San Diego Standard C-1 at a glance
| Code basis | 2025 California Fire Code, NFPA 1225 (2022), FCC 47 CFR 90.219 |
|---|---|
| Applies to | New high-rises; low-rises 3+ stories, over 20,000 sq ft, or with a basement over 2,500 sq ft (R-3 exempt) |
| Signal / quality | −95 dBm inbound with DAQ 3.4; downlink SINR ≥ 20 dB; BER ≤ 2% |
| Coverage | 95% of all areas, 99% of critical areas, each floor |
| Secondary power | 12 hours at 100% (battery, or 2-hr battery + generator) |
| Backbone rating | 2-hour, 1-hour, or none depending on construction and height |
| Donor antenna | Beamwidth ≤ 30°, front-to-back ≥ 27 dB |
| Testing | 20-grid acceptance test by an unrelated third party (GROL + NICET IB-PSC Level II); annual testing; semiannual visual inspections |
Source: San Diego Fire-Rescue Standard C-1.1
How we help in San Diego
Designs built to Standard C-1 from the start — donor antenna, backbone ratings, and test plan included — plus acceptance report support. Design-to-install is available through licensed partners.
Frequently asked questions
Does San Diego require third-party acceptance testing?
Yes. Standard C-1 requires acceptance testing by a third party not employed by or related to the installing contractor.
What DAQ does San Diego require?
DAQ 3.4, higher than the statewide CFC baseline of 3.0.
References
- San Diego Fire-Rescue Standard C-1 — Emergency Responder Communication Enhancement Systems. sandiego.gov
- 2025 California Fire Code, Section 510. gocodebook.com
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.