Section 903 — AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

903.1.1 Alternative protection. Alternative automatic fire-extinguishing systems complying with Section 904 shall be permitted instead of automatic sprinkler system protection where recognized by the applicable standard and approved by the fire code official.

Approved automatic sprinkler systems in new buildings and structures shall be provided in the locations described in Sections 903.2.1 through 903.2.12 and Sections 903.2.14 through 903.2.21.

Exception: Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, associated electrical power distribution equipment, batteries not required to have an automatic sprinkler system by Section 1207 for energy storage systems and standby engines, provided that those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 of the California Building Code, or both.

903.2.1 Group A. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings and portions thereof used as Group A occupancies as provided in this section.

903.2.1.1 Group A-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-1 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-1 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).

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2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.
4. The fire area contains a multiple-theater complex.

903.2.1.2 Group A-2. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-2 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-2 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 100 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies. 4. The structure exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m [2] ), contains more than one fire area containing a Group A-2 occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.

area has an occupant load of 100 or more. 3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies. 4. The structure exceeds 5,000 square feet (465 m [2] ), contains more than one fire area containing a Group A-2 occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.

903.2.1.3 Group A-3. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-3 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-3 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies. 4. The structure exceeds 12,000 square feet (1155 m [2] ), contains more than one fire area containing exhibition and display rooms, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.

903.2.1.4 Group A-4. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout stories containing Group A-4 occupancies and throughout all stories from the Group A-4 occupancy to and including the levels of exit discharge serving that occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. The fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. The fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more.
3. The fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

903.2.1.5 Group A-5. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for all enclosed Group A-5 accessory use areas in excess of 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ).

903.2.1.5.1 Spaces under grandstands or bleachers. Enclosed spaces under grandstands or bleachers shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 where either of the following exist:

1. The enclosed area is 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) or less and is not constructed in accordance with Section 1030.1.1.1.
2. The enclosed area exceeds 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ).

903.2.1.6 Assembly occupancies on roofs. Where an occupied roof has an assembly occupancy with an occupant load exceeding 100 for Group A-2 and 300 for other Group A occupancies, all floors between the occupied roof and the level of exit discharge shall be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2.

Exception: Open parking garages of Type I or Type II construction.

903.2.1.7 Multiple fire areas. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided where multiple fire areas of Group A-1, A-2, A-3 or A-4 occupancies share exit or exit access components and the combined occupant load of these fire areas is 300 or more.

903.2.2 Group B. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group B occupancies as required in Sections 903.2.2.1 and 903.2.2.2.

903.2.2.1 Ambulatory care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor containing an ambulatory care facility where either of the following conditions exist at any time:

1. Four or more care recipients are incapable of self-preservation.
2. One or more care recipients that are incapable of self-preservation are located at other than the level of exit discharge serving such a facility.

In buildings where ambulatory care is provided on levels other than the level of exit discharge, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the entire floor as well as all floors below where such care is provided, and all floors between the level of ambulatory care and the nearest level of exit discharge, the level of exit discharge, and all floors below the level of exit discharge.

Exception: Floors classified as an open parking garage are not required to be sprinklered.

903.2.2.2 Laboratories involving research and development or testing. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the fire areas utilized for the research and development or testing of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.

903.2.3 Group E. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided for Group E occupancies as follows:

1. Throughout all Group E fire areas greater than 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ) in area.
2. The Group E fire area is located on a floor other than a level of exit discharge serving such occupancies.

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Exception: In buildings where every classroom has not fewer than one exterior exit door at ground level, an automatic sprinkler system is not required in any area below the lowest level of exit discharge serving that area. 3. The Group E fire area has an occupant load of 300 or more. 4. In rooms or areas with special hazards such as laboratories, vocational shops and other such areas where hazardous mate- rials in quantities not exceeding the maximum allowable quantity are used or stored. 5. Throughout any Group E structure greater than 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ) in area, which contains more than one fire area, and which is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings. 6. For public school state-funded construction projects see Section 903.2.19. 7. For public school campuses, Kindergarten through 12th grade, see Section 903.2.20.

eater than 12,000 square feet (1115 m_ [2] ) in area, which contains more than one fire area, and which is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings. 6. For public school state-funded construction projects see Section 903.2.19. 7. For public school campuses, Kindergarten through 12th grade, see Section 903.2.20.

903.2.4 Group F-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group F-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. A Group F-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. A Group F-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group F-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m [2] ).
4. A Group F-1 occupancy is used to manufacture lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries.
5. A Group F-1 occupancy is used to manufacture vehicles, energy storage systems or equipment containing lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries where the batteries are installed as part of the manufacturing process.

903.2.4.1 Woodworking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all Group F-1 occupancy fire areas that contain woodworking operations in excess of 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) in area that generate finely divided combustible waste or use finely divided combustible materials. [SFM] A fire wall of less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating with- out openings, or any fire wall with openings, shall not be used to establish separate fire areas.

903.2.4.2 Group F-1 distilled spirits. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area used for the manufacture of distilled spirits.

903.2.4.3 Group F-1 upholstered furniture or mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group F-1 fire area that exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) used for the manufacture of upholstered furniture or mattresses.

903.2.5 Group H. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in high-hazard occupancies as required in Sections 903.2.5.1 through 903.2.5.3.

903.2.5.1 General. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in Group H occupancies.

903.2.5.2 Group H-5 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings containing Group H5 occupancies. The design of the automatic sprinkler system shall be not less than that required under the California Building Code for the occupancy hazard classifications in accordance with Table 903.2.5.2.

Where the design area of the automatic sprinkler system consists of a corridor protected by one row of sprinklers, the maximum number of sprinklers required to be calculated is 13.

TABLE 903.2.5.2—GROUP H-5 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGN CRITERIA

903.2.5.3 Pyroxylin plastics. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in buildings, or portions thereof, where cellulose nitrate film or pyroxylin plastics are manufactured, stored or handled in quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg).

903.2.5.4 Group H occupancies located on the 11th story and above. The fire sprinkler system shall be designed and zoned to provide separate indication upon water-flow for each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier on the 11th story and above.

903.2.6 Group I. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings with a Group I fire area.

Exceptions: 1. Those areas exempted by Section 407.6 of the California Building Code. 2. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13113 (d), Group I-2 occupancies, or any alterations thereto, located in Type IA construction in existence on March 4, 1972.

903.2.6.1 Group I-2. An existing, unsprinklered Group I-2, nurses’ station open to fire-resistive exit access corridors shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system located directly above the nurses’ station. It shall be permitted to connect the auto- matic sprinkler system to the domestic water service.

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903.2.6.2 Group I-3. Every building, or portion thereof, where inmates or persons are in custody or restrained shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system conforming to NFPA 13. The main sprinkler control valve or valves and all other control valves in the system shall be locked in the open position and electrically supervised so that at least an audible and visual alarm will sound at a constantly attended location when valves are closed. The sprinkler branch piping serving cells may be embedded in the concrete construction.

903.2.7 Group M. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings containing a Group M occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. A Group M fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. A Group M fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group M fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m [2] ). 4. [SFM] The structure exceeds 24,000 square feet (465 m [2] ), contains more than one fire area containing a Group M occupancy, and is separated into two or more buildings by fire walls of not less than 4-hour fire-resistance rating without openings.

903.2.7.1 High-piled storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided as required in Chapter 32 in all buildings of Group M where storage of merchandise is in high-piled or rack storage arrays.

903.2.7.2 Group M upholstered furniture or mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group M fire area where the area used for the display and sale of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).

903.2.7.3 Lithium-ion or lithium metal battery storage. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in a room or space within a Group M occupancy where required for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries by Section 320 or Chapter 32.

903.2.8 Group R. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3 shall be provided throughout all buildings with a Group R fire area.

Exceptions:

1. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies not housing bedridden clients, not housing nonambulatory clients above the first floor, and not housing clients above the second floor. 2. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to Group R-3.1 occupancies housing only one bedridden client and complying with Section 435.8.3.3 of the California Building Code. 3. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code, Section 13113, occupancies housing ambulatory children only, none of whom are mentally ill children or children with intellectual disabilities, and the buildings or portions thereof in which such children are housed are not more than two stories in height, and buildings or portions thereof housing such children have an automatic fire alarm system activated by approved smoke detectors. 4. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code, Section 13143.6, occupancies licensed for protective social care which house ambu- latory clients only, none of whom is a child (under the age of 18 years), or who is elderly (65 years of age or over). When not used in accordance with area or height increases for automatic fire sprinklers allowed in the California Build- ing Code, an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.2 shall be allowed in Group R-2.1 occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system designed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall not be utilized in Group R-2.1 or R-4 occupancies.

