CBC · California Building Code

What test standards and material specs apply to concrete and its constituents?

For homeowners: the CBC requires concrete and its ingredients to meet the testing and material standards in ACI 318; the code’s Chapter 35 then lists the specific ASTM/PCI standards (for cement, aggregates, sampling and ready‑mix) that must be used or accepted by the building official.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Building Code (CBC) requires that materials used to produce concrete, the concrete itself, and the testing of concrete comply with the applicable standards called out in ACI 318; this is the baseline requirement in § 1903.1. Chapter 35 of the CBC also lists specific referenced standards (ASTM, PCI, etc.) for cement, aggregates, sampling, ready‑mix, silica fume and other constituents; certain named ASTM standards are explicitly permitted by exception in § 1903.1.

Requirements in detail

High‑level rule

  • Comply with the testing and material standards listed in ACI 318 for concrete materials, concrete and testing procedures (the CBC adopts ACI 318 as the primary standard for concrete). This requirement is stated at § 1903.1.

  • The CBC permits the use of certain ASTM cement standards as exceptions to (or in addition to) ACI 318 references: ASTM C150, ASTM C595 and ASTM C1157, as noted in the exception to § 1903.1.

Specific materials and referenced standards (decision‑relevant)

The CBC delegates the detailed test methods and material specifications to the standards it references. The table below collects the primary decision‑relevant constituents, example standards referenced in Chapter 35, and the direct CBC code reference tying them back to Chapter 19 / § 1903.

Material / constituent Typical referenced standard (Chapter 35 examples) Decision‑relevant dimension/value or use Code Reference
Overall requirement (concrete & testing) ACI 318 (applicable standards listed in ACI 318) Governs mix design, durability, testing methods and acceptance referenced by CBC § 1903.1
Portland cement ASTM C150 (Portland Cement), ASTM C1157 (performance cements), ASTM C595 (blended cements) Cement type and performance spec for mixes — permitted by § 1903.1 exception and listed in Chapter 35 § 1903.1 (exception)
Supplementary cementitious materials (fly ash, slag, silica fume) ASTM C618 (fly ash/pozzolan), ASTM C989 (slag cement), ASTM C1240 (silica fume) Allows use of SCMs where applicable to mix design per ACI 318; materials must meet ASTM specs in Chapter 35 Chapter 35 referenced standards list
Aggregates ASTM C33 (concrete aggregates) Grading and quality requirements for coarse and fine aggregates used in structural concrete Chapter 35 referenced standards list (ASTM C33)
Ready‑mixed concrete ASTM C94 (Specification for Ready‑Mixed Concrete) Plant production and delivery controls — referenced in CBC referenced standards Chapter 35 referenced standards list (ASTM C94)
Sampling & specimen making ASTM C172 (sampling), ASTM C31/C31M (making & curing field specimens) Governs how to take and cure acceptance specimens for compressive testing Chapter 35 referenced standards list (ASTM C172, C31)
Glass fiber‑reinforced concrete (GFRC) PCI 128 GFRC materials and testing per PCI 128 are permitted where applicable under § 1903.2 § 1903.2
Insulating concrete form (ICF) materials ASTM E2634 ICF materials used for forming flat walls must conform to ASTM E2634 per § 1903.3 (with agency limitations noted) § 1903.3
Mixing water (reclaimed/recycled water allowances, green code) ASTM C1602 (mixing water for hydraulic cement concrete) — referenced in Green Building appendices Where recycled/reclaimed mixing water is used, it must meet relevant ASTM spec listed in CBC/GBC appendices GBC / Appendix references (see Green Code)

Notes:

  • The CBC text in § 1903.1 makes ACI 318 the controlling reference for concrete materials and testing; Chapter 35 supplies the alphabet soup of ASTM/PCI standards that specify how constituents are tested and what numeric limits/criteria they must meet.
  • Where the CBC or a state agency (OSHPD, DSA, etc.) adds specific limitations or exceptions, those appear alongside the § 1903 subsections (for example, OSHPD restrictions shown in the GFRC/ICF subsections).

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CBC expressly permits the use of ASTM C150, C595 and C1157 as exceptions to ACI 318 references; use of those ASTM cement specifications is therefore allowed under § 1903.1 (exception).

  • GFRC must follow PCI 128 as noted in § 1903.2.

  • Insulating concrete form materials for flat walls must conform to ASTM E2634 per § 1903.3; note that OSHPD adoption notes may prohibit some uses for hospital state projects — see the subsection text for agency‑specific restrictions.

