CRC · California Residential Code
When is impact protection required for ESS and what are garage placement rules?
If a home battery sits where a car could hit it — specifically inside the garage driving path (the door width across to the back wall up to 48 in high) or within the lateral/side distances the code lists — California’s Residential Code requires impact protection. The code lists exact distances, a low‑opening exception, and approved protection methods (bollards or wheel barriers) with precise sizes and spacing in **§ R330.8**, **§ R330.8.1** and **§ R330.8.3**. file
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Per § R330.8 an energy storage system (ESS) that is located where it can be struck by a vehicle must have impact protection. Where the ESS is in the normal driving path of a garage (as defined) or in other locations subject to vehicle damage the required protection must comply with the impact-protection options in § R330.8.3. Specific distances, heights and construction methods (bollards, wheel stops or engineered barriers) are given in § R330.8.1 and § R330.8.3.
The single most important rule: if an ESS sits where a car can hit it (the garage driving path or nearby), you must protect it with the specified bollards, wheel barriers, or an approved barrier per § R330.8.1 and § R330.8.3.
Requirements in detail
Where the rule applies (definition of the driving path)
- Normal driving path — the space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall up to 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor; the path width equals the garage door opening width. If an ESS is installed in that space, impact protection is required per § R330.8.1.
When impact protection is required
- ESS located inside the normal driving path requires protection.
- ESS installed on the back wall but within 36 inches (914 mm) left or right of the normal driving path requires protection.
- ESS on a side wall within 24 inches (610 mm) of the back wall and 36 inches (914 mm) of the normal driving path requires protection. These placement limits come from § R330.8.1.
Exception for low garage openings
- Exception (garage clear height ≤ 7 ft 6 in / 2286 mm): If the garage opening clear height is 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) or less and the ESS is installed not less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the finished floor, vehicle impact protection is not required. This exception is in § R330.8.1.
Approved impact protection options (summary)
Per § R330.8.3, acceptable protections include bollards, wheel barriers, or an approved engineered method. Key required dimensions/values are in the table below.
| Decision dimension | Required value(s) | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of normal driving path height | 48 in (1219 mm) above finished floor | § R330.8.1 |
| Back wall lateral trigger distance | 36 in (914 mm) left/right of driving path | § R330.8.1 |
| Side wall trigger distances | 24 in (610 mm) from back wall AND 36 in (914 mm) from driving path | § R330.8.1 |
| Low-clearance exception | Garage opening clear height ≤ 7 ft 6 in (2286 mm) AND ESS mounted ≥ 36 in (914 mm) above floor — no protection required | § R330.8.1 |
| Bollard option — embedded | 48 in length Schedule 80 pipe, 3 in dia, embed in concrete pier ≥ 12 in deep × 6 in dia, at least 36 in exposed; spacing ≤ 5 ft (1524 mm); bollard ≥ 6 in from ESS | § R330.8.3 (1.1) |
| Bollard option — surface-mounted | 36 in height Schedule 80 pipe, 3 in dia, welded to 8 in × 1/4 in plate, bolted to floor with four 1/2‑in anchors, spacing ≤ 60 in (1524 mm); bollard ≥ 6 in from ESS | § R330.8.3 (1.2) |
| Premanufactured bollards | Manufacturer-installed equivalent; spacing ≤ 60 in (1524 mm); bollard ≥ 6 in from ESS | § R330.8.3 (1.3) |
| Wheel barrier option (concrete/polymer) | 4 in high × 5 in wide × 70 in long; anchored every 36 in (914 mm); barrier located ≥ 54 in (1372 mm) from ESS | § R330.8.3 (2.1) |
| Premanufactured wheel barriers | Anchored per manufacturer instructions; spacing per § R330.8.3 | § R330.8.3 (2.2) |
| Engineered barrier performance option | Designed to resist 2,000 lb/ft² at 24 in (610 mm) above grade in the direction of travel | § R330.8.3 (3) |
How to measure and apply these values
- Measure garage clear height at the garage vehicle opening (finished clear opening). Compare to 7 ft 6 in (2286 mm) for the exception. § R330.8.1 governs the exception.
- Locate the normal driving path using the garage door opening width and the back wall up to 48 in high; any ESS inside that footprint or within the lateral/side distances above requires protection.
- If protection is required, choose one of the options in § R330.8.3 and build/install to the exact dimensions and spacing shown.
Exceptions & special cases
- Low garage opening: If the opening clear height is ≤ 7 ft 6 in and the ESS is installed ≥ 36 in above the finished floor, impact protection is not required (see § R330.8.1). This is often used for low‑profile single‑car garages.
- Other locations: If the ESS is outside the garage-driving-path definition but still subject to vehicle impact (for example, in a driveway alcove or next to a parking space), § R330.8.2 directs that impact protection per § R330.8.3 is required. (R330.8.2 references R330.8.3.)
- Listed/labeled exceptions: The general scope of R330 excludes ESS listed and installed for habitable spaces per their listing and ESS < 1 kWh — see § R330.1 for scope exceptions (these can affect applicability). Note: R330.1 is not an impact‑protection exception; it addresses scope/listing.
Common mistakes
- Measuring from the wrong point: the code uses the garage vehicle opening clear width and 48 in height for the normal driving path — do not substitute overall garage interior width. See § R330.8.1.
- Assuming any bollard equals compliance: bollards must meet the specific sizes, embedment/anchorage and spacing in § R330.8.3; a random steel post or furniture is not acceptable.
- Forgetting the low‑opening exception conditions: the garage opening clear height and the ESS mounting height both matter for the exception in § R330.8.1. Missing one condition can make protection required.
- Placing wheel stops too close: wheel barriers must be located the specified distance from the ESS (e.g., ≥ 54 in for the concrete/polymer barrier) or they won’t provide the required protection. § R330.8.3 details this.
Worked example — two scenarios
Scenario A — no impact protection required
- One-car attached garage with a single 8 ft wide × 7 ft high overhead door (clear height = 7 ft / 2134 mm, which is ≤ 7 ft 6 in / 2286 mm). ESS is mounted on the back wall with the bottom of the unit at 42 in above the finished floor (≥ 36 in).
- Conclusion: Under § R330.8.1 the low‑opening exception applies, so vehicle impact protection is not required.
Scenario B — impact protection required
- Same garage but the door is replaced with an 8 ft wide × 8 ft high opening (clear height = 8 ft / 2438 mm, which is > 7 ft 6 in / 2286 mm). The ESS bottom is at 24 in above finished floor and sits within the normal driving path.
- Conclusion: Exception does not apply (opening > 7 ft 6 in and unit < 36 in above floor). Because the ESS is in the normal driving path, § R330.8.1 requires impact protection and § R330.8.3 dictates acceptable bollard or wheel barrier construction (for example, three embedded bollards spaced no more than 5 ft apart, each 48 in long Schedule 80 pipe with 36 in exposed). file
Related provisions
- § R330.4 — Locations where ESS are permitted (attached/detached garages, outdoors, utility closets); relates to where R330.8 may apply.
- § R330.5 — Maximum aggregate and location-specific ESS energy ratings (affects whether CRC or CFC installation rules apply).
- § R330.6 — Electrical installation (California Electrical Code) requirements for ESS.
- § R330.7 — Fire detection (smoke/heat alarms) for ESS locations in dwellings and garages.
- § R330.8.2 — Other locations subject to vehicle impact that must follow § R330.8.3.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 1207.11.7.1 High relevance — show source text
1207.11.7.1 Garages. Where an ESS is installed in the normal driving path of vehicle travel within a garage, impact protection complying with Section 1207.11.3 shall be provided. The normal driving path is a space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall to a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor. The width of the normal driving path shall be equal to the width of the garage door opening. Impact protection shall also be provided for an ESS installed at either of the following locations (see Figure 1207.11.7.1):
- On the interior face of the back wall and located within 36 inches (914 mm) to the left or to the right of the normal driving path.
- On the interior face of a side wall and located within 24 inches (610 mm) of the back wall and 36 inches (914 mm) of the normal driving path.
Exception: Where the clear height of the vehicle garage opening is 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) or less, ESS installed not less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the finished floor are not subject to vehicle impact protection requirements.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-25
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ENERGY SYSTEMS
FIGURE 1207.11.7.1—ESS VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
12-26 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ENERGY SYSTEMS
1207.11.7.2 Other locations subject to vehicle impact. Where an ESS is installed in a location other than as defined in Section 1207.11.7.1 and is subject to vehicle damage, impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 1207.11.7.3.
1207.11.7.3 Impact protection options. Where ESS is required to be protected from impact in accordance with Section 1207.11.7.1 or 1207.11.7.2, such protection shall comply with one of the following:
- Bollards constructed in accordance with one of the following: 1.1. Minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) in length by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe embedded in a concrete pier not less than 12 inches (304 mm) deep and 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter, with at least 36 inches (914 mm) of pipe exposed, filled with concrete and spaced at a maximum interval of 5 feet (1524 mm). Each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from an ESS. 1.2. Minimum 36 inches (914 mm) in height by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe fully welded to a minimum 8 inches (203 mm) by ¼-inch (6.4 mm) thick steel plate and bolted to a concrete floor by means of four ½-inch (13 mm) concrete anchors with 3-inch (76 mm) minimum embedment. Spacing shall be not greater than 60 inches (1524 mm), and each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS.
CRC § 8.1 High relevance — show source text
R330.7 Fire detection. Rooms and areas within dwelling units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R310. A heat detector, listed and interconnected to the smoke alarms, shall be installed in locations within dwelling units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
[SFM] ESS installed in Group R-3 and townhomes shall comply with the following: 1. Rooms and areas within dwellings units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R314. 2. A listed heat alarm interconnected to the smoke alarms shall be installed in locations within dwelling units, sleeping units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
R330.8 Protection from impact. ESS installed in a location subject to vehicle damage in accordance with Section R330.8.1 or R330.8.2 shall be provided with impact protection in accordance with Section R328.8.3.
R330.8.1 Garages. Where an ESS is installed in the normal driving path of vehicle travel within a garage, impact protection complying with Section R330.8.3 shall be provided. The normal driving path is a space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall to a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor. The width of the normal driving path shall be equal to the width of the garage door opening. Impact protection shall also be provided for an ESS installed at either of the following locations (see Figure R330.8.1):
- On the interior face of the back wall and located within 36 inches (914 mm) to the left or to the right of the normal driving path.
- On the interior face of a side wall and located within 24 inches (610 mm) from the back wall and 36 inches (914 mm) of the normal driving path.
Exception: Where the clear height of the vehicle garage opening is 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) or less, ESS installed not less than 36 inches (914 mm) above finished floor are not subject to vehicle impact protection requirements.
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 3-77
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
BUILDING PLANNING
FIGURE R330.8.1—ESS VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R330.8.2 Other locations subject to vehicle impact. Where an ESS is installed in a location other than as defined in Section R330.8.1 and is subject to vehicle damage, impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section R330.8.3.
R330.8.3 Impact protection options. ESS protection shall comply with one of the following:
- Bollards constructed in accordance with one of the following: 1.1. Minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) in length by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe embedded in a concrete pier not less than 12 inches (305 mm) deep and 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter, with not less than 36 inches (914 mm) of pipe exposed, filled with concrete and spaced at a maximum interval of 5 feet (1524 mm).
CRC § 1207.1.5. High relevance — show source text
Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:_
1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a noncombustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.|12-24 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ENERGY SYSTEMS
1207.11.5 Electrical installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741 or provided as part of the UL 9540 listing. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
1207.11.6 Fire detection. ESS installed in Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies shall comply with the following:
- Rooms and areas within dwelling units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
- A listed heat alarm shall be installed in locations where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
1207.11.7 Protection from impact. ESS installed in a location subject to vehicle damage in accordance with Section 1207.11.7.1 or 1207.11.7.2 shall be provided with impact protection in accordance with Section 1207.11.7.3.
1207.11.7.1 Garages. Where an ESS is installed in the normal driving path of vehicle travel within a garage, impact protection complying with Section 1207.11.3 shall be provided. The normal driving path is a space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall to a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor. The width of the normal driving path shall be equal to the width of the garage door opening. Impact protection shall also be provided for an ESS installed at either of the following locations (see Figure 1207.11.7.1):
- On the interior face of the back wall and located within 36 inches (914 mm) to the left or to the right of the normal driving path.
- On the interior face of a side wall and located within 24 inches (610 mm) of the back wall and 36 inches (914 mm) of the normal driving path.
Exception: Where the clear height of the vehicle garage opening is 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) or less, ESS installed not less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the finished floor are not subject to vehicle impact protection requirements.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-25
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ENERGY SYSTEMS
FIGURE 1207.11.7.1—ESS VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
12-26 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ENERGY SYSTEMS
CRC § 3.6 High relevance — show source text
DC wiring shall be installed in_ metallic conduit or raceways when located within enclosed spaces in a building. Conduit shall run along the bottom of load bearing members.
SECTION R330—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
R330.1 General. Energy storage systems (ESS) shall comply with the provisions of this section.
Exceptions:
- ESS listed and labeled for use in habitable spaces, in accordance with UL 9540 and where installed in accordance with the listing, the manufacturer’s instructions and the California Electrical Code.
- ESS less than 1 kWh (3.6 megajoules).
R330.2 Equipment listings. Energy storage systems (ESS) shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 9540.
Exception: Where approved, repurposed unlisted battery systems from electric vehicles are allowed to be installed outdoors or in detached sheds located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from exterior walls, property lines and public ways.
R330.3 Installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing.
R330.3.1 Spacing. Individual units shall be separated from each other by not less than 3 feet (914 mm) except where other separation distances are specified by the ESS listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R330.4 Locations. ESS shall be installed only in the following locations:
Detached garages and detached accessory structures.
Attached garages separated from the dwelling unit living space in accordance with Section R302.6.
Outdoors or on the exterior side of exterior walls located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors and windows directly entering the dwelling unit, except where smaller separation distances are permitted by the UL 9540 listing and manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Enclosed utility closets, basements, storage or utility spaces within dwelling units with finished or noncombustible walls and ceilings. Walls and ceilings of unfinished wood-framed construction shall be provided with not less than [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum wallboard. Openings into the dwelling shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1 [3] / 8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 1 [3] / 8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, or doors with a 20-minute fire protection rating. Doors shall be self-latching and equipped with a self-closing or an automatic-closing device. Penetrations through the required gypsum wallboard into the dwelling shall be protected as required by Section R302.11, Item 4.
� ESS shall not be installed in sleeping rooms, or closets or spaces opening directly into sleeping rooms.
3-76 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
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BUILDING PLANNING
R330.5 Energy ratings. Individual ESS units shall have a maximum rating of 20 kWh. The ratings of the ESS in each location shall not exceed the ratings in Table R330.5. The total aggregate ratings of ESS on the property shall not exceed 600 kWh.
ESS installations exceeding the permitted individual or aggregate ratings shall be installed in accordance with Section 1207 of the California Fire Code.
|TABLE R330.
CRC § 3-77 High relevance — show source text
- On the interior face of a side wall and located within 24 inches (610 mm) from the back wall and 36 inches (914 mm) of the normal driving path.
Exception: Where the clear height of the vehicle garage opening is 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm) or less, ESS installed not less than 36 inches (914 mm) above finished floor are not subject to vehicle impact protection requirements.
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 3-77
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
BUILDING PLANNING
FIGURE R330.8.1—ESS VEHICLE IMPACT PROTECTION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R330.8.2 Other locations subject to vehicle impact. Where an ESS is installed in a location other than as defined in Section R330.8.1 and is subject to vehicle damage, impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section R330.8.3.
R330.8.3 Impact protection options. ESS protection shall comply with one of the following:
- Bollards constructed in accordance with one of the following: 1.1. Minimum 48 inches (1219 mm) in length by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe embedded in a concrete pier not less than 12 inches (305 mm) deep and 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter, with not less than 36 inches (914 mm) of pipe exposed, filled with concrete and spaced at a maximum interval of 5 feet (1524 mm). Each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from an ESS. 1.2. Minimum 36 inches (914 mm) in height by 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter Schedule 80 steel pipe fully welded to a steel plate not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in length by [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness and bolted to a concrete floor by means of 4 [1] / 2 -inch (114 mm) concrete anchors imbedded not less than 3 inches (76 mm). Spacing shall be not greater than 60 inches (1524 mm), and each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS.
1.3. Premanufactured steel pipe bollards filled with concrete and anchored in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions, with spacing not greater than 60 inches (1524 mm). Each bollard shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the ESS. 2. Wheel barriers constructed in accordance with one of the following: 2.1. Concrete or polymer 4 inches (102 mm) in height by 5 inches (127 mm) in width by 70 inches (1778 mm) in length, anchored to the concrete floor not less than every 36 inches (914 mm) and located not less than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the ESS. Concrete anchors not less than 3 [1] / 2 inches (89 mm) in diameter with 3-inch
3-78 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
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BUILDING PLANNING
(76 mm) embedment per barrier shall be used. Spacing between barriers shall be not greater than 36 inches (914 mm).
CRC § 1207.1.5 High relevance — show source text
A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS._
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a non-combustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a non-combustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a non-combustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5 of the California Fire Code.|R330.6 Electrical installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741 or provided as part of the UL 9540 listing. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.
R330.7 Fire detection. Rooms and areas within dwelling units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R310. A heat detector, listed and interconnected to the smoke alarms, shall be installed in locations within dwelling units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
[SFM] ESS installed in Group R-3 and townhomes shall comply with the following: 1. Rooms and areas within dwellings units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section R314. 2. A listed heat alarm interconnected to the smoke alarms shall be installed in locations within dwelling units, sleeping units and attached garages where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
R330.8 Protection from impact. ESS installed in a location subject to vehicle damage in accordance with Section R330.8.1 or R330.8.2 shall be provided with impact protection in accordance with Section R328.8.3.
R330.8.1 Garages. Where an ESS is installed in the normal driving path of vehicle travel within a garage, impact protection complying with Section R330.8.3 shall be provided. The normal driving path is a space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall to a height of 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor.
CRC § 8.1 High relevance — show source text
R329.8 Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R301.
R329.8.1 Fire separation distances. Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems shall be subject to the fire separation distance requirements determined by the enforcing agency.
R329.8.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground mounted photovoltaic arrays shall comply with this section and the Cali- fornia Electrical Code. Setback requirements shall not apply to ground-mounted, free-standing photovoltaic arrays. A clear, brush- free area of 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be required for ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays.
R329.8.3 Locations of DC conductors. Conduit, wiring systems and raceways for photovoltaic circuits shall be located as close as possible to the ridge or hip or valley and from the hip or valley as directly as possible to an outside wall to reduce trip hazards and maximize ventilation opportunities. Conduit runs between sub arrays and to DC combiner boxes shall be installed in a manner that minimizes the total amount of conduit on the roof by taking the shortest path from the array to the DC combiner box. The DC combiner boxes shall be located such that conduit runs are minimized in the pathways between arrays. DC wiring shall be installed in metallic conduit or raceways when located within enclosed spaces in a building. Conduit shall run along the bottom of load bearing members.
SECTION R330—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
R330.1 General. Energy storage systems (ESS) shall comply with the provisions of this section.
Exceptions:
- ESS listed and labeled for use in habitable spaces, in accordance with UL 9540 and where installed in accordance with the listing, the manufacturer’s instructions and the California Electrical Code.
- ESS less than 1 kWh (3.6 megajoules).
R330.2 Equipment listings. Energy storage systems (ESS) shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 9540.
Exception: Where approved, repurposed unlisted battery systems from electric vehicles are allowed to be installed outdoors or in detached sheds located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from exterior walls, property lines and public ways.
R330.3 Installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing.
R330.3.1 Spacing. Individual units shall be separated from each other by not less than 3 feet (914 mm) except where other separation distances are specified by the ESS listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R330.4 Locations. ESS shall be installed only in the following locations:
- Detached garages and detached accessory structures.
- Attached garages separated from the dwelling unit living space in accordance with Section R302.6.
- Outdoors or on the exterior side of exterior walls located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors and windows directly entering the dwelling unit, except where smaller separation distances are permitted by the UL 9540 listing and manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CRC § 25.4 High relevance — show source text
minimum in-rack sprinklers**|Sprinklers at the ceiling with or
without minimum in-rack sprinklers|In-rack sprinklers
at every tier| |RACK
CONFIGURATION|FLUE DESIGN|FLUE DESIGN|Storage
height ≤ 25 feet|Storage
height > 25 feet|Any height| |Single-row rack|Transverse
flue space|Sizeb|3 inches|3 inches|Not required| |Single-row rack|Transverse
flue space|Vertically aligned|Not required|Yes|Not required| |Single-row rack|Longitudinal flue space|Longitudinal flue space|Not required|Not required|Not required| |Double-row rack
(Option 1)|Transverse
flue space|Sizeb|6 inchesa|3 inches|Not required| |Double-row rack
(Option 1)|Transverse
flue space|Vertically aligned|Not required|Yes|Not required| |Double-row rack
(Option 1)|Longitudinal flue space|Longitudinal flue space|Not required|6 inches|Not required| |Double-row rack
(Option 2)|Transverse
flue space|Sizeb|3 inches|6 inches|Not required| |Double-row rack
(Option 2)|Transverse
flue space|Vertically aligned|Not required|Yes|Not required| |Double-row rack
(Option 2)|Longitudinal flue space|Longitudinal flue space|6 inches|Not required|Not required| |Multiple-row rack|Transverse
flue space|Sizeb|6 inches|6 inches|Not required| |Multiple-row rack|Transverse
flue space|Vertically aligned|Not required|Yes|Not required| |Multiple-row rack|Longitudinal flue space|Longitudinal flue space|Not required|Not required|Not required| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided not less than every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.
b.CRC § 304.8 High relevance — show source text
a_| |In detached garages and detached accessory structures|200|| |In detached garages and detached accessory structures|600|Detached garage or detached accessory structure is
a minimum 10 feet away from property lines and
dwellings.| |Outdoors on the ground|200|ESS is a minimum 3 feet away from property lines
and dwellings.| |Outdoors on the ground|600|ESS is a minimum 10 feet away from property lines
and dwellings.| |For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm
a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a noncombustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm
a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a noncombustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm
a. Noncombustible wall surface shall extend in accordance with all the following:
1. A minimum of 5 feet horizontally from the edge of the ESS.
2. A minimum of 1 foot vertically below the bottom edge of the ESS.
3. A minimum of 8 feet vertically above the ESS, or to a noncombustible eave, whichever is less.
The code official is authorized to approve reductions of installation requirements based on large-scale fire testing complying with Section 1207.1.5.|12-24 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ENERGY SYSTEMS
1207.11.5 Electrical installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741 or provided as part of the UL 9540 listing. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction. (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.)
1207.11.6 Fire detection. ESS installed in Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies shall comply with the following:
- Rooms and areas within dwelling units, sleeping units, basements and attached garages in which ESS are installed shall be protected by smoke alarms in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
- A listed heat alarm shall be installed in locations where smoke alarms cannot be installed based on their listing.
CRC § 10-8 Medium relevance — show source text
000|10-8|12-6|9-8|10-0|9-0|8-2|7-7|6-4|6-2| |24|2-#4
1-#6|60,000|12-11|15-2|11-9|12-2|11-0|9-11|9-3|7-8|7-6| |24|2-#5|40,000|15-2|17-9|13-9|14-3|12-10|11-7|10-10|9-0|8-9| |24|2-#5|60,000|18-4|21-6|16-7|17-3|15-6|14-0|13-1|10-4|10-0| |24|2-#6|40,000|18-0|21-1|16-4|16-11|14-10|12-9|11-8|9-2|8-11| |24|2-#6|60,000|21-7|25-4|19-2|20-4|17-2|14-9|13-4|10-4|10-0| |24|Center distance_A_k, l|Center distance_A_k, l|4-6|6-2|3-8|4-0|3-3|2-8|2-3|1-7|1-6| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. See Table R608.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R608.8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or1/2 inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth,D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire length of the
lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth,D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall be not less than the least
amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at not more than_d_/2.
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.05.California Residential Code Medium relevance — show source text
e**|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e|MAXIMUM CANTILEVER SPAN
(uplift force at backspan support in lb)d, e| |MEMBER & SPACING|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**|** Ground snow load**| |MEMBER & SPACING|≤ 20 psf|≤ 20 psf|≤ 20 psf|30 psf|30 psf|30 psf|** 50 psf**|** 50 psf**|** 50 psf**|70 psf|70 psf|70 psf| |MEMBER & SPACING|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**|** Roof width**| |MEMBER & SPACING|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft|24 ft|32 ft|40 ft| |2 × 8 @ 12″|20″
(177)|15″
(227)|—|18″
(209)|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |2 × 10 @ 16″|29″
(228)|21″
(297)|16″
(364)|26″
(271)|18″
(354)|—|20″
(375)|—|—|—|—|—| |2 × 10 @ 12″|36″
(166)|26″
(219)|20″
(270)|34″
(198)|22″
(263)|16″
(324)|26″
(277)|—|—|19″
(356)|—|—| |2 × 12 @CRC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
@48|4@48| |140|119|110|8|4@43|4@34|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |140|119|110|9|4@34|4@34|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |140|119|110|10|4@34|4@31|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |150|127|117|8|4@37|4@34|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |150|127|117|9|4@34|4@33|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |150|127|117|10|4@31|4@27|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |160|136|125|8|4@34|4@34|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |160|136|125|9|4@34|4@29|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |160|136|125|10|4@27|4@24|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48|4@48| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 1.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an effective wind area of
10 square feet, topographic factor,Kzt, equal to 1.0, and Risk Category II.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R608.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the unsupported height of the wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table as indicated by shaded cells, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000
psi is permitted.
g. Other than for No.
Frequently asked questions
When exactly is an ESS considered to be in the "normal driving path"?
The normal driving path is the space between the garage vehicle opening and the interior face of the back wall up to 48 in (1219 mm) above the finished floor, and its width equals the garage door opening width. If the ESS is inside that footprint, it is in the normal driving path. § R330.8.1.
If my ESS is mounted on a side wall 30 inches from the back wall, do I need protection?
Yes — a side wall ESS located within 24 in (610 mm) of the back wall and within 36 in (914 mm) of the normal driving path requires impact protection. Check both distances per § R330.8.1.
Can I install a lower-cost short bollard instead of the code bollard?
No — bollards must meet the sizes, embedment/anchorage and spacing requirements in § R330.8.3 (for example a 48 in Schedule 80 pipe embedment option or the 36 in surface‑mounted option). Premanufactured bollards are allowed only if installed per manufacturer instructions and the spacing/clearances in § R330.8.3.
My garage door is 7 ft 6 in tall. If I mount the ESS at 40 in height, do I still need protection?
No — if the garage opening clear height is ≤ 7 ft 6 in (2286 mm) and the ESS is installed not less than 36 in (914 mm) above the finished floor, the impact-protection requirement does not apply (see § R330.8.1).
Can I use an engineered barrier instead of bollards or wheel stops?
Yes — § R330.8.3 (3) allows an approved engineered method provided it is designed to resist the specified impact performance (for example the code calls out resistance to 2,000 lb/ft² at 24 in above grade). Confirm design and approval with your authority having jurisdiction.
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