CBC · California Building Code
Where are definitions and referenced standards for accessibility?
The CBC tells you where to find accessibility definitions and standards: referenced standards are listed in Chapter 35, defined terms listed in § 11B-106.5 are given in Chapter 2 § 202, terms defined only in a referenced standard take that standard’s meaning, and any remaining undefined words use ordinary dictionary meanings (see §§ 11B-105.1 and 11B-106.1–.3).
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Building Code locates the accessibility-related referenced standards in Chapter 35 (see § 11B-105.1) and establishes a hierarchy for where to find definitions for terms used in Chapter 11B: terms listed in § 11B-106.5 are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202; terms not listed but defined in a referenced standard take the meaning given in that standard; and terms not found in either source are interpreted by ordinary collegiate dictionaries (see §§ 11B-105.1, 11B-106.1–.3). These rules also point to Chapter 2 for rules on interchangeability (see § 11B-106.4).
Requirements in detail
1) Where to find the referenced standards
- The CBC tells you where the accessibility referenced standards are listed: Chapter 35. When the code text refers to a "referenced standard" for an accessibility requirement, the list of those standards and where they are cited in the code is found in Chapter 35 (see § 11B-105.1).
2) How to determine which definition controls
The code establishes a clear hierarchy for definitions used in Chapter 11B:
- If the term appears in the list at § 11B-106.5, that term is defined in Chapter 2, Section 202 and you must use that Chapter 2 definition (§ 11B-106.1 and § 11B-106.5).
- If the term is NOT listed in § 11B-106.5 and NOT defined in Chapter 2 § 202, but the term is specifically defined in a referenced standard, then the definition in the referenced standard controls (§ 11B-106.2). To find the referenced standard, consult the list in Chapter 35 as directed by § 11B-105.1.
- If the term is neither in § 11B-106.5 / Chapter 2 § 202 nor in a referenced standard, the code directs you to ordinary collegiate-dictionary meanings as used in context (§ 11B-106.3).
- For questions about whether different terms can be used interchangeably, the code refers you back to the general interchangeability rules in Chapter 2 (§ 11B-106.4 referencing Chapter 2 § 201.2).
Quick decision table
| Decision dimension | When it applies | What source controls | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location of referenced standards | You need the specific standard citation (e.g., ANSI/ICC A117.1) | Chapter 35 lists the referenced standards used by CBC | § 11B-105.1 |
| Term appears in 11B-106.5 | Term is listed under § 11B-106.5 | Definition in Chapter 2, Section 202 | § 11B-106.1 / § 11B-106.5 |
| Term not listed in 11B-106.5 but in a referenced standard | Term is defined by a standard cited in Chapter 35 | Definition in the referenced standard (per the standard’s text) | § 11B-106.2 and § 11B-105.1 |
| Term not in code or referenced standard | No code or referenced-standard definition exists | Collegiate dictionary meaning (contextual) | § 11B-106.3 |
| Interchangeability of terms | When different words/phrases appear to be interchangeable | Chapter 2 (see rules on interchangeable terms) | § 11B-106.4 (see Chapter 2 § 201.2) |
Exceptions & special cases
- The basic hierarchy above governs unless a specific provision elsewhere in the code explicitly states otherwise for a particular term or section (§ 11B-106.2 implies “unless otherwise stated”). Always check the specific Chapter 11B section that triggers the requirement for any express definitional exception.
- Interchangeability and special definitional rules are handled by Chapter 2 (see § 11B-106.4), so where a special rule about term usage exists in Chapter 2 it controls that aspect.
Common mistakes
- Assuming every accessibility-related technical term is defined in Chapter 11B: many terms are defined in Chapter 2 § 202 and must be read there (see § 11B-106.1 / .5).
- Looking for referenced-standards bibliographic information in Chapter 16 or other chapters of companion codes instead of Chapter 35: Chapter 11B directs you specifically to Chapter 35 for the list of referenced standards (§ 11B-105.1).
- Using an industry or manufacturer glossary without confirming that the document is a code-referenced standard listed in Chapter 35; only referenced standards listed in the code carry the definitional authority cited in § 11B-106.2.
- Ignoring § 11B-106.3: when no code or referenced-standard definition exists, the code intentionally permits ordinary dictionary meaning — don’t invent a technical definition where none is provided.
