Section 5704 — STORAGE

The storage of flammable and combustible liquids in containers and tanks shall be in accordance with this section and the applicable sections of Chapter 50.

1. The storage of flammable and combustible liquids in fixed above-ground and underground tanks. Exception: Tanks connected to building heating systems installed in accordance with Section 605.4.

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2. The storage of flammable and combustible liquids in fixed above-ground tanks inside of buildings. Exception: Tanks connected to building heating systems installed in accordance with Section 605.4.
3. The storage of flammable and combustible liquids in portable tanks whose capacity exceeds 660 gallons (2498 L).
4. The installation of such tanks and portable tanks.

5704.2.1 Change of tank contents. Tanks subject to change in contents shall be in accordance with Section 5704.2.7. Prior to a change in contents, the fire code official is authorized to require testing of a tank.

Tanks that have previously contained Class I liquids shall not be loaded with Class II or Class III liquids until such tanks and all piping, pumps, hoses and meters connected thereto have been completely drained and flushed.

Exception: When approved by the Enforcing Agency, the procedures prescribed in API (API-RP-2003) Recommended Practices 2003, entitled: “Protection Against Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents,” may be used for changing tank

contents.

5704.2.2 Use of tank vehicles and tank cars as storage tanks. Tank cars and tank vehicles shall not be used as storage tanks.

5704.2.3 Labeling and signs. Labeling and signs for storage tanks and storage tank areas shall comply with Sections 5704.2.3.1 and 5704.2.3.2.

5704.2.3.1 Smoking and open flame. Signs shall be posted in storage areas prohibiting open flames and smoking. Signs shall comply with Section 5703.5.

5704.2.3.2 Label or placard. Tanks more than 100 gallons (379 L) in capacity, which are permanently installed or mounted and used for the storage of Class I, II or III liquids, shall bear a label and placard identifying the material therein. Placards shall be in accordance with NFPA 704.

Exceptions:

1. Tanks of 300-gallon (1136 L) capacity or less located on private property and used for heating and cooking fuels in single-family dwellings.
2. Tanks located underground.

5704.2.4 Sources of ignition. Smoking and open flames are prohibited in storage areas in accordance with Section 5003.7.

Exception: Areas designated as smoking and hot work areas, and areas where hot work permits have been issued in accordance with this code.

5704.2.5 Explosion control. Explosion control shall be provided in accordance with Section 911 for indoor tanks.

5704.2.6 Separation from incompatible materials. Storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall be separated from incompatible materials in accordance with Section 5003.9.8.

Grass, weeds, combustible materials and waste Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall not be accumulated in an unsafe manner at a storage site.

5704.2.7 Design, fabrication and construction requirements for tanks. The design, fabrication and construction of tanks shall comply with NFPA 30. Each tank shall bear a permanent nameplate or marking indicating the standard used as the basis of design.

5704.2.7.1 Materials used in tank construction. The materials used in tank construction shall be in accordance with NFPA 30. The materials of construction for tanks and their appurtenances shall be compatible with the liquids to be stored.

5704.2.7.2 Pressure limitations for tanks. Tanks shall be designed for the pressures to which they will be subjected in accordance with NFPA 30.

5704.2.7.3 Tank vents for normal venting. Tank vents for normal venting shall be installed and maintained in accordance with Sections 5704.2.7.3.1 through 5704.2.7.3.5.3.

5704.2.7.3.1 Vent lines. Vent lines from tanks shall not be used for purposes other than venting unless approved.

5704.2.7.3.2 Vent-line flame arresters and pressure-vacuum vents. Listed or approved flame arresters or pressurevacuum (PV) vents that remain closed unless venting under pressure or vacuum conditions shall be installed in normal vents of tanks containing Class IB and IC liquids.

Vent-line flame arresters shall be installed in accordance with their listing or API 2000 and maintained in accordance with Section 21.8.6 of NFPA 30 or API 2000. In-line flame arresters in piping systems shall be installed and maintained in accordance with their listing or API 2028. Pressure-vacuum vents shall be installed in accordance with Section 21.4.3 of NFPA 30 or API 2000 and maintained in accordance with Section 21.8.6 of NFPA 30 or API 2000.

Exception: Where determined by the fire code official that the use of these devices can result in damage to the tank.

5704.2.7.3.3 Vent pipe outlets. Vent pipe outlets for tanks storing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be located such that the vapors are released at a safe point outside of buildings and not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the finished ground level. Vapors shall be discharged upward or horizontally away from adjacent walls to assist in vapor dispersion. Vent outlets shall be located such that flammable vapors will not be trapped by eaves or other obstructions and shall be not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from building openings or lot lines of properties that can be built on. Vent outlets on atmospheric tanks storing Class IIIB liquids are allowed to discharge inside a building where the vent is a normally closed vent.

Exception: Vent pipe outlets on tanks storing Class IIIB liquid inside buildings and connected to fuel-burning equipment shall be located such that the vapors are released to a safe location outside of buildings.

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5704.2.7.3.4 Installation of vent piping. Vent piping shall be designed, sized, constructed and installed in accordance with Section 5703.6. Vent pipes shall be installed such that they will drain toward the tank without sags or traps in which liquid can collect. Vent pipes shall be installed in such a manner so as not to be subject to physical damage or vibration.

5704.2.7.3.5 Manifolding. Tank vent piping shall not be manifolded unless required for special purposes such as vapor recovery, vapor conservation or air pollution control.

5704.2.7.3.5.1 Above-ground tanks. For above-ground tanks, manifolded vent pipes shall be adequately sized to prevent system pressure limits from being exceeded where manifolded tanks are subject to the same fire exposure.

5704.2.7.3.5.2 Underground tanks. For underground tanks, manifolded vent pipes shall be sized to prevent system pressure limits from being exceeded when manifolded tanks are filled simultaneously.

5704.2.7.3.5.3 Tanks storing Class I liquids. Vent piping for tanks storing Class I liquids shall not be manifolded with vent piping for tanks storing Class II and III liquids unless positive means are provided to prevent the vapors from Class I liquids from entering tanks storing Class II and III liquids, to prevent contamination and possible change in classification of less volatile liquid.

5704.2.7.4 Emergency venting. Stationary, above-ground tanks shall be equipped with additional venting that will relieve excessive internal pressure caused by exposure to fires. Emergency vents for Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall not discharge inside buildings. The venting shall be installed and maintained in accordance with Section 22.7 of NFPA 30 except as modified by Section 5703.6.2.2.

Exceptions:

1. Tanks larger than 12,000 gallons (45 420 L) in capacity storing Class IIIB liquids that are not within the diked area or the drainage path of Class I or II liquids do not require emergency relief venting.
2. Emergency vents on protected above-ground tanks complying with UL 2085 containing Class II or IIIA liquids are allowed to discharge inside the building.

5704.2.7.5 Tank openings other than vents. Tank openings for other than vents shall comply with Sections 5704.2.7.5.1 through 5704.2.7.5.8.

5704.2.7.5.1 Connections below liquid level. Connections for tank openings below the liquid level shall be liquid tight.

5704.2.7.5.2 Filling, emptying and vapor recovery connections. Filling, emptying and vapor recovery connections to tanks containing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be located outside of buildings in accordance with Section 5704.2.7.5.6 at a location free from sources of ignition and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away from building openings or lot lines of property that can be built on. Such openings shall be properly identified and provided with a liquid-tight cap that shall be closed when not in use.

ns to tanks containing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be located outside of buildings in accordance with Section 5704.2.7.5.6 at a location free from sources of ignition and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away from building openings or lot lines of property that can be built on. Such openings shall be properly identified and provided with a liquid-tight cap that shall be closed when not in use.

Filling and emptying connections to indoor tanks containing Class IIIB liquids and connected to fuel-burning equipment shall be located at a finished ground level location outside of buildings. Such openings shall be provided with a liquid-tight cap that shall be closed when not in use. A sign in accordance with Section 5003.6 that displays the following warning shall be permanently attached at the filling location:

TRANSFERRING FUEL OTHER THAN

CLASS IIIB COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID TO THIS TANK CONNECTION IS A VIOLATION

OF THE FIRE CODE AND IS STRICTLY

PROHIBITED

5704.2.7.5.3 Piping, connections and fittings. Piping, connections, fittings and other appurtenances shall be installed in accordance with Section 5703.6.

