11/03/2026
Putting a gate across your driveway? In Contra Costa County the fire district has a say, because many driveways count as fire access roads.
What the local districts ask for, from their published standards:
1. Approval before the gate goes in. San Ramon Valley Fire and Moraga-Orinda Fire both review plans first, and ConFire reviews access gates through its land development process.
2. A UL 325 listed operator on electric gates.
3. A way for fire crews to open it. San Ramon Valley Fire requires a Knox key switch when the farthest part of a building is more than 150 ft past the gate. Moraga-Orinda Fire requires one on any electronic gate that blocks access.
San Ramon Valley Fire also asks that electric operators keep working in a power failure and that swing gates open inward, away from the street. Widths and setbacks differ by district, so check before you build.
Our guide covers each district, with links to their standards:
https://contracostagates.com/fire-department-access-driveway-gates-contra-costa/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=w2_fire_access
Planning a gate? Free estimates: (925) 954-9696
