CHBC · California Historical Building Code
What fire alarm systems does the CHBC require for historic buildings?
If your building is designated historic, the CHBC says you still need a fire alarm when the regular (California) code requires one — **§ 8-409** — but it lets the enforcing agency accept engineered or less-invasive alternatives (e.g., selective detectors, annunciation systems, sprinklers used in specific ways) under **§ 8-411**; for residential two-story historic buildings there is a specific CHBC path that requires a complete alarm/annunciation system to gain area/height benefits (**§ 8-302.4**).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Historical Building Code (CHBC) requires that every qualified historical building or property be provided with fire alarm systems appropriate to its use or occupancy as required by the regular code (or by an approved alternative) — § 8-409. In plain terms: the CHBC does not list a separate set of alarm device types or zones; it defers to the regular building/fire code requirements for the occupancy unless the enforcing agency approves an alternative solution. § 8-411 expressly allows the enforcing agency to accept other technologies or engineered solutions.
The single most important rule: if a building is designated a qualified historical building, it still needs a fire alarm system where the regular (California) code requires one — unless the enforcing agency approves an equivalent alternative under the CHBC. § 8-409.
Requirements in detail
Key points (short, skimmable):
- The CHBC mandate for alarms is a deferral: system selection and detailing are governed by the regular code for the building’s use/occupancy, or by an approved alternative accepted by the enforcing agency (§ 8-409).
- The CHBC explicitly permits alternative technologies such as smoke/heat detection, occupant notification/annunciation, smoke control, and other engineered solutions in lieu of full regular-code conformity when approved (§ 8-411).
- Where automatic sprinklers or other fire-protection measures are used to reach compliance, CHBC chapters reference those systems and applicable standards (see § 8-410).
Decision table — When the CHBC requires what (decision-relevant dimensions)
| Decision factor | Trigger / threshold | Typical required system under CHBC | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building is a qualified historical building | Any such building subject to permit or CHBC use | Provide fire alarm systems as required for the use or occupancy by the regular code, or an approved alternative | § 8-409 |
| Residential occupancy — two stories or less | To qualify for certain CHBC area/height relief | Complete fire alarm and annunciation system (to be provided if relying on CHBC exception) | § 8-302.4 (Exception 2) |
| Building uses sprinkler protection to meet CHBC requirements | Where sprinklers are provided throughout or for exterior protection | Sprinklers may be accepted in lieu of some construction upgrades; alarm interactions per regular code (e.g., water-flow initiating alarm) | § 8-410 and related text |
| Enforcing agency accepts alternatives | Any time equivalent life-safety is demonstrated | Other technologies (smoke detection, occupant notification, fire modeling, timed egress, etc.) may be accepted | § 8-411 |
| High-rise conditions | Floors > 75 feet above lowest access level | Qualified historical high-rises must conform to regular-code high-rise provisions (including alarm/annunciation) | § 8-412 and § 8-302.5.1 |
What "as required for the use or occupancy by the regular code" means
- The CHBC text places the substantive alarm-device, zoning, notification, and monitoring requirements under the regular code (California Building Code / California Fire Code and referenced NFPA standards). You must therefore consult the regular-code sections that apply to the building’s occupancy to determine whether an automatic fire alarm, manual pull stations, smoke detectors, notification appliances, voice/alarm systems, or supervisory/monitoring are required. § 8-409.
- The CHBC does not restate the regular-code thresholds (for example, area, height, occupant load triggers). If you need device-level specifics (locations, circuits, audible/visible appliance spacing, supervision, etc.), refer to the applicable regular-code sections (e.g., Section 907 family in the Fire Code / Building Code). The regular code also describes equivalencies when sprinklers are present (see Fire Code references regarding sprinkler/alarms).
Exceptions & special cases
- Alternative compliance: The enforcing agency may accept other technologies — e.g., selective smoke detection, occupant notification, smoke control, or engineered life-safety analyses — in place of strict regular-code requirements when the CHBC is used (§ 8-411).
