Chapter 2 — DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Adopting agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	HCD			DSA			OSHPD						BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	1	2	1-AC	AC	SS	SS/CC	1	1R	2	3	4	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Adopt entire chapter			X
Adopt entire chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections that are listed below								S	A	M	P	L	E
Chapter/Section

Adopt the entire IRC chapter as amended, state-amended sections are listed below:

If there is an “X” under a particular state agency’s acronym on this row, it means that particular state agency has adopted the entire model code chapter; with state amendments.

Each state-amended section that the agency has added to that particular chapter is listed. There will be an “X” in the column, by that particular section, under the agency’s acronym, as well as an “X” by each section that the agency has adopted.

Example:

CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Copyright © 2022 by, or licensed to, International Code Council, Inc. (ALL RIGHTS RESERVED); licensed to California Building Standards Commission pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions is authorized. Any unauthorized reproduction or distribution is a violation of the federal copyright act and the license agreement, and subject to civil and criminal penalties thereunder.

Adopt only those sections that are listed below:

If there is an “X” under a particular state agency’s acronym on this row, it means that particular state agency is adopting only specific model code or state-amended sections within this chapter. There will be an “X” in the column under the agency’s acronym, as well as an “X” by each section that the agency has adopted.

Example:

CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Adopting agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	HCD			DSA			OSHPD						BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
Adopting agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	1	2	1-AC	AC	SS	SS/CC	1	1R	2	3	4	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
Adopt entire chapter
Adopt entire chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)
Adopt only those sections that are listed below					X	X		S	A	M	P	L	E
Chapter 1
202					X	X		S	A	M	P	L	E
202					X	X			C	O	N	T.
203					X	X
203					X	X

viii 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Marginal Markings

Symbols in the margin indicate the status of code changes as follows:

This symbol indicates that a change has been made to a California amendment.

This symbol indicates deletion of California amendment language.

This symbol indicates that a change has been made to International Code Council model language.

This symbol indicates deletion of International Code Council model language.

2021 LOCATION	2018 LOCATION
Table N1102.1.2	Table N1102.1.4
Table N1102.1.3	Table N1102.1.2
N1103.3.2	N1103.3.7
N1103.3.3	N1103.3.6
N1103.3.3.1	N1103.3.6.1
N1103.3.4	N1103.3.2
N1103.3.4.1	N1103.3.2.1
N1103.3.5	N1103.3.3
N1103.3.6	N1103.3.4
N1103.3.7	N1103.3.5
N1107.2	N1101.13.1

Maintenance

A single asterisk [*] placed in the margin indicates that text or a table has been relocated within the code. A double asterisk [**] placed in the margin indicates that the text or table immediately following it has been relocated there from elsewhere in the code. The following table indicates such relocations in the 2021 edition of the International Residential Code .

RELOCATIONS

The IRC is kept up to date through the review of proposed changes submitted by code enforcement officials, industry representatives, design professionals and other interested parties. Proposed changes are carefully considered through an open code development process in which all interested and affected parties may participate.

The ICC Code Development Process reflects principles of openness, transparency, balance, due process and consensus, the principles embodied in OMB Circular A-119, which governs the federal government’s use of private-sector standards. The ICC process is open to anyone; there is no cost to participate, and people can participate without travel cost through the ICC’s cloud-based app, cdpAccess®. A broad cross section of interests are represented in the ICC Code Development Process. The codes, which are updated regularly, include safeguards that allow for emergency action when required for health and safety reasons.

In order to ensure that organizations with a direct and material interest in the codes have a voice in the process, the ICC has developed partnerships with key industry segments that support the ICC’s important public safety mission. Some code development committee members were nominated by the following industry partners and approved by the ICC Board:

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
National Council of Structural Engineers Association (NCSEA) The code development committees evaluate and make recommendations regarding proposed changes to the codes. Their recommendations are then subject to public comment and council-wide votes. The ICC’s governmental members—public safety officials who have no financial or business interest in the outcome—cast the final votes on proposed changes.

The contents of this work are subject to change through the code development cycles and by any governmental entity that enacts the code into law. For more information regarding the code development process, contact the Codes and Standards Development Department of the ICC.

The maintenance process for the fuel gas provisions is based on the process used to maintain the IFGC, in conjunction with the AGA. The maintenance process for the electrical provisions is undertaken by the NFPA.

