What decides it
Under the California Fire Code, a system is required in new buildings unless an exception applies — and most fire departments make the call based on whether public safety radios meet the coverage standard inside the finished building.1 In other words: the building either passes the radio test, or it needs a system.
Factors that predict a failed coverage test
- Below-grade space: basements and parking levels almost always need help. Several AHJs flag any below-grade level for review.2,3
- Construction materials: concrete, steel deck, metal panel, and low-E glass all attenuate signal heavily.
- Size and height: large floor plates and taller buildings have interior areas far from any window.
- Distance to the public safety site: weak outdoor signal at the property leaves no margin indoors.
- Stairwells and elevator lobbies: these are critical areas requiring 99% coverage, and they’re often enclosed in concrete.1
When to evaluate
Evaluate twice: a feasibility assessment during design (based on drawings, construction type, and the outdoor public safety signal) so a system can be budgeted, and a coverage test once the building envelope is closed. If a system is needed, pathways like riser space and rated enclosures are far cheaper to plan before walls close.
ERRCS vs. cellular DAS
| ERRCS / public safety DAS | Cellular DAS | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | First responder radio coverage | Cell phone coverage for occupants |
| Required by code? | Yes, fire code (CFC/IFC 510) | No — driven by tenants and owners |
| Who approves | Fire code official + frequency licensee | Wireless carriers |
| Typical bands | 700/800 MHz public safety (plus VHF/UHF in some areas) | Commercial LTE/5G bands |
| Survivability & backup power | Required (12+ hours) | Not required |
The two can sometimes share infrastructure, but the public safety system must still meet its own fire code requirements.
What a feasibility assessment gives you
- A go/no-go estimate on whether the building will need a system.
- Likely system type and size, and a budget range for the GC and owner.
- The AHJ’s local requirements summarized for your project.
- Pathway and space needs to coordinate with the architect.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wait until the building is finished to find out?
You can, but if the coverage test fails, design, permitting, licensee approval, installation, and acceptance testing all have to happen before the certificate of occupancy. Evaluating during design avoids that delay.
Is a BDA the same as a cell signal booster?
No. A public safety BDA amplifies first responder radio frequencies and must meet fire code requirements. Cellular boosters and cellular DAS serve phones and are approved by carriers, not the fire department.
How much does an ERRCS cost?
It depends on building size, construction, and local requirements. A feasibility assessment during design gives a budget range for your specific building.
References
- 2025 California Fire Code, Section 510. gocodebook.com
- City of Burbank Fire Department — ERRCS Regulations (effective Sept. 1, 2025). www.burbankca.gov
- San Diego Fire-Rescue Standard C-1 — Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems. sandiego.gov
General information, not a substitute for your AHJ’s current requirements or a project-specific design. Local standards change; confirm with the fire code official.