CBC · California Building Code

When does Chapter 11B apply?

Chapter 11B applies to newly designed/newly constructed buildings and to altered portions of existing buildings; it also covers temporary structures and construction support facilities, and requires each portion of a mixed-use space to meet the requirements for its use (see §§ 11B-101 and 11B-201).

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Chapter 11B applies when you are designing, constructing, adding to, or altering buildings, facilities, sites and elements that must be accessible to people with disabilities. The chapter sets both scoping (where it applies) and technical requirements; its purpose and the fact that it applies during design, construction, additions and alterations are stated in § 11B-101.1.

More specifically, “all areas of newly designed and newly constructed buildings and facilities and altered portions of existing buildings and facilities shall comply” with Chapter 11B; the code also explains how the chapter applies to mixed-use spaces, temporary structures and construction support facilities (see § 11B-201.1–.4).

Requirements in detail

Core scope rules (what triggers Chapter 11B)

  • New construction: Any newly designed or newly constructed building, facility, site or element must meet Chapter 11B scoping and technical requirements. See § 11B-201.1.
  • Alterations: Altered portions of existing buildings/facilities must comply (i.e., the altered area is brought within Chapter 11B’s scope). See § 11B-201.1.
  • Mixed uses: If a space has more than one use, each portion must meet the requirements applicable to its use. See § 11B-201.2.
  • Temporary structures: The Chapter applies to temporary and permanent buildings and facilities. See § 11B-201.3.
  • Construction support facilities (site offices, plan rooms, job-site toilets, etc.): These must comply when provided; portable toilets must include at least one accessible unit connected by an accessible route, with a limited exception for access during construction. See § 11B-201.4 (and its exception).

Decision table — When Chapter 11B applies

Decision dimension Value(s) that matter Result (Chapter 11B applies?) Code Reference
New construction Any newly designed/newly constructed building or facility Yes § 11B-201.1
Alterations Altered portions of existing buildings/facilities Yes (to the altered portion) § 11B-201.1
Multiple uses in same space Site/building/room contains >1 use Each portion must meet requirements for its use § 11B-201.2
Temporary vs. permanent Temporary or permanent structure Both are covered § 11B-201.3
Construction support facilities On-site offices, plan rooms, toilets, etc. Covered; toilets served by portable units require at least one accessible unit and an accessible route (with a narrow construction exception) § 11B-201.4
Overall legal basis When applied during design, construction, additions, alterations Chapter provides scoping & technical requirements for accessibility § 11B-101.1

Practical implications of the scope language

  • “All areas of newly designed and newly constructed buildings and facilities and altered portions of existing buildings and facilities shall comply” means you treat each new or altered area as subject to Chapter 11B unless another explicit exception applies. The starting point for compliance is § 11B-201.1.
  • For projects that change only part of a building (for example, renovating a lobby), the obligation is to make the altered space comply; other parts of the building need not be retrofitted solely because of the partial alteration except where other provisions (e.g., path-of-travel requirements) apply (see related provisions). The mixed-use rule (§ 11B-201.2) requires treating each portion according to its use.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Construction exception for routes: During construction, an accessible route is not required between site arrival points or the construction area boundary and the construction support facility entrance if the only connection is a vehicular way that does not provide pedestrian access. This is the explicit limited exception in § 11B-201.4.
  • Temporary facilities: Chapter 11B covers temporary buildings and facilities the same as permanent ones (§ 11B-201.3), so assume accessibility obligations unless a different code exception applies.
  • Purpose-level guidance: § 11B-101.1 makes clear these scoping and technical requirements are to be applied during design, construction, additions and alterations to the extent required by Chapter 1, Section 1.9 — that cross-reference can affect jurisdiction/enforcement.

If you need the more detailed rules on what specific alterations trigger added path-of-travel obligations (e.g., primary entrance, toilet rooms, signs), those are contained in § 11B-202 and subsequent sections; the controlling sections you requested do not themselves list those path-of-travel elements in full. The text for path-of-travel responsibilities and exceptions is in § 11B-202 et seq.

