CHBC · California Historical Building Code

Grounding, GFCI and replacing nongrounding receptacles

In CHBC buildings, two‑prong outlets can remain when adding a ground is impracticable, but replacements that the regular code requires to be GFCI‑protected must be replaced with GFCI protection; three‑prong receptacles need a grounding means (or GFCI protection) and any new grounding conductor for an extension must be tied to the grounding electrode system.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The CHBC allows some historic receptacle conditions to remain when it is impracticable to add an equipment grounding conductor, but sets clear limits when replacing or extending outlets. Key rules are in § 8-904.2.1, § 8-904.2.2, § 8-904.2.3 and § 8-904.2.4: nongrounding convenience outlets may remain where adding a grounding conductor is impracticable; replacements that are required by the regular code must be GFCI protected; grounding-type receptacles may not be used unless a grounding means exists or the receptacle is GFCI protected; and any new extension supplying grounding-type devices must have its equipment grounding conductor connected to the grounding electrode system.

The single most important rule: if there is no equipment grounding conductor and you cannot practicably add one, you may keep two‑prong outlets — but when you replace an outlet that the regular code requires to be GFCI‑protected, you must install a GFCI‑protected receptacle instead of an unprotected grounding‑type device.

(Definitions: equipment grounding conductor (EGC) = the conductor intended to connect equipment to the grounding electrode system; nongrounding type = two‑prong receptacle; grounding‑type receptacle = three‑prong receptacle; GFCI = ground fault circuit interrupter.)

Requirements in detail

1) When existing circuits without a ground can remain (summary of § 8-904.2.1)

If an existing branch circuit does not include an equipment grounding conductor and the enforcing agency finds it impracticable to add one, receptacle convenience outlets may remain the nongrounding type. § 8-904.2.1 .
Practical takeaway: historic two‑prong outlets are explicitly permitted to remain when grounding cannot reasonably be provided, subject to the enforcing agency’s review. § 8-904.2.1 .

2) Replacements where regular code requires GFCI protection (§ 8-904.2.2)

Where a replacement is made at a receptacle outlet that, under the regular (non‑historical) code in effect at the time of replacement, is required to be GFCI‑protected, the replacement receptacle shall be GFCI protected. § 8-904.2.2 .
If a metallic faceplate is used on a device supplied by a branch circuit without an EGC, the faceplate must be grounded either to a grounded metal outlet box or to the grounding‑type device (when used). § 8-904.2.2 .

3) Grounding‑type receptacles and GFCI option (§ 8-904.2.3)

Grounding‑type receptacles shall not be used without a grounding means in an existing receptacle outlet unless GFCI protected. § 8-904.2.3 .
Existing nongrounding receptacles may be replaced with either a nongrounding receptacle or a grounding‑type receptacle when supplied through a GFCI (i.e., the GFCI serves as the permitted protective measure in lieu of a physical EGC). § 8-904.2.3 .

4) Extending circuits and grounding the new extension (§ 8-904.2.4)

When extending an existing branch circuit that does not have an equipment‑grounding conductor, the extension may supply grounding‑type devices only if the new extension’s equipment grounding conductor is grounded to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system. § 8-904.2.4 .
In short: you can add a grounded run, but its EGC must be tied back to the building’s grounding electrode system at an accessible point. § 8-904.2.4 .

Quick decision table (decision‑relevant dimensions / values)

Situation	Allowed action(s)	Required condition / note	Code Reference
Existing branch circuit without EGC; adding EGC is impracticable	Keep existing two‑prong receptacles	Requires enforcing agency acceptance that adding EGC is impracticable	§ 8-904.2.1
Replacing an outlet that the regular code requires to be GFCI‑protected	Replacement must be GFCI‑protected	Applies even if branch circuit lacks an EGC	§ 8-904.2.2
Metallic faceplate on a device on a circuit without EGC	Faceplate must be grounded to box or device	Box must be grounded or device provides grounding connection	§ 8-904.2.2
Installing a grounding‑type (3‑prong) receptacle into an existing outlet	Permitted only if a grounding means exists or the device is GFCI‑protected	If GFCI used, it supplies the permitted protection in lieu of EGC	§ 8-904.2.3
Extending an ungrounded branch circuit and supplying grounding devices	Permitted only if the new extension’s EGC is connected to the grounding electrode system	Connection must be to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system	§ 8-904.2.4

Exceptions & special cases

The CHBC repeatedly uses the enforcing agency’s judgment: if they find adding a grounding conductor impracticable, nongrounding outlets may remain (agency discretion). § 8-904.2.1 .
The CHBC defers to the regular code for which outlets are required to be GFCI‑protected at the time of replacement — meaning you must check the then‑applicable regular code to determine which locations (kitchens, bathrooms, outdoors, etc.) require GFCI protection, and then apply § 8-904.2.2 when you replace. § 8-904.2.2 .
If you extend a circuit and add an EGC, that EGC must be tied to the grounding electrode system — you cannot simply bond to other random metalwork; connection must be to an accessible point on the grounding electrode system. § 8-904.2.4 .

Common mistakes

Assuming any replaced two‑prong receptacle may be swapped for a three‑prong without providing a ground — CHBC forbids grounding‑type receptacles in existing outlets without a grounding means unless the receptacle is GFCI‑protected. § 8-904.2.3 .
Replacing an outlet that the regular code requires to be GFCI‑protected with an unprotected three‑prong receptacle just because it’s in a historic building — CHBC requires GFCI protection in that situation. § 8-904.2.2 .
Failing to ground metallic faceplates when the circuit lacks an EGC — CHBC explicitly requires metallic faceplates be grounded to the outlet box or device in that situation. § 8-904.2.2 .
Extending an ungrounded run and supplying three‑prong devices without connecting the new EGC to the grounding electrode system — the CHBC requires this connection for any extension that supplies grounding‑type devices. § 8-904.2.4 .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: You are restoring a historic kitchen in a qualified CHBC building. There is an existing 120‑V branch circuit that only has hot and neutral (no ground). You need to replace one worn two‑prong receptacle located at the countertop.

Determine whether the regular code requires that countertop receptacle to be GFCI‑protected at the time you replace it. If the regular (non‑historical) code in effect requires GFCI protection for that location, then per § 8-904.2.2 the replacement receptacle must be GFCI protected. You cannot simply install a non‑GFCI three‑prong device unless you add an EGC. § 8-904.2.2 .
If you cannot practically run a new equipment grounding conductor to that outlet and the enforcing agency concurs it is impracticable, you may keep a nongrounding receptacle — or install a GFCI‑protected device (GFCI receptacle or GFCI at the feeder) to satisfy the replacement requirement. The CHBC permits replacing with either a nongrounding or grounding‑type device when the supply is GFCI‑protected. § 8-904.2.1, § 8-904.2.3 .
If the replacement device has a metallic faceplate and the box is not grounded, you must ground the faceplate to the grounded metal box or to the grounding connection provided by the grounding‑type device — otherwise the CHBC requires that the faceplate be grounded. § 8-904.2.2 .
If instead you choose to extend the branch circuit 40 feet and install a new run that includes a grounding conductor, that new EGC must be connected to the building’s grounding electrode system at any accessible point; only then may you supply grounding‑type devices on that extension. § 8-904.2.4 .

(Every step above is an application of the CHBC text; the CHBC does not list the specific rooms that the regular code protects — you must consult the regular code in effect to determine which locations require GFCI protection, then apply the CHBC replacement rule. § 8-904.2.2 .)

Related provisions (CHBC)

§ 8-904.1 — General application of the CHBC electrical provisions (scope that CHBC applies unless otherwise permitted).
§ 8-904.1.2 — Existing systems that do not constitute a safety hazard may remain in use (enforcing agency discretion).
§ 8-904.2.5 — Waiver or modification of receptacle spacing and related distance requirements if impracticable (enforcing agency discretion).
§ 8-904.2.6 — Special rules for replacement or extension of nongrounding lighting outlets (addresses grounding or insulation of lighting fixtures).

Code references

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

CHBC § 8-903.9 High relevance — show source text
8-903.9 Building sewers and private sewage disposal systems. New building sewers and new private sewage disposal systems shall comply with applicable requirements of the regular code.

20 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE

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

MECHANICAL, PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

8-903.10 Fuel-gas piping. Fuel-gas piping shall comply with the regular code requirements except that the enforcing agency shall accept solutions which do not increase the safety hazard.

SECTION 8-904 — ELECTRICAL

8-904.1 General. Electrical systems shall comply with the regular code unless otherwise permitted by this code, or approved by the authority having jurisdiction.

8-904.1.1 The provisions of the CHBC shall apply to the acceptance, location, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, replacement or addition of any electrical system or portion thereof, the premise wiring, or equipment fixed in place as related to restoration within or attached to a qualified historical building or property.

8-904.1.2 Existing systems, wiring methods and electrical equipment which do not, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, constitute a safety hazard may remain in use.

8-904.1.3 The enforcing agency may approve any alternative to the CHBC which achieves equivalent safety.

8-904.1.4 Archaic methods that do not appear in present codes may remain and may be extended if, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, they constitute a safe installation.

8-904.2 Wiring methods.

8-904.2.1 Where existing branch circuits do not include an equipment grounding conductor and, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, it is impracticable to connect an equipment grounding conductor to the grounding electrode system, receptacle convenience outlets may remain the nongrounding type.

8-904.2.2 Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected receptacles shall be installed where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be so protected by the regular code in effect at the time of replacement. Metallic face plates shall either be grounded to the grounded metal outlet box or be grounded to the grounding-type device when used with devices supplied by branch circuits without equipment grounding conductors.

8-904.2.3 Grounding-type receptacles shall not be used without a grounding means in an existing receptacle outlet unless GFCI protected. Existing nongrounding receptacles shall be permitted to be replaced with nongrounding or grounding-type receptacles where supplied through a ground fault circuit interrupter.

8-904.2.4 Extensions of existing branch circuits without equipment-grounding conductors shall be permitted to supply grounding-type devices only when the equipment grounding conductor of the new extension is grounded to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system.

8-904.2.5 Receptacle outlet spacing and other related distance requirements shall be waived or modified if determined to be impracticable by the enforcing agency.
CHBC § 8-904.1.3 High relevance — show source text
8-904.1.3 The enforcing agency may approve any alternative to the CHBC which achieves equivalent safety.

8-904.1.4 Archaic methods that do not appear in present codes may remain and may be extended if, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, they constitute a safe installation.

8-904.2 Wiring methods.

8-904.2.1 Where existing branch circuits do not include an equipment grounding conductor and, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, it is impracticable to connect an equipment grounding conductor to the grounding electrode system, receptacle convenience outlets may remain the nongrounding type.

8-904.2.2 Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected receptacles shall be installed where replacements are made at receptacle outlets that are required to be so protected by the regular code in effect at the time of replacement. Metallic face plates shall either be grounded to the grounded metal outlet box or be grounded to the grounding-type device when used with devices supplied by branch circuits without equipment grounding conductors.

8-904.2.3 Grounding-type receptacles shall not be used without a grounding means in an existing receptacle outlet unless GFCI protected. Existing nongrounding receptacles shall be permitted to be replaced with nongrounding or grounding-type receptacles where supplied through a ground fault circuit interrupter.

8-904.2.4 Extensions of existing branch circuits without equipment-grounding conductors shall be permitted to supply grounding-type devices only when the equipment grounding conductor of the new extension is grounded to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system.

8-904.2.5 Receptacle outlet spacing and other related distance requirements shall be waived or modified if determined to be impracticable by the enforcing agency.

8-904.2.6 For the replacement of lighting fixtures on an existing nongrounding lighting outlet, or when extending an existing nongrounding lighting outlet, the following shall apply:
1. The exposed conductive parts of lighting fixtures shall be connected to any acceptable point on the grounding electrode system, or
2. The lighting fixtures shall be made of insulating material and shall have no exposed conductive parts. Exception: Lighting fixtures mounted on electrically nonconductive ceilings or walls where located not less than either 8 feet (2438 mm) vertically or 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from grounded surfaces.
8-904.2.7 Lighting load calculations for services and feeders may be based on actual loads as installed in lieu of the “watts per square foot” method.

8-904.2.8 Determination of existing loads may be based on maximum demand recordings in lieu of calculations, provided all of the following are met:
1. Recordings are provided by the serving agency.
2. The maximum demand data is available for a one-year period. Exception: If maximum demand data for a one-year period is not available, the maximum demand data shall be permitted to be based on the actual amperes continuously recorded over a minimum 30-day period by a recording ammeter connected to the highest loaded phase of the feeder or service. The recording should reflect the maximum demand when the building or space is occupied and include the measured or calculated load at the peak time of the year, including the larger of the heating or cooling equipment load.
3. There has been no change in occupancy or character of load during the previous 12 months.
4. The anticipated load will not change, or the existing demand load at 125 percent plus the new load does not exceed the ampacity of the feeder or rating of the service.
CHBC § 7.3 Medium relevance — show source text
3|7.3|9.9|14.6| |26|NP|NP|NP|NP|13.2|22.4|NP|NP|5.0|8.5|11.4|16.9| |28|NP|NP|NP|NP|15.1|25.7|NP|NP|5.7|9.7|13.1|19.4| |30|NP|NP|NP|NP|17.2|NP|NP|NP|6.5|11.0|14.9|22.0| |32|NP|NP|NP|NP|19.4|NP|NP|NP|7.3|12.4|16.8|24.8| |34|NP|NP|NP|NP|21.7|NP|NP|NP|8.2|13.9|18.8|NP| |36|NP|NP|NP|NP|24.1|NP|NP|NP|9.1|15.4|20.9|NP| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 0.063 L/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NP = Not Permitted. Pressure loss exceeds reasonable limits.
a. Values are applicable for underground piping materials listed in_ the California Plumbing Code_ and are based on an SDR of 11 and a Hazen Williams C Factor of 150.
b. Values include the following length allowances for fittings: 25-percent length increase for actual lengths up to 100 feet and 15-percent length increase for actual lengths over
100 feet.
c. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2. Add 5 gpm to the flow rate required by Section_R309.3.4.2_ where the water service pipe supplies more than one dwelling.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 0.063 L/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NP = Not Permitted. Pressure loss exceeds reasonable limits.
a. Values are applicable for underground piping materials listed in_ the California Plumbing Code_ and are based on an SDR of 11 and a Hazen Williams C Factor of 150.
b. Values include the following length allowances for fittings: 25-percent length increase for actual lengths up to 100 feet and 15-percent length increase for actual lengths over
100 feet.
c. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2. Add 5 gpm to the flow rate required by Section_R309.3.4.2_ where the water service pipe supplies more than one dwelling.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 0.063 L/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NP = Not Permitted. Pressure loss exceeds reasonable limits.
a. Values are applicable for underground piping materials listed in_ the California Plumbing Code_ and are based on an SDR of 11 and a Hazen Williams C Factor of 150.
b. Values include the following length allowances for fittings: 25-percent length increase for actual lengths up to 100 feet and 15-percent length increase for actual lengths over
100 feet.
c. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
CHBC § 8-1 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISHES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1

801 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

802 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

803 Wall and Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

804 Interior Floor Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6

805 Combustible Materials in Types I and II Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

806 Decorative Materials and Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7

807 Insulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

808 Acoustical Ceiling Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8

CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE

SAFETY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1

901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

902 Fire Pump and Riser Room Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8

904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17

905 Standpipe Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20

906 Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22

907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25

908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43

909 Smoke Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43

910 Smoke and Heat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51

CHBC § 2.6.2 Medium relevance — show source text

Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	Col5	HCD	Col7	Col8	DSA	Col10	OSHPD	Col12	Col13	Col14	Col15	Col16	BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	T-24	T-19*	1	2	1/AC	AC	SS	1	1R	2	3	4	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)			X
Adopt only those sections that are listed below
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1]				X
Chapter / Section
903.2.6.2			X
903.2.7			X
903.2.8			X
903.2.8.2			X
903.2.8.3			X
903.2.8.4			X
903.2.10.2			X
Table 903.2.11.6			X
903.2.13 – 903.2.21			X
903.3.1.1			X
903.3.1.1.1			X
903.3.1.2			X
903.3.1.2.3			X
903.3.1.1.4			X
903.3.1.3			X
903.3.2			X
903.3.5			X
903.3.9			X
903.3.10			X
[T-19 §904 (a)(2)]				X
[T-19 §904 (c)]				X
[T-19 §904.7 (a-c)]				X
904.1.1			†
904.5			X
904.6			X
904.7			X
904.7.

CHBC § 8-5 Medium relevance — show source text
803 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

804 Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

805 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

806 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

807 Mechanical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

808 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

809 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10

CHAPTER 9 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3

901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

902 Special Use and Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

903 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

904 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

905 Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

906 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

907 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

908 Emergency Responder Communications Enhancement System Coverage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

CHAPTER 10 CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3

1001 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

1002 Special Use and Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

1003 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
CHBC § 8-8 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8-8 ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND METHODS OF

CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Section

8-801 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-802 General Engineering Approaches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-803 Nonstructural Archaic Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

8-804 Allowable Conditions for Specific Materials . . . . . . . 15 8-805 Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-806 Adobe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

8-807 Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

8-808 Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

8-809 Steel and Iron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

8-810 Hollow Clay Tile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

8-811 Veneers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

8-812 Glass and Glazing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

CHAPTER 8-9 MECHANICAL, PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Section

8-901 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 8-902 Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

8-903 Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 8-904 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

CHAPTER 8-10 QUALIFIED HISTORICAL DISTRICTS,

SITES AND OPEN SPACES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Section
CHBC § 901.6 Medium relevance — show source text
Division 1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |901.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §1.14]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §3.24]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904 (a)(1)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904 (b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (h)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (i)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |901.6.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.1 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (g)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Table 901.6.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.1 (b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (c)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (j)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |901.7|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.1 (c)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (d)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (e)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.2 (f)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |902.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §902.4 (b)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Fire Appliance|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §902.9 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §902.12 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §902.15 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §902.18 (a)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |903.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.1.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.1.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.4.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.5.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.6.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-1

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

CHAPTER 9 – FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS—continued
CHBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
with
hook embedded in mortar
jointe, f|No. 10 screw extending
through the steel framing
a minimum of three
exposed threads|Greater than 45/8 in.
between backing and
veneer|Maximum 65/8 in.
between backing and
veneer| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. All fasteners shall have rust-inhibitive coating suitable for the installation in which they are being used, or be manufactured from material not susceptible to corrosion.
b. An airspace that provides drainage shall be permitted to contain mortar from construction.
c. In Seismic Design Category D0, D1 or D2, the minimum tie fastener shall be an 8d ring-shank nail (21/2 in. × 0.131 in.).
d. Adjustable tie pintles shall include not fewer than 1 pintle leg of wire size W2.8 (MW18) with a maximum offset of 11/4 inches.
e. Adjustable tie pintles shall include not fewer than 2 pintle legs with a maximum offset of 11/4 inches. Distance between inside face of brick and end of pintle shall be a maxi-
mum of 2 inches.
f. Adjustable tie backing attachment components shall consist of one of the following: eyes with minimum wire W2.8 (MW18), barrel with minimum1/4-inch outside diameter, or
plate with minimum thickness of 0.074 inch and minimum width of 11/4 inches.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. All fasteners shall have rust-inhibitive coating suitable for the installation in which they are being used, or be manufactured from material not susceptible to corrosion.
b. An airspace that provides drainage shall be permitted to contain mortar from construction.
c. In Seismic Design Category D0, D1 or D2, the minimum tie fastener shall be an 8d ring-shank nail (21/2 in. × 0.131 in.).
d. Adjustable tie pintles shall include not fewer than 1 pintle leg of wire size W2.8 (MW18) with a maximum offset of 11/4 inches.
e. Adjustable tie pintles shall include not fewer than 2 pintle legs with a maximum offset of 11/4 inches. Distance between inside face of brick and end of pintle shall be a maxi-
mum of 2 inches.
f. Adjustable tie backing attachment components shall consist of one of the following: eyes with minimum wire W2.8 (MW18), barrel with minimum1/4-inch outside diameter, or
plate with minimum thickness of 0.074 inch and minimum width of 11/4 inches.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. All fasteners shall have rust-inhibitive coating suitable for the installation in which they are being used, or be manufactured from material not susceptible to corrosion.
b. An airspace that provides drainage shall be permitted to contain mortar from construction.
c. In Seismic Design Category D0, D1 or D2, the minimum tie fastener shall be an 8d ring-shank nail (21/2 in. × 0.131 in.).
d. Adjustable tie pintles shall include not fewer than 1 pintle leg of wire size W2.8 (MW18) with a maximum offset of 11/4 inches.
e.
CHBC § 8-3 Medium relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

CONTENTS

802 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

803 Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish in Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 804 Interior Wall and Ceiling Trim and Interior Floor Finish in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 805 Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 806 Natural Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 807 Decorative Materials and Artificial Decorative Vegetation in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . 8-10 808 Furnishings Other than Upholstered Furniture and Mattresses or Decorative Materials in New and Existing Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-14

CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY

SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

902 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-11

903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-13 904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems . 9-24 905 Standpipe Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28 906 Portable Fire Extinguishers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-31 907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39 908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 909 Smoke Control Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57 910 Smoke and Heat Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-66
CHBC § 8.2 Medium relevance — show source text
8.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.8.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.8.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.10.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |Table 903.2.11.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.2.13 – 903.2.21|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.1.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.1.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.1.2.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.1.1.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.1.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.9|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |903.3.10|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904 (a)(2)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904 (c)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |[T-19 §904.7 (a-c)]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |904.1.1|||†||||||||||||||||||||| |904.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.6|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.7|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.7.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.8.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.9|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.9.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.10|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.10.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.11.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.14|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.14.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |904.15|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.3.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.3.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.3.8.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |905.3.8.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

9-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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

CHAPTER 9 – FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS—continued

CHBC § 901.6 Medium relevance — show source text

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

CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 9 – FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	Col5	HCD	Col7	Col8	DSA	Col10	OSHPD	Col12	Col13	Col14	Col15	Col16	BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting Agency	BSC	BSC- CG	T-24	T-19*	1	2	1/AC	AC	SS	1	1R	2	3	4	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Adopt Entire Chapter
Adopt Entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)			X
Adopt only those sections that are listed below
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1]				X
Chapter / Section
901.6			X
[T-19 §1.14]				X
[T-19 §3.24]				X
[T-19 §904 (a)]				X
[T-19 §904 (a)(1)]				X
[T-19 §904 (b)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (a)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (b)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (h)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (i)]				X
901.6.1			X
[T-19 §904.1 (a)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (g)]				X
Table 901.6.1			X
[T-19 §904.1 (b)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (c)]				X
[T-19 §904.2 (j)]				X
901.7			X
[T-19 §904.1 (c)]				X
_[T-19 §904.

Frequently asked questions

Can I replace a two‑prong receptacle with a three‑prong one in a historic CHBC building?

Only if a grounding means exists or the replacement is GFCI‑protected as permitted by § 8-904.2.3. If no EGC is present and you do not provide one, you must use a GFCI‑protected device or keep a nongrounding receptacle with enforcing‑agency approval.

If I can’t practically run a ground, can I still replace outlets?

Yes — the CHBC allows existing nongrounding outlets to remain when the enforcing agency finds it impracticable to add an EGC, but replacements at locations that the regular code requires to be GFCI‑protected must be GFCI protected. § 8-904.2.1, § 8-904.2.2

Do metallic faceplates have special requirements?

Yes. Metallic faceplates must be grounded to a grounded metal outlet box or to the grounding‑type device when used on branch circuits without an EGC. § 8-904.2.2

If I extend an ungrounded circuit, can I power three‑prong devices on the extension?

Only if you install an equipment grounding conductor in the extension and connect that EGC to any accessible point on the grounding electrode system. § 8-904.2.4

Who decides what is "impracticable" to ground?

The enforcing agency for the CHBC (building official or AHJ) determines if adding an EGC is impracticable under § 8-904.2.1 and related CHBC provisions.

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