CHBC · California Historical Building Code

Are detention facilities required to have sprinklers under the CHBC?

If a historic building is used as a detention facility, the California Historical Building Code requires an automatic sprinkler system (see § 8-410.4). Which NFPA standard you must use (NFPA 13D, 13R, or 13) depends on story count, height and floor area as listed in § 8-410.2; alternatives require approval by the enforcing agency.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Yes. An automatic sprinkler system is required in all detention facilities under the California Historical Building Code — § 8-410.4.
Where the CHBC otherwise requires sprinklers, it also specifies the type of standard to use (for example NFPA 13R, NFPA 13, NFPA 13D) depending on building height, story count and area — see § 8-410.2.

Bottom line: If a building is a detention facility, the CHBC mandates an automatic sprinkler system. § 8-410.4 is the controlling provision.

Requirements in detail

Controlling rule

  • Mandatory sprinkler requirement: “An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all detention facilities.” — § 8-410.4.

What standard to design to

  • The CHBC identifies which NFPA standard to apply when an automatic sprinkler system is required:
    • Buildings of four stories or less: NFPA 13R.
    • For floors above the fourth: NFPA 13.
    • Buildings with floors above 75 feet: NFPA 13.
    • Free‑standing (property line separation), two floors and ≤ 1,500 sq ft per floor: NFPA 13D.
      These directions are in § 8-410.2.

Decision table — when which sprinkler standard applies

Decision dimension (what to check) Typical value / threshold Result / requirement Code Reference
Is the building a detention facility? Yes/No If Yes: sprinkler required throughout the facility. § 8-410.4
Number of stories ≤ 4 Use NFPA 13R design standard for nonhazardous occupancies when CHBC requires sprinklers. § 8-410.2 (1)
Floors above 4 / high stories Any floors > 4 or floors > 75 ft Use NFPA 13. § 8-410.2 (2–3)
Small free‑standing building 2 floors and ≤ 1,500 sq ft per floor NFPA 13D permitted. § 8-410.2 (4)
Repeated use of lighter standard When sprinklers are the method used to reach compliance 3 or more times NFPA 13D → raise to NFPA 13R; NFPA 13R → raise to NFPA 13. Exception in § 8-410.2

Interaction with other CHBC provisions

  • Sprinklers cannot be used to reduce required exits — they do not substitute for means-of-egress requirements (§ 8-410.3).
  • Providing a sprinkler system can be the path to compliance in several CHBC contexts (for example, to address distinct hazards, to avoid upgrading to one‑hour construction, or to allow certain historic finishes to remain). See § 8-410.1, § 8-402.1–.3.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CHBC text for § 8-410.4 contains no general exception for detention facilities — the requirement is categorical.
  • Alternatives and engineered approaches: where an enforcing agency accepts other technologies or life‑safety systems to address nonconformance, those may be considered (see § 8-410.1 and § 8-411). However, because § 8-410.4 specifically requires sprinklers in detention facilities, approval of an alternative would be an enforcing-agency action and must be documented.
  • Standards escalation: if the CHBC remedies rely repeatedly on the lightest sprinkler standard (NFPA 13D or 13R) to achieve compliance, the CHBC requires upgrading the design standard after repeated use (see the exception in § 8-410.2).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming sprinklers are optional for historic detention facilities. Wrong — § 8-410.4 requires them.
  • Selecting NFPA 13D without checking the two-story / ≤ 1,500 sq ft per floor criteria or whether the building is higher than four stories or above 75 ft. The CHBC ties which NFPA standard applies to those thresholds in § 8-410.2.
  • Using sprinklers to reduce the number of exits. The CHBC explicitly prohibits using sprinkler systems as a substitute for required exits in § 8-410.3.
  • Assuming approval of “other technologies” automatically relieves the sprinkler requirement. Alternatives must be accepted by the enforcing agency and do not override the explicit requirement in § 8-410.4 unless the authority having jurisdiction approves otherwise (see § 8-411 and § 8-410.1).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A qualified historic jail (a detention facility) is being brought into compliance. The building is two stories, each floor 1,200 sq ft, and is freestanding (separated from adjacent properties).