Common mistakes

  • Treating “alteration” as all-or-nothing: designers sometimes assume an entire building must be brought to current accessibility standards when only part is altered. The code requires compliance for altered portions — treat scope at the element/space level as in § 11B-201.1.
  • Ignoring mixed-use splits: if a room or site has multiple uses, each portion must meet the requirements for that use (see § 11B-201.2). Failing to segregate or to apply the correct scoping by use leads to noncompliance.
  • Assuming temporary equals exempt: temporary structures are included in the Chapter’s application (see § 11B-201.3); you must check accessibility requirements even for short-term installations.
  • Overlooking the construction-site exception limits: the exception in § 11B-201.4 is narrowly drawn (applies only when the only access is a vehicular way that does not provide pedestrian access). Relying on a broader interpretation risks noncompliance.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A city permits renovation of an existing 6,000 ft² community center. The project will (a) replace the front doors and lobby finishes, (b) alter two public restrooms, and (c) add a temporary modular office on site during construction.

Step 1 — New vs. altered: The community center is existing; the work scope (doors, lobby, restrooms) are alterations. Per § 11B-201.1, altered portions must comply with Chapter 11B — so the renovated lobby and restrooms are in scope.

Step 2 — Identify mixed uses: If the lobby also contains a small café counter (a separate use), each portion must meet the applicable requirements for that use (§ 11B-201.2). Plan compliance checks by portion/use.

Step 3 — Temporary facilities during construction: The on-site temporary modular office is a temporary facility and therefore covered by § 11B-201.3; make the temporary office accessible (e.g., accessible route to it, accessible entrance and at least one accessible restroom if provided), unless the limited construction-site exception in § 11B-201.4 applies (which is unlikely if pedestrian access is available).

Result: Design the new lobby doors and altered restrooms to meet Chapter 11B technical requirements; ensure the temporary office and any provided portable toilets include an accessible unit and accessible route unless the exception strictly applies. The legal starting points for these obligations are § 11B-101.1 and § 11B-201.1–.4.

Related provisions (select)

  • § 11B-101 — Purpose; chapter scope and application during design, construction, additions and alterations.
  • § 11B-201 — Application (scope for new construction, alterations, mixed uses, temporary structures, construction support facilities and the construction exception).
  • § 11B-202 — Existing buildings and facilities; alterations, additions and path-of-travel requirements (detailed application when altering existing buildings).
  • § 11B-108 — Maintenance of accessible features (operability/maintenance obligations).
  • § 11B-233.3.4 — Specific rules for alterations to residential dwelling units (covered multifamily/public housing topics referenced by Chapter 11B).

(If you want, I can extract the exact text of § 11B-202 and the path-of-travel elements and exceptions so you can see precisely what must be upgraded when you alter a given element.)

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text

    8. Timeshare dwellings with 3 or more units, not considered a place of public accommodations or transient lodging as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19955 (a), and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code.

    9. Other Group R occupancies in covered multifamily dwellings which are regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal. See Section 1.11.

    10. Public housing as defined in Chapter 2 of this code is subject to provisions of the Division of the State Architect (DSA-AC) in Chap- ter 11B. Newly constructed covered multifamily dwellings, which can also be defined as public housing, shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 11B.

    1102A.2 Existing buildings. The building standards contained in this chapter do not apply to the alteration, repair, rehabilitation or maintenance of multifamily dwellings constructed for first occupancy on or before March 13, 1991.

    Covered multifamily dwellings shall be maintained in compliance with the accessibility standards in effect at the time of construction. Apartments constructed prior to March 13, 1991 shall be maintained in compliance with the accessibility standards in effect at the time of construction.

    Additions shall be subject to the requirements of this chapter, provided the addition, when considered alone, meets the definition of a covered multifamily dwelling, as defined in Chapter 2. New common use spaces serving existing covered multifamily dwellings shall be subject to the requirements of this chapter.

    Note: For all existing public use areas, public accommodations and public housing, see Chapter 11B for provisions of the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance (DSA-AC).

    1102A.3 Multistory dwellings.

    1102A.3.1 Multistory apartment or condominium dwellings in buildings with no elevator. This section shall apply to multistory dwelling units on the ground floor of buildings without elevators for which an application for a construction permit is submitted on or after July 1, 2005.

    Exception: Carriage units as defined in Chapter 2 and regulated only by the Department of Housing and Community Development as referenced in Section 1.8.2.1.2.

    At least 10 percent but not less than one of the multistory dwellings in apartment buildings with 3 or more dwelling units and/or condominiums with 4 or more dwelling units shall comply with the following:

    1. The primary entry to the dwelling unit shall be on an accessible route unless exempted by site impracticality tests in Section 1150A.