Worked example — concrete scenario with steps and numbers
Scenario: You are designing a public restroom and the construction documents repeatedly use the term “CLEAR FLOOR SPACE” but do not provide a definition.
Step 1 — Is “CLEAR FLOOR SPACE” listed in § 11B-106.5?
- Check § 11B-106.5: the phrase “CLEAR FLOOR SPACE” appears in the list of defined terms and § 11B-106.1 tells you those listed terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202. Result: use the Chapter 2 definition. Reference: § 11B-106.1 and § 11B-106.5.
Step 2 — If the term were NOT in § 11B-106.5, check whether a referenced standard defines it.
- Consult Chapter 35 (per § 11B-105.1) to find the list of standards (for example, if a standard like ANSI/ICC A117.1 is listed there). If that referenced standard contains a specific definition of the term, use that definition per § 11B-106.2. (In this example, this step is unnecessary because the term was found in § 11B-106.5.)
Step 3 — If the term is absent from both Chapter 2 and any referenced standard, apply ordinary dictionary meaning as a last resort per § 11B-106.3.
Numeric check example (how a designer might apply it): the code lists “CLEAR FLOOR SPACE” in § 11B-106.5, so the designer goes to Chapter 2 § 202 and finds the precise dimensioned definition (e.g., 30 in. x 48 in. — NOTE: you must read Chapter 2 § 202 for the exact numeric dimensions). The CBC text requires using that Chapter 2 definition where § 11B-106.1 applies. The excerpt that tells you to use Chapter 2 is § 11B-106.1.
- Important: the exact numeric values (such as 30 in. x 48 in.) are part of the Chapter 2 definition and are not reproduced here; consult Chapter 2 § 202 to obtain the precise dimensions.
Related provisions
- § 11B-105.1 — Referenced standards location (Chapter 35).
- § 11B-106.1 — Terms listed in § 11B-106.5 are defined in Chapter 2 § 202.
- § 11B-106.2 — Terms defined in referenced standards take the meaning of the referenced standard (unless stated otherwise).
- § 11B-106.3 — Undefined terms use collegiate-dictionary meanings in context.
- § 11B-106.4 — Interchangeability; see Chapter 2 § 201.2 for rules.
- § 11B-104 — Conventions (how dimensions and figures are treated in the chapter).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 11B-3 High relevance — show source text
DIVISION 1 – APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . .11B-3
11B-101 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-102 Dimensions for Adults and Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-103 Equivalent Facilitation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-104 Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-105 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-4
11B-106 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-4
11B-107 Special Conditions Appeals Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-7
11B-108 Maintenance of Accessible Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-7
DIVISION 2 – SCOPING REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11B-8
11B-201 Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-8
11B-202 Existing Buildings and Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-8
11B-203 General Exceptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-10
11B-204 Protruding Objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-11
11B-205 Operable Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-11
11B-206 Accessible Routes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-12
11B-207 Accessible Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-16
11B-208 Parking Spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-16
CBC § 216.7 High relevance — show source text
11B- 216.7 Elevators. Where existing elevators do not comply with Section 11B- 407, elevators complying with Section 11B- 407 shall be clearly identified with the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1. Existing buildings that have been remodeled to provide specific elevators for public use that comply with these building standards shall have the location of and the direc- tions to these elevators posted in the building lobby on a sign complying with Section 11B-703.5, including the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1.
11B- 216.8 Toilet rooms and bathing rooms. Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply with Section 11B- 603, directional signs indicating the location of the nearest toilet room or bathing room complying with Section 11B- 603 within the facility shall be provided. Signs shall comply with Section 11B- 703.5 and shall include the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B -703.7.2.1. Where existing toilet rooms or bathing rooms do not comply with Section 11B- 603, the toilet rooms or bathing rooms complying with Section 11B- 603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1. Where clustered single user toilet rooms or bathing facilities are permitted to use exceptions to Section 11B -213.2, toilet rooms or bathing facilities complying with Section 11B- 603 shall be identified by the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B- 703.7.2.1 unless all toilet rooms and bathing facilities comply with Section 11B- 603 . Existing buildings
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that have been remodeled to provide specific toilet rooms or bathing rooms for public use that comply with these building standards shall have the location of and the directions to these rooms posted in or near the building lobby or entrance on a sign complying with Section 11B-703.5, including the International Symbol of Accessibility complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.1.