903.2.8.1 Group R-3. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in Group R-3 occupancies.

903.2.8.2 Reserved.

903.2.8.3 Care facilities. An automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3 shall be permitted in care facilities with five or fewer individuals in a single-family dwelling.

903.2.9 Group S-1. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings containing a Group S-1 occupancy where one of the following conditions exists:

1. A Group S-1 fire area exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. A Group S-1 fire area is located more than three stories above grade plane.
3. The combined area of all Group S-1 fire areas on all floors, including any mezzanines, exceeds 24,000 square feet (2230 m [2] ).
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).
5. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal powered vehicles where the fire area exceeds 500 square feet (46.4 m [2] ).

903.2.9.1 Repair garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout all buildings used as repair garages in accordance with Section 406.8 of the California Building Code, as shown:

1. Buildings having two or more stories above grade plane, including basements, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ).

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2. Buildings not more than one story above grade plane, with a fire area containing a repair garage exceeding 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
3. Buildings with repair garages servicing vehicles parked in basements.
4. A Group S-1 fire area used for the repair of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).
5. A Group S-1 fire area used for the storage of lithium-ion or lithium metal powered vehicles where the fire area exceeds 500 square feet (46.4 m [2] ).

903.2.9.2 Bulk storage of tires. Buildings and structures where the area for the storage of tires exceeds 20,000 cubic feet (566 m [3] ) shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

903.2.9.3 Group S-1 distilled spirits or wine. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group S-1 fire area used for the bulk storage of distilled spirits or wine.

903.2.9.4 Group S-1 upholstered furniture and mattresses. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout a Group S-1 fire area where the area used for the storage of upholstered furniture or mattresses exceeds 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ).

Exception: Self-service storage facilities not greater than one story above grade plane where all storage spaces can be accessed directly from the exterior.

903.2.10 Group S-2 parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings classified as parking garages where any of the following conditions exist:

1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.

throughout buildings classified as parking garages where any of the following conditions exist:

1. Where the fire area of the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, exceeds 12,000 square feet (1115 m [2] ).
2. Where the enclosed parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.6 of the California Building Code, is located beneath other groups.

Exception: Enclosed parking garages located beneath Group R-3 occupancies. 3. Where the fire area of the open parking garage, in accordance with Section 406.5 of the California Building Code, exceeds 48,000 square feet (4460 m [2] ).

903.2.10.1 Commercial parking garages. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for storage of commercial motor vehicles where the fire area exceeds 5,000 square feet (464 m [2] ).

903.2.10.2 Mechanical-access enclosed parking garages. An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout buildings used for the storage of motor vehicles in a mechanical-access enclosed parking garage. The portion of the building that contains the mechanical-access enclosed parking garage shall be protected with a specially engineered automatic sprinkler system.

903.2.11 Specific buildings areas and hazards. In all occupancies other than Group U, an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed for building design or hazards in the locations set forth in Sections 903.2.11.1 through 903.2.11.6.

903.2.11.1 Stories without openings. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout all stories, including basements, of all buildings where the floor area exceeds 1,500 square feet (139 m [2] ) and where the story does not comply with the following criteria for exterior wall openings:

1. Openings below grade that lead directly to ground level by an exterior stairway complying with Section 1011 or an outside ramp complying with Section 1012. Openings shall be located in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on not fewer than one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm).
2. Openings entirely above the adjoining ground level totaling not less than 20 square feet (1.86 m [2] ) in each 50 linear feet (15 240 mm), or fraction thereof, of exterior wall in the story on not fewer than one side. The required openings shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent openings does not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm). The height of the bottom of the clear opening shall not exceed 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.

