CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Driveway design limits and off‑road pumper access
For homeowners: the CWUIC requires your driveway to allow fire trucks to get to, pass, turn and operate safely — provide a 10‑ft lane with 14 ft horizontal and 13'‑6" vertical clearance, meet load and grade limits, add turnouts or a turnaround if the drive is long, and remember a pumper access driveway used for drafting must be ≤150 ft; post a permanent, visible address at the driveway.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code requires that driveways provide safe, unobstructed vehicle access for emergency wildfire equipment by meeting minimum lane widths, clearances, surface strength, grade limits and on‑driveway turnouts/turnarounds. Specific driveway dimensions and turnout/turnaround spacing are found in the access provisions (e.g., § 403.1.2, § 403.1.6–.7) and pumper access point rules appear in the water/draft‑site provisions (§ 404.3.2). The code also requires permanently posted, visible addresses for buildings at driveways per § 403.2.5.
The most important rule: design driveways so a fire apparatus can reach, turn, and operate safely — meet the lane, clearance, weight, grade and turnout/turnaround limits in the CWUIC and provide visible addresses for responders.
Requirements in detail
Notes on sources and scope
- The CWUIC material available in the project files contains the detailed access and water/draft‑site rules referenced below (see cited sections). The explicit standalone text labeled § 403.2 (Driveways) was not present in the retrieved file preview; driveway requirements are expressed in the Section 403 / Title 14 excerpts and related CCR tables reproduced in the CWUIC compilation (see citations). Where the CWUIC points to Title 14 CCR provisions (e.g., 1273.xx), I cite the CWUIC section numbers that reproduce those requirements.
Key dimensional and design thresholds (decision table)
| Decision / feature | Required value (CWUIC) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum driveway traffic lane width | One (1) 10‑foot traffic lane | § 403.1.2 |
| Minimum unobstructed horizontal clearance at driveway | 14 feet | § 403.1.2 |
| Minimum unobstructed vertical clearance | 13 ft 6 in (13'‑6") | § 403.1.2 |
| Surface/structural support (roads) | Fire apparatus: 75,000 lb design; road/driveway structures: 40,000 lb | § 1273.02 (reproduced in CWUIC) |
| Maximum grade without LRJ approval | 16%; up to 20% with local approval/mitigation | § 403.1.4 / § 1273.03 |
| Minimum turnout size | 12 ft wide × 30 ft long, with 25‑ft taper each end | § 403.1.7 / § 1273.06 |
| Turnout placement for driveways | Driveways >150 ft and <800 ft: turnout near midpoint; >800 ft: turnouts ≤400 ft apart | § 403.1.6(c) / § 1273.05(c) |
| Turnaround for long driveways | Driveways >300 ft require turnaround within 50 ft of the building; dead‑end roads require a terminus turnaround | § 403.1.6(d) / § 1273.05(d–e) |
| Off‑road pumper access (draft/pumper point) | Pumper access point may be an approved driveway not longer than 150 ft (or adjacent approved access area) | § 404.3.2 |
| Address posting at driveway | Permanent, plainly legible address visible from the road; special rules where private road access prevents direct view | § 403.2.5 |
Notes on interpretation:
- When the CWUIC reproduces Title 14 CCR provisions it treats those provisions as the operative driveway/access requirements for WUI areas — the CWUIC text and the CCR excerpts in the CWUIC document are the source for the dimensions above.
Where turnouts / turnarounds come in
- Turnouts: required on driveways >150 ft (midpoint) and on longer drives per spacing rules; each turnout must be 12' × 30' minimum with 25' tapers. These are intended to allow two vehicles to pass and to let fire apparatus wait or pass without blocking the main lane. § 403.1.7 / § 1273.06.
- Turnarounds: required for longer drives (>300 ft) and all dead‑end roads; minimum turning radii dimensions and hammer‑head/T options are specified in § 403.1.6 / § 1273.05.
Pumper / draft‑site access (off‑road pumper)
- A pumper access point for natural water drafting or drafting sites must be either an emergency vehicle access area beside a conforming access road or an approved driveway not longer than 150 feet. The pumper must not be required to obstruct a road or driveway to use the access point. See § 404.3.2.
Structural support, signage and bridges
- Surfaces intended for fire apparatus must be designed for loads: roadways for 75,000 lb apparatus; bridges and roadway structures must support 40,000 lb at a minimum and must be signed for posted limits where required. See § 1273.02 and § 1273.10 / § 403.1.8.
Exceptions & special cases
- Local‑jurisdiction approval — grades above 16% (up to 20%) and one‑lane/one‑way road approvals require local authority approval and mitigation to achieve the same practical effect for firefighter access and civilian egress (§ 403.1.4).
- One‑way roads — may be allowed with different lane width rules (single 12‑ft lane) but have strict length and connectivity limits and require turnouts at midpoints (§ 403.1.2(b)).
- Bridges / elevated surfaces — a one‑lane bridge may be allowed only with unobstructed visibility and turnouts at both ends; load postings and structural design per AASHTO apply (§ 403.1.8 / § 1273.07).
- Pumper access for water drafting — the 150‑ft driveway limit for a pumper access point is a maximum for an approved driveway used as a pumper access point; if a drafting site is farther away, an adjacent approved emergency vehicle access area is required (§ 404.3.2).
If a specific local ordinance adopts refinements or stricter standards, the local adoption controls. The CWUIC indicates the Local Jurisdiction may set additional requirements or approve exceptions with findings that the same practical effect is achieved.