While the I-Code development procedure is thorough and comprehensive, the ICC, its members and those participating in the development of the codes disclaim any liability resulting from the publication or use of the I-Codes, or from compliance or noncompliance with their provisions. The ICC does not have the power or authority to police or enforce compliance with the contents of this code.

Code Development Committee Responsibilities (Letter Designations in Front of Section Numbers)

In each code development cycle, proposed changes to this code are considered at the Committee Action Hearings by the applicable International Code Development Committee as follows:

[RB] = IRC—Building Code Development Committee

[RE] = International Residential Energy Conservation Code Development Committee;

[MP] = IRC—Mechanical/Plumbing Code Development Committee The [RE] committee is also responsible for the IECC—Residential Provisions. For the development of the 2024 edition of the I-Codes, there will be two groups of code development committees and they will meet in separate years, as shown in the following Code Development Hearings Table.

Code change proposals submitted for IRC Chapters 1 and 3 through 10, Appendices AE, AF, AH, AJ, AK, AL, AM, AN, AO, AQ, AR, AS, AT, AU, AV and AW, and definitions designated [RB] are heard by the IRC— Building Committee during the Group B (2022) cycle code development hearing. Code change proposals submitted for Chapter 11 are heard by the International Energy Conservation Code Development Committee during the Group B (2022) cycle code development hearing. Proposed changes to all other chapters are heard by the IRC Plumbing and Mechanical Committee during the Group A (2021) code development cycle.

lding Committee during the Group B (2022) cycle code development hearing. Code change proposals submitted for Chapter 11 are heard by the International Energy Conservation Code Development Committee during the Group B (2022) cycle code development hearing. Proposed changes to all other chapters are heard by the IRC Plumbing and Mechanical Committee during the Group A (2021) code development cycle.

It is very important that anyone submitting code change proposals understand which code development committee is responsible for the section of the code that is the subject of the code change proposal. For further information on the code development committee responsibilities, please visit the ICC website at www.iccsafe.org/current-code-development-cycle.

Group A Codes (Heard in 2021, Code Change Proposals Deadline: January 11, 2021)	Group B Codes (Heard in 2022, Code Change Proposals Deadline: January 10, 2022)
International Building Code – Egress (Chapters 10, 11, Appendix E) – Fire Safety (Chapters 7, 8, 9, 14, 26) – General (Chapters 2–6, 12, 27–33, Appendices A, B, C, D, K, N)	Administrative Provisions (Chapter 1 of all codes except IECC, IRC and IgCC; IBC Appendix O; the appendices titled “Board of Appeals” for all codes except IECC, IRC, IgCC, ICCPC and IZC; administra- tive updates to currently referenced standards; and designated definitions)
International Fire Code	International Building Code – Structural (Chapters 15–25, Appendices F, G, H, I, J, L, M)
International Fuel Gas Code	International Existing Building Code
International Mechanical Code	International Energy Conservation Code— Commercial
International Plumbing Code	International Energy Conservation Code— Residential – IECC—Residential – IRC—Energy (Chapter 11)
International Property Maintenance Code	International Green Construction Code (Chapter 1)
International Private Sewage Disposal Code	International Residential Code – IRC—Building (Chapters 1–10, AppendicesAE, AF, AH, AJ, AK, AL, AM, AO, AQ, AR, AS, AT, AU, AV, AW)
International Residential Code – IRC—Mechanical (Chapters 12–23) – IRC—Plumbing (Chapters 25–33, Appendices AG, AI, AN, AP)
International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
International Wildland-Urban Interface Code
International Zoning Code

Note: Proposed changes to the ICCPC will be heard by the code development committee noted in brackets [ ] in the text of the ICCPC.

x 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Effective Use of the International Residential Code

The IRC was created to serve as a complete, comprehensive code regulating the construction of single-family houses, two-family houses (duplexes) and buildings consisting of three or more townhouse units. All buildings within the scope of the IRC are limited to three stories above grade plane. For example, a four-story single-family house would fall within the scope of the IBC, not the IRC. The benefits of devoting a separate code to residential construction include the fact that the user need not navigate through a multitude of code provisions that do not apply to residential construction in order to locate that which is applicable. A separate code also allows for residential and nonresidential code provisions to be distinct and tailored to the structures that fall within the appropriate code’s scopes.

The IRC contains coverage for all components of a house or townhouse, including structural components, fireplaces and chimneys, thermal insulation, mechanical systems, fuel gas systems, plumbing systems and electrical systems.

The IRC is a prescriptive-oriented (specification) code with some examples of performance code language. It has been said that the IRC is the complete cookbook for residential construction. Section R301.1, for example, is written in performance language, but states that the prescriptive requirements of the code will achieve such performance.

It is important to understand that the IRC contains coverage for what is conventional and common in residential construction practice. While the IRC will provide all of the needed coverage for most residential construction, it might not address construction practices and systems that are atypical or rarely encountered in the industry. Sections such as R301.1.3, R301.2.2.1.1, R320.1, M1301.1, G2401.1 and P2601.1 refer to other codes either as an alternative to the provisions of the IRC or where the IRC lacks coverage for a particular type of structure, design, system, appliance or method of construction. In other words, the IRC is meant to be all inclusive for typical residential construction and it relies on other codes only where alternatives are desired or where the code lacks coverage for the uncommon aspect of residential construction. Of course, the IRC constantly evolves to address new technologies and construction practices that were once uncommon, but are now common.

The IRC is unique in that much of it, including Chapters 3 through 9 and Chapters 34 through 43, is presented in an ordered format that is consistent with the normal progression of construction, starting with the design phase and continuing through the final trim-out phase. This is consistent with the “cookbook” philosophy of the IRC.

xii 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2021 IRC

The IRC is divided into nine main parts, specifically: Part I—Administrative, Part II—Definitions, Part III—Building Planning and Construction, Part IV—Energy Conservation, Part V—Mechanical, Part VI—Fuel Gas, Part VII—Plumbing, Part VIII—Electrical and Part IX—Referenced Standards.

The following provides a brief description of the content of each chapter and appendix of the IRC:

Chapter 1 Scope and Administration

This chapter contains provisions for the application, enforcement and administration of subsequent requirements of the code. In addition to establishing the scope of the code, Chapter 1 identifies which buildings and structures come under its purview. Chapter 1 is largely concerned with maintaining “due process of law” in enforcing the building criteria contained in the body of the code. Only through careful observation of the administrative provisions can the building official reasonably expect to demonstrate that “equal protection under the law” has been provided.

Chapter 2 Definitions

Terms defined in the code are listed alphabetically in Chapter 2. It is important to note that three chapters have their own definitions sections: Chapter 11 for the defined terms unique to energy conservation, Chapter 24 for the defined terms unique to fuel gas and Chapter 35 for the terms applicable to electrical Chapters 34 through 43. Where Chapter 24 or 35 defines a term differently than it is defined in Chapter 2, the definition applies in that chapter only. Chapter 2 definitions apply in all other locations in the code.

Where understanding a term’s definition is key to or necessary for understanding a particular code provision, the term is shown in italics where it appears in the code. This is true only for those terms that have a meaning that is unique to the code. In other words, the generally understood meaning of a term or phrase might not be sufficient or consistent with the meaning prescribed by the code; therefore, it is essential that the code-defined meaning be known.

Guidance regarding not only tense, gender and plurality of defined terms, but also terms not defined in this code, is provided.

Chapter 3 Building Planning

Chapter 3 provides guidelines for a minimum level of structural integrity, life safety, fire safety and livability for inhabitants of dwelling units regulated by this code. Chapter 3 is a compilation of the code requirements specific to the building planning sector of the design and construction process. This chapter sets forth code requirements dealing with light, ventilation, sanitation, minimum room size, ceiling height and environmental comfort. Chapter 3 establishes life-safety provisions including limitations on glazing used in hazardous areas, specifications on stairways, use of guards at elevated surfaces, window and fall protection, and rules for means of egress. Snow, wind and seismic design live and dead loads and flood-resistant construction, as well as solar energy systems, and swimming pools, spas and hot tubs, are addressed in this chapter.

Chapter 4 Foundations

Chapter 4 provides the requirements for the design and construction of foundation systems for buildings regulated by this code. Provisions for seismic load, flood load and frost protection are contained in this chapter. A foundation system consists of two interdependent components: the foundation structure itself and the supporting soil.