  • Some state agencies place further limits (e.g., OSHPD disallowing steel‑fiber reinforcement in certain facility types); read the subsection text and the agency notes in Chapter 19/19A when working on projects under special jurisdiction.

  • Durability requirements for structural concrete are governed by ACI 318 (see § 1904.1), so durability thresholds and related acceptance are controlled through that standard as adopted by the CBC.

If a material or test method is not listed in either ACI 318 or the CBC’s Chapter 35 referenced standards, the code requires approval through alternative methods (see Chapters 1 and 17 procedures for new or alternate materials and tests) — consult the enforcement agency and the referenced alternative‑test sections. (Relevant procedural sections are cited elsewhere in the CBC; see Related provisions below.)

Common mistakes

  • Saying “the CBC prescribes ASTM X for everything.” In reality § 1903.1 makes ACI 318 the primary standard; specific ASTM/PCI standards are listed in Chapter 35 and some ASTM cement standards are allowed by exception. Always cite § 1903.1 and then the Chapter 35 standard list.

  • Overlooking agency‑specific prohibitions or modifications (OSHPD, DSA, etc.). The CBC’s Chapter 19 subsections include agency notes (e.g., OSHPD not permitting certain materials) — check the subsection language for project jurisdiction.

  • Treating the Chapter 35 list as optional guidance rather than binding referenced standards. The Chapter 35 referenced standards are the code’s mechanism for specifying test methods and material specs; where a standard is listed there it is the accepted method unless an approved alternative is used.

  • Using reclaimed or returned concrete / water without confirming the relevant ASTM standard acceptance and any local agency approval (the Green Building Code and CBC refer to ASTM specs where permitted).

Worked example — specifying concrete for a small commercial slab

Scenario: You are the specifier preparing construction documents for a commercial slab‑on‑grade. You plan to specify 4,000 psi concrete, ready‑mixed.

What the CBC requires you to state and what standards apply:

  1. Construction documents must show the specified compressive strength of concrete and age for acceptance (e.g., f'c = 4,000 psi at 28 days) per § 1901.5.

  2. Material and testing standards: by § 1903.1 the mix, materials and testing must comply with the applicable standards listed in ACI 318. That means your mix design and acceptance testing should follow ACI 318 procedures as adopted by the CBC.

  3. For constituent specifications use Chapter 35 referenced standards:

    • Cement: specify Portland cement complying with ASTM C150 (or a performance cement per ASTM C1157) as permitted by the exception to § 1903.1 and listed in Chapter 35.
    • Aggregates: require aggregates to meet ASTM C33 (Chapter 35 list).
    • Ready‑mix: require plant production and delivery to conform to ASTM C94.
    • Sampling and specimens: require sampling per ASTM C172 and specimen making and curing per ASTM C31/C31M for acceptance tests.

  4. Acceptance testing: take field specimens per the listed ASTM standards (C172/C31) and test compressive strength per the test method required by ACI 318 (the CBC defers to ACI 318 for testing details). Because § 1903.1 points to ACI 318 as the controlling standard, your lab’s test method and report formats should be consistent with ACI 318 requirements.

  5. If you intend to use recycled aggregates, SCMs or reclaimed mixing water, verify the specific ASTM standards listed in Chapter 35 (for example, ASTM C618 for fly ash, ASTM C989 for slag, ASTM C1602 for mixing water in green code contexts) and obtain enforcement‑agency approvals as needed.

Summary of documents a specifier should attach or reference: ACI 318 (for test procedures and acceptance philosophy as adopted by CBC), ASTM C94 (ready‑mix), ASTM C150/C1157 (cement), ASTM C33 (aggregates), ASTM C172 and C31 (sampling/specimen), and any project‑specific agency notes (OSHPD/DSA) if applicable.

Related provisions

  • § 1901.5 — Construction documents must list specified compressive strength and related design values.
  • § 1901.6 — Special inspections and tests of concrete elements are required as provided in Chapter 17.
  • § 1903.2 — GFRC materials and testing per PCI 128.
  • § 1903.3 — ICF materials to conform to ASTM E2634; agency limitations noted.
  • § 1904.1 — Structural concrete durability requirements follow ACI 318.
  • Chapter 35 — Referenced standards list (ASTM C150, C94, C31, C33, C618, C1240, etc.) that the CBC uses to specify test and material requirements; see Chapter 35 referenced‑standards tables.

Code references

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

  • CBC § 1903.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1903—SPECIFICATIONS FOR TESTS AND MATERIALS

    1903.1 General. Materials used to produce concrete, concrete itself and testing thereof shall comply with the applicable standards listed in ACI 318.