903.2.11.1.1 Opening dimensions and access. Openings shall have a minimum dimension of not less than 30 inches (762 mm). Access to such openings shall be provided for the fire department from the exterior and shall not be obstructed in a manner such that firefighting or rescue cannot be accomplished from the exterior.

903.2.11.1.2 Openings on one side only. Where openings in a story are provided on only one side and the opposite wall of such story is more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from such openings, the story shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, or openings shall be provided on not fewer than two sides of the story.

903.2.11.1.3 Basements. Where any portion of a basement is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from openings required by Section 903.2.11.1, or where walls, partitions or other obstructions are installed that restrict the application of water from hose streams, the basement shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

903.2.11.2 Rubbish and linen chutes. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed at the top of rubbish and linen chutes and in their terminal rooms. Chutes shall have additional sprinkler heads installed at alternate floors and at the lowest intake. Where a rubbish chute extends through a building more than one floor below the lowest intake, the extension shall have sprinklers installed that are recessed from the drop area of the chute and protected from freezing in accordance with Section

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903.3.1.1. Such sprinklers shall be installed at alternate floors, beginning with the second level below the last intake and ending with the floor above the discharge. Access to sprinklers in chutes shall be provided for servicing.

903.2.11.3 Buildings 55 feet or more in height. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings that have one or more stories with an occupant load of 30 or more located 55 feet (16 764 mm) or more above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, measured to the finished floor.

Exception: Occupancies in Group F-2.

903.2.11.4 Ducts conveying hazardous exhausts. Where required by the California Mechanical Code, automatic sprinklers shall be provided in ducts conveying hazardous exhaust or flammable or combustible materials.

Exception: Ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is less than 10 inches (254 mm).

903.2.11.5 Commercial cooking operations. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in commercial kitchen exhaust hood and duct systems where an automatic sprinkler system is used to comply with Section 904.

903.2.11.6 Other required fire protection systems. In addition to the requirements of Section 903.2, the provisions indicated in Table 903.2.11.6 require the installation of a fire protection system for certain buildings and areas.

TABLE 903.2.11.6—ADDITIONAL REQUIRED FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS

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TABLE 903.2.11.6—ADDITIONAL REQUIRED FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS—continued

903.2.12 During construction. Automatic sprinkler systems required during construction, alteration and demolition operations shall be provided in accordance with Section 3307.

903.2.13 Reserved.

903.2.14 Motion picture and television production studio sound stages, approved production facilities and production locations.

903.2.14.1 Existing Sound Stages and Approved Production Facilities. All existing sound stages and approved production facil- ities equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system shall be maintained in accordance with the provisions in this chapter.

903.2.14.2 New sound stages. All new sound stages shall be equipped with an approved automatic fire sprinkler system. The system shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of the California Fire Code, Chapter 9, and shall meet the minimum design requirements of an Extra Hazard, Group 2 system.

903.2.15 Automatic sprinkler system – existing high-rise buildings. Regardless of any other provisions of these regulations, every existing high-rise building of Type II-B, Type III-B or Type V-B construction shall be provided with an approved automatic sprinkler system conforming to NFPA 13.

903.2.15.1 Existing R-1 and R-2 high-rise buildings fire-extinguishing systems. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems installed in any existing high-rise structure in which a Group R-1 or a Group R-2 occupancy is located shall have an approved flow indicator electrically interconnected to the required fire alarm system.

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903.2.16 Group L occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout buildings housing Group L occupancies. Sprinkler systems for Group L occupancy shall be designed for the square footage area of the Group L occupancy based on an area of sprinkler operation of 2,500 square feet (232 m [2] ) and design density of 0.20 gpm/sf.

In mixed occupancies, portions of floors with Group L occupancies, but not classified as Group L, shall be provided with a sprinkler protection system per NFPA 13.

903.2.16.1 Group L occupancies located on the 11th story and above. The automatic sprinkler system shall be designed and zoned to provide separate indication upon water-flow for each side of the 2-hour fire-smoke barrier on the 11th story and above.

903.2.17 Fixed guideway and passenger rail transit systems.

903.2.17.1 Automatic sprinkler system. An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in all stations of fixed guideway transit systems.