Common mistakes
- Relying on a driveway narrower than 10 ft or with less than 14 ft horizontal clearance — this blocks safe passage and is nonconforming. § 403.1.2.
- Forgetting vertical clearance (vehicles and apparatus need 13'‑6") — overhead obstructions like tree limbs, cables, or eaves must be cleared. § 403.1.2.
- Treating a long driveway as usable pumper drafting access when it exceeds 150 ft — a pumper access driveway must be ≤ 150 ft to qualify as the pumper access point. § 404.3.2.
- Omitting required turnouts or providing undersized turnouts — minimum 12' × 30' with specified taper is required where turnouts are called for. § 403.1.7.
- Not posting/providing visible address signs at driveway starts or where addresses are not visible from the public way — see § 403.2.5.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: Single‑family residence on a 3‑acre parcel reached by a private driveway 420 feet long; driveway profile is mostly level, but a short section reaches 18% grade; driveway is 10 ft single lane with 14 ft horizontal clearance and 13'‑6" vertical clearance throughout.
Apply the rules:
- Lane & clearances: single 10‑ft lane, 14 ft horizontal clearance and 13'‑6" vertical clearance — meets § 403.1.2.
- Grades: the driveway has an 18% portion — this exceeds the standard 16% limit. To be compliant, obtain local jurisdiction approval (allowed up to 20% with mitigation / documentation to provide the same practical effect), per § 403.1.4 / § 1273.03.
- Turnouts/turnaround: at 420 ft total length (greater than 150 ft but less than 800 ft) provide a turnout near the midpoint (≈210 ft) per § 403.1.6(c). Because the driveway exceeds 300 ft, a turnaround must be provided within 50 ft of the building per § 403.1.6(d). Turnout and turnaround must meet minimum sizes (turnout 12' × 30', 25 ft tapers; turnaround radius per figures) — see § 403.1.7 and § 403.1.6.
- Off‑road pumper access: if you want the driveway to serve as a pumper access point for a draft site, it cannot be longer than 150 ft — at 420 ft this driveway cannot serve as the approved pumper access driveway under § 404.3.2; instead provide an adjacent approved emergency vehicle access area or locate the pumper access point beside a conforming access road.
- Addressing: post a permanent, legible address visible from the road or, if not visible from the public way, provide an unobstructed sign so the address is visible from the public way, per § 403.2.5.
Summary of required actions for this scenario:
- Add midpoint turnout (12'×30' with tapers). § 403.1.7 / § 403.1.6(c).
- Provide turnaround within 50 ft of structure. § 403.1.6(d).
- Seek local jurisdiction approval and mitigations for the 18% grade segment. § 403.1.4.
- Do not rely on this driveway as a pumper access point (over 150 ft); plan alternate pumper access per § 404.3.2.
Common plan‑check / permitting tips
- Provide engineering specifications that demonstrate load‑bearing capacity when requested by the local jurisdiction (CWUIC requires supporting engineering when project proponent is asked). § 1273.02 / § 403.1.3.
- Include driveway plans showing dimensions, turnouts/turnarounds, grades, vertical clearance, and address sign location to avoid multiple review cycles. § 403.1.2, § 403.1.6, § 403.2.5.
Related provisions (CWUIC sections)
- § 403.1.2 — Driveway and road widths and clearances (minimum lane widths, vertical clearance).
- § 403.1.4 — Grade limits (16% standard; up to 20% with approval).
- § 403.1.6 / § 1273.05 — Turnarounds (requirements, radii, hammerhead/T).
- § 403.1.7 / § 1273.06 — Turnouts (size and taper).
- § 403.1.8 / § 1273.07 — Bridges and driveway structures (load posting, AASHTO design).
- § 403.2.5 — Address installation, location and visibility (permanent, legible, visible).
- § 404.3.2 — Pumper access points (approved driveway not longer than 150 ft or adjacent access area).
- § 1273.02 — Surface and load support for roads and driveways (75,000 lb / 40,000 lb).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CWUIC § 1274.04 High relevance — show source text
or otherwise posted to provide for unobstructed visibility from that_ intersection.
(f) In all cases, the address shall be posted at the beginning of construction and shall be maintained thereafter.
[CCR, Title 14 §1274.04]
SECTION 404—WATER SUPPLY
404.1 General. An approved water source shall have an adequate water supply for the use of the fire protection service to protect buildings and structures from exterior fire sources or to suppress structure fires within the wildland-urban interface area of the jurisdiction in accordance with this section.
404.2 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for structural fire protection and wildland fire exposure shall be provided to the premises on which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code.
404.3 Draft sites. Approved draft sites shall be provided at natural water sources intended for use as fire protection for compliance with this code. The design, construction, location, access and access maintenance of draft sites shall be approved by the code official.
404.3.1 Access. The draft site shall have emergency vehicle access from an access road in accordance with Section 403.
404.3.2 Pumper access points. The pumper access point shall be either an emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road or an approved driveway not longer than 150 feet (45 720 mm). Pumper access points and access driveways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with all codes and ordinances enforced by this jurisdiction. Pumper access points shall not require the pumper apparatus to obstruct a road or driveway.
404.4 Hydrants. Hydrants shall be designed and constructed in accordance with nationally recognized standards. The location and access shall be approved by the code official. The number and spacing of fire hydrants shall be in accordance with Appendix C or CC of the California Fire Code, as applicable.
404.5 Adequate water supply. Fire-flow requirements shall be determined in accordance with Appendix B or BB of the California Fire Code, as applicable.