    Exception: The following standards as referenced in Chapter 35 shall be permitted to be used.

    1. ASTM C150

    2. ASTM C595

    3. ASTM C1157

    1903.2 Glass fiber-reinforced concrete. Glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) and the materials used in such concrete shall be in accordance with the PCI 128.

    1903.3 Flat wall insulating concrete form (ICF) systems. Insulating concrete form material used for forming flat concrete walls shall conform to ASTM E2634. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not Permitted by OSHPD.

    1903.4 Steel fiber reinforcement - [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 19-5

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

    �

    CONCRETE

    1903.5 Welding of reinforcing bars - [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Modify ACI 318 Section 26.6.4.1(b) by adding the following:

    Subject to prior approval of the enforcing agency, longitudinal holding wires conforming to ASTM A1064, of maximum wire size W5, that are machine resistance welded to stirrup/tie cage (or spiral assemblies) consisting of low alloy steel reinforcing conforming to ASTM A706 are permitted when performed under continuous competent control in a fabrication shop. Tack welding of primary rein- forcing bars together or to stirrups/ties is not permitted. Holding wire weld locations shall not occur on any longitudinal or primary reinforcing nor on any portion of a reinforcing bar that is or will be bent in accordance with ACI 318 Section 25.3 for the extents speci- fied in AWS D1.4 Section 4.2.6.

    Quality control tests shall be performed on shop welded specimens by the fabricator. Reinforcing steel specimens containing the holding wire shall be tested for yield and tensile strength at the frequency required by Section 1910.2. Test reports shall be available on request to the approved agency, design professional and enforcement agency.

    SECTION 1904—DURABILITY REQUIREMENTS

    1904.1 Structural concrete. Structural concrete shall conform to the durability requirements of ACI 318.

    Exception: For Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies not more than three stories above grade plane, the specified compressive strength, f´ c, for concrete in basement walls, foundation walls, exterior walls and other vertical surfaces exposed to the weather shall be not less than 3,000 psi (20.7 MPa).

  • CBC § 19-5 High relevance — show source text

    1903 Specifications for Tests and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . 19-5

    1904 Durability Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-6

    1905 Seismic Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-6

    1906 Footings for Light-Frame Construction . . . . . . . . . . 19-8

    1907 Slabs-on-Ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-8

    1908 Shotcrete. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-8

    1909 Additional Requirements for Community Colleges

    [DSA-SS/CC]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19-8

    1910 Additional Requirements for Skilled Nursing Facilities, Intermediate Care Facilities, Acute Psychiatric and Non-GAC Buildings

    [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19-12

    1911 Existing Concrete Structures [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5]. . . . . . .19-13

    CHAPTER 19A CONCRETE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19A-1

    1901A General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-3

    1902A Coordination of Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-4

    1903A Specifications for Tests and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-4

    1904A Durability Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-4

    1905A Seismic Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-4

    1906A Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-5

    1907A Slabs-on-Ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-5

    1908A Shotcrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-6

    1909A Modifications to ACI 318. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19A-6

  • CBC § 1603.1 High relevance — show source text

    Construction documents 1603.1,

    1901.5 Durability 1904 Footings 1809, 1906 Foundation walls 1807.1.5, 1808.8 Materials 1705.3.2, 1901, 1903 Plain, structural 1906 Reinforced gypsum concrete 2514 Rodentproofing Appendix F Roof tile 1504.3, 1507.3, 1513 Shotcrete 1908 Slabs-on-ground 1907 Special inspections 1705.3, Table 1705.3 Specifications 1903 Strength testing 1705.3.2 Structural concrete with GFRP

    reinforcement 1901.2.1 Wood support 2304.13 Concrete Masonry Calculated fire resistance 722.3

    Construction 2104

    Design 2101.2, 2108, 2109 Materials 2103.1 Surface bonding 2103.2.2, 2109.2 Wood support 2304.13 Concrete Roof Tile 1504.3, 1507.3, 1513 Wind Resistance 1504.3, 1609.6.3.1 Condominium (see Apartment Houses) Conduit, Penetration Protection 713.3,

    1023.5 Conflicts in Code 102, 104.2.4.1 Congregate Living Facilities 310.2, 310.3, 310.4

    Construction (See Safeguards During Construction) Construction Documents 107, 1603 Alarms and detection 907.1.1

    Balconies 107.2.5

    Concrete construction 1901.5 Design load-bearing capacity 1803.6 Exterior walls 107.2.4

    Fire protection 107.2.2 Fire-resistant joint systems 715 Flood 107.2.6.1, 1603.1.7 Floor live load 1603.1.1

    Geotechnical 1603.1.6 Means of egress 107.2.3

    INDEX-4 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    INDEX

    Parking structures 402.4.1.3, 402.4.2.3 Perimeter line 402.1.1 Play structures 402.6.3, 424 Separation 402.4.2 Signs 402.6.4 Smoke control 402.7.2 Sprinkler protection 402.5 Standby power 402.7.3 Standpipe system 402.7.1, 905.3.3 Travel distance 402.8.5, 1006.2.1, 1006.3, 1017.2 Covered Walkway (see Pedestrian Walkway) 3104, 3306.7 Crawl Space

    Access 1209.1

    Drainage 1805.1.2 Unusable space fire protection 711.2.6 Ventilation 1202.4 Cripple Wall 2308.10.6, 2308.10.8.3, 2308.2.7, 2308.9.6 Cross-Laminated Timber 602.4, 602.4.4.2,

    2303.1.4

  • CBC § 1901.4 High relevance — show source text

    _ Screw-type anchors tested with a calibrated torque wrench shall attain the specified torque within one-quarter ( [ 1] / 4 ) turn of the screw after initial seating of the screw head.

    1901.4 Composite structural steel and concrete structures. Systems of structural steel acting compositely with reinforced concrete shall be designed in accordance with Section 2206 of this code.

    1901.5 Construction documents. The construction documents for structural concrete construction shall include:

    1. The specified compressive strength of concrete at the stated ages or stages of construction for which each concrete element is designed.

    2. The specified strength or grade of reinforcement.

    3. The size and location of structural elements, reinforcement and anchors.

    4. Provision for dimensional changes resulting from creep, shrinkage and temperature.

    5. The magnitude and location of prestressing forces.

    6. Anchorage length of reinforcement and location and length of lap splices.

    7. Type and location of mechanical and welded splices of reinforcement.

    8. Details and location of contraction or isolation joints specified for plain concrete.

    9. Minimum concrete compressive strength at time of posttensioning.

    10. Stressing sequence for posttensioning tendons.

    11. For structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F, a statement if slab on grade is designed as a structural diaphragm.

    1901.6 Special inspections and tests. S pecial inspections and tests of concrete elements of buildings and structures and concreting operations shall be as required by Chapter 17.

    1901.7 Tolerances for structural concrete. Where not indicated in construction documents, structural tolerances for concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with this section.

    1901.7.1 Cast-in-place concrete tolerances. Structural tolerances for cast-in-place concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with ACI 117.

    Exceptions:

    1. Group R-3 detached one- or two-family dwellings are not required to comply with this section.
    2. Shotcrete is not required to comply with this section.

    1901.7.2 Precast concrete tolerances. Structural tolerances for precast concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with ACI ITG-7.

    Exception: Group R-3 detached one- or two-family dwellings are not required to comply with this section.

    SECTION 1902—COORDINATION OF TERMINOLOGY

    1902.1 General. Coordination of terminology used in ACI 318 and ASCE 7 shall be in accordance with Section 1902.1.1.

    1902.1.1 Design displacement. Design displacement shall be the Design Earthquake Displacement, δ DE, defined in ASCE 7 Section 12.8.6.3. For diaphragms that can be idealized as rigid in accordance with ASCE 7 Section 12.3.1.2, δ di, displacement due to diaphragm deformation corresponding to the design earthquake, is permitted to be taken as zero.

    SECTION 1903—SPECIFICATIONS FOR TESTS AND MATERIALS

    1903.1 General. Materials used to produce concrete, concrete itself and testing thereof shall comply with the applicable standards listed in ACI 318.

    Exception: The following standards as referenced in Chapter 35 shall be permitted to be used.

    1. ASTM C150

    2. ASTM C595

    3. ASTM C1157

  • CBC § 19A-3 High relevance — show source text

    1901 A .6 Special inspections and tests. S pecial inspections and tests of concrete elements of buildings and structures and concreting operations shall be as required by Chapter 17A and Section 1910A.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 19A-3

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

    �

    �

    CONCRETE

    1901 A .7 Tolerances for structural concrete. Where not indicated in construction documents, structural tolerances for concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with this section.

    1901 A .7.1 Cast-in-place concrete tolerances. Structural tolerances for cast-in-place concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with ACI 117.

    Exceptions:

    1. Group R-3 detached one- or two-family dwellings are not required to comply with this section.
    2. Shotcrete is not required to comply with this section. [DSA-SS] Tolerances for shotcrete construction shall be defined by the construction documents.