Chapter 5 Floors

The prescriptive provisions of this chapter provide requirements for constructing footings and walls for foundations of wood, masonry, concrete and precast concrete. In addition to a foundation’s ability to support the required design loads, this chapter addresses several other factors that can affect foundation performance. These include controlling surface water and subsurface drainage, requiring soil tests where conditions warrant and evaluating proximity to slopes and minimum depth requirements. The chapter also provides requirements to minimize adverse effects of moisture, decay and pests in basements and crawl spaces.

Chapter 5 provides the requirements for the design and construction of floor systems that will be capable of supporting minimum required design loads. This chapter covers four different types: wood floor framing, wood floors on the ground, cold-formed steel floor framing and concrete slabs on the ground. Allowable span tables are provided that greatly simplify the determination of joist, girder and sheathing sizes for raised floor systems of wood framing and cold-formed steel framing. This chapter also contains prescriptive requirements for wood-framed exterior decks and their attachment to the main building.

Chapter 6 Wall Construction

Chapter 6 contains provisions that regulate the design and construction of walls. The wall construction covered in Chapter 6 consists of five different types: wood framed, cold-formed steel framed, masonry, concrete and structural insulated panel (SIP). The primary concern of this chapter is the structural integrity of wall construction and transfer of all imposed loads to the supporting structure. This chapter provides the requirements for the design and construction of wall systems that are capable of supporting the minimum design vertical loads (dead, live and snow loads) and lateral loads (wind or seismic loads). This chapter contains the prescriptive requirements for wall bracing and/or shear walls to resist the imposed lateral loads due to wind and seismic activity.

Chapter 6 also regulates exterior windows and doors installed in walls. This chapter contains criteria for the performance of exterior windows and doors and includes provisions for testing and labeling, garage doors, windborne debris protection and anchorage details.

Chapter 7 Wall Covering

Chapter 7 contains provisions for the design and construction of interior and exterior wall coverings. This chapter establishes the various types of materials, materials standards and methods of application permitted for use as interior coverings, including interior plaster, gypsum board, ceramic tile, wood veneer paneling, hardboard paneling, wood shakes and wood shingles. Chapter 7 also contains requirements for the use of vapor retarders for moisture control in walls.

Exterior wall coverings provide the weather-resistant exterior envelope that protects the building’s interior from the elements. Chapter 7 provides the requirements for wind resistance and water-resistive barrier for exterior wall coverings. This chapter prescribes the exterior wall coverings as well as the water-resistive barrier required beneath the exterior materials. Exterior wall coverings regulated by this section include aluminum, stone and masonry veneer, wood, hardboard, particleboard, wood structural panel siding, wood shakes and shingles, exterior plaster, steel, vinyl, fiber cement and exterior insulation finish systems.

Chapter 8 Roof-ceiling Construction

Chapter 8 regulates the design and construction of roof-ceiling systems. This chapter contains two roof-ceiling framing systems: wood framing and cold-formed steel framing. Allowable span tables are provided to simplify the selection of rafter and ceiling joist size for wood roof framing and coldformed steel framing. Chapter 8 also provides requirements for the application of ceiling finishes, the proper ventilation of concealed spaces in roofs (e.g., enclosed attics and rafter spaces), unvented attic assemblies and attic access.

xiv 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Chapter 9 Roof Assemblies

Chapter 9 regulates the design and construction of roof assemblies. A roof assembly includes the roof deck, vapor retarder, substrate or thermal barrier, insulation, vapor retarder and roof covering. This chapter provides the requirement for wind resistance of roof coverings.

The types of roof covering materials and installation regulated by Chapter 9 are: asphalt shingles, clay and concrete tile, metal roof shingles, mineral-surfaced roll roofing, slate and slate-type shingles, wood shakes and shingles, built-up roofs, metal roof panels, modified bitumen roofing, thermoset and thermoplastic single-ply roofing, sprayed polyurethane foam roofing, liquid applied coatings and photovoltaic shingles. Chapter 9 also provides requirements for roof drainage, flashing, above deck thermal insulation, rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems and recovering or replacing an existing roof covering.

Chapter 10 Chimneys and Fireplaces

Chapter 10 contains requirements for the safe construction of masonry chimneys and fireplaces and establishes the standards for the use and installation of factory-built chimneys, fireplaces and masonry heaters. Chimneys and fireplaces constructed of masonry rely on prescriptive requirements for the details of their construction; the factory-built type relies on the listing and labeling method of approval. Chapter 10 provides the requirements for seismic reinforcing and anchorage of masonry fireplaces and chimneys.

