CFC · California Fire Code
What is the scope and general rules for temporary heating and cooking?
Chapter 41 of the California Fire Code covers temporary heating and cooking: portable or mobile heaters and cookers must be listed and used per manufacturer instructions, be constantly attended while operating, have a minimum 4‑A extinguisher on site, and follow LP‑gas, electrical and tent‑setback rules; many tent and wildfire‑area uses require an operational permit (see **§ 4101.1**, **§ 4101.4.3**, **105.5.55**) .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Chapter 41 of the California Fire Code covers temporary heating and cooking operations; the chapter applies to the use, operation, testing and maintenance of mobile and portable equipment and devices used for temporary heating and cooking (see § 4101.1) . Equipment must be listed and labeled, used per the manufacturer’s instructions, and operations may require an operational permit (see § 4101.3, § 4101.2) . Additional specific rules address attendance, fire extinguishers, electrical compliance, LP‑gas handling and related safeguards (see §§ 4101.4–4101.6) .
The chief rule: Chapter 41 governs all temporary, mobile, and portable heating and cooking devices — they must be listed, operated per manufacturer instructions, constantly attended while in use, and meet permit and fire‑safety requirements (see § 4101.1) .
Requirements in detail
Applicability and scope
- The chapter applies to mobile and portable equipment and devices used for temporary heating and cooking (see § 4101.1) .
- Exception: Temporary heating devices used during construction/alteration/demolition follow Chapter 33 (see § 4101.1 exception) .
Permits and approvals
- An operational permit is required where the permit system in Section 105.5 applies; Chapter 41 is explicitly tied to permits for certain situations (see § 4101.2 and the permit list items 105.5.55–105.5.57) .
- Examples in the permit list: temporary heating/cooking in tents or membrane structures (105.5.55) and in wildfire risk areas (105.5.56) .
Equipment listing, installation and operation
- All mobile/portable heating and cooking equipment must be listed and labeled and used per their listing and manufacturer instructions (see § 4101.3) .
- The owner/operator must operate and maintain equipment per manufacturer instructions and the code (see § 4101.4) .
Attendance, fire protection and electrical compliance
- Equipment must be constantly attended while in use and until cooled to safe temperature (see § 4101.4.2) .
- A portable fire extinguisher with minimum 4‑A rating (or equivalent approved on‑site extinguishing equipment) must be immediately available (see § 4101.4.3) .
- Electrical heating and cooking devices must comply with the California Electrical Code (see § 4101.5) .
LP‑gas, oil and refueling rules
- LP‑gas equipment, containers, piping, hoses and related components must be approved and comply with Chapter 61 and the International Fuel Gas Code (see § 4101.6.1) .
- LP‑gas containers/tanks must be located outside per Table 6104.3; relief valves must point away from tents/membranes (see § 4101.6.2) .
- Portable LP containers used to fuel equipment inside tents must be protected and secured; exchange/refill rules follow Chapter 61 and NFPA 58 where applicable (see §§ 4101.6.3–4101.6.4) .
- Oil‑fired equipment must comply with Section 605; refueling of liquid‑fueled equipment must follow Section 5705 (see §§ 4101.7–4101.8) .
Cooking and tent‑related specifics (related parts of Chapter 41)
- Open‑flame cooking devices (charcoal, etc.) are prohibited on combustible balconies and within 10 feet of combustible construction unless exceptions apply (see § 4104.2) .
- Portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances indoors shall not be within 10 feet of exits or combustible materials (see § 4104.3) .
- Groups of cooking tents: individual cooking tent area max 700 sq ft, fire‑break separation 12 feet, and fire access aisle min 16 feet clear (see § 4104.5.1) .
- Portable electric cooking appliances must be listed, plugged directly into an approved receptacle or a relocatable power tap rated 20 amps (2400 W), not connected to extension cords, and disconnected when not in use (see §§ 4105.1.1–4105.1.4) .
- Portable electric cooking appliances must not operate within 3 feet of combustible materials or in Group H occupancies (see § 4105.1.5) .