    1901 A .7.2 Precast concrete tolerances. Structural tolerances for precast concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with ACI ITG-7.

    Exception: Group R-3 detached one- or two-family dwellings are not required to comply with this section.

    SECTION 1902 A —COORDINATION OF TERMINOLOGY

    1902 A .1 General. Coordination of terminology used in ACI 318 and ASCE 7 shall be in accordance with Section 1902 A .1.1.

    1902 A .1.1 Design displacement. Design displacement shall be the Design Earthquake Displacement, δ DE, defined in ASCE 7 Section 12.8.6.3. For diaphragms that can be idealized as rigid in accordance with ASCE 7 Section 12.3.1.2, δ di, displacement due to diaphragm deformation corresponding to the design earthquake, is permitted to be taken as zero.

    SECTION 1903 A —SPECIFICATIONS FOR TESTS AND MATERIALS

    1903 A .1 General. Materials used to produce concrete, concrete itself and testing thereof shall comply with the applicable standards listed in ACI 318.

    1903 A .2 Glass fiber-reinforced concrete. Glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) and the materials used in such concrete shall be in accordance with the PCI 128.

    1903 A .3 Flat wall insulating concrete form (ICF) systems. Insulating concrete form material used for forming flat concrete walls shall conform to ASTM E2634. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Not permitted by OSHPD. [DSA-SS] ICF systems shall be considered alternative systems. Concrete constructed using ICF systems and attachments to ICF shall be designed for loads in accordance with this code and shall comply with manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards determined applicable by the enforcement agency. Calculations and drawings shall be submitted to the enforcement agency for review and approval prior to construction.

    1903A.4 Steel fiber reinforcement – Not permitted.

  • CBC § 2205.1 High relevance — show source text

    Cold-Formed Steel 2204

    Cold-formed Stainless Steel 2205.1 Cutting and notching 2206.3 Light-frame construction 2206 Special inspection 1705.12.2, 1705.13.3, 1705.2.3, 1705.2.7 Combustible Dusts 307.4, 414.5.1, 426.1 Combustible Liquids 307.1, 307.4, 307.5, 414.2.5, 414.5.3, 415.9.2, 415.10.1, 418.6

    Combustible Material

    Concealed spaces 413.2, 718.5 Exterior side of exterior wall 1405 High-pile stock or rack storage 413.1, 910.2.2 Type I and Type II 603, 805 Combustible Projections 705.2, 705.2.3.1 Combustible Storage 413, 910.2.2 Common Path of Egress Travel 1006.2.1 Compartmentation Ambulatory care facilities 422.2, 422.3 Group I-2 407.5, 407.6 Group I-3 408.6 Laboratory suites 428.3 Underground buildings 405.4, 405.5.2 Compressed Gas 307.2, 415.11.8 Concealed Spaces 413.2, 718 Concrete Chapters 19 and 19A Anchorage 1901.3 Calculated fire resistance 722.2

    Cellular 721.2

    Construction documents 1603.1,

    1901.5 Durability 1904 Footings 1809, 1906 Foundation walls 1807.1.5, 1808.8 Materials 1705.3.2, 1901, 1903 Plain, structural 1906 Reinforced gypsum concrete 2514 Rodentproofing Appendix F Roof tile 1504.3, 1507.3, 1513 Shotcrete 1908 Slabs-on-ground 1907 Special inspections 1705.3, Table 1705.3 Specifications 1903 Strength testing 1705.3.2 Structural concrete with GFRP

    reinforcement 1901.2.1 Wood support 2304.13 Concrete Masonry Calculated fire resistance 722.3

    Construction 2104

    Design 2101.2, 2108, 2109 Materials 2103.1 Surface bonding 2103.2.2, 2109.2 Wood support 2304.13 Concrete Roof Tile 1504.3, 1507.3, 1513 Wind Resistance 1504.3, 1609.6.3.1 Condominium (see Apartment Houses) Conduit, Penetration Protection 713.3,

    1023.5 Conflicts in Code 102, 104.2.4.1 Congregate Living Facilities 310.2, 310.3, 310.4

    Construction (See Safeguards During Construction) Construction Documents 107, 1603 Alarms and detection 907.1.1

    Balconies 107.2.5

  • CBC § 18A-11 High relevance — show source text

    1808A Foundations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18A-11

    1809A Shallow Foundations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18A-14

    1810A Deep Foundations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18A-15

    1811A Prestressed Rock and Soil Foundation

    Anchors [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18A-25

    1812A Earth Retaining Shoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18A-26

