CHBC · California Historical Building Code

When does the CHBC require automatic sprinkler systems and which NFPA standards apply?

If a historic building can't meet regular-code construction requirements and is judged a distinct fire hazard, the CHBC lets it comply by installing an automatic sprinkler or approved life-safety system; the CHBC then prescribes which NFPA standard to use (NFPA 13D for very small two-story free‑standing buildings, NFPA 13R for buildings up to four stories, and NFPA 13 for upper floors or buildings over 75 feet) and requires sprinklers in detention facilities.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Historical Building Code (CHBC) says a qualified historical building that cannot be made to conform to regular-code construction requirements and that constitutes a distinct fire hazard is considered compliant if it is provided with an automatic sprinkler system, life-safety system, or other approved technology — the controlling rule is § 8-410.1.
When the CHBC requires an automatic sprinkler, the CHBC identifies which NFPA standard applies based on story count, height, or small free‑standing building size: NFPA 13R, NFPA 13, or NFPA 13D per § 8-410.2.
All detention facilities must be provided with an automatic sprinkler system per § 8-410.4.

The single most important rule: if a qualified historic building can't meet regular-code construction requirements and creates a distinct fire hazard, providing an automatic sprinkler (or approved alternative) will allow compliance under the CHBC. § 8-410.1.

Requirements in detail

When sprinklers may be required

  • If an existing historical building cannot meet the regular-code construction requirements for its occupancy/use and the enforcing agency determines it constitutes a distinct fire hazard, the CHBC allows compliance by installing an automatic sprinkler system or another approved life-safety technology (§ 8-410.1).
  • The CHBC also mandates sprinklers for specific building types: detention facilities must have an automatic sprinkler system (§ 8-410.4).

Which NFPA standard to use

The CHBC (as adopted by the State Fire Marshal) assigns the NFPA standard to be used for non‑hazardous occupancies when sprinklers are required (§ 8-410.2).

Decision dimension Required NFPA standard Code Reference
Buildings of four stories or less NFPA 13R § 8-410.2(1)
Any floors above the fourth (i.e., 5th floor and up) NFPA 13 § 8-410.2(2)
Buildings with floors more than 75 feet above lowest access level NFPA 13 § 8-410.2(3)
Free‑standing building or with property‑line separation, with two floors and ≤ 1,500 sq ft per floor NFPA 13D § 8-410.2(4)
Exterior wall/opening exposure protection As required by the CHBC (exposure protection design) § 8-410.2(5)

Notes:

  • NFPA 13R is the typical residential (reduced‑density) standard used for low‑ to mid‑rise buildings; NFPA 13 is the full commercial standard and is required for upper floors and tall buildings. These designations are explicitly listed in § 8-410.2.

How the CHBC uses sprinklers as an equivalency

  • The CHBC explicitly allows automatic sprinklers to be accepted in lieu of certain regular‑code construction upgrades (for example, satisfying exterior wall/opening protection or avoiding one‑hour upgrades) when the sprinkler system is designed as required by the CHBC — see related sections and § 8-402 references (see Related provisions).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Exception (upgrade of standard): If automatic sprinkler systems are used to obtain compliance under the CHBC on three or more occasions, the CHBC requires escalation of the sprinkler design standard: NFPA 13D must be upgraded to NFPA 13R, or NFPA 13R must be upgraded to NFPA 13. § 8-410.2 — Exception.
  • The CHBC does not authorize using sprinkler installation to reduce required means-of-egress. The CHBC elsewhere (related provisions) requires that sprinklers not be used as a substitute for required exits — see § 8-410.3.
  • One- and two-family dwelling exemptions and residential-code specifics (e.g., NFPA 13D allowances) are governed by the Residential Code; where CHBC references residential scenarios, follow the applicable residential standards in conjunction with CHBC allowances (see related provisions).

Common mistakes

  • Misreading "when required by the CHBC" as "always required": The CHBC does not automatically require sprinklers for every historic building — it requires them when the building cannot meet regular-code construction requirements and constitutes a distinct fire hazard — § 8-410.1.
  • Applying NFPA 13D when NFPA 13R or NFPA 13 is mandated: check the thresholds — four stories, floors above the fourth, and 75‑foot height are decisive per § 8-410.2.
  • Ignoring the “three or more occasions” escalation: repeated reliance on lower‑level standards to achieve compliance triggers a required upgrade in design standard under § 8-410.2.
  • Using sprinklers as an exit substitute: sprinklers shall not substitute for required exits — see § 8-410.3.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A historic 3‑story apartment building (nonhazardous occupancy) cannot be upgraded to meet some regular‑code construction requirements without unacceptable loss of historic fabric, and the enforcing agency determines it is a distinct fire hazard.

