CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

Testing, maintenance, obstructions and keeping water sources accessible

Q: What counts as an “obstruction” under § 404.7?

Any physical condition that would deter or hinder the fire department from gaining immediate access to a water source or hydrant — for example parked vehicles, stored materials, locked gates without authorized access, or heavy vegetation; the code requires unobstructed access at all times ( § 404.7 ) .

Q: How often do I have to test a hydrant or draft site?

§ 404.9 requires periodic tests as required by the code official but does not prescribe a statewide interval; you must obtain the required frequency and test procedures from your local code official or referenced standards ( § 404.9 ) .

Q: If a hydrant is damaged, how quickly must it be repaired?

The code mandates that equipment “shall be maintained in an operative condition” and “shall be repaired or replaced where defective” — the code does not list a strict repair timeline, so coordinate with the code official and local fire department for enforcement expectations and immediate safety measures ( § 404.9 ) .

Q: Are marker size and mounting height required?

Yes. The code requires a reflectorized blue marker minimum 3 inches (73 mm) ; where posted along an access road the signpost must be within 3 ft (914 mm) of the hydrant and mounted between 3 ft and 5 ft (914–1524 mm) above ground, per § 404.8 .

Q: Does property ownership change my obligations?

No. If a water source or hydrant is required by this code and located within the wildland‑urban interface area, the access and maintenance obligations in § 404.7 and § 404.9 apply regardless of ownership; enforcement is by the code official and local fire authority .

Keep hydrants, draft sites and all fire protection water equipment clear of obstructions, clearly marked, and maintained in working order; the code requires periodic tests and repairs as determined by the local code official (see **§ 404.7** and **§ 404.9**) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code requires that access to all water sources, draft sites, hydrants and other fire protection equipment be kept unobstructed at all times (§ 404.7) and that those same water sources, draft sites, hydrants and equipment be subject to periodic tests and be maintained in an operative condition; defective equipment must be repaired or replaced and servicing must follow approved standards (§ 404.9) . The code delegates test frequency and specific maintenance actions to the code official (i.e., the local enforcing authority) rather than prescribing fixed intervals in the text of § 404.9 .

The single most important rule: keep the fire department’s access to water sources and hydrants clear and functional at all times so they can be used immediately in an emergency. § 404.7

Requirements in detail

What must remain unobstructed

The code requires unobstructed access to: water sources, draft sites, hydrants, and fire protection equipment so the fire department “shall not be deterred or hindered from gaining immediate access” (§ 404.7) .
Unobstructed means no permanent or temporary barriers (vehicles, stored materials, locked gates without key‑box access, overgrown landscaping, etc.) that would delay or prevent immediate use.

Testing, maintenance and repairs

Water sources, draft sites, hydrants and other required fire protection equipment must be subject to periodic tests as required by the code official and must be maintained in an operative condition; defective items must be repaired or replaced (§ 404.9) .
Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing must follow approved standards (the code does not list a prescriptive standard in § 404.9; follow the local authority or referenced standards) (§ 404.9) .
The code leaves the exact test intervals and test methods to the code official; therefore maintainers must obtain the local jurisdiction’s schedule and any referenced standards from the authority having jurisdiction (§ 404.9) .

Marking, access design and related limits (decision‑relevant dimensions)

The code provides related dimensional and marking specifics elsewhere in Chapter 4 that affect accessibility and identification; these are frequently enforced alongside §§ 404.7 and 404.9.

Decision item	Required value / dimension	Why it matters	Code Reference
Hydrant / water‑supply marker size	Minimum 3 inches (73 mm) reflectorized blue marker	Ensures hydrant location is visible to responders	§ 404.8
Hydrant marker post distance from hydrant	Within 3 feet (914 mm)	Makes marker visible and correlated to hydrant location	§ 404.8
Hydrant marker mounting height	Not less than 3 ft (914 mm) nor greater than 5 ft (1524 mm) above ground	Keeps marker readable from vehicle approach	§ 404.8
Pumper access driveway maximum length	150 feet (45 720 mm) for an approved driveway pumper access point	Ensures pumpers can reach a draft site without obstructing roads	§ 404.3.2
Standby power duration for pumps dependent on electrical power	Not less than 2 hours (where required)	Prevents loss of water supply during power outages	§ 404.10.3

Note: §§ 404.8, 404.3.2 and 404.10.3 are related code text that the enforcing agency commonly applies together with §§ 404.7 and 404.9 to ensure usable, identified and reliable water sources .

