CFC · California Fire Code
What are the rules for portable electric cooking appliances?
In plain terms: use only listed, labeled portable electric cooking appliances; don’t plug them into extension cords; disconnect them when they’re not being used for temporary operations; and keep them at least 3 feet (914 mm) from combustible materials — these rules come from **§ 4105.1**, **§ 4105.1.1**, **§ 4105.1.3**, **§ 4105.1.4**, and **§ 4105.1.5** of the California Fire Code.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Portable electric cooking appliances are permitted for use in all occupancies but only when they meet basic safety conditions in Chapter 41. The controlling requirements require the appliance to be listed and labeled, prohibit use with extension cords, require temporary appliances to be disconnected when not in use, and require a minimum clearance of 3 feet (914 mm) from combustible materials and prohibition in Group H occupancies. See § 4105.1, § 4105.1.1, § 4105.1.3, § 4105.1.4, and § 4105.1.5 of the California Fire Code for the full text.
The single most important rule: use only listed, labeled portable electric cooking appliances as intended by the manufacturer, never on extension cords, disconnect them when they are not being used for temporary operations, and keep them at least 3 feet (914 mm) away from combustibles (see § 4105.1.1, § 4105.1.3, § 4105.1.4, § 4105.1.5).
Requirements in detail
Scope / general permission
- The code permits portable electric cooking appliances to be used in all occupancies provided they meet the specific rules in Section 4105. See § 4105.1.
Listing, labeling and instructions
- Appliances must be listed and labeled and used in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions. See § 4105.1.1.
- Bold takeaway: use only appliances with an appropriate third‑party listing and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Power‑connection and temporary use (operational control)
- For temporary operations, the appliance must be disconnected from the power supply when not in use. See § 4105.1.4.
Extension cords
- Portable electric cooking appliances shall not be plugged into extension cords. See § 4105.1.3.
Clearance and prohibited locations
- Appliances shall not be operated within 3 feet (914 mm) of any combustible materials. See § 4105.1.5.
- Appliances shall not be operated in Group H occupancies and shall be operated only in locations for which they are listed. See § 4105.1.5.
Quick reference table (decision‑relevant dimensions / values)
| Decision point | Required value / action | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Permission to use portable electric cooking appliances | Permitted in all occupancies subject to the section rules | § 4105.1 |
| Listing & instructions | Appliance must be listed and labeled and used per listing/manufacturer | § 4105.1.1 |
| Use with extension cords | Prohibited — do not plug into extension cords | § 4105.1.3 |
| Temporary operations (when not in use) | Disconnect from power when not in use | § 4105.1.4 |
| Minimum clearance to combustibles | ≥ 3 feet (914 mm) | § 4105.1.5 |
| Prohibited occupancy | Not permitted in Group H | § 4105.1.5 |
| Operate only where listed | Appliance may only be used in locations for which it is listed | § 4105.1.5 |
Exceptions & special cases
- The text of § 4105.1 through § 4105.1.5 does not list specific exceptions for these requirements (no alternate clearances or permitted uses are given in these subsections). The subsections require listed appliances, no extension‑cord use, disconnection for temporary operations, and a 3‑ft clearance / prohibition in Group H.
- Other parts of the code (or other code chapters such as mechanical, or provisions that govern fuel‑fired appliances and tents) may impose additional or alternative requirements; those are separate and must be checked when applicable. The specific exceptions for fuel‑fired appliances and tent/cooking tents are found elsewhere in Chapter 41 and related sections. See Related provisions below for links to those sections.
Common mistakes
- Plugging a hot plate or griddle into an extension cord (violates § 4105.1.3).
- Using an unlabeled, unlisted or modified appliance (violates § 4105.1.1).
- Leaving a portable appliance energized between service periods at a temporary event (violates § 4105.1.4).
- Placing the appliance too close to combustibles (less than 3 feet (914 mm)) or operating in a Group H space (violates § 4105.1.5).
- Assuming a listing alone is sufficient — the appliance must be used in accordance with its listing and manufacturer’s instructions (see § 4105.1.1).
Worked example
Scenario: A vendor brings a listed, portable electric griddle to a weekend food fair inside a community center.
