SF Permits MCP Server

{ "metadata": { "title": "2022 San Francisco Fire Code - Key Sections for Permit Routing", "source_file": "sf-bicc-fire-codes-full.txt", "code_edition": "2022 San Francisco Fire Code", "base_code": "2022 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) based on 2021 International Fire Code", "last_amended": "Ordinance 237-24 (effective November 11, 2024)", "enacting_ordinance": "Ordinance 248-22 (effective January 15, 2023)", "extraction_date": "2026-02-13", "notes": "SF Fire Code incorporates CA Fire Code by reference with local amendments. Sections marked [For SF] are SF-specific. The prefix indicates SF replaces the corresponding state/IFC section." }, "decision_tree_key": { "description": "When SFFD (Fire Department) review is triggered for a building permit application", "triggers": [ { "trigger": "new_construction", "description": "All new building construction requires SFFD plan review", "code_section": "107.3, 107.4", "details": "Central Permit Bureau collects plan review fees for SFFD review based on project valuation" }, { "trigger": "fire_protection_system_work", "description": "Any new, modified, or extended fire sprinkler system, fire alarm system, or gaseous suppression system", "code_section": "105.1.1, 105.6, 107.5", "details": "Construction permits required through DBI; SFFD plan review and field inspection required. Inspection fees: fire alarm $272 (2hr), sprinkler $408 (3hr), gaseous suppression $272 (2hr)" }, { "trigger": "high_rise_building", "description": "Any work in buildings with occupied floors >75 feet above lowest fire dept vehicle access", "code_section": "404.2.3.1, 511.1, 914.3, 1103.5.4", "details": "High-rise buildings trigger extensive SFFD requirements: fire safety director, air replenishment (>120ft), dual risers, FDC on each street-facing side, smoke control analysis, fire command center" }, { "trigger": "assembly_occupancy", "description": "Any Group A occupancy (restaurants >49 occupants, bars, theaters, churches, arenas)", "code_section": "105.5.38, 105.5.62, 903.2 (CA FC)", "details": "Place of Assembly operational permit required ($387). Outdoor assembly >500 enclosed or >1000 open requires permit. Group A occupancies on piers need sprinklers (914.12)" }, { "trigger": "change_of_occupancy", "description": "Any change in occupancy classification, operation, tenancy, or ownership", "code_section": "105.3.1", "details": "Permits are not transferable. New permit required for any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy, or ownership" }, { "trigger": "fire_apparatus_access_impact", "description": "Any project impacting street width or fire apparatus access roads", "code_section": "503.2.1, 503.4", "details": "SFFD reviews all projects impacting street width. Min 20ft unobstructed width, 13ft 6in vertical clearance required" }, { "trigger": "lot_subdivision_with_new_residential", "description": "New residential buildings on subdivided lots", "code_section": "504.1.1", "details": "5ft clear access pathway from public right-of-way required. Rear buildings behind existing full-width buildings need sprinklered access corridor" }, { "trigger": "emergency_radio_coverage", "description": "New or modified Emergency Responder Communication Coverage System (ERRCS)", "code_section": "510.1.1, 510.6.1.1, 105.5.61", "details": "Operational permit required. Must be NRTL-certificated per AB 2.01 Addendum G and AB 3.04" }, { "trigger": "smoke_control_system", "description": "Any building requiring smoke control systems", "code_section": "909.4", "details": "Rational analysis required with construction documents submission covering active/passive zones, tenability" }, { "trigger": "commercial_kitchen_hood_suppression", "description": "Commercial cooking equipment requiring Type I hood with automatic fire