5704.2.7.5.4 Manual gauging. Openings for manual gauging, if independent of the fill pipe, shall be provided with a liquidtight cap or cover. Covers shall be kept closed when not gauging. If inside a building, such openings shall be protected against liquid overflow and possible vapor release by means of a spring-loaded check valve or other approved device.

5704.2.7.5.5 Fill pipes and discharge lines. For top-loaded tanks, a metallic fill pipe shall be designed and installed to minimize the generation of static electricity by terminating the pipe within 6 inches (152 mm) of the bottom of the tank, and it shall be installed in a manner that avoids excessive vibration.

5704.2.7.5.5.1 Class I liquids. For Class I liquids other than crude oil, gasoline and asphalt, the fill pipe shall be designed and installed in a manner that will minimize the possibility of generating static electricity by terminating within 6 inches (152 mm) of the bottom of the tank.

5704.2.7.5.5.2 Underground tanks. For underground tanks, fill pipe and discharge lines shall enter only through the top. Fill lines shall be sloped toward the tank. Underground tanks for Class I liquids having a capacity greater than 1,000 gallons (3785 L) shall be equipped with a tight fill device for connecting the fill hose to the tank.

5704.2.7.5.6 Location of connections that are made or broken. Filling, withdrawal and vapor-recovery connections for Class I, II and IIIA liquids that are made and broken shall be located outside of buildings, not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) above the finished ground level, in an approved location in close proximity to the parked delivery vehicle. Such location shall be away from sources of ignition and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) away from building openings. Such connections shall be closed and liquid tight when not in use and shall be properly identified.

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5704.2.7.5.7 Protection against vapor release. Tank openings provided for purposes of vapor recovery shall be protected against possible vapor release by means of a spring-loaded check valve or dry-break connections, or other approved device, unless the opening is a pipe connected to a vapor processing system. Openings designed for combined fill and vapor recovery shall be protected against vapor release unless connection of the liquid delivery line to the fill pipe simultaneously connects the vapor recovery line. Connections shall be vapor tight.

5704.2.7.5.8 Overfill prevention. An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 shall be provided to prevent the overfill of all Class I, II and IIIA liquid storage tanks. Storage tanks in refineries, bulk plants or terminals regulated by Section 5706.4 or 5706.7 shall have overfill protection in accordance with API 2350.

An approved means or method in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5 shall be provided to prevent the overfilling of Class IIIB liquid storage tanks connected to fuel-burning equipment inside buildings.

Exception: Outside above-ground tanks with a capacity of 1,320 gallons (5000 L) or less.

5704.2.7.6 Repair, alteration or reconstruction of tanks and piping. The repair, alteration or reconstruction, including welding, cutting and hot tapping of storage tanks and piping that have been placed in service, shall be in accordance with NFPA 30. Hot work, as defined in Section 202, on such tanks shall be conducted in accordance with Section 3510.

5704.2.7.7 Design of supports. The design of the supporting structure for tanks shall be in accordance with the California Building Code and NFPA 30.

5704.2.7.8 Locations subject to flooding. Where a tank is located in an area where it is subject to buoyancy because of a rise in the water table, flooding or accumulation of water from fire suppression operations, uplift protection shall be provided in accordance with Sections 22.14 and 23.14 of NFPA 30.

5704.2.7.9 Corrosion protection. Where subject to external corrosion, tanks shall be fabricated from corrosion-resistant materials, coated or provided with corrosion protection in accordance with Section 23.3.5 of NFPA 30.

5704.2.7.10 Leak reporting. A consistent or accidental loss of liquid, or other indication of a leak from a tank system, shall be reported immediately to the fire department, the fire code official and other authorities having jurisdiction.

5704.2.7.10.1 Leaking tank disposition. Leaking tanks shall be promptly emptied, repaired and returned to service, abandoned or removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.13 or 5704.2.14.

5704.2.7.11 Tank lining. Steel tanks are allowed to be lined only for the purpose of protecting the interior from corrosion or providing compatibility with a material to be stored. Only those liquids tested for compatibility with the lining material are allowed to be stored in lined tanks.

5704.2.8 Vaults. Vaults shall be allowed to be either above or below grade and shall comply with Sections 5704.2.8.1 through 5704.2.8.18.

5704.2.8.1 Listing required. Vaults shall be listed in accordance with UL 2245.

Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, below-grade vaults are allowed to be constructed on site, provided that the design is in accordance with the California Building Code and that special inspections are conducted to verify structural strength and compliance of the installation with the approved design in accordance with Section 1707 of the California Build- ing Code . Installation plans for below-grade vaults that are constructed on site shall be prepared by, and the design shall bear the stamp of, a professional engineer. Consideration shall be given to soil and hydrostatic loading on the floors, walls and lid; anticipated seismic forces; uplifting by groundwater or flooding; and to loads imposed from above such as traffic and equipment loading on the vault lid.

5704.2.8.2 Design and construction. The vault shall completely enclose each tank. There shall not be openings in the vault enclosure except those necessary for access to, inspection of, and filling, emptying and venting of the tank. The walls and floor of the vault shall be constructed of reinforced concrete not less than 6 inches (152 mm) thick. The top of an above-grade vault shall be constructed of noncombustible material and shall be designed to be weaker than the walls of the vault, to ensure that the thrust of an explosion occurring inside the vault is directed upward before significantly high pressure can develop within the vault.

The top of an at-grade or below-grade vault shall be designed to relieve safely or contain the force of an explosion occurring inside the vault. The top and floor of the vault and the tank foundation shall be designed to withstand the anticipated loading, including loading from vehicular traffic, where applicable. The walls and floor of a vault installed below grade shall be designed to withstand anticipated soil and hydrostatic loading.

Vaults shall be designed to be wind and earthquake resistant, in accordance with the California Building Code .

5704.2.8.3 Secondary containment. Vaults shall be substantially liquid tight and there shall not be backfill around the tank or within the vault. The vault floor shall drain to a sump. For premanufactured vaults, liquid tightness shall be certified as part of the listing provided by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. For field-erected vaults, liquid tightness shall be certified in an approved manner.

5704.2.8.4 Internal clearance. There shall be sufficient clearance between the tank and the vault to allow for visual inspection and maintenance of the tank and its appurtenances. Dispensing devices are allowed to be installed on tops of vaults.

5704.2.8.5 Anchoring. Vaults and their tanks shall be suitably anchored to withstand uplifting by ground water or flooding, including when the tank is empty.

5704.2.8.6 Vehicle impact protection. Vaults shall be resistant to damage from the impact of a motor vehicle, or vehicle impact protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 312.

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5704.2.8.7 Arrangement. Tanks shall be listed for above-ground use, and each tank shall be in its own vault. Compartmentalized tanks shall be allowed and shall be considered as a single tank. Adjacent vaults shall be allowed to share a common wall. The common wall shall be liquid and vapor tight and shall be designed to withstand the load imposed when the vault on either side of the wall is filled with water.

5704.2.8.8 Connections. Connections shall be provided to permit venting of each vault to dilute, disperse and remove vapors prior to personnel entering the vault.

5704.2.8.9 Ventilation. Vaults that contain tanks of Class I liquids shall be provided with an exhaust ventilation system installed in accordance with Section 5004.3. The ventilation system shall operate continuously or be designed to operate upon activation of the vapor or liquid detection system. The system shall provide ventilation at a rate of not less than 1 cubic foot per minute (cfm) per square foot of floor area [0.00508 m [3] /(s × m [2] )], but not less than 150 cfm (4 m [3] /min). The exhaust system shall be designed to provide air movement across all parts of the vault floor. Supply and exhaust ducts shall extend to within 3 inches (76 mm), but not more than 12 inches (305 mm), of the floor. The exhaust system shall be installed in accordance with the California Mechanical Code .

5704.2.8.10 Liquid detection. Vaults shall be equipped with a detection system capable of detecting liquids, including water, and activating an alarm.

