CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

Limits on dead-end roads, required turnarounds and turnouts

Q: Do the dead-end limits apply per parcel or per road branch?

They apply to the cumulative length of the dead‑end road and all dead‑end roads accessed from it — not per parcel. Measure from the intersection edge to the farthest road surface. §403.1.9(a) .

Q: How big must a turnout be?

Minimum 12 feet wide by 30 feet long , with a 25‑foot taper on each end — see §403.1.7 .

Q: When is a turnaround required for a driveway?

A turnaround is required on driveways over 300 feet in length and must be within 50 feet of the building it serves. See the turnaround provision and its cross-references. §403.1.6(d) .

Q: If my dead-end passes through multiple zoning bands which length limit applies?

The shortest allowable length applies where a dead-end crosses areas of differing zoned parcel sizes. §403.1.9(a) .

Q: Can a one-way road be used to avoid turnouts or turnarounds?

One-way roads have their own limits (maximum 2,640 ft ) and still require a midpoint turnout; they are subject to local authorization and must connect to two‑lane roads at both ends. See §403.1.2(b) .

Homeowners and designers: the CWUIC caps dead-end branch length depending on parcel size (e.g., **1,320 ft** for 1–4.99‑acre parcels) and requires turnouts and turnarounds for safe emergency access — turnouts must be at least **12'×30'** with **25'** tapers, driveways over **300 ft** need a turnaround within **50 ft** of the home, and dead‑end roads must have a turnaround at the terminus; see **§403.1.9** and **§403.1.7** for the code language. file

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Dead-end roads may not exceed specified maximum cumulative lengths that depend on parcel zoning; these caps apply to the entire dead-end branch (cumulative) and are stated in §403.1.9.
Turnouts must meet minimum dimensions (width, length, taper) and are required on long driveways and one-way roads per §403.1.7.
Turnarounds are required for dead-end roads and for certain driveway lengths; the dead-end provision points to the turnaround requirements in the access requirements (see the cross‑references in §403.1.9(b) and the turnaround provision).

The single most important rule: keep dead-end roads short enough for safe emergency access — measure from the intersecting road edge to the farthest road surface and follow the parcel-size limits in §403.1.9.

Requirements in detail

Dead-end road length limits (decision rule)

All totals are 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 with different zoned parcel sizes, the shortest allowable length applies. See §403.1.9.

Parcel zoning / condition	Maximum cumulative dead-end length	Code Reference
Parcels zoned less than 1 acre	800 ft	§403.1.9
Parcels zoned 1.00 – 4.99 acres	1,320 ft	§403.1.9
Parcels zoned 5.00 – 19.99 acres	2,640 ft	§403.1.9
Parcels zoned 20 acres or larger	5,280 ft	§403.1.9

Notes:

The limits apply to the cumulative length of a dead-end road and all dead-end roads accessed from it (i.e., branches count toward the same cumulative total). §403.1.9(a).

Turnouts — where and how big

Minimum size: 12 ft wide × 30 ft long, with a minimum 25‑ft taper on each end. See §403.1.7.

Decision rules for when turnouts are required (driveways / one-way roads):

On a one-way road, a turnout shall be placed at approximately the midpoint; one-way roads have their own length limit and turnout requirement (see §403.1.2(b)).
Driveways: when a driveway exceeds 150 ft but is less than 800 ft, provide a turnout near the midpoint; when a driveway exceeds 800 ft, provide turnouts no more than 400 ft apart. (Driveway turnout rules are provided in the access/turnaround/turnout provisions; see the turnout/turnaround text cross-referenced in §403.1.6/§403.1.7 and the CCR cross-references). file

Situation	Turnout spacing/placement	Minimum dimensions	Code Reference
One-way road (midpoint turnout)	Midpoint turnout required	12' × 30' + 25' taper	§403.1.2(b) and §403.1.7 file
Driveway 150 ft – 799 ft	Turnout near midpoint	12' × 30' + 25' taper	§403.1.6(c) and §403.1.7 file
Driveway ≥ 800 ft	Turnouts no more than 400 ft apart	12' × 30' + 25' taper	§403.1.6(c) and §403.1.7 file

Turnarounds — required locations and sizing pointers

Turnarounds are required on driveways and dead-end roads; dead-end roads must have a turnaround at their terminus, and for larger parcel districts, additional interval requirements apply per the turnaround provision. See §403.1.6 (turnaround requirement) and the cross-reference in §403.1.9(b). file

Key turnaround dimensions and triggers found in the access/turnarounds provision:

Minimum turning radius: 40 ft (not including parking). If a hammerhead/T is used, the top of the T shall be a minimum of 60 ft in length.
Driveways over 300 ft: a turnaround shall be provided and must be within 50 ft of the building it serves.
Dead-end roads: each dead-end road must have a turnaround at its terminus; where parcels are zoned 5 acres or larger, additional turnarounds shall be provided at a maximum interval of 1,320 ft. file