- Residential exception for area: CHBC allows certain residential occupancies of two stories or less to be unlimited in area without fire-resistive separation if they are provided with a complete fire alarm and annunciation system and the exits conform to the regular code (§ 8-302.4, Exception 2). This is an example where the CHBC requires a particular alarm outcome to gain a construction/area benefit.
- High-rise historic buildings: Qualified historic buildings with occupied floors over 75 feet must conform to regular-code high-rise provisions as amended by the CHBC, including alarm/annunciation requirements (§ 8-412).
- When an automatic sprinkler system is provided as part of CHBC compliance, sprinkler standards and their interaction with alarms are addressed in § 8-410 (CHBC adopts NFPA standards for sprinkler design in that context).
If a specific alarm feature or device is required by the regular code for the occupancy (for example: emergency voice/alarm communications, strobes, supervised monitoring, water-flow initiating alarms), that requirement still applies to the historic building unless the enforcing agency approves an alternative under § 8-411.
Common mistakes
- Mistake: "The CHBC removes all fire alarm requirements for historic buildings." Wrong — the CHBC requires alarms where the regular code requires them (or an approved equivalent) — § 8-409.
- Mistake: Assuming an automatic sprinkler automatically removes the need for any alarm. The interplay between sprinklers and alarms is governed by the regular code and by CHBC provisions about sprinklers — check § 8-410 and the regular code provisions (e.g., water-flow initiating alarms and notification).
- Mistake: Designing an “aesthetic” alarm plan without early approval. Because the CHBC explicitly allows alternatives and equivalencies, you must obtain enforcing-agency acceptance for any nonstandard detection/notification approach under § 8-411; do not assume field acceptance.
- Mistake: Omitting a “complete fire alarm and annunciation system” when relying on CHBC area/height exceptions for residential buildings — that specific alarm provision is a condition of the exception in § 8-302.4.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A two-story, 12,000 sq ft historic apartment building (qualified historical building) is being rehabilitated; exits will be brought to conform to the regular code but owner wants to avoid full fire-resistive area separations.
How the CHBC applies:
- CHBC requires an alarm system per the regular code or an approved alternative — § 8-409.
- CHBC provides an explicit path for residential buildings of two stories or less: they may be unlimited in floor area without fire-resistive area separations if they are provided with a complete fire alarm and annunciation system and the exiting conforms to regular code — § 8-302.4, Exception 2.
Practical steps and numbers:
- Because this is a two‑story residential historic building, the owner may rely on the CHBC exception only if they install a complete fire alarm and annunciation system meeting the regular code’s requirements. The CHBC does not define the device-by-device layout; therefore, the designer must follow the regular code (e.g., the Fire/Building Code alarm requirements and NFPA 72 where applicable) for detector counts, notification appliance spacing, annunciation, zoning, and monitoring. § 8-409 and § 8-302.4.
- If sprinkler coverage is also installed throughout the building to meet other CHBC conditions, consult § 8-410 for required standards and how sprinkler water-flow devices may interact with alarm initiation.
Bottom line for the owner: install a full building fire alarm and annunciation system per the regular-code specifications (and obtain enforcing-agency acceptance). If you want to use a nonstandard/less intrusive detection system for historic preservation reasons, prepare an engineered alternative and get written approval under § 8-411.
Related provisions (CHBC sections)
- § 8-409 — Fire alarm systems (primary controlling section).
- § 8-410 — Automatic sprinkler systems (interaction with CHBC compliance and standards for sprinklers).
- § 8-411 — Other technologies (engineered solutions and alternate systems accepted by enforcing agency).
- § 8-302.4 — Maximum floor area / residential exceptions that reference a complete fire alarm and annunciation system.
- § 8-412 — High-rise buildings (conformance to regular-code high-rise provisions including alarms where floors exceed 75 feet).