    1813A Vibro Stone Columns for Ground

    Improvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18A-29

    CHAPTER 19 CONCRETE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-1

    1901 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-3

    1902 Coordination of Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-5

    1903 Specifications for Tests and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . 19-5

    1904 Durability Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-6

    1905 Seismic Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-6

    1906 Footings for Light-Frame Construction . . . . . . . . . . 19-8

    1907 Slabs-on-Ground . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-8

    1908 Shotcrete. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-8

    1909 Additional Requirements for Community Colleges

    [DSA-SS/CC]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19-8

    1910 Additional Requirements for Skilled Nursing Facilities, Intermediate Care Facilities, Acute Psychiatric and Non-GAC Buildings

    [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19-12

    1911 Existing Concrete Structures [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5]. . . . . . .19-13

  • CBC § 1901.7.1 High relevance — show source text

    1901.7.1 Cast-in-place concrete tolerances. Structural tolerances for cast-in-place concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with ACI 117.

    Exceptions:

    1. Group R-3 detached one- or two-family dwellings are not required to comply with this section.
    2. Shotcrete is not required to comply with this section.

    1901.7.2 Precast concrete tolerances. Structural tolerances for precast concrete structural elements shall be in accordance with ACI ITG-7.

    Exception: Group R-3 detached one- or two-family dwellings are not required to comply with this section.

    SECTION 1902—COORDINATION OF TERMINOLOGY

    1902.1 General. Coordination of terminology used in ACI 318 and ASCE 7 shall be in accordance with Section 1902.1.1.

    1902.1.1 Design displacement. Design displacement shall be the Design Earthquake Displacement, δ DE, defined in ASCE 7 Section 12.8.6.3. For diaphragms that can be idealized as rigid in accordance with ASCE 7 Section 12.3.1.2, δ di, displacement due to diaphragm deformation corresponding to the design earthquake, is permitted to be taken as zero.

    SECTION 1903—SPECIFICATIONS FOR TESTS AND MATERIALS

    1903.1 General. Materials used to produce concrete, concrete itself and testing thereof shall comply with the applicable standards listed in ACI 318.

    Exception: The following standards as referenced in Chapter 35 shall be permitted to be used.

    1. ASTM C150

    2. ASTM C595

    3. ASTM C1157

    1903.2 Glass fiber-reinforced concrete. Glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) and the materials used in such concrete shall be in accordance with the PCI 128.

    1903.3 Flat wall insulating concrete form (ICF) systems. Insulating concrete form material used for forming flat concrete walls shall conform to ASTM E2634. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not Permitted by OSHPD.

    1903.4 Steel fiber reinforcement - [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 19-5

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

    �

    CONCRETE

    1903.5 Welding of reinforcing bars - [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Modify ACI 318 Section 26.6.4.1(b) by adding the following:

  • CBC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text

    1902 A .1.1 Design displacement. Design displacement shall be the Design Earthquake Displacement, δ DE, defined in ASCE 7 Section 12.8.6.3. For diaphragms that can be idealized as rigid in accordance with ASCE 7 Section 12.3.1.2, δ di, displacement due to diaphragm deformation corresponding to the design earthquake, is permitted to be taken as zero.

    SECTION 1903 A —SPECIFICATIONS FOR TESTS AND MATERIALS

    1903 A .1 General. Materials used to produce concrete, concrete itself and testing thereof shall comply with the applicable standards listed in ACI 318.

    1903 A .2 Glass fiber-reinforced concrete. Glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) and the materials used in such concrete shall be in accordance with the PCI 128.

    1903 A .3 Flat wall insulating concrete form (ICF) systems. Insulating concrete form material used for forming flat concrete walls shall conform to ASTM E2634. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Not permitted by OSHPD. [DSA-SS] ICF systems shall be considered alternative systems. Concrete constructed using ICF systems and attachments to ICF shall be designed for loads in accordance with this code and shall comply with manufacturer’s instructions and industry standards determined applicable by the enforcement agency. Calculations and drawings shall be submitted to the enforcement agency for review and approval prior to construction.

    1903A.4 Steel fiber reinforcement – Not permitted.

    1903A.5 Welding of reinforcing bars - Modify ACI 318 Section 26.6.4.2(b) by adding the following:

    Subject to prior approval of the enforcing agency, longitudinal holding wires, conforming to ASTM A1064 of maximum wire size W5, that are machine resistance welded to stirrup/tie cage (or spiral assemblies) consisting of low alloy steel reinforcing conforming to ASTM A706 are permitted when performed under continuous competent control in a fabrication shop. Tack welding of primary reinforcing bars together or to stirrups/ties is not permitted. Holding wire weld locations shall not occur on any longitudinal or primary reinforcing nor on any portion of a reinforcing bar that is or will be bent in accordance with ACI 318 Section 25.3 for the extents specified in AWS D1.4 Section 4.2.6.