  1. Trigger: Because it cannot meet the regular-code construction requirements and is a distinct hazard, CHBC compliance can be achieved by installing an automatic sprinkler system under § 8-410.1.
  2. Applicable NFPA standard: The building is three stories (≤ four stories), so the CHBC directs use of NFPA 13R for the automatic sprinkler system design per § 8-410.2(1).
  3. Implementation notes: If, for example, the owner later uses sprinkler installation as the approved compliance method on this building on a repeated basis (the CHBC’s “three or more occasions” condition is met), the sprinkler standard would have to be upgraded from NFPA 13R to NFPA 13 per the exception in § 8-410.2.

Another quick numeric check: a free‑standing historic retail building with two floors and 1,200 sq ft per floor (and separation to property line) would fall under NFPA 13D per § 8-410.2(4) — unless the “three or more occasions” escalation applies.

Related provisions

  • § 8-402.1 — Exterior wall construction may be satisfied by an automatic sprinkler system designed for exposure protection (sprinklers may be installed exterior to protect openings).
  • § 8-402.2 — Upgrading to one‑hour construction is not required when an automatic sprinkler system throughout is provided.
  • § 8-302.3 — Occupancy separation relief (reductions/omissions) when an automatic sprinkler system is provided throughout the building.
  • § 8-410.3 — Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be used to substitute for required exits.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Historical Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CHBC § 8-409 High relevance — show source text

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    FIRE PROTECTION

    1. Wooden roof materials may be utilized where fire resistance is required, provided they are treated with fire-retardant treatments to achieve a Class “B” roof covering rating. Wood roofing in state designated Urban Wildland and High Fire Zones shall be permitted when installed in Class “A” assemblies.
    2. Jurisdictions that prohibit wood roofing materials for application as roof coverings and roof assemblies shall submit documentation for the adoption. Express Terms, statement of reasons and minutes of the action by the adopting authority Health and Safety Code, Section 18959(f).

    SECTION 8-409 — FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

    Every qualified historical building or property shall be provided with fire alarm systems as required for the use or occupancy by the regular code or other approved alternative.

    SECTION 8-410 — AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

    8-410.1 Every qualified historical building or property which cannot be made to conform to the construction requirements specified in the regular code for the occupancy or use, and which constitutes a distinct fire hazard (for definition of “Distinct Hazard,” see Chapter 8-2), shall be deemed to be in compliance if provided with an automatic sprinkler system or a life safety system or other technologies as approved by the enforcing agency. (“Automatic” is defined in the regular code. “Sprinkler System” is defined in this section.)

    8-410.2 When required by the CHBC, an automatic sprinkler system is defined by the following standards as adopted by the State Fire Marshal (for nonhazardous occupancies).

    1. Buildings of four stories or less: NFPA 13R.

    2. For floors above the fourth, NFPA 13.

    3. Buildings with floors above 75 feet, NFPA 13.

    4. When the building is free standing or with property line separation, two floors and 1500 square feet per floor or less, NFPA 13D.

    5. For exterior wall and opening protection. As required by this chapter.

    Exception: When the automatic sprinkler systems are used to reach compliance using this code, in three or more occasions, NFPA 13D standard shall be increased to NFPA 13R standard, or NFPA 13R standard shall be increased to a NFPA 13 standard.

    8-410.3 Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be used to substitute for or act as an alternate to the required number of exits from any facility. (See Chapter 8-5 for exiting requirements.)

    8-410.4 An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all detention facilities.

    SECTION 8-411 — OTHER TECHNOLOGIES

    Fire alarm systems, smoke and heat detection systems, occupant notification and annunciation systems, smoke control systems and fire modeling, timed egress analysis and modeling, as well as other engineering methods and technologies may be accepted by the enforcing agency to address areas of nonconformance.