11B-216.8.1 Geometric symbols. Geometric symbols complying with Section 11B-703.7.2.6 shall be provided at entrances to toilet and bathing rooms.
Exceptions:
1. Geometric symbols shall not be required at entrances to toilet and bathing rooms located within private or semi-private rooms or spaces. Such spaces include but are not limited to: patient sleeping rooms, transient lodging guest rooms and residential dwelling units. 2. Geometric symbols shall not be required at entrances to inmate toilet rooms and bathing rooms in detention and correc- tional facilities where only one gender is housed.
CBC § 11A-45 Medium relevance — show source text
CONTENTS
1147A Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11A-45
1148A Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11A-45
1149A Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11A-45
DIVISION VI – SITE IMPRACTICALITY TESTS . . . . . . . . . . . .11A-46
1150A Site Impracticality Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11A-46
DIVISION VII – FIGURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11A-48
CHAPTER 11B ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11B-1
DIVISION 1 – APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . .11B-3
11B-101 Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-102 Dimensions for Adults and Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-103 Equivalent Facilitation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-104 Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-3
11B-105 Referenced Standards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-4
11B-106 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-4
11B-107 Special Conditions Appeals Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-7
11B-108 Maintenance of Accessible Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11B-7
DIVISION 2 – SCOPING REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11B-8
CBC § 104.1 Medium relevance — show source text
11B- 104.1 Dimensions. Dimensions that are not stated as “maximum” or “minimum” are absolute.
11B- 104.1.1 Construction and manufacturing tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific minimum and maximum end points.
11B- 104.2 Calculation of percentages. Where the required number of elements or facilities to be provided is determined by calculations of ratios or percentages and remainders or fractions result, the next greater whole number of such elements or facilities shall be provided. Where the determination of the required size or dimension of an element or facility involves ratios or percentages, rounding down for values less than one half shall be permitted.
11B- 104.3 Figures. Unless specifically stated otherwise, figures are provided for informational purposes only.
FIGURE 11B -104—GRAPHIC CONVENTION FOR FIGURES
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SECTION 11B- 105—REFERENCED STANDARDS
11B- 105.1 General. See Chapter 35.
SECTION 11B- 106—DEFINITIONS
11B- 106.1 General. For the purpose of this chapter, the terms listed in Section 11B- 106.5 and defined in Chapter 2 have the indicated meaning.
11B- 106.2 Terms defined in referenced standards. Terms not listed in Section 11B- 106.5 and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, but specifically defined in a referenced standard, shall have the specified meaning from the referenced standard unless otherwise stated.
11B- 106.3 Undefined terms. The meaning of terms not specifically listed in Section 11B- 106.5, and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.
11B- 106.4 Interchangeability . See Chapter 2, Section 201.2.
11B- 106.5 Defined terms . The following terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.
ACCESS AISLE
ACCESSIBILITY
ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
ADAPTABLE
ADDITION
ADJUSTED CONSTRUCTION COST
ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY
ADULT CHANGING FACILITY
AISLE
ALTERATION
AMUSEMENT ATTRACTION
AMUSEMENT RIDE
AMUSEMENT RIDE SEAT
ANSI
APPROVED
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY
AREA OF REFUGE
AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY
CBC § 11B-1 Medium relevance — show source text
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11B ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS,
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
DIVISION 1: APPLICATION AND ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 11B -101—PURPOSE
11B- 101.1 General. This chapter contains scoping and technical requirements for accessibility to sites, facilities, buildings and elements by individuals with disabilities. The requirements are to be applied during the design, construction, additions to, and alteration of sites, facilities, buildings and elements to the extent required by Chapter 1, Section 1.9.
11B- 101.2 Reserved.
11B- 102 Dimensions for adults and children. The technical requirements are based on adult dimensions and anthropometrics. In addition, this chapter includes technical requirements based on children’s dimensions and anthropometrics for drinking fountains, water closets, toilet compartments, lavatories and sinks, dining surfaces and work surfaces. 11B- 103 Equivalent facilitation. Nothing in these requirements prevents the use of designs, products or technologies as alternatives to those prescribed, provided they result in substantially equivalent or greater accessibility and usability.
SECTION 11B- 104—CONVENTIONS
11B- 104.1 Dimensions. Dimensions that are not stated as “maximum” or “minimum” are absolute.
11B- 104.1.1 Construction and manufacturing tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific minimum and maximum end points.