suppression", "code_section": "904.13.5.2, 904 (CA FC)", "details": "Automatic fire-extinguishing systems required for commercial cooking operations. Must be serviced every 6 months. Qualified personnel per 903.5.1 required" }, { "trigger": "hazardous_materials", "description": "Storage, use, or handling of hazardous materials above threshold quantities", "code_section": "105.5 (various)", "details": "Operational permits required for compressed gas, cryogenics, explosives, flammable liquids, HPM facilities" }, { "trigger": "powered_mobility_device_facility", "description": "Storage/charging facility for 5+ e-bikes, scooters, or powered mobility devices", "code_section": "325.6", "details": "5+ devices charging indoors requires 1-hour fire barrier, sprinkler system (903.3.1.1), fire alarm (907), smoke detectors" }, { "trigger": "fuel_oil_storage", "description": "Any fuel oil storage system or fuel-oil generator", "code_section": "605.4, 605.4.2", "details": "Must comply with NFPA 30, NFPA 37, and AB 2.07 regardless of fuel quantity" } ], "routing_logic": { "always_requires_sffd_review": [ "New building construction (any occupancy)", "New or modified sprinkler system", "New or modified fire alarm system", "New or modified gaseous/hood suppression system", "High-rise building work (>75ft occupied floor)", "Change of occupancy classification", "Assembly occupancy (Group A)" ], "conditionally_requires_sffd_review": [ "Alterations with construction value triggering plan review fees (Table 107-B)", "Projects impacting fire apparatus access roads or street width", "Lot subdivision with new residential construction", "Installation or modification of ERRCS", "Buildings requiring smoke control systems", "E-bike/scooter charging facilities (5+ devices)", "Fuel oil systems or generators" ], "operational_permit_only_no_building_permit": [ "Hot work operations", "Open flame in assembly areas", "Outdoor assembly events", "Mobile food vendor carts", "LP-gas storage and use", "Indoor cannabis cultivation", "High-piled storage" ] } }, "chapter_1_administration": { "code_reference": "Chapter 1, Sections 101-113", "source_lines": "97-1210", "key_provisions": { "permits_required": { "section": "105.1.1", "rule": "Operational permits from SFFD for activities under 105.5. Construction permits (building permits) from DBI for systems/equipment under 105.6.", "important": "Any person installing or modifying fire protection systems must obtain a building permit from DBI before starting work" }, "construction_permit_fees": { "section": "107.3-107.5", "plan_review_fee_table": "107-B", "plan_review_basis": "Based on valuation of work as determined by DBI", "fee_examples": [ {"valuation": "$1-$2,000", "fee": "$80.26 base + $72.04 per additional $1,000"}, {"valuation": "$2,001-$50,000", "fee": "$159.30 base + $15.27 per additional $1,000"}, {"valuation": "$50,001-$200,000", "fee": "$892.04 base + $6.12 per additional $1,000"}, {"valuation": "$200,001-$500,000", "fee": "$1,810.95 base + $2.86 per additional $1,000"}, {"valuation": "$500,001-$1,000,000", "fee": "$2,667.58 base + $1.91 per additional $1,000"}, {"valuation": "$1,000,001-$5,000,000", "fee": "$3,620.53 base + $1.45 per additional $1,000"}, {"valuation": "Over $5,000,000", "fee": "$9,416.48 base + $0.73 per additional $1,000"} ], "revision_review_fee": "$136 per hour" }, "field_inspection_fees": { "section": "107.5", "table": "107-C", "fees": [ {"valuation_range": "$0-$10,000", "fee": "$136", "time_credit": "1 hour"}, {"valuation_range": "$10,001-$50,000", "fee": "$272", "time_credit": "2 hours"}, {"valuation_range": "$50,001-$500,000", "fee": "$408", "time_credit": "3 hours"}, {"valuation_range": "$500,001-$5,000,000", "fee": "$680", "time_credit": "5 hours"}, {"valuation_range": "$5,000,001-$10,000,000", "fee": "$1,360", "time_credit": "10 hours"}, {"valuation_range": "$10,000,001-$25,000,000", "fee": "$2,720", "time_credit": "20 hours"}, {"valuation_range": "Over $25,000,000", "fee": "$4,080", "time_credit": "30 hours"} ], "system_specific_fees": [ {"system": "New fire alarm systems", "fee": "$272", "time_credit": "2 hours"}, {"system": "New sprinkler systems", "fee": "$408", "time_credit": "3 hours"}, {"system": "New gaseous suppression systems", "fee": "$272", "time_credit": "2 hours"} ] }, "pre_application_review": { "section": "107.6", "fee": "$544 (covers up to 2hr research + 2hr meeting)", "additional": "$136/hr beyond included hours" }, "high_rise_inspection_fee": { "section": "107.8", "fee_basis": "$13.93 per 1,000 sq ft gross floor area" }, "false_alarm_fees": { "section": "107.13", "first_two_per_year": "No charge", "third_through_fifth": "$250 each", "sixth_and_beyond": "$500 each" }, "filing_fees": { "section": "107.18", "water_based_extinguishing_5yr_inspection": "$125", "fire_alarm_annual_inspection": "$75" }, "schools_registration": { "section": "102.3.1", "rule": "All schools must register with SFFD Bureau of Fire Prevention prior to occupancy" }, "historic_buildings": { "section": "102.6", "rule": "Fire code provisions not mandatory for classified historic buildings unless they constitute a distinct hazard to life or property" }, "permit_not_transferable": { "section": "105.3.1", "rule": "Permits not transferable. New permit required for any change in occupancy, operation, tenancy, or ownership" } }, "key_operational_permits": [ {"type": "Place of Assembly", "fee": "$387", "section": "105.5"}, {"type": "Outdoor Assembly Event (>500 enclosed or >1000 open)", "fee": "$387", "section": "105.5.38"}, {"type": "Hot Work Operations", "fee": "$387", "section": "105.5.25"}, {"type": "LP-Gas", "fee": "$387", "section": "105.5.29"}, {"type": "Mobile Food Vendor Carts", "fee": "$95", "section": "105.5.56"}, {"type": "Indoor Cannabis Cultivation", "fee": "$387", "section": "105.5.60"}, {"type": "ERRCS", "fee": "$387", "section": "105.5.61"}, {"type": "Car Stacking Parking (construction permit)", "fee": "per DBI", "section": "105.6.25"} ] }, "chapter_3_general_precautions": { "code_reference": "Chapter 3, Sections 308-325", "source_lines": "1211-1490", "key_provisions": { "open_flames": { "section": "308", "torches_for_paint_removal": "Prohibited (308.1.3)", "portable_open_flame_devices": "Must be enclosed/installed to prevent flame contact with combustibles (308.1.6.2)" }, "hazards_to_firefighters": { "barbed_wire": { "section": "316.7", "rule": "Prohibited on fire escapes, standpipes, parapets, roofs where it could hinder firefighters" }, "construction_type_signage": { "section": "316.8", "rule": "Buildings with composite wood joist or truss construction must post signage per AB 5.05" } }, "mobile_food_vendor_carts": { "section": "324", "permit_required": true, "max_lp_gas": "20 lb aggregate", "max_butane": "1 lb or 2 canisters", "fire_extinguisher_required": true }, "lithium_ion_batteries_powered_mobility": { "section": "325 (added by Ord. 34-24, eff. 3/23/2024)", "scope": "E-bikes, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, LEVs", "permit_trigger_for_building_work": { "5_plus_devices_charging_indoors": { "requirement": "1-hour fire barrier enclosure, automatic sprinkler system (903.3.1.1), fire alarm (907), smoke detectors, 4-A:20-B:C fire extinguisher", "section": "325.6(f)" }, "battery_charging_separation": { "attached_batteries": "3ft between devices during charging", "detached_batteries_under_20kwh": "2ft between packs", "detached_batteries_over_20kwh": "3ft between packs", "max_per_fire_area": "50 kWh aggregate" } }, "safety_certification_required": "UL 2849, UL 2272, EN 15194, EN 17128 or SFFD-approved equivalent", "reassembled_batteries_prohibited": true } } }, "chapter_5_fire_service_features": { "code_reference": "Chapter 5, Sections 503-511", "source_lines": "1625-1824", "key_provisions": { "fire_apparatus_access": { "section": "503.2.1", "minimum_width": "20 feet unobstructed", "minimum_vertical_clearance": "13 feet 6 inches", "sffd_review": "SFFD reviews all projects impacting street width; may require greater minimums case-by-case", "no_obstructions": "No parking or obstruction of fire apparatus access roads (503.4)" }, "access_to_buildings": { "divided_lot_structures": { "section": "504.1.1 (added Ord. 31-24, eff. 3/18/2024)", "rule": "New residential buildings on subdivided lots require 5ft clear pathway from public right-of-way", "rear_buildings": "Need 5ft x 80in access corridor with sprinkler protection (903.3) from public ROW" }, "roof_access": { "section": "504.3.1", "rule": "Doors to roofs must be openable from inside without key/code. Locked doors allowed only with supervised unlocking, power-failure auto-unlock, 2-way communication, and palm button" } }, "key_boxes": { "section": "506.2.1", "standard": "Per AB 5.09" }, "water_supply": { "section": "507.4", "flow_information": "SFFD provides on request ($136 fee; $272 if on-site test needed)", "validity": "1 year from date water flow info returned to applicant", "clear_space_hydrants": "5ft around hydrants (507.5.5)", "clear_space_cisterns": "5ft around cistern openings (507.5.3.1)" }, "fire_command_center": { "section": "508.1.6.1", "required_features": [ "Spare sprinklers per NFPA 13", "Elevator service company signage", "Building contact numbers", "Utility shut-off location map", "PA system instructions", "Smoke control procedures", "Sprinkler valve/standpipe isolation valve locations", "Emergency evacuation/relocation procedures", "Hazmat inventory (when required)", "Fire alarm operational matrix", "Elevator Fire Recall Keys" ], "water_protection": "Watertight construction to prevent water intrusion from sprinkler discharge (508.1.9)" }, "emergency_radio_coverage": { "section": "510", "standard": "NFPA 1225-2022 Chapter 18 and AB 2.01 Addendum G", "certification_required": "OSHA NRTL Program per AB 3.04", "existing_high_rise_deadline": "June 1, 2023", "existing_non_high_rise_deadline": "September 1, 2023" }, "air_replenishment_system": { "section": "511.1", "trigger": "Buildings with occupied floors >120ft above lowest FD vehicle access (permit applications after March 30, 2004)", "exception": "Buildings with fire service access elevator (FSAE) per CBC 3007", "purpose": "Provides means for firefighters to refill SCBA air bottles", "maintenance": "Per AB 5.07" } } }, "chapter_6_building_services": { "code_reference": "Chapter 6, Sections 604-605", "source_lines": "1825-1843", "key_provisions": { "elevators": { "section": "604.5.5", "rule": "At least one passenger elevator must be maintained in working order and accessible for immediate Fire Department use at all times" }, "fuel_oil_storage": { "section": "605.4", "installation": "Per California Mechanical Code Chapter 13", "inside_buildings": { "section": "605.4.2", "standards": "NFPA 30 and NFPA 37 apply to all fuel-oil systems and generators regardless of quantity", "local_standard": "AB 2.07 applies to all fuel-oil systems regardless of quantity" } } } }, "chapter_9_fire_protection_systems": { "code_reference": "Chapter 9, Sections 901-914", "source_lines": "1844-2173", "critical_for_permit_routing": true, "key_provisions": { "sprinkler_systems": { "section": "903", "sprinkler_triggers_from_california_fire_code": { "note": "SF incorporates CA Fire Code Section 903.2 by reference. The following are the key triggers from the California Fire Code that SF enforces, plus SF local amendments.", "group_A_assembly": { "section": "903.2.1 (CA FC)", "when_required": "Automatic sprinkler system required in Group A