Responsibilities and who decides what

The code official determines the periodic testing requirements (frequency, scope, acceptable testing standards) for water sources and equipment — § 404.9 places the testing obligation on the equipment but delegates specifics to the code official .
The fire department’s ability to gain immediate access is a performance requirement — local fire authorities enforce § 404.7 and may require physical changes (removal of obstructions, key boxes, signage) to comply .

Exceptions & special cases

The CWUIC text of § 404.9 does not set test intervals or methods; therefore jurisdictions may adopt or reference standards that define frequency and test procedures — contact your local code official for those specifics (§ 404.9) .
Standby power exceptions: § 404.10.3 contains exceptions (e.g., where primary power service is underground or where the facility serves no more than one single‑family dwelling, subject to code official approval) — these exceptions affect reliability but are enforced alongside maintenance and access rules .
Draft sites at natural water sources require approved design, construction and access; pumper access points cannot force pumpers to obstruct a road or driveway (see § 404.3 and § 404.3.2) .

If you need prescriptive testing intervals, sampling methods, or detailed pump/service checklists, those are not specified in §§ 404.7 or 404.9 themselves — the code defers to the code official and to approved standards for those details; contact your jurisdiction for the adopted testing matrix (§ 404.9) .

Common mistakes

Assuming a one‑size‑fits‑all test schedule: the code requires “periodic tests as required by the code official” — don’t invent intervals; verify with the local jurisdiction (§ 404.9) .
Blocking hydrants or draft‑site access with vehicles, trailers or stored materials — § 404.7 prohibits any obstruction that would deter or hinder immediate access .
Failing to maintain or promptly repair defective equipment — § 404.9 requires defective equipment be repaired or replaced; leaving hydrants inoperable violates the code and risks denial of service in an emergency .
Ignoring identification requirements (marker size/height/location) that help firefighters quickly locate water supplies — these are specified in § 404.8 and enforced together with § 404.7 .
Assuming private property status removes obligations — the code’s unobstructed access requirement applies to required water sources within the wildland‑urban interface regardless of ownership; local enforcement still applies under § 404.7 .

Worked example — pond draft site for a single rural property

Scenario: A homeowner has a natural pond intended as a draft site for local fire department use. The property sits at the end of a private driveway that measures 180 feet from the access road to the pond edge.

Check pumper access: the code requires an approved driveway pumper access point not longer than 150 feet (45 720 mm) or an emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road (§ 404.3.2) .
- Because the driveway is 180 ft, it exceeds the 150 ft maximum. The homeowner must either:
  - Provide an approved emergency vehicle access area alongside a conforming access road at the draft site, or
  - Reconfigure the driveway so the pumper access point is within 150 ft of the draft site (e.g., create a 30‑ft turnout/approach), per the approval of the code official (§ 404.3.2) .
Identification and obstructions:
- The pond/draft site and any hydrant/access must be marked with a reflectorized blue marker minimum 3 inches (73 mm) mounted on a fire‑retardant post and placed within 3 ft (914 mm) of the hydrant or access point at an elevation of 3–5 ft (914–1524 mm) so it’s visible from the driveway/road (§ 404.8) .
- The access path to the pond must be kept clear so the fire department is not deterred or hindered from immediate access (§ 404.7) .
Testing / maintenance:
- The homeowner should coordinate with the local code official/fire department to learn the periodic test schedule for draft sites and any required maintenance steps (the CWUIC requires periodic testing as determined by the code official but does not set the interval in § 404.9) and keep repair records if any equipment is installed (§ 404.9) .

Related provisions

§ 404.3 — Draft sites: design, construction and access approval (pumper access points and driveway length)
§ 404.3.2 — Pumper access point maximum 150 ft (45 720 mm) for an approved driveway pumper access point
§ 404.4 — Hydrants: design, construction and location to nationally recognized standards
§ 404.5 — Adequate water supply / fire‑flow requirements (references California Fire Code Appendices)
§ 404.8 — Identification: reflectorized markers, mounting height and location for hydrants and water access
§ 404.10 and § 404.10.3 — Reliability and standby power requirements (standby power not less than 2 hours, with limited exceptions)

If you want, I can:

Draft a short checklist you can print and use for an on‑site inspection (hydrant markers, clearance distances, obvious defects to look for).
Contact the local jurisdiction’s standard testing schedule or help prepare a record/log template to document periodic tests and maintenance that will satisfy the code official.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CWUIC § 404.5 High relevance — show source text
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. As specified in the State Fire Marshal’s Guidelines for Fire Hydrant Markings Along State Highways and Freeways, May 1988.