5704.2.8.11 Monitoring and detection. Vaults shall be provided with approved vapor and liquid detection systems and equipped with on-site audible and visual warning devices with battery backup. Vapor detection systems shall sound an alarm when the system detects vapors that reach or exceed 25 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL) of the liquid stored. Vapor detectors shall be located not higher than 12 inches (305 mm) above the lowest point in the vault. Liquid detection systems shall sound an alarm upon detection of any liquid, including water. Liquid detectors shall be located in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Activation of either vapor or liquid detection systems shall cause a signal to be sounded at an approved, constantly attended location within the facility serving the tanks or at an approved location. Activation of vapor detection systems shall shut off dispenser pumps.

5704.2.8.12 Liquid removal. Means shall be provided to recover liquid from the vault. Where a pump is used to meet this requirement, the pump shall not be permanently installed in the vault. Electric-powered portable pumps shall be suitable for use in Class I, Division 1, or Zone 0 locations, as defined in the California Electrical Code.

5704.2.8.13 Normal vents. Vent pipes that are provided for normal tank venting shall terminate not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) above ground level.

5704.2.8.14 Emergency vents. Emergency vents shall be vapor tight and shall be allowed to discharge inside the vault. Longbolt manhole covers shall not be allowed for this purpose.

5704.2.8.15 Accessway. Vaults shall be provided with an approved personnel accessway with a minimum dimension of 30 inches (762 mm) and with a permanently affixed, nonferrous ladder. Accessways shall be designed to be nonsparking. Travel distance from any point inside a vault to an accessway shall not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm). At each entry point, a warning sign indicating the need for procedures for safe entry into confined spaces shall be posted. Entry points shall be secured against unauthorized entry and vandalism.

5704.2.8.16 Fire protection. Vaults shall be provided with a suitable means to admit a fire suppression agent.

5704.2.8.17 Classified area. The interior of a vault containing a tank that stores a Class I liquid shall be designated a Class I, Division 1, or Zone 0 location, as defined in the California Electrical Code.

5704.2.8.18 Overfill protection. Overfill protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.5. The use of a float vent valve shall be prohibited.

5704.2.9 Above-ground tanks. Above-ground storage of flammable and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply with Section 5704.2 and Sections 5704.2.9.1 through 5704.2.9.7.9.

5704.2.9.1 Existing noncompliant installations. Existing above-ground tanks shall be maintained in accordance with the code requirements that were applicable at the time of installation. Above-ground tanks that were installed in violation of code requirements applicable at the time of installation shall be made code compliant or shall be removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14, regardless of whether such tank has been previously inspected (see Section 109.4).

5704.2.9.2 Fire protection. Fire protection for above-ground tanks shall comply with Sections 5704.2.9.2.1 through 5704.2.9.2.4.

5704.2.9.2.1 Required foam fire protection systems. Where required by the fire code official, foam fire protection shall be provided for above-ground tanks, other than pressure tanks operating at or above 1 pound per square inch gauge (psig) (6.89 kPa) where such tank, or group of tanks spaced less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) apart measured shell to shell, has a liquid surface area in excess of 1,500 square feet (139 m [2] ), and is in accordance with one of the following:

1. Used for the storage of Class I or II liquids.
2. Used for the storage of crude oil.
3. Used for in-process products and is located within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of a fired still, heater, related fractioning or processing apparatus or similar device at a processing plant or petroleum refinery as herein defined.
4. Considered by the fire code official as posing an unusual exposure hazard because of topographical conditions; nature of occupancy, proximity on the same or adjoining property, and height and character of liquids to be

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stored; degree of private fire protection to be provided; and facilities of the fire department to cope with flammable liquid fires.

5704.2.9.2.2 Foam fire protection system installation. Where foam fire protection is required, it shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 11.

5704.2.9.2.2.1 Foam storage. Where foam fire protection is required, foam-producing materials shall be stored on the premises.

Exception: Storage of foam-producing materials off the premises is allowed as follows:

1. Such materials stored off the premises shall be of the proper type suitable for use with the equipment at the installation where required.
2. Such materials shall be readily available at the storage location at all times.
3. Adequate loading and transportation facilities shall be provided.
4. The time required to deliver such materials to the required location in the event of fire shall be consistent with the hazards and fire scenarios for which the foam supply is intended.
5. At the time of a fire, these off-premises supplies shall be accumulated in sufficient quantities before placing the equipment in operation to ensure foam production at an adequate rate without interruption until extinguishment is accomplished.

5704.2.9.2.3 Fire protection of supports. Supports or pilings for above-ground tanks storing Class I, II or IIIA liquids elevated more than 12 inches (305 mm) above grade shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours in accordance with the fire exposure criteria specified in ASTM E1529.

Exceptions:

1. Structural supports tested as part of a protected above-ground tank in accordance with UL 2085.
2. Stationary tanks located outside of buildings where protected by an approved water-spray system designed in accordance with Chapter 9 and NFPA 15.
3. Stationary tanks located inside of buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system designed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

5704.2.9.2.4 Inerting of tanks storing boilover liquids. Liquids with boilover characteristics shall not be stored in fixed roof tanks larger than 150 feet (45 720 mm) in diameter unless an approved gas enrichment or inerting system is provided on the tank.

Exception: Crude oil storage tanks in production fields with no other exposures adjacent to the storage tank.

5704.2.9.3 Supports, foundations and anchorage. Supports, foundations and anchorages for above-ground tanks shall be designed and constructed in accordance with NFPA 30 and the California Building Code .

5704.2.9.4 Stairways, platforms and walkways. Stairways, platforms and walkways shall be of noncombustible construction and shall be designed and constructed in accordance with NFPA 30 and the California Building Code .

5704.2.9.5 Above-ground tanks inside of buildings. Above-ground tanks inside of buildings shall comply with Sections 5704.2.9.5.1 and 5704.2.9.5.2.

5704.2.9.5.1 Overfill prevention. Above-ground tanks storing Class I, II and IIIA liquids inside buildings shall be equipped with a device or other means to prevent overflow into the building including, but not limited to: a float valve; a preset meter on the fill line; a valve actuated by the weight of the tank’s contents; a low-head pump that is incapable of producing overflow; or a liquid-tight overflow pipe not less than one pipe size larger than the fill pipe and discharging by gravity back to the outside source of liquid or to an approved location. Tanks containing Class IIIB liquids and connected to fuelburning equipment shall be provided with a means to prevent overflow into buildings in accordance with Section 5704.2.7.5.8.

5704.2.9.5.2 Fill pipe connections. Fill pipe connections for tanks storing Class I, II and IIIA liquids and Class IIIB liquids connected to fuel-burning equipment shall be in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7.6.

5704.2.9.6 Above-ground tanks outside of buildings. Above-ground tanks outside of buildings shall comply with Sections 5704.2.9.6.1 through 5704.2.9.6.3.

5704.2.9.6.1 Locations where above-ground tanks are prohibited. Storage of Class I and II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings is prohibited within the limits established by law as set forth in the fire code adoption ordinance or other regulation adopted by the jurisdiction.

5704.2.9.6.1.1 Location of tanks with pressures 2.5 psig or less. Above-ground tanks operating at pressures not exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) for storage of Class I, II or IIIA liquids, which are designed with a floating roof, a weak roofto-shell seam or equipped with emergency venting devices limiting pressure to 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa), shall be located in accordance with Table 22.4.1.1(a) of NFPA 30.

Exceptions:

1. Vertical tanks having a weak roof-to-shell seam and storing Class IIIA liquids are allowed to be located at one-half the distances specified in Table 22.4.1.1(a) of NFPA 30, provided that the tanks are not within a diked area or drainage path for a tank storing Class I or II liquids.

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2. Liquids with boilover characteristics and unstable liquids in accordance with Sections 5704.2.9.6.1.3 and 5704.2.9.6.1.4.

3. For protected above-ground tanks in accordance with Section 5704.2.9.7 and tanks in at-grade or abovegrade vaults in accordance with Section 5704.2.8, the distances in Table 22.4.1.1(b) of NFPA 30 shall apply and shall be reduced by one-half, but not to less than 5 feet (1524 mm).

5704.2.9.6.1.2 Location of tanks with pressures exceeding 2.5 psig. Above-ground tanks for the storage of Class I, II or IIIA liquids operating at pressures exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) or equipped with emergency venting allowing pressures to exceed 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) shall be located in accordance with Table 22.4.1.3 of NFPA 30.

Exception: Liquids with boilover characteristics and unstable liquids in accordance with Sections 5704.2.9.6.1.3 and 5704.2.9.6.1.4.

5704.2.9.6.1.3 Location of tanks storing boilover liquids. Above-ground tanks for storage of liquids with boilover characteristics shall be located in accordance with Table 2204.1.4.1 of NFPA 30.

5704.2.9.6.1.4 Location of tanks storing unstable liquids. Above-ground tanks for the storage of unstable liquids shall be located in accordance with Table 22.4.1.5 of NFPA 30.

5704.2.9.6.1.5 Location of tanks storing Class IIIB liquids. Above-ground tanks for the storage of Class IIIB liquids, excluding unstable liquids, shall be located in accordance with Table 22.1.5 of NFPA 30, except where located within a diked area or drainage path for a tank or tanks storing Class I or II liquids. Where a Class IIIB liquid storage tank is within the diked area or drainage path for a Class I or II liquid, distances required by Section 5704.2.9.6.1.1 shall apply.

5704.2.9.6.1.6 Reduction of separation distances to adjacent property. Where two tank properties of diverse ownership have a common boundary, the fire code official is authorized to, with the written consent of the owners of the two properties, apply the distances in Sections 5704.2.9.6.1.2 through 5704.2.9.6.1.5 assuming a single property.

5704.2.9.6.2 Separation between adjacent stable or unstable liquid tanks. The separation between tanks containing stable liquids shall be in accordance with Table 22.4.2.1 of NFPA 30. Where tanks are in a diked area containing Class I or II liquids, or in the drainage path of Class I or II liquids, and are compacted in three or more rows or in an irregular pattern, the fire code official is authorized to require greater separation than specified in Table 22.4.2.1 of NFPA 30 or other means to make tanks in the interior of the pattern open for firefighting purposes.

The separation between tanks containing unstable liquids shall be not less than one-half the sum of their diameters.

Exception: Tanks used for storing Class IIIB liquids are allowed to be spaced 3 feet (914 mm) apart unless within a diked area or drainage path for a tank storing Class I or II liquids.

5704.2.9.6.3 Separation between adjacent tanks containing flammable or combustible liquids and LP-gas. The minimum horizontal separation between an LP-gas container and a Class I, II or IIIA liquid storage tank shall be 20 feet (6096 mm) except in the case of Class I, II or IIIA liquid tanks operating at pressures exceeding 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) or equipped with emergency venting allowing pressures to exceed 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa), in which case the provisions of Section 5704.2.9.6.2 shall apply.

An approved means shall be provided to prevent the accumulation of Class I, II or IIIA liquids under adjacent LP-gas containers such as by dikes, diversion curbs or grading. Where flammable or combustible liquid storage tanks are within a diked area, the LP-gas containers shall be outside the diked area and not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) away from the centerline of the wall of the diked area.

Exceptions:

1. Liquefied petroleum gas containers of 125 gallons (473 L) or less in capacity installed adjacent to fuel-oil supply tanks of 660 gallons (2498 L) or less in capacity.
2. Horizontal separation is not required between above-ground LP-gas containers and underground flammable and combustible liquid tanks.

5704.2.9.7 Additional requirements for protected above-ground tanks. In addition to the requirements of this chapter for above-ground tanks, the installation of protected above-ground tanks shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.2.9.7.1 through 5704.2.9.7.9.

5704.2.9.7.1 Tank construction. The construction of a protected above-ground tank and its primary tank shall be in accordance with Section 5704.2.7.

5704.2.9.7.2 Normal and emergency venting. Normal and emergency venting for protected above-ground tanks shall be provided in accordance with Sections 5704.2.7.3 and 5704.2.7.4. The vent capacity reduction factor shall not be allowed.

5704.2.9.7.3 Secondary containment. Protected above-ground tanks shall be provided with secondary containment, drainage control or diking in accordance with Section 5004.2. A means shall be provided to establish the integrity of the secondary containment in accordance with NFPA 30.

5704.2.9.7.4 Vehicle impact protection. Where protected above-ground tanks, piping, electrical conduit or dispensers are subject to vehicular impact, they shall be protected therefrom, either by having the impact protection incorporated into the system design in compliance with the impact test protocol of UL 2085, or by meeting the provisions of Section 312, or where necessary, a combination of both. Where guard posts or other approved barriers are provided, they shall be independent of each above-ground tank.

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5704.2.9.7.5 Overfill prevention. Protected above-ground tanks shall not be filled in excess of 95 percent of their capacity. An overfill prevention system shall be provided for each tank. During tank-filling operations, the system shall comply with one of the following:

1. The overfill prevention system shall include the following: 1.1. An independent means of notifying the person filling the tank that the fluid level has reached 90 percent of tank capacity by providing an audible or visual alarm signal, providing a tank level gauge marked at 90 percent of tank capacity, or other approved means. 1.2. Automatic shut off of the flow of fuel to the tank when the quantity of liquid in the tank reaches 95 percent of tank capacity. For rigid hose fuel-delivery systems, an approved means shall be provided to empty the fill hose into the tank after the automatic shutoff device is activated.
2. The system shall reduce the flow rate to not more than 15 gallons per minute (0.95 L/s) so that at the reduced flow rate, the tank will not overfill for 30 minutes, and automatically shut off flow into the tank so that none of the fittings on the top of the tank are exposed to product because of overfilling.

d to empty the fill hose into the tank after the automatic shutoff device is activated. 2. The system shall reduce the flow rate to not more than 15 gallons per minute (0.95 L/s) so that at the reduced flow rate, the tank will not overfill for 30 minutes, and automatically shut off flow into the tank so that none of the fittings on the top of the tank are exposed to product because of overfilling.

5704.2.9.7.5.1 Information signs. A permanent sign shall be provided at the fill point for the tank, documenting the filling procedure and the tank calibration chart.

Exception: Where climatic conditions are such that the sign has the potential to be obscured by ice or snow, or weathered beyond readability or otherwise impaired, said procedures and chart shall be located in the office window, lock box or other area available to the person filling the tank.

5704.2.9.7.5.2 Determination of available tank capacity. The filling procedure shall require the person filling the tank to determine the gallonage (literage) required to fill it to 90 percent of capacity before commencing the fill operation.

5704.2.9.7.6 Fill pipe connections. The fill pipe shall be provided with a means for making a direct connection to the tank vehicle’s fuel delivery hose so that the delivery of fuel is not exposed to the open air during the filling operation. Where any portion of the fill pipe exterior to the tank extends below the level of the top of the tank, a check valve shall be installed in the fill pipe not more than 12 inches (305 mm) from the fill hose connection.

5704.2.9.7.7 Spill containers. A spill container having a capacity of not less than 5 gallons (19 L) shall be provided for each fill connection. For tanks with a top fill connection, spill containers shall be noncombustible and shall be fixed to the tank and equipped with a manual drain valve that drains into the primary tank. For tanks with a remote fill connection, a portable spill container shall be allowed.

5704.2.9.7.8 Tank openings. Tank openings in protected above-ground tanks shall be through the top only.

5704.2.9.7.9 Antisiphon devices. Approved antisiphon devices shall be installed in each external pipe connected to the protected above-ground tank where the pipe extends below the level of the top of the tank.

5704.2.10 Drainage and diking. The area surrounding a tank or group of tanks shall be provided with drainage control or shall be diked to prevent accidental discharge of liquid from endangering adjacent tanks, adjoining property or reaching waterways.

Exceptions:

1. The fire code official is authorized to alter or waive these requirements based on a technical report that demonstrates that such tank or group of tanks does not constitute a hazard to other tanks, waterways or adjoining property, after consideration of special features such as topographical conditions, nature of occupancy and proximity to buildings on the same or adjacent property, capacity, and construction of proposed tanks and character of liquids to be stored, and nature and quantity of private and public fire protection provided.
2. Drainage control and diking is not required for listed secondary containment tanks.

5704.2.10.1 Volumetric capacity. The volumetric capacity of the diked area shall be not less than the greatest amount of liquid that can be released from the largest tank within the diked area. The capacity of the diked area enclosing more than one tank shall be calculated by deducting the volume of the tanks other than the largest tank below the height of the dike.