    2. At least one powder room or bathroom shall be located on the primary entry level, served by an accessible route and shall comply with the provisions in Division IV.

    3. All rooms or spaces located on the primary entry level shall be served by an accessible route and shall comply with the provi- sions in Division IV. Rooms and spaces located on the primary entry level and subject to this chapter may include but are not limited to kitchens, powder rooms, bathrooms, living rooms, bedrooms or hallways.

    4. Common use areas covered by this section shall be accessible as required by this chapter. Public use areas as defined in Chapter 2 of this code are subject to provisions of the Division of the State Architect (DSA-AC) and are referenced in Section 1.9.1.1.

  • CBC § 8-6 High relevance — show source text

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    APPENDIX A Col2 Col3 Col4
    CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY
    Title II
    Public Entities    		 Title III
    Private Entities    		 Title III
    Barrier Removal
    SECTION 8-601 PURPOSE, INTENT, SCOPE
    **8-601.1 Purpose.**The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to facilitate
    access and use by persons with disabilities to and throughout facilities designated as quali-
    fied historical buildings or properties. These regulations require enforcing agencies to
    accept alternatives to regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or
    properties.
    **8-601.2 Intent.**The intent of this chapter is to preserve the integrity of qualified historical
    buildings and properties while providing access to and use by persons with disabilities.
    **8-601.3 Scope.**The CHBC shall apply to every qualified historical building or property that
    is required to provide access to persons with disabilities.
    1.Provisions of this chapter do not apply to new construction or reconstruction/replicas of
    historical buildings.
    2. Where provisions of this chapter apply to alteration of qualified historical buildings or
    properties, alteration is defined in_ California Building Code_ (CBC), Chapter 2.
    8-601.4 General application. The provisions in the CHBC apply to local, state and federal
    governments (Title II entities); alteration of commercial facilities and places of public
    accommodation (Title III entities); and barrier removal in commercial facilities and places of
    public accommodation (Title III entities). Except as noted in this chapter.    		 Applies Applies Applies
    SECTION 8-602 — BASIC PROVISIONS
    8-602.1 Regular code. The regular code for access for people with disabilities (Title 24, Part
    2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B) shall be applied to qualified historical buildings or properties unless
    strict compliance with the regular code will threaten or destroy the historical significance or
    character-defining features of the building or property.
    **8-602.2 Alternative provisions.**If the historical significance or character-defining features
    are threatened, alternative provisions for access may be applied pursuant to this chapter,
    provided the following conditions are met:
    1.These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis.
    2.Documentation is provided, including meeting minutes or letters, stating the reasons
    for the application of the alternative provisions. Such documentation shall be retained
    in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.    		 Applies Applies Applies
    Section 8-603 — ALTERNATIVES
    **8-603.1 Alternative minimum standards.**The alternative minimum standards for alter-
    ations of qualified historical buildings or facilities are referenced in Section 202.5 of the_ 2010_
    ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as incorporated and set forth in federal regulation 28
    CFR Pt. 36.
    **8-603.2 Entry.
  • CBC § 233.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of Sections 11B- 233.3.1.1 and 11B-233.3.1.3 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are altered under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a common site.

    11B-233.3.4.3 Alterations to residential dwelling units with adaptable features. The building standards for residential dwell- ing units with adaptable features do not apply to the alteration, repair, rehabilitation or maintenance of residential dwelling units constructed for first occupancy on or prior to March 13, 1991. Multifamily dwelling units with adaptable features constructed for first occupancy after March 13, 1991 shall be maintained in compliance with the accessibility standards in effect at the time of construction.

    Exception: Where any portion of a building’s exterior is preserved, but the interior of the building is removed, including all struc- tural portions of floors and ceilings and a new building is constructed behind the existing exterior, the building is considered a new building for determining the application of this chapter.

    11B- 233.3.5 Dispersion. Residential dwelling units required to provide mobility features complying with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4 and residential dwelling units required to provide communication features complying with Section 11B- 809.5 shall be dispersed among the various types of residential dwelling units in the facility and shall provide choices of residential dwelling units comparable to, and integrated with, those available to other residents.

    Exception: Where multistory residential dwelling units are one of the types of residential dwelling units provided, one-story residential dwelling units shall be permitted as a substitute for multistory residential dwelling units where equivalent spaces and amenities are provided in the one-story residential dwelling unit.