404.9 Testing and maintenance. Water sources, draft sites, hydrants and other fire protection equipment required by this code shall be subject to periodic tests as required by the code official. Such equipment installed under the provisions of this code shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be repaired or replaced where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing of such fire protection equipment and resources shall be in accordance with approved standards.

404.10 Reliability. Water supply reliability shall comply with Sections 404.10.1 through 404.10.3.

404.10.1 Objective. The objective of this section is to increase the reliability of water supplies by reducing the exposure of vegetative fuels to electrically powered systems.

404.10.2 Clearance of fuel. Defensible space shall be provided around water tank structures, water supply pumps and pump houses in accordance with Section 603.

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WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

404.10.3 Standby power. Standby power shall be provided to pumps, controllers and related electrical equipment so that stationary water supply facilities within the wildland-urban interface area that are dependent on electrical power can provide the required water supply. The standby power system shall be in accordance with Section 2702 of the California Building Code and Section 1203 of the California Fire Code . The standby power source shall be capable of providing power for not less than 2 hours.
CWUIC § 404.9 High relevance — show source text
May_ 1988.

404.9 Testing and maintenance. Water sources, draft sites, hydrants and other fire protection equipment required by this code shall be subject to periodic tests as required by the code official. Such equipment installed under the provisions of this code shall be maintained in an operative condition at all times and shall be repaired or replaced where defective. Additions, repairs, alterations and servicing of such fire protection equipment and resources shall be in accordance with approved standards.

404.10 Reliability. Water supply reliability shall comply with Sections 404.10.1 through 404.10.3.

404.10.1 Objective. The objective of this section is to increase the reliability of water supplies by reducing the exposure of vegetative fuels to electrically powered systems.

404.10.2 Clearance of fuel. Defensible space shall be provided around water tank structures, water supply pumps and pump houses in accordance with Section 603.

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WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

404.10.3 Standby power. Standby power shall be provided to pumps, controllers and related electrical equipment so that stationary water supply facilities within the wildland-urban interface area that are dependent on electrical power can provide the required water supply. The standby power system shall be in accordance with Section 2702 of the California Building Code and Section 1203 of the California Fire Code . The standby power source shall be capable of providing power for not less than 2 hours.

Exceptions:
1. Where approved by the code official, a standby power supply is not required where the primary power service to the stationary water supply facility is underground.
2. A standby power supply is not required where the stationary water supply facility serves not more than one singlefamily dwelling.
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CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 5 – SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS

(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
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 § 104.2 High relevance — show source text
K 104.2 Prohibited Discharges. Overflows, condensate, and bleed-off pipes from roof-mounted equipment and appliances shall not discharge onto roof surfaces that are intended to collect rainwater.

K 104.3 Minimum Water Quality. Upon initial system startup, the quality of the water for the intended application shall be verified at the point(s) of use as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction in accordance with Section K 104.3.1 and Section K 104.3.2. Water quality maintenance shall be in accordance with Section K 104.3.3.

K 104.3.1 Private Potable Water System. In the absence of water quality requirements determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the minimum water quality for a private potable water system at the point of use shall comply with Table K 104.3.1.

494 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

APPENDIX K

TABLE K 104.3.1

MINIMUM WATER QUALITY

Escherichia coli (fecal coliform) Non-detectable

Protozoan Cysts Non-detectable

Viruses Non-detectable

Turbidity <0.3 NTU

K 104.3.2 Public Use Occupancies. The minimum water quality for a potable water system for public use occupancies at the point of use and testing procedures shall comply with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Safe Drinking Water Act for a public water sys tem.

K 104.3.3 Maintenance. Normal system maintenance shall require system testing for Escherichia coli (fecal coliform) and turbidity every 3 months in accordance with Table K 104.3.3. Upon failure of the fecal coliform test, the system shall be re-commissioned involving cleaning, and retesting in accordance with Section K 104.3. Testing for viruses and cysts shall occur once after 3 months of initial operation and once every 12 months thereafter.

Exception: Upon failure of the virus or cyst test, the tests will be repeated every 3 months until the tests results are negative for two consecutive tests.