5704.2.10.2 Diked areas containing two or more tanks. Diked areas containing two or more tanks shall be subdivided in accordance with NFPA 30.

5704.2.10.3 Protection of piping from exposure fires. Piping shall not pass through adjacent diked areas or impounding basins, unless provided with a sealed sleeve or otherwise protected from exposure to fire.

5704.2.10.4 Combustible materials in diked areas. Diked areas shall be kept free from combustible materials, drums and barrels.

5704.2.10.5 Equipment, controls and piping in diked areas. Pumps, manifolds and fire protection equipment or controls shall not be located within diked areas or drainage basins or in a location where such equipment and controls would be endangered by fire in the diked area or drainage basin. Piping above ground shall be minimized and located as close as practical to the shell of the tank in diked areas or drainage basins.

Exceptions:

1. Pumps, manifolds and piping integral to the tanks or equipment being served, which is protected by intermediate diking, berms, drainage or fire protection such as water spray, monitors or resistive coating.
2. Fire protection equipment or controls that are appurtenances to the tanks or equipment being protected, such as foam chambers or foam piping and water or foam monitors and hydrants, or hand and wheeled extinguishers.

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5704.2.11 Underground tanks. Underground storage of flammable and combustible liquids in tanks shall comply with Section 5704.2 and Sections 5704.2.11.1 through 5704.2.11.4.2.1.

5704.2.11.1 Location. Flammable and combustible liquid storage tanks located underground, either outside or under buildings, shall be in accordance with all of the following:

1. Tanks shall be located with respect to existing foundations and supports such that the loads carried by the latter cannot be transmitted to the tank.

2. The distance from any part of a tank storing liquids to the nearest wall of a basement, pit, cellar or lot line shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm).

3. A minimum distance of 1 foot (305 mm), shell to shell, shall be maintained between underground tanks.

5704.2.11.2 Depth and cover. Excavation for underground storage tanks shall be made with due care to avoid undermining of foundations of existing structures. Underground tanks shall be set on firm foundations and surrounded with not less than 6 inches (152 mm) of noncorrosive inert material, such as clean sand.

5704.2.11.3 Overfill protection and prevention systems. Fill pipes shall be equipped with a spill container and an overfill prevention system in accordance with NFPA 30.

5704.2.11.4 Leak prevention. Leak prevention for underground tanks shall comply with Sections 5704.2.11.4.1 and 5704.2.11.4.2.

5704.2.11.4.1 Inventory control. Daily inventory records for underground storage tank systems shall be maintained.

5704.2.11.4.2 Leak detection. Underground storage tank systems shall be provided with an approved method of leak detection from any component of the system that is designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 30.

5704.2.11.4.2.1 Location. The leak detection panel status shall be annunciated at an approved on-site location.

5704.2.12 Testing. Tank testing shall comply with Sections 5704.2.12.1 and 5704.2.12.2.

5704.2.12.1 Acceptance testing. Prior to being placed into service, tanks shall be tested in accordance with Section 21.5 of NFPA 30.

5704.2.12.2 Testing of underground tanks. Before being covered or placed in use, tanks and piping connected to underground tanks shall be tested for tightness in the presence of the fire code official. Piping shall be tested in accordance with Section 5703.6.3. The system shall not be covered until it has been approved.

5704.2.13 Abandonment and status of tanks. Tanks taken out of service shall be removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14, or safeguarded in accordance with Sections 5704.2.13.1 through 5704.2.13.2.3 and API 1604.

5704.2.13.1 Underground tanks. Underground tanks taken out of service shall comply with Sections 5704.2.13.1.1 through 5704.2.13.1.5.

5704.2.13.1.1 Temporarily out of service. Underground tanks temporarily out of service shall have the fill line, gauge opening, vapor return and pump connection secure against tampering. Vent lines shall remain open and be maintained in accordance with Sections 5704.2.7.3 and 5704.2.7.4.

5704.2.13.1.2 Out of service for 90 days. Underground tanks not used for a period of 90 days shall be safeguarded in accordance with all the following or be removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14:

1. Flammable or combustible liquids shall be removed from the tank.
2. All piping, including fill line, gauge opening, vapor return and pump connection, shall be capped or plugged and secured from tampering.
3. Vent lines shall remain open and be maintained in accordance with Sections 5704.2.7.3 and 5704.2.7.4.

n accordance with all the following or be removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14:

1. Flammable or combustible liquids shall be removed from the tank.
2. All piping, including fill line, gauge opening, vapor return and pump connection, shall be capped or plugged and secured from tampering.
3. Vent lines shall remain open and be maintained in accordance with Sections 5704.2.7.3 and 5704.2.7.4.

5704.2.13.1.3 Out of service for one year. Underground tanks that have been out of service for a period of one year shall be removed from the ground in accordance with Section 5704.2.14 or abandoned in place in accordance with Section 5704.2.13.1.4.

5704.2.13.1.4 Tanks abandoned in place. Tanks abandoned in place shall be as follows:

1. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be removed from the tank and connected piping.
2. The suction, inlet, gauge, vapor return and vapor lines shall be disconnected.
3. The tank shall be filled completely with an approved inert solid material.
4. Remaining underground piping shall be capped or plugged.
5. A record of tank size, location and date of abandonment shall be retained.
6. All exterior above-grade fill piping shall be permanently removed when tanks are abandoned or removed.

5704.2.13.1.5 Reinstallation of underground tanks. Tanks that are to be reinstalled for flammable or combustible liquid service shall be in accordance with this chapter, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (Section VIII), API 1615, UL 58 and UL 1316.

5704.2.13.2 Above-ground tanks. Above-ground tanks taken out of service shall comply with Sections 5704.2.13.2.1 through 5704.2.13.2.3.

5704.2.13.2.1 Temporarily out of service. Above-ground tanks temporarily out of service shall have all connecting lines isolated from the tank and be secured against tampering.

Exception: In-place fire protection (foam) system lines.

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5704.2.13.2.2 Out of service for 90 days. Above-ground tanks not used for a period of 90 days shall be safeguarded in accordance with Section 5704.2.13.1.2 or removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14.

Exceptions:

1. Tanks and containers connected to oil burners that are not in use during the warm season of the year or are used as a backup heating system to gas.
2. In-place, active fire protection (foam) system lines.

5704.2.13.2.3 Out of service for one year. Above-ground tanks that have been out of service for a period of 1 year shall be removed in accordance with Section 5704.2.14.

Exception: Tanks within operating facilities.

5704.2.14 Removal and disposal of tanks. Removal and disposal of tanks shall comply with Sections 5704.2.14.1 and 5704.2.14.2.

5704.2.14.1 Removal. Removal of above-ground and underground tanks shall be in accordance with all of the following:

1. Flammable and combustible liquids shall be removed from the tank and connected piping.
2. Piping at tank openings that is not to be used further shall be disconnected.
3. Piping shall be removed from the ground.

Exception: Piping is allowed to be abandoned in place where the fire code official determines that removal is not practical. Abandoned piping shall be capped and safeguarded as required by the fire code official. 4. Tank openings shall be capped or plugged, leaving a [1] / 8 -inch to [1] / 4 -inch-diameter (3.2 mm to 6.4 mm) opening for pressure equalization. 5. Tanks shall be purged of vapor and inerted prior to removal. 6. All exterior above-grade fill and vent piping shall be permanently removed.

Exception: Piping associated with bulk plants, terminal facilities and refineries.

5704.2.14.2 Disposal. Tanks shall be disposed of in accordance with federal, state and local regulations.

5704.2.15 Maintenance. Above-ground tanks, connected piping and ancillary equipment shall be maintained in a safe operating condition. Tanks shall be maintained in accordance with their listings. Damage to above-ground tanks, connected piping or ancillary equipment shall be repaired using materials having equal or greater strength and fire resistance or the equipment shall be replaced or taken out of service.

Storage of flammable and combustible liquids in closed containers that do not exceed 60 gallons (227 L) in individual capacity and portable tanks that do not exceed 660 gallons (2498 L) in individual capacity, and limited transfers incidental thereto, shall comply with Sections 5704.3.1 through 5704.3.8.5.

5704.3.1 Design, construction and capacity of containers and portable tanks. The design, construction and capacity of containers for the storage of Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall be in accordance with this section and Section 9.4 of NFPA 30.

5704.3.1.1 Approved containers. Only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used.

5704.3.2 Liquid storage cabinets. Where other sections of this code require that liquid containers be stored in storage cabinets, such cabinets and storage shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.3.2.1 through 5704.3.2.2.

5704.3.2.1 Design and construction of storage cabinets. Design and construction of liquid storage cabinets shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.3.2.1.1 through 5704.3.2.1.4.

5704.3.2.1.1 Materials. Cabinets shall be listed in accordance with UL 1275, or constructed of approved wood or metal in accordance with the following:

1. Unlisted metal cabinets shall be constructed of steel having a thickness of not less than 0.044 inch (1.12 mm) (18 gage). The cabinet, including the door, shall be double walled with 1 [1] / 2 -inch (38 mm) airspace between the walls. Joints shall be riveted or welded and shall be tight fitting.
2. Unlisted wooden cabinets, including doors, shall be constructed of not less than 1-inch (25 mm) exterior grade plywood. Joints shall be rabbeted and shall be fastened in two directions with wood screws. Door hinges shall be of steel or brass. Cabinets shall be painted with an intumescent-type paint.

5704.3.2.1.2 Labeling. Cabinets shall be provided with a conspicuous label in red letters on contrasting background that reads: “FLAMMABLE—KEEP FIRE AWAY.”

5704.3.2.1.3 Doors. Doors shall be well fitted, self-closing and equipped with a three-point latch.

5704.3.2.1.4 Bottom. The bottom of the cabinet shall be liquid tight to a height of not less than 2 inches (51 mm).

5704.3.2.2 Capacity. The combined total quantity of liquids in a cabinet shall not exceed 120 gallons (454 L).

5704.3.3 Indoor storage. Storage of flammable and combustible liquids inside buildings in containers and portable tanks shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.3.3.1 through 5704.3.3.10.

Exceptions:

1. Liquids in the fuel tanks of motor vehicles, aircraft, boats or portable or stationary engines.
2. The storage of distilled spirits and wines in wooden barrels or casks.

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5704.3.3.1 Portable fire extinguishers. Approved portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with specific sections of this chapter and Section 906. 5704.3.3.2 Incompatible materials. Materials that will react with water or other liquids to produce a hazard shall not be stored in the same room with flammable and combustible liquids except where stored in accordance with Section 5003.9.8. 5704.3.3.3 Clear means of egress. Storage of any liquids, including stock for sale, shall not be stored near or be allowed to obstruct physically the route of egress. 5704.3.3.4 Empty containers or portable tank storage. The storage of empty tanks and containers previously used for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids, unless free from explosive vapors, shall be stored as required for filled containers and portable tanks. Portable tanks and containers, when emptied, shall have the covers or plugs immediately replaced in openings. 5704.3.3.5 Shelf storage. Shelving shall be of approved construction, adequately braced and anchored. Seismic requirements shall be in accordance with the California Building Code . 5704.3.3.5.1 Use of wood. Wood of not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness is allowed to be used as shelving, racks, dunnage, scuffboards, floor overlay and similar installations. 5704.3.3.5.2 Displacement protection. Shelves shall be of sufficient depth and provided with a lip or guard to prevent individual containers from being displaced. Exception: Shelves in storage cabinets or on laboratory furniture specifically designed for such use. 5704.3.3.5.3 Orderly storage. Shelf storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall be maintained in an orderly manner. 5704.3.3.6 Rack storage. Where storage on racks is allowed elsewhere in this code, a minimum 4-foot-wide (1219 mm) aisle shall be provided between adjacent rack sections and any adjacent storage of liquids. Main aisles shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) wide. 5704.3.3.7 Pile or palletized storage. Solid pile and palletized storage in liquid warehouses shall be arranged so that piles are separated from each other by not less than 4 feet (1219 mm). Aisles shall be provided and arranged so that containers or portable tanks are not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) from an aisle. Main aisles shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) wide. 5704.3.3.8 Limited combustible storage. Limited quantities of combustible commodities are allowed to be stored in liquid storage areas where the ordinary combustibles, other than those used for packaging the liquids, are separated from the liquids in storage by not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) horizontally, either by open aisles or by open racks, and where protection is provided in accordance with Chapter 9. 5704.3.3.9 Idle combustible pallets. Storage of empty or idle combustible pallets inside an unprotected liquid storage area shall be limited to a maximum pile size of 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) and to a maximum storage height of 6 feet (1829 mm). Storage of empty or idle combustible pallets inside a protected liquid storage area shall comply with NFPA 13. Pallet storage shall be separated from liquid storage by aisles that are not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) wide. 5704.3.3.10 Containers in piles. Containers in piles shall be stacked in such a manner as to provide stability and to prevent excessive stress on container walls. Portable tanks stored more than one tier high shall be designed to nest securely, without dunnage. Material-handling equipment shall be suitable to handle containers and tanks safely at the upper tier level. 5704.3.4 Quantity limits for storage. Liquid storage quantity limitations shall comply with Sections 5704.3.4.1 through 5704.3.4.4. 5704.3.4.1 Maximum allowable quantity per control area. For occupancies other than Group M wholesale and retail sales uses, indoor storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area indicated in Table 5003.1.1(1) and shall not exceed the additional limitations set forth in this section. For Group M occupancy wholesale and retail sales uses, indoor storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area indicated in Table 5704.3.4.1. Storage of hazardous production material flammable and combustible liquids in Group H-5 occupancies shall be in accordance with Chapter 27.

d the additional limitations set forth in this section. For Group M occupancy wholesale and retail sales uses, indoor storage of flammable and combustible liquids shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area indicated in Table 5704.3.4.1. Storage of hazardous production material flammable and combustible liquids in Group H-5 occupancies shall be in accordance with Chapter 27.

TABLE 5704.3.4.1—MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA OF
FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS IN WHOLESALE AND RETAIL SALES OCCUPANCIESa

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 gallon per minute per square foot = 40.75 L/min/m2.
a. Control areas shall be separated from each other by not less than a 1-hour fire barrier.
b. To be considered as sprinklered, a building shall be equipped throughout with an_approved_ automatic sprinkler system with a design providing minimum densities as follows:
1. For uncartoned commodities on shelves 6 feet or less in height where the ceiling height does not exceed 18 feet, quantities are those allowed with a minimum sprinkler
design density of Ordinary Hazard Group 2.
2. For cartoned, palletized or racked commodities where storage is 4 feet 6 inches or less in height and where the ceiling height does not exceed 18 feet, quantities are
those allowed with a minimum sprinkler design density of 0.21 gallon per minute per square foot over the most remote 1,500-square-foot area.
c. Where wholesale and retail sales or storage areas exceed 50,000 square feet in area, the maximum allowable quantities are allowed to be increased by 2 percent for each
1,000 square feet of area in excess of 50,000 square feet, up to not more than 100 percent of the table amounts. A control area separation is not required. The cumulative
amounts, including amounts attained by having an additional control area, shall not exceed 30,000 gallons.

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5704.3.4.2 Occupancy quantity limits. The following limits for quantities of stored flammable or combustible liquids shall not be exceeded:

1. Group A occupancies: Quantities in Group A occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

2. Group B occupancies: Quantities in drinking, dining, office and school uses within Group B occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

3. Group E occupancies: Quantities in Group E occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, treatment, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

4. Group F occupancies: Quantities in dining, office, and school uses within Group F occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

5. Group I occupancies: Quantities in Group I occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

6. Group M occupancies: Quantities in dining, office, and school uses within Group M occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1). The maximum allowable quantities for storage in wholesale and retail sales areas shall be in accordance with Section 5704.3.4.1.

7. Group R occupancies: Quantities in Group R occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

8. Group S occupancies: Quantities in dining and office uses within Group S occupancies shall not exceed that necessary for demonstration, laboratory work, maintenance purposes and operation of equipment, and shall not exceed quantities set forth in Table 5003.1.1(1).