Item	Requirement / dimension	Code Reference
Turnaround minimum radius	40 ft turning radius (excl. parking)	§403.1.6(b)
Hammerhead/T minimum top length	60 ft	§403.1.6(b)
Driveway > 300 ft	Turnaround required within 50 ft of the building	§403.1.6(d)
Dead-end road terminus	Turnaround at terminus; intervals on large parcels ≤1,320 ft	§403.1.6(e) and §403.1.9 file

If you need the full geometric figures (example plan layouts for two‑lane and single‑lane turnarounds), the CWUIC reproduces example figures and cross‑references Title 14 CCR §1273.05—see the turnaround figures and notes in the text. file

Exceptions & special cases

Exempt roads: standards in Section 403 (access) “shall not apply to roads used solely for agriculture; mining; or the management of timberland or harvesting of forest products.” Check the user note in Section 403.1.
Mixed zoning along a dead-end: where a dead-end crosses areas of different parcel sizes, the shortest applicable dead-end limit applies (so the most restrictive cap controls). §403.1.9(a).
Local jurisdiction modifications: the code repeatedly allows the local jurisdiction to approve alternate designs (e.g., one-way roads, grades, or other mitigations) — confirm with your local AHJ. See cross-references in Section 403 (local approvals).

If any specific turnaround dimension or location you need is not explicitly covered in the retrieved CWUIC passages, I will flag that — but the principal geometric minimums above (40 ft radius, 60 ft hammerhead, 12×30 turnouts with 25 ft tapers, and driveway/dead-end triggers) are present in the CWUIC text. filefile

Common mistakes

Assuming dead-end limits apply per parcel instead of cumulatively for the entire dead-end branch — §403.1.9 requires cumulative measurement.
Forgetting the parcel-size rule when a road crosses multiple zoning bands — the shortest length limit applies. §403.1.9(a).
Installing a turnout smaller than 12' × 30' or without the 25‑ft tapers — the CWUIC sets those minimum dimensions in §403.1.7.
Not providing a turnaround for a driveway longer than 300 ft or placing it farther than 50 ft from the building — required by the turnaround provision.
Relying on a one-way road longer than 2,640 ft; one-way roads are limited and require midpoint turnouts per §403.1.2(b).

Worked example

Scenario: A new subdivision street ends in a dead-end branch that serves parcels zoned 2 acres (i.e., falls in the 1.00–4.99 acre band).

Step 1 — Dead-end length limit:

For parcels zoned 1.00 – 4.99 acres, the maximum cumulative dead-end length is 1,320 ft. The developer must ensure the entire branch, including any small spur dead-ends off the main branch, stays at or below 1,320 ft measured from the edge of the intersecting road to the farthest road surface—§403.1.9.

Step 2 — Turnarounds:

Because every dead-end road must have a turnaround at its terminus, the terminus of this branch must include a turnaround built to the turnaround requirements (minimum turning radius 40 ft; if using a hammerhead/T the top must be 60 ft). See §403.1.6 and §403.1.9(b). file

Step 3 — Driveway turnouts example:

If a single property along that dead-end has a long driveway of 420 ft to its dwelling, the driveway exceeds 300 ft so a turnaround must be provided within 50 ft of the building, and because it exceeds 800 ft? (no — 420 < 800) the driveway is in the 150–799 ft band; therefore a turnout near the midpoint is required in addition to the turnaround within 50 ft of the home. The turnout must be at least 12' × 30' with 25‑ft tapers (per §403.1.7 and the turnaround/turnout provisions). file

Related provisions (CWUIC)

§403.1.7 — Turnouts (dimensions: 12' × 30' with 25' taper).
§403.1.6 — Turnarounds (turnaround required on driveways and dead-end roads; 40 ft radius; hammerhead 60 ft top; driveway/turnout spacing rules).
§403.1.9 — Dead-end Roads (maximum cumulative dead-end lengths by parcel size; measurement method; cross-reference to turnaround requirements).
§403.1.2(b) — One-way roads: lane width, 2,640 ft maximum length, midpoint turnout requirement.

If you want, I can extract and place the exact CWUIC figure examples for two‑lane and single‑lane turnarounds here or produce dimensioned sketch layouts that conform to the cited sections. The numeric minimums above are taken directly from the CWUIC passages cited. filefile

Code references

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

CWUIC § 1273.04 High relevance — show source text
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.

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

(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.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

FIGURE FOR CCR 1273.05—TURNAROUND EXAMPLES

1273.06 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five (25) foot taper on each end.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.08 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

Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet

Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet
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
APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

(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.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

FIGURE FOR CCR 1273.05—TURNAROUND EXAMPLES

1273.06 Turnouts. Turnouts shall be a minimum of twelve (12) feet wide and thirty (30) feet long with a minimum twenty-five (25) foot taper on each end.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.08 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

Parcels zoned for 1 acre to 4.99 acres – 1,320 feet

Parcels zoned for 5 acres to 19.99 acres – 2,640 feet

Parcels zoned for 20 acres or larger – 5,280 feet 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 1273.05 for dead-end road turnaround requirements.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

1273.09 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 (40) 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. The security gates and the emergency operation shall be maintained operational at all times.