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    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    11B-233.3.6 Graduate student and faculty housing at a place of education. Housing facilities that are provided by or on behalf of a place of education, with residential dwelling units leased on a year-round basis exclusively to graduate students or faculty, and that do not contain any public use or common use areas available for educational programming, are not subject to Section 11B-224 and shall comply with Section 11B-233.

    SECTION 11B- 234—AMUSEMENT RIDES

    11B- 234.1 General. Amusement rides shall comply with Section 11B- 234 .

    Exception: Mobile or portable amusement rides shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 234 .

    11B- 234.2 Load and unload areas. Load and unload areas serving amusement rides shall comply with Section 11B- 1002.3.

    11B- 234.3 Minimum number. Amusement rides shall provide at least one wheelchair space complying with Section 11B- 1002.4, or at least one amusement ride seat designed for transfer complying with Section 11B- 1002.5, or at least one transfer device complying with Section 11B- 1002.6.

  • CBC § 11A-45 High 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 § 1101A.1 High relevance — show source text

    Section 1105A Garages, Carports and Parking Facilities

    Section 1106A Site and Building Characteristics

    Section 1107A Definitions

    SECTION 1101A—APPLICATION

    1101A.1 Scope. The application and authority of this chapter are identified and referenced in Sections 1.8.2.1.2 and 1102A for the Department of Housing and Community Development. Applicable sections are identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables of this code under the abbreviation HCD 1-AC.The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the following:

    1. All newly-constructed covered multifamily dwellings.

    2. New common use areas serving existing covered multifamily dwellings.

    3. Additions to existing buildings, where the addition alone meets the definition of a covered multifamily dwelling.

    4. New common-use areas serving new covered multifamily dwellings.

    5. Where any portion of a building’s exterior is preserved, but the interior of the building is removed, including all structural portions of floors and ceilings, the building is considered a new building for determining the application of this chapter.

    Chapter 11A generally does not apply to public accommodations such as hotels and motels and public housing. Public use areas, public accommodations and public housing as defined in Chapter 2 of this code are subject to provisions of the Division of the State Architect (DSA-AC) in Chapter 11B, and are referenced in Section 1.9.1.

    Newly constructed covered multifamily dwellings, which can also be defined as public housing, shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 11B.

    SECTION 1102A—BUILDING ACCESSIBILITY

    1102A.1 Where required. Buildings or portions of buildings and facilities within the scope of this chapter shall be accessible to persons with disabilities. Each building on a building site shall be considered separately when determining the requirements contained in this chapter, except when calculating the number of units which must comply with Section 1102A.3.1. Dwelling units within a single structure separated by firewalls do not constitute separate buildings.

    Newly-constructed covered multifamily dwellings as defined in this chapter, include, but are not limited to, the following:

    1. Apartment buildings with 3 or more dwelling units including timeshare apartments not considered a place of public accommo- dation or transient lodging as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19955 (a), and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code.

    2. Condominiums with 4 or more dwelling units including timeshare condominiums not considered a place of public accommoda- tion or transient lodging as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19955 (a), and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code.

    3. Lodging houses, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code, used as a residence with more than 3 but not more than 5 guest rooms.

    4. Congregate residences, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code, with 3 or more sleeping units.

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    HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

    5. Dwellings with 3 or more efficiency units, as defined in Chapter 2 of this code, or Section 17958.1 of the California Health and Safety Code.

  • CBC § 233.3.4 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 233.3.4 Alterations. Alterations shall comply with Section 11B- 233.3.4.

    Exception: Where compliance with Section 11B- 809.2, 11B- 809.3 or 11B- 809.4 is technically infeasible, or where it is technically infeasible to provide an accessible route to a residential dwelling unit, the entity shall be permitted to alter or construct a comparable residential dwelling unit to comply with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4 provided that the minimum number of residential dwelling units required by Sections 11B- 233.3.1.1 and 11B-233.3.1.3, as applicable, is satisfied.

    11B- 233.3.4.1 Alterations to vacated buildings. Where a building is vacated for the purposes of alteration, and the altered building contains more than 15 residential dwelling units, at least 5 percent of the residential dwelling units shall comply with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4 and shall be on an accessible route as required by Section 11B- 206. In addition, at least 2 percent of the residential dwelling units shall comply with Section 11B- 809.5.

    11B- 233.3.4.2 Alterations to individual residential dwelling units. In individual residential dwelling units, where a bathroom or a kitchen is substantially altered, and at least one other room is altered, the requirements of Section 11B- 233.3.1 shall apply to the altered residential dwelling units until the total number of residential dwelling units complies with the minimum number required by Sections 11B- 233.3.1.1 and 11B-233.3.1.3. Residential dwelling units required to comply with Section 11B- 233.3.1.1 shall be on an accessible route as required by Section 11B- 206 .

    Exception: Where facilities contain 15 or fewer residential dwelling units, the requirements of Sections 11B- 233.3.1.1 and 11B-233.3.1.3 shall apply to the total number of residential dwelling units that are altered under a single contract, or are developed as a whole, whether or not located on a common site.

    11B-233.3.4.3 Alterations to residential dwelling units with adaptable features. The building standards for residential dwell- ing units with adaptable features do not apply to the alteration, repair, rehabilitation or maintenance of residential dwelling units constructed for first occupancy on or prior to March 13, 1991. Multifamily dwelling units with adaptable features constructed for first occupancy after March 13, 1991 shall be maintained in compliance with the accessibility standards in effect at the time of construction.

    Exception: Where any portion of a building’s exterior is preserved, but the interior of the building is removed, including all struc- tural portions of floors and ceilings and a new building is constructed behind the existing exterior, the building is considered a new building for determining the application of this chapter.

  • CBC § 1009.3 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. One accessible means of egress is required from an accessible mezzanine level in accordance with Section 1009.3, 1009.4 or 1009.5, and Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable.
    2. In assembly areas with ramped aisles or stepped aisles, one accessible means of egress is permitted where the common path of egress travel is accessible and meets the requirements in Section 1030.8 and Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable.

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1009.2 Continuity and components. Each required accessible means of egress shall be continuous to a public way and shall consist of one or more of the following components:

    1. Accessible routes complying with Chapter 11A, Sections 1110A.1 and 1119A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206 and 11B-402, as applicable.
    2. Interior exit stairways complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1023, and Chapter 11A, Section 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.
    3. Exit access stairways complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1019.3 or 1019.4, and Chapter 11A, Section 1123A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-210 and 11B-504, as applicable.
    4. Exterior exit stairways complying with Sections 1009.3 and 1027, Chapter 11A, Section 1115A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B- 210 and 11B-504, as applicable, and serving levels other than the level of exit discharge.
    5. Elevators complying with Section 1009.4, and Chapter 11A, Section 1124A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.6 and 11B-407, as applicable.
    6. Platform lifts complying with Section 1009.5, and Chapter 11A, Section 1124A, or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.7, 11B-207.2 and 11B-410, as applicable.
    7. Horizontal exits complying with Section 1026.
    8. Ramps complying with Section 1012, and Chapter 11A, Sections 1114A and 1122A, or Chapter 11B, 11B-405, as applicable.
    9. Areas of refuge complying with Section 1009.6.
    10. Exterior areas for assisted rescue complying with Section 1009.7 serving exits at the level of exit discharge. 11. Safe dispersal areas where they are allowed under Section 1028.5.

    1009.2.1 Elevators required. In buildings where a required accessible floor is four or more stories above or below a level of exit discharge or where an accessible occupiable roof is above a story that is three or more stories above the level of exit discharge, not less than one required accessible means of egress shall include an elevator complying with Section 1009.4.

    Exceptions:

  • CBC § 8-503 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE 9

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    SECTION 8-503 — ESCAPE OR RESCUE WINDOWS AND DOORS

    Basements in dwelling units and every sleeping room below the fourth floor shall have at least one openable window or door approved for emergency escape which shall open directly into a public street, public way, yard or exit court. Escape or rescue windows or doors shall have a minimum clear area of 3.3 square feet (0.31 m [2] ) and a minimum width or height dimension of 18 inches (457 mm) and be operable from the inside to provide a full, clear opening without the use of special tools.

    SECTION 8-504 — RAILINGS AND GUARDRAILS

    The height of railings and guard railings and the spacing of balusters may continue in their historical height and spacing unless a distinct hazard has been identified or created by a change in use or occupancy.

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    8-6 ACCESSIBILITY

    SECTION 8-601 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE

    8-601.1 Purpose. The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to facilitate access and use by persons with disabilities to and throughout facilities designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. These regulations require enforcing agencies to accept alternatives to regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.

    8-601.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to preserve the integrity of qualified historical buildings and properties while providing access to and use by persons with disabilities.

    8-601.3 Scope. The CHBC shall apply to every qualified historical building or property that is required to provide access to persons with disabilities.