occupancies. Fire area >12,000 sqft, or occupant load >300, or fire area on floor other than level of exit discharge" }, "group_A_1": { "description": "Assembly with fixed seating for viewing performing arts or movies", "threshold": "Fire area >12,000 sqft OR occupant load >300 OR not on level of exit discharge" }, "group_A_2": { "description": "Assembly for food/drink consumption (restaurants, bars, banquet halls)", "threshold": "Fire area >5,000 sqft OR occupant load >100 OR not on level of exit discharge" }, "group_B_business": { "section": "903.2.2 (CA FC)", "when_required": "Fire area >12,000 sqft, or building >3 stories, or combined fire areas >24,000 sqft" }, "group_E_education": { "section": "903.2.3 (CA FC)", "when_required": "Fire area >12,000 sqft, or building >1 story (with exceptions)" }, "group_F_factory": { "section": "903.2.4 (CA FC)", "F1_moderate_hazard": "Fire area >12,000 sqft, or building >3 stories, or combined >24,000 sqft" }, "group_M_mercantile": { "section": "903.2.7 (CA FC)", "when_required": "Fire area >12,000 sqft, or building >3 stories, or combined >24,000 sqft" }, "group_R_residential": { "section": "903.2.8 (CA FC)", "when_required": "Automatic sprinkler system required throughout buildings with Group R fire area. R-1 (hotels), R-2 (apartments/condos), R-4 (residential care)" }, "group_R_sf_amendment": { "section": "903.2.8 (SF Building Code amendment)", "exception": "Additions/alterations to existing 1-2 family dwellings and townhouses (3 stories max) without existing sprinklers do NOT require sprinkler retrofit" }, "group_S_storage": { "section": "903.2.9 (CA FC)", "S1_moderate_hazard": "Fire area >12,000 sqft, or building >3 stories, or combined >24,000 sqft" }, "high_piled_storage": { "section": "903.2.7.1 (CA FC)", "when_required": "Per Chapter 32 and Table 3206.2" } }, "sf_local_sprinkler_requirements": { "existing_sro_hotels": { "section": "1103.5.1", "trigger": "Existing residential hotels with 20+ guest rooms (existing Oct 16, 2001)", "requirement": "Automatic sprinkler throughout residential occupancy including accessory areas" }, "existing_hotels": { "section": "1103.5.2", "trigger": "All hotels per Ordinance 319-86", "requirement": "Sprinklers throughout all common areas" }, "existing_high_rise": { "section": "1103.5.4", "trigger_conditions": [ "Occupied floor >120ft above lowest FD access", "Occupied floor >75ft but <=120ft AND lacks two 2-hour rated exit stairways", "Occupied floor >75ft but <=120ft AND lacks smoke detection in mechanical rooms, corridors, elevator lobbies, and at stairway enclosure doors" ], "exceptions": [ "R-2 apartments/condos: exempt until January 1, 2033", "Mixed-use with R-2: exempt until January 1, 2033" ], "compliance_schedule": "12-year maximum retrofit timeline", "permissible_omissions_for_retrofit": [ "Redundant fire pump", "2-hour rated fire pump room", "Secondary on-site water supply", "Water supply from two underground lines", "Connection to two risers per floor" ] }, "piers_group_a_and_f": { "section": "914.12", "trigger": "Group A and F occupancies on piers of combustible construction", "requirement": "Approved automatic sprinklers" }, "divided_lot_rear_buildings": { "section": "504.1.1(b)", "trigger": "New residential buildings behind existing full-width building on subdivided lot", "requirement": "Access corridor with sprinkler protection per 903.3" }, "e_bike_charging_5_plus": { "section": "325.6(f)", "trigger": "5+ powered mobility devices charging indoors", "requirement": "Sprinkler system per 903.3.1.1" } }, "installation_requirements": { "personnel": "C-16 fire protection contractor license required (903.3.10)", "fitter_cert": "CA-OSFM Fire Sprinkler Fitter Certificate required for employees", "fdc_thread": "3-inch national standard hose threads (903.3.6.1)", "4_inch_service": "Two