5704.3.4.3 Quantities exceeding limits for control areas. Quantities exceeding those allowed in control areas set forth in Section 5704.3.4.1 shall be in liquid storage rooms or liquid storage warehouses in accordance with Sections 5704.3.7 and 5704.3.8.

5704.3.4.4 Liquids for maintenance and operation of equipment. In all occupancies, quantities of flammable and combustible liquids in excess of 10 gallons (38 L) used for maintenance purposes and the operation of equipment shall be stored in liquid storage cabinets in accordance with Section 5704.3.2. Quantities not exceeding 10 gallons (38 L) are allowed to be stored outside of a cabinet where in approved containers located in private garages or other approved locations.

5704.3.5 Storage in control areas. Storage of flammable and combustible liquids in control areas shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.3.5.1 through 5704.3.5.4.

5704.3.5.1 Basement storage. Class I liquids shall be allowed to be stored in basements in amounts not exceeding the maximum allowable quantity per control area for use-open systems in Table 5003.1.1(1), provided that fire protection systems are provided in accordance with Chapter 9. Class II and IIIA liquids shall be allowed to be stored in basements, provided that automatic suppression and other fire protection are provided in accordance with Chapter 9.

5704.3.5.2 Storage pile heights. Containers having less than a 30-gallon (114 L) capacity that contain Class I or II liquids shall not be stacked more than 3 feet (914.4 mm) or two containers high, whichever is greater, unless stacked on fixed shelving or otherwise satisfactorily secured. Containers of Class I or II liquids having a capacity of 30 gallons (114 L) or more shall not be stored more than one container high. Containers shall be stored in an upright position.

5704.3.5.3 Storage distance from ceilings and roofs. Piles of containers or portable tanks shall not be stored closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to the nearest beam, chord, girder or other obstruction, and shall be 3 feet (914 mm) below sprinkler deflectors or discharge orifices of water spray or other overhead fire protection system.

5704.3.5.4 Combustible materials. In areas that are not open to the public, Class I, II and IIIA liquids shall not be stored in the same pile or rack section as ordinary combustible commodities unless such materials are packaged together as kits.

5704.3.6 Wholesale and retail sales uses. Flammable and combustible liquids in Group M occupancy wholesale and retail sales uses shall be in accordance with Sections 5704.3.6.1 through 5704.3.6.5, or Sections 10.10.2, 12.3.6, 16.4.1 through 16.4.3, 16.5.1 through 16.5.2.12, Figures 16.4.1(a) through 16.4.1(c) and Tables 16.5.2.1 through 16.5.2.12, of NFPA 30.

5704.3.6.1 Container type. Containers for Class I liquids shall be metal.

Exception: In sprinklered buildings, an aggregate quantity of 120 gallons (454 L) of water-miscible Class IB and Class IC liquids is allowed in nonmetallic containers, each having a capacity of 16 ounces (0.473 L) or less.

5704.3.6.2 Container capacity. Containers for Class I liquids shall not exceed a capacity of 5 gallons (19 L).

Exception: Metal containers not exceeding 55 gallons (208 L) are allowed to store up to 240 gallons (908 L) of the maximum allowable quantity per control area of Class IB and IC liquids in a control area. The building shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Table 5704.3.4.1. The containers shall be provided with plastic caps without cap seals and shall be stored upright. Containers shall not be stacked or stored in racks and shall not be located in areas open to the public.

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5704.3.6.3 Fire protection and storage arrangements. Fire protection and container storage arrangements shall be in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(1) or the following:

1. Storage on shelves shall not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) in height, and shelving shall be metal.
2. Storage on pallets or in piles greater than 4 feet 6 inches (1372 mm) in height, or where the ceiling exceeds 18 feet (5486 mm) in height, shall be protected in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(4), and the storage heights and arrangements shall be limited to those specified in Table 5704.3.6.3(2).
3. Storage on racks greater than 4 feet 6 inches (1372 mm) in height, or where the ceiling exceeds 18 feet (5486 mm) in height shall be protected in accordance with Tables 5704.3.6.3(5), 5704.3.6.3(6), and 5704.3.6.3(7) as appropriate, and the storage heights and arrangements shall be limited to those specified in Table 5704.3.6.3(3).

Combustible commodities shall not be stored above flammable and combustible liquids.

TABLE 5704.3.6.3(1)—MAXIMUM STORAGE HEIGHT IN CONTROL AREA

TABLE 5704.3.6.3(2)—STORAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR PALLETIZED OR
SOLID-PILE STORAGE IN LIQUID STORAGE ROOMS AND WAREHOUSES

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. See Section 5704.3.8.1 for unlimited quantities in liquid storage warehouses.
b. In buildings protected by an automatic sprinkler system, the storage height for containers and portable tanks shall not exceed the maximum storage height permitted for the
fire protection scheme set forth in NFPA 30 or the maximum storage height demonstrated in a full-scale fire test, whichever is greater. NFPA 30 criteria and fire test results for
metallic containers and portable tanks shall not be applied to nonmetallic containers and portable tanks.
c. These height limitations are allowed to be increased to 10 feet for containers having a capacity of 5 gallons or less.
d. For palletized storage of unsaturated polyester resins (UPR) in relieving-style metal containers with 50 percent or less by weight Class IC or II liquid and no Class IA or IB liquid,
height and pile quantity limits shall be permitted to be 10 feet and 15,000 gallons, respectively, provided that such storage is protected by sprinklers in accordance with NFPA
30 and that the UPR storage area is not located in the same containment area or drainage path for other Class I or II liquids.

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TABLE 5704.3.6.3(3)—STORAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE IN LIQUID STORAGE ROOMS AND WAREHOUSES

TABLE 5704.3.6.3(4)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION FOR
SOLID-PILE AND PALLETIZED STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS AND PORTABLE TANKSa

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TABLE 5704.3.6.3(4)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION FOR
SOLID-PILE AND PALLETIZED STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS AND PORTABLE TANKSa—continued

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5704.3.6.4 Warning for containers. Cans, containers and vessels containing flammable liquids or flammable liquid compounds or mixtures offered for sale shall be provided with a warning indicator, painted or printed on the container and stating that the liquid is flammable, and shall be kept away from heat and an open flame.

5704.3.6.5 Storage plan. Where required by fire the code official, aisle and storage plans shall be submitted in accordance with Chapter 50.

5704.3.7 Liquid storage rooms. Liquid storage rooms shall comply with Sections 5704.3.7.1 through 5704.3.7.5.2.

5704.3.7.1 General. Quantities of liquids exceeding those set forth in Section 5704.3.4.1 for storage in control areas shall be stored in a liquid storage room complying with this section and constructed and separated as required by the California Build- ing Code .

5704.3.7.2 Quantities and arrangement of storage. The quantity limits and storage arrangements in liquid storage rooms shall be in accordance with Tables 5704.3.6.3(2) and 5704.3.6.3(3) and Sections 5704.3.7.2.1 through 5704.3.7.2.3.

5704.3.7.2.1 Mixed storage. Where two or more classes of liquids are stored in a pile or rack section, both of the following shall apply:

1. The quantity in that pile or rack shall not exceed the smallest of the maximum quantities for the classes of liquids stored in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(2) or 5704.3.6.3(3).
2. The height of storage in that pile or rack shall not exceed the smallest of the maximum heights for the classes of liquids stored in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(2) or 5704.3.6.3(3).

5704.3.7.2.2 Separation and aisles. Piles shall be separated from each other by not less than 4-foot (1219 mm) aisles. Aisles shall be provided so that all containers are 20 feet (6096 mm) or less from an aisle. Where the storage of liquids is on racks, a minimum 4-foot-wide (1219 mm) aisle shall be provided between adjacent rows of racks and adjacent storage of liquids. Main aisles shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) wide.

Additional aisles shall be provided for access to doors, required windows and ventilation openings, standpipe connections, mechanical equipment and switches. Such aisles shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width, unless greater widths are required for separation of piles or racks, in which case the greater width shall be provided.

5704.3.7.2.3 Stabilizing and supports. Containers and piles shall be separated by pallets or dunnage to provide stability and to prevent excessive stress to container walls. Portable tanks stored over one tier shall be designed to nest securely without dunnage.

