CFC · California Fire Code

What requirements apply to portable fuel-fired heating and cooking appliances?

Portable fuel‑fired heaters and cooking devices are allowed only if they are listed for the use, placed with required clearances (portable outdoor heaters: 5 ft from buildings/exits; open‑flame cooking: 10 ft from combustibles), use approved containers (max 20 lb for many outdoor heaters), and have required safety features (tip‑over shutoff, guarding); many unvented heaters are outright prohibited in specified occupancies — consult **§ 4103** and **§ 4104** and the appliance listing/manufacturer instructions before use.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Portable fuel‑fired heating and cooking appliances are allowed only when they meet the listing/labeling, location and clearance, fuel‑container, and operational controls specified in § 4103 and § 4104 of the California Fire Code. Portable unvented heaters are broadly prohibited in most assembly, institutional and many residential occupancies unless a narrow exception applies; portable outdoor gas heaters and portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances are allowed subject to specific clearances, container limits and guarding/listing requirements. See § 4103 and § 4104 for the controlling language.

The single most important practical rule: portable fuel‑fired appliances are allowed only where they are listed for that use and located with the clearances, container limits and safety devices the code requires (see § 4103 and § 4104).

Requirements in detail

Scope and listing

  • Equipment must be listed and labeled and used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; temporary/mobile fuel‑fired devices follow the general requirements of Chapter 41. § 4101.3 requires listed equipment and adherence to listing/manufacturer instructions.

Portable fuel‑fired heating — principal rules (§ 4103)

  • Portable unvented fuel‑fired heaters are prohibited in Groups A, E, I, R‑1, R‑2, R‑2.1, R‑2.2, R‑3, R‑3.1 and R‑4 and in ambulatory care facilities unless an explicit exception applies. § 4103.1.

    • Exception: unvented heaters listed to UL 647 are permitted in one‑ and two‑family dwellings when used per manufacturer instructions. § 4103.1 Exception 1.

  • Unvented heaters must not be located in, or obtain combustion air from, sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms or storage closets. § 4103.1.1.

  • Portable outdoor gas‑fired heating appliances have a separate set of requirements in § 4103.1.2 (location, listing, fuel container rules, tip‑over devices, guarding). Key items:

    • Location: Not less than 5 feet from buildings and not within 5 feet of exits or exit discharges; not under or closer than 5 feet to combustible decorations/overhangs. § 4103.1.2.1.2–.1.4.
    • Listing: Only appliances listed to ANSI Z83.26/CSA 2.37 (appliances with integral fuel container) are permitted. § 4103.1.2.2.1.
    • Tip‑over shutoff: A tilt or tip‑over switch that stops gas flow if tilted more than 15 degrees is required. § 4103.1.2.2.3.
    • Guarding: Heating element or combustion chamber must be permanently guarded to prevent accidental contact. § 4103.1.2.2.4.
    • Gas containers: Only approved DOT or ASME containers; maximum individual container capacity not to exceed 20 pounds (9 kg); replacement of containers must not be conducted while the public is present; indoor storage is prohibited except as allowed by Chapter 61. § 4103.1.2.3.1–.3.4.

Portable fuel‑fired cooking — principal rules (§ 4104)

  • Portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances are permitted in all occupancies subject to the rules in § 4104.

  • Open‑flame cooking devices (charcoal burners and the like) must not be operated on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction. § 4104.2. Exceptions include one‑ and two‑family dwellings, buildings with sprinkler protection, or certain small LP‑gas container devices.

  • Indoor location: Portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances used indoors must be located not within 10 feet of exits or combustible materials. § 4104.3.

  • Cooking near tents/membrane structures: Cooking that produces sparks or grease‑laden vapors must not be within 10 feet of a tent or membrane structure unless cooking devices are isolated from the public and used per manufacturer instructions; designated cooking tents with an automatic sprinkler installed per § 903.3.1.1 are an exception. § 4104.4.

  • Cooking tents separation and layout: Tents where cooking occurs must be separated from other noncooking tents by not less than 10 feet; grouped cooking tents can be placed side‑by‑side only where all conditions of § 4104.5.1 are met: maximum cooking‑tent area 700 sq ft, fire‑break clearance 12 feet, and fire access aisle 16 feet clear. § 4104.5–.5.1.

Quick reference table (decision‑relevant values)

Appliance / situation Key dimension / limit Required safety feature or condition Code Reference
Portable unvented fuel‑fired heaters (general) Prohibited in many occupancies (Groups A, E, I, R‑1, R‑2, R‑2.1, R‑2.2, R‑3, R‑3.1, R‑4, ambulatory care) Prohibited except narrow UL‑647 exception for 1‑ & 2‑family dwellings § 4103.1
Portable unvented heater locations Must not be in sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms, storage closets Location limitation § 4103.1.1
Portable outdoor gas heaters — clearance to buildings/exits 5 feet Minimum distance from buildings, combustible attachments, and exits § 4103.1.2.1.2–.1.4
Portable outdoor gas heaters — container capacity 20 lb (9 kg) max per container Approved DOT/ASME container; replacement not while public present; indoor storage prohibited § 4103.1.2.3.3 and § 4103.1.2.3.1–.3.4
Tip‑over protection for portable outdoor gas heaters 15 degrees tilt threshold Tilt/tip switch that shuts off gas § 4103.1.2.2.3
Open‑flame cooking (charcoal, grills) on balconies / near combustibles 10 feet Prohibited on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction (exceptions apply) § 4104.2
Indoor placement of portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances 10 feet from exits or combustible materials Minimum clearance § 4104.3
Cooking tent grouping Max 700 sq ft per cooking tent group; fire break 12 ft; access aisle 16 ft Layout and access controls § 4104.5.1

Use, maintenance, and supervision

  • All portable fuel‑fired equipment must be used and maintained per manufacturer instructions and the listing. § 4101.3 & § 4103.1.2.2.2.
  • Equipment must be attended while in use and until cooled. § 4101.4.2.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Unvented heaters listed to UL 647: permitted in one‑ and two‑family dwellings when used per the manufacturer (Exception to § 4103.1).
  • Portable outdoor gas heaters may be used outdoors in accordance with § 4103.1.2; note that exterior balconies are an explicit prohibited location for their use unless allowed by Chapter 61. § 4103.1.2.1.1 and § 4103.1.2.1.3.
  • Open‑flame cooking on combustible balconies has exceptions for one‑ and two‑family dwellings and where automatic sprinkler protection is present (see § 4104.2).

If a specific appliance or situation is not directly covered in § 4103 or § 4104 text retrieved here, the code requires reliance on the appliance listing, the manufacturer’s instructions, and the fire code official’s approval — do not assume an unstated allowance.

Common mistakes

  • Treating “portable outdoor” heaters as OK anywhere outdoors — they still require 5 ft clearances from buildings, combustible attachments and exits per § 4103.1.2.1.2–.1.4.
  • Using unvented fuel‑fired heaters in prohibited occupancies (assembly, institutional, many multiunit residential occupancies) — check § 4103.1 before permitting use.
  • Assuming small LP tanks are unconstrained — portable outdoor heaters are limited to 20 lb containers and other LP use rules (storage, replacement, indoor storage prohibition) apply; see § 4103.1.2.3.
  • Placing open‑flame cooking devices on combustible balconies or within 10 ft of combustible construction without verifying exceptions (see § 4104.2).
  • Forgetting required safeguards (tilt shutoff, guarding) for portable outdoor gas heaters — required by § 4103.1.2.2.3–.2.4.

Worked example

Scenario: A restaurant operator wants to use a portable outdoor propane patio heater next to the dining area on a concrete pad adjacent to the building.

Apply the rules:

  • Is the appliance listed? Verify it is listed and labeled to ANSI Z83.26/CSA 2.37 (required by § 4103.1.2.2.1). If not listed, it is not permitted.
  • Location clearances: Place the heater at least 5 feet from the building face and at least 5 feet from any exit discharge or combustible overhang/decorations (required by § 4103.1.2.1.2–.1.3). If the desired location is only 3 feet from the building, the heater must be moved to meet the 5‑foot minimum.
  • Fuel container: Ensure the appliance uses an approved DOT or ASME container and that the container capacity is ≤ 20 lb (individual container limit). § 4103.1.2.3.1 & .3.3. If staff plan to swap cylinders while the public is present, that is not allowed.
  • Safety features: Confirm the heater has a tip‑over switch that shuts off gas if tilted > 15 degrees and that the combustion chamber is guarded against accidental contact (§ 4103.1.2.2.3–.2.4).
  • Operation & maintenance: Use and maintain per manufacturer instructions and attend the appliance while in use (§ 4101.3, § 4101.4.2).

If all of the above are satisfied, the heater may be used in that outdoor dining area; if any element is missing (e.g., not listed, closer than 5 ft, oversized cylinder) the appliance must be relocated, replaced or removed.

Related provisions

  • § 4102 — Portable electric heating appliances (related electrical/heater prohibitions).
  • § 4101 — General Chapter 41 requirements (listing, attendance, extinguishers, LP‑gas basics).
  • § 4104 — Portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances (clearances, tents, cooking tents layout).
  • § 4103.1.2 — Detailed requirements for portable outdoor gas‑fired heating appliances (location, listing, tip‑over, containers).
  • § 906 — Portable fire extinguisher sizing and placement for cooking operations (Class K requirements for cooking oils/fats).