or more FDC inlet connections required (912.8)", "high_rise_risers": "Each zone connects to at least two risers per floor (914.3.1.1)", "high_rise_fdc": "FDC on each side of building fronting a street, four inlets each (914.3.1.3)", "nfpa_13": "NFPA 13 (2016) is the referenced standard" } }, "alternative_suppression_systems": { "section": "904", "commercial_kitchen_hoods": { "section": "904.13.5.2", "requirement": "Automatic fire-extinguishing systems required for commercial cooking. Must be serviced every 6 months and after activation.", "personnel": "Qualified per 903.5.1 (C-16 license)", "inspection_record": "Certificate of inspection maintained on-site for 1 year" } }, "standpipe_systems": { "section": "905", "hose_thread": "3-inch national standard (905.2.1)", "stages": "Stages >1,000 sqft require Class III wet standpipe with 1.5in and 3in connections each side (905.3.4)", "limited_access_buildings": "Standpipes required in any building where fire code official determines necessary regardless of height (905.3.12)", "roof_outlet": "At least one 2-way outlet above roofline for slopes <4:12 (905.4.3)" }, "fire_alarm_systems": { "section": "907", "installation_personnel": "C-10 electrical contractor license required (907.1.6)", "employee_cert": "CA-DIR Electrician Certificate required", "manual_alarm_triggers_r2": { "section": "907.2.9.1", "triggers": [ "Building contains more than 6 dwelling or sleeping units", "Congregate living facilities 3+ stories OR occupant load of 11+" ] }, "automatic_smoke_detection_r2": { "section": "907.2.9.5 (SF Building Code amendment)", "trigger": "Interior corridors serving sleeping units", "exception_1": "No interior corridors AND each sleeping unit has direct exit access", "exception_2": "Building fully sprinklered (903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2) with waterflow notification and manual pull station" }, "congregate_r3": { "section": "907.2.11.2.7", "trigger": "Group R-3 congregate living with occupant load 6+", "requirement": "Manual fire alarm system" }, "annunciation": { "section": "907.6.4.1.1.1", "trigger": "Buildings with more than 4 floors or when required by fire code official", "type": "LED display showing device type by floor/zone" }, "high_rise_zoning_panel": { "section": "907.6.4.3", "requirements": "Status of emergency generator, fire pump, secondary water supply per AB 3.01" }, "certification_required": { "section": "907.7.4", "rule": "All new fire alarm systems must be NRTL-certificated", "exceptions": [ "1-2 family dwellings or 3-unit apartments (household systems)", "Control units whose primary function is sprinkler monitoring" ] }, "annual_inspection": { "section": "907.8.4", "filing_schedule_9_plus_units": "Odd-numbered years by January 31", "filing_schedule_under_9_units": "Even-numbered years by January 31", "building_permit_alarm_upgrade": { "section": "1103.7.6.1", "trigger": "Building permit with construction cost >= $99,000 OR July 1, 2023 (whichever first)", "requirement": "Upgrade fire alarm to meet NFPA 72 sleeping area sound levels (18.4.5.1)" } }, "high_rise_alarm_reporting": { "section": "907.8.7", "requirement": "Reports must state operational matrix: Full Evacuation, Partial Evacuation, or Relocation system per AB 3.05" } }, "smoke_control_systems": { "section": "909", "analysis_required": { "section": "909.4", "requirement": "Rational analysis with construction documents covering system types, operations, supporting systems, construction methods" }, "active_passive_zones": { "section": "909.4.8", "rule": "Passive zones enclosed by smoke barriers/partitions unless technically justified. Fire code official may require tenability analysis" } }, "fire_pumps": { "section": "913", "pump_room_integrity": { "section": "913.2.3", "rule": "No non-fire-pump equipment allowed in