Decision‑relevant dimensions/values (quick reference)
| Requirement / threshold | Value | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Fire extinguisher minimum | 4‑A rating | § 4101.4.3 |
| Constant attendance | Constantly attended while in use | § 4101.4.2 |
| LP‑gas container max (portable outdoor heaters) | 20 pounds (9 kg) max per container | § 4103.1.2.3.3 |
| Cooking tent individual area limit | 700 sq ft (65 m²) (where exception conditions apply) | § 4104.5.1(1) |
| Cooking tent fire‑break clearance | 12 feet (3658 mm) | § 4104.5.1(2) |
| Fire access aisle between rows of cooking tents | 16 feet (4877 mm) clear | § 4104.5.1(3) |
| Open‑flame setback from combustible construction/balconies | 10 feet (3048 mm) | § 4104.2 |
| Portable electric cooking appliance proximity to combustibles | 3 feet (914 mm) | § 4105.1.5 |
| Relocatable power tap rating (temporary electric cooking) | 20 amps (2400 W) | § 4105.1.2 |
| Permits for temporary heating/cooking in tents | Operational permit required | 105.5.55 |
Exceptions & special cases
- Construction‑site temporary heating is handled by Chapter 33 (see § 4101.1 exception) — do not apply Chapter 41 rules to construction heating; instead follow § 3305 requirements for construction heating and hot work .
- Tents used exclusively for recreational camping, or certain small/open tents meeting the stated conditions, may be excepted from some permit requirements — see the exceptions listed under the tent permit rules in 105.5.51 and related provisions (see 105.5.55/56) .
- Designated cooking tents with an automatic sprinkler system may be allowed to perform cooking that otherwise would be restricted near tents (see § 4104.4 exception) .
If a specific appliance type or placement scenario is not spelled out in the retrieved excerpts, consult the listed appliance documentation and your local enforcing authority — the code repeatedly requires compliance with listings, manufacturer instructions, and approvals by the fire code official (see §§ 4101.3–4101.4) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming temporary = no permit: many tent/membrane and wildfire‑area uses require an operational permit (see 105.5.55–105.5.56) .
- Using unlisted or unlabeled equipment: Chapter 41 requires listed and labeled equipment and adherence to manufacturer instructions (see § 4101.3) .
- Plugging portable cookers into extension cords: portable electric cooking appliances must be plugged directly into an approved receptacle or approved relocatable power tap — no extension cords (see § 4105.1.2–4105.1.3) .
- Insufficient attendance or extinguishers: equipment must be constantly attended and a 4‑A extinguisher available (see §§ 4101.4.2–4101.4.3) .
- Storing LP containers inside tents or too close: LP containers used to fuel tent appliances must be outside, secured and located per code (see §§ 4101.6.2–4101.6.3) .
Worked example — food‑vendor booth at an outdoor event
Scenario: A caterer sets up a temporary cooking booth inside a 900‑sq‑ft tent at a county fair and will use portable propane burners and electric warming plates.
Step-by-step application of the code:
- Permit: Because cooking is inside a tent >400 sq ft and this is temporary cooking in a tent, obtain an operational permit (see 105.5.55) .
- Equipment listing: Ensure propane burners and electric plates are listed and labeled and used per manufacturer instructions (see § 4101.3) .
- Attendance and extinguisher: Keep appliances constantly attended while operating and have at least one 4‑A extinguisher immediately available (see §§ 4101.4.2–4101.4.3) .
- LP‑gas placement: Place propane cylinders outside, secure them against tampering, and locate them per Table 6104.3; relief valves must be pointed away from the tent (see § 4101.6.2–4101.6.3) .
- Cooking location: Because cooking may produce grease‑laden vapors, ensure cooking devices are isolated from the public and meet any tent sprinkler requirements if closer than 10 feet to the tent wall (see § 4104.4 and § 4104.3) .
- Electric appliances: Plug electric warming plates directly into approved receptacles or a 20‑amp relocatable power tap; do not use extension cords and disconnect when not in use (see §§ 4105.1.2–4105.1.4) .
Related provisions (quick list)
- § 4101.1 — General scope and applicability of Chapter 41
- § 4101.2 — Permits (reference to Section 105.5)
- § 4101.3 — Listed equipment requirement
- § 4101.4 — Operation and maintenance; attendance; fire extinguishers
- § 4101.5 — Electrical heating and cooking equipment compliance
- § 4101.6 — LP‑gas storage, handling and use (4101.6.1–4101.6.4)
- § 4104 — Portable fuel‑fired cooking appliances, open‑flame rules, tent cooking distances and grouping limits
- § 4105 — Portable electric cooking appliances (listing, power supply limits, prohibitions)
- 105.5.55–105.5.57 — Operational permits for temporary heating/cooking in tents, wildfire areas, and construction sites
- Chapter 33 (e.g., § 3305) — Temporary heating on construction sites; separate rules apply
If you want, I can extract the exact code text for any of the specific subsections above or build a one‑page checklist for event organizers that maps these requirements to actionable steps for inspections and permits.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
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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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 § 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 § 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:
- 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 § 4103.1 High 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.
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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
CWUIC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 41 Temporary Heating and Cooking Operations
Chapter 41 provides all requirements relative to temporary heating and cooking operations in a single chapter. Some of these provisions were originally found in Chapters 3, 6 and 31. This chapter is intended to facilitate consistent enforcement of temporary heating and cooking operations by making the requirements more straightforward. Temporary heating on construction sites is addressed in Chapter 33.
Chapters 42 through 47 Reserved for future use.
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Chapter 48 Motion Picture and Television Production Studio Stages, Approved Production Facilities and Production Locations
On July 23, 1982, a Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter crashed at Indian Dunes in Valencia, Santa Clarita, California, during the making of Twilight Zone: The Movie. The crash killed three people on the ground and injured the six helicopter passengers. Those killed were actor Vic Morrow and child actors Myca Dinh Le and Renee Shin-Yi Chen. The incident led to years of civil and criminal action and was responsi- ble for the introduction of new procedures and safety standards in the filmmaking industry.
Chapter 49 Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Areas
Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Areas are now located in Part 7 of Title 24, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. The provisions of Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and structures located in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) or Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
PART V—HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Chapter 50 Hazardous Materials—General Provisions
Chapter 50 contains the general requirements for all hazardous chemicals in all occupancies. The general provisions of this chapter are intended to be companion provisions with the specific requirements of Chapters 51 through 67 regarding a given classification of hazardous material.
Chapter 51 Aerosols
Chapter 51 addresses the prevention, control and extinguishment of fires and explosions in facilities where retail aerosol products are displayed or stored. Requirements for storing aerosol products are dependent on the level of aerosol product, level of sprinkler protection, type of storage condition and quantity of aerosol products.
Chapter 52 Reserved for future use.
Chapter 53 Compressed Gases
Chapter 53 regulates the storage, use and handling of all flammable and nonflammable compressed gases, such as those that are used in medical facilities, air separation plants, industrial plants, agricultural equipment facilities and in systems such as carbon dioxide beverage dispensing and carbon dioxide enrichment. Where classified as a hazardous material, Chapter 50 would apply along with specific applications such as those used in welding and cutting (Chapter 35), cryogenic liquids (Chapter 55) and liquefied petroleum gases (Chapter 61).
Chapter 54 Corrosive Materials
Chapter 54 addresses materials whose primary hazard is corrosivity; that is, the ability to destroy or irreparably damage living tissue on contact. Although corrosive gases exist, most corrosive materials are solid or liquid and classified as either acids or bases (alkalis). These materials may pose a wide range of hazards other than corrosivity, such as combustibility, reactivity or oxidizing hazards, and must conform to the requirements of this code with respect to all known hazards.