- § 8-402 — Fire-resistive construction (sprinkler alternatives for exterior wall/opening protection and interactions with alarms).
(For device-level design, annunciation zoning, voice/alarm system requirements, and the exact point at which a building requires a monitored fire alarm or voice/alarm, consult the regular California Building Code / California Fire Code provisions and NFPA standards referenced by them; the CHBC defers to those rules for occupancy-specific details.)
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
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION
- 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.
- 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).
Buildings of four stories or less: NFPA 13R.
For floors above the fourth, NFPA 13.
Buildings with floors above 75 feet, NFPA 13.
When the building is free standing or with property line separation, two floors and 1500 square feet per floor or less, NFPA 13D.
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.
8 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
8-5 MEANS OF EGRESS
CHBC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text
A separate fire alarm system is not required in buildings that are equipped throughout with an approved supervised automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 and having a local alarm to notify all occupants. 3. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units and are protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling units either have a means of egress door opening directly to an exterior exit access that leads directly to the exits or are served by open-ended corridors designed in accordance with Section 1027.6, Exception 3. 4. A fire alarm system is not required in buildings that do not have interior corridors serving dwelling units, do not exceed three stories in height and comply with both of the following: 4.1. Each dwelling unit is separated from other contiguous dwelling units by fire barriers having a fire-resistance rating of not less than [3] / 4 hour. 4.2. Each dwelling unit is provided with smoke alarms complying with the requirements of Section 907.2.11.
1103.7.8 Existing Group R-1 and Group R-2 High-rise buildings. See Section 1113.3.
1103.7.8.1 General. Every apartment house and every hotel shall have installed therein an automatic or manually operated fire alarm system. Such fire alarm systems shall be so designed that all occupants of the building may be warned simultaneously.
1103.7.8.2 Installation. The installation of all fire alarm equipment shall be in accordance with this code.
1103.7.9 Existing High-rise Buildings.
1103.7.9.1 Fire alarm system. Every existing high-rise building shall be provided with an approved fire alarm system. In depart- ment stores, retail sales stores and similar occupancies where the general public is admitted, such systems shall be of a type capable of alerting staff and employees. In office buildings and all other high-rise buildings, such systems shall be of a type capa- ble of alerting all occupants simultaneously.
Exceptions: 1. In areas of public assemblage, the type and location of audible appliances shall be as determined by the enforcing
agency. 2. When acceptable to the enforcing agency, the occupant voice notification system required by Section 1114.20 and California Existing Building Code may be used in lieu of the fire alarm system.
1103.7.9.2 Existing systems. Existing fire alarm systems, when acceptable to the enforcing agency, shall be deemed as conform- ing to the provisions of these regulations.
1103.7.9.3 Annunciation. When a new fire alarm system is installed, it shall be connected to an annunciator panel installed in a location approved by the enforcing agency.
For purposes of annunciation, zoning shall be in accordance with Section 907.6.4.4.
1103.7.9.4 Monitoring. Monitoring shall be in accordance with Section 907.6.6.
1103.7.9.5 Systems interconnection. When an automatic fire detection system or automatic extinguishing system is installed, activation of such system shall cause the sounding of the fire alarm notification appliances at locations designated by the enforc- ing agency.
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:
- 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE 7
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION
- 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.
- 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).
- Buildings of four stories or less: NFPA 13R.
- For floors above the fourth, NFPA 13.
CHBC § 1305.2.9 High relevance — show source text
1305.2.9 Fire alarm systems. Evaluate the capability of the fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907 of the International Building Code . Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1305.2.9, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1306.1 under Safety Parameter 1305.2.9, Fire Alarm System, for fire safety, means of egress and general safety.