Chapter 11 [RE] Energy Efficiency

Chapter 11 is not adopted in California. See California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6.

Chapter 12 Mechanical Administration

Chapter 12 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 13 General Mechanical System Requirements

Chapter 13 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 14 Heating and Cooling Equipment and Appliances

Chapter 14 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 15 Exhaust Systems

Chapter 15 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 16 Duct Systems

Chapter 16 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 17 Combustion Air

Chapter 17 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 18 Chimneys and Vents

Chapter 18 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 19 Special Appliances, Equipment and Systems

Chapter 19 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 20 Boilers and Water Heaters

Chapter 20 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 21 Hydronic Piping

Chapter 21 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 22 Special Piping and Storage Systems

Chapter 22 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 23 Solar Thermal Energy Systems

Chapter 23 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.

Chapter 24 Fuel Gas

Chapter 24 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code and California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Parts 4 and 5.

Chapter 25 Plumbing Administration

Chapter 25 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 26 General Plumbing Requirements

Chapter 26 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

xvi 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures

Chapter 27 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 28 Water Heaters

Chapter 28 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution

Chapter 29 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 30 Sanitary Drainage

Chapter 30 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 31 Vents

Chapter 31 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 32 Traps

Chapter 32 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 33 Storm Drainage

Chapter 33 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

Chapter 34 General Requirements

Chapter 34 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 35 Electrical Definitions

Chapter 35 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 36 Services

Chapter 36 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 37 Branch Circuit and Feeder Requirements

Chapter 37 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 38 Wiring Methods

Chapter 38 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 39 Power and Lighting Distribution

Chapter 39 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 40 Devices and Luminaires

Chapter 40 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 41 Appliance Installation

Chapter 41 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 42 Swimming Pools

Chapter 42 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 43 Class 2 Remote-control, Signaling and Power-limited Circuits

Chapter 43 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.

Chapter 44 Referenced Standards

The code contains numerous references to standards that are used to regulate materials and methods of construction. Chapter 44 contains a comprehensive list of all standards that are referenced in the code. The standards are part of the code to the extent of the reference to the standard. Compliance with the referenced standard is necessary for compliance with this code. By providing specifically adopted standards, the construction and installation requirements necessary for compliance with the code can be readily determined. The basis for code compliance is, therefore, established and available on an equal basis to the code official, contractor, designer and owner.

Chapter 44 is organized in a manner that makes it easy to locate specific standards. It lists all of the referenced standards, alphabetically, by acronym of the promulgating agency of the standard. Each agency’s standards are then listed in either alphabetical or numeric order based upon the standard identification. The list also contains the title of the standard; the edition (date) of the standard referenced; any addenda included as part of the ICC adoption; and the section or sections of this code that reference the standard.

xviii 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Appendix AA Reserved

Appendix AB Reserved

Appendix AC Reserved

Appendix AD Reserved

Appendix AE Reserved

Appendix AF Radon Control Methods

Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) decay of the element radium in soil, rock and water and finds its way into the air. Appendix AF contains requirements to mitigate the transfer of radon gases from the soil into the dwelling. The provisions of this appendix regulate the design and construction of radon-resistant measures intended to reduce the entry of radon gases into the living space of residential buildings.

Appendix AG Reserved

Appendix AH Patio Covers

Appendix AH sets forth the regulations and limitations for patio covers. The provisions address those uses permitted in patio cover structures, the minimum design loads to be assigned for structural purposes, and the effect of the patio cover on egress and emergency escape or rescue from sleeping rooms. This appendix also contains the special provisions for aluminum screen enclosures in hurricane-prone regions.

Appendix AI Private Sewage Disposal

Appendix AI simply provides the opportunity to utilize the International Private Sewage Disposal Code for the design and installation of private sewage disposal in one- and two-family dwellings.

Appendix AJ Existing Buildings and Structures

Appendix AJ contains the provisions for the repair, renovation, alteration and reconstruction of existing buildings and structures that are within the scope of this code. To accomplish this objective and to make the rehabilitation process more available, this appendix allows for a controlled departure from full code compliance without compromising minimum life safety, fire safety, structural and environmental features of the rehabilitated existing building or structure.

Appendix AK Sound Transmission

Appendix AK regulates the sound transmission of wall and floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units and townhouse units. Airborne sound insulation is required for walls. Airborne sound insulation and impact sound insulation are required for floor-ceiling assemblies. The provisions in Appendix AK set forth a minimum Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating for common walls and floor-ceiling assemblies between dwelling units. In addition, a minimum Impact Insulation Class (IIC) rating is also established to limit structureborne sound through common floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units.

Appendix AL Permit Fees

Appendix AL provides guidance to jurisdictions for setting appropriate permit fees. This appendix will aid many jurisdictions to assess permit fees that will assist to fairly and properly administer the code. This appendix can be used for informational purposes only or may be adopted when specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.

Appendix AM Reserved

Appendix AN Reserved

Appendix AO Automatic Vehicular Gates

Appendix AO provides the requirements for the design and construction of automatic vehicular gates. The provisions are for where automatic gates are installed for use at a vehicular entrance or exit on the lot of a one- or two-family dwelling. The requirements provide protection for individuals from potential entrapment between an automatic gate and a stationary object or surface.

Appendix AP Reserved

Appendix AQ Tiny Houses

For dwelling units that are 400 square feet (37 m ² ) or less in floor area, excluding lofts, Appendix AQ provides relaxed provisions as compared to those in the body of the code. These provisions primarily address reduced ceiling heights for loft areas and specific stair and ladder detail requirements that allow for more compact designs where accessing lofts.

Appendix AR Light Straw-clay Construction

This appendix regulates the use of light straw-clay as a construction material. It is limited in application to nonbearing wall infill systems.

xx 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Appendix AS Strawbale Construction

This appendix provides prescriptive requirements for the use of strawbale as a construction material. It is limited in application to the walls of one-story structures, except where additional engineering is provided.

Appendix AT Solar-ready Provisions—Detached One- and Two-family Dwellings

and Townhouses

This appendix provides requirements for preparation of a house for future installation of solar equipment for electrical power or heating. Given the growing popularity of solar power and the possible need for the equipment in the future, this appendix, if adopted, would require an area be provided on the building roof that would accommodate solar equipment. In addition, pathways for routing of plumbing and conduit need to be provided.

Appendix AU Cob Construction (Monolithic Adobe)

This appendix provides prescriptive requirements for the use of natural cob (monolithic adobe) as a construction material. It is limited in application to the walls of one-story structures, except where additional engineering is provided.

Appendix AV Board of Appeals

This appendix provides criteria for Board of Appeals members and procedures by which the Board of Appeals should conduct its business.

Appendix AW 3D-printed Building Construction

Appendix AW provides for the design, construction and inspection of buildings, structures and building elements fabricated by 3D-printed construction techniques.

Appendix AX Swimming Pool Safety Act

Appendix AX provides the language of the Swimming Pool Safety Act for the code user’s convenience.

Appendix AY Areas Protected by the Facilities of the Central Valley Flood

Protection Plan

Appendix AY provides the provisions for areas protected by the facilities of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan.

Appendix AZ Emergency Housing

Appendix AZ provides the provisions for emergency housing and emergency housing facilities.

xxii 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Table of Contents¶

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I—Administrative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1	R105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
	R106 Construction Documents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND APPLICATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1	R107 Temporary Structures and Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23 R108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
*DIVISION I—CALIFORNIA* *ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3*	R109 Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23 R110 Certificate of Occupancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
Section	R111 Service Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
1.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3	R112 Board of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
1.2 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5	R113 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
1.3 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5	R114 Stop Work Order. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
1.4 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 1.5 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5	*Part II—Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1*
1.6 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 1.7 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 1.8 Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 1.8.2 Authority and Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5	CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1 Section R201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 R202 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
1.8.3 Local Enforcing Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7 1.8.4 Permits, Fees, Applications and Inspections . . . . . 1-7	*Part III—Building Planning and Construction. . . . . . . 3-1*
1.8.5 Right of Entry for Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8	CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
1.8.6 Local Modification by Ordinance or Regulation. . . 1-8	Section
1.8.7 Alternate Materials, Designs, Tests and Methods of Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9 1.8.8 Appeals Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9 1.8.9 Unsafe Buildings or Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10 1.8.10 Other Building Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 1.9 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 1.10 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11 1.12 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15 1.13 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15 1.14 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15	R300 Site Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 R301 Design Criteria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 R302 Fire-resistant Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36 R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-44 R304 Minimum Room Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46 R305 Ceiling Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46 R306 Sanitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46 R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46 R308 Glazing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-46 R309 Garages and Carports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-50 R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings . . . . 3-50
*DIVISION II—ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17* Section Part 1—Scope and Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17 R101 Scope and General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17 R102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17	R311 Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-52 R312 Guards and Window Fall Protection . . . . . . . . 3-56 R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems. . . . . . . . . . 3-56 R314 Smoke Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-70 R315 Carbon Monoxide Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-74 R316 Foam Plastic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-76
Part 2—Administration and Enforcement. . . . . . . . . 1-18	R317 Protection of Wood and Wood-based
R103 Department of Building Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18	Products against Decay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-78
R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official . . . 1-18	R318 Protection against Subterranean Termites . . . . 3-79

