CMC · California Mechanical Code
Appliance location and service access
The CMC sets minimum clearances, access openings, platforms and means of access for appliances to ensure safe inspection, maintenance and removal.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
This area of the California Mechanical Code (CMC) governs where appliances may be placed and the access, clearances, platforms and service spaces required so appliances can be inspected, maintained, repaired and removed. The rules emphasize unobstructed working space, service openings and means of access for roofs, attics, garages and special locations to protect both service personnel and building occupants (see §304.1 and §305.0) .
Key requirements include minimum working clearances (unless otherwise specified), attic and under‑floor passageway and opening dimensions, permanently provided lighting and convenience outlets, and roof access and platforms where appliances are installed at elevation (see §304.1, §304.4 and §304.3) . The code also addresses location limits and protections for appliances in garages, pits and flood‑hazard areas (see §305.1 through §305.3) .
Practitioners should follow the CMC provisions together with appliance listings and manufacturer instructions; where the code references NFPA or other standards the referenced sections are incorporated by reference and applied to siting and access requirements in the CMC (see, e.g., instructions/installation requirements and listed‑appliance exceptions) .
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Mechanical Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CMC § 304.0 High relevance — show source text
304.0 Accessibility for Service. 304.1 General. All appliances shall be located with respect to building construction and other equipment so as to permit access for repair or replacement of the appliance. Clearance shall be maintained to permit removal of the appliance; cleaning of heating surfaces; the replacement of filters, blowers, motors, burners, controls, and vent connections; the lubrication of moving parts where necessary; the adjustment and cleaning of burners and pilots; and the proper functioning of explosion vents, if provided. For attic installation, the passageway and servicing area adjacent to the appliance shall be in accordance with Section 304.4. {NFPA 54:9.2.1}
Unless otherwise specified, clearances of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in depth, width, and height of working space shall be maintained.
Exception: A platform shall not be required for unit heaters or room heaters.
304.2 Sloped Roof. Where equipment or appliances that require service are installed on a roof having a slope of 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33 percent slope) or more, a level platform of not less than 30 inches by 30 inches (762 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided at the service side of the equipment or appliance. 304.3 Access to Appliances on Roofs. Appliances located on roofs or other elevated locations shall be accessible. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.1]
304.3.1 Access from the Inside. Buildings of more than 15 feet (4572 mm) in height shall have an inside means of access to the roof unless other means acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction are used. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.2]
304.3.1.1 Access Type. The inside means of access shall be a permanent or foldaway inside stairway or ladder, terminating in an enclosure, scuttle, or trapdoor. Such scuttles or trapdoors shall be at least 22 inches by 24 inches (559 mm by 610 mm) in size, shall open easily and safely under all conditions, especially snow, and shall be constructed so as to permit access from the roof side unless deliberately locked on the inside.
At least 6 feet (1829 mm) of clearance shall be available between the access opening and the edge of the roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed rails or guards a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) in height shall be provided on the exposed side. Where parapets or other building structures are utilized in lieu of guards or rails, they shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) in height. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.3]
304.3.1.2 Permanent Ladders. Permanent lad ders required by Section 304.3.1.1 shall be constructed in accordance with the following:
(1) Side railings shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the roof or parapet wall.
(2) Landings shall not exceed 18 feet (5486 mm) apart measured from the finished grade.
(3) Width shall be not less than 14 inches (356 mm)
on center.
(4) Rungs spacing shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) on center, and each rung shall be capable of supporting a 300 pound (136.1 kg) load.
(5) Toe space shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm).
CMC § 305.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text
305.1.2 Access from the Outside. Where appliances are installed in a separate, enclosed space having access only from outside of the garage, such appliances shall be permitted to be installed at floor level, providing the required combustion air is taken from the exterior of the garage. [NFPA 54:9.1.10.3] 305.1.3 Cellulose Nitrate Plastic Storage. Heating equipment located in rooms where cellulose nitrate plastic is stored or processed shall be in accordance with the fire code.
