ramps.
Spiral stairways.
Catwalks.
Alternating tread devices.
Permanent ladders.
[BE] 410.5.3.5 Width. The path of egress travel within and from technical support areas shall be not less than 22 inches (559 mm).
[F] 410.6 Automatic sprinkler system. Stages shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Sprinklers shall be installed under the roof and gridiron and under all catwalks and galleries over the stage. Sprinklers shall be installed in dressing rooms, performer lounges, shops and storerooms accessory to such stages.
Exceptions:
- Sprinklers are not required under stage areas less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in clear height that are utilized exclusively for storage of tables and chairs, provided that the concealed space is separated from the adjacent spaces by Type X gypsum board not less than [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) in thickness.
CFC § 3.7.5.1 Medium relevance — show source text
3.7.5.1|Flammable and combustible liquid storage rooms| |5704.3.8.4|Flammable and combustible liquid storage warehouses| |5705.3.7.3|Flammable and combustible liquid Group H-2 or H-3 areas| |6004.1.2|Gas cabinets for highly toxic and toxic gas| |6004.1.3|Exhausted enclosures for highly toxic and toxic gas| |6004.2.2.6|Gas rooms for highly toxic and toxic gas| |6004.3.3|Outdoor storage for highly toxic and toxic gas| |6504.1.1|Pyroxylin plastic storage cabinets| |6504.1.3|Pyroxylin plastic storage vaults| |6504.2|Pyroxylin plastic storage and manufacturing| |California Building Code Section 440|Horse racing stables| |California Building Code Section 441|Pet kennels| |California Building Code Section 449|Public libraries| |For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.023 m3.|For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.023 m3.|
903.2.12 During construction. Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 3307.
903.2.13 Reserved.
903.2.14 Motion picture and television production studio sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations.
903.2.14.1 Existing Sound Stages and Approved Production Facilities. All existing sound stages and approved production facil- ities equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions in this chapter.
903.2.14.2 New sound stages. All new sound stages shall be equipped with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system. The system shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of the California Fire Code, Chapter 9, and shall meet the minimum design requirements of an Extra Hazard, Group 2 system.
903.2.15 Automatic sprinkler system – existing high-rise buildings. Regardless of any other provisions of these regulations, every existing high-rise building of Type II-B, Type III-B or Type V-B construction shall be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system conforming to NFPA 13.
903.2.15.1 Existing R-1 and R-2 high-rise buildings fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in any existing high-rise structure in which a Group R-1 or a Group R-2 occupancy is located shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected to the required fire alarm system.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-19
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
903.2.16 Group L occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings housing Group L occupancies. Sprinkler systems for Group L occupancy shall be designed for the square footage area of the Group L occupancy based on an area of sprinkler operation of 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) and design density of 0.20 gpm/sf.
In mixed occupancies, portions of floors with Group L occupancies, but not classified as Group L, shall be provided with a sprinkler protection system per NFPA 13.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit if I add a few chairs for visitors on a normal shoot day?
Yes. Any intended change in use or occupancy (including staging a live‑audience event) requires a permit from the fire code official under § 4803.1; seating arrangements for live audiences specifically require a permit under § 4803.3.
If only 20 people show up, is it still Group A‑1?
The CFC classifies spaces that will have a live audience as Group A‑1 via § 4802.1. For numeric occupant‑load exemptions (small assembly rules) you must consult the California Building Code’s assembly occupancy thresholds; the CFC itself assigns A‑1 when a live audience is present but defers detailed occupant‑load mechanics to the CBC. file
Where in the CFC are the egress requirements I have to meet once classified A‑1?
Article 48 contains general egress limits (e.g., aisle width and maximum travel distance in § 4804) and points you to the CBC for detailed egress design that follows from the occupancy classification.
Are new sound stages required to have sprinklers?
Yes. Article 48 (fire‑extinguishing systems) requires that new sound stages be equipped with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system meeting Extra Hazard, Group 2 design requirements. See the fire protection sections cited in Article 48.
Who decides if a space is an “approved production facility” versus a temporary production location?
Article 48 contains definitions and scope; the AHJ (fire code official) enforces permitting and may interpret whether a given facility meets definitions for “approved production facility,” “production studio” or a temporary “production location.” Consult § 4801 and coordinate with the AHJ.
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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Motion picture and television production (Chapter 48)
California Fire Code