Apply the rules:
- Confirm the griddle is listed and labeled and follow the manufacturer’s instructions (requirement: § 4105.1.1).
- Do not connect the griddle to an extension cord; arrange for an approved receptacle at the booth (prohibition: § 4105.1.3).
- Because this is a temporary operation, disconnect the griddle from the power supply when it is not being used (requirement: § 4105.1.4).
- Place the griddle at least 3 feet (914 mm) away from any combustible decorations, tablecloths, or tent walls (clearance: § 4105.1.5).
- Verify the event location is not a Group H occupancy (if it were, portable electric cooking appliances would be prohibited per § 4105.1.5).
If the vendor follows those four checks (listed appliance, no extension cord, disconnect when not in use, ≥3 ft clearance) they will be in compliance with the specific § 4105.1 requirements cited above.
Related provisions
- § 4101.9 — Cooking operations (general cooking equipment precautions for combustible oils/solids).
- § 4104.2 – § 4104.5 — Portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances and separation rules for open‑flame devices and cooking tents (if fuel‑fired appliances are considered).
- § 906 (portable fire extinguishers and cooking hazards) — Requirements for the type and placement of extinguishers for cooking appliances.
- Other code chapters (e.g., California Mechanical Code) include appliance‑specific clearances and installation rules for built‑in and food‑service appliances; consult those when an appliance is also covered there.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 41-3 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 41-3
**
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
**
**
TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
4101.9 Cooking operations. Portable cooking equipment using combustible oils or solids shall comply with all of the following:
- A noncombustible lid shall be immediately available. The lid shall be of sufficient size to cover the cooking well completely.
- Equipment shall be placed on a noncombustible surface.
- A portable fire extinguisher for protection appropriate to the cooking media shall be provided at a location approved by the fire code official.
4101.10 Hazard abatement. Operations or conditions deemed unsafe or hazardous by the fire code official shall be abated. Equipment and devices that are modified or damaged and constitute an electrical shock or fire hazard shall not be used.
4101.10.1 Correction of unsafe conditions. The fire code official shall be authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator or user of the equipment to abate unsafe operations or conditions or cause such conditions to be abated or corrected either by removal, repair, rehabilitation, disposal or other approved corrective action in compliance with this code.
SECTION 4102—PORTABLE ELECTRIC HEATING APPLIANCES
4102.1 Portable, electric space heaters. Where not prohibited by other sections of this code, portable, electric space heaters shall be permitted to be used in all occupancies in accordance with Sections 4102.1.1 through 4102.1.5.
4102.1.1 Listed and labeled. Only listed and labeled portable, electric space heaters shall be used.
4102.1.2 Power supply. Portable, electric space heaters shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle.
4102.1.3 Extension cords. Portable, electric space heaters shall not be plugged into extension cords.
4102.1.4 Prohibited areas. Portable, electric space heaters shall not be operated within 3 feet (914 mm) of any combustible materials. Portable, electric space heaters shall be operated only in locations for which they are listed.
4102.1.5 Group I-2 occupancies and ambulatory care facilities. Where used in Group I-2 and ambulatory care facilities, portable, electric space heaters shall be limited to those having a heating element that cannot exceed a temperature of 212°F (100°C), and such heaters shall only be used in nonsleeping staff and employee areas.
SECTION 4103—PORTABLE FUEL-FIRED HEATING APPLIANCES
4103.1 Portable unvented heaters. Portable unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall be prohibited in occupancies in Groups A, E, I, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-2.2, R-3 , R-3.1 and R-4 and ambulatory care facilities.
Exceptions:
- Portable unvented fuel-fired heaters listed and labeled in accordance with UL 647 are permitted to be used in one- and two-family dwellings, where operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances in accordance with Section 4103.1.2.
4103.1.1 Prohibited locations. Unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall not be located in, or obtain combustion air from, any of the following rooms or spaces: sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms or storage closets.
CFC § 4104.5.1 High relevance — show source text
4104.5.1 Groups of cooking tents. Cooking tents shall be permitted to be placed side by side where the following conditions are met:
- The area of the cooking tents has a maximum area of 700 square feet (65 m [2] ).
- Each grouping of tents shall have a fire break clearance of at least 12 feet (3658 mm).
- A fire access aisle separating rows of cooking tents has a minimum width of 16 feet (4877 mm) clear.
4104.6 Operations. Operations such as warming of foods, cooking demonstrations and similar operations that use solid flammables, butane or other similar devices that do not pose an ignition hazard, shall be approved.
SECTION 4105—PORTABLE ELECTRIC COOKING APPLIANCES
4105.1 Portable electric cooking appliances. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be permitted to be used in all occupancies in accordance with Sections 4105.1.1 through 4105.1.5.
4105.1.1 Listed and labeled. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be listed and labeled and shall be used in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
4105.1.2 Power supply. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle or connected to a relocatable power tap rated 20 amps (2400 W).
4105.1.3 Extension cords. Portable electric cooking appliances shall not be plugged into extension cords.
4105.1.4 Temporary connections. Where portable electric cooking appliances are used for temporary operations, the appliance shall be disconnected from the power supply when not in use.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 41-5
**
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
4105.1.5 Prohibited areas. Portable electric cooking appliances shall not be operated within 3 feet (914 mm) of any combustible materials or in Group H occupancies. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be operated only in locations for which they are listed.
SECTION 4106— RESERVED
41-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CHAPTERS
42– 47 RESERVED
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 42-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
42-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 48 – MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO
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.)
CFC § 4105.1.3 High relevance — show source text
4105.1.3 Extension cords. Portable electric cooking appliances shall not be plugged into extension cords.
4105.1.4 Temporary connections. Where portable electric cooking appliances are used for temporary operations, the appliance shall be disconnected from the power supply when not in use.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 41-5
**
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
4105.1.5 Prohibited areas. Portable electric cooking appliances shall not be operated within 3 feet (914 mm) of any combustible materials or in Group H occupancies. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be operated only in locations for which they are listed.
SECTION 4106— RESERVED
41-6 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CHAPTERS
42– 47 RESERVED
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 42-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
42-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 48 – MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION STUDIO
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 CFC § 4103.1.2.3.4 High relevance — show source text
4103.1.2.3.4 Indoor storage prohibited. Gas containers shall not be stored inside of buildings except in accordance with Section 6109.9.
SECTION 4104—PORTABLE FUEL-FIRED COOKING APPLIANCES
4104.1 Portable fuel-fired cooking appliances. Portable fuel-fired cooking appliances shall be permitted to be used in all occupancies in accordance with this section.
4104.2 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
- One- and two-family dwellings.
- Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
- LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2 [1] / 2 pounds [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity].
4104.3 Indoor cooking. Portable fuel-fired cooking appliances used indoors shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of exits or combustible materials.
4104.4 Cooking operations. Cooking that produces sparks or grease-laden vapors shall not be performed within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a tent or membrane structure except where the following conditions are met:
- Cooking devices shall be isolated from the public.
- Cooking devices shall be maintained and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Exception: Designated cooking tents with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
4104.5 Separation of cooking tents. Tents with sidewalls or drops where cooking is performed shall be separated from other noncooking tents or membrane structures by not less than 10 feet (3048 mm). Exception: Small tents limited to 100 square feet (9.3 m [2] ) that are accessory to the cooking operations of the cooking tent and are not occupied by the public.
4104.5.1 Groups of cooking tents. Cooking tents shall be permitted to be placed side by side where the following conditions are met:
- The area of the cooking tents has a maximum area of 700 square feet (65 m [2] ).
- Each grouping of tents shall have a fire break clearance of at least 12 feet (3658 mm).
- A fire access aisle separating rows of cooking tents has a minimum width of 16 feet (4877 mm) clear.
4104.6 Operations. Operations such as warming of foods, cooking demonstrations and similar operations that use solid flammables, butane or other similar devices that do not pose an ignition hazard, shall be approved.
SECTION 4105—PORTABLE ELECTRIC COOKING APPLIANCES
4105.1 Portable electric cooking appliances. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be permitted to be used in all occupancies in accordance with Sections 4105.1.1 through 4105.1.5.
4105.1.1 Listed and labeled. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be listed and labeled and shall be used in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
4105.1.2 Power supply. Portable electric cooking appliances shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle or connected to a relocatable power tap rated 20 amps (2400 W).
4105.1.3 Extension cords. Portable electric cooking appliances shall not be plugged into extension cords.
CFC § 4101.6.2 High relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §325] Liquefied Petroleum Gas.
Liquefied petroleum gas shall not be stored or used in connection with any tent unless the storage containers, equipment, fittings, appliances, placement, use and operation complies with the provisions of California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Article 5, Subchap- ter 1, Chapter 4.
4101.6.2 Location of containers. LP-gas containers and tanks shall be located outside in accordance with Table 6104.3. Pressure relief devices shall be pointed away from the tent or membrane structure.
4101.6.3 Protection and security. Portable LP-gas containers, tanks, piping, valves and fittings that are located outside and are being used to fuel equipment inside a tent or membrane structure shall be adequately protected to prevent tampering, damage by vehicles or other hazards and shall be located in an approved location. Portable LP-gas containers shall be secured to prevent unauthorized movement.
4101.6.4 Refueling. Exchanging of LP containers shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 61. Liquid transfer of LP gas shall be in accordance with Chapter 7 of NFPA 58.
4101.7 Oil-fired heaters. Oil-fired cooking and heating equipment shall comply with Section 605 and this chapter.
4101.8 Refueling of flammable and combustible liquid-fueled equipment. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or devices shall be conducted in accordance with Section 5705 and all of the following:
Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or devices shall be conducted by trained personnel in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and this code.
The equipment or device shall be turned off and allowed to cool prior to refueling.
Operations shall be conducted in a well-ventilated area at a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from any building or structure.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 41-3
**
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
**
**
TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
4101.9 Cooking operations. Portable cooking equipment using combustible oils or solids shall comply with all of the following:
- A noncombustible lid shall be immediately available. The lid shall be of sufficient size to cover the cooking well completely.
- Equipment shall be placed on a noncombustible surface.
- A portable fire extinguisher for protection appropriate to the cooking media shall be provided at a location approved by the fire code official.
4101.10 Hazard abatement. Operations or conditions deemed unsafe or hazardous by the fire code official shall be abated. Equipment and devices that are modified or damaged and constitute an electrical shock or fire hazard shall not be used.
4101.10.1 Correction of unsafe conditions. The fire code official shall be authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator or user of the equipment to abate unsafe operations or conditions or cause such conditions to be abated or corrected either by removal, repair, rehabilitation, disposal or other approved corrective action in compliance with this code.
SECTION 4102—PORTABLE ELECTRIC HEATING APPLIANCES
4102.1 Portable, electric space heaters. Where not prohibited by other sections of this code, portable, electric space heaters shall be permitted to be used in all occupancies in accordance with Sections 4102.1.1 through 4102.1.5.
CFC § 420.6.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Spaces having a direct exit to a public way.
420.6.2 Refuge area. Refuge areas shall be provided within each smoke compartment. The size of the refuge area shall accommodate the occupants and care recipients from the adjoining smoke compartment. Where a smoke compartment is adjoined by two or more smoke compartments, the minimum area of the refuge area shall accommodate the largest occupant load of the adjoining compartments. The size of the refuge area shall provide the following:
- Not less than 15 net square feet (1.4 m [2] ) for each care recipient.
- Not less than 6 net square feet (0.56 m [2] ) for other occupants.
Areas or spaces permitted to be included in the calculation of the refuge area are corridors, lounge or dining areas and other low-hazard areas.
420.7 Reserved.
420.8 Reserved.
420.9 Domestic cooking appliances. In Group R-2.1 occupancies, installation of cooking appliance used in domestic cooking facilities shall comply with all of the following:
- The types of cooking appliances permitted shall be limited to ovens, cooktops, ranges, warmers and microwaves.
- Domestic cooking hoods installed and constructed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code shall be provided over cooktops or ranges.
- Cooktops and ranges shall be protected in accordance with Section 904.15.