Requirements for portable tank design shall be in accordance with Chapters 9 and 12 of NFPA 30. Shelving, racks, dunnage, scuffboards, floor overlay and similar installations shall be of noncombustible construction or of wood not less than a 1-inch (25 mm) nominal thickness. Adequate material-handling equipment shall be available to handle tanks safely at upper tier levels.

5704.3.7.3 Spill control and secondary containment. Liquid storage rooms shall be provided with spill control and secondary containment in accordance with Section 5004.2.

5704.3.7.4 Ventilation. Liquid storage rooms shall be ventilated in accordance with Section 5004.3.

5704.3.7.5 Fire protection. Fire protection for liquid storage rooms shall comply with Sections 5704.3.7.5.1 and 5704.3.7.5.2.

5704.3.7.5.1 Fire-protection systems. Liquid storage rooms shall be protected by automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Chapter 9 and Tables 5704.3.6.3(4) through 5704.3.6.3(7) and Table 5704.3.7.5.1. In-rack sprinklers shall also comply with NFPA 13.

Automatic foam-water systems and automatic aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) water sprinkler systems shall not be used except where approved.

Protection criteria developed from fire modeling or full-scale fire testing conducted at an approved testing laboratory are allowed in lieu of the protection as shown in Tables 5704.3.6.3(2) through 5704.3.6.3(7) and Table 5704.3.7.5.1 where approved.

TABLE 5704.3.7.5.1—AUTOMATIC AFFF-WATER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
SOLID-PILE AND PALLETIZED STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESSa, b

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5704.3.7.5.2 Portable fire extinguishers. Not less than one approved portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 and having a rating of not less than 20-B shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) or more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from any Class I or II liquid storage area located outside of a liquid storage room.

Not less than one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20-B shall be located outside of, but not more than 10 feet (3048 mm) from, the door opening into a liquid storage room.

5704.3.8 Liquid storage warehouses. Buildings used for storage of flammable or combustible liquids in quantities exceeding those set forth in Section 5704.3.4 for control areas and Section 5704.3.7 for liquid storage rooms shall comply with Sections 5704.3.8.1 through 5704.3.8.5 and shall be constructed and separated as required by the California Building Code .

5704.3.8.1 Quantities and storage arrangement. The total quantities of liquids in a liquid storage warehouse shall not be limited. The arrangement of storage shall be in accordance with Table 5704.3.6.3(2) or 5704.3.6.3(3).

5704.3.8.1.1 Mixed storage. Mixed storage shall be in accordance with Section 5704.3.7.2.1.

5704.3.8.1.2 Separation and aisles. Separation and aisles shall be in accordance with Section 5704.3.7.2.2.

5704.3.8.2 Spill control and secondary containment. Liquid storage warehouses shall be provided with spill control and secondary containment as set forth in Section 5004.2.

5704.3.8.3 Ventilation. Liquid storage warehouses storing containers greater than 5 gallons (19 L) in capacity shall be ventilated at a rate of not less than 0.25 cfm per square foot (0.00127 m [3] /s × m [2] ) of floor area over the storage area.

5704.3.8.4 Automatic sprinkler systems. Liquid storage warehouses shall be protected by automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Chapter 9 and Tables 5704.3.6.3(4) through 5704.3.6.3(7) and Table 5704.3.7.5.1, or Sections 16.4.1 through 16.4.3, 16.5.1 through 16.5.3.12, and Figures 16.4.1(a) through 16.4.1(c) and Tables 16.5.3.1 through 16.5.3.12 of NFPA 30. In-rack sprinklers shall also comply with NFPA 13.

Automatic foam-water systems and automatic AFFF water sprinkler systems shall not be used except where approved.

Protection criteria developed from fire modeling or full-scale fire testing conducted at an approved testing laboratory are allowed in lieu of the protection as shown in Tables 5704.3.6.3(2) through 5704.3.6.3(7) and Table 5704.3.7.5.1 where approved. 5704.3.8.5 Warehouse hose lines. In liquid storage warehouses, either 1 [1] / 2 -inch (38 mm) lined or 1-inch (25 mm) hard rubber hose lines shall be provided in sufficient number to reach all liquid storage areas and shall be in accordance with Section 903 or 905.

Storage of flammable and combustible liquids in closed containers and portable tanks outside of buildings shall be in accordance with Section 5703 and Sections 5704.4.1 through 5704.4.8. Capacity limits for containers and portable tanks shall be in accordance with Section 5704.3.

5704.4.1 Plans. Storage shall be in accordance with approved plans.

5704.4.2 Location on property. Outdoor storage of liquids in containers and portable tanks shall be in accordance with Table 5704.4.2. Storage of liquids near buildings located on the same lot shall be in accordance with this section.

TABLE 5704.4.2—OUTDOOR LIQUID STORAGE IN CONTAINERS AND PORTABLE TANKS

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon 3.785 L.
a. For mixed class storage, see Section 5704.4.2.
b. For storage in racks, the quantity limits per pile do not apply, but the rack arrangement shall be limited to not more than 50 feet in length and two rows or 9 feet in depth.
c. If protection by a public fire department or private fire brigade capable of providing cooling water streams is not available, the distance shall be doubled.
d. Where the total quantity stored does not exceed 50 percent of the maximum allowed per pile, the distances are allowed to be reduced 50 percent, but not less than 3 feet.

5704.4.2.1 Mixed liquid piles. Where two or more classes of liquids are stored in a single pile, the quantity in the pile shall not exceed the smallest of maximum quantities for the classes of material stored.

5704.4.2.2 Access. Storage of containers or portable tanks shall be provided with fire apparatus access roads in accordance with Chapter 5.

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5704.4.2.3 Security. The storage area shall be protected against tampering or trespassers where necessary and shall be kept free from weeds, debris and other combustible materials not necessary to the storage.

5704.4.2.4 Storage adjacent to buildings. Not more than 1,100 gallons (4163 L) of liquids stored in closed containers and portable tanks is allowed adjacent to a building located on the same premises and under the same management, provided that one of the following requirements is met:

1. The building does not exceed one story in height. Such building shall be of fire-resistance-rated construction with noncombustible exterior surfaces or noncombustible construction and shall be used principally for the storage of liquids.
2. The exterior building wall adjacent to the storage area shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 hours, having no openings to above-grade areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally of such storage and no openings to below-grade areas within 50 feet (15 240 mm) horizontally of such storage.

The quantity of liquids stored adjacent to a building protected in accordance with Item 2 is allowed to exceed 1,100 gallons (4163 L), provided that the maximum quantity per pile does not exceed 1,100 gallons (4163 L) and each pile is separated by a 10-foot-minimum (3048 mm) clear space along the common wall.

Where the quantity stored exceeds 1,100 gallons (4163 L) adjacent to a building complying with Item 1, or the provisions of Item 1 cannot be met, a minimum distance in accordance with Table 5704.4.2, column 7 (“Minimum Distance to Lot Line of Property That Can Be Built On”) shall be maintained between buildings and the nearest container or portable tank.

5704.4.3 Spill control and secondary containment. Storage areas shall be provided with spill control and secondary containment in accordance with Section 5703.4.

Exception: Containers stored on approved containment pallets in accordance with Section 5004.2.3 and containers stored in cabinets and lockers with integral spill containment.

5704.4.4 Security. Storage areas shall be protected against tampering or trespassers by fencing or other approved control

measures.

5704.4.5 Protection from vehicles. Guard posts or other means shall be provided to protect exterior storage tanks from vehicular damage. Where guard posts are installed, the posts shall be installed in accordance with Section 312.

5704.4.6 Clearance from combustibles. The storage area shall be kept free from weeds, debris and combustible materials not necessary to the storage. The area surrounding an exterior storage area shall be kept clear of such materials for a minimum distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).

5704.4.7 Weather protection. Weather protection for outdoor storage shall be in accordance with Section 5004.13.

5704.4.8 Empty containers and tank storage. The storage of empty tanks and containers previously used for the storage of flammable or combustible liquids, unless free from explosive vapors, shall be stored as required for filled containers and tanks. Tanks and containers when emptied shall have the covers or plugs immediately replaced in openings.