305.2 Pit Location. Where excavation is necessary to install an appliance, the depth shall extend not less than 6 inches (152 mm) below and 12 inches (305 mm) on all sides of the appliance, except on the service side, which shall have 30 inches (762 mm). Where the depth of the excavation for either the appliance or passageway exceeds 12 inches (305 mm), walls shall be lined with concrete or masonry 4 inches (102 mm) above the adjoining ground level. Exception: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) appliances as described in Section 303.7.1. 305.3 Flood Hazard Areas. For buildings located in flood hazard areas, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, miscellaneous heat-producing, and energy-utilizing equipment and appliances shall be elevated at or above the elevation in accordance with the building code for utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest floor, whichever is higher. Exception: Equipment and appliances shall be permitted to be located below the elevation in accordance with the build
ing code for utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest floor, whichever is higher, provided that the systems are designed and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating within their components and the systems are constructed to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding to such elevation.
305.3.1 Coastal High Hazard Areas. Mechanical systems in buildings located in coastal high hazard areas shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 305.3, and mechanical systems, pipes, and appurtenances shall not be mounted on or penetrate through walls that are intended to breakaway under flood loads in accordance with the building code.
305.3.2 Air Exhaust and Intake Openings. Outside air exhaust openings and air intake openings shall be located at or above the elevation required by the building code for utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest floor, whichever is higher.
305.4 Elevator Shaft. Unless required for the functionality and safety of the elevator system, mechanical systems shall not be located in an elevator shaft.
305.5 Drainage Pan. Where a water heater is located in an attic, in or on an attic ceiling assembly, floor-ceiling assembly, floor-subfloor assembly or where damage results from a leaking water heater, a watertight pan of corrosion-resistant materials shall be installed beneath the water heater in accordance with the following: (1) The drainage pan shall be provided with not less than [3] ⁄ 4 of an inch (20 mm) diameter drain to an approved location. The terminating end of the drainpipe shall be readily visible. (2) The drainage pan shall be not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 2 inches (38 mm) in depth.
CMC § 304.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
304.3.2 Permanent Lighting. Permanent lighting shall be provided at the roof access. The switch for such lighting shall be located inside the building near the access means leading to the roof. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.4]
304.4 Appliances in Attics and Under-Floor Spaces. An attic or under-floor space in which an appliance is installed shall be accessible through an opening and passageway larger than the largest component of the appliance, and not less than 22 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm). {NFPA 54:9.5.1}
304.4.1 Length of Passageway. Where the height of the passageway is less than 6 feet (1829 mm), the distance from the passageway access to the appliance shall not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm) measured along the centerline of the passageway. [NFPA 54:9.5.1.1] Where the height of the passageway is 6 feet (1829 mm) or more, the distance from the passageway access to the appliance shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm) measured along the centerline of the passageway.
304.4.2 Width of Passageway. The passageway shall be unobstructed and shall have solid flooring not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide from the entrance opening to the appliance. [NFPA 54:9.5.1.2]
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GENERAL REGULATIONS
304.4.3 Work Platform. A level working platform not less than 30 inches by 30 inches (762 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided in front of the service side of the appliance. [NFPA 54:9.5.2]
Exception: A working platform need not be provided where the furnace is capable of being serviced from the required access opening. The furnace service side shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) from the access opening. 304.4.4 Lighting and Convenience Outlet. A permanent 120 V receptacle outlet and a luminaire shall be installed near the appliance. The switch controlling the luminaire shall be located at the entrance to the passageway. [NFPA 54:9.5.3]
305.0 Location.
305.1 Installation in Residential Garages. Appliances in residential garages and in adjacent spaces that open to the garage and are not part of the living space of a dwelling unit shall be installed so that all heating elements, switches, burners, and burner-ignition devices are located not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor. Exception: Listed flammable vapor ignition resistant (FVIR) appliances. {NFPA 54:9.1.10.1} 305.1.1 Physical Damage. Appliances installed in garages, warehouses, or other areas subject to mechanical damage shall be guarded against such damage by being installed behind protective barriers or by being elevated or located out of the normal path of vehicles. **305.1.2 Access from the Outside.