    1. Provisions of this chapter do not apply to new construction or reconstruction/replicas of historical buildings.
    2. Where provisions of this chapter apply to alteration of qualified historical buildings or properties, alteration is defined in California Building Code (CBC), Chapter 2.

    8-601.4 General application. The provisions in the CHBC apply to local, state and federal governments (Title II entities); alteration of commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities); and barrier removal in commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities). Except as noted in this chapter.

    SECTION 8-602 — BASIC PROVISIONS

    8-602.1 Regular code. The regular code for access for people with disabilities (Title 24, Part 2, Vol. 1, Chapter 11B) shall be applied to qualified historical buildings or properties unless strict compliance with the regular code will threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining features of the building or property.

    8-602.2 Alternative provisions. If the historical significance or character-defining features are threatened, alternative provisions for access may be applied pursuant to this chapter, provided the following conditions are met:

    1. These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or a case-by-case basis.
    2. Documentation is provided, including meeting minutes or letters, stating the reasons for the application of the alternative provisions. Such documentation shall be retained in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 8-603 — ALTERNATIVES

  • CBC § 11B-107 Medium relevance — show source text

    VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGN (VMS)

    VARIABLE MESSAGE SIGN (VMS) CHARACTERS

    VEHICULAR WAY

    WALK

    WET BAR

    WHEELCHAIR

    WHEELCHAIR SPACE

    WORKSTATION

    WORK AREA EQUIPMENT

    11B-107 Special conditions appeals action. See Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1.5.

    11B-108 Maintenance of accessible features. Features, facilities and equipment required by Chapter 11B to be accessible to and useable by persons with disabilities shall be maintained in operable working condition. Isolated or temporary interruptions in service or accessibility due to maintenance or repairs shall be permitted.

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    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    DIVISION 2: SCOPING REQUIREMENTS

    SECTION 11B- 201—APPLICATION

    11B- 201.1 Scope. All areas of newly designed and newly constructed buildings and facilities and altered portions of existing buildings and facilities shall comply with these requirements.

    11B- 201.2 Application based on building or facility use. Where a site, building, facility, room or space contains more than one use, each portion shall comply with the applicable requirements for that use.

    11B- 201.3 Temporary and permanent structures. These requirements shall apply to temporary and permanent buildings and facilities.

    11B-201.4 Construction support facilities. These requirements shall apply to temporary or permanent construction support facilities for uses and activities not directly associated with the actual processes of construction, including but not limited to offices, meeting rooms, plan rooms, other administrative or support functions. When provided, toilet and bathing facilities serving construction support facilities shall comply with Section 11B-213. When toilet and bathing facilities serving construction support facilities are provided by portable units, at least one of each type shall be accessible and connected to the construction support facilities it serves by an accessible route.

    Exception: During construction an accessible route shall not be required between site arrival points or the boundary of the area of construction and the entrance to the construction support facilities if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access.

    SECTION 11B- 202—EXISTING BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES

    11B- 202.1 General. Additions and alterations to existing buildings or facilities shall comply with Section 11B- 202 .

    11B- 202.2 Additions. Each addition to an existing building or facility shall comply with the requirements for new construction and shall comply with Section 11B-202.4.

    11B- 202.3 Alterations. Where existing elements or spaces are altered, each altered element or space shall comply with the applicable requirements of Division 2, including Section 11B-202.4.

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

  • CBC § 202.3. Medium relevance — show source text
    1. 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

    11B-8 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    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 § 11A-1 Medium relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11A-1

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    11A-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    11A HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY

    NOTE 1: Covered multifamily dwellings may be subject to the requirements of more than one jurisdiction or law, which would require compliance with each law. Where federal, state or local laws differ, the more stringent requirements apply. For additional information, see the Joint Statement of the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Justice issued April 30, 2013 (www.hud.gov).

    NOTE 2: Dwelling units constructed as senior citizen housing may also be subject to the Unruh Civil Rights Act. Refer to Division I, Part 2 of the California Civil Code. For additional information regarding application, interpretation and enforcement, contact the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

    DIVISION I – APPLICATION, GENERAL PROVISIONS AND DEFINITIONS

    Division I Table of Contents

    Section 1101A Application

    Section 1102A Building Accessibility

    Section 1103A Design and Construction

    Section 1104A Covered Multifamily Dwellings

    Section 1105A Garages, Carports and Parking Facilities

    Section 1106A Site and Building Characteristics

    Section 1107A Definitions

    SECTION 1101A—APPLICATION

    1101A.1 Scope. The application and authority of this chapter are identified and referenced in Sections 1.8.2.1.2 and 1102A for the Department of Housing and Community Development. Applicable sections are identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables of this code under the abbreviation HCD 1-AC.The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the following:

    1. All newly-constructed covered multifamily dwellings.

    2. New common use areas serving existing covered multifamily dwellings.

    3. Additions to existing buildings, where the addition alone meets the definition of a covered multifamily dwelling.

    4. New common-use areas serving new covered multifamily dwellings.

    5. Where any portion of a building’s exterior is preserved, but the interior of the building is removed, including all structural portions of floors and ceilings, the building is considered a new building for determining the application of this chapter.

    Chapter 11A generally does not apply to public accommodations such as hotels and motels and public housing. Public use areas, public accommodations and public housing as defined in Chapter 2 of this code are subject to provisions of the Division of the State Architect (DSA-AC) in Chapter 11B, and are referenced in Section 1.9.1.

    Newly constructed covered multifamily dwellings, which can also be defined as public housing, shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 11B.

    SECTION 1102A—BUILDING ACCESSIBILITY

  • CBC § 1009.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    1009.1 Moving walk 1003.7 Number 1001.2, 1006 Occupant load 1004 Parking 406.5.7 Protruding objects 1003.3, 1005.7 Ramps 1012, 1019, 1027 Scoping 101.3, 108.2, 1001.1 Seating, fixed 1009.1, 1030 Special amusement areas 411.4 Stages 410.2.3, 410.5 Stairways 403.5, 404.6, 1005.3.1, 1011, 1019, 1023, 1027 Temporary structures 3103.4 Travel distance (see Travel Distance) 1006.2.1,

    1017

    Turnstile 1010.5

    Underground buildings 405.5.1, 405.7 Width 1005.1, 1005.2, 1005.4, 1011.2, 1012.5.1, 1020.3, 1030.6, 1030.8 Mechanical (see Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration and Ventilation) 101.4.2 Access 1011.12, 1208.4 Air transfer openings 705.11, 706.11, 707.10, 708.9, 709.8, 712.1.6, 713.10, 714.1.1, 717 Chimneys (see Chimneys) Code Chapter 28 Disconnected 3303.6

    Ducts 704.7, 705.11, 706.11, 707.10, 708.9, 709.8, 710.8, 712.1.10.3, 712.1.6, 713.10, 714.1.1, 717 Encroachment, public right-of-way 3202.3.2 Equipment on roof 1511 Equipment platforms 505.3 Fireplaces 2111 Incidental use room Table 509.1

    Motion picture projection room 409.3 Permit required 105.1, 105.2 Roof access 1011.12 Seismic inspection and testing 1704.3.2, 1705.13.7 Smoke control system 909 Systems Chapter 28 Mechanically Laminated Decking 2304.9.3 Medical Care (see Institutional I-2) 407.1 Medical Gas Systems 427 Membrane Roof Coverings 1507.11, 1507.12, 1507.13 Membrane Structures 2702.2, 3102 Mercantile Occupancy (Group M) 309 Accessible Chapter 11B Alarm and detection 907.2.6.3.4

    Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Covered and open mall buildings 402 Hazardous material display and storage 414.2.5 Height 503, 504, 505, 508 Incidental uses 509

Frequently asked questions

When does a renovation trigger Chapter 11B requirements?

When the work is an alteration to a building or facility, the altered portions must comply with Chapter 11B; see § 11B-201.1.

Do temporary job-site trailers have to be accessible?

Yes — Chapter 11B applies to temporary structures (§ 11B-201.3). Also, construction support facilities (including portable toilets) must provide accessible units and accessible routes except for a narrow construction exception in § 11B-201.4.

If a building has mixed uses, how do I apply the rules?

Apply the Chapter requirements to each portion based on its use; § 11B-201.2 requires that each portion comply with the applicable requirements for that use.

Does Chapter 11B apply to new additions only, or to additions to existing buildings too?

Each addition must comply with the requirements for new construction; altered portions of existing buildings are also subject to applicable requirements (§ 11B-201.1).

Where is the basic “why” for Chapter 11B written in the code?

The chapter purpose and its application during design, construction, additions and alterations are stated in § 11B-101.1.

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