Chapter 55 Cryogenic Fluids
CFC § 105.5.45 High relevance — show source text
105.5.45 Pyroxylin plastics. An operational permit is required for storage or handling of more than 25 pounds (11 kg) of cellulose nitrate (pyroxylin) plastics, and for the assembly or manufacture of articles involving pyroxylin plastics.
105.5.46 Refrigeration equipment. An operational permit is required to operate a mechanical refrigeration unit or system regulated by Chapter 6.
105.5.47 Repair garages and motor fuel-dispensing facilities. An operational permit is required for operation of repair garages.
105.5.48 Rooftop heliports. An operational permit is required for the operation of a rooftop heliport.
105.5.49 Spraying or dipping. An operational permit is required to conduct a spraying or dipping operation utilizing flammable or combustible liquids, or the application of combustible powders regulated by Chapter 24.
105.5.50 Storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts. An operational permit is required to establish, conduct or maintain storage of scrap tires and tire byproducts that exceeds 2,500 cubic feet (71 m [3] ) of total volume of scrap tires, and for indoor storage of tires and tire byproducts.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
105.5.51 Temporary membrane structures, special event structures and tents. An operational permit is required to operate an air-supported temporary membrane structure, a temporary special event structure or a tent having an area in excess of 400 square feet (37 m [2] ).
Exceptions:
- Tents used exclusively for recreational camping purposes.
- Tents, curtains and extensions attached thereto, when used for funeral services.
- Tents open on all sides, which comply with all of the following: 3.1. Individual tents having a maximum size of 700 square feet (65 m [2] ). 3.2. The aggregate area of multiple tents placed side by side without a fire break clearance of not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) shall not exceed 700 square feet (65 m [2] ) total. 3.3. A minimum clearance of 12 feet (3658 mm) to structures and other tents shall be provided.
105.5.52 Tire-rebuilding plants. An operational permit is required for the operation and maintenance of a tire-rebuilding plant.
105.5.53 Waste handling. An operational permit is required for the operation of wrecking yards, junk yards and waste materialhandling facilities.
105.5.54 Wood products. An operational permit is required to store chips, hogged material, lumber or plywood in excess of 200 cubic feet (6 m [3] ).
105.5.55 Temporary heating or cooking in tents or membrane structures. An operational permit is required to operate temporary heating or cooking equipment within tents or membrane structures.
105.5.56 Temporary heating or cooking in wildfire risk areas. Where required by local regulations, an operational permit is required to operate temporary heating or cooking equipment in wildfire risk areas
105.5.57 Temporary heating for construction sites. An operational permit is required to operate temporary heating equipment in structures during the course of construction, alteration or demolition.
105.5.58 Mobile fueling of hydrogen-fueled vehicles.
CFC § 3305.1 High relevance — show source text
3305.1 Listed. Temporary heating devices shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance and use of temporary heating devices shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
3305.1.1 Oil-fired heaters. Oil-fired heaters shall comply with Section 605.
3305.1.2 LP-gas heaters. Fuel supplies for liquefied-petroleum gas-fired heaters shall comply with Chapter 61 and the Interna- tional Fuel Gas Code .
3305.1.3 Refueling. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or appliances shall be conducted in accordance with Section 5705. The equipment or appliance shall be allowed to cool prior to refueling.
3305.1.4 Installation. Clearance to combustibles from temporary heating devices shall be maintained in accordance with the labeled equipment. When in operation, temporary heating devices shall be fixed in place and protected from damage, dislodgement or overturning in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
3305.1.5 Supervision. The use of temporary heating devices shall be supervised and maintained only by competent personnel.
3305.2 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited except in approved areas. Signs shall be posted in accordance with Section 310. In approved areas where smoking is permitted, approved ashtrays shall be provided in accordance with Section 310.
3305.3 Burning of combustible debris, rubbish and waste. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall not be disposed of by burning on the site unless approved.
3305.4 Open burning. Open burning shall comply with Section 307.
3305.5 Cutting and welding. Welding, cutting, open torches and other hot work operations and equipment shall comply with Chapter 35.
3305.6 Electrical. Temporary wiring for electrical power and lighting installations used in connection with the construction, alteration or demolition of buildings, structures, equipment or similar activities shall comply with the California Electrical Code .
3305.7 Cooking. Cooking shall be prohibited except in approved designated cooking areas separated from combustible materials by a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm). Signs with a minimum letter height of 3 inches (76 mm) and a minimum brush stroke of [1] / 2 inch (13 mm) shall be posted in conspicuous locations in designated cooking areas and state:
DESIGNATED COOKING AREA
COOKING OUTSIDE OF A DESIGNATED
COOKING AREA IS PROHIBITED
3305.8 Portable generators. Portable generators used at construction and demolition sites shall comply with Section 1204.
3305.9 Hot work operations. The site safety director shall ensure hot work operations and permit procedures are in accordance with Chapter 35.
3305.10 Safeguarding roofing operations. Roofing operations utilizing heat-producing systems or other ignition sources shall be conducted in accordance with Sections 3305.10.1 and 3305.10.2 and Chapter 35.
3305.10.1 Asphalt and tar kettles. Asphalt and tar kettles shall be operated in accordance with Section 303.
3305.10.2 Fire extinguishers for roofing operations. Fire extinguishers shall comply with Section 906. There shall be not less than one multiple-purpose portable fire extinguisher with a minimum 3-A 40-B:C rating on the roof being covered or repaired.
SECTION 3306—FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND DEVICES
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.
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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
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CHAPTERS
42– 47 RESERVED
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42-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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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 § 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.
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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.
CFC § 31-10 High relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §319.(d) and (e)] Fire Extinguishers and Other Fire Protection Equipment.
- (d) Tents having a capacity of 1,000 or more persons shall be protected on each of the long sides with fire hose lines of at least 1 [1] / 2 inch internal diameter and of sufficient length to reach either end of the tent. The water supply shall be either from the public water mains or from tanks having a capacity of not less than 500 gallons. There shall be at least 65 pounds of flowing pressure at the nozzle of the hose line when a [1] / 2 -inch tip is used.
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TENTS, TEMPORARY SPECIAL EVENT STRUCTURES AND OTHER MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
(e) The enforcing authority may modify or waive any of the requirements of this section [Title 19, Division 1, Section 319] and may accept other types of fire extinguishing equipment in lieu of that required by Title 19, Division 1 regulations if, in the authorities’ opin- ion, reasonable and adequate protection will be afforded.
3108.11 Occupant load factors. The occupant load allowed in an assembly structure, or portion thereof, shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 10.
3108.12 Heating and cooking equipment. Temporary heating and cooking equipment shall be in accordance with Chapter 41. Permanent heating and cooking equipment shall be in accordance with Chapter 6 and Sections 3108.12.1 through 3108.12.3.
3108.12.1 Installation. Heating or cooking equipment, tanks, piping, hoses, fittings, valves, tubing and other related components shall be installed as specified in the International Fuel Gas Code and the California Mechanical Code, and shall be approved by the fire code official.
3108.12.2 Venting. Gas, liquid and solid fuel-burning equipment designed to be vented shall be vented to the outside air as specified in the International Fuel Gas Code and the California Mechanical Code . Such vents shall be equipped with approved spark arresters where required. Where vents or flues are used, all portions of the tent or membrane structure shall be not less than 12 inches (305 mm) from the flue or vent.
3108.12.3 Location. Cooking and heating equipment shall not be located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of exits or combustible materials.
3108.13 Flammable and combustible liquids. The storage of flammable and combustible liquids and the use of flammable-liquidfueled equipment shall be in accordance with Sections 3108.13.1 through 3108.13.3.
3108.13.1 Use. Flammable-liquid-fueled equipment shall not be used in tents or membrane structures.
3108.13.2 Flammable and combustible liquid storage. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be stored outside in an approved manner not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from tents or membrane structures. Storage shall be in accordance with Chapter 57.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §324.(a) and (b)] Flammable and Combustible Liquids.