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:

    1. A noncombustible lid shall be immediately available. The lid shall be of sufficient size to cover the cooking well completely.
    2. Equipment shall be placed on a noncombustible surface.
    3. 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:

    1. 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.
    2. 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 § 4103.1.2.2.1 High 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:

    1. One- and two-family dwellings.
    2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
    3. 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:

    1. Cooking devices shall be isolated from the public.
    2. 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.

  • 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:

    1. One- and two-family dwellings.
    2. Where buildings, balconies and decks are protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
    3. 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:

    1. Cooking devices shall be isolated from the public.
    2. 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:

    1. The area of the cooking tents has a maximum area of 700 square feet (65 m [2] ).
    2. Each grouping of tents shall have a fire break clearance of at least 12 feet (3658 mm).
    3. 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 § 4102.1.2 High 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:

    1. 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.
    2. 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:

    1. Inside of any occupancy where connected to the fuel gas container.

    2. Inside of tents, canopies and membrane structures.

    3. 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 High relevance — show source text

    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:

    1. Inside of any occupancy where connected to the fuel gas container.

    2. Inside of tents, canopies and membrane structures.

    3. 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.

    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.

  • CFC § 4101.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Temporary heating devices used in the course of construction, alteration and demolition of structures shall comply with Section 3304.

    4101.2 Permits. Operational permits shall be obtained as set forth in Section 105.5.

    4101.3 Listed equipment. Mobile and portable equipment and devices used for temporary heating and cooking shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance and use of equipment and devices shall be in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.

    4101.4 Operation and maintenance. The building owner or the equipment owner/operator shall operate and maintain the equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating instructions and this section.

    4101.4.1 Wildfire risk area. Temporary heating and cooking operations shall be in accordance with applicable local wildfire risk area regulations.

    4101.4.2 Attendance. Mobile and portable heating and cooking equipment shall be constantly attended while in use and until cooled to a safe temperature.

    4101.4.3 Fire extinguishers. Not fewer than one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment shall be available for immediate utilization.

    4101.5 Electrical heating and cooking equipment. Electrical cooking and heating equipment shall comply with the California Elec- trical Code .

    4101.6 LP-gas. The storage, handling and use of LP-gas and LP-gas equipment shall be in accordance with Sections 4101.6.1 through 4101.6.3.

    4101.6.1 General. LP-gas equipment such as containers, tanks, piping, hoses, fittings, valves, tubing and other related components shall be approved and in accordance with Chapter 61 and with the International Fuel Gas Code .

    [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:

    1. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or devices shall be conducted by trained personnel in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and this code.
  • CFC § 420.6.2 High 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:

    1. Not less than 15 net square feet (1.4 m [2] ) for each care recipient.
    2. 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:

    1. The types of cooking appliances permitted shall be limited to ovens, cooktops, ranges, warmers and microwaves.
    2. Domestic cooking hoods installed and constructed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code shall be provided over cooktops or ranges.
    3. Cooktops and ranges shall be protected in accordance with Section 904.15.
    4. A shutoff for the fuel and electrical supply to the cooking equipment shall be provided in a location to which only staff has

    access.

    1. A timer shall be provided that automatically deactivates the cooking appliances within a period of not more than 120 minutes.

    2. 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:

    1. Cooking facilities provided within care recipients’ individual dwelling units are not required to comply with this section.
    2. 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:

    1. The types of domestic cooking appliances shall be limited to ovens, cooktops, ranges, warmers, coffee makers and microwaves.

    2. Domestic cooking appliances shall be limited to approved locations.

    3. Cooktops and ranges shall be protected in accordance with Section 904.15.

    4. 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 § 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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 41-1

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    41-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    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

    4101.1 General. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the use, operation, testing and maintenance of mobile and portable equipment and devices used for temporary heating and cooking. Temporary heating and cooking operations with open flames shall also comply with any additional applicable requirements in Section 308.

    Exception: Temporary heating devices used in the course of construction, alteration and demolition of structures shall comply with Section 3304.

    4101.2 Permits. Operational permits shall be obtained as set forth in Section 105.5.

    4101.3 Listed equipment. Mobile and portable equipment and devices used for temporary heating and cooking shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance and use of equipment and devices shall be in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.

    4101.4 Operation and maintenance. The building owner or the equipment owner/operator shall operate and maintain the equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s operating instructions and this section.

    4101.4.1 Wildfire risk area. Temporary heating and cooking operations shall be in accordance with applicable local wildfire risk area regulations.

    4101.4.2 Attendance. Mobile and portable heating and cooking equipment shall be constantly attended while in use and until cooled to a safe temperature.

    4101.4.3 Fire extinguishers. Not fewer than one portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4-A rating or other approved on-site fire-extinguishing equipment shall be available for immediate utilization.

    4101.5 Electrical heating and cooking equipment. Electrical cooking and heating equipment shall comply with the California Elec- trical Code .

    4101.6 LP-gas. The storage, handling and use of LP-gas and LP-gas equipment shall be in accordance with Sections 4101.6.1 through 4101.6.3.

  • CFC § 41-4 High 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 § 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:

    1. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or devices shall be conducted by trained personnel in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and this code.

    2. The equipment or device shall be turned off and allowed to cool prior to refueling.

    3. Operations shall be conducted in a well-ventilated area at a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) from any building or structure.

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    TEMPORARY HEATING AND COOKING OPERATIONS

    4101.9 Cooking operations. Portable cooking equipment using combustible oils or solids shall comply with all of the following:

    1. A noncombustible lid shall be immediately available. The lid shall be of sufficient size to cover the cooking well completely.
    2. Equipment shall be placed on a noncombustible surface.
    3. 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 § 40-3 High 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 § 902.2. Medium relevance — show source text

    (2) Where approved, one listed wall-mounted unvented room heater equipped with an oxygen depletion safety shutoff system shall be permitted to be installed in a bedroom, provided that the input rating does not exceed 10 000 Btu/h (3 kW) and combustion and ventilation air is provided as specified in Section 902.2. [NFPA 54:10.21.2]

    (3) Portable oil fired unvented heating appliances used as supplemental heating in storage occupancies, utility occupancies, and in accordance with the fire code.

    [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Unvented fuel-burning room heaters shall not be installed, used, maintained, or permitted to exist in a Group R Occupancy.

    915.3.2 Installations in Institutions. Room heaters shall not be installed in the following occupancies:

    (1) Residential board and care

    (2) Health care [NFPA 54:10.21.3] 915.3.3 Clearance. A room heater shall be placed so as not to cause a hazard to walls, floors, curtains, furniture, doors where open, and to the free movements of persons within the room. Heaters designed and marked, “For use in noncombustible fireplace only,” shall not be installed elsewhere. Listed room heaters shall be installed in accordance with their listings and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. In no case shall the clearances be

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 207

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    INSTALLATION OF SPECIFIC APPLIANCES

    (1) A listed unit heater shall be installed with clearances from combustible material at the back and one side of not less than 6 inches (152 mm). Where the flue gases are vented horizontally, the 6 inch (152 mm) clearance shall be measured from the draft hood or

    vent instead of the rear wall of the unit heater. A unit

    heater listed for reduced clearances shall be installed in accordance with its listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    (2) Floor-mounted-type unit heaters installed on combustible floors shall be listed for such installation.

    (3) Combustible floors under unlisted floor-mounted unit heaters shall be protected in an approved man ner.

    (4) Clearances for servicing shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

    916.4 Combustion and Circulating Air. Combustion and circulating air shall be provided in accordance with Section 701.0. [NFPA 54:10.24.4]

    916.5 Ductwork. A unit heater shall not be attached to a warm air duct system unless listed and marked for such installation. [NFPA 54:10.24.5] 916.6 Installation in Commercial Garages and Air- craft Hangars. Unit heaters installed in garages for more than three motor vehicles or in aircraft hangars shall be installed in accordance with Section 303.11 and Section 303.12. [NFPA 54:10.24.6]

    916.7 Oil-Fired Unit Heaters. Oil-fired unit heaters shall comply with UL 731 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    917.0 Food Service Appliance, Floor-Mounted. 917.1 Application. Floor-mounted food service appliances shall be listed in accordance with ANSI Z83.11/CSA 1.8.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a portable unvented gas heater in my apartment building?

No. Unvented fuel‑fired heaters are prohibited in most multiunit and many other occupancies listed in § 4103.1, except a narrow UL‑647 exception for one‑ and two‑family dwellings.

What is the required clearance from a building for a portable outdoor gas heater?

Portable outdoor gas heaters must be located not less than 5 feet from buildings (and not within 5 feet of exits or combustible overhangs) per § 4103.1.2.1.2–.1.4.

How large can the propane cylinder be on a portable outdoor heater?

The maximum individual capacity for containers used with portable outdoor gas‑fired heating appliances is 20 pounds (9 kg) per § 4103.1.2.3.3.

Can I grill on my combustible balcony?

Generally no—charcoal burners and other open‑flame cooking devices are not allowed on combustible balconies or within 10 feet of combustible construction, with limited exceptions (one‑ and two‑family dwellings, sprinklered buildings, or certain small LP devices). See § 4104.2.

Are there special rules for cooking near tents?

Yes. Cooking that produces sparks or grease‑laden vapors must be at least 10 feet from tents unless cooking devices are isolated and used per manufacturer instructions; designated cooking tents with automatic sprinklers are allowed under § 4104.4.

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Temporary heating and cooking operations (Chapter 41)

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