- A shutoff for the fuel and electrical supply to the cooking equipment shall be provided in a location to which only staff has
access.
A timer shall be provided that automatically deactivates the cooking appliances within a period of not more than 120 minutes.
A portable fire extinguisher shall be provided. Installation shall be in accordance with Section 906 and the extinguisher shall be located within a 30-foot (9144 mm) distance of travel from each domestic cooking appliance.
Exceptions:
- Cooking facilities provided within care recipients’ individual dwelling units are not required to comply with this section.
- Cooktops and ranges used for care-recipient training or nutritional counseling are not required to comply with Item 3 of this section.
420.10 Group R cooking facilities. In Group R occupancies, cooking appliances used for domestic cooking operations shall be in accordance with the California Mechanical Code .
420.11 Group R-2 dormitory cooking facilities. Domestic cooking appliances for use by residents of Group R-2 college dormitories shall be in accordance with Sections 420.11.1 and 420.11.2.
420.11.1 Cooking appliances. Where located in Group R-2 college dormitories, domestic cooking appliances for use by residents shall be in compliance with all of the following:
The types of domestic cooking appliances shall be limited to ovens, cooktops, ranges, warmers, coffee makers and microwaves.
Domestic cooking appliances shall be limited to approved locations.
Cooktops and ranges shall be protected in accordance with Section 904.15.
Cooktops and ranges shall be provided with a domestic cooking hood installed and constructed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code . Kitchen range hoods shall also be rated for sound and meet field verification requirements in the California Energy Code for low-rise and high-rise residential buildings.
420.11.2 Cooking appliances in sleeping rooms. Cooktops, ranges and ovens shall not be installed or used in sleeping rooms.
CFC § 40-3 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 40 STORAGE OF DISTILLED SPIRITS
AND WINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40-3
4001 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-3
4002 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-3
4003 Precautions Against Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-3 4004 Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-4
4005 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-4
4006 Signage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40-10
CHAPTER 41 TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING
OPERATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41-3
4101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-3
4102 Portable Electric Heating Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-4 4103 Portable Fuel-Fired Heating Appliances. . . . . . . . . . 41-4 4104 Portable Fuel-Fired Cooking Appliances . . . . . . . . . 41-5 4105 Portable Electric Cooking Appliances. . . . . . . . . . . . 41-5 4106 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-6
CHAPTERS 42– 47 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-1
CHAPTER 48 MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION
STUDIO SOUND STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILI- TIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3
4801 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3
4802 _Occupancy Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CFC § 41-4 Medium relevance — show source text
4102 Portable Electric Heating Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-4 4103 Portable Fuel-Fired Heating Appliances. . . . . . . . . . 41-4 4104 Portable Fuel-Fired Cooking Appliances . . . . . . . . . 41-5 4105 Portable Electric Cooking Appliances. . . . . . . . . . . . 41-5 4106 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41-6
CHAPTERS 42– 47 RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-1
CHAPTER 48 MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION
STUDIO SOUND STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION FACILI- TIES AND PRODUCTION LOCATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3
4801 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3
4802 Occupancy Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3 4803 Required Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3 4804 General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-3 4805 Fire-Extinguishing Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-4 4806 Fire Detection Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-4 4807 Fire Safety Officers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-4 4808 Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-4 4809 _Mechanical Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CFC § 6.4 Medium relevance — show source text
(1) The underside of the combustible material or metal cabinet above the cooking top is protected with not less than [1] ⁄ 4 of an inch (6.4 mm) insulating millboard covered with sheet metal not less than 0.0122 of an inch (0.3099 mm) thick.
(2) A metal ventilating hood of sheet metal not less than 0.0122 of an inch (0.3099 mm) thick is installed above the cooking top with a clearance of not less than [1] ⁄ 4 of an inch (6.4 mm) between the hood and the underside of the combustible material or metal
cabinet, and the hood is not less than the width of the appliance and is centered over the appliance.
(3) A listed cooking appliance or microwave oven installed over a listed cooking appliance shall be in accordance with the terms of the upper appliance’s listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. {NFPA 54:10.13.3.1} Microwave ovens shall comply with UL 923.