TABLE K 104.3.3

MINIMUM SYSTEM MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

Escherichia coli (fecal coliform) Non-detectable

Turbidity <0.3 NTU

K 104.4 Water Quality Devices and Equipment. Devices and equipment used to treat rainwater to maintain the minimum water quality requirements determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be listed or labeled (thirdparty certified) by a listing agency (accredited conformity assessment body) and approved for the intended application.

K 104.4.1 Filtration Devices. Potable water filters shall comply with NSF/ANSI 53 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CWUIC § 1.5 High 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 § 104.2.2.7 High relevance — show source text
Outbuilding 202

Peer Review 104.2.2.7, 202 Permits

Application 105.4 Approval 105.5 Expiration 105.8 Issuance 105.6 Preliminary inspection 105.4.1 Refusal to issue 105.6.1

Required 105.2 Retention 105.9

Revocation 105.10 Validity 105.7 Work exempt from permit 105.3 Placarding as Unsafe 109.3.5.3 Powers and Duties of the Code

Official 104.1

Practical Difficulties 104.2.3 Protection of Pumps and Water Storage Facilities Appendix A, A107

Rafter Tail 202 Referenced Standards 102.4, Chapter 7 Registered Design Professional 104.2.1.2, 104.2.2.6.2, 106.1, 202 Residential Unit 202 Retroactivity 101.4 Ridgelline 202 Road 202 Roof Covering 202 Roof Covering System 202 Roof Coverings, Replacement or Repair of 507

Roof Deck 202

Scope 101 Self-Defense Mechanism Appendix G Service Utilities 111

Slope 202 Spark Arrestors 605 Stop Work Order 113 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials 607 Strategic Ridgeline 202 Structure 202

Subdivision 202

Technical Assistance 104.2.1 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems 107 Tree Crown 202

Trees 603.4.2

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INDEX

Undeveloped Ridgeline 202 Unenclosed Accessory Structure 202

Vegetation Control Appendix A, A102 Vegetation management compliance 106.4 Vegetation Management Plan Appendix B Vents 504.10

Vertical Curve 202

Water Supply Adequate water supply 404.5 Applicability 402 Draft sites 404.3 Hydrants 404.4 Identification 404.8

Obstructions 404.7 Reliability 404.10 Required water supply 404.2 Subdivisions 402.1 Testing and maintenance 404.9 Water sources 404.2

Wildfire 202

Wildland 202

Wildland-Urban Interface Area 202

Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations 302 Declaration 302.1

Mapping 302.2 Review 302.3

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HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7

HISTORY:

Escherichia coli (fecal coliform)	Non-detectable
Protozoan Cysts	Non-detectable
Viruses	Non-detectable
Turbidity	<0.3 NTU

Escherichia coli (fecal coliform)	Non-detectable
Turbidity	<0.3 NTU

CWUIC § 3.2.2 High relevance — show source text

3.2.2|Minimum clearance
to be maintained|N|||||||4293
4296|| |A102.3.2.3|Electrical power line
emergencies|N||||||||| |A102.4|Correction of
condition|N||||||||| |A103|Access restrictions|N||||||||| |A103.1|Restricted entry to
public lands|N||||||||| |A103.2|Trespassing on
posted private
property|N||||||||| |A103.2.1|Signs|N||||||||| |A103.2.2|Trespassing|N||||||||| |A103.3|Use of fire roads and
defensible space|N||||||||| |A103.3.1|Obstructions|N||||||||| |A103.4|Use of motorcycles,
motor scooters, ultra-
light aircraft and
motor vehicles|N||||||||| |A103.5|Tampering with
locks, barricades,
signs and address
markers|N|||||||||

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

2025 CWUIC—continued	Col2	Adopted Yes/No	IWUIC Section	CBC Section	CFC Section	Title 14, 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
Appendix A	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements	General requirements
A103.5.1	Gates, doors, barriers and locks	N
A104	Ignition source control	N
A104.1	General	N
A104.2	Objective	N
A104.3	Clearance from igni- tion sources	N
A104.4	Smoking	N
A104.5	Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames	N
A104.6	Fireworks	N
A104.6.1	Authority to seize	N
A104.7	Outdoor fires	N
A104.7.1	General	N
A104.7.2	Permits	N
A104.7.3	Restrictions	N
A104.8	Incinerators, outdoor fireplaces, perma- nent barbecues and grills	N
A104.8.1	Maintenance	N
A104.

