CBC · California Building Code
What are the five types of construction and minimum classification rules
The CBC divides buildings into Types I through V. Each Type is defined in § 602 and Table 601 prescribes the minimum fire‑resistance (hours or heavy‑timber) required for principal elements (frame, walls, floors, roof). Section § 602.1.1 says you are not forced to adopt a higher type just because some parts meet it; consult Table 601 and the relevant subsections of § 602 for the exact hourly requirements and material rules.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Building Code (CBC) requires every building or structure to be classified as one of five types of construction (Types I through V) and to meet the minimum material and fire‑resistance requirements shown in Table 601; those classification rules are controlled by Sections § 601 and § 602. Buildings must also meet the specific minimum‑type rule that applies to the occupancy (a building is not required to meet a higher construction type just because some elements conform to it) per § 602.1.1.
Requirements in detail
High‑level rule
- The chapter establishes five types of construction and assigns minimum fire‑resistance requirements for principal building elements in Table 601; those fire‑resistance ratings (or heavy‑timber requirements) determine how a building is classified and what structural/fire protections are required. See § 601 and § 602.1 for scope and general rule.
What each type means (short)
- Type I and II — building elements required by Table 601 to be of noncombustible materials (with limited exceptions in § 603). See § 602.2.
- Type III — exterior walls are of noncombustible materials; interior building elements may be any material permitted by the code; limited use of fire‑retardant‑treated wood in exterior assemblies is allowed. See § 602.3.
- Type IV — mass timber (heavy timber) or noncombustible elements meeting the Table 601 ratings and the mass‑timber provisions in § 2304.11 and § 602.4. Mass timber protection rules and labeling (e.g., CLT per ANSI/APA PRG 320) are addressed in the code. See § 602.4.
- Type V — the most combustible construction (materials and ratings shown in Table 601, Types VA and VB); specific definition and allowance are in § 602.5 (see § 602.1 noting the five types are defined in §§ 602.2–602.5). See § 602.1 and Table 601.
Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick lookup table)
- Use this table when deciding a minimum required type for a given occupancy or when reading Table 601 to determine required ratings for the principal elements.
| Decision dimension | Typical values / rule | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| How many construction types? | Five (Type I, II, III, IV, V) | § 602.1 |
| Material requirement for Types I & II | Noncombustible for building elements specified in Table 601 (exceptions in § 603) | § 602.2; Table 601 |
| Material requirement for Type III | Exterior walls noncombustible; interior elements per code | § 602.3 |
| Material requirement for Type IV | Mass timber or noncombustible with Table 601 fire resistance; mass timber labeling & protection rules apply | § 602.4 and § 2304.11 |
| Primary structural frame rating (example values from Table 601) | Type IA = 3 hr; IB = 2 hr; IIA = 1 hr; IIB = 0 hr; IIIA = 1 hr; IIIB = 0 hr; IV depends on HT/mass timber; VA = 1 hr; VB = 0 hr | Table 601 & Appendix J summary |
| Exterior bearing wall example rating (from Table 601) | Type IA = 3 hr; IB = 2 hr; IIA = 1 hr; IIB = 0 hr; IIIA = 2 hr; IIIB = 2 hr; IVA = 3 hr; IVB = 2 hr; VA = 1 hr; VB = 0 hr | Table 601 |
| Minimum‑type rule (don’t be forced upward) | A building need not conform to a higher type just because some features do; minimum type is set by occupancy and applicable tables | § 602.1.1 |
(For full element‑by‑element hourly requirements consult Table 601 directly; Table 601 is the controlling table showing required fire‑resistance ratings by element and by subtype A/B/HT etc.)
Exceptions & special cases
- Minimum‑type restriction: A building is not required to be detailed to a higher type of construction simply because some elements meet that higher type; the controlling minimum is the type required by occupancy and the tables (§ 602.1.1).
- Type IV mass timber: mass timber elements may comply by using either the mass timber ratings themselves or by providing noncombustible protection; specific protection details and time assignments are handled per § 703.2 and the mass timber subsections in § 602.4 (including IV‑A, IV‑B, IV‑C labeling and protection rules).
- Noncombustible construction may still include limited combustible materials where permitted by § 603 (combustible materials in Types I and II); consult § 603 for allowable exceptions.
If you need an exhaustive list of the specific Table 601 rating for every building element (primary structural frame, bearing walls interior/exterior, floor/roof assemblies, nonbearing walls, etc.), consult Table 601 directly; that table is the precise element‑level standard the CBC enforces.
Common mistakes
- Reading “Type” colloquially: assuming “Type” refers only to framing material (wood vs concrete). In the CBC the type combines permitted materials and the required fire‑resistance ratings for specific elements — you must read Table 601, not just look at the word “wood” or “concrete.” § 602 and Table 601 govern this.
- Applying a higher rating selectively: installing a 3‑hour frame but not meeting the wall or floor hourly ratings does not change the building’s minimum required type; § 602.1.1 prevents being required to adopt a higher type if only some features meet it.
- Forgetting mass‑timber protection rules: assuming mass timber elements automatically satisfy Table 601; Types IV‑A/B/C have rules about noncombustible protection applied to mass timber and labeling per § 602.4 and § 703.2.
Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers
Scenario: You are designing a 3‑story apartment building (Group R‑2) and the project team proposes Type IIIA construction. What minimum fire ratings for the principal elements must you plan for?
Step 1 — confirm the type: Type III is defined in § 602.3; “A” means the higher‑rated subcategory in Table 601.
Step 2 — read Table 601 for the principal elements (primary structural frame, exterior bearing walls, interior bearing walls): Table 601 requires (values read from the Table): primary structural frame = 1 hour for Type IIIA; exterior bearing walls = 2 hours for Type IIIA; interior bearing walls = 1 hour for Type IIIA. Plan structural members and fireproofing to meet those hourly ratings.
Note: the same building’s allowable height and area are also affected by the construction type — see height/area tables (Chapter 5) that use the Type designation, so selecting IIIA versus IIIB changes allowable area and stories. See Table 506.x and related tables for area/height limits.
Related provisions
- § 601 — General scope for types of construction and control of classification.
- § 602 (and subsections 602.1, 602.1.1, 602.2–602.5) — Construction classification, minimum rule, and the textual definitions for Types I–V.
- Table 601 — Fire‑resistance rating requirements for building elements (the element‑level “minimums” table).
- § 603 — Combustible materials allowed in Types I and II (exceptions and limitations).
- § 703.2 — Methods for determining fire‑resistance ratings where Table 601 requires a rating (application of protection or tested assembly).
- § 705.5 (and Table 705.5) — Exterior wall fire‑resistance in relation to fire separation distance (Table 601 references exterior wall ratings and § 705.5).
- § 2304.11 — Heavy timber (dimensions and permitted materials referenced by Type IV/HT).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
Fire-retardant-treated wood members shall be
allowed to be used for such unprotected members.
2. For Group A, E, I, L, R-1, R-2 and R-2.1 occupancies, high-rise buildings, and other applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, fire protec-
tion of members other than the primary structural frame shall not be required, including protection of roof framing and decking where every part of the roof construction is 20
feet or more above any floor immediately below. Fire-retardant-treated wood members shall be allowed to be used for such unprotected members.
3. One-story portions of Group A and E assembly occupancies the roof-framing system of Type II A or Type III A construction may be of unprotected construction when such roof-
framing system is open to the assembly area and does not contain concealed spaces.
c. In all occupancies, heavy timber complying with Section 2304.11 shall be allowed for roof construction, including primary structural frame members, where a 1-hour or less
fire-resistance rating is required.
d. Not less than the fire-resistance rating required by other sections of this code.
e. Not less than the fire-resistance rating based on fire separation distance (see Table 705.5).
f. Not less than the fire-resistance rating as referenced in Section 704.9.
g. Heavy timber bearing walls supporting more than two floors or more than a floor and a roof shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.|601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall control the classification of buildings as to type of construction.
SECTION 602—CONSTRUCTION CLASSIFICATION
602.1 General. Buildings and structures erected or to be erected, altered or extended in height or area shall be classified in one of the five construction types defined in Sections 602.2 through 602.5. The building elements shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified in Table 601 and exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified in Table 705.5. Where required to have a fire-resistance rating by Table 601, building elements shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 703.2.
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TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
The protection of openings, ducts and air transfer openings in building elements shall not be required unless required by other provisions of this code.
Exception: Noncombustible structural members supporting solar photovoltaic panels are not required to meet the fire resistance rating for the following: 1. Photovoltaic panel supported by a structure and having no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath including storage. 2. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by noncombustible framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and unob- structed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as determined by the enforcing agency. 3. Solar photovoltaic panels supported by a structure over parking stalls where the panels constitute the roof and all the following conditions are met (see Figure 5-1): 3.1. The area within the perimeter of the solar photovoltaic array has maximum rectangular dimension of 40 feet by 150 feet.
California Building Code High relevance — show source text
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
Chapter 3 Building Planning.
Chapter 3 provides guidelines for a minimum level of structural integrity, life safety, fire safety and livability for inhabitants of dwelling units regulated by this code. Chapter 3 is a compilation of the code requirements specific to the building planning sector of the design and construction process. This chapter sets forth code requirements dealing with light, ventilation, sanitation, minimum room size, ceiling height and environmental comfort. Chapter 3 establishes life-safety provisions including limitations on glazing used in hazardous areas, specifications on stairways, use of guards at elevated surfaces, window and fall protection, and rules for means of egress. Snow, wind and seismic design live and dead loads and flood-resistant construction, as well as solar energy systems are addressed in this chapter.
Chapter 4 Foundations.
Chapter 4 provides the requirements for the design and construction of foundation systems for buildings regulated by this code. Provisions for seismic load, flood load and frost protection are contained in this chapter. A foundation system consists of two interdependent components: the foundation structure itself and the supporting soil.
The prescriptive provisions of this chapter provide requirements for constructing footings and walls for foundations of wood, masonry, concrete and precast concrete. In addition to a foundation’s ability to support the required design loads, this chapter addresses several other factors that can affect foundation performance. These include controlling surface water and subsurface drainage, requiring soil tests where conditions warrant and evaluating proximity to slopes and minimum depth requirements. The chapter also provides requirements to minimize adverse effects of moisture, decay and pests in basements and crawl spaces.
Chapter 5 Floors.
Chapter 5 provides the requirements for the design and construction of floor systems that will be capable of supporting minimum required design loads. This chapter covers four different types: wood floor framing, wood floors on the ground, cold-formed steel floor framing and concrete slabs on the ground. Allowable span tables are provided that greatly simplify the determination of joist, girder and sheathing sizes for raised floor systems of wood framing and cold-formed steel framing. This chapter also contains prescriptive requirements for wood-framed exterior decks and their attachment to the main building.
Chapter 6 Wall Construction.
Chapter 6 contains provisions that regulate the design and construction of walls. The wall construction covered in Chapter 6 consists of five different types: wood framed, cold-formed steel framed, masonry, concrete and structural insulated panel (SIP). The primary concern of this chapter is the structural integrity of wall construction and transfer of all imposed loads to the supporting structure. This chapter provides the requirements for the design and construction of wall systems that are capable of supporting the minimum design vertical loads (dead, live and snow loads) and lateral loads (wind or seismic loads). This chapter contains the prescriptive requirements for wall bracing and/or shear walls to resist t
CBC § 509.1 High relevance — show source text
Unique consideration is taken for special use areas, such as covered mall buildings, motor-vehicle-related occupancies, special amusement buildings and aircraftrelated occupancies. Special facilities within other occupancies are considered, such as stages and platforms, motion picture projection rooms, children’s play structures and storm shelters. Finally, in order that the overall package of protection features can be easily understood, unique considerations for specific occupancies are also addressed.
Chapter 5 General Building Heights and Areas.
Chapter 5 contains the provisions that regulate the minimum type of construction for area limits and height limits based on the occupancy of the building. Height and area increases are permitted based on open frontage for fire department access, separation and the type of sprinkler protection provided (Sections 503 through 506, 510). Provisions include the protection and/or separation of incidental uses (Table 509.1), accessory occupancies (Section 508.2) and mixed uses in the same building (Sections 506.2.2, 508.3, 508.4 and 510). Unlimited area buildings are permitted in certain occupancies when they meet special provisions (Section 507). Live/work units are provided for in Section 508.5.
Tables 504.3, 504.4 and 506.2 are the keystones in setting thresholds for building size based on the building’s use and the materials with which it is constructed. Respective to each group classification, the greater the fire-resistance rating of structural elements, as represented by the type of construction, the greater the floor area and height allowances. The greater the potential fire hazards indicated as a function of the group, the lesser the height and area allowances for a particular construction type.
Chapter 6 Types of Construction.
The interdependence of fire safety considerations can be seen by looking at Tables 601 and 705.5, which show the fire-resistance ratings of the principal structural elements comprising a building in relation to the five classifications for types of construction. Type I construction generally requires the highest fire-resistance ratings for structural elements, whereas Type V construction generally requires the least amount of fire-resistance-rated structural elements. The greater the potential fire hazards indicated as a function of the group, the lesser the height and area allowances for a particular construction type. Section 603 includes a list of combustible elements that can be part of a noncombustible building (Types I and II construction).
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Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features.
Chapter 7 provisions present the fundamental concepts of fire performance that all buildings are expected to achieve in some form. This chapter identifies the acceptable materials, techniques and methods by which proposed construction can be designed and evaluated against to determine a building’s ability to limit the impact of fire.
Chapter 7A Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Wildfire Exposure.
Requirements for Wildland-Urban Interface Areas are now located in Part 7 of Title 24, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code. The provisions of Part 7, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, shall apply to buildings and structures located in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) or Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
Chapter 8 Interior Finishes.
Chapter 8 contains the performance requirements for controlling fire growth within buildings by restricting interior finish and decorative materials. The provisions of Chapter 8 require materials used as interior finishes and decorations to meet certain flame-spread index or flame-propagation criteria based on the relative fire hazard associated with the occupancy.
Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems.
CBC § 2303.1.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
2303.1.3.1 Additional requirements. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC and OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] The construction documents shall indicate the following: 1. Dry or wet service conditions. 2. Laminating combinations and stress requirements. 3. Species group. 4. Preservative material and retention, when preservative treatment is required. 5. Provisions for protection during shipping and field handling, such as sealing and wrapping in accordance with AITC 111.
When mechanical reinforcement such as radial tension reinforcement is required, such reinforcement shall comply with AITC 404 and shall be detailed accordingly in the construction documents. Construction documents shall specify that the moisture content of laminations at the time of manufacture shall not exceed 12 percent for dry conditions of use.
The design of fasteners and connections shall comply with AITC 117, Section I, Item 6 (Connection Design), and NDS Appendix E.
2303.1.4 Cross-laminated timber. Cross-laminated timbers shall be manufactured and identified in accordance with ANSI/APA PRG 320.
2303.1.4.1 Additional requirements. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC & OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Requirements in Section 2303.1.3.1 shall apply to cross-laminated timber.
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WOOD
2303.1.5 Wood structural panels. Wood structural panels, where used structurally (including those used for siding, roof and wall sheathing, subflooring, diaphragms and built-up members), shall conform to the requirements for their type in DOC PS 1, DOC PS 2 or ANSI/APA PRP 210. Each panel or member shall be identified for grade, bond classification, and Performance Category by the trademarks of an approved testing and grading agency. The Performance Category value shall be used as the “nominal panel thickness” or “panel thickness” whenever referenced in this code. Wood structural panel components shall be designed and fabricated in accordance with the applicable standards listed in Section 2306.1 and identified by the trademarks of an approved testing and inspection agency indicating conformance to the applicable standard. In addition, wood structural panels where permanently exposed in outdoor applications shall be of exterior type, except that wood structural panel roof sheathing exposed to the outdoors on the underside is permitted to be Exposure 1 type.
2303.1.6 Fiberboard. Fiberboard for its various uses shall conform to ASTM C208. Fiberboard sheathing, where used structurally, shall be identified by an approved agency as conforming to ASTM C208.
2303.1.6.1 Jointing. To ensure tight-fitting assemblies, edges shall be manufactured with square, shiplapped, beveled, tongue-and-groove or U-shaped joints.
2303.1.6.2 Roof insulation. Where used as roof insulation in all types of construction, fiberboard shall be protected with an approved roof covering.
CBC § 602.1 Medium relevance — show source text
602.1 General. Buildings and structures erected or to be erected, altered or extended in height or area shall be classified in one of the five construction types defined in Sections 602.2 through 602.5. The building elements shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified in Table 601 and exterior walls shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified in Table 705.5. Where required to have a fire-resistance rating by Table 601, building elements shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 703.2.
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The protection of openings, ducts and air transfer openings in building elements shall not be required unless required by other provisions of this code.
Exception: Noncombustible structural members supporting solar photovoltaic panels are not required to meet the fire resistance rating for the following: 1. Photovoltaic panel supported by a structure and having no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath including storage. 2. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by noncombustible framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and unob- structed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as determined by the enforcing agency. 3. Solar photovoltaic panels supported by a structure over parking stalls where the panels constitute the roof and all the following conditions are met (see Figure 5-1): 3.1. The area within the perimeter of the solar photovoltaic array has maximum rectangular dimension of 40 feet by 150 feet.
3.2. The distance between solar photovoltaic array structures is a minimum of 10 feet clear. 3.3. The driveway aisle separating solar photovoltaic array structures has a minimum width of 25 feet clear. 3.4. Solar photovoltaic array structure is used only for parking purposes with no storage. 3.5. Completely open on all sides (other than necessary structural supports) with no interior partitions.
602.1.1 Minimum requirements. A building or portion thereof shall not be required to conform to the details of a type of construction higher than that type which meets the minimum requirements based on occupancy even though certain features of such a building actually conform to a higher type of construction.
602.2 Types I and II. Types I and II construction are those types of construction in which the building elements specified in Table 601 are of noncombustible materials, except as permitted in Section 603 and elsewhere in this code.
602.3 Type III. Type III construction is that type of construction in which the exterior walls are of noncombustible materials and the interior building elements are of any material permitted by this code. Fire-retardant-treated wood framing and sheathing complying with Section 2303.2 shall be permitted within exterior wall assemblies of a 2-hour rating or less.
602.4 Type IV. Type IV construction is that type of construction in which the building elements are mass timber or noncombustible materials and have fire-resistance ratings in accordance with Table 601. Mass timber elements shall meet the fire-resistance-rating requirements of this section based on either the fire-resistance rating of the noncombustible protection, the mass timber, or a combination of both and shall be determined in accordance with Section 703.2.
CBC § 4.1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
4.1.5||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |602.4.2.5||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |602.4.3.5||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |602.4.4.3||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |603.1||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |603.1.3||||X|X||||||||||||||||||||
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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6 TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 6 establishes five types of construction in which each building must be categorized. This chapter looks at the materials used in the building (combustible or noncombustible) and the extent to which building elements such as the building frame, roof, wall and floor can resist fire. Depending on the type of construction and the specific building element, fire resistance of 1 to 3 hours is specified.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections in this chapter will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 601—GENERAL
TABLE 601—FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING ELEMENTS (HOURS) Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 Col11 Col12 Col13 BUILDING ELEMENT TYPE I TYPE I TYPE II TYPE II TYPE III TYPE III TYPE IV TYPE IV TYPE IV TYPE IV TYPE V TYPE V BUILDING ELEMENT A B A B A B A B C HT A B Primary structural framef
(see Section 202)3a, b 2a, b, c 1b, c 0c 1b, c 0 3a 2a 2a HT 1b, c 0 Bearing walls Exteriore, f 3 2 1 0 2 2 3 2 2 2 1 0 Interior 3a 2a 1 0 1 0 3 2 2 1/HTg 1 0 Nonbearing walls and partitions
ExteriorSee Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705.5 See Table 705. CBC § 1505.3 Medium relevance — show source text
- Class A roof assemblies include slate installed over ASTM D226, Type II or ASTM D4869, Type IV underlayment over combustible decks.
[BF] 1505.3 Class B roof assemblies. Class B roof assemblies are those that are effective against moderate fire-test exposure. Class B roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be listed and identified as Class B by an approved testing agency.
[BF] 1505.4 Class C roof assemblies. Class C roof assemblies are those that are effective against light fire-test exposure. Class C roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be listed and identified as Class C by an approved testing agency.
[BF] 1505.5 Nonclassified roofing. Nonclassified roofing is approved material that is not listed as a Class A, B or C roof covering assembly or roof covering.
[BF] 1505.6 Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and shakes. Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles are wood shakes and shingles complying with UBC Standard 15-3 or 15-4 which are impregnated by the full-cell vacuum-pressure process with fire-retar- dant chemicals, and which have been qualified by UBC Standard 15-2 or ASTM E108 or UL 790 for use on Class A, B or C roofs.
Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles shall comply with ICC-ES EG107 and with the weathering requirements contained in Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7(j). Each bundle shall bear labels from an ICC accredited quality control agency identifying their roof-covering classification and indicating their compliance with ICC-ES EG107 and with the weathering requirements contained in Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7(j).
Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7(j). No wood roof covering materials shall be sold or applied in this state unless both of the following conditions are met: (1) The materials have been approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal as complying with the requirements of this section. (2) The materials have passed at least five years of the 10-year natural weathering test. The 10-year natural weathering test required by this subdivision shall be conducted in accordance with standard 15-2 of the 1994 edition of the Uniform Building Code at a testing facility recognized by the State Fire Marshal.
[BF] 1505.7 Special purpose roofs. Special purpose wood shingle or wood shake roofing shall conform to the grading and application requirements of Section 1507.8 or 1507.9. In addition, an underlayment of [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) Type X water-resistant gypsum backing board or gypsum sheathing shall be placed under minimum nominal [1] / 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) wood structural panel solid sheathing or 1-inch (25 mm) nominal spaced sheathing.
[BF] 1505.8 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. BIPV products installed as the roof covering shall be tested, listed and labeled for fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.1.
[BF] 1505.9 Rooftop mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Rooftop mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall be tested, listed and identified with a fire classification in accordance with UL 2703. Listed systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listing. The fire classification shall comply with Table 1505.1 based on the type of construction of the building.
CBC § 2411.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
2411.1.1 Structural Design. Structural design of thermal barrier mullions shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The allowable design stresses for thermal barrier materials composite with aluminum extrusions shall be determined by AAMA TIR-A8 testing for in-plane shear, tension and eccentric load at a minimum of ambient and high temperature using a factor of safety determined by AAMA TIR-A8 Section 6.7. 2. The shear modulus, G c , of the thermal barrier in similar composite aluminum extrusions shall be determined by AAMA TIR-A8 testing for flexure in AAMA TIR-A8 Section 7.2 at a minimum of ambient and high temperature. 3. The aluminum extrusions used to determine allowable stresses in the thermal barriers and the shear modulus, G c , shall be from a specific aluminum extrusion manufacturer and the aluminum sections used in the project. The similarity of the composite aluminum extrusions shall be subject to approval by the building official. 4. The effective moment of inertia of the in-plane composite thermal barrier-aluminum section used in flexural design, based upon the tested G c , shall not exceed 85 percent of the moment of inertia of the combined unbridged aluminum portions of the composite section, unless substantiated and approved by the building official. 5. A high temperature of not less than 120°F shall be used for composite section flexure design for wind pressure where the historical high temperature exceeds 100°F. The minimum high temperature for in-plane shear, tension and eccentric load thermal barrier design shall be determined by AAMA TIR-A8 Section 6.5. 6. The lowest allowable stress value and shear modulus, G c , from the ambient and high temperature testing shall be used for design. 7. Structural analysis and design for loads on pour and debridged thermal barriers with skip-debridging that has not been tested under AAMA TIR-A8 with skip-debridged test specimens for the specific actions or load direction shall be based upon the relative stiffness between the remaining aluminum bridge and the thermal barrier material and size. 8. Reactions on supporting thermal barrier mullions where the thermal barrier resists the concentrated load, the load shall not be assumed to be distributed over a length greater than 12 inches (305 mm) on the supporting mullion. 9. Mechanically locked, preformed thermal barriers shall be designed and used in pairs.
2411.1.2 Testing and Inspection. Testing and Inspection of thermal barrier mullions shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. Thermal barrier material properties shall be tested in accordance with AAMA TIR-A8 Section 6.1 by the manufacturer. All other testing shall done by an approved testing laboratory or agency. 2. Testing shall include AAMA TIR-A8 Section 7.2 for the flexural tests using the composite section under ambient and high temperature. Thermocouples shall be placed on the outside and interior surfaces and in the middle of the thermal barrier for high temperature testing. Test cycles shall be in accordance with AAMA TIR-A8 Section 7.2.3. 3. Testing shall include AAMA TIR-A8 Section 7.3 for in-plane shear, tension and eccentric load using the composite section under ambient and high temperature. 4. _The flexural test for the composite section shall include a span length of 12 feet (3660 mm).
CBC § 302.1 Medium relevance — show source text
J101.3 Construction type (top wing). The construction types shall be designated by assigning the appropriate Roman numeral, and letter, placed inside the top wing of the Maltese cross. The hourly rating provided is for the structural framing in accordance with Table 601 of the California Building Code .
CONSTRUCTION TYPE FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING
IA—Noncombustible 3 hours
IB—Noncombustible 2 hours
IIA—Noncombustible 1 hour
IIB—Noncombustible 0 hours
IIIA—Noncombustible/combustible 1 hour
IIIB—Noncombustible/combustible 0 hours
IV—Heavy timber (HT) HT
VA—Combustible 1 hour
VB—Combustible 0 hours
J101.4 Fire protection systems (right wing). The fire protection system shall be designated by determining its level of protection and assigning the appropriate designation to the right wing of the Maltese cross. Where multiple systems are provided, all shall be listed:
AS Automatic sprinkler system installed throughout
CES Chemical extinguishing system and designated area
CS Combination sprinkler and standpipe system
DS Dry sprinkler system and designated areas
FA Fire alarm system
FP Fire pump
FW Fire wall and designated areas
PAS Pre-action sprinkler system and designated floor
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APPENDIX J—BUILDING INFORMATION SIGN
PS Partial automatic sprinkler system, and designated floor
S Standpipe system
NS No system installed
J101.5 Occupancy type (bottom wing). The occupancy of a building or structure shall be designated in accordance with the occupancy classification found in Section 302.1 of the California Building Code and the corresponding designation shall be placed in the bottom wing of the Maltese cross. Where a building or structure contains a mixture of uses and occupancies, all uses and occupancies shall be identified.
A Assembly
B Business
E Educational
F Factory or Industrial
H High Hazard
I Institutional
M Mercantile
R Residential
J101.6 Hazards of content (left wing). The hazards of building contents shall be designated by one of the following classifications as defined in NFPA 13 and the appropriate designation shall be placed inside the left wing of the Maltese cross:
LH Light hazard
MH Moderate hazard
HH High hazard
J101.7 Tactical considerations (center circle). The center circle shall include the name of the local fire service and, where required, the letters “TC” for “tactical considerations.” Where firefighters conduct preplan operations, a unique situation(s) for tactical considerations shall be identified and the information provided to the fire dispatch communications center to further assist firefighters in identifying that there is special consideration(s) for this occupancy. Special consideration designations include, but are not limited
to:
CBC § 602.4.1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt entire chapter X X X X X X X X X X Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section Table 601 X 602.1 X Table 602 X 602.4.1.5 X X 602.4.2.5 X X 602.4.3.5 X X 602.4.4.3 X X 603.1 X X 603.1.3 X X 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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6 TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 6 establishes five types of construction in which each building must be categorized. This chapter looks at the materials used in the building (combustible or noncombustible) and the extent to which building elements such as the building frame, roof, wall and floor can resist fire. Depending on the type of construction and the specific building element, fire resistance of 1 to 3 hours is specified.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections in this chapter will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 601—GENERAL
CBC § 13143.5 Medium relevance — show source text
A city, county, city and county,_ including a charter city or charter county may pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13143.5, or a fire protection district may pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7, adopt standards more stringent than those adopted by the state fire marshal that are reasonably necessary to accommodate local climate, geological or topographical conditions relating to roof coverings for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly.
Exception: Local regulations relating to roof coverings in facilities licensed as a residential care facility for the elderly (RCFE) per Health and Safety Code Section 13133.
435.3 Building height and area provisions.
435.3.1 Group R-2.1, R-3.1 and R-4 shall be constructed in accordance with Table 504.3.
435.3.2 Limitations six or less clients. Group R-3.1 occupancies where nonambulatory clients are housed above the first story, having more than two stories in height or having more than 3,000 square feet (279 m [2] ) of floor area above the first story shall not be of less than one-hour fire-resistance-rated construction throughout.
In Group R3.1 occupancies housing a bedridden client, the client sleeping room shall not be located above or below the first story.
Exception: Clients who become bedridden as a result of a temporary illness as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 1566.45, 1568.0832 and 1569.72. A temporary illness is an illness, which persists for 14 days or less. A bedridden client may be retained in excess of the 14 days upon approval by the Department of Social Services and may continue to be housed on any story in a Group R-3.1 occupancy classified as a licensed residential facility.
Every licensee admitting or retaining a bedridden resident shall, within 48 hours of the resident’s admission or retention in the facility, notify the local fire authority with jurisdiction of the estimated length of time the resident will retain his or her bedridden status in the facility.
435.3.3 Limitations seven or more clients. Group R-4 occupancies where nonambulatory clients are housed above the first story and there is more than 3,000 square feet (279 m [2] ) of floor area above the first story or housing not more than 16 clients above the first story shall be constructed of not less than one-hour fire-resistance-rated construction throughout.
435.3.4 Nonambulatory elderly clients. Group R-4 occupancies housing nonambulatory elderly clients shall be of not less than one- hour fire-resistance-rated construction throughout.
435.4 Type of construction provisions.
435.4.1 Group R-2.1, occupancies are not permitted in nonfire-resistance-rated construction, see Health and Safety Code Section 13131.5.
435.5 Fire-resistance-rated construction provisions.
435.5.1 Smoke barriers required. Group R-2.1 and R-4 occupancies licensed as a Residential Care Facility (RCF) with individual floor areas over 6,000 square feet (557 m [2] ) per floor, shall be provided with smoke barriers, constructed in accordance with Section 709.
CBC § 3113.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Manufacturer’s name and address.
Date of manufacture.
Serial number of module.
Manufacturer’s design drawings.
Type of construction in accordance with Section 602.
Design loads including: roof live load, roof snow load, floor live load, wind load and seismic site class, use group and design category.
Additional building planning and structural design data.
Site-built structure or appurtenance attached to the relocatable building.
3113.3 Manufacturer’s data plate. Each relocatable module shall have a data plate that is permanently attached on or adjacent to the electrical panel, and shall include the following information:
Occupancy group.
Manufacturer’s name and address.
Date of manufacture.
Serial number of module.
Design roof live load, design floor live load, snow load, wind and seismic design.
Approved quality assurance agency or approved inspection agency.
Codes and standards of construction.
Envelope thermal resistance values.
Electrical service size.
Fuel-burning equipment and size.
Special limitations if any.
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] Each relocatable module shall have two metal identification labels permanently attached to the structure as enforced by the enforcement agency.
3113.4 Inspection agencies. The building official is authorized to accept reports of inspections conducted by approved inspection agencies during off-site construction of the relocatable building, and to satisfy the applicable requirements of Sections 110.3 through 110.3.12.1.
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] Each relocatable module shall be inspected during construction and installation at the project site by project inspectors acceptable to the enforcement agency in accordance with Part 1, California Administrative Code, Title 24, CCR.
SECTION 3114—INTERMODAL SHIPPING CONTAINERS
[OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.
3114.1 General. The provisions of Section 3114and other applicable sections of this code shall apply to intermodal shipping containers that are repurposed for use as buildings or structures, or as a part of buildings or structures.
Exceptions: [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Not permitted by DSA.
Intermodal shipping containers previously approved as existing relocatable buildings complying with Chapter 14 of the California Existing Building Code.
Stationary storage battery arrays located in intermodal shipping containers complying with Chapter 12 of the California Fire Code.
Intermodal shipping containers that are listed as equipment complying with the standard for equipment, such as air chillers, engine generators, modular data centers, and other similar equipment.
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SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION
- Intermodal shipping containers housing or supporting experimental equipment are exempt from the requirements of Section 3114, provided that they comply with all of the following: 4.1. Such units shall be single stand-alone units supported at grade level and used only for occupancies as specified under Risk Category I in Table 1604.5. 4.2. Such units are located a minimum of 8 feet (2438 mm) from adjacent structures, and are not connected to a fuel gas system or fuel gas utility. 4.3.
CBC § 1616.2.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Demolition 3303 Design Flood 1612 Design Strength Column splice 1616.2.2.1 Conformance to standards 1706.1
New materials 1706.2 Designated Seismic System 1704.3.2, 1704.4, 1704.5 Seismic certification 1705.14.3
Special inspection 1705.13.4 Detached Single-family Dwelling 202 Detectable Warning 202 Diaphragms 202 Analysis 1604.4 Ceilings 2508.6
Penetrations 714
Permit application 105.1 Relocation 107.2.8
Retention 107.5
Review 107.3
Roof assemblies 1503
Roof live load 1603.1.2
Roof rain load data 1603.1.9
Roof snow load 1603.1.3
Seismic 1603.1.5, 1705.14.2, 1705.14.3 Site plan 107.2.6 Special loads 1603.1.8 Temporary structures 3103.2 Wind data 1603.1.4 Construction Types 202, Chapter 6 Aircraft-related occupancies 412.2.1, Table 412.3.6, 412.5.2 Classification 602 Combustible material in Type I and Type II construction 603, 805 Covered and open mall buildings 402.4.1 Fire district D102.2.3
Fire resistance Table 601, Table 705.5 High-rise 403.2 Type I Table 601, 602.2, 603 Type II Table 601, 602.2, 603 Type III Table 601, 602.3 Type IV Table 601, 602.4 Type V Table 601, 602.5 Underground buildings 405.2 Continuity Head-Of-Wall System 202 Continuous Insulation (ci) 202 Contractor’s Responsibilities 901.5, 1704.4 Control Area 414.2, 707.3.8 Construction 414.2.1
Fire-resistance rating 414.2.4 Maximum allowed quantities 414.2.2 Number 414.2.3 Conventional Light-frame Construction 2302.1, 2308 Additional seismic requirements 2308 Braced wall lines 2308.10 Design of elements 2308.8 Floor joists 2308.8.2 Foundation plates or sills 2308.7 Girders 2308.8.1 Roof and ceiling framing 2308.11 Wall framing 2308.9 Conveying System S3004 Cornices
Definition 202 Draftstopping 718.2.6 Live load Table 1607.1
Masonry 2104.1.2 Projection 705.2, 705.2.3.1 Public right-of-way encroachments 3202.3.2, 3202.3.3 Correctional Treatment Centers
[OSHPD 4] 1227 Application 1227.2 Ceiling heights 1227.8 Corridors 1227.5
CBC § 4.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
TABLE 4.3.1—SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS Col2 Col3 TYPE OF MASONRY SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF MASONRY SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF GROUT Concrete masonry 2,000 psi (13.79 MPa) ≤ f'm ≤ 3,000 psi (20.68 MPa) f'g ≥ f'm ≤ 5,000 psi (34.47 MPa) Clay masonry 1,500 psi (10.34 MPa) ≤ f'm ≤ 4,500 psi (31.02 MPa) f'g≤ 6,000 (41.37 MPa) 2115.3 Construction.
2115.3.1 Masonry construction. Architectural cast stone construction shall be considered as an alternative system.
2115.3.2 Reinforced grouted masonry.
2115.3.2.1 TMS 602, Article 3.3 B Placing mortar and units. Modify TMS 602, Article 3.3 B.2.c as follows: c. Remove masonry protrusions extending greater than [1] / 4 inch ( 6.4 mm) into cells or cavities to be grouted.
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MASONRY
2115.3.2.2 TMS 602, Article 3.4 B Reinforcement. Modify TMS 602, Article 3.4 B.1 through Article 3.4 B.3 as follows:
- Support reinforcement to prevent displacement caused by construction loads or by placement of grout or mortar. Reinforcement and embedded items shall be clean, properly positioned and securely anchored against moving prior to grouting.
- Completely embed reinforcing bars and embedded items in grout in accordance with Article 3.5.
- Maintain clear distance between reinforcing bars and the interior of masonry unit or formed surface of at least [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) and a minimum of one bar diameter, except where cross webs of hollow units are used as supports for horizontal reinforcement.
2115.3.2.3 TMS 602, Article 3.4 E Anchor bolts. Replace TMS 602, Article 3.4 E.3 and add Articles 3.4 E.5 and 3.4 E.6 as follows: 3. Anchor bolts in the wythe or face shells of hollow masonry units shall be positioned to maintain a minimum of [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) of grout between the bolt circumference, the wythe or the face shell. For the portion of the bolt that is within the grouted cell, maintain a clear distance between the bolt and the face of masonry unit and between the head of the bolt and the formed surface of grout of at least [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) when using fine grout and at least [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) _when using coarse grout.
CBC § 602.2. Medium relevance — show source text
_ may have not more than 25 beds for the purpose of serving persons who are terminally ill. (C) A congregate living health facility not operated by a city and county serving persons who are catastrophically and severely disabled, as defined in subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1) that is located in a county of 500,000 or more persons may have not more than 12 beds for the purpose of serving persons who are catastrophically and severely disabled.
(5) A congregate living health facility shall have a noninstitutional, homelike environment.
CONGREGATE RESIDENCE. Any building or portion thereof that contains facilities for living, sleeping and sanitation, as required by this code, and may include facilities for eating and cooking, for occupancy by other than a family. A congregate residence may be a shelter, convent, monastery, dormitory, fraternity or sorority house, but does not include jails, hospitals, nursing homes, hotels or lodging houses.
[BG] CONGREGATE LIVING FACILITIES. A building or part thereof that contains sleeping units where residents share bathroom or kitchen facilities, or both.
[BE] CONSTANT LATCHING BOLT. Door-locking hardware installed on the inactive leaf of a pair of doors consisting of a bolt that automatically latches into the door frame or floor, holding the inactive leaf in a closed position. The latch bolt is retracted manually to allow the inactive leaf to be opened.
[F] CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. A designated location at a facility staffed by trained personnel on a continuous basis where alarm or supervisory signals are monitored and facilities are provided for notification of the fire department or other emergency services.
[A] CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. Written, graphic and pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing the design, location and physical characteristics of the elements of a project necessary for obtaining a building permit.
[BG] CONSTRUCTION TYPES. See Section 602.
Type I. See Section 602.2.
Type II. See Section 602.2.
Type III. See Section 602.3.
Type IV. See Section 602.4.
Type V. See Section 602.5.
[BF] CONTINUITY HEAD-OF-WALL SYSTEM. An assemblage of specific materials or products that are designed to resist the passage of fire through voids created at the intersection of fire barriers and the underside of roof assemblies that are not fire-resistance rated for a prescribed period of time.
[BF] CONTINUOUS INSULATION (ci). Insulating material that is continuous across all structural members without thermal bridges other than fasteners and service openings. It is installed on the interior or exterior or is integral to any opaque surface of the building thermal envelope.
[F] CONTROL AREA. Spaces within a building where quantities of hazardous materials not exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area are stored, dispensed, used or handled. See the definition of “Outdoor control area” in the California Fire Code .
CBC § 4.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1705 A .4.1 Glass unit masonry and masonry veneer in Risk Category II, III or IV. Special inspections and tests for glass unit masonry or masonry veneer designed in accordance with Section 2110 A or Chapter 14, respectively, where they are part of a structure classified as Risk Category II, III or IV shall be performed in accordance with TMS 602 Tables 3 and 4, Level 2.
1705A.4.1.1 TMS 602 Section 1.6 Quality Assurance. Replace footnote (d) in TMS 602 Table 4 as follows:
(d) Periodic special inspection is required for all veneer.
1705 A .4.2 Vertical masonry foundation elements. Special inspections and tests of vertical masonry foundation elements shall be performed in accordance with Section 1705 A .4.
1705 A .5 Wood construction. Special inspections of prefabricated wood structural elements and assemblies shall be in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.5 except as modified in this section . Special inspections of site-built assemblies shall be in accordance with this section.
1705 A .5.1 High-load diaphragms. High-load diaphragms designed in accordance with Section 2306.2 or 2307.1 shall be installed with special inspections as indicated in Section 1704 A .2. The special inspector shall inspect the wood structural panel sheathing to ascertain whether it is of the grade and thickness shown on the approved construction documents. Additionally, the special inspector must verify the nominal size of framing members at adjoining panel edges, the nail or staple diameter and length, the number of fastener lines and that the spacing between fasteners in each line and at edge margins agrees with the approved construction documents.
1705 A .5.2 Metal-plate-connected wood trusses spanning 60 feet or greater. Where a truss clear span is 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater, the special inspector shall verify that the temporary installation restraint/bracing and the permanent individual truss member restraint/bracing are installed in accordance with the approved truss submittal package.
1705 A .5.3 Mass timber construction. Special inspections of mass timber elements in Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction shall be in accordance with Table 1705 A .5.3.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
TABLE 1705A.5.3—REQUIRED SPECIAL INSPECTIONS OF MASS TIMBER CONSTRUCTION Col2 Col3 Col4 TYPE TYPE CONTINUOUS
SPECIAL
INSPECTIONPERIODIC
SPECIAL
INSPECTION1. Inspection of anchorage and connections of mass timber construction to timber deep foundation
systems.— X 2. Inspect erection of mass timber construction. — X 3. Inspection of connections where installation methods are required to meet design loads. _3.1. CBC § 1705.4.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1705.4.1 Glass unit masonry and masonry veneer in Risk Category IV. Special inspections and tests for glass unit masonry or masonry veneer designed in accordance with Section 2110 or Chapter 14, respectively, where they are part of a structure classified as Risk Category IV shall be performed in accordance with TMS 602 Level 2. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.
[OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Glass unit masonry and masonry veneer in Risk Category II, III or IV. Special inspections and tests for glass unit masonry or masonry veneer designed by Section 2110 or Chapter 14, respectively, in structures classified as Risk Category II, III or IV, shall be performed in accordance with TMS 602 Tables 3 and 4, Level 2 Quality Assurance.
1705.4.1.1 TMS 602 Section 1.6 Quality Assurance. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Replace footnote (d) as follows: (d) Periodic special inspection is required for all veneer.
1705.4.2 Vertical masonry foundation elements. Special inspections and tests of vertical masonry foundation elements shall be performed in accordance with Section 1705.4.
1705.5 Wood construction. Special inspections of prefabricated wood structural elements and assemblies shall be in accordance with Section 1704.2.5. Special inspections of site-built assemblies shall be in accordance with this section.
1705.5.1 High-load diaphragms. High-load diaphragms designed in accordance with Section 2306.2 shall be installed with special inspections as indicated in Section 1704.2. The special inspector shall inspect the wood structural panel sheathing to ascertain whether it is of the grade and thickness shown on the approved construction documents. Additionally, the special inspector must verify the nominal size of framing members at adjoining panel edges, the nail or staple diameter and length, the number of fastener lines and that the spacing between fasteners in each line and at edge margins agrees with the approved construction documents.
1705.5.2 Metal-plate-connected wood trusses spanning 60 feet or greater. Where a truss clear span is 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater, the special inspector shall verify that the temporary installation restraint/bracing and the permanent individual truss member restraint/bracing are installed in accordance with the approved truss submittal package.
1705.5.3 Mass timber construction. Special inspections of mass timber elements in Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction shall be in accordance with Table 1705.5.3.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
TABLE 1705.5.3—REQUIRED SPECIAL INSPECTIONS OF MASS TIMBER CONSTRUCTION Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 TYPE TYPE TYPE CONTINUOUS
SPECIAL INSPECTIONPERIODIC SPECIAL
INSPECTION1. Inspection of anchorage and connections of mass timber construction to timber deep
foundation systems.CBC § 602.2. Medium relevance — show source text
[F] CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. A designated location at a facility staffed by trained personnel on a continuous basis where alarm or supervisory signals are monitored and facilities are provided for notification of the fire department or other emergency services.
[A] CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. Written, graphic and pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing the design, location and physical characteristics of the elements of a project necessary for obtaining a building permit.
[BG] CONSTRUCTION TYPES. See Section 602.
Type I. See Section 602.2.
Type II. See Section 602.2.
Type III. See Section 602.3.
Type IV. See Section 602.4.
Type V. See Section 602.5.
[BF] CONTINUITY HEAD-OF-WALL SYSTEM. An assemblage of specific materials or products that are designed to resist the passage of fire through voids created at the intersection of fire barriers and the underside of roof assemblies that are not fire-resistance rated for a prescribed period of time.
[BF] CONTINUOUS INSULATION (ci). Insulating material that is continuous across all structural members without thermal bridges other than fasteners and service openings. It is installed on the interior or exterior or is integral to any opaque surface of the building thermal envelope.
[F] CONTROL AREA. Spaces within a building where quantities of hazardous materials not exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area are stored, dispensed, used or handled. See the definition of “Outdoor control area” in the California Fire Code .
CONTROL ROOM. A room that has staff that provides direct supervision of one or more cell tiers, pods, dormitories, housing units, sally ports, central holding areas, individual holding cells within central holding areas, as well as any number of courtroom holding cells and arraignment docks, and may have fire and personal alarm annunciation, ability to open and close doors, communicate with Central Control and monitor activities inside the area of control and the space immediately outside the Control Room’s zone of influence.
[BS] CONTROLLED LOW-STRENGTH MATERIAL. A self-compacted, cementitious material used primarily as a backfill in place of compacted fill.
[BS] CONVENTIONAL LIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION. Construction whose primary structural elements are formed by a system of repetitive wood-framing members. See Section 2308 for conventional light-frame construction provisions.
[BG] CORNICE. A projecting horizontal molded element located at or near the top of an architectural feature.
CORRECTIONAL HOSPITALS. Facilities that provide care and treatment for medical, psychiatric, obstetrical or surgical treatment of care recipients that are incapable of self-preservation within a detention facility such as a prison or jail.
CORRECTIONAL MEDICAL OR MENTAL HEALTH HOUSING SUITE. Within a state prison, correctional treatment facility, local detention facility or juvenile facility, a correctional medical or mental health housing suite shall be a group of patient rooms or cells and support spaces, including nurse stations, located around shared circulation.
CORRECTIONAL MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES. Facilities that provide care and treatment for psychiatric treatment of care recipients that are incapable of self-preservation within a detention facility such as a prison or jail.
CBC § 3313.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[F] 3313.2 Combustible building materials. When combustible building materials of the building under construction are delivered to a site, a minimum fire flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used to provide this fire flow supply shall be within 500 feet (152 m) of the combustible building materials, as measured along an approved fire apparatus access lane. Where the site configuration is such that one fire hydrant cannot be located within 500 feet (152 m) of all combustible building materials, additional fire hydrants shall be required to provide coverage in accordance with this section.
[F] 3313.3 Vertical construction of Types III, IV and V construction. Prior to commencement of vertical construction of Type III, IV or V buildings that utilize any combustible building materials, the fire flow required by Sections 3313.3.1 through 3313.3.3 shall be provided, accompanied by fire hydrants in sufficient quantity to deliver the required fire flow and proper coverage.
[F] 3313.3.1 Fire separation up to 30 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the
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SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION
water supply shall provide either a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or the entire fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.
[F] 3313.3.2 Fire separation of 30 feet up to 60 feet. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation distance of 30 feet (9144 mm) up to 60 feet (18 288 mm) from property lot lines, and an adjacent property has an existing structure or otherwise can be built on, the water supply shall provide a minimum of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m), or 50 percent of the fire flow required for the building when constructed, whichever is greater.
[F] 3313.3.3 Fire separation of 60 feet or greater. Where a building of Type III, IV or V construction has a fire separation of 60 feet (18 288 mm) or greater from a property lot line, a water supply of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided.
[F] 3313.4 Vertical construction, Types I and II construction. If combustible building materials are delivered to the construction site, water supply in accordance with Section 3313.2 shall be provided. Additional water supply for fire flow is not required prior to commencing vertical construction of Type I and II buildings.
[F] 3313.5 Standpipe supply. Regardless of the presence of combustible building materials, the construction type or the fire separation distance, where a standpipe is required in accordance with Section 3311, a water supply providing a minimum flow of 500 gallons per minute (1893 L/m) shall be provided. The fire hydrant used for this water supply shall be located within 100 feet (30 480 mm) of the fire department connection supplying the standpipe.
SECTION 3314—FIRE WATCH DURING CONSTRUCTION
CBC § 506.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
506.1.3 Basements. Basements need not be included in the total allowable floor area of a building provided the total area of such basements does not exceed the area permitted for a one-story above grade plane building.
506.2 Allowable area determination. The allowable area of a building shall be determined in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 506.2.1, 506.2.2 and 506.3.
TABLE 506.2—ALLOWABLE AREA FACTOR (A = NS, S1, S13R, S13D or SM, as applicable) IN SQUARE FEETa, b, j
tCol2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATIONSEE FOOTNOTES TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATIONSEE FOOTNOTES Type I Type I Type II Type II Type III Type III Type IV Type IV Type IV Type IV Type V Type V OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATIONSEE FOOTNOTES A B A B A B A B C HT A B A-1 NS UL UL 15,500 8,500 14,000 8,500 45,000 30,000 18,750 15,000 11,500 5,500 A-1 S1 UL UL 62,000 34,000 56,000 34,000 180,000 120,000 75,000 60,000 46,000 22,000 A-1 SM_ (without height increase)_ UL UL 46,500 25,500 42,000 25,500 135,000 90,000 56,250 45,000 34,500 16,500 A-1 SM (with height increase) UL UL 15,500 8,500 14,000 8,500 45,000 30,000 18,750 15,000 11,500 5,500 A-2 NS UL UL 15,500 9,500 14,000 9,500 45,000 30,000 18,750 15,000 11,500 6,000 A-2 S1 UL UL 62,000 38,000 56,000 38,000 180,000 120,000 75,000 60,000 46, CBC § 2103.5 Medium relevance — show source text
2103.5 Air entrainment. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Air-entraining materials or air-entraining admixtures shall not be used in grout.
2103.6 Specified compressive strength of masonry and grout . [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Replace TMS 402 Table 4.3.1 by the following:
TABLE 4.3.1—SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS Col2 Col3 TYPE OF MASONRY SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF MASONRY SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF GROUT Concrete masonry 2,000 psi (13.79 MPa) ≤ f'm ≤ 3,000 psi (20.68 MPa) f'g ≥ f'm ≤ 5,000 psi (34.47 MPa) Clay masonry 1,500 psi (10.34 MPa) ≤ f'm ≤ 4,500 psi (31.02 MPa) f'g≤ 6,000 (41.37 MPa) SECTION 2104—CONSTRUCTION
2104.1 Masonry construction. Masonry construction shall comply with the requirements of Sections 2104.1.1 and 2104.1.2 and with the requirements of either TMS 602 or TMS 604.
2104.1.1 Support on wood. Masonry shall not be supported on wood girders or other forms of wood construction except as permitted in Section 2304.13.
2104.1.2 Molded cornices. Unless structural support and anchorage are provided to resist the overturning moment, the center of gravity of projecting masonry or molded cornices shall lie within the middle one-third of the supporting wall. Terra cotta and metal cornices shall be provided with a structural frame of approved noncombustible material anchored in an approved manner.
2104.2 Reinforced Grouted masonry. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5]
2104.2.1 TMS 602, Article 3.3 B Placing mortar and units. Modify TMS 602, Article 3.3 B.2.c as follows: c. Remove masonry protrusions extending greater than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) into cells or cavities to be grouted.
2104.2.2 TMS 602, Article 3.4 B Reinforcement. Modify TMS 602, Article 3.4 B.1 through Article 3.4 B.3 as follows:
- Support reinforcement to prevent displacement caused by construction loads or by placement of grout or mortar. Rein- forcement and embedded items shall be clean, properly positioned and securely anchored against movement prior to grouting. Bolts shall be accurately set with templates or by approved equivalent means and held in place to prevent dislo- cation during grouting.
- Completely embed reinforcing bars and embedded items in grout in accordance with Article 3.5.
CBC § 504.4 Medium relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
GENERAL BUILDING HEIGHTS AND AREAS
TABLE 504.4—ALLOWABLE NUMBER OF STORIES ABOVE GRADE PLANEa, b, n—continued Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATIONTYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATIONSee Footnotes Type I Type I Type II Type II Type III Type III Type IV Type IV Type IV Type IV Type V Type V OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATIONSee Footnotes A B A B A B A B C HT A B I-3 NSd, e NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP I-3 S_ (without area increase)_ UL 5 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP I-3 S (with area increase) UL 2 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP I-4_p_ NSd, g UL 5 3 2 3 2 3 3 3 3 1 1 I-4_p_ S_ (without area increase)_ UL 6 4 3 4 3 9 6 4 4 2 2 I-4_p_ _S (with area CBC § 19-10 Medium relevance — show source text
19-10 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CONCRETE
in height, intermediate horizontal reinforcing shall be provided at spacing not to exceed 2 feet (610 mm) on center. Minimum verti- cal reinforcing shall consist of No. 3 bars at 24 inches (610 mm) on center.
Where concrete foundation walls or curbs extend above the floor line and support wood-frame or light-steel exterior, bearing or shear walls, they shall be doweled to the foundation wall below with a minimum of No. 3 bars at 24 inches (610 mm) on center. Where the height of the wall above the floor line exceeds 18 inches (457 mm), the wall above and below the floor line shall meet the requirements of ACI 318 Section 11.6 and 11.7.
1909.3.2 ACI 318, Section 12.7.3. Add Section 12.7.3.4 to ACI 318 as follows:
12.7.3.4 – At least two No. 5 bars in diaphragms having two layers of reinforcement in both directions and one No. 5 bar in diaphragms having a single layer of reinforcement in both directions shall be provided around openings larger than 12 inches in any dimension in addition to the minimum reinforcement required by Section 12.6.
1909.3.3 ACI 318, Chapter 14. Plain concrete is not permitted.
1909.3.4 ACI 318, Section 18.10.6.5. Modify ACI 318, Section 18.10.6.5 by adding the following:
Where boundary members are not required by ACI 318 Section 18.10.6.2 or 18.10.6.3, minimum reinforcement parallel to the edges of all structural walls and the boundaries of all openings shall consist of twice the cross-sectional area of the minimum shear reinforce- ment required per lineal foot of wall. Horizontal extent of boundary element shall be per ACI 318 Section 18.10.6.4 (a), (b) and (c).
1909.3.5 ACI 318, Section 18.12.6. Add Section 18.12.6.2 to ACI 318 as follows:
Collector and boundary elements in topping slabs placed over precast floor and roof elements shall not be less than 3 inches (76 mm) or 6 d b thick, where d b is the diameter of the largest reinforcement in the topping slab.
1909.3.6 ACI 318, Table 21.2.2. Replace Table 21.2.2 as follows:
|TABLE 21.2.2 STRENGTH REDUCTION FACTOR φ FOR MOMENT, AXIAL FORCE,
Frequently asked questions
What determines whether a building is Type III vs Type V?
The CBC definitions in § 602 (and subparts) determine the classification: Type III requires noncombustible exterior walls with interior elements allowed to be combustible as permitted by the code; Type V is the combustible construction class (see § 602.3–§ 602.5 and Table 601 for the element ratings).
If part of my building uses noncombustible materials, do I have to call the whole building Type I or II?
No — § 602.1.1 explicitly says a building need not be required to conform to a higher type just because certain features conform to that higher type; the controlling type is the one required by occupancy and the tables.
Where do I find the exact hour ratings to design to?
Table 601 is the controlling table that lists the required fire‑resistance in hours (or HT for heavy timber) for each principal building element by construction type and subtype. Use Table 601 to pick the exact hourly requirements.
Does Type IV always mean “heavy timber” with no protection?
Type IV is mass timber or noncombustible elements and has specific rules. Mass timber elements can meet ratings either by their inherent mass timber properties or by noncombustible protection as specified; consult § 602.4 and related mass‑timber provisions for details.
Do construction types affect allowable building area and height?
Yes. Chapter 5 (height and area tables) ties allowable stories and area to the construction Type and subtype — picking a different Type (e.g., IIIA vs IIIB) changes allowable floor area and stories for many occupancies.
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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