919.5 Built-In Units. Built-in units shall be installed in accor dance with Section 919.5.1 and Section 919.5.2.
919.5.1 Installation. Listed built-in household cooking appliances shall be installed in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The installation shall not interfere with combustion air, accessibility for operation, and servicing. Unlisted builtin household cooking appliances shall not be installed in or adjacent to combustible material.
919.5.2 Vertical Clearance Above Cooking Top. Built-in top (or surface) cooking appliances shall have a vertical clearance above the cooking top of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) to combustible material or metal cabinets. A clearance of not less than 24 inches (610 mm) is permitted where one of the following is installed:
(1) The underside of the combustible material or metal cabinet above the cooking top is protected with not less than [1] ⁄ 4 of an inch (6.4 mm) insulating millboard covered with sheet metal not less than 0.0122 of an inch (0.3099 mm) thick.
(2) A metal ventilating hood of sheet metal not less than 0.0122 of an inch (0.3099 mm) thick is installed above the cooking top with a clearance of not less
«
««
«
«
««
««
««
than [1] ⁄ 4 of an inch (6.4 mm) between the hood and the underside of the combustible material or metal
cabinet, and the hood not less than the width of the appliance and is centered over the appliance.
(3) A listed cooking appliance or microwave oven installed over a listed cooking appliance shall be in accordance with the terms of the upper appliance’s listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Microwave ovens shall comply with UL 923.
919.6 Level Installation. Cooking appliances shall be installed so that the cooking top, broiler pan, or oven racks are level. [NFPA 54-2018:10.14.3]
920.0 Cooking Appliance Listings.
920.1 Commercial Electric Ranges. Commercial electric ranges shall comply with UL 197 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CFC § 4103.1 Medium relevance — show source text
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)X Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section [T-19 §325] X 4103.1 X 4106 Reserved 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 41-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
41-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
41 TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 41 provides all requirements relative to temporary heating and cooking operations, including mobile food trucks, in a single chapter. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many fire and building officials found that the code requirements surrounding temporary heating and cooking, especially in tents and canopies, were disjointed and often confusing when spread across Chapters 3, 6 and 31. In addition, some types of heating and cooking appliances were not adequately covered. This chapter is intended to facilitate consistent enforcement of temporary heating and cooking operations by making the requirements more straightforward. This chapter does not address temporary heating on construction sites as it was felt that having all requirements for fire safety during construction in the same location was necessary.
SECTION 4101—GENERAL
CFC § 4102.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text
4102.1.2 Power supply. Portable, electric space heaters shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle.
4102.1.3 Extension cords. Portable, electric space heaters shall not be plugged into extension cords.
4102.1.4 Prohibited areas. Portable, electric space heaters shall not be operated within 3 feet (914 mm) of any combustible materials. Portable, electric space heaters shall be operated only in locations for which they are listed.
4102.1.5 Group I-2 occupancies and ambulatory care facilities. Where used in Group I-2 and ambulatory care facilities, portable, electric space heaters shall be limited to those having a heating element that cannot exceed a temperature of 212°F (100°C), and such heaters shall only be used in nonsleeping staff and employee areas.
SECTION 4103—PORTABLE FUEL-FIRED HEATING APPLIANCES
4103.1 Portable unvented heaters. Portable unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall be prohibited in occupancies in Groups A, E, I, R-1, R-2, R-2.1, R-2.2, R-3 , R-3.1 and R-4 and ambulatory care facilities.
Exceptions:
- Portable unvented fuel-fired heaters listed and labeled in accordance with UL 647 are permitted to be used in one- and two-family dwellings, where operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances in accordance with Section 4103.1.2.
4103.1.1 Prohibited locations. Unvented fuel-fired heating equipment shall not be located in, or obtain combustion air from, any of the following rooms or spaces: sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms or storage closets.
4103.1.2 Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances. Portable gas-fired heating appliances located outdoors shall be in accordance with Sections 4103.1.2.1 through 4103.1.2.3.4.
4103.1.2.1 Location. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be used and located in accordance with Sections 4103.1.2.1.1 through 4103.1.2.1.4.