CWUIC § 603.4.2 High relevance — show source text
Trees 603.4.2

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INDEX

Undeveloped Ridgeline 202 Unenclosed Accessory Structure 202

Vegetation Control Appendix A, A102 Vegetation management compliance 106.4 Vegetation Management Plan Appendix B Vents 504.10

Vertical Curve 202

Water Supply Adequate water supply 404.5 Applicability 402 Draft sites 404.3 Hydrants 404.4 Identification 404.8

Obstructions 404.7 Reliability 404.10 Required water supply 404.2 Subdivisions 402.1 Testing and maintenance 404.9 Water sources 404.2

Wildfire 202

Wildland 202

Wildland-Urban Interface Area 202

Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations 302 Declaration 302.1

Mapping 302.2 Review 302.3

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HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7

HISTORY:
1. (SFM 08/24)—Adoption by reference of the 2024 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code with necessary amendments relocated from the California Building Code, California Residential Code and California Fire Code to become the 2025 Califor- nia Wildland-Urban Interface Code . Approved by the California Building Standards Commission on February 26, 2025, filed with Secretary of State on March 7, 2025, and effective on January 1, 2026.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE HIST-1

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HIST-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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CWUIC § 3-3 Medium relevance — show source text
301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

302 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations . . . . . .3-3

CHAPTER 4 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA

REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

402 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

403 Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3

404 Water Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7

CHAPTER 5 SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

REGULATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

502 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

503 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material. . . . . .5-3

504 Ignition-Resistant Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

505 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

506 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-9

507 Replacement or Repair of Roof Coverings. . . . . . . . .5-9

CHAPTER 6 FIRE PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS. . . . . . .6-3

601 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

602 Fire Protection Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

603 Vegetation Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

604 Maintenance of Defensible Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

CWUIC § 705.10 Medium relevance — show source text

Waste,
and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Sys-
tems for Above and Below Ground Use|Joints|705.10|

340 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

REFERENCED STANDARDS

TABLE 1701.1 (continued) REFERENCED STANDARDS

STANDARD NUMBER	STANDARD TITLE	APPLICATION	REFERENCED SECTION
ASTM C1540-2020	Standard Specification for Heavy-Duty Shielded Couplings Joining Hubless Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings	Joints	705.2.2
ASTM C1563-2008 (R2021)	Standard Test Method for Gaskets for Use in Connection with Hub and Spigot Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings for Sanitary Drain, Waste, Vent, and Storm Piping Applications	Joints	705.2.2
ASTM C1822-2021	Standard Specification for Insulating Covers on Accessible Lavatory Piping	Miscellaneous	403.3
ASTM D1253-2014	Standard Test Method for Residual Chlorine in Water	Miscellaneous	1506.10.6, 1603.4.1
ASTM D1785-2021a	Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120	Piping	Table 604.1, Table 701.2
ASTM D2235-2021	Standard Specification for Solvent Cement for Acrylonitrile- Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Plastic Pipe and Fittings	Joints	705.1.2
ASTM D2239-2021	Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (SIDR-PR) Based on Controlled Inside Diameter	Piping	Table 604.1
ASTM D2241-2020	Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure- Rated Pipe (SDR Series)	Piping	Table 604.1
ASTM D2464-2015	Standard Specification for Threaded Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80	Fittings	Table 604.1
ASTM D2466-2021	Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40	Fittings	Table 604.1
ASTM D2467-2020	Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80	Fittings	Table 604.1
ASTM D2513-2020	Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings	Piping	1208.5.4, 1208.5.6.2, 1208.5.10.2, 1210.1.7.1(1)
ASTM D2564-2020	Standard Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems	Joints	605.12.2, 705.6.

CWUIC § 18941.8. Medium relevance — show source text
Application— The construction, installation and alteration of graywater systems for indoor and outdoor uses in nonresidential occupancies.

Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.

Authority cited— Health & Safety Code Section 18941.8.

Reference— Health & Safety Code Section 18941.8.

1.2.2.1 Adopting agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to buildings identified in this section will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym BSC-CG .

1.2.3 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.

1.2.3.1 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of materials or assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research reports from approved sources.

1-6 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

ADMINISTRATION

1.2.3.2 Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, or evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate claims for alternative materials or methods, the building official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance to be made at no expense to the jurisdiction. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the building official shall approve the testing procedures. Tests shall be performed by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall be retained by the building official for the period required for retention of public records.