11B- 104.2 Calculation of percentages. Where the required number of elements or facilities to be provided is determined by calculations of ratios or percentages and remainders or fractions result, the next greater whole number of such elements or facilities shall be provided. Where the determination of the required size or dimension of an element or facility involves ratios or percentages, rounding down for values less than one half shall be permitted.
11B- 104.3 Figures. Unless specifically stated otherwise, figures are provided for informational purposes only.
FIGURE 11B -104—GRAPHIC CONVENTION FOR FIGURES
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SECTION 11B- 105—REFERENCED STANDARDS
11B- 105.1 General. See Chapter 35.
SECTION 11B- 106—DEFINITIONS
11B- 106.1 General. For the purpose of this chapter, the terms listed in Section 11B- 106.5 and defined in Chapter 2 have the indicated meaning.
CBC § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
The purpose of Appendix C is to provide voluntary prescriptive alternatives for addressing the retrofit of buildings in high-wind areas. Currently, there are two chapters which deal with the retrofit of gable ends and the fastening of roof decks, Appendix Chapters C1 and C2, respectively. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix D Board of Appeals.
Appendix D contains the provisions for appeal and the establishment of a board of appeals. The provisions include the application for an appeal, the makeup of the board of appeals and the conduct of the appeal process.
Appendix E Temporary Emergency Uses.
Appendix E is intended to provide guidance for designers, engineers, architects and fire and building officials on allowing temporary emergency uses of existing buildings with respect to the minimum code requirements. This appendix is a template or checklist that references the relevant code requirement of concerns.
Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies.
In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, the CEBC might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code
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officials to be able to determine the fire-resistance rating of the existing building elements as part of the overall evaluation for the assessment of the need for improvements. These guidelines are based upon the Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials published by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS).
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CBC § 106.3 Medium relevance — show source text
11B- 106.3 Undefined terms. The meaning of terms not specifically listed in Section 11B- 106.5, and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.
11B- 106.4 Interchangeability . See Chapter 2, Section 201.2.
11B- 106.5 Defined terms . The following terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.
ACCESS AISLE
ACCESSIBILITY
ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
ADAPTABLE
ADDITION
ADJUSTED CONSTRUCTION COST
ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY
ADULT CHANGING FACILITY
AISLE
ALTERATION
AMUSEMENT ATTRACTION
AMUSEMENT RIDE
AMUSEMENT RIDE SEAT
ANSI
APPROVED
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY
AREA OF REFUGE
AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY
ASSEMBLY AREA
ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS)
AUTOMATIC DOOR
AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINE (ATM)
BATHROOM
BLENDED TRANSITION
BOARDING PIER
BOAT LAUNCH RAMP
BOAT SLIP
BOTTLE FILLING STATION
BUILDING
BUILDING OFFICIAL
CATCH POOL
CCR
CHARACTERS
CHILDREN’S USE
CIRCULATION PATH
CLEAR
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CLEAR FLOOR SPACE
CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEPHONE
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
COMMERCIAL PLACE OF PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
COMMON USE
COMPLY WITH
CROSS SLOPE
CURB CUT
CURB RAMP
DESIGNATED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
DESIGNATED-ORIENTED ELEVATOR
DETECTABLE WARNING
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
DISABILITY
DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS
DORMITORY
DRIVE AISLE
DRIVE-UP ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION
DRIVEWAY
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGER
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SPACE (EV SPACE)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EVCS)
CBC § 202.3. Medium relevance — show source text
- Residential dwelling units not required to be accessible in compliance with this code shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 202.3.
11B- 202.3.1 Prohibited reduction in access. An alteration that decreases or has the effect of decreasing the accessibility of a building or facility below the requirements for new construction at the time of the alteration is prohibited.
11B- 202.3.2 Extent of application. An alteration of an existing element, space or area of a building or facility shall not impose a requirement for accessibility greater than required for new construction.
11B-202.3.3 Alteration of single elements. If alterations of single elements, when considered together, amount to an alteration of a room or space in a building or facility, the entire room or space shall be made accessible.
11B- 202.4 Path of travel requirements in alterations, additions and structural repairs. When alterations or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, an accessible path of travel to the specific area of alteration or addition shall be provided. The primary accessible path of travel shall include:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
5. Signs.
Exceptions:
1. Residential dwelling units shall comply with Section 11B-233.3.4.2. 2. If the following elements of a path of travel have been constructed or altered in compliance with the accessibility require- ments of the immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code, it shall not be required to retrofit such elements to reflect the incremental changes in this code solely because of an alteration to an area served by those elements of the path of travel:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
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5. Signs.