4103.1.2.1.1 Prohibited locations. The storage or use of portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances is prohibited in any of the following locations:
Inside of any occupancy where connected to the fuel gas container.
Inside of tents, canopies and membrane structures.
On exterior balconies.
Exception: As permitted in Chapter 61.
4103.1.2.1.2 Clearance to buildings. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from buildings.
4103.1.2.1.3 Clearance to combustible materials. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not be located beneath, or closer than 5 feet (1524 mm) to combustible decorations and combustible overhangs, awnings, sunshades or similar combustible attachments to buildings.
4103.1.2.1.4 Proximity to exits. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not be located within 5 feet (1524 mm) of exits or exit discharges.
4103.1.2.2 Use and operation. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be used and operated in accordance with Sections 4103.1.2.2.1 through 4103.1.2.2.4.
CFC § 4103.1.2.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
4103.1.2.2.1 Listing and approval. Only listed and approved portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances utilizing a fuel gas container that is integral to the appliance shall be used. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ANSI Z83.26/CSA 2.37.
4103.1.2.2.2 Use and maintenance. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be used and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
41-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS
4103.1.2.2.3 Tip-over switch. Portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be equipped with a tilt or tip-over switch that automatically shuts off the flow of gas if the appliance is tilted more than 15 degrees (0.26 rad) from the vertical.
4103.1.2.2.4 Guard against contact. The heating element or combustion chamber of portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall be permanently guarded so as to prevent accidental contact by persons or material.
4103.1.2.3 Gas containers. Fuel gas containers for portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall comply with Sections 4103.1.2.3.1 through 4103.1.2.3.4.
4103.1.2.3.1 Approved containers. Only approved DOTn or ASME gas containers shall be used.
4103.1.2.3.2 Container replacement. Replacement of fuel gas containers in portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not be conducted while the public is present.
4103.1.2.3.3 Container capacity. The maximum individual capacity of gas containers used in connection with portable outdoor gas-fired heating appliances shall not exceed 20 pounds (9 kg).
4103.1.2.3.4 Indoor storage prohibited. Gas containers shall not be stored inside of buildings except in accordance with Section 6109.9.
SECTION 4104—PORTABLE FUEL-FIRED COOKING APPLIANCES
4104.1 Portable fuel-fired cooking appliances. Portable fuel-fired cooking appliances shall be permitted to be used in all occupancies in accordance with this section.
4104.2 Open-flame cooking devices. Charcoal burners and other open-flame cooking devices shall not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet (3048 mm) of combustible construction.
Exceptions:
- One- and two-family dwellings.
- Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
- LP-gas cooking devices having LP-gas container with a water capacity not greater than 2 [1] / 2 pounds [nominal 1 pound (0.454 kg) LP-gas capacity].
4104.3 Indoor cooking. Portable fuel-fired cooking appliances used indoors shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of exits or combustible materials.
4104.4 Cooking operations. Cooking that produces sparks or grease-laden vapors shall not be performed within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a tent or membrane structure except where the following conditions are met:
- Cooking devices shall be isolated from the public.
- Cooking devices shall be maintained and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Exception: Designated cooking tents with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a power strip or extension cord with a portable electric griddle?
No. § 4105.1.3 expressly prohibits plugging portable electric cooking appliances into extension cords. Use an approved receptacle or other code‑permitted connection methods elsewhere in the code.
Do I need to unplug the appliance between service periods at a temporary event?
Yes. § 4105.1.4 requires that appliances used for temporary operations be disconnected from the power supply when not in use.
How far must the appliance be from combustible materials?
Keep portable electric cooking appliances at least 3 feet (914 mm) away from combustible materials according to § 4105.1.5.
Are there exceptions for small or low‑power appliances?
No exceptions are specified within § 4105.1 through § 4105.1.5; all portable electric cooking appliances covered by those sections must meet the same listed requirements. Check other code sections for appliance‑specific allowances.
Can I operate a portable electric fryer inside a Group H building?
No. § 4105.1.5 prohibits operation of portable electric cooking appliances in Group H occupancies.
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