    [DSA-SS] Exception: Mat reinforcing for slabs or isolated footings shall be permitted to have holding wires located no more than six bar diameters from the free end of reinforcing. Such free ends shall not be associated with any welded splices, couplers or other free- end modifications involving reinforcement development.

    Quality control tests shall be performed on shop-welded specimens by the fabricator. Reinforcing steel specimens containing the holding wire shall be tested for yield and tensile strength at the frequency required by Section 1910A.2. Test reports shall be available on request to the approved agency, design professional and enforcement agency.

    SECTION 1904 A —DURABILITY REQUIREMENTS

    1904 A .1 Structural concrete. Structural concrete shall conform to the durability requirements of ACI 318.

  • CBC § 17A-21 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-21

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

    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    SECTION 1706 A —DESIGN STRENGTHS OF MATERIALS

    1706 A .1 Conformance to standards. The design strengths and permissible stresses of any structural material that are identified by a manufacturer’s designation as to manufacture and grade by mill tests, or the strength and stress grade is otherwise confirmed to the satisfaction of the building official, shall conform to the specifications and methods of design of accepted engineering practice or the approved rules in the absence of applicable standards.

    1706 A .2 New materials. For materials that are not specifically provided for in this code, the design strengths and permissible stresses shall be established by tests as provided for in Section 1707 A .

    SECTION 1707 A —ALTERNATIVE TEST PROCEDURE

    1707 A .1 General. In the absence of approved rules or other approved standards, the building official shall make, or cause to be made, the necessary tests and investigations; or the building official shall accept duly authenticated reports from approved agencies in respect to the quality and manner of use of new materials or assemblies as provided for in Section 104.2.3. The cost of all tests and other investigations required under the provisions of this code shall be borne by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

    SECTION 1708 A —IN-SITU LOAD TESTS

    1708 A .1 General. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt as to the stability or load-bearing capacity of a completed building, structure or portion thereof for the expected loads, an engineering assessment shall be required. The engineering assessment shall involve either a structural analysis or an in-situ load test, or both. The structural analysis shall be based on actual material properties and other as-built conditions that affect stability or load-bearing capacity, and shall be conducted in accordance with the applicable design standard. The in-situ load tests shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1708 A .2. If the building, structure or portion thereof is found to have inadequate stability or load-bearing capacity for the expected loads, modifications to ensure structural adequacy or the removal of the inadequate construction shall be required.

    1708 A .2 In-situ load tests. In-situ load tests shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1708 A .2.1 or 1708 A .2.2 and shall be supervised by a registered design professional. The test shall simulate the applicable loading conditions specified in Chapter 16 as necessary to address the concerns regarding structural stability of the building, structure or portion thereof.

    1708 A .2.1 Load test procedure specified. Where a referenced material standard contains an applicable load test procedure and acceptance criteria, the test procedure and acceptance criteria in the standard shall apply. In the absence of specific load factors or acceptance criteria, the load factors and acceptance criteria in Section 1708 A .2.2 shall apply.

    1708 A **.2.2 Load test procedure not specified.

  • CBC § 1010.2.3 High relevance — show source text

    Hardware 1010.2.3 Toilet facilities for public pools Chapter 29

    Technical Production Areas 410.2.2, 410.5.3 Telephone Exchanges 304 Telescopic Seating (see Bleachers) Temporary Structures 3103 Certificate of occupancy 108.3, 111.3 Conformance 108.2, 3103.1.2 Construction documents 3103.2 Encroachment, public rights-ofway 3202.3 Flood provisions G113 Means of egress 3103.4 Permit 108.1, 3103.1.3 Power, temporary 108.3, 112.2 Structural 3103.6 Termination of approval 108.4 Tenant Separation Covered and open mall building 402.4.2.1, 708.1 Tents (see Temporary Structures) Termites, Protection From 2304.12 Terra Cotta 1404.10, 1411

    INDEX-20 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    INDEX

    Unlimited Area Buildings 507 Unsafe Structures and Equipment (see Structures, Unsafe) 116 Appeals 113, Appendix B Revocation of permit 105.6 Stop work orders 115 Utilities disconnection 112.3

    Unstable Materials 307.3, Table 414.2.5.1, Table 414.5.1, Table 415.6.5, 415.7.1, 415.9 Unusable Space 711.2.6 Use and Occupancy Chapter 3 Accessory 508.2 Classification 302.1

    Detailed requirements based on occupancy and use Chapter 4 Incidental uses 509, Table 509.1 Mixed 508.3, 508.4 Use designation 302.2 Utilities 112

    Service connection 112.1

    Service disconnection 112.3

    Temporary connection 112.2 Utility and Miscellaneous Occupancy (Group U) 312 Accessibility Chapters 11A and 11B Agricultural buildings Appendix C Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Flood provisions Appendix G Height 503, 504, 508 Incidental uses 509

    Live loads Table 1607.1 Means of egress Exit signs 1013.1 Stairway, exit access 1019 Mixed occupancies 508.3, 508.4 Special provisions Private garages and carports 406.3 Residential aircraft hangars 412.4 Sprinkler protection 903.2.11 Travel distance 1006.2.1, 1006.3,

    1017.1 UV Germicidal Irradiation Systems

    1211

  • CBC § 20026-3627 High relevance — show source text

    20026-3627
    http://www.aham.org| |ANSI/AHAM DW-1-2010|Household Electric Dishwashers|202| |ASHRAEAmerican Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. 180 Technology Parkway NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
    www.ashrae.org|**ASHRAE**American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. 180 Technology Parkway NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
    www.ashrae.org|**ASHRAE**American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. 180 Technology Parkway NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
    www.ashrae.org| |ANSI/ASHRAE
    Standard 52.2- 2017
    |Method of Testing General Ventilation Air-Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency
    by Particle Size
    |5.504.1| |ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Three Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5990
    www.asme.org|~~**ASME~~ American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Three Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5990
    www.asme.org|~~    ASME~~ American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Three Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5990
    www.asme.org| |ASME A112.18.1|Plumbing Supply Fittings|5.303.6| |ASME A112.19.2|Ceramic Plumbing Fixtures|WS-2| |ASME A112.19.14
    |Six-Liter Water Closets Equipped with a Dual Flushing Device
    |WS-2, 5.303.6| |~~    ASTM ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2859
    www.astm.org|    ASTM ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2859
    www.astm.org|    ASTM **~~ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2859
    www.astm.org| |ASTM C31/C31M-19|Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field|A5.405.5.3.4| |ASTM C33|Standard Specification for Concrete Aggregates|A5.405.5.3.2| |ASTM C150|Standard Specification for Portland Cement|A5.405.5.1| |ASTM C595|Standard Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements|A5.405.5.1| |ASTM C618|Standard Specification for Coal Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use in
    Concrete|A5.405.5.2.1| |ASTM C989|Standard Specification for Slag Cement for Use in Concrete and Mortars|A5.405.5.2.1| |ASTM C1157|Standard Performance Specification for Hydraulic Cement|A5.405.5.1| |ASTM C1240|Standard Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures|A5.405.5.2.1| |ASTM C1371-98|Standard Test Method for Determination of Emittance of Materials Near Room
    Temperature Using Portable Emissometers|A5.106.11.2.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to follow every ASTM standard listed in Chapter 35?

Follow the standards that apply to the materials and tests you are specifying. § 1903.1 directs you to ACI 318 for applicable testing/material standards and Chapter 35 supplies the specific ASTM/PCI standards the CBC references; use the standards relevant to your concrete constituents and testing.

Can I specify a performance cement instead of ASTM C150?

Yes—§ 1903.1’s exception permits the ASTM cement standards named (ASTM C150, C595, C1157), and Chapter 35 lists those standards. Use the cement type that meets the performance required by the design and that is listed/allowed in the referenced standards.

Who decides on alternate test methods or non‑listed materials?

Alternate or new materials/test methods must be approved through the code’s alternative materials and tests procedures (see Chapters 1 and 17 for the approval path and special inspection/test requirements). Consult the enforcing agency.

Is ACI 318 the only place that defines acceptance testing?

Yes — for CBC purposes, § 1903.1 makes ACI 318 the controlling standard for concrete materials and testing; Chapter 35 provides the referenced ASTM/PCI standards that supplement ACI 318.

Are there extra restrictions for hospital or school projects?

Yes — Chapter 19 subsections include agency notes and may prohibit or modify use of certain materials (OSHPD, DSA), so check the subsection language for agency‑specific restrictions on materials like GFRC, steel fibers or ICFs.

More in California Building Code

Ask about the CBC

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Building Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the CBC

What are the durability requirements for concrete (exposure, cover, minimum strength)?

When are special inspections and testing required for concrete work?

Materials, test methods and durability

California Building Code