fire pump room (no domestic water, drains, HVAC, boilers, electrical switchgear)" }, "high_rise_drives": { "section": "914.3.1.2.2", "rule": "Each pump drive (power, motors, fuel, controllers) must be independent" } }, "fire_water_storage": { "section": "914.3.2", "integrity": "No non-fire water piping, electrical, or drains in fire water tank (914.3.2.1)", "overflow_routing": "Must route to remote drain, not in fire pump room (914.3.2.2)", "sump_pumps": "Permitted only when gravity not available; must be redundant, remote, emergency-powered (914.3.2.2.1)" } } }, "chapter_10_means_of_egress": { "code_reference": "Chapter 10, Sections 1010-1032", "source_lines": "2174-2434", "key_provisions": { "door_swing": { "section": "1010.1.2", "exception_6": "In non-Group A, E, H, I, R, and non-high-rise buildings: special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion, or folding doors allowed per 1010.3.3" }, "special_sliding_doors": { "section": "1010.1.4.3", "restriction": "NOT allowed in Group A, E, H, I, R, or high-rise occupancies" }, "exit_signs": { "section": "1013.1", "fire_escape_sign": "Doorways to fire escapes require 'FIRE ESCAPE' sign in 6-inch letters, high contrast" }, "emergency_escape_rescue": { "section": "1031.2.2", "lot_line_buildings": "Emergency escape may pass through building via exit passageway (per 1024) with AHJ approval" }, "fire_escape_maintenance": { "section": "1032.2.1.4", "rule": "Fire escapes must not be obstructed. No storage on fire escapes without fire code official approval. Cannot be behind locked doors", "structural_examination": { "section": "1104.16.5.1", "frequency": "Every 5 years by registered design professional", "report": "Maintained on-site, available for SFFD review" } } } }, "chapter_11_existing_buildings": { "code_reference": "Chapter 11, Sections 1101-1106", "source_lines": "2222-2434", "key_provisions": { "existing_sprinkler_requirements": { "note": "See chapter_9 sprinkler section for details on 1103.5.1 (SRO), 1103.5.2 (hotels), 1103.5.4 (high-rise)" }, "existing_fire_alarm_sleeping_area_upgrade": { "section": "1103.7.6.1", "trigger": "Building permit with cost of construction >= $99,000", "requirement": "Upgrade fire alarm system to comply with NFPA 72 sleeping area sound levels", "exception": "Mandatory seismic strengthening and transient R-1 hotels" }, "existing_fire_alarm_certification": { "section": "1103.7.10", "rule": "Fire code official may require owners to obtain certificate per AB 3.03" }, "fire_escape_structural_adequacy": { "section": "1104.16.5", "rule": "Non-combustible construction required. Must support dead + live load per original design or professional determination", "inspection_frequency": "Every 5 years per 1104.16.5.1" } } }, "appendix_m_high_rise_retroactive_sprinkler": { "code_reference": "Appendix M", "source_lines": "2539-2541", "status": "DELETED - International Fire Code Appendix M is deleted by SF", "replacement": "SF addresses high-rise retroactive sprinkler requirements through Section 1103.5.4 of the Fire Code and Administrative Bulletin AB-105", "ab_105_voluntary_sprinkler": { "source_lines": "42960-43039", "purpose": "Procedure for documenting voluntary sprinkler protection in pre-1974 high-rise buildings exempt from Ord. 377-93", "scope": "High-rise buildings built before July 1, 1974, excluded from the high-rise sprinkler retrofit ordinance", "key_steps": [ "Pre-application meeting with SFFD", "Sprinkler design per NFPA 13 edition at time of permit application", "Sprinkler special inspection by CA-licensed fire protection engineer", "Administrative Permit through DBI" ] } }, "assembly_occupancy_thresholds": { "description": "Key occupant load and area thresholds that trigger SFFD requirements for assembly uses", "group_A_general": { "sprinkler_trigger_occupant_load": 300, "sprinkler_trigger_fire_area_sqft": 12000, "sprinkler_trigger_not_on_exit_level": true }, "group_A_2_food_drink": { "description": "Restaurants, bars, nightclubs, banquet halls", "sprinkler_trigger_occupant_load": 100, "sprinkler_trigger_fire_area_sqft": 5000, "sprinkler_trigger_not_on_exit_level": true, "note": "Group A-2 has lower thresholds than other A occupancies" }, "operational_permit_place_of_assembly": { "section": "105.5 (Table 107-A)", "fee": "$387", "required_for": "All places of assembly" }, "outdoor_assembly": { "enclosed_by_fence": "Permit required if >500 persons", "open_area": "Permit required if >1000 persons" }, "fire_alarm_manual_pull": { "trigger": "More than 6 dwelling/sleeping units in R-2", "congregate": "3+ stories OR occupant load 11+ in congregate living" } }, "hood_suppression_commercial_kitchens": { "description": "Requirements for commercial cooking hood and suppression systems", "automatic_suppression": { "section": "904 (CA FC incorporated by reference), 904.13.5.2 (SF)", "requirement": "Automatic fire-extinguishing systems required for commercial cooking equipment producing grease-laden vapors (Type I hoods)", "servicing": "Every 6 months and after each activation", "personnel": "Qualified per 903.5.1 (C-16 license)", "inspection_records": "Certificate maintained on-site for 1 year", "permit_routing": "Construction permit through DBI with SFFD plan review required for new or modified systems" }, "referenced_standards": { "nfpa_96": "Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations", "ul_300": "Standard for Fire Testing of Fire Extinguishing Systems for Protection of Commercial Cooking Equipment" } }, "high_rise_requirements_summary": { "definition": "Building with occupied floor >75ft above lowest level of fire department vehicle access", "height_tiers": { "75_to_120_ft": { "fire_safety_director": "Required (404.2.3.1)", "sprinkler_retrofit_existing": "Required if lacking 2hr exit stairways OR smoke detection in key areas (1103.5.4)", "exception": "R-2 residential exempt until 2033" }, "over_120_ft": { "air_replenishment_system": "Required unless FSAE provided (511.1)", "sprinkler_retrofit_existing": "Required for all existing (1103.5.4 condition 1)", "exception": "R-2 residential exempt until 2033" } }, "new_high_rise_requirements": { "dual_risers_per_zone_per_floor": "914.3.1.1", "independent_fire_pump_drives": "914.3.1.2.2", "fdc_each_street_side_4_inlets": "914.3.1.3", "fire_command_center": "508.1.6.1", "smoke_control_analysis": "909.4", "fire_alarm_annunciation": "907.6.4.1.1.1 (LED type for >4 floors)", "high_rise_zoning_panel": "907.6.4.3", "errcs": "510.1.1", "fire_alarm_operational_matrix": "907.8.7 (Full/Partial Evacuation or Relocation)" }, "voluntary_sprinkler_pre_1974": { "administrative_bulletin": "AB-105", "process": "Pre-application meeting, NFPA 13 design, special inspection, Administrative Permit" } }, "administrative_bulletins_referenced": [ {"id": "AB 2.01 Addendum G", "subject": "Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Systems (ERRCS)"}, {"id": "AB 2.07", "subject": "Fuel-oil systems and generators"}, {"id": "AB 2.11", "subject": "Emergency procedures information and evacuation signs"}, {"id": "AB 3.01", "subject": "High-rise fire alarm zoning annunciator panel"}, {"id": "AB 3.03", "subject": "Fire alarm certification program"}, {"id": "AB 3.04", "subject": "ERRCS NRTL certification"}, {"id": "AB 3.05", "subject": "High-rise evacuation and relocation procedures"}, {"id": "AB 5.05", "subject": "Construction type signage (truss/joist)"}, {"id": "AB 5.07", "subject": "Air replenishment system testing and maintenance"}, {"id": "AB 5.09", "subject": "Key box installation and maintenance"}, {"id": "AB-105", "subject": "Voluntary sprinkler protection for existing high-rise buildings (DBI)"} ] }