CFC § 4105.1.3 Medium 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
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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
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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 § 3304.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 3304—PROTECTION OF COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS
3304.1 Combustible debris, rubbish and waste. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall comply with the requirements of Sections 3304.1.1 through 3304.2.
3304.1.1 Combustible waste material accumulation. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall not be accumulated within buildings.
3304.1.2 Combustible waste material removal. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall be removed from buildings at the end of each shift of work.
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FIRE SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION
3304.1.3 Rubbish containers. Where rubbish containers with a capacity exceeding 5.33 cubic feet (40 gallons) (0.15 m [3] ) are used for temporary storage of combustible debris, rubbish and waste material, they shall have tight-fitting or self-closing lids. Such rubbish containers shall be constructed entirely of materials that comply with either of the following:
Noncombustible materials.
Materials that meet a peak rate of heat release not exceeding 300 kW/m [2] when tested in accordance with ASTM E1354 at an incident heat flux of 50 kW/m [2] in the horizontal orientation.
3304.2 Spontaneous ignition. Materials susceptible to spontaneous ignition, such as oily rags, shall be stored in a listed disposal container.
SECTION 3305—IGNITION SOURCE CONTROLS
3305.1 Listed. Temporary heating devices shall be listed and labeled. The installation, maintenance and use of temporary heating devices shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
3305.1.1 Oil-fired heaters. Oil-fired heaters shall comply with Section 605.
3305.1.2 LP-gas heaters. Fuel supplies for liquefied-petroleum gas-fired heaters shall comply with Chapter 61 and the Interna- tional Fuel Gas Code .
3305.1.3 Refueling. Refueling operations for liquid-fueled equipment or appliances shall be conducted in accordance with Section 5705. The equipment or appliance shall be allowed to cool prior to refueling.
3305.1.4 Installation. Clearance to combustibles from temporary heating devices shall be maintained in accordance with the labeled equipment. When in operation, temporary heating devices shall be fixed in place and protected from damage, dislodgement or overturning in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
3305.1.5 Supervision. The use of temporary heating devices shall be supervised and maintained only by competent personnel.
3305.2 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited except in approved areas. Signs shall be posted in accordance with Section 310. In approved areas where smoking is permitted, approved ashtrays shall be provided in accordance with Section 310.
3305.3 Burning of combustible debris, rubbish and waste. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material shall not be disposed of by burning on the site unless approved.
3305.4 Open burning. Open burning shall comply with Section 307.
3305.5 Cutting and welding. Welding, cutting, open torches and other hot work operations and equipment shall comply with Chapter 35.
Frequently asked questions
Do I always need a permit to run a food truck at an event?
Not always — Chapter 41 requires permits for temporary heating/cooking in tents or in wildfire risk areas (see 105.5.55–105.5.56). Mobile food truck rules are elsewhere in Chapter 41; confirm with your local fire authority and the listing/manufacturer instructions for the truck (see 105.5.55–105.5.56, § 4101.3) .
Can I use a portable electric fryer plugged into an extension cord?
No — portable electric cooking appliances must be plugged directly into an approved receptacle or a relocatable power tap rated 20 amps (2400 W); extension cords are not permitted (see § 4105.1.2–4105.1.3) .
Are LP cylinders allowed inside tents to fuel cooking appliances?
No — LP‑gas containers and tanks used to fuel equipment inside tents must be located outside and secured; indoor storage is restricted except as allowed by Section 6109.9 (see §§ 4101.6.2–4101.6.3) .
What size fire extinguisher is required for temporary cooking/heating?
At least one portable extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum 4‑A rating must be available for immediate use (see § 4101.4.3) .
If a tent is less than 700 sq ft, do the cooking‑tent rules apply?
The 700 sq ft figure appears as the maximum for certain exceptions and for individual cooking tents in grouping rules; however, tents and cooking operations may still require permits and must meet other setback and equipment listing requirements — always confirm with the fire code official and see § 4104.5.1 and 105.5.55 .
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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