Note: Authority cited: Section 4290, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 4290 and 4291, Public Resources Code.

2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-13
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 § 4-3 High relevance — show source text
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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.

(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).
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.

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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.

(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 § 4.9 Medium relevance — show source text
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CWUIC § 403.1 Medium relevance — show source text
only those sections
that are listed below||||||X|X||||||||||||||||X|| |Chapter / Section||||||||||||||||||||||||| |403|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.1.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.2.1.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3.1.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.3.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.4.7|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.4.7.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.4.8.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.5.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |403.7|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |404.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |404.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |404.12|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.2.1|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |406.2.2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |406.2.3||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |406.2.7||||X|X|X||||||||||||||||||| |406.3.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.6.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.8.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.9|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.9.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.9.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |406.9.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407||||||||||||||||||||||||| |407.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407.1.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407.2.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407.2.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |407.2.5|||X||||||||||||||||||||||

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 4-1

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

CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE CHAPTER 4 – SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY AND USE—continued
CWUIC § 120.10 Medium relevance — show source text
4(f)2 Variable Air volume (VAV) 120.10(a), 140.4(c)2, 140.4(d), 140.9(c)4, 141.0(a)2, 141.0(b)3, 160.2(c)7, 170.2(c)4A, 170.2(c)4B, Table 170.2-B, Table 170.2-C, Table 180.2-D Capacity heat pump (VCHP) 150.1(b)3, 170.1(d)2 Exhaust 140.9(c)3 Flow control 140.4(k)6, 160.3(d), 170.2(c)4I Fluid flow 140.4(k)1, 170.2(c)4I Speed 120.6(a), 120.6(b)5 Speed compressor 120.6(a)3, 120.6(a)7, 150.0(m)13, 160.3(b)5L Speed control 140.4(k)6, 140.9(b) Speed drive 120.6(e), 120.9(b), 140.4(c)1, 140.4(k)6, 160.4(e), 170.2(c)4I Speed fan 120.6(a)4, 120.6(a)8, 120.6(b)1, 150.0(o), 160.2(b)2 Ventilation 150.0(o), 160.2(b)2A Vending Machine 140.6(a)3J, K, L Vent Damper 110.2(d), 110.2(f) Vented Attic 150.0(a), 150.0(g), 150.2(b)1J, 160.1(a), 160.1(d), 180.2(b)1 Vented Range Hood 150.0(o), Table 150.0-E, 150.0(v), 160.2(b)2B, Table 160.2-E Ventilated Attic 150.1(c)9, 170.2(c), 180.2(a)1 Ventilation 120.1, 140.4(b)4, 150.0(o), 160.3(d)2 Air 120.1(d), 120.2(e), 130.1(f), 140.4(e), 140.4(m), 140.9(b), 150.0(o), 150.1(b), 150.2(a)2C, 160.2(b)2B, 160.2(c), 160.5(b), 170.1(d), 170.2(c), 180.1(a), 180.3(a) And indoor air quality 120.1, 150.0(o), 160.2(b)2 Cooling 150.1(b)3, 150.1(c)12, 150.2(a), 170.1(d) Dampers 150.0(m)8, 160.3(b) Device 10-103(b), 120.1(d), 160.2(c)5 Doors 120.6(f) Fan 120.6(f), 150.2(b)1L, 180.2(b) Load 140.4(b)4, 170.2(c) Only 120.1(h)
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 § 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)]

2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 4-3

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

WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA REQUIREMENTS

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.

Frequently asked questions

Do the dead-end limits apply per parcel or per road branch?

They apply to the cumulative length of the dead‑end road and all dead‑end roads accessed from it — not per parcel. Measure from the intersection edge to the farthest road surface. §403.1.9(a).

How big must a turnout be?

Minimum 12 feet wide by 30 feet long, with a 25‑foot taper on each end — see §403.1.7.

When is a turnaround required for a driveway?

A turnaround is required on driveways over 300 feet in length and must be within 50 feet of the building it serves. See the turnaround provision and its cross-references. §403.1.6(d).

If my dead-end passes through multiple zoning bands which length limit applies?

The shortest allowable length applies where a dead-end crosses areas of differing zoned parcel sizes. §403.1.9(a).

Can a one-way road be used to avoid turnouts or turnarounds?

One-way roads have their own limits (maximum 2,640 ft) and still require a midpoint turnout; they are subject to local authorization and must connect to two‑lane roads at both ends. See §403.1.2(b).

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Related in the CWUIC

Gate entrance requirements and emergency access through gated roads

Required road, driveway widths and vertical/horizontal clearances

What are the general fire apparatus access requirements for WUI properties?

Fire apparatus access (roads, driveways, turnouts, gates)

California Wildland-Urban Interface Code