    SECTION 8-412 — HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS

    Qualified historical buildings having floors for human occupancy located more than 75 feet above the lowest floor level having building access shall conform to the provisions of the regular code for existing high-rise buildings as amended by the CHBC.

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    8-5 MEANS OF EGRESS

  • CHBC § 8-404 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: When an automatic sprinkler system is provided throughout the building, existing finishes shall be approved.

    SECTION 8-404 — WOOD LATH AND PLASTER

    Wood lath and plaster walls may be considered in accordance with codes, standards and listings published prior to 1943 whereby a wood stud wall assembly with gypsum or lime plaster on hand split or sawn wooden lath obtains a one-half-hour fire-resistive rating. This rating may be increased for interior walls to as much as one hour by filling the wall with mineral fiber or glass fiber.

    SECTION 8-405 — OCCUPANCY SEPARATION

    See Chapter 8-3.

    SECTION 8-406 — MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA

    See Chapter 8-3.

    SECTION 8-407 — VERTICAL SHAFTS

    Vertical shafts need not be enclosed when such shafts are blocked at every floor level by the installation of not less than 2 full inches (51 mm) of solid wood or equivalent construction to prevent the initial passage of smoke and flame. Automatic sprinkler systems or other solutions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, in lieu of enclosure of vertical shafts and stairwells.

    SECTION 8-408 — ROOF COVERING

    Existing or original roofing materials may be repaired or reconstructed subject to the following requirements:

    1. The original or historical roofing system shall be detailed or modified as necessary in order to be capable of providing shelter while preserving the historical materials and appearance of the roof.

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    FIRE PROTECTION

    1. Wooden roof materials may be utilized where fire resistance is required, provided they are treated with fire-retardant treatments to achieve a Class “B” roof covering rating. Wood roofing in state designated Urban Wildland and High Fire Zones shall be permitted when installed in Class “A” assemblies.
    2. Jurisdictions that prohibit wood roofing materials for application as roof coverings and roof assemblies shall submit documentation for the adoption. Express Terms, statement of reasons and minutes of the action by the adopting authority Health and Safety Code, Section 18959(f).

    SECTION 8-409 — FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

    Every qualified historical building or property shall be provided with fire alarm systems as required for the use or occupancy by the regular code or other approved alternative.

    SECTION 8-410 — AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

    8-410.1 Every qualified historical building or property which cannot be made to conform to the construction requirements specified in the regular code for the occupancy or use, and which constitutes a distinct fire hazard (for definition of “Distinct Hazard,” see Chapter 8-2), shall be deemed to be in compliance if provided with an automatic sprinkler system or a life safety system or other technologies as approved by the enforcing agency. (“Automatic” is defined in the regular code. “Sprinkler System” is defined in this section.)

    8-410.2 When required by the CHBC, an automatic sprinkler system is defined by the following standards as adopted by the State Fire Marshal (for nonhazardous occupancies).

    1. Buildings of four stories or less: NFPA 13R.
    2. For floors above the fourth, NFPA 13.
  • CHBC § 903.2.19.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    903.2.19.1.2 Fire-resistive substitution for new campus. A new public school campus shall be entitled to include in the design and construction documents all of the applicable fire-resistive construction substitutions as permitted by this code.

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    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    903.2.20 Public school campuses. An automatic fire sprinkler system is not required to be provided in the following locations on Kindergarten through 12th grade. 1. A relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. Also see CCR, Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 2. Detached buildings designed and used for non-instructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occu- pancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:

    Concession Stand

    Press Box

    Restroom Facilities

    Shade Structure

    Snack Bar Storage Building Ticket Booth

    903.2.21 Required exterior entrance covers. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout covered exterior entrances required by California Building Code Section 11B-206.4.10 or Section 1224.33.2.1.

    903.3 Installation requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.8.

    903.3.1 Standards. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, unless otherwise permitted by Sections 903.3.1.2 and 903.3.1.3 and other chapters of this code, as applicable.

    903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 as amended in Chapter 80 except as provided in Sections 903.3.1.1.1 through 903.3.1.1.3.

    903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from a room merely because it is damp, of fireresistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.

    1. A room or space where sprinklers constitute a serious life or fire hazard as determined by the authority having jurisdiction. 2. Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms, control spaces and hoistways associated with f ire service access elevator s in accordance with Section 3007.

    3. Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms and control spaces and hoistways associated with occupant evacuation elevators designed in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code .

  • CHBC § 903.2.20 High relevance — show source text

    903.2.20 Public school campuses. An automatic fire sprinkler system is not required to be provided in the following locations on Kindergarten through 12th grade. 1. A relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. Also see CCR, Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 2. Detached buildings designed and used for non-instructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occu- pancy. Buildings would include but not be limited to:

    Concession Stand

    Press Box

    Restroom Facilities

    Shade Structure

    Snack Bar Storage Building Ticket Booth

    903.2.21 Required exterior entrance covers. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout covered exterior entrances required by California Building Code Section 11B-206.4.10 or Section 1224.33.2.1.

    [F] 903.3 Installation requirements. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.9 .

    [F] 903.3.1 Standards. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 unless otherwise permitted by Sections 903.3.1.2 and 903.3.1.3 and other chapters of this code, as applicable.

    [F] 903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 as amended in Chapter 35 except as provided in Sections 903.3.1.1.1 through 903.3.1.1. 4 .

    [F] 903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from a room merely because it is damp, of fire-resistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.

    1. A room or space where sprinklers constitute a serious life or fire hazard because of the nature of the contents, as determined by the authority having jurisdiction. 2. Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms, control spaces and hoistways associated with fire service access elevators provided in accordance with Section 3007.

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    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

  • CHBC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION R309—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

    R309.1 Townhouse automatic sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in townhouses.

    Exception: An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required where additions or alterations are made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic sprinkler system installed.

    R309.1.1 Design and installation. Automatic sprinkler systems for townhouses shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R309 or NFPA 13D.

    R309.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic sprinkler systems. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in one- and two-family dwellings.

    Exceptions:

    1. An automatic sprinkler system shall not be required for additions or alterations to existing buildings that are not already provided with a sprinkler system. 2. Accessory Dwelling Unit, provided that all of the following are met: 2.1. The unit meets the definition of an Accessory Dwelling Unit as defined in the Government Code Section 65852.2. 2.2. The existing primary residence does not have automatic fire sprinklers. 2.3. The accessory detached dwelling unit does not exceed 1,200 square feet in size. 2.4. The unit is on the same lot as the primary residence.

    R309.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R309 or NFPA 13D.

    R309.3 Dwelling unit automatic sprinkler systems.

    R309.3.1 General. The design and installation of automatic sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 13D or Section R309.3, which shall be considered to be equivalent to NFPA 13D. Partial automatic sprinkler systems shall be permitted to be installed only in buildings not required to be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. Section R309.3 shall apply to standalone and multipurpose wet-pipe sprinkler systems that do not include the use of antifreeze. A multipurpose automatic sprinkler system shall provide domestic water to both fire sprinklers and plumbing fixtures. A stand-alone automatic sprinkler system shall be separate and independent from the water distribution system.

    R309.3.1.1 Backflow protection. A backflow preventer shall not be required to separate a sprinkler system from the water distri- bution system, provided that: 1. The system complies with NFPA 13D or Section R309; 2. Piping materials are suitable for potable water in accordance with the California Plumbing Code; and 3. The system does not contain antifreeze or have a fire department connection.

    R309.3.1.2 Required sprinkler locations. Sprinklers shall be installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit.

  • CHBC § 8-410.3 High relevance — show source text

    1. Buildings with floors above 75 feet, NFPA 13.

    2. When the building is free standing or with property line separation, two floors and 1500 square feet per floor or less, NFPA 13D.

    3. For exterior wall and opening protection. As required by this chapter.

    Exception: When the automatic sprinkler systems are used to reach compliance using this code, in three or more occasions, NFPA 13D standard shall be increased to NFPA 13R standard, or NFPA 13R standard shall be increased to a NFPA 13 standard.

    8-410.3 Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be used to substitute for or act as an alternate to the required number of exits from any facility. (See Chapter 8-5 for exiting requirements.)

    8-410.4 An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all detention facilities.

    SECTION 8-411 — OTHER TECHNOLOGIES

    Fire alarm systems, smoke and heat detection systems, occupant notification and annunciation systems, smoke control systems and fire modeling, timed egress analysis and modeling, as well as other engineering methods and technologies may be accepted by the enforcing agency to address areas of nonconformance.

    SECTION 8-412 — HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS

    Qualified historical buildings having floors for human occupancy located more than 75 feet above the lowest floor level having building access shall conform to the provisions of the regular code for existing high-rise buildings as amended by the CHBC.

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    8-5 MEANS OF EGRESS

    SECTION 8-501 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE

    8-501.1 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish minimum means of egress regulations for qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC requires enforcing agencies to accept reasonably equivalent alternatives to the means of egress requirements in the regular code.

    8-501.2 Intent. The intent of these regulations is to provide an adequate means of egress.

    8-501.3 Scope. Every qualified historical building or portion thereof shall be provided with exits as required by the CHBC when required by the provisions of Section 8-102.

    SECTION 8-502 — GENERAL

    8-502.1 General. The enforcing agency shall grant reasonable exceptions to the specific provisions of applicable egress regulations where such exceptions will not adversely affect life safety.

    8-502.2. Existing door openings and corridor widths of less than dimensions required by regular code shall be permitted where there is sufficient width and height for the occupants to pass through the opening or traverse the exit.

    8-502.3 Stairs. Existing stairs having risers and treads or width at variance with the regular code are allowed if determined by the enforcing agency to not constitute a distinct hazard. Handrails with nonconforming grip size or extensions are allowed if determined by the enforcing agency to not constitute a distinct hazard.

    8-502.4 Main entry doors. The front or main entry doors need not be rehung to swing in the direction of exit travel, provided other means or conditions of exiting, as necessary to serve the total occupant load, are provided.

  • CHBC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    R309.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R309 or NFPA 13D.

    R309.3 Dwelling unit automatic sprinkler systems.

    R309.3.1 General. The design and installation of automatic sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 13D or Section R309.3, which shall be considered to be equivalent to NFPA 13D. Partial automatic sprinkler systems shall be permitted to be installed only in buildings not required to be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system. Section R309.3 shall apply to standalone and multipurpose wet-pipe sprinkler systems that do not include the use of antifreeze. A multipurpose automatic sprinkler system shall provide domestic water to both fire sprinklers and plumbing fixtures. A stand-alone automatic sprinkler system shall be separate and independent from the water distribution system.

    R309.3.1.1 Backflow protection. A backflow preventer shall not be required to separate a sprinkler system from the water distri- bution system, provided that: 1. The system complies with NFPA 13D or Section R309; 2. Piping materials are suitable for potable water in accordance with the California Plumbing Code; and 3. The system does not contain antifreeze or have a fire department connection.

    R309.3.1.2 Required sprinkler locations. Sprinklers shall be installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Attics, crawl spaces and normally unoccupied concealed spaces that do not contain fuel-fired appliances do not require sprinklers. In attics, crawl spaces and normally unoccupied concealed spaces that contain fuel-fired equipment, a sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment; however, sprinklers shall not be required in the remainder of the space.
    2. Clothes closets, linen closets and pantries not exceeding 24 square feet (2.2 m [2] ) in area, with the smallest dimension not greater than 3 feet (915 mm) and having wall and ceiling surfaces of gypsum board.
    3. Bathrooms not more than 55 square feet (5.1 m [2] ) in area.
    4. Garages; carports; exterior porches; unheated entry areas, such as mud rooms, that are adjacent to an exterior door; and similar areas.

    R309.3.2 Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be new listed residential sprinklers and shall be installed in accordance with the sprinkler manufacturer’s instructions.

    R309.3.2.1 Temperature rating and separation from heat sources. Except as provided for in Section R309.3.2, sprinklers shall have a temperature rating of not less than 135°F (57°C) and not more than 225°F (107°C). Sprinklers shall be separated from heat sources as required by the sprinkler manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    R309.3.2.2 Intermediate temperature sprinklers. Sprinklers shall have an intermediate temperature rating not less than 175°F (79°C) and not more than 225°F (107°C) where installed in the following locations:

    1. Directly under skylights, where the sprinkler is exposed to direct sunlight.

    2. In attics.

    3. In concealed spaces located directly beneath a roof.

    4. Within the distance to a heat source as specified in Table R309.3.2.2 .

  • CHBC § 10.3.2 High relevance — show source text

    ** Simultaneous operation shall not be required where the one fixed pipe extinguishing system is an automatic sprinkler system. Where an automatic sprinkler system is used in conjunction with a water-based fire-extinguishing system served by the same water supply, hydraulic calculations shall consider both systems operating simultaneously. [NFPA 96:10.3.2, 10.3.2.1] 513.3.5 Dry or Wet Chemical Systems. Simultaneous operation shall be required where a dry or wet chemical system is used to protect common exhaust ductwork by one of the methods specified in NFPA 17 or NFPA 17A , Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems . [NFPA 96:10.3.3] 513.4 Fuel and Electric Power Shutoff. Upon actuation of any fire-extinguishing system for a cooking operation, all sources of fuel and electric power that produce heat to all equipment protected by the system shall automatically shut off.

    [NFPA 96:10.4.1]

    Exception: Solid-fuel cooking operations. 513.4.1 Steam. Steam supplied from an external source shall not be required to automatically shut off. [NFPA 96:10.4.2]

    513.4.2 Protection Not Required. Gas appliances not requiring protection but located under the same ventilation equipment where protected appliances are located, shall also be automatically shut off upon actuation of the extinguishing system. [NFPA 96:10.4.3] 513.4.3 Manual Reset. Shutoff devices shall require manual resetting prior to fuel or power being restored.

    [NFPA 96:10.4.4]

    513.4.3.1 Power Restoration. Where an electrical gas valve is used for shutting off gas to appliances, a manually reset relay shall be used to restore electrical power to the gas valve. [NFPA 96:10.4.4.1] 513.4.4 Shutoff Not Required. Solid fuel cooking operations shall not be required to be shut down. [NFPA 96:10.4.5]

    513.5 Manual Actuation. All systems shall have both automatic and manual methods of actuation. At least one manual

    actuation device shall be located in a means of egress or at a location acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    The manual actuation device shall clearly identify the hazard protected and be provided with instructions for its use.

    Manual actuation devices shall be provided with a guard where required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    An automatic sprinkler system shall not require a method

    – of manual actuation. {NFPA 96:10.5.1 10.5.2} 513.6 System Annunciation. Upon actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, an audible alarm or visual indicator shall be provided to show that the system has actuated.

    [NFPA 96:10.6.1] 513.6.1 Signaling. Where a fire alarm signaling system is serving the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the actuation of the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72. [NFPA 96:10.6.2] 513.7 Special Design and Application. Hoods containing automatic fire-extinguishing systems are protected areas; therefore, these hoods shall not be considered obstructions to overhead sprinkler systems and shall not require floor additional sprinkler coverage underneath.

  • CHBC § 8-402 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 8-402 — FIRE-RESISTIVE CONSTRUCTION

    8-402.1 Exterior wall construction. The fire-resistance requirement for existing exterior walls and existing opening protection may be satisfied when an automatic sprinkler system designed for exposure protection is installed per the CHBC. The automatic sprinklers may be installed on the exterior with at least one sprinkler located over each opening required to be protected. Additional sprinklers shall also be distributed along combustible walls under the roof lines that do not meet the fire-resistive requirement due to relationship to property lines as required by regular code. Such sprinkler systems may be connected to the domestic water supply on the supply-main side of the building shut-off valve. A shut-off valve may be installed for the sprinkler system, provided it is locked in an open position.

    8-402.2 One-hour construction. Upgrading an existing qualified historical building or property to one-hour fire-resistive construction and one-hour fire-resistive corridors shall not be required regardless of construction or occupancy when one of the following is provided:

    1. An automatic sprinkler system throughout. See Section 8-410 for automatic sprinkler systems.
    2. An approved life safety evaluation.
    3. Other alternative measures as approved by the enforcing agency.

    8-402.3 Openings in fire-rated systems. Historical glazing materials and solid wood unrated doors in interior walls required to have one-hour fire rating may be approved when operable windows and doors are provided with appropriate smoke seals and when the area affected is provided with an automatic sprinkler system. See Section 8-410 for automatic sprinkler systems.

    SECTION 8-403 — INTERIOR FINISH MATERIALS

    New non-historical interior wall and ceiling finishes shall conform to the provisions of the regular code. Existing non-conforming materials used in interior walls and finishes may be surfaced with an approved fire-retardant to increase the rating of the natural finish to within reasonable proximity of the required rating. For wood lath and plaster walls, see Section 8-404.

    Exception: When an automatic sprinkler system is provided throughout the building, existing finishes shall be approved.

    SECTION 8-404 — WOOD LATH AND PLASTER

    Wood lath and plaster walls may be considered in accordance with codes, standards and listings published prior to 1943 whereby a wood stud wall assembly with gypsum or lime plaster on hand split or sawn wooden lath obtains a one-half-hour fire-resistive rating. This rating may be increased for interior walls to as much as one hour by filling the wall with mineral fiber or glass fiber.

    SECTION 8-405 — OCCUPANCY SEPARATION

    See Chapter 8-3.

    SECTION 8-406 — MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA

    See Chapter 8-3.

    SECTION 8-407 — VERTICAL SHAFTS

    Vertical shafts need not be enclosed when such shafts are blocked at every floor level by the installation of not less than 2 full inches (51 mm) of solid wood or equivalent construction to prevent the initial passage of smoke and flame. Automatic sprinkler systems or other solutions may be considered on a case-by-case basis, in lieu of enclosure of vertical shafts and stairwells.

    SECTION 8-408 — ROOF COVERING

    Existing or original roofing materials may be repaired or reconstructed subject to the following requirements:

    1. The original or historical roofing system shall be detailed or modified as necessary in order to be capable of providing shelter while preserving the historical materials and appearance of the roof.
  • CHBC § 8-303.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    8-303.6 Light and ventilation. Windows in habitable rooms shall have an area of 6 percent of the floor area, or 6 square feet (0.56 m [2] ), whichever is greater. Windows in sleeping rooms shall be openable (see Section 8-503). Residential occupancies need not be provided with electrical lighting.

    8-303.7 Alteration and repair. The alteration and repair of qualified historical buildings or properties may permit the replacement, retention and extension of original materials and the continued use of original methods of construction, provided a life safety hazard is not created or continued. Alterations and repairs shall be consistent with the CHBC.

    The amount of alterations and repairs is not limited, provided there is no nonhistorical increase in floor area, volume or size of the building or property.

    8-303.8 Exiting. See Chapter 8-5.

    6 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    8-4 FIRE PROTECTION

    SECTION 8-401 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE

    8-401.1 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to provide regulations for fire protection of qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC requires enforcing agencies to accept any reasonably equivalent alternatives to the regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.

    8-401.2 Intent. The intent of the CHBC is to preserve the integrity of qualified historical buildings or properties while maintaining a reasonable degree of fire protection based primarily on the life safety of the occupants and firefighting personnel.

    8-401.3 Scope. This chapter shall apply when required by the provisions of Section 8-102.

    SECTION 8-402 — FIRE-RESISTIVE CONSTRUCTION

    8-402.1 Exterior wall construction. The fire-resistance requirement for existing exterior walls and existing opening protection may be satisfied when an automatic sprinkler system designed for exposure protection is installed per the CHBC. The automatic sprinklers may be installed on the exterior with at least one sprinkler located over each opening required to be protected. Additional sprinklers shall also be distributed along combustible walls under the roof lines that do not meet the fire-resistive requirement due to relationship to property lines as required by regular code. Such sprinkler systems may be connected to the domestic water supply on the supply-main side of the building shut-off valve. A shut-off valve may be installed for the sprinkler system, provided it is locked in an open position.

    8-402.2 One-hour construction. Upgrading an existing qualified historical building or property to one-hour fire-resistive construction and one-hour fire-resistive corridors shall not be required regardless of construction or occupancy when one of the following is provided:

    1. An automatic sprinkler system throughout. See Section 8-410 for automatic sprinkler systems.
    2. An approved life safety evaluation.
    3. Other alternative measures as approved by the enforcing agency.

    8-402.3 Openings in fire-rated systems. Historical glazing materials and solid wood unrated doors in interior walls required to have one-hour fire rating may be approved when operable windows and doors are provided with appropriate smoke seals and when the area affected is provided with an automatic sprinkler system. See Section 8-410 for automatic sprinkler systems.

    SECTION 8-403 — INTERIOR FINISH MATERIALS

  • CHBC § 513.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    513.5 Manual Actuation. All systems shall have both automatic and manual methods of actuation. At least one manual

    actuation device shall be located in a means of egress or at a location acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    The manual actuation device shall clearly identify the hazard protected and be provided with instructions for its use.

    Manual actuation devices shall be provided with a guard where required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    An automatic sprinkler system shall not require a method

    – of manual actuation. {NFPA 96:10.5.1 10.5.2} 513.6 System Annunciation. Upon actuation of an automatic fire-extinguishing system, an audible alarm or visual indicator shall be provided to show that the system has actuated.

    [NFPA 96:10.6.1] 513.6.1 Signaling. Where a fire alarm signaling system is serving the occupancy where the extinguishing system is located, the actuation of the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall actuate the fire alarm signaling system in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72. [NFPA 96:10.6.2] 513.7 Special Design and Application. Hoods containing automatic fire-extinguishing systems are protected areas; therefore, these hoods shall not be considered obstructions to overhead sprinkler systems and shall not require floor additional sprinkler coverage underneath. [NFPA 96:10.7.1] 513.8 Review and Certification. Where required, complete drawings of the system installation, including the hood(s), exhaust duct(s), and appliances, along with the interface of the fire-extinguishing system detectors, piping, nozzles, fuel and electric power shutoff devices, agent storage container(s), and manual actuation device(s), shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. [NFPA 96:10.8.1] 513.9 Installation Requirements. Installation of systems shall be performed only by persons properly trained and qualified to install the specific system being provided. The installer shall provide certification to the Authority Having Jurisdiction that the installation is in agreement with the terms of the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions and/or approved design.

    [NFPA 96:10.8.2.1, 10.8.2.2]

    513.10 Portable Fire Extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers shall be selected and installed in kitchen cooking areas in accordance with Chapter 3, Title 19 California Code of Reg- ulations and shall be specifically listed for such use. Class K fire extinguishers shall be provided for cooking appliance hazards that involve combustible cooking media (vegetable oils and animal oils and fats). [NFPA 96:10.9.1, 10.9.2] 513.10.1 Other Fire Extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for other hazards in kitchen areas and shall be selected and installed in accordance with Chapter 3, Title 19 California Code of Regulations .

    [NFPA 96:10.9.3] 513.10.2 Carbon Dioxide-Type. Carbon dioxide-type extinguishers shall not be permitted. [NFPA 96:10.9.4] 513.11 Maintenance. Portable fire extinguishers shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA 10. [NFPA 96:10.9.5]

    513.11.1 Permitted Use. Portable fire extinguishers listed specifically for use in the kitchen cooking areas shall also be permitted.

  • CHBC § 8-301 Medium relevance — show source text

    Section

    8-301 Purpose and Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 8-302 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

    8-303 Residential Occupancies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

    CHAPTER 8-4 FIRE PROTECTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    Section

    8-401 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    8-402 Fire-resistive Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    8-403 Interior Finish Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    8-404 Wood Lath and Plaster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    8-405 Occupancy Separation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 8-406 Maximum Floor Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    8-407 Vertical Shafts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

    8-408 Roof Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 8-409 Fire Alarm Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 8-410 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 8-411 Other Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 8-412 High-rise Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

    CHAPTER 8-5 MEANS OF EGRESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

    Section

    8-501 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 8-502 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

    8-503 Escape or Rescue Windows and Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . 10 8-504 Railings and Guardrails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Frequently asked questions

When does the CHBC actually require a sprinkler system?

When a qualified historic building cannot be made to meet the construction requirements of the regular code for its use/occupancy and is found to constitute a distinct fire hazard, the CHBC permits compliance by installing an automatic sprinkler system or approved alternative — § 8-410.1.

Which NFPA standard applies for a 2‑story historic house?

If the CHBC requires sprinklers in that scenario and the building is free‑standing with two floors and ≤ 1,500 sq ft per floor, NFPA 13D is the designated standard per § 8-410.2(4); otherwise check whether NFPA 13R is more appropriate under other criteria.

Are sprinklers allowed to replace required exits under the CHBC?

No. The CHBC states sprinklers shall not be used to substitute for or act as an alternate to the required number of exits — see § 8-410.3.

What happens if a lower‑level NFPA standard is used repeatedly to gain compliance?

If a lower NFPA standard is used to reach compliance three or more times, the CHBC requires the design standard be escalated (NFPA 13D → 13R, or 13R → 13) per the exception in § 8-410.2.

Are detention facilities treated differently?

Yes — the CHBC requires an automatic sprinkler system in all detention facilities under § 8-410.4.

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