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R319 Site Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-80	CHAPTER 5 FLOORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
R320 Accessibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-80	Section
R321 Elevators and Platform Lifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-80	R501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
R322 Flood-resistant Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-82	R502 Wood Floor Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
R323 Storm Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-85	R503 Floor Sheathing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
R324 Solar Energy Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-86 R325 Mezzanines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-87	R504 Pressure Preservative-treated Wood Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R326 Habitable Attics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-88	R505 Cold-formed Steel Floor Framing. . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R327 Aging-in-Place Design and Fall Prevention . . . 3-88 R328 Energy Storage Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-89	R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27 R507 Exterior Decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-28
R329 Stationary Engine Generators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-92 R330 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems . . . . . . . . 3-92 R334 Construction Waste Reduction, Disposal and Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-92 R335 Special Provisions for Licensed 24-hour Care Facilities in a Group R-3.1 . . . . . . . . . 3-92	CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . 6-1 Section R601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 R602 Wood Wall Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 R603 Cold-formed Steel Wall Framing . . . . . . . . . . . 6-56
R336 Large Family Day-care Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-95	R604 Wood Structural Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-91
R337 Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Wildfire Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-96 R337.1 Scope, Purpose and Application . . . . . . . . . . . 3-96 R337.2 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-97	R605 Particleboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-91 R606 General Masonry Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-95 R607 Glass Unit Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-107 R608 Exterior Concrete Wall Construction . . . . . . . 6-109
R337.3 Standards of Quality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-98	R609 Exterior Windows and Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-180
R337.4 Ignition-resistant Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-99	R610 Structural Insulated Panel Wall
R337.5 Roofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-100	Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-184
R337.6 Vents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-100
R337.7 Exterior Covering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-100 R337.8 Exterior Windows, Skylights and Doors . . . . 3-103 R337.9 Decking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-104 R337.10 Accessory Buildings and Miscellaneous Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-105	CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1 Section R701 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 R702 Interior Covering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 R703 Exterior Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8
R338 Electric Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-106	R704 Soffits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-29
R340 Pollutant Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-106	CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING
CHAPTER 4 FOUNDATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1	CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Section	Section
R401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3	R801 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
R402 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4	R802 Wood Roof Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
R403 Footings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 R404 Foundation and Retaining Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23 R405 Foundation Drainage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-44 R406 Foundation Waterproofing and Dampproofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-45	R803 Roof Sheathing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-32 R804 Cold-formed Steel Roof Framing . . . . . . . . . . . 8-32 R805 Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-48 R806 Roof Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-48 R807 Attic Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-49
R407 Columns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-46
R408 Under-floor Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-47

xxiv 2022 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

CHAPTER 9 ROOF ASSEMBLIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Section

R901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

R902 Fire Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

R903 Weather Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

R904 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

R905 Requirements for Roof Coverings. . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4

R906 Roof Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-16

R907 Rooftop-mounted

Photovoltaic Panel Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17

R908 Reroofing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17

CHAPTER 10 CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

Section

R1001 Masonry Fireplaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3

R1002 Masonry Heaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

R1003 Masonry Chimneys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8

R1004 Factory-built Fireplaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

R1005 Factory-built Chimneys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12

R1006 Exterior Air Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13

Part IV—Energy Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Part V—Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

Part VI—Fuel Gas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-1

Part VII—Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-1

Part VIII—Electrical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-1

Part IX—Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-1

CHAPTER 44 REFERENCED STANDARDS . . . . 44-1

APPENDIX AA Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX AA-1

APPENDIX AB Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX AB-1

APPENDIX AC Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX AC-1

APPENDIX AD Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX AD-1

APPENDIX AE Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX AE-1

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