Note: The language in this exception, which refers to the “immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code,” shall permit a reference back to one CBC edition only and is not accumulative to prior editions. 3. Additions or alterations to meet accessibility requirements consisting of one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4: 1. Altering one building entrance. 2. Altering one existing toilet facility. 3. Altering existing elevators. 4. Altering existing steps. 5. Altering existing handrails. 4. Alterations solely for the purpose of barrier removal undertaken pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabil- _ities Act (Public Law 101-336, 28 C.F.R. Section 36.
CBC § 1.1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
Chapter 13 is not adopted by the State of California but may be available for adoption by local ordinance, see Section 1.1.11. See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.
Chapter 14 Relocated or Moved Buildings.
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
CBC § 11B-411.2.1.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
11B-411.2.1.3.2 Touch screen call console arrangement. Where touch screen call consoles are provided, the touch screen shall be located directly above the accessibility function button. The accessibility function button shall be located at a height of 36 inches (914 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the finish floor.
11B-411.2.1.3.3 Proximity of required elements. Required features shall be provided on a hall call console assembly or as individual elements grouped in close proximity.
11B-411.2.1.3.4 Position. Display screens and touch screens shall be positioned so glare is reduced on the screen. Keypads or buttons shall slope away from the user at 15 to 25 degrees from the vertical plane. Touch screens shall be sloped away from the user at 7 to 25 degrees from the vertical plane.
11B-411.2.1.4 Additional features. Hall call console additional features, if provided, shall comply with Sections 11B-309 and 11B-411.2.1.4.
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
11B-411.2.1.4.1 Hall call console additional buttons. Hall call console buttons provided in addition to the accessibility function button and keypad buttons shall comply with Section 11B-411.2.1.4.1. Buttons in addition to the accessibility func- tion button are not permitted on hall call consoles using a touch screen.
11B-411.2.1.4.1.1 Arrangement. Buttons shall be arranged in columns to the right of the keypad with a minimum hori- zontal spacing of 1.5 times the horizontal spacing between the numeric keys and with the same vertical spacing as the numeric keys.
11B-411.2.1.4.1.2 Identification. Buttons shall be identified by raised characters and symbols, white on a black back- ground, complying with Section 11B-703.2 and Braille complying with Section 11B-703.3. Identification shall be placed immediately to the left of the control button to which the designation applies.
11B-411.2.1.4.2 Security or access controls. Security or access control system card readers associated with elevator oper- ation shall be in close proximity to each hall call console in a consistent manner throughout the facility.
11B-411.2.1.5 Button requirements. Keypad buttons, the accessibility function button and additional hall call console buttons shall comply with Section 11B-411.2.1.5.
11B-411.2.1.5.1 Size. Buttons shall have square shoulders, be [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) minimum in the smallest dimension and shall be raised [1] / 8 inch (3.2 mm) plus or minus [1] / 32 inch (0.8 mm) above the surrounding surface. The buttons shall be acti- vated by a mechanical motion that is detectable.
CBC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: † The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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B SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING
BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Chapters 11A and 11B of the California Building Code contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement
process.
SECTION B101—QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
[BE] B101.1 General. Qualified historic buildings and facilities shall comply with Sections B101.2 through B101.5.
[BE] B101.2 Qualified historic buildings and facilities. These procedures shall apply to buildings and facilities designated as historic structures that undergo alterations or a change of occupancy.
[BE] B101.3 Qualified historic buildings and facilities subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Where an alteration or change of occupancy is undertaken to a qualified historic building or facility that is subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the federal agency with jurisdiction over the undertaking shall follow the Section 106 process. Where the state historic preservation officer or Advisory Council on Historic Preservation determines that compliance with the requirements for accessible routes, ramps, entrances, or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or facility, the alternative requirements of Section 306.7.16 for that element are permitted.
[BE] B101.4 Qualified historic buildings and facilities not subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Where an alteration or change of occupancy is undertaken to a qualified historic building or facility that is not subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and the entity undertaking the alterations believes that compliance with the requirements for accessible routes, ramps, entrances or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or facility, the entity shall consult with the state historic preservation officer. Where the state historic preservation officer determines that compliance with the accessibility requirements for accessible routes, ramps, entrances or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historical significance of the building or facility, the alternative requirements of Section 306.7.18 for that element are permitted.