Exceptions: 1. Guideways when the closest sprinkler heads to the guideway are within 3 feet (914 mm) of the edge, over the platform and spaced 6 feet (1829 mm) on center, parallel to the guideway. 2. Station agent booths not exceeding 150 square feet (13.9 m [2] ) in area, when provided with an approved smoke detec- tor connected to the building fire alarm system.

3. Power substations.

4. Machinery rooms, electrical rooms and train control rooms protected by an approved automatic fixed fire-extinguish- ing system.

5. Open stations. 6. Station platform areas open to three or more sides.

903.2.17.2 Station guideway deluge system. Underground stations and stations in open cuts with walls 5 feet (1524 mm) above the top of the running rail and with a raised platform shall be provided with an under-vehicle guideway manually activated deluge sprinkler system. In open cut stations, such system shall be provided in guideways which are situated between a raised platform edge and a retaining wall.

903.2.17.2.1 Systems shall be provided along the entire length of track at each station platform.

903.2.17.2.2 Deluge nozzles with caps shall be located in the approximate center of track with spacing designed to completely wet the undersides of the vehicle at the applied density. 903.2.17.2.3 System density shall be a minimum of 0.19 gallon per minute (gpm) per square foot (0.72 L/m per m [2] ) for the design area. When more than one zone is provided, two adjacent zones are required to be considered operating for calculating

purposes.

903.2.17.2.4 Deluge systems shall be directly connected to a water supply capable of supplying the required flow rate for a mini- mum 30-minute duration.

903.2.17.2.5 Controls or manually operable valves shall be in a location acceptable to the Fire Code Official. All deluge systems shall be monitored by the station fire alarm system.

903.2.17.2.6 Each valve shall be monitored by a separate circuit. The alarm panel shall be located in an area normally occupied by station personnel or signals shall be transmitted to the operations control center (OCC).

903.2.18 Group U private garages and carports accessory to Group R-3 occupancies. Carports with habitable space above and attached garages, accessory to Group R-3 occupancies, shall be protected by residential fire sprinklers in accordance with this section. Residential fire sprinklers shall be connected to, and installed in accordance with, an automatic residential fire sprinkler system that complies with Section R313 of the California Residential Code or with NFPA 13D. Fire sprinklers shall be residential sprin- klers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a minimum density of 0.05 gpm/ft [2 ] (2.04 mm/min) over the area of the garage and/or carport, but not to exceed two sprinklers for hydraulic calculation purposes. Garage doors shall not be considered obstruc- tions with respect to sprinkler placement.

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall not be required when additions or alterations are made to existing carports and/or garages that do not have an automatic residential fire sprinkler system installed in accordance with this section.

903.2.19 Public school state-funded construction projects for kindergarten through 12th grade — automatic sprinkler system requirements.

903.2.19.1 New public school campus. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all occupancies. The provisions of this section shall apply to any public school project consisting of one or more buildings on a new school campus and receiving state funds pursuant to Leroy F. Greene School Facilities Act of 1998, California Education Code, Sections 17070.10 through 17079. For purposes of this section, new campus refers to a school site, where an application for construction of original buildings was made to DSA on or after July 1, 2002.

An automatic fire sprinkler system is not required in locations identified in Section 903.2.20.

903.2.19.1.1 Sprinklers shall be installed in spaces where the ceiling creates a “ceiling-plenum” or the space above the ceiling is utilized for environmental air.

903.2.19.1.2 Fire-resistive substitution for new campus. A new public school campus shall be entitled to include in the design and construction documents all of the applicable fire-resistive construction substitutions as permitted by this code.

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903.2.20 Public school campuses. An automatic fire sprinkler system is not required to be provided in the following locations on Kindergarten through 12th grade. 1. A relocatable building that is sited with the intent that it be at the site for less than three years and is sited upon a temporary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit easy removal. Also see CCR, Title 24, Part 1, California Administrative Code, Section 4-314 for definition of relocatable building. 2. Detached buildings designed and used for non-instructional purposes that meet the applicable requirements for that occu- pancy. Buildings would include, but not be limited to:

Concession Stand

Press Box

Restroom Facilities

Shade Structure

Snack Bar Storage Building Ticket Booth

903.2.21 Required exterior entrance covers. An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided throughout covered exterior entrances required by California Building Code Section 11B-206.4.10 or Section 1224.33.2.1.

Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections 903.3.1 through 903.3.8.

903.3.1 Standards. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, unless otherwise permitted by Sections 903.3.1.2 and 903.3.1.3 and other chapters of this code, as applicable.

903.3.1.1 NFPA 13 sprinkler systems. Where the provisions of this code require that a building or portion thereof be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with this section, sprinklers shall be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13 as amended in Chapter 80 except as provided in Sections 903.3.1.1.1 through 903.3.1.1.3.

903.3.1.1.1 Exempt locations. Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following rooms or areas where such rooms or areas are protected with an approved automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 that will respond to visible or invisible particles of combustion. Sprinklers shall not be omitted from a room merely because it is damp, of fireresistance-rated construction or contains electrical equipment.

1. A room or space where sprinklers constitute a serious life or fire hazard as determined by the authority having jurisdiction. 2. Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms, control spaces and hoistways associated with f ire service access elevator s in accordance with Section 3007.

3. Machine rooms, machinery spaces, control rooms and control spaces and hoistways associated with occupant evacuation elevators designed in accordance with Section 3008 of the California Building Code . 4. Spaces or areas in telecommunications buildings used exclusively for telecommunications equipment, and associ- ated electrical power distribution equipment, provided those spaces or areas are equipped throughout with an automatic smoke detection system in accordance with Section 907.2 and are separated from the remainder of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 of the California Building Code or not less than 2-hour horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 712 of the California Build- ing Code, or both.

903.3.1.1.2 Bathrooms. In Group R occupancies, sprinklers shall not be required in bathrooms that do not exceed 55 square feet (5 m [2] ) in area and are located within individual dwelling units or sleeping units, provided that walls and ceilings, including the walls and ceilings behind a shower enclosure or tub, are of noncombustible or limited-combustible materials with a 15-minute thermal barrier rating.

Bathrooms.** In Group R occupancies, sprinklers shall not be required in bathrooms that do not exceed 55 square feet (5 m [2] ) in area and are located within individual dwelling units or sleeping units, provided that walls and ceilings, including the walls and ceilings behind a shower enclosure or tub, are of noncombustible or limited-combustible materials with a 15-minute thermal barrier rating.

903.3.1.1.3 Lithium-Ion or lithium metal batteries. Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this code for areas containing lithium-ion or lithium metal batteries, the design of the system shall be based on a series of fire tests. Such tests shall be conducted or witnessed and reported by an approved testing laboratory involving test scenarios that address the range of variables associated with the intended arrangement of the hazards to be protected.

903.3.1.1.4 Solar photovoltaic power systems. Automatic sprinklers shall not be required in the following areas: 1. Solar photovoltaic panel structures with no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath, including storage. 2. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and unobstructed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as determined by the enforcing agency.

903.3.1.2 NFPA 13R sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R occupancies shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R as amended in Chapter 80 where the Group R occupancy meets all of the following conditions:

1. Four stories or less above grade plane.
2. For other than Group R-2 occupancies, the floor level of the highest story is 30 feet (9144 mm) or less above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

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For Group R-2 occupancies, the roof assembly is less than 45 feet (13 716 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. The height of the roof assembly shall be determined by measuring the distance from the lowest required fire vehicle access road surface adjacent to the building to the eave of the highest pitched roof, the intersection of the highest roof to the exterior wall, or the top of the highest parapet, whichever yields the greatest distance. 3. The floor level of the lowest story is 30 feet (9144 mm) or less below the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

The number of stories of Group R occupancies constructed in accordance with Sections 510.2 and 510.4 of the California Building Code shall be measured from grade plane.

903.3.1.2.1 Balconies and decks. Sprinkler protection shall be provided for exterior balconies, decks and ground floor patios of dwelling units and sleeping units where either of the following conditions exists:

1. The building is of Type V construction, provided that there is a roof or deck above.
2. Exterior balconies, decks and ground floor patios of dwelling units and sleeping units are constructed in accordance with Section 705.2.3.1, Exception 3 of the California Building Code .

Sidewall sprinklers that are used to protect such areas shall be permitted to be located such that their deflectors are within 1 inch (25 mm) to 6 inches (152 mm) below the structural members and a maximum distance of 14 inches (356 mm) below the deck of the exterior balconies and decks that are constructed of open wood joist construction.

903.3.1.2.2 Corridors and balconies in the means of egress. Sprinkler protection shall be provided in corridors and for balconies in the means of egress where any of the following conditions apply:

1. Corridors with combustible floor or walls.

2. Corridors with an interior change of direction exceeding 45 degrees (0.79 rad).

3. Corridors that are less than 50 percent open to the outside atmosphere at the ends.

4. Open-ended corridors and associated exterior stairways and ramps as specified in Section 1027.6, Exception 3.

5. Egress balconies not complying with Sections 1021.2 and 1021.3.

903.3.1.2.3 Attics. Attic protection shall be provided as follows:

1. Attics that are used or intended for living purposes or storage shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
2. Where fuel-fired equipment is installed in an unsprinklered attic, not fewer than one quick-response intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment.
3. Where located in a building of Type III, Type IV or Type V construction designed in accordance with Section 510.2 or 510.4 of the California Building Code, attics not required by Item 1 to have sprinklers shall comply with one of the following if the roof assembly is located more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access needed to meet the provisions in Section 503: 3.1. Provide automatic sprinkler system protection. 3.2. Construct the attic using noncombustible materials. 3.3. Construct the attic using fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2 of the California Building Code .

3.4. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.

The height of the roof assembly shall be determined by measuring the distance from the lowest required fire vehicle access road surface adjacent to the building to the eave of the highest pitched roof, the intersection of the highest roof to the exterior wall, or the top of the highest parapet, whichever yields the greatest distance. For the purpose of this measurement, required fire vehicle access roads shall include only those roads that are necessary for compliance with Section 503. 4. Group R-4, Condition 2 occupancy attics not required by Item 1 to have sprinklers shall comply with one of the following: 4.1. Provide automatic sprinkler system protection. 4.2. Provide a heat detection system throughout the attic that is arranged to activate the building fire alarm system. 4.3. Construct the attic using noncombustible materials. 4.4. Construct the attic using fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2 of the California Building Code .

4.5. Fill the attic with noncombustible insulation.

903.3.1.3 NFPA 13D sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family dwellings; Group R-3; Group R-4, Condition 1; and townhouses shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13D as amended in Chapter 80.

903.3.2 Quick-response and residential sprinklers. Where automatic sprinkler systems are required by this code, quickresponse or residential automatic sprinklers shall be installed in all of the following areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1 and their listings:

1. Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing care recipient sleeping units in Group I-2 in accordance with the California Building Code .

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2. Reserved.

3. Throughout all spaces within a smoke compartment containing treatment rooms in ambulatory care facilities.

4. Dwelling units and sleeping units in Group I-1 and R occupancies.

5. Light-hazard occupancies as defined in NFPA 13.

903.3.3 Obstructed locations. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed with regard to obstructions that will delay activation or obstruct the water distribution pattern and shall be in accordance with the applicable automatic sprinkler system standard that is being used. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed in or under covered kiosks, displays, booths, concession stands or equipment that exceeds 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Not less than a 3-foot (914 mm) clearance shall be maintained between automatic sprinklers and the top of piles of combustible fibers.

Exception: Kitchen equipment under exhaust hoods protected with a fire-extinguishing system in accordance with Section 904.

903.3.4 Actuation. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be automatically actuated unless specifically provided for in this code.

903.3.5 Water supplies. Water supplies for automatic sprinkler systems shall comply with this section and the standards referenced in Section 903.3.1. The potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in accordance with Health and Safety Code 13114.7 . For connections to public waterworks systems, the water supply test used for design of fire protection systems shall be adjusted to account for seasonal and daily pressure fluctuations based on information from the water supply authority and as approved by the fire code official.

903.3.5.1 Domestic services. Where the domestic service provides the water supply for the automatic sprinkler system, the supply shall be in accordance with this section.

903.3.5.2 Residential combination services. A single combination water supply shall be allowed provided that the domestic demand is added to the sprinkler demand as required by NFPA 13R.

903.3.6 Hose threads. Fire hose threads and fittings used in connection with automatic sprinkler systems shall be as prescribed by the fire code official.

903.3.7 Fire department connections. Fire department connections for automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in accordance with Section 912.

903.3.8 Limited area sprinkler systems. Limited area sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with the standards listed in Section 903.3.1 except as provided in Sections 903.3.8.1 through 903.3.8.5.

903.3.8.1 Number of sprinklers. Limited area sprinkler systems shall not exceed six sprinklers in any single fire area.

903.3.8.2 Occupancy hazard classification. Only areas classified by NFPA 13 as Light Hazard or Ordinary Hazard Group 1 shall be permitted to be protected by limited area sprinkler systems.

903.3.8.3 Piping arrangement. Where a limited area sprinkler system is installed in a building with an automatic wet standpipe system, sprinklers shall be supplied by the standpipe system. Where a limited area sprinkler system is installed in a building without an automatic wet standpipe system, water shall be permitted to be supplied by the plumbing system provided that the plumbing system is capable of simultaneously supplying domestic and sprinkler demands.

903.3.8.4 Supervision. Control valves shall not be installed between the water supply and sprinklers unless the valves are of an approved indicating type that are supervised or secured in the open position.

903.3.8.5 Calculations. Hydraulic calculations in accordance with NFPA 13 shall be provided to demonstrate that the available water flow and pressure are adequate to supply all sprinklers installed in any single fire area with discharge densities corresponding to the hazard classification.

903.3.9 High-rise building floor control valves. Approved supervised indicating control valves shall be provided at the point of connection to the riser on each floor in high-rise buildings and Group I-2 occupancies having occupied floors located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

903.3.10 Floor control valves. Floor control valves and waterflow detection assemblies shall be installed at each floor where any of the following occur: 1. Buildings where the floor level of the highest story is located more than 30 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

2. Buildings that are four or more stories in height. 3. Buildings that are two or more stories below the highest level of fire department vehicle access.

Exception: Group R-3 and R-3.1 occupancies floor control valves and waterflow detection assemblies shall not be required.

Automatic sprinkler system supervision and alarms shall comply with Sections 903.4.1 through 903.4.3.

903.4.1 Electronic supervision. Valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems, pumps, tanks, water levels and temperatures, critical air pressures and waterflow switches on all automatic sprinkler systems shall be electrically supervised by a listed fire alarm control unit.

Exceptions:

1. Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.

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2. Limited area sprinkler systems in accordance with Section 903.3.8, provided that backflow prevention device test valves located in limited area sprinkler system supply piping shall be locked in the open position unless supplying an occupancy required to be equipped with a fire alarm system, in which case the backflow preventer valves shall be electrically supervised by a tamper switch installed in accordance with NFPA 72 and separately annunciated.
3. Automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with NFPA 13R where a common supply main is used to supply both domestic water and the automatic sprinkler system, and a separate shutoff valve for the automatic sprinkler system is not provided.
4. Jockey pump control valves that are sealed or locked in the open position.
5. Control valves to commercial kitchen hoods, paint spray booths or dip tanks that are sealed or locked in the open position.
6. Valves controlling the fuel supply to fire pump engines that are sealed or locked in the open position.
7. Trim valves to pressure switches in dry, preaction and deluge sprinkler systems that are sealed or locked in the open position.
8. Underground key or hub gate valves in roadway boxes.

903.4.2 Monitoring. Alarm, supervisory and trouble signals shall be distinctly different and shall be automatically transmitted to an approved supervising station or, where approved by the fire code official, shall sound an audible signal at a constantly attended location.

903.4.3 Alarms. An approved audible and visual sprinkler waterflow alarm device, located on the exterior of the building in an approved location, shall be connected to each automatic sprinkler system. Such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be activated by water flow equivalent to the flow of a single sprinkler of the smallest orifice size installed in the system. Where a waterflow switch is required by Section 903.4.1 to be electrically supervised, such sprinkler waterflow alarm devices shall be powered by a fire alarm control unit or, where provided, a fire alarm system. Where a fire alarm system is provided, actuation of the automatic sprinkler system shall actuate the building fire alarm system.

Exception: Automatic sprinkler systems protecting one- and two-family dwellings.

Automatic sprinkler systems shall be inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with Section 901.

An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in existing buildings and structures where required in Chapter 11.