Step 1 — Is it a detention facility?

  • Yes → sprinkler required by § 8-410.4.

Step 2 — Which NFPA standard applies?

  • Two floors and 1,200 sq ft per floor (≤ 1,500 sq ft) and freestanding → NFPA 13D is the CHBC‑specified standard for nonhazardous occupancies meeting that size/arrangement per § 8-410.2 (4). So design to NFPA 13D unless the authority requires otherwise.

Step 3 — Check other CHBC impacts:

  • Even with sprinklers, you must still meet means‑of‑egress requirements — sprinklers cannot replace required exits (§ 8-410.3).
  • If the project uses sprinkler installation repeatedly as a method to avoid other upgrades, be aware of the escalation rule in § 8-410.2 (after three or more occasions the required standard steps up).

Related provisions

  • § 8-410.1 — Use of automatic sprinkler or other life‑safety technologies to achieve compliance for distinct hazards.
  • § 8-410.2 — Specifies the NFPA design standards to be used (13R, 13, 13D) and the escalation exception.
  • § 8-410.3 — Prohibits using sprinkler systems to substitute for required exits.
  • § 8-402.1–.3 — Sprinkler effects on exterior wall protection, one‑hour construction requirements, and openings in fire‑rated systems.
  • § 8-411 — Acceptance of other technologies (fire modeling, timed egress, detection and notification) by the enforcing agency.
  • § 8-302.3 — Occupancy separations reduced/omitted when sprinkler systems are provided throughout.

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 § 8-410.3 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 § 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 § 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.

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    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 § 803.13 High relevance — show source text

    Incidental uses 509 Interior finishes Table 803.13, 804 Live load Table 1607.1 Means of egress Aisles 1018.3

    Stairway, exit access 1019 Travel distance 1006.3, 1017.2,

    1006.2.1

    Mixed occupancies 508.2, 508.3, 508.4 Accessory 303.1.2, 508.2 Ambulatory care facilities 422 Assembly 303.1.2

    Assembly spaces 1030 Exit signs 1013.1 Guards 1015.2, 1030.17 Main exit 1030.3

    Open air 1005.3.1, 1005.3.2, 1006.3, 1009.6.4, 1019.3, 1027, 1030.6.2 Panic hardware 1010.2.8, 1010.4.1 Smoke-protected 1005.3.1, 1005.3.2, 1006.3, 1009.6.4, 1019.3, 1027, 1030.6.2 Travel distance 1006.2.1, 1006.3, 1017.2, 1030.7 Mixed occupancies 508.3, 508.4 Accessory 508.2 Education 303.1.3

    Live/work units 508.5 Mall buildings 402 Other occupancies 303.1.1, 303.1.2, 303.1.3 Parking below/above 510.7, 510.9 Religious facilities 303.1.4 Special mixed 510.2 Motion picture theaters 409, 507.12 Occupancy exceptions 303.1.1, 303.1.2, 303.1.3, 303.1.4, 305.1.1, 305.2.1 Plumbing fixtures Chapter 29 Risk category Table 1604.5 Seating, fixed (see Seating, Fixed) Seating, open-air assembly seating 1030.6.3 Seating, smoke-protected 1030.6.2 Sprinkler protection 410, 504.3, 506.2, 507.12, 507.4, 507.6, 507.7, 903.2.1 Stages and platforms 410 Standpipes 905.3.2, 905.5.1 Unlimited area 507.12, 507.4, 507.4.1, 507.6, 507.7 Assisted Living (see Group I-1 and Group R-4) 308.2, 310.5, 420 Atmospheric Ice Loads 1614 Atrium 404

    Alarms and detection 404.4, 907.2.15 Enclosure 404.6, 707.3.6 Interior finish 404.8 Means of egress 404.9, 404.10, 404.11, 1006.3.2, 1017.3, 1019.3, 1023.2,

    1028.2

    Smoke control 404.5, 909 Sprinkler protection 404.3 Standby power 404.7 Travel distance 404.9, 1006.2.1, 1006.3, 1017.2

    Use 404.2

    Attic 202

  • CHBC § 9-72 Medium relevance — show source text

    9-72 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    914.5.5 Standpipe system. The underground building shall be provided throughout with a standpipe system in accordance with Section 905.

    914.6 Stages. Stages shall comply with Section 914.6.1.

    914.6.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Stages shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Sprinklers shall be installed under the roof and gridiron and under all catwalks and galleries over the stage. Sprinklers shall be installed in dressing rooms, performer lounges, shops and storerooms accessory to such stages.

    Exceptions:

    1. Sprinklers are not required under stage areas less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in clear height utilized exclusively for storage of tables and chairs, provided that the concealed space is separated from the adjacent spaces by Type X gypsum board not less than [5] / 8 inch (15.9 mm) in thickness.
    2. Sprinklers are not required for stages 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) or less in area and 50 feet (15 240 mm) or less in height where curtains, scenery or other combustible hangings are not retractable vertically. Combustible hangings shall be limited to a single main curtain, borders, legs and a single backdrop.
    3. Sprinklers are not required within portable orchestra enclosures on stages.
    4. Sprinklers are not required under catwalks and galleries where they are permitted to be omitted in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

    914.7 Special amusement areas. Special amusement areas shall comply with Sections 914.7.1 through 914.7. 3 and Section 411 of the California Building Code.

    Exceptions:

    1. Special amusement areas that are without walls or a roof and constructed to prevent the accumulation of smoke are not required to comply with this section.
    2. Puzzle rooms provided with a means of egress that is unlocked, readily identifiable and always available are not required to comply with this section.

    914.7.1 Automatic sprinkler system. Buildings containing special amusement areas shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where the special amusement area is temporary ; less than 180 days; the sprinkler water supply shall be of an approved temporary means ; less than 180 days; means determined by the authority having jurisdiction.

    Exception: Automatic sprinklers are not required where the total floor area of a temporary ; less than 180 days; special amusement area is less than 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) and the exit access travel distance from any point in the special amusement area to an exit is less than 50 feet (15 240 mm).

    914.7.2 Fire alarm system. Buildings containing special amusement areas shall be equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system and an emergency voice/alarm communications system in accordance with Section 907. Presignal alarms and alarm activation shall comply with Sections 914.7.2.1 and 914.7.2.2, and emergency voice/alarm communications systems shall comply with Section 914.7.2.3.

  • CHBC § 9-29 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. On each side of the wall adjacent to the exit opening of a horizontal exit. Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to a horizontal exit are reachable from an interior exit stairway or exterior exit stairway hose connection by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose as measured along the path of travel, a hose connection shall not be required at the horizontal exit.

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    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

    1. In every exit passageway, at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of a building. Exception: Where floor areas adjacent to an exit passageway are reachable from an interior exit stairway or exterior exit stairway hose connection by a 30-foot (9144 mm) hose stream from a nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose, a hose connection shall not be required at the entrance from the exit passageway to other areas of the building.

    2. In covered mall buildings, adjacent to each exterior public entrance to the mall and adjacent to each entrance from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall. In open mall buildings, adjacent to each public entrance to the mall at the perimeter line and adjacent to each entrance from an exit passageway or exit corridor to the mall.

    3. Where the roof has a slope less than 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3-percent slope), a hose connection shall be located to serve the roof or at the highest landing of an interior exit stairway with access to the roof provided in accordance with Section 1011.12.

    4. Where the most remote portion of a floor or story is more than 150 feet (45 720 mm) from a hose connection, the fire code official is authorized to require that additional hose connections be provided in approved locations. The distances from a hose connection shall be measured along the path of travel.

    905.4.1 Protection. Risers and laterals of Class I standpipe systems not located within an interior exit stairway shall be protected by a degree of fire resistance equal to that required for vertical enclosures in the building in which they are located.

    Exception: In buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, laterals that are not located within an interior exit stairway are not required to be enclosed within fire-resistance-rated construction.

    905.4.2 Interconnection. In buildings where more than one standpipe is provided, the standpipes shall be interconnected in accordance with NFPA 14.

    905.5 Location of Class II standpipe hose connections. Class II standpipe hose connections shall be located so that all portions of the building are within 30 feet (9144 mm) of a listed variable stream fog nozzle attached to 100 feet (30 480 mm) of hose. Class II standpipe hose connections shall be located where they will have ready access.

    905.5.1 Groups A-1 and A-2. In Group A-1 and A-2 occupancies with occupant loads of more than 1,000, hose connections shall be located on each side of the rear of the auditorium and on each side of the balcony.

    905.5.2 Protection. Fire-resistance-rated protection of risers and laterals of Class II standpipe systems is not required.

  • CHBC § 410.5.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BE] 410.5.3.3 Two means of egress. Where two means of egress are required, the common path of travel shall be not greater than 100 feet (30 480 mm).

    Exception: A means of escape to a roof in place of a second means of egress is permitted.

    [BE] 410.5.3.4 Path of egress travel. The following exit access components are permitted where serving technical production

    areas:

    1. Stairways.

    2. Ramps.

    3. Spiral stairways.

    4. Catwalks.

    5. Alternating tread devices.

    6. Permanent ladders.

    [BE] 410.5.3.5 Width. The path of egress travel within and from technical support areas shall be not less than 22 inches (559 mm).

    [F] 410.6 Automatic sprinkler system. Stages shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Sprinklers shall be installed under the roof and gridiron and under all catwalks and galleries over the stage. Sprinklers shall be installed in dressing rooms, performer lounges, shops and storerooms accessory to such stages.

    Exceptions:

    1. Sprinklers are not required under stage areas less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in clear height that are utilized exclusively for storage of tables and chairs, provided that the concealed space is separated from the adjacent spaces by Type X gypsum board not less than [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) in thickness.
    2. Sprinklers are not required for stages 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) or less in area and 50 feet (15 240 mm) or less in height where curtains, scenery or other combustible hangings are not retractable vertically. Combustible hangings shall be limited to a single main curtain, borders, legs and a single backdrop.
    3. Sprinklers are not required within portable orchestra enclosures on stages.
    4. Sprinklers are not required under catwalks and galleries where they are permitted to be omitted in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

    SECTION 411—SPECIAL AMUSEMENT AREAS

    411.1 General. Special amusement areas having an occupant load of 50 or more shall comply with the requirements for the appropriate Group A occupancy and Sections 411.1 through 411.6. Special amusement areas having an occupant load of less than 50 shall comply with the requirements for a Group B occupancy and Sections 411.1 through 411.6.

    Exceptions:

    1. Special amusement areas that are without walls or a roof and constructed to prevent the accumulation of smoke are not required to comply with this section.

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    SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE

    1. Puzzle rooms provided with a means of egress that is unlocked, readily identifiable and always available are not required to comply with this section.

    [F] 411.2 Automatic sprinkler system. Buildings containing special amusement areas shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. Where the special amusement area is temporary, less than 180 days, the sprinkler water supply shall be of an approved temporary means determined by the authority having jurisdiction.

  • CHBC § 4005.2.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    4005.2.1.1 Elevated walkways. Where provided, elevated walkways between barrels shall be constructed in accordance with one of the following:

    1. Noncombustible materials that are 50 percent open.
    2. Noncombustible materials that are open less than 50 percent, provided that the walkway has a maximum width of 1 foot (305 mm) and a minimum gap of 3 inches (76 mm) is provided between the walkway and the barrel storage.
    3. Combustible materials that are provided with a row of automatic sprinklers directly beneath each walkway.

    4005.2.2 Flue spaces for on-end wooden barrels. Rack storage arrangements with on-end wooden barrels shall be provided with transverse and longitudinal flue spaces with a minimum width of 6 inches (152 mm).

    4005.2.3 Fire protection for rack storage. Rack storage arrangements of alcohol-water mixtures up to 75 percent alcohol in wooden barrels with sizes not exceeding 130 gallons (492 L) shall be protected in accordance with Sections 4005.2.3.1 through 4005.2.3.6.

    4005.2.3.1 Hose stream allowance. The automatic sprinkler system design shall include a 500-gallon-per-minute (1900 L/min) hose stream allowance.

    4005.2.3.2 Water supply duration. The automatic sprinkler system water supply duration, including hose stream demand, shall be a minimum of 1 hour.

    4005.2.3.3 Dry-pipe automatic sprinkler system. Where dry-pipe automatic sprinkler systems are installed, the automatic sprinkler system shall be designed to deliver water to the most remote four sprinklers within 40 seconds.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 40-5

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

    STORAGE OF DISTILLED SPIRITS AND WINES

    4005.2.3.4 Ceiling automatic sprinkler systems. The automatic sprinkler systems installed at the ceiling shall be designed with a minimum density of 0.2 gallon per minute (0.8 L/min) per square foot with an operating area of 2,000 square feet (186 m [2] ).

    4005.2.3.5 Automatic sprinkler system balancing. The automatic sprinkler system installed at the ceiling and the in-rack sprinkler system shall be balanced at the point of connection.

    4005.2.3.6 Automatic sprinkler system design. The design of the automatic sprinkler system at the ceiling and the in-rack sprinkler system shall be in accordance with Table 4005.2.3.6.

    |TABLE 4005.2.3.6—RACK STORAGE OF DISTILLED SPIRITS IN WOODEN

  • CHBC § 8-402 Medium 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 § 1009.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    [BE] 1009.7.1 Size. Each exterior area for assisted rescue shall be sized to accommodate wheelchair spaces in accordance with Section 1009.6.3.

    [BE] 1009.7.2 Separation. Exterior walls separating the exterior area of assisted rescue from the interior of the building shall have a minimum fire-resistance rating of 1 hour, rated for exposure to fire from the inside. The fire-resistance-rated exterior wall construction shall extend horizontally not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) beyond the landing on either side of the landing or equivalent fire-resistance-rated construction is permitted to extend out perpendicular to the exterior wall not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on the side of the landing. The fire-resistance-rated construction shall extend vertically from the ground to a point not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the floor level of the area for assisted rescue or to the roof line, whichever is lower. Openings within such fire-resistance-rated exterior walls shall be protected in accordance with Section 716 of the California Building Code . Exception: The fire-resistance rating and opening protectives are not required in the exterior wall where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    [BE] 1009.7.3 Openness. The exterior area for assisted rescue shall be open to the outside air. The sides other than the separation walls shall be not less than 50 percent open, and the open area shall be distributed so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.

    [BE] 1009.7.4 Stairways. S tairways that are part of the means of egress for the exterior area for assisted rescue shall provide a minimum clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails. Exception: The minimum clear width of 48 inches (1219 mm) between handrails is not required at stairways serving buildings equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

    [BE] 1009.8 Two-way communication. A two-way communication system complying with Sections 1009.8.1 and 1009.8.2 shall be provided at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators on each accessible floor that is one or more stories above or below the level of exit discharge. Exceptions:

    1. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving each elevator or bank of elevators where the two-way communication system is provided within areas of refuge in accordance with Section 1009.6.5.

    2. Two-way communication systems are not required on floors provided with ramps conforming to the provisions of Section 1012.

    3. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only service elevators that are not designated as part of the accessible means of egress or serve as part of the required accessible route into a facility.

    4. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landings serving only freight elevators.

    5. Two-way communication systems are not required at the landing serving a private residence elevator.

    6. Two-way communication systems are not required in Group I-2 or I-3 facilities.

  • CHBC § 6.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Revise Section 6.2.2 to read as follows: 6.2.2 Where a well, pump, tank or combination thereof is the source of supply for a fire sprinkler system, the configuration for the system shall be one of the following: (1) The water supply shall serve both domestic and fire sprinkler systems, (a) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection shall return water to the tank. (b) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be approved. (c) A method for refilling the tank shall be piped to the tank. (d) A method of seeing the water level in the tank shall be provided without having to open the tank. (e) The pump shall not be permitted to sit directly on the floor. (2) A stand-alone tank is permitted if the following conditions are met: (a) The pump shall be connected to a 220-volt circuit breaker shared with a common household appliance (e.g., range, oven, dryer), (b) The pump shall be a stainless steel 240-volt pump, (c) A valve shall be provided to exercise the pump. The discharge of the exercise valve shall drain to the tank, and (d) A sign shall be provided stating “Valve must be opened monthly for 5 minutes.” (e) A means for automatically refilling the tank level, so that the tank capacity will meet the required water supply duration in minutes, shall be provided. (f) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection may return water to the tank. (g) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be approved. (h) A method for refilling the tank shall be piped to the tank. (i) A method of seeing the water level in the tank shall be provided without having to open the tank. (j) The pump shall not be permitted to sit directly on the floor.

    Add new Section 6.2.2.1 to read as follows: 6.2.2.1 Where a fire sprinkler system is supplied by a stored water source with an automatically operated means of pressurizing the system other than an electric pump, the water supply may serve the sprinkler system only.

    Add new Section 6.2.4 to read as follows: 6.2.4 Where a water supply serves both domestic and fire sprinkler systems, 5 gpm (19 L/min) shall be added to the sprinkler system demand at the point where the systems are connected, to determine the size of common piping and the size of the total water supply requirements where no provision is made to prevent flow into the domestic water system upon operation of a sprinkler. For multipurpose piping systems, the 5 gpm (19 L/min) demand shall be added at the domestic connection nearest the design area. This demand may be split between two domestic connections at 2.5 gpm (10 L/min) each.

    Revise Section 8.3.4 to read as follows: 8.3.4* Sprinklers shall not be required in detached garages, open attached porches, carports with no habitable space above and similar structures.

Frequently asked questions

Do historic detention facilities ever get an exception to the sprinkler requirement?

Not by default. § 8-410.4 requires sprinklers for all detention facilities. Alternatives or engineered solutions can only be accepted if the enforcing agency approves them (see § 8-411 and § 8-410.1).

If my historic detention building is only two small floors, can I design to NFPA 13D?

Possibly. The CHBC permits NFPA 13D where the building is free‑standing, has two floors, and is ≤ 1,500 sq ft per floor; confirm the exact conditions in § 8-410.2 (4) and with the enforcing agency.

Can I count the sprinkler system toward reducing other fire upgrades?

Yes — providing an automatic sprinkler system can allow certain reductions (for example in one‑hour construction or openings) per § 8-402 and § 8-302.3, but these are scope‑dependent and must follow the CHBC provisions.

Will installing NFPA13D be accepted forever if I used it to comply?

No. The CHBC contains an escalation rule — if the lighter NFPA standard is used repeatedly (three or more occasions) to reach compliance, the required standard must be raised (NFPA13D → NFPA13R → NFPA13). See the exception in § 8-410.2.

Does providing sprinklers excuse me from meeting exit requirements?

No. § 8-410.3 explicitly states sprinklers shall not substitute for the required number of exits. You must still meet CHBC exiting provisions.

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California Historical Building Code