SECTION 1.3—BOARD OF STATE AND COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS

RESERVED

SECTION 1.4—DEPARTMENT OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS

RESERVED

SECTION 1.5—CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION

RESERVED

SECTION 1.6—DEPARTMENT OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE

RESERVED

SECTION 1.7—DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

RESERVED

SECTION 1.8—DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

1.8.1 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements necessary to protect the health, safety and general welfare of the occupants and the public by governing accessibility, erection, construction, reconstruction, enlargement, conversion, alteration, repair, moving, removal, demolition, occupancy, use, height, court, area, sanitation, ventilation, maintenance and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment.
CWUIC § 1204.8 Medium relevance — show source text
1204.8 Identification of Chemical Additives. In systems where chemical additives are used, documentation including the following information shall be readily accessible and maintained onsite:

(1) Concentrations

(2) Maintenance requirements

(3) Maintenance log

(4) Material Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

For SI units: 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW

1205.0 Installation, Testing, and Inspection.

1205.1 Operating Instructions. Operating and maintenance information shall be provided to the building owner. 1205.2 Pressure Testing. System piping and components shall be tested with a pressure of not less than one and one-half times the operating pressure but not less than 100 psi (689 kPa). Piping shall be tested with water or air except that plastic pipe

258 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

HYDRONICS

shall not be tested with air. Test pressures shall be held for a period of not less than 30 minutes with no perceptible drop in pressure. These tests shall be made in the presence of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

Exceptions: (1) For PEX, PP-R, PP-RCT, PEX-AL-PEX, PE-RT, and PEAL-PE piping systems, testing with air shall be permitted where authorized by the manufacturer’s instructions for the PEX, PP-R, PP-RCT, PEX-AL-PEX, PE-RT, and PE-ALPE pipe and fittings products, and air testing is not prohibited by applicable codes, laws, or regulations outside this code.

Note: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] PEX-AL-PEX is not adopted in the California Plumbing Code for use in potable water supply and distribution systems. (2) Copper tubing shall be tested at not less than 80 psi (552 kPa). 1205.3 Flushing. Heating and cooling sources, system piping and tubing shall be flushed after installation with water or a cleaning solution. Cleaning and flushing of the heating and cooling sources shall comply with the manufacturer’s instructions. The cleaning solution shall be compatible with all system components and shall be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

1206.0 Pressure and Safety Devices. 1206.1 General. Each closed hydronic system shall be protected against pressures exceeding design limitations with not less than one pressure relief valve. Each closed section of the system containing a heat source shall have a relief valve located so that the heat source is not capable of being isolated from a relief device. Pressure relief valves shall be installed in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

1206.2 Discharge Piping. The discharge piping serving a temperature relief valve, pressure relief valve, or combination of both shall have no valves, obstructions, or means of isolation and be provided with the following: (1) Not less than the size of the valve outlet and shall discharge full size to the flood level of the area receiving the discharge and pointing down. (2) Materials shall be rated at not less than the operating temperature of the system and approved for such use or shall comply with ASME A112.4.1.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as an “obstruction” under § 404.7?

Any physical condition that would deter or hinder the fire department from gaining immediate access to a water source or hydrant — for example parked vehicles, stored materials, locked gates without authorized access, or heavy vegetation; the code requires unobstructed access at all times (§ 404.7) .

How often do I have to test a hydrant or draft site?

§ 404.9 requires periodic tests as required by the code official but does not prescribe a statewide interval; you must obtain the required frequency and test procedures from your local code official or referenced standards (§ 404.9) .

If a hydrant is damaged, how quickly must it be repaired?

The code mandates that equipment “shall be maintained in an operative condition” and “shall be repaired or replaced where defective” — the code does not list a strict repair timeline, so coordinate with the code official and local fire department for enforcement expectations and immediate safety measures (§ 404.9) .

Are marker size and mounting height required?

Yes. The code requires a reflectorized blue marker minimum 3 inches (73 mm); where posted along an access road the signpost must be within 3 ft (914 mm) of the hydrant and mounted between 3 ft and 5 ft (914–1524 mm) above ground, per § 404.8 .

Does property ownership change my obligations?

No. If a water source or hydrant is required by this code and located within the wildland‑urban interface area, the access and maintenance obligations in § 404.7 and § 404.9 apply regardless of ownership; enforcement is by the code official and local fire authority .

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Hydrant design, location, thread sizes and identification requirements

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Water Supply, Hydrants & Testing

California Wildland-Urban Interface Code