CMC § 1106.2.6. Medium relevance — show source text
(1) The space(s) containing the machinery is (are) separated from other occupancies by tight construction with tightfitting doors.
(2) Access is restricted to authorized personnel.
(3) Refrigerant detectors are installed with the sensing location and alarm level as required in refrigeration machinery rooms in accordance with Section 1106.2.6.
(4) Open flames and surfaces exceeding 800°F (427°C) shall not be permitted where a Group A2, B2, A3, or B3 refrigerant, is used.
(5) Electrical equipment that is in accordance with Class 1, Division 2, of NFPA 70 where the quantity of a Group A2, B2, A3, or B3 refrigerant in an independent circuit is capable of exceeding 25 percent of the lower flammability limit (LFL) upon release to the space based on the volume determined in accordance with Section 1104.2.1 through Section 1104.2.3.
(6) Refrigerant containing parts in systems exceeding 100 horsepower (74.6 kW) compressor drive power, except evaporators used for refrigeration or dehumidification, condensers used for heating, control and pressure-relief valves for either, low-probability pumps, and connecting piping, are located in a machinery room or outdoors.
[ASHRAE 15:7.2.2]
1104.5 Flammable Refrigerants. The total of Group A2, B2, A3, and B3 refrigerants, other than Group A2L and B2L refrigerants shall not exceed 1100 pounds (498.9 kg) without approval by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Institutional Occupancies shall comply with Section 1104.3. Machinery rooms required in accordance with Section 1106.0 based on flammability shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with Section 1106.2.1 through Section 1106.2.6 and Section 1106.11 for Group A2L and B2L refrigerants. 1104.6 Group A2L Refrigerants for Human Comfort. High-probability systems using Group A2L refrigerants for human comfort applications shall comply with this section.
[ASHRAE 15:7.6]
1104.6.1 Refrigerant Concentration Limits. Occupied spaces shall comply with the releasable charge limitations of the equipment listing and ASHRAE 15. Unoccupied spaces with refrigerant containing equipment, not including continuous piping or tubing, shall comply with the releasable charge limitations of the equipment listing or Section 1104.6.4. {ASHRAE 15:7.6.1-7.6.1.2}
1104.6.2 Listing and Installation Requirements. Refrigeration systems shall be listed and shall be installed in accordance with listing, the manufacturer’s instructions, and any markings on the equipment restricting the installation. [ASHRAE 15:7.6.2]
1104.6.2.1 Nameplate. The nameplate required by Section 1115.5 shall include a symbol indicating that a flammable refrigerant is used, as specified by the product listing. [ASHRAE 15:7.6.2.1]
1104.6.2.2 Labeling. A label indicating a flammable refrigerant is used shall be placed adjacent to service ports and other locations where service involving components containing refrigerant is performed, as specified by the product listing.
CMC § 9.1.20 Medium relevance — show source text
** The installer shall conform to the appliance and equipment manufacturers’ recommendations in completing an installation. The installer shall leave the manufacturers’ installation, operating, and maintenance instructions on the premises. [NFPA 54:9.1.20] 507.24 Protection of Outdoor Appliances. Appliances not listed for outdoor installation but installed outdoors shall be provided with protection to the degree that the environment requires. Appliances listed for outdoor installation shall be permitted to be installed without protection in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:9.1.21] 507.25 Accessibility for Service. All appliances shall be located with respect to building construction and other equipment so as to permit access for repair or replacement of the appliance. Clearance shall be maintained to permit removal of the appliance; cleaning of heating surfaces; the replacement of filters, blowers, motors, burners, controls, and vent connections; the lubrication of moving parts where necessary; the adjustment and cleaning of burners and pilots; and the proper functioning of explosion vents, if provided. For attic installation, the passageway and servicing area adjacent to the appliance shall be in accordance with Section 508.4. {NFPA 54:9.2.1}
Unless otherwise specified, clearances of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in depth, width, and height of working space shall be maintained. 507.26 Clearance to Combustible Materials. Appliances and their vent connectors shall be installed with clearances from combustible material so their operation does not create a hazard to persons or property. Minimum clearances between combustible walls and the back and sides of various conventional types of appliances and their vent connectors are specified in Section 509.0. [NFPA 54:9.2.2]
508.0 Appliances on Roofs, in Attics or Under-Floor Spaces. 508.1 General. Appliances on roofs shall be designed or enclosed so as to withstand climatic conditions in the area in which they are installed. Where enclosures are provided, each enclosure shall permit easy entry and movement, shall be of reasonable height, and shall have at least a 30 inch (762 mm) clearance between the entire service access panel(s) of the appliance, and the wall of the enclosure. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.1] 508.1.1 Load Capacity. Roofs on which appliances are to be installed shall be capable of supporting the additional load or shall be reinforced to support the additional load. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.2]
508.1.2 Fasteners. All access locks, screws, and bolts shall be of corrosion-resistant material. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.3]
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WATER HEATERS
are utilized in lieu of guards or rails, they shall be a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) in height. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.3] 508.3.3 Permanent Lighting. Permanent lighting shall be provided at the roof access. The switch for such lighting shall be located inside the building near the access means leading to the roof. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.4] **508.4 Appliances in Attics and Under-Floor Spaces.
CMC § 303.10.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
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GENERAL REGULATIONS
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303.10.1.3 Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances. For solid-fuel-burning appliances, the clearance shall not be less than 12 inches (305 mm) to combustible walls and not less than 18 inches (457 mm) to combustible ceilings. The clearance, after reduction, shall be permitted to be less than 12 inches (305 mm) to combustible walls and less than 18 inches (457 mm) to combustible ceilings. Solid-fuel-burning appliances listed for lesser clearances shall be permitted to be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing. 303.11 Installation in Commercial Garages. Appliances installed in commercial garages shall be in accordance with Section 303.11.1 through Section 303.11.2. 303.11.1 Parking Structures. Appliances installed in enclosed, basement, and underground parking structures shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 88A. [NFPA 54:9.1.11.1] 303.11.2 Repair Garages. Appliances installed in repair garages shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 30A. [NFPA 54:9.1.11.2]
303.12 Installation in Aircraft Hangars. Heaters in aircraft hangars shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 409.
[NFPA 54:9.1.12]
304.0 Accessibility for Service. 304.1 General. All appliances shall be located with respect to building construction and other equipment so as to permit access for repair or replacement of the appliance. Clearance shall be maintained to permit removal of the appliance; cleaning of heating surfaces; the replacement of filters, blowers, motors, burners, controls, and vent connections; the lubrication of moving parts where necessary; the adjustment and cleaning of burners and pilots; and the proper functioning of explosion vents, if provided. For attic installation, the passageway and servicing area adjacent to the appliance shall be in accordance with Section 304.4. {NFPA 54:9.2.1}
Unless otherwise specified, clearances of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in depth, width, and height of working space shall be maintained.
Exception: A platform shall not be required for unit heaters or room heaters.
304.2 Sloped Roof. Where equipment or appliances that require service are installed on a roof having a slope of 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33 percent slope) or more, a level platform of not less than 30 inches by 30 inches (762 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided at the service side of the equipment or appliance. 304.3 Access to Appliances on Roofs. Appliances located on roofs or other elevated locations shall be accessible. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.1]
304.3.1 Access from the Inside. Buildings of more than 15 feet (4572 mm) in height shall have an inside means of access to the roof unless other means acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction are used. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.2]
CMC § 304.4.3 Medium relevance — show source text
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GENERAL REGULATIONS
304.4.3 Work Platform. A level working platform not less than 30 inches by 30 inches (762 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided in front of the service side of the appliance. [NFPA 54:9.5.2]
Exception: A working platform need not be provided where the furnace is capable of being serviced from the required access opening. The furnace service side shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) from the access opening. 304.4.4 Lighting and Convenience Outlet. A permanent 120 V receptacle outlet and a luminaire shall be installed near the appliance. The switch controlling the luminaire shall be located at the entrance to the passageway. [NFPA 54:9.5.3]
305.0 Location.
305.1 Installation in Residential Garages. Appliances in residential garages and in adjacent spaces that open to the garage and are not part of the living space of a dwelling unit shall be installed so that all heating elements, switches, burners, and burner-ignition devices are located not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor. Exception: Listed flammable vapor ignition resistant (FVIR) appliances. {NFPA 54:9.1.10.1} 305.1.1 Physical Damage. Appliances installed in garages, warehouses, or other areas subject to mechanical damage shall be guarded against such damage by being installed behind protective barriers or by being elevated or located out of the normal path of vehicles. 305.1.2 Access from the Outside. Where appliances are installed in a separate, enclosed space having access only from outside of the garage, such appliances shall be permitted to be installed at floor level, providing the required combustion air is taken from the exterior of the garage. [NFPA 54:9.1.10.3] 305.1.3 Cellulose Nitrate Plastic Storage. Heating equipment located in rooms where cellulose nitrate plastic is stored or processed shall be in accordance with the fire code.
305.2 Pit Location. Where excavation is necessary to install an appliance, the depth shall extend not less than 6 inches (152 mm) below and 12 inches (305 mm) on all sides of the appliance, except on the service side, which shall have 30 inches (762 mm). Where the depth of the excavation for either the appliance or passageway exceeds 12 inches (305 mm), walls shall be lined with concrete or masonry 4 inches (102 mm) above the adjoining ground level. Exception: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) appliances as described in Section 303.7.1. 305.3 Flood Hazard Areas. For buildings located in flood hazard areas, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, miscellaneous heat-producing, and energy-utilizing equipment and appliances shall be elevated at or above the elevation in accordance with the building code for utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest floor, whichever is higher. Exception: Equipment and appliances shall be permitted to be located below the elevation in accordance with the build
CMC § 508.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
508.3.1 Access. Buildings of more than 15 feet (4572 mm) in height shall have an inside means of access to the roof, unless other means acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction are used. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.2] 508.3.2 Access Type. The inside means of access shall be a permanent or foldaway inside stairway or ladder, terminating in an enclosure, scuttle, or trapdoor. Such scuttles or trapdoors shall be at least 22 inches by 24 inches (559 mm by 610 mm) in size, shall open easily and safely under all conditions, especially snow, and shall be constructed so as to permit access from the roof side unless deliberately locked on the inside.
At least 6 feet (1829 mm) of clearance shall be available between the access opening and the edge of the roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed rails or guards a minimum of 42 inches (1067 mm) in height shall be provided on the exposed side. Where parapets or other building structures
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bustion chamber. Bleed lines shall not terminate in positive-pressure-type combustion chambers. [NFPA 54:9.1.18]
507.22 Combination of Appliances and Equipment. Any combination of appliances, equipment, attachments, or devices used together in any manner shall comply with the standards that apply to the individual appliance and equipment. [NFPA 54:9.1.19]
507.23 Installation Instructions. The installer shall conform to the appliance and equipment manufacturers’ recommendations in completing an installation. The installer shall leave the manufacturers’ installation, operating, and maintenance instructions on the premises. [NFPA 54:9.1.20] 507.24 Protection of Outdoor Appliances. Appliances not listed for outdoor installation but installed outdoors shall be provided with protection to the degree that the environment requires. Appliances listed for outdoor installation shall be permitted to be installed without protection in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:9.1.21] 507.25 Accessibility for Service. All appliances shall be located with respect to building construction and other equipment so as to permit access for repair or replacement of the appliance. Clearance shall be maintained to permit removal of the appliance; cleaning of heating surfaces; the replacement of filters, blowers, motors, burners, controls, and vent connections; the lubrication of moving parts where necessary; the adjustment and cleaning of burners and pilots; and the proper functioning of explosion vents, if provided. For attic installation, the passageway and servicing area adjacent to the appliance shall be in accordance with Section 508.4. {NFPA 54:9.2.1}
Unless otherwise specified, clearances of not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in depth, width, and height of working space shall be maintained. 507.26 Clearance to Combustible Materials. Appliances and their vent connectors shall be installed with clearances from combustible material so their operation does not create a hazard to persons or property. Minimum clearances between combustible walls and the back and sides of various conventional types of appliances and their vent connectors are specified in Section 509.0. [NFPA 54:9.2.2]
CMC § 514.4.9 Medium relevance — show source text
514.4.9 Access Panels and Cover Plates. When cleaning procedures are completed, all access panels (doors) and cover plates shall be restored to their normal operational condition. [NFPA 96:12.6.9]
514.4.10 Date of Inspection. When an access panel is removed, a service company label or tag preprinted with the name of the company and giving the date of inspection or cleaning shall be affixed near the affected access panels.
[NFPA 96:12.6.10]
514.4.11 Airflow. Dampers and diffusers shall be positioned for proper airflow. [NFPA 96:12.6.11] 514.4.12 Operable State. When cleaning procedures are completed, all electrical switches and system components shall be returned to an operable state. [NFPA 96:12.6.12]
514.4.13 Certification of Service. When an exhaust system is inspected or cleaned, a certificate showing the name of the servicing company, the name of the person performing the work, and the date of inspection or cleaning shall be maintained on the premises. [NFPA 96:12.6.13]
514.4.14 Report Provided. After cleaning or inspection is completed, the exhaust cleaning company and the person performing the work at the location shall provide the owner of the system with a written report that also specifies areas that were inaccessible or not cleaned. [NFPA 96:12.6.14]
514.4.15 Unclean Area. Where required, certificates of inspection and cleaning and reports of areas not cleaned shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
[NFPA 96:12.6.15]
514.4.16 Metal Containers. Metal containers used to collect grease drippings shall be inspected or emptied at least weekly. [NFPA 96:12.6.16] 514.5 Cooking Equipment Maintenance. Inspection and servicing of the cooking equipment shall be made at least annually by properly trained and qualified persons. [NFPA 96:12.7.1] 514.5.1 Cleaning. Cooking equipment that collects grease below the surface, behind the equipment, or in cooking equipment flue gas exhaust, such as griddles, deep-fat fryers, or charbroilers, shall be inspected and, if found with grease accumulation, cleaned by a properly trained, qualified, and certified person(s) acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. [NFPA 96:12.7.2]
515.0 Minimum Safety Requirements for Cooking Equipment. 515.1 Cooking Equipment. Cooking equipment shall be approved based on one of the following criteria:
(1) Listings by a testing laboratory.
(2) Test data acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
[NFPA 96:13.1.1]
515.1.1 Installation. All listed appliances shall be installed in accordance with the terms of their listings and the manufacturer’s instructions. Solid fuel used for flavoring within a gas-operated appliance shall be in a solid fuel holder (smoker box) that is listed with the equipment.
[NFPA 96:13.1.2.1, 13.1.2.1.1]
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EXHAUST SYSTEMS
CMC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
(1) Unit heaters shall be installed with clearances from combustible material of not less than 18 inches (457 mm) at the sides, 12 inches (305 mm) at the bottom, and 6 inches (152 mm) above the top where the unit heater has an internal draft hood, or 1 inch (25.4 mm) above the top of the sloping side of a vertical draft hood. A unit heater listed for reduced clearances shall be installed in accordance with its listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
(2) Clearances for servicing shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. {NFPA 54:10.24.3}
916.3.1 Floor-Mounted-Type Unit Heaters. Floormounted-type unit heaters shall comply with the following requirements:
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INSTALLATION OF SPECIFIC APPLIANCES
permitted where protected in accordance with Table 303.10.1.
[NFPA 54:10.11.5] 917.6 Use with Casters. Floor-mounted appliances with casters shall be listed for such construction and shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions for limiting the movement of the appliance to prevent strain on the connection. [NFPA 54:10.11.6]
917.7 Level Installation. Floor-mounted food service appliances shall be installed level on a firm foundation.
[NFPA 54:10.11.7]
917.8 Ventilation. Means shall be provided to properly ventilate the space in which a food service appliance is installed to permit proper combustion of the gas. [NFPA 54:10.11.8]
918.0 Food Service Appliances, Counter Appliances.
918.1 Application. Food service counter appliances shall be listed in accordance with ANSI Z83.11/CSA 1.8. [NFPA 54:10.12.1]
918.2 Vertical Clearance. A vertical distance of not less than 48 inches (1219 mm) shall be provided between the top of all food service hot plates and griddles and combustible material. [NFPA 54:10.12.2]
918.3 Clearance for Listed Appliances. Listed food service counter appliances such as hot plates and griddles, food and dish warmers, and coffee brewers and urns, where installed on combustible surfaces, shall be set on their own bases or legs and shall be installed with a horizontal clearance of not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from combustible material, except that not less than a 2 inches (51 mm) clearance shall be maintained between a draft hood and combustible material. Food service counter appliances listed for installation at lesser clearances shall be installed in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
918.4 Clearance for Unlisted Appliances. Food service counter appliances, where installed on combustible surfaces, shall be installed with a minimum horizontal clearance of 6 inches (152 mm) from combustible material, except that at least a 2 inch (51 mm) clearance shall be maintained between a draft hood and combustible material. Food service counter appliances listed for installation at lesser clearances shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:10.12.3]
CMC § 303.5 Medium relevance — show source text
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GENERAL REGULATIONS
accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Supports for appliances shall be designed and constructed to sustain vertical and horizontal loads within the stress limita tions specified in the building code.
303.5 Restraining Device. Movement of appliances with casters shall be limited by a restraining device installed in accordance with the connector and appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:9.6.1.4]
303.6 Identification of Equipment. Where more than one heating, cooling, ventilating, or refrigerating system is installed on the roof of a building or within a building, it shall be permanently identified as to the area or space served by the equipment.
303.7 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) Facilities. Containers, container valves regulating equipment, and appurtenances for the storage and supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LP-Gas) shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 58 and the California Fire Code .
303.7.1 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP-Gas) Appli- ances. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Liquefied petroleum gas- burning appliances shall not be installed in a pit, basement, or similar location where heavier-than-air gas might collect. Appliances so fueled shall not be installed in an above-grade under-floor space or basement unless such location is provided with an approved means for removal of unburned gas.
303.8 Appliances on Roofs. Appliances on roofs shall be designed or enclosed so as to withstand climatic conditions in the area in which they are installed. Where enclosures are provided, each enclosure shall permit easy entry and movement, shall be of reasonable height, and shall have at least a 30 inch (762 mm) clearance between the entire service access panel(s) of the appliance and the wall of the enclosure. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.1]
303.8.1 Load Capacity. Roofs on which appliances are to be installed shall be capable of supporting the additional load or shall be reinforced to support the additional load. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.2]
303.8.2 Fasteners. All access locks, screws, and bolts shall be of corrosion-resistant material. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.3]
303.8.3 Installation of Appliances on Roofs. Appliances shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:9.4.2.1]
303.8.4 Edge of Roof Clearance. Appliances shall be installed on a well-drained surface of the roof. At least 6 feet (1829 mm) of clearance shall be available between any part of the appliance and the edge of a roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed rails, guards, parapets, or other building structures at least 42 inches (1067 mm) in height shall be provided on the exposed side. [NFPA 54:9.4.2.2]
303.8.4.1 Guards and Rails. Guards or rails shall be required where the following exist:
CMC § 1305.2 Medium relevance — show source text
1305.2 Outlets. It shall be unlawful to turn on or connect gas in or on the premises unless outlets are securely connected to gas appliances or capped or plugged with screw joint fittings.
1306.0 Authority to Disconnect. 1306.1 Disconnection. The Authority Having Jurisdiction or the serving gas supplier is hereby authorized to disconnect gas piping or appliance or both that shall be found not to be in accordance with the requirements of this code or that are found defective and in such condition as to endanger life or property.
1306.2 Notice. Where such disconnection has been made, a notice shall be attached to such gas piping or appliance or both that shall state the same has been disconnected, together with the reasons thereof.
1306.3 Capped Outlets. It shall be unlawful to remove or disconnect gas piping or gas appliance without capping or plugging with a screw joint fitting, the outlet from which said pipe or appliance was removed. Outlets to which gas appliances are not connected shall be left capped and gastight on a piping system that has been installed, altered, or repaired.
Exception: Where an approved listed quick-disconnect device is used.
1307.0 Temporary Use of Gas. 1307.1 General. Where temporary use of gas is desired, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction deems the use necessary, a permit shall be permitted to be issued for such use for a period of time not to exceed that designated by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, provided that such gas piping system otherwise is in accordance with to the requirements of this code regarding material, sizing, and safety.
1308.0 Gas Piping System Design, Materials, and Components. 1308.1 Installation of Piping System. Where required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, a piping sketch or plan shall be prepared before proceeding with the installation. The plan shall show the proposed location of piping, the size of different branches, the various load demands, and the location of the point of delivery. [NFPA 54:5.1.1] 1308.1.1 Addition to Existing System. When additional appliances are being connected to a gas piping system, the existing piping shall be checked to determine whether it has adequate capacity. If the capacity of the system is determined to be inadequate for the additional appliances, the existing system shall be enlarged as required, or separate gas piping of adequate capacity shall be provided. [NFPA 54:5.1.2] 1308.2 Interconnections Supplying Separate Users. Where two or more meters, or two or more service regulators where meters are not provided, are located on the same premises and supply separate users, the gas piping systems shall not be interconnected on the outlet side of the meters or service regulators. [NFPA 54:5.2.1] 1308.2.1 Interconnections for Standby Fuels. Where a supplementary gas for standby use is connected downstream from a meter or a service regulator where a meter is not provided, equipment to prevent backflow shall be installed. A three-way valve installed to admit the standby supply and at the same time shut off the reg
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276 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
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Frequently asked questions
What minimum working clearances does the CMC require for appliance servicing?
Unless a specific appliance listing or manufacturer instruction provides otherwise, the CMC requires working space of not less than 30 inches in depth, width and height for service access to appliances (see §304.1) .
How must attic or under‑floor appliances be accessed?
An attic or under‑floor space containing an appliance must have an access opening and passageway larger than the appliance and at least 22 inches by 30 inches; the passageway must meet length and width limits, have solid flooring and provide a work platform, permanent lighting and a 120 V convenience outlet at the appliance entrance where required (see §304.4, §304.4.1, §304.4.2 and §304.4.4) .
Are rooftop appliances required to have inside access or platforms?
Yes. Appliances on roofs must be accessible; buildings over 15 feet typically require an inside means of access to the roof, sloped roofs needing a level platform at the service side, and sufficient clearance or guards at roof edges — the CMC sets these requirements and related platform/guarding provisions (see §304.3.1 and §304.2, and related rooftop clearance rules in §303.8.4) .
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