404.6 Reserved.
404.7 Obstructions. Access to water sources required by this code shall be unobstructed at all times. The fire department shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access to water source equipment, fire protection equipment or hydrants.
404.8 Identification. Water sources, draft sites, hydrants and fire protection equipment and hydrants shall be clearly identified in a manner approved by the code official to identify location and to prevent obstruction by parking and other obstructions. Each fire hydrant and access to a water supply shall be identified in accordance with one of the following: 1. Where located along a driveway, a reflectorized blue marker with a minimum dimension of 3 inches (73 mm) shall be located on the driveway address sign and mounted on a fire-retardant post. 2. Where located along an access road: 2.2. A reflectorized blue marker with a minimum dimension of 3 inches (73 mm) shall be mounted on a fire-retardant post. The signpost shall be within 3 feet (914 mm) of said fire hydrant with the sign not less than 3 feet (914 mm) nor greater than 5 feet (1524 mm) above ground, in a horizontal position and visible from the driveway. _2.3.
CWUIC § 1274.02 High relevance — show source text
[CCR, Title 14 §1274.02]
403.2.4 Addresses for Buildings. (a) All Buildings shall be issued an address by the Local Jurisdiction which conforms to that jurisdiction's overall address system. Utility and miscellaneous Group U Buildings are not required to have a separate address; however, each Residential Unit within a Building shall be separately identified. (b) The size of letters, numbers and symbols for addresses shall conform to the standards in the California Fire Code, California Code of Regulations Title 24, Part 9. (c) Addresses for residential Buildings shall be reflectorized.
[CCR, Title 14 §1274.03]
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403.2.5 Address installation, location and visibility. (a) All buildings shall have a permanently posted address which shall be plainly legible and visible from the Road fronting the property. (b) Where access is by means of a private Road and the address identification cannot be viewed from the public way, an unob- structed sign or other means shall be used so that the address is visible from the public way. (c) Address signs along one-way Roads shall be visible from both directions. (d) Where multiple addresses are required at a single driveway, they shall be mounted on a single sign or post. (e) Where a Road provides access solely to a single commercial or industrial business, the address sign shall be placed at the near- est Road intersection providing access to that site, or otherwise posted to provide for unobstructed visibility from that intersection.
(f) In all cases, the address shall be posted at the beginning of construction and shall be maintained thereafter.
[CCR, Title 14 §1274.04]
SECTION 404—WATER SUPPLY
404.1 General. An approved water source shall have an adequate water supply for the use of the fire protection service to protect buildings and structures from exterior fire sources or to suppress structure fires within the wildland-urban interface area of the jurisdiction in accordance with this section.
404.2 Required water supply. An approved water supply capable of supplying the required fire flow for structural fire protection and wildland fire exposure shall be provided to the premises on which facilities, buildings or portions of buildings are hereafter constructed or moved into or within the jurisdiction in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code.
404.3 Draft sites. Approved draft sites shall be provided at natural water sources intended for use as fire protection for compliance with this code. The design, construction, location, access and access maintenance of draft sites shall be approved by the code official.
404.3.1 Access. The draft site shall have emergency vehicle access from an access road in accordance with Section 403.
404.3.2 Pumper access points. The pumper access point shall be either an emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road or an approved driveway not longer than 150 feet (45 720 mm). Pumper access points and access driveways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with all codes and ordinances enforced by this jurisdiction. Pumper access points shall not require the pumper apparatus to obstruct a road or driveway.
CWUIC § 1273.02 High relevance — show source text
(a) Roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000 pounds and provide an aggregate base. (b) Road and driveway structures shall be designed and maintained to support at least 40,000 pounds. (c) Project proponent shall provide engineering specifications to support design, if requested by the local jurisdiction.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.02]
403.1.4 Grades.
(a) At no point shall the grade for all roads and driveways exceed 16 percent. (b) The grade may exceed 16 percent, not to exceed 20 percent, with approval from the local jurisdiction and with mitigations to provide for same practical effect.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.03]
403.1.5 Radius.
(a) No road or road structure shall have a minimum horizontal inside radius of curvature of fifty (50) feet. An additional surface width of four (4) feet shall be added to curves of 50–100 feet radius; two (2) feet to those from 100–200 feet. (b) The length of vertical curves in roadways, exclusive of gutters, ditches and drainage structures designed to hold or divert water, shall be not less than one hundred (100) feet.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.04]
403.1.6 Turnarounds.
(a) Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads. (b) The minimum turning radius for a turnaround shall be forty (40) feet, not including parking, in accordance with the figures in 14 CCR §§ 1273.05(e) and 1273.05(f). If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided not more than 400 feet apart. (d) A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within fifty (50) feet of the building. (e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are zoned five (5) acres or larger, turn- arounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals. (f) Figure A. Turnarounds on roads with two ten-foot traffic lanes. (g) Figure B. Turnarounds on driveways with one ten-foot traffic lane.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.05]
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FIGURE A—TURNAROUND WITH TWO 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANES
FIGURE B—TURNAROUND WITH ONE 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANE
403.1.7 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five-foot taper on each end. [CCR, Title 14 §1273.06]
CWUIC § 1273.05 High relevance — show source text
If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in_ length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided not more than 400 feet apart. (d) A turnaround shall be provided on driveways over 300 feet in length and shall be within fifty (50) feet of the building. (e) Each dead-end road shall have a turnaround constructed at its terminus. Where parcels are zoned five (5) acres or larger, turn- arounds shall be provided at a maximum of 1,320-foot intervals. (f) Figure A. Turnarounds on roads with two ten-foot traffic lanes. (g) Figure B. Turnarounds on driveways with one ten-foot traffic lane.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.05]
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FIGURE A—TURNAROUND WITH TWO 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANES
FIGURE B—TURNAROUND WITH ONE 10-FOOT TRAFFIC LANE
403.1.7 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five-foot taper on each end. [CCR, Title 14 §1273.06]
403.1.8 Road and Driveway Structures. (a) Appropriate signing, including but not limited to weight or vertical clearance limitations, one-way road or single traffic lane conditions, shall reflect the capability of each bridge. (b) Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a Fire Apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials Standard Specifications for High- way Bridges, 17 [th] Edition, published 2002 (known as AASHTO HB-17), hereby incorporated by reference. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when required by the local authority having jurisdiction. (c) Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are not designed for such use, barriers or signs, or both, as approved by the local authority having jurisdiction, shall be installed and maintained.
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(d) A bridge with only one traffic lane may be authorized by the Local Jurisdiction; however, it shall provide for unobstructed visi- bility from one end to the other and turnouts at both ends.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.07]
403.1.9 Dead-end Roads.
CWUIC § 1-2 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECT 1-2 Administration and Definitions 3-4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designation and Requirements 5 Building Construction Regulations 6 Fire Protection Requirements 7 Referenced Standards Appendices A-I Adoptable and Informational Appendices Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
Chapter 3 Wildland-Urban Interface Areas.
Chapter 3 provides for the fundamental aspect of applying the code—the legal declaration and establishment of wildland-urban interface areas within the adopting jurisdiction, mapping of the area, periodic review and updates.
Chapter 4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Requirements.
The requirements of Chapter 4 apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:
Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.
Key boxes to provide ready access to properties secured by gated roadways or other impediments to rapid fire service access.
Fire protection water supplies, including adequate water sources, pumper apparatus drafting sites, fire hydrant systems and system reliability.
Fire department access to equipment such as fire suppression equipment and fire hydrants.
Chapter 5 Special Building Construction Regulations.
The regulations in Chapter 5 establish minimum standards for the location, design and construction of buildings and structures based on construction within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Area.
The construction provisions of Chapter 5 are intended to supplement the requirements of the California Building Code and Califor- nia Residential Code and address mitigation of the unique hazards posed to buildings by wildfire and to reduce the hazards of building fires spreading to wildland fuels. This is accomplished by requiring ignition-resistant construction materials.
Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements.
Chapter 6 contains additional requirements for development and construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and areas designated by the State Fire Marshal as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). While many of these provisions are found in Title 14 and Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, they are replicated here for the code user. The local jurisdiction has the authority to apply the same regulations to LRA when the regulations are adopted by local ordinance.
The requirements in this chapter reference the process for adoption of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA; criteria for evaluating existing subdivisions that are at significant fire risk and are without an adequate secondary egress; and criteria for fire safety provisions required in the Safety Element of a city or county General Plan.
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CWUIC § 1273.02 Medium relevance — show source text
Vertical clearances shall conform to the requirements in California Vehicle Code section 35250._ (b) All One-way Roads shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one twelve (12) foot traffic lane, not including Shoulders. The Local Jurisdiction may approve One-way Roads. (1) All one-way roads shall, at both ends, connect to a road with two traffic lanes providing for travel in different directions, and shall provide access to an area currently zoned for no more than ten (10) Residential Units. (2) In no case shall a One-way Road exceed 2,640 feet in length. A turnout shall be placed and constructed at approximately the midpoint of each One-way Road. (c) All driveways shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one (1) ten (10) foot traffic lane, fourteen (14) feet unobstructed horizontal clearance, and unobstructed vertical clearance of thirteen feet, six inches (13′ 6″).
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.
1273.02 Road surfaces.
(a) Roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000 pounds and provide an aggregate base. (b) Road and driveway structures shall be designed and maintained to support at least 40,000 pounds. (c) Project proponent shall provide engineering specifications to support design, if requested by the local jurisdiction.
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.
1273.03 Grades.
(a) At no point shall the grade for all roads and driveways exceed 16 percent. (b) The grade may exceed 16%, not to exceed 20%, with approval from the local jurisdiction and with mitigations to provide for same practical effect.
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.
1273.04 Radius.
(a) No road or road structure shall have a horizontal inside radius of curvature of less than fifty (50) feet. An additional surface width of four (4) feet shall be added to curves of 50-100 feet radius; two (2) feet to those from 100-200 feet. (b) The length of vertical curves in roadways, exclusive of gutters, ditches, and drainage structures designed to hold or divert water, shall be not less than one hundred (100) feet.
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.
1273.05 Turnarounds.
(a) Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads. (b) The minimum turning radius for a turnaround shall be forty (40) feet, not including parking, in accordance with the figures in 14 CCR §§ 1273.05(e) and 1273.05(f). If a hammerhead/T is used instead, the top of the “T” shall be a minimum of sixty (60) feet in length. (c) Driveways exceeding 150 feet in length, but less than 800 feet in length, shall provide a turnout near the midpoint of the drive- way. Where the driveway exceeds 800 feet, turnouts shall be provided no more than 400 feet apart.
CWUIC § 402.3 Medium relevance — show source text
402.3 Existing conditions. Existing buildings shall be provided with address markers in accordance with Sections 403.2.4 and 403.2.5 . Existing roads and fire protection equipment shall be provided with markings in accordance with Sections 403.4 and 404.8, respectively.
SECTION 403—ACCESS
USER NOTE: The standards in Section 403 applicable to roads shall not apply to roads used solely for agriculture; mining; or the management of timberland or harvesting of forest products. [CCR, Title 14 §1270.03(d)]
403.1 General. Roads and driveways, whether public or private, unless exempted under 14 CCR § 1270.03(d), shall provide for safe access for emergency wildfire equipment and civilian evacuation concurrently, and shall provide unobstructed traffic circulation during a wildfire emergency consistent 403.1.1 to 403.1.9. [CCR, Title 14 §1273.00]
403.1.1 Section 403 definitions. When used in Section 403, the term listed below shall be defined as follows:
DEFENSIBLE SPACE. The area within the perimeter of a parcel, development, neighborhood or community where basic wildland fire protection practices and measures are implemented to defend against encroaching wildfire or to escape structure fires. The perimeter as used in this regulation [CCR Title 14] is the area encompassing the parcel or parcels proposed for construction and/or development, excluding the physical structure itself. The area is characterized by the establishment and maintenance of emer- gency vehicle access, emergency water reserves, road names and identification, and fuel modification measures. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(f)]
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403.1.2 Width.
(a) All Roads shall be constructed to provide a minimum of two ten-foot traffic lanes, not including shoulder and striping. These traffic lanes shall provide for two-way traffic flow to support emergency vehicle and civilian egress, unless other standards are provided in this article or additional requirements are mandated by local jurisdictions or local subdivision requirements. Verti- cal clearances shall conform to the requirements in California Vehicle Code Section 35250. (b) All one-way roads shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one twelve-foot traffic lane, not including Shoulders. The Local Jurisdiction may approve One-way Roads. (1) All one-way roads shall, at both ends, connect to a road with two traffic lanes providing for travel in different directions, and shall provide access to an area currently zoned for not more than ten (10) Residential Units. (2) In no case shall a One-way Road exceed 2,640 feet in length. A turnout shall be placed and constructed at approximately the midpoint of each One-way Road. (c) All Driveways shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one (1) ten-foot traffic lane, fourteen (14) feet unobstructed hori- zontal clearance, and unobstructed vertical clearance of thirteen feet, six inches (13' 6”).
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.01]
403.1.3 Road surfaces.
CWUIC § 0.120 Medium relevance — show source text
fastener**
horizontal spacing| |CLADDING FASTENER
THROUGH FOAM
SHEATHING INTO:|CLADDING FASTENER
TYPE AND MINIMUM SIZEc|CLADDING FASTENER
VERTICAL SPACING
(INCHES)|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:| |CLADDING FASTENER
THROUGH FOAM
SHEATHING INTO:|CLADDING FASTENER
TYPE AND MINIMUM SIZEc|CLADDING FASTENER
VERTICAL SPACING
(INCHES)|**3 **
psf|11
psf|18
psf|25
psf|**3 **
psf|11
psf|18
psf|25
psf| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.120" diameter nail|6|3.00|1.70|0.90|0.55|3.00|1.05|0.50|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.120" diameter nail|8|3.00|1.20|0.60|DR|3.00|0.70|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.120" diameter nail|12|3.00|0.70|DR|DR|2.15|DR|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|6|4.00|2.15|1.20|0.75|4.00|1.35|0.70|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|8|4.00|1.55|0.80|DR|4.00|0.90|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|12|4.00|0.90|DR|DR|2.70|0.50|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|6|4.00|3.55|2.05|1.40|4.00|2.25|1.25|0.80| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|8|4.00|2.55|1.45|0.95|4.00|1.60|0.85|0.50| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|12|4.00|1.60|0.85|0.50|4.00|0.95|DR|DR| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.CWUIC § 1270.08 Medium relevance — show source text
The_ Local Jurisdiction may establish or utilize an appeal process consistent with existing local building or planning department appeal processes. (d) Before the Local Jurisdiction makes a determination on an appeal, the inspector shall be consulted and shall provide to that Local Jurisdiction documentation outlining the effects of the requested Exception on Wildfire protection. (e) If an appeal is granted, the Local Jurisdiction shall make findings that the decision meets the intent of providing Defensible Space consistent with these regulations. Such findings shall include a statement of reasons for the decision. A written copy of these findings shall be provided to the CAL FIRE Unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in that Local Jurisdiction.
1270.08 Distance measurements. All specified or referenced distances are measured along the ground, unless otherwise stated.
Article 2 Ingress and Egress.
1273.00 Intent. Roads, and driveways, whether public or private, unless exempted under 14 CCR § 1270.03(d), shall provide for safe access for emergency wildfire equipment and civilian evacuation concurrently, and shall provide unobstructed traffic circulation during a wildfire emergency consistent with 14 CCR §§ 1273.00 through 1273.09.
1273.01 Width.
(a) All roads shall be constructed to provide a minimum of two ten (10) foot traffic lanes, not including shoulder and striping. These traffic lanes shall provide for two-way traffic flow to support emergency vehicle and civilian egress, unless other stan- dards are provided in this article or additional requirements are mandated by Local Jurisdictions or local subdivision requirements. Vertical clearances shall conform to the requirements in California Vehicle Code section 35250. (b) All One-way Roads shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one twelve (12) foot traffic lane, not including Shoulders. The Local Jurisdiction may approve One-way Roads. (1) All one-way roads shall, at both ends, connect to a road with two traffic lanes providing for travel in different directions, and shall provide access to an area currently zoned for no more than ten (10) Residential Units. (2) In no case shall a One-way Road exceed 2,640 feet in length. A turnout shall be placed and constructed at approximately the midpoint of each One-way Road. (c) All driveways shall be constructed to provide a minimum of one (1) ten (10) foot traffic lane, fourteen (14) feet unobstructed horizontal clearance, and unobstructed vertical clearance of thirteen feet, six inches (13′ 6″).
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.
1273.02 Road surfaces.
(a) Roads shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed load of fire apparatus weighing at least 75,000 pounds and provide an aggregate base. (b) Road and driveway structures shall be designed and maintained to support at least 40,000 pounds. (c) Project proponent shall provide engineering specifications to support design, if requested by the local jurisdiction.
Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.
1273.03 Grades.
CWUIC § 4-1 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 4-1
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4-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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4 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 4 provides requirements that apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:
Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.
Key boxes to provide ready access to properties secured by gated roadways or other impediments to rapid fire service access.
Fire protection water supplies, including adequate water sources, pumper apparatus drafting sites, fire hydrant systems and system reliability.
Fire department access to equipment such as fire suppression equipment and fire hydrants.
SECTION 401—GENERAL
401.1 Scope. Wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with emergency vehicle access and water supply in accordance with this chapter.
401.2 Objective. The objective of this chapter is to establish the minimum requirements for emergency vehicle access and water supply for buildings and structures located in the wildland-urban interface areas.
401.3 General safety precautions. General safety precautions shall be in accordance with this chapter. See also Appendix A.
SECTION 402—APPLICABILITY
402.1 Subdivisions. Subdivisions shall comply with Sections 402.1.1 and 402.1.2.
402.1.1 Access. New subdivisions, as determined by this jurisdiction, shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with the California Fire Code; the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 2; and access requirements in accordance with Section 403.
402.1.2 Water supply. New subdivisions as determined by this jurisdiction shall be provided with water supply in accordance with Section 507 of the California Fire Code; California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 4; and Section 404.
402.1.2.1 Parcel map approval. Water supply requirements shall apply in the tentative and parcel map process when new parcels are approved by the local jurisdiction.
402.2 Individual structures. Individual structures shall comply with Sections 402.2.1 and 402.2.2.
402.2.1 Access. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with fire apparatus access in accordance with the California Fire Code; the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Subsection 1273; and Section 403 .
402.2.2 Water supply. Individual structures hereafter constructed or relocated into or within wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with a conforming water supply in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, Article 4; California Fire Code Section 507; and Section 404.
CWUIC § 403.2 Medium relevance — show source text
APPENDIX I-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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Access Applicability 402 Driveways 403.2 Fire apparatus access roads 403.3 Grade 403.7
Individual structures 402.2 Marking of roads 402.3, 403.4 Restricted 403.1
Subdivisions 402.1 Accessory Buildings and Miscellaneous Structures
Defined 202
Detached 504.11 Exempt from permit 105.3 Additions or Alterations 101.5
Address Markers 402.3 Agriculture 202 Alternative Materials or Methods 104.2.2
Appeals 112 Appendices 101.2.1 Applicable Building 202 Applicability 102 Approved 202 Approved Agency 104.2.2.6.1, 202 Authority of Code Official 104
Building 202 Building Official 202
Certificate of Completion 111 Certificate of occupancy 111.2 Revocation 111.4
Temporary occupancy 111.3
Code Official 202 Code Official, Authority 104 Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework Appendix C Compliance Alternatives 105 Construction Documents 106
Amended 106.10
Examination of 106.9 Information on plans and specifications 106.2 Phased 106.12
Previous approval 106.11 Retention of 106.8 Site plan 106.3 Vegetation management plans 106.4 Control of Storage Appendix A, A105 Critical Fire Weather 202
Dead-end Road 202 Defensible Space 403, 601.3 Vegetation Plan 603 Definitions 202 Designation of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.1
Director 202 Driveway 202 Dumping Appendix A, A106 Dwelling 202
Exterior Covering 202
INDEX
Fees 109 Findings of Fact Appendix E Fire Chief 202 Fire Danger Rating System Appendix D Fire Flow Calculation Area Application 404.5 Defined 202 Fire Hazard Severity Zones 1.1.2, 202, 302.1, 302.2, Appendix D, Appendix H Fire Protection Plans 602
Fire Weather 202
Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction 501.3 Fire-Resistive Vegetation Appendix F Fire-Retardant-Treated Lumber or
Wood 503.2, 504.5, 504.7, 504.11 Flame Spread Index 202 Flashing 504.2.1, 504.5.1 Fuel Break 202, 609 Fuel Models Appendix D Fuel Modification 202
Fuel Modification Distance 603.2
Fuel Mosaic 202 Fuel-Loading 202
General Requirements Appendix A Green Belt 202
Greenways 202
CWUIC § 1.859 Medium relevance — show source text
78|–|1.859|0.463| |35.31|–|2.247|0.559| |38.84|–|2.667|0.663| |42.37|–|3.121|0.775| |45.90|–|3.607|0.895| |49.43|–|4.125|1.022| |52.97|–|–|1.157| |56.50|–|–|1.299| |60.03|–|–|1.449| |63.56|–|–|1.607| |67.09|–|–|1.772| |70.62|–|–|1.944| |81.21|–|–|2.503| |91.81|–|–|3.127| |102.40|–|–|3.813|
For SI units: 1 standard cubic foot per minute = 28.32 SLPM, 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa
Notes: 1 Based on pressure of 14.7 psig (101 kPa) at 68°F (20°C). 2 Based on pressure of 55 psig (379 kPa) at 68°F (20 °C).
2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 291
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICAL VACUUM SYSTEMS
TABLE 1323.1.4(5) PRESSURE LOSS FOR VACUUM (continued)
FLOW
RATE
(SCFM)1VACUUM LOSS (inch of mercury)
PER 100 FEET FOR COPPER TUBE2Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 FLOW
RATE
(SCFM)13⁄4 INCH
TUBE1 INCH
TUBE11⁄4 INCH
TUBE11⁄2 INCH
TUBE2 INCH
TUBE49.43 – – – 3.645 0.956 52.97 – – – 4.122 1.081 56.50 – – – 4.626 1.212 63.56 – – – – 1.495 70.62 – – – – 1.803 77.68 – – – – 2.138 84.74 – – – – 2.497 91.81 – – – – 2.882 98.87 – – – – 3.291 105.93 – – – – 3.724 112.99 – – – – 4.181 CWUIC § 403.1.8 High relevance — show source text
403.1.8 Road and Driveway Structures. (a) Appropriate signing, including but not limited to weight or vertical clearance limitations, one-way road or single traffic lane conditions, shall reflect the capability of each bridge. (b) Where a bridge or an elevated surface is part of a Fire Apparatus access road, the bridge shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials Standard Specifications for High- way Bridges, 17 [th] Edition, published 2002 (known as AASHTO HB-17), hereby incorporated by reference. Bridges and elevated surfaces shall be designed for a live load sufficient to carry the imposed loads of fire apparatus. Vehicle load limits shall be posted at both entrances to bridges when required by the local authority having jurisdiction. (c) Where elevated surfaces designed for emergency vehicle use are adjacent to surfaces which are not designed for such use, barriers or signs, or both, as approved by the local authority having jurisdiction, shall be installed and maintained.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 4-5
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WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS
(d) A bridge with only one traffic lane may be authorized by the Local Jurisdiction; however, it shall provide for unobstructed visi- bility from one end to the other and turnouts at both ends.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.07]
403.1.9 Dead-end Roads.
(a) The maximum length of a Dead-end Road, including all Dead-end Roads accessed from that Dead-end Road, shall not exceed the following cumulative lengths, regardless of the number of parcels served:
Parcels zoned for less than one acre – 800 feet (262 m)
Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet (433 m)
Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet (866 m)
Parcels zoned for 20 acres or larger – 5,280 feet (1732 m) All lengths shall be measured from the edge of the road surface at the intersection that begins the road to the end of the road surface at its farthest point. Where a Dead-end Road crosses areas of differing zoned parcel sizes requiring different length limits, the shortest allowable length shall apply. (b) See Section 403.1.5 for Dead-end Road turnaround requirements.
[CCR, Title 14 §1273.08]
403.1.10 Gate entrances.
(a) Gate entrances shall be at least two (2) feet wider than the width of the traffic lane(s) serving that gate and a minimum width of fourteen (14) feet unobstructed horizontal clearance and unobstructed vertical clearance of thirteen feet, six inches (13' 6”). (b) All gates providing access from a road to a driveway shall be located at least thirty (30) feet from the roadway and shall open to allow a vehicle to stop without obstructing traffic on that Road. (c) Where a one-way road with a single traffic lane provides access to a gated entrance, a forty-foot turning radius shall be used. (d) Security gates shall not be installed without approval. Where security gates are installed, they shall have an approved means _of emergency operation. Approval shall be by the local authority having jurisdiction.
CWUIC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Division 1.5
Section|Title 19,
Division 1
Section|Gov Code
Section|PRC
Section|HSC
Section| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |Section|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title|Title| |Chapter 4|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements|Wildland-urban interface area requirements| |403.2.5|Address installation,
location, and visibility|Y||||1274.04(a)
1274.04(b)
1274.04(c)
1274.04(d)
1274.04(e)
1274.04(f)||||| |404|Water supply|Y||||1275.02||||| |404.1|General|Y|||507|1275.02(b)||||| |404.2|Required water supply|Y||||1275.02(c)||||| |404.3|Draft sites|Y||||||||| |404.3.1|Access|Y|||507.5.4|||||| |404.3.2|Pumper access points|Y|404.3.2|||||||| |404.4|Hydrants|Y|||507.5|||||| |404.5|Adequate water
supply|Y|||507.3|1275.02(b)||||| |404.6|Reserved|N||||||||| |404.7|Obstructions|Y|||507.5.4|||||| |404.8|Identification|Y||||1275.04(a)||||| |404.9|Testing and
maintenance|Y|||507.5.2|||||| |404.10|Reliability|Y|||507.5.2|||||| |404.10.1|Objective|Y|404.10.1|||||||| |404.10.2|Clearance of fuel|Y|||4907.1|||||| |404.10.3|Standby power|Y|||507.5.2|||||| |Chapter 5|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations|Special building construction regulations| |501|General|Y||701A||||||| |501.1|Scope|Y||701A.3||||||| |501.2|Objective|Y||701A.2||||||| |501.3|Fire-resistance-rated
construction|Y||703.2.1.5||||||| |501.4|Noncombustibility
tests|Y||703.3||||||| |501.4.1|Noncombustible
materials|Y||703.3.CWUIC § 503.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text
(11)Table E 503.7.1(11), “Commercial Refrigerators, Commercial Freezers, Freezers, and Refrigeration—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(12)Table E 503.7.1(12), “Vapor-Compression-Based Indoor Pool Dehumidifiers—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(13) Table E 503.7.1(13), “Electrically Operated DX-DOAS Units, Single-Package and Remote Condenser, without Energy Recovery—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(14)Table E 503.7.1(14), “Electrically Operated DX-DOAS Units, Single-Package and Remote Condenser, with Energy Recovery—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(15)Table E 503.7.1(15), “Electrically Operated WaterSource Heat Pumps—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(16)Table E 503.7.1(16), “Heat Pump and Heat Recovery Chiller Packages—Minimum Efficiency Requirement”
(17)Table E 503.7.1(17), “Ceiling-Mounted Computer-Room Air Conditioners—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(18)Table E 503.7.1(18), “Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Display Door Efficiency Requirements”
(19)Table E 503.7.1(19), “Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Nondisplay Door Efficiency Requirements” (20)Table E 503.7.1(20), “Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Refrigeration System Efficiency Requirements”
[ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.1] E 503.4.1 Water-Cooled Centrifugal Chilling Packages. Equipment not designed for operation in accordance with AHRI 550/590 test conditions of
44.00°F (6.67°C) leaving and 54.00°F (12.22°C) entering chilled-fluid temperatures, and with 85.00°F (29.44°C) entering and 94.30°F (34.61°C) leaving condenser-fluid temperatures, shall have maximum full-load kW/ton ( FL ) and part-load rating requirements adjusted in accordance with Equation E 503.4.1(1) through Equation E 503.4.1(3):
FLadj = FL / Kadj [Equation E 503.4.1(1)] PLVadj = IPLV.IP / Kadj [Equation E 503.4.1(2)] Kadj = A x B [Equation E 503.4.1(3)]
Where:
FL = full-load kW/ton value from Table E
503.7.1(3) FLadj = maximum full-load kW/ton rating, adjusted for nonstandard conditions
IPLV.IP = IPLV.IP value from Table E 503.7.1(3) PLVadj = maximum NPLV rating, adjusted for nonstandard conditions
A = 0.00000014592 x (LIFT ) [4] - 0.0000346496 x ( LIFT ) [3] + 0.00314196 x ( LIFT ) [2] 0.147199 x ( LIFT ) + 3.93073
B = 0.0015 x LvgEvap + 0.934
LIFT = LvgCond - LvgEvap
LvgCond = Full-load condenser leaving fluid temperature (°F)
CWUIC § 402.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Title 19, Division 1]|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |402|||†||||||||||||||||||||| |402.1.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |402.1.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |402.1.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |402.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |402.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |402.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.6_Reserved_|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.7|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |404.8|||X|||||||||||||||||||||- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 4-1
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4-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
4 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 4 provides requirements that apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:
Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.
Key boxes to provide ready access to properties secured by gated roadways or other impediments to rapid fire service access.
Fire protection water supplies, including adequate water sources, pumper apparatus drafting sites, fire hydrant systems and system reliability.
Fire department access to equipment such as fire suppression equipment and fire hydrants.
SECTION 401—GENERAL
401.1 Scope. Wildland-urban interface areas shall be provided with emergency vehicle access and water supply in accordance with this chapter.
401.2 Objective. The objective of this chapter is to establish the minimum requirements for emergency vehicle access and water supply for buildings and structures located in the wildland-urban interface areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can my driveway double as the pumper access point if it’s 120 feet long?
Yes — a driveway used as a pumper access point may be an approved driveway not longer than 150 ft per § 404.3.2. Ensure the driveway meets the other access and structural rules (lane width, clearances, surface support) before designating it as the pumper access point.
What if my driveway has a short steep section at 18% grade?
Grades over 16% up to 20% may be allowed only with local jurisdiction approval and mitigation showing the same practical effect for firefighter access and evacuation; you must apply for approval and provide supporting documentation/specs. § 403.1.4.
How big does a turnout need to be and where do I place it?
Minimum turnout size is 12 ft wide × 30 ft long with a 25‑ft taper on each end. For driveways >150 ft and <800 ft place a turnout near the midpoint; for longer drives follow the spacing rules in § 403.1.6–.7.
Do I need to post an address at the driveway?
Yes — a permanent, plainly legible address visible from the road is required; if the address cannot be seen from the public way, you must provide an unobstructed sign or equivalent so responders can locate the building. § 403.2.5.
My property has a natural water source — how close must the pumper be to draft water?
If using a driveway as the pumper access point, the driveway used for pumper access may not exceed 150 ft. Otherwise, provide an emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road to serve as the pumper access point. § 404.3.2.
More in California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
- Administration and Definitions
- Board of Appeals, Administration & Enforcement (permits, code official duties, appeals process)
- Wildland‑Urban Interface Area Designation & Mapping
- Fire Service Access & Water Supply (fire apparatus roads, driveways, hydrants, draft sites, standby power)
- Wildland‑Urban Interface Area Requirements (access, water, premises identification, key boxes)
- Referenced Standards & Test Methods
- Special Building Construction Regulations (ignition‑resistant construction, roof/vent/assembly requirements)
- Appendices and Model Ordinances (vegetation plans, severity‑zone adoption, home‑hardening guidance)
- Fire Protection Requirements (fire protection plans, systems, safety element provisions)
- Referenced California Documents & Matrix (CCR/Title 14 & 19 cross‑references, statutory references)
- Vegetation Management & Defensible Space (vegetation plans, maintenance, fire‑smart characteristics)
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