[BE] B101.4.1 Consultation with interested persons. Interested persons shall be invited to participate in the consultation process, including state or local accessibility officials, individuals with disabilities, and organizations representing individuals with disabilities.
CBC § 101.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Code change proposals submitted for code sections that have a letter designation in front of them will be heard by the respective committee responsible for such code sections. Because different committees hold Committee Action Hearings in different years, proposals for most codes will be heard by committees in both the 2024 (Group A) and the 2025 (Group B) code development cycles. It is very important that anyone submitting code change proposals understands which code development committee is responsible for the section of the code that is the subject of the code change proposal.
Please visit the ICC website at iccsafe.org/products-and-services/i-codes/code-development/current-code-development-cycle for further information on the Code Development Committee responsibilities as it becomes available.
Coordination of the I-Codes
The coordination of technical provisions allows the I-Codes to be used as a complete set of complementary documents. Individual codes can also be used in subsets or as stand-alone documents. Some technical provisions that are relevant to more than one subject area are duplicated in multiple model codes.
INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
The International Building Code establishes minimum requirements for building systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new building designs.
The IBC is a model code that provides minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare of the occupants of new and existing buildings and structures. It addresses structural strength, means of egress, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, accessibility, energy conservation and life safety in regard to new and existing buildings, facilities and systems.
The IBC applies to all occupancies, including one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses that are not within the scope of the IRC . The IRC is referenced for coverage of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses as defined in the exception to Section 101.2 and the definition for “ Townhouse ” in Chapter 2. The IRC can also be used for the construction of live/work units (as
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defined in Section 508.5) and small bed and breakfast-style hotels where there are five or fewer guestrooms and the hotel is owneroccupied. The IBC applies to all types of buildings and structures unless exempted. Work exempted from permits is listed in Section 105.2.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CBC
The format of the CBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CBC is divided. The subsequent tables show CBC requirements that are correlated with other Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CBC.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTERS SUBJECTS 1, 2 Administration and Definitions 3 Use and Occupancy Classifications 4, 31,_ 31A–31F_ Special Requirements for Specific Occupancies or Elements 5–6 Height and Area Limitations Based on Type of Construction 7–9 Fire Resistance and Protection Requirements 10 Requirements for Evacuation 11A, 11B Specific Requirements to Allow Use and Access to a Building for Persons with Disabilities 12, 27,_28,_30 Building Systems, Such as Lighting, HVAC, Elevators 13 _This chapter is not adopted in California.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly do I look to find the list of standards the CBC references for accessibility?
Look in Chapter 35 — § 11B-105.1 directs you to Chapter 35 for the list and citations of referenced standards.
If a term is in § 11B-106.5, can I override that definition with a definition in a referenced standard?
No. If a term is listed in § 11B-106.5, the code says that term is defined in Chapter 2 § 202 and that is the controlling definition for Chapter 11B (see § 11B-106.1 and § 11B-106.5).
What if Chapter 2 and Chapter 35 both lack a definition for a term I find in plans?
The CBC directs you to use collegiate-dictionary meanings as used in context when a term is not defined in Chapter 2 § 202 or a referenced standard (see § 11B-106.3).
Where do I find the Chapter 2 definitions referenced by § 11B-106.1?
§ 11B-106.1 and § 11B-106.5 tell you the listed terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202 — open Chapter 2 § 202 of the CBC to read the exact text.
Who decides if a non-code definition is acceptable when there’s ambiguity?
First follow the hierarchy in § 11B-106. If ambiguity remains, consult the enforcing authority (building official) and Chapter 2 interchangeability rules (see § 11B-106.4 referring to Chapter 2 § 201.2).
More in California Building Code
- Administration & Permits
- Energy Efficiency
- Existing Buildings
- Occupancy Classification & Use
- Hazardous Materials & Occupancies
- Types of Construction
- Fire-Resistance & Fire Safety
- Interior Finishes
- Means of Egress
- Accessibility
- Exterior Walls
- Roofing & Roof Assemblies
- Structural Design
- Special Inspections & Tests
- Foundations & Soils
- Concrete
- Masonry
- Steel
- Wood
- Elevators & Conveying Systems
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