TABLE 1305.2.9—FIRE ALARM SYSTEM VALUES Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 OCCUPANCY CATEGORIES CATEGORIES CATEGORIES CATEGORIES OCCUPANCY a ba c d A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, B, E, R -10 -5 0 5 F, M, S 0 5 10 15 I-2 -4 1 2 5 a. For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device. a. For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device. a. For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device. a. For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device. a. For buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system, add 2 points for activation by a sprinkler water-flow device. 1305.2.9.1 Categories. The categories for fire alarm systems are:
- Category a—None.
- Category b—Fire alarm system with manual fire alarm boxes in accordance with Section 907.4 of the International Building Code and alarm notification appliances in accordance with Section 907.5.2 of the International Building Code .
- Category c—Fire alarm system in accordance with Section 907 of the International Building Code .
13-8 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS
- Category d—Category c plus a required emergency voice/alarm communications system and a fire command station that conforms to Section 911 of the International Building Code and contains the emergency voice/alarm communications system controls, fire department communication system controls, and any other controls specified in Section 911 of the International Building Code where those systems are provided.
1305.2.10 Smoke control. Evaluate the ability of a natural or mechanical venting, exhaust or pressurization system to control the movement of smoke from a fire. Under the categories and occupancies in Table 1305.2.10, determine the appropriate value and enter that value into Table 1306.1 under Safety Parameter 1305.2.10, Smoke Control, for means of egress and general safety.
CHBC § 907.2.26.4.2. High relevance — show source text
907.2.26.4.2. Provisions shall be made in the design of this two-way emergency communication phone system for extensions of the system to the next passenger station or guideway portal.
907.2.27 Winery caves. An approved manual fire alarm system conforming to the provisions of Section 907.2.1 shall be provided in all Type 3 winery caves.
907.2.28 Group L. A manual fire alarm system shall be installed throughout buildings having Group L occupancy.
When Group L occupancies are located in mixed use buildings, at least one manual fire alarm box shall be located within the Group L occupancy.
907.2.28.1 Group L occupancies located on the 11th story and above. Manual fire alarm boxes shall be required on each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier and at each exit on the 11th story and above.
907.2.29 Public school state-funded construction projects for kindergarten through 12th grade — automatic fire alarm system requirements.
907.2.29.1 Alterations to existing buildings on an existing public school campus. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided for all portions within the scope of an alteration project. The provisions of this section shall apply to any public school project on an existing campus and receiving state funds pursuant to Leroy F. Green, School Facilities Act of 1998, California Educa- tion Code, Sections 17070.10 through 17079. For purposes of this section, an existing campus refers to a school site, where an application for construction of original buildings was made to DSA prior to July 1, 2002.
Exceptions: 1. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a construction project that has an estimated total cost of less than $200,000.
2. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for 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. See California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 3. A fire alarm system is not required for detached buildings designed and used for noninstructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occupancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:
Concession stand.
Press box.
Restroom facilities.
Shade structure.
Snack bar. Storage building. Ticket booth.
907.3 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by
9-50 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
CHBC § 8-303.6 High 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:
- An automatic sprinkler system throughout. See Section 8-410 for automatic sprinkler systems.
- An approved life safety evaluation.
- 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 § 8-410.3 High relevance — show source text
Buildings with floors above 75 feet, NFPA 13.
When the building is free standing or with property line separation, two floors and 1500 square feet per floor or less, NFPA 13D.
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.
8 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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 § 8-301 High 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
CHBC § 5003.12 High relevance — show source text
Outdoor control areas 5003.12 Performance-based design alternative 5001.3
Permit 105.5.22, 105.6.13 Personnel training 407.4 Power systems 1203.2.10 Storage 5004 Use, dispensing and handling 5005 Hazardous Materials Inventory Statement 407.5, 5001.5.2, Appendix H Hazardous Materials Management Plan 407.6, 5001.5.1, Appendix H Hazardous Production Material (HPM)
202
Permit 105.5.23 Hazards to Firefighters 316 Health Hazard 202, 5001.2.2.2, Table 5003.1.1(2), Table 5003.1.1(4)
Heat Vents (see Smoke and Heat Vents) Heaters, Patio (see Portable Outdoor Gas- Fired Heating Appliances) Heaters, Portable Electric Space 4102.1 Heaters, Portable Unvented 4103.1 Heating Appliances 605.5 Heating Equipment, Temporary, During Construction 3303 Heliport 202, 2007 Permit for rooftop heliport 105.5.48 Helistop 202, 2007 Hi-Boy 202 Construction 303.7 Higher Education Laboratories Existing sprinklered laboratories 3806 General safety provisions 3803 Laboratory suite construction 3804 Nonsprinklered laboratories 3805
Highly Toxic and Toxic Materials 202, Chapter 60 Compressed gases 6004 Indoor storage and use 6003.1 Outdoor storage and use 6003.2 Solids and liquids 6003 High-Piled Combustible Storage 202, Chapter 32 Aisles 3206.9 Automated storage 3209 Automatic sprinklers 3206.4, 3209.2 Classifications, commodities 3203 Fire protection 3206, Table 3206.2 Housekeeping 3205 Pallets 3206.4.1 Plastic pallets 3206.4.1.1 High-Piled Storage Area 202 Designations 3204 Permit 105.5.24 High-Rise Building 202 Automatic sprinkler system 903.2.11.3, 914.3.1 Automatic sprinkler system, floor control valves required 903.3.9 Automatic sprinkler system, secondary water supply required 914.3.2 Emergency voice/alarm communications system 907.2.13, 914.3.5 Fire alarm system 907.2.13, 914.3.3 Fire alarm system zoning 907.6.4.2 Fire command center 508.1, 914.3.7 Fire department communications system 907.2.13.2 Fire safety and evacuation plans 403.10.2 In-building, two-way emergency responder communication 914.3.6 Smokeproof exit stairway enclosures 1023.12 Standby power system 1203.2.11 Standpipe system 905.3.1 High-Voltage Transmission Line 202 Storage under 315.5, 316.6 Historic Buildings 102.
CHBC § 907.2.29 High relevance — show source text
907.2.29 Public school state funded construction projects for kindergarten through 12th grade - automatic fire alarm system requirements.
907.2.29.1 Alterations to existing buildings on an existing public school campus. An automatic fire alarm system shall be provided for all portions within the scope of an alteration project. The provisions of this section shall apply to any public school project on an existing campus and receiving state funds pursuant to Leroy F. Green, School Facilities Act of 1998, California Educa- tion Code Sections 17070.10 through 17079. For purposes of this section, an existing campus refers to a school site, where an application for construction of original buildings was made to DSA prior to July 1, 2002.
Exceptions: 1. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for a construction project that has an estimated total cost of less than $200,000.
2. A manual fire alarm system may be provided for 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. See California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 3. A fire alarm system is not required for detached buildings designed and used for non-instructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occupancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:
Concession Stand
Press Box
Restroom Facilities
Shade Structure
Snack Bar
9-36 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
Storage Building Ticket Booth
[F] 907.3 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire safety functions shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is installed . Detectors shall, upon actuation, perform the intended function and activate the alarm notification appliances or activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location. In buildings not equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical service and, upon actuation, perform the intended function. The detectors shall be located in accordance with NFPA 72.
[F] 907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location and shall perform the intended fire safety function in accordance with this code and the California Mechanical Code. In facilities that are required to be monitored by a supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall report only as a supervisory signal and not as a fire alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for required open area detection.
Exceptions:
CHBC § 8-408 Medium relevance — show source text
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
CHAPTER 8-6 ACCESSIBILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Section
8-601 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8-602 Basic Provisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8-603 Alternatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8-604 Equivalent Facilitation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
CHAPTER 8-7 STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Section
8-701 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-702 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8-703 Structural Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-704 Nonhistorical Additions and
Nonhistorical Alterations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CHBC § 914.3.4 Medium relevance — show source text
914.3.4 Automatic smoke detection. Smoke detection shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.2.13.1.
914.3.5 Emergency voice/alarm communication system. An emergency voice/alarm communication system shall be provided in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
914.3.6 Emergency responder communication coverage. In-building, two-way emergency responder communication coverage shall be provided in accordance with Section 510.
914.3.7 Fire command. A fire command center complying with Section 508 shall be provided in a location approved by the fire department.
914.3.8 Smoke control.
914.3.8.1 Smoke control system. All portions of high-rise buildings shall be provided with a smoke control system in accordance with California Building Code, Section 909.
914.3.8.2 Smokeproof exit enclosures. Every exit enclosure in high-rise buildings shall comply with California Building Code, Sections 909.20 and 1023.12. Every required stairway in Group I-2 occupancies serving floors more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access shall comply with Sections 909.20 and 1023.12 of the California Building Code.
Exception: In high-rise buildings, exit enclosures serving three or less adjacent floors where one of the adjacent floors is the level of exit discharge.
914.4 Atriums. Atriums shall comply with Sections 914.4.1 and 914.4.2.
914.4.1 Automatic sprinkler system. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire building.
Exceptions:
- That area of a building adjacent to or above the atrium need not be sprinklered, provided that portion of the building is separated from the atrium portion by not less than a 2-hour fire barrier constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.
- Where the ceiling of the atrium is more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the floor, sprinkler protection at the ceiling of the atrium is not required.
914.4.2 Fire alarm system. A fire alarm system shall be provided where required by Section 907.2.14.
914.5 Underground buildings. Underground buildings shall comply with Sections 914.5.1 through 914.5.5.
914.5.1 Automatic sprinkler system. The highest level of exit discharge serving the underground portions of the building and all levels below shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Waterflow switches and control valves shall be supervised in accordance with Section 903.4.1.
914.5.2 Smoke control system. A smoke control system is required to control the migration of products of combustion in accordance with Section 909 and provisions of this section. Smoke control shall restrict movement of smoke to the general area of fire origin and maintain means of egress in a usable condition.
914.5.3 Compartment smoke control system. Where compartmentation is required by Section 405.4 of the California Building Code, each compartment shall have an independent smoke control system. The system shall be automatically activated and capable of manual operation in accordance with Section 907.2.18.
Frequently asked questions
Do historic buildings always need a full building fire alarm system?
Not always; the CHBC requires an alarm where the regular code requires one, but it also permits the enforcing agency to accept approved alternatives or engineered solutions under § 8-411. For most occupancies the regular code’s triggers (occupant load, height, area, use) control the requirement.
If I add sprinklers throughout a historic building, can I skip alarms?
Not automatically. Sprinklers affect certain code trade-offs and may change alarm obligations per the regular code; CHBC § 8-410 discusses sprinklers as a compliance measure and the standards to be used. Confirm the specific alarm implications with the enforcing agency and the applicable regular-code sections.
What counts as an “approved alternative” to regular-code alarms?
An approved alternative is any solution the enforcing agency finds provides equivalent life-safety (examples listed in the CHBC include engineered smoke detection, occupant notification/annunciation, smoke control, fire modeling, or timed egress analysis). Approval must come from the enforcing agency per § 8-411.
Where can I find the device-level requirements (spacing, wiring supervision, monitoring)?
Device-level requirements are in the regular California Building Code and California Fire Code (e.g., alarm control unit, appliance spacing, supervision, NFPA 72 references). The CHBC defers to those requirements when it points to “required for the use or occupancy by the regular code.” § 8-409.
Who decides if an engineered alternative is acceptable?
The local enforcing agency (building/fire official) reviews and must accept any alternative solution under § 8-411. Early coordination with that authority is essential.
More in California Historical Building Code
Ask about the CHBC
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Historical Building Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial