R102 Applicability — 2025 California Residential Code

Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.

The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.

References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.

The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2.

Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance, the conditions of the listing and manufacturer’s instructions shall apply.

R102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.

R102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.

In the event any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.

DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the International Property Maintenance Code or the California Fire Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

R102.6.1 Additions, alterations, change of use or repairs. Additions, alterations or repairs to any structure shall conform to the requirements for a new structure without requiring the existing structure to comply with the requirements of this code, unless otherwise stated. Additions, alterations, repairs and relocations shall not cause an existing structure to become less compliant with the provisions of this code than the existing building or structure was prior to the addition, alteration or repair. Where additions, alterations or changes of use to an existing structure result in a use, occupancy, height or means of egress outside the scope of this code, the building shall comply with the California Existing Building Code .

The provisions of Part 7, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and struc- tures built in the wildland-urban interface (WUI).

PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT