CBC · California Building Code
How are additions regulated and integrated with the existing building?
If you add onto your building the addition itself is designed like new construction, but you must check how that addition changes the whole building (combined height, area, fire areas, flood exposure, energy, accessibility and risk category) — Chapter 11 and § 606.1 of the CEBC tell you what to evaluate and when the existing building must be upgraded.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
Additions to an existing building are treated as new construction for the new portion and must be integrated so the combined building does not violate the building code’s height, area, structural, fire‑safety, accessibility or energy requirements. The California Existing Building Code (CEBC) delegates additions to Chapter 11 and confirms that the provisions for additions apply where work is classified as an addition (§ 606.1). See § 1101.1 through § 1104 for the core Chapter 11 rules on how an addition must be integrated with the existing building.
Requirements in detail
Overall rule: Addition = new construction for the addition; check effect on the whole building
The addition itself must comply with the building code provisions adopted for new construction (the new portion is regulated like new work), but the existing building generally is not required to be fully upgraded except where the addition or Chapter 11 specifically requires it. The CEBC states that an addition “shall comply with the California Building Standards Codes as adopted for new construction” while noting limited exceptions in Chapter 11 (§ 1101.1).
The addition must not create or extend existing nonconformities related to accessibility, structural capacity, fire safety, means of egress, or building systems (mechanical, plumbing, electrical) (§ 1101.2).
Heights and areas (how the addition affects allowable size)
An addition may not increase the overall building height beyond what is permitted under Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings (§ 1102.1). If an addition would increase area beyond what Chapter 5 allows, that increase is not permitted unless the required fire separation (for example a compliant firewall) is provided so the addition can be treated as a separate building (§ 1102.2). Existing fire areas enlarged by the addition must comply with CBC Chapter 9 fire protection system requirements (§ 1102.3).
Note: Chapter 5 contains the numeric limits for height/area by occupancy and construction type; those numeric values were not included in the retrieved Chapter 11 excerpt, so you must consult CBC Chapter 5 (new‑construction rules) for the specific limits that apply to your project.
Structural interaction
- Structural elements added as part of an addition must conform to new‑construction detailing for new members and connections (the CEBC requires new structural members and connections to comply with CBC detailing where applicable). When the addition results in higher seismic or wind demands to existing elements, Chapter 11 and the CEBC provide evaluation rules and limited exceptions for when existing elements may remain unaltered (§ 1103 and CEBC exceptions). If the addition changes risk category, the affected portions may need to meet higher CBC requirements (§ 1101.3).
Flood hazard and foundations
- Additions in flood hazard areas are addressed specifically: horizontally connected additions that are not “substantial improvements” may avoid full new‑construction flood requirements provided they do not create or extend nonconformity and the lowest floor of the addition meets specified elevations; but if the addition (or combined work) constitutes a substantial improvement, then the existing building and the addition must comply with CBC Section 1612 (flood design) or CRC R306 as applicable (§ 1103.3). For vertical additions or when a new/replaced foundation is involved, CBC Section 1612 (or CRC R306) applies.
Energy
- Additions must comply with the California Energy Code (Part 6, Title 24) applicable provisions — Chapter 11 calls this out explicitly (§ 1104.1). Specific energy compliance paths, exceptions and thresholds are set in the Energy Code and depend on the size and nature of the addition.
Accessibility and other systems
- An addition cannot make the existing building less accessible or otherwise extend nonconformities with accessibility requirements; where an addition impacts an existing path of travel or facilities, follow the applicable accessibility provisions (the CEBC and CBC accessibility chapters provide the path‑of‑travel rules for additions/alterations).
Decision table — quick reference for common decision dimensions
| Decision factor | Trigger / value to evaluate | What to check | Code reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Is the work an “addition”? | Any extension/increase in floor area, stories or height | Classify work as an addition and apply Chapter 11 | § 606.1; § 1101.1 |
| Height limit | Any increase in building height | Verify combined building against CBC Chapter 5 height limits | § 1102.1 |
| Area limit | Any increase in building area | Verify combined area vs CBC Chapter 5 area limits; provide fire separation if needed | § 1102.2 |
| Fire protection | Addition enlarges an existing fire area | Ensure upgraded fire protection per CBC Chapter 9 | § 1102.3 |
| Flood‑hazard | Addition in flood zone or constitutes substantial improvement | Apply CBC §1612 or CRC R306 as applicable; special rules for horizontal vs vertical additions | § 1103.3 |
| Energy | Any conditioned addition | Comply with California Energy Code (Part 6) | § 1104.1 |
| Risk category change | Addition changes occupancy mix or increases risk | Determine risk category per CBC §1604.5.1 and follow Chapter 10 if occupancy change results | § 1101.3 |
Exceptions & special cases
Nonconforming supports for nonstructural components that serve the addition from within the existing building need not be upgraded to CBC § 1613 unless they are part of the addition’s life‑safety system or the addition is assigned Risk Category IV (exception in § 1101.2).
Flood rules include nuanced exceptions: a horizontally connected addition that is not structurally interconnected (or that does not make the project a “substantial improvement”) has different obligations than a vertically stacked addition. The CEBC lists the criteria and exceptions for when full flood‑resistant construction is required (§ 1103.3).
Where a compliant firewall (meeting the CBC firewall provisions) separates the addition from the existing building, the addition may be treated as a separate building for purposes of height and area limits (CEBC/IBC correlation in Chapter 13 commentary). The chapter explains that a firewall allows separate building treatment when it meets the referenced firewall section.
The CEBC notes certain agency adoption differences and exceptions for specific occupancy types and state agencies; always confirm whether a special adoption applies to your project (state agency exceptions are called out in the CEBC adoption matrix).
Common mistakes
Treating the addition in isolation and failing to evaluate the combined building: Chapter 11 requires checking the effect of the addition on the entire building’s height/area and systems — don’t forget the combined building calculation (§ 1101.1, § 1102.1–1102.2).
Assuming numeric height/area limits or fire separation details without consulting CBC Chapter 5 and CBC firewall provisions — Chapter 11 points you to Chapter 5 for those numeric limits. The CEBC excerpt does not include Chapter 5 numeric tables, so you must look up CBC Chapter 5 for the exact allowable values.
Overlooking flood and foundation rules: additions in flood zones and new or replaced foundations have extra triggers; misclassifying the addition as “not substantial” can be costly (§ 1103.3).
Forgetting system and life‑safety impacts to existing portions: smoke alarms and carbon‑monoxide detection may be required in the existing building when you add or alter space (CEBC Sections 307 and 308).
Neglecting energy and accessibility obligations: the addition must meet the Energy Code and must not worsen accessibility; accessibility path‑of‑travel requirements can be triggered by additions/alterations. Check Part 6 and Chapter 11A/11B as applicable.
Worked example — Stepwise application (concrete but non‑numeric)
Scenario: You have an existing non‑separated building and you plan a horizontal addition that increases the building’s enclosed floor area.
Confirm the work is an addition (CEBC definition — any increase in floor area/height/stories). That invokes Chapter 11 rules (start at § 606.1 → apply Chapter 11).
Treat the planned new portion as new construction and determine the combined building parameters (combined height and combined area). Chapter 11 requires the combined building to comply with CBC Chapter 5 height and area limits unless the addition is separated by an approved firewall (§ 1101.1; § 1102.1–1102.2). You must therefore compute combined area/height and then consult CBC Chapter 5 for the numeric limits applicable to your occupancy and construction type. (I cannot supply the Chapter 5 numeric tables here because they were not included in the retrieved text.)
If the combined building would exceed CBC Chapter 5 limits, you have two compliance options implied by Chapter 11:
- Provide the required fire separation (a compliant firewall) so the addition can be treated as a separate building (see the CEBC/IBC correlation on fire separation); or
- Reduce the addition size or change construction/occupancy so the combined building falls under the Chapter 5 limits.
Check side issues triggered by the addition:
- Fire protection: if the addition enlarges a fire area, upgrade fire protection per CBC Chapter 9 (§ 1102.3).
- Flood hazard: if the property is in a flood zone, determine whether the addition (alone or combined with other work) is a substantial improvement; if so, the existing building and addition must comply with CBC §1612 or CRC R306 (§ 1103.3).
- Energy: ensure the addition meets Part 6 (Energy Code) requirements (§ 1104.1).
- Accessibility and life‑safety: verify you are not creating or extending nonconformities (§ 1101.2) and that required smoke/CO alarms or accessibility path‑of‑travel elements are provided.
Obtain building official review and documentation showing how Chapter 11 and referenced CBC parts were applied (classification, combined area/height calculations, firewall details if used, and system upgrades). Chapter 11 is explicit that where an addition impacts the existing building the result shall not put the existing building out of compliance with the CBC as applicable (§ 1101.1).
Related provisions
- § 606.1 — Scope: Provisions for additions apply where work is classified as an addition.
- § 1101.1 — Additions must comply with new‑construction provisions for the addition; combined building must meet CBC height/area provisions.
- § 1101.2 — Additions shall not create or extend nonconformities (accessibility, structural, fire, egress, systems).
- § 1101.3 — Risk category assignment when occupancies differ.
- § 1102.1 — Height limitations for additions (must not increase beyond CBC Chapter 5 limits).
- § 1102.2 — Area limitations for additions and when fire separation permits separate‑building treatment.
- § 1102.3 — Fire protection system requirements when fire areas are increased by additions.
- § 1103.3 — Flood hazard requirements for additions (substantial improvement rules).
- § 1104.1 — Energy Code applicability to additions (Part 6, Title 24).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 501A.3 High relevance — show source text
501 A .2 Fire-resistance ratings. Fire-resistance ratings shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
501A.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to the following categories of existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this section.
501A.3.1 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980). Nonconforming buildings shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980), as used in this chapter, consists of the Uniform Building Code, 1979 (UBC 1979) along with requirements contained in: a) California Code of Regulations, Title 24- Building Standards, dated February 2, 1980 (Revision record for Register 80, No. 5). b) California Code of Regulations, Title 22 – Social Security, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41). c) California Code of Regulations, Title 17 – Public Health, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41-B). 2. All existing structural elements of Seismic Force Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements in the CBC 1980 or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent to that given in the CBC 1980, as determined by the building official. 3. A continuous load path or paths with adequate strength and stiffness to transfer all the forces from the point of origin to final point of resistance shall be justified by analysis. 4. Site data report in accordance with the CBC 1980 shall establish that seismically induced differential settlement does not exceed 1 ″ in 40 ′ .
5. Adjacent buildings shall satisfy the SPC building separation requirements in accordance with the California Administrative Code, Chapter 6 Section 3.4. 6. The addition of new structural elements or strengthening of existing structural elements for retrofit of nonconforming build- ings to SPC-4D shall comply with the following: a) The seismic demand (forces or displacements) shall be in accordance with the CBC 1980; b) Capacity, detailing and connections for new structural elements shall satisfy the requirements in the CBC 2025 for new construction; and c) The strengthening of existing structural elements shall use capacities determined in accordance with the CBC 2025 for new construction consistent with the detailing and connections used in the strengthened member. 7. All construction, quality assurance and quality control shall be in accordance with the new construction provisions of CBC 2025.
8. Elements not part of the Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS), including those identified in the California Administrative Code Chapter 6, Article 10, shall be evaluated using seismic forces and the requirements of the CBC 1980. 9. Any column or wall that forms part of two or more intersecting SFRS and is subjected to axial load due to seismic forces acting along either principal plan axis equaling or exceeding 20 percent of the axial design strength of the column or wall shall be _evaluated for the most critical load effect due to application of seismic force in any direction.
CBC § 101.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 101.5 Additions or alterations. Additions or alterations shall be permitted to be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all of the requirements of this code, provided that the addition or alteration conforms to that required for a new building or structure.
Exception: Provisions of this code that specifically apply to existing conditions are retroactive.
Additions or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure that will cause the existing building or structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code nor shall such additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate access in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits or access; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
[A] 101.6 Maintenance. Buildings, structures, landscape materials, vegetation, defensible space or other devices or safeguards required by this code shall be maintained in conformance to the code edition under which installed. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings, structures, landscape materials and vegetation.
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall govern. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
[A] 102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 7 and such codes and standards shall be considered as part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2.
[A] 102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall govern.
[A] 102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced standard.
[A] 102.5 Subjects not regulated by this code. Where applicable standards or requirements are not set forth in this code, or are contained within other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or policies adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable standards of other nationally recognized safety standards, as approved, shall be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the authority of the code official to determine compliance with codes or standards for those activities or installations within the code official’s jurisdiction or responsibility.
CBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 5A Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing build- ings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 6 Classification of Work.
Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method and defines the different classifications of work including alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in subsequent Chapters 7 through 11.
Chapter 7 Alterations—Level 1.
Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by only involving replacement of building components with new components with no reconfiguration of space.
Chapter 8 Alterations—Level 2.
A Level 2 alteration is an alteration involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building or addition of a new building system. Level 2 alterations also include the extension or addition of any system or equipment. The purpose of Chapter 8 is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, means of egress, fire protection, structural systems, energy efficiency, and other building systems include electrical, mechanical and plumbing when a building is being altered.
Chapter 9 Alterations—Level 3.
Chapter 9 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 3 alterations. Level 3 alterations are those involving alterations that cover 50 percent of the aggregate area of the building. Under certain situations, this chapter also intends to improve the safety of certain building features beyond the work area and in other parts of the building where no alteration work might be taking place.
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
CBC § 601.1.1 High relevance — show source text
601.1.1 Compliance with other alternatives. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing structures shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 through 11 or with one of the alternatives provided in Section 301.3.
601.2 Work area. The work area, as defined in Chapter 2, shall be identified on the construction documents.
SECTION 602—ALTERATION—LEVEL 1
602.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations include the removal and replacement or the covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials, elements, equipment or fixtures that serve the same purpose.
602.2 Application. Level 1 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.
SECTION 603—ALTERATION—LEVEL 2
603.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations include the addition or elimination of any door or window, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of any additional equipment, and shall apply where the work area is equal to or less than 50 percent of the building area.
Exception: The movement or addition of nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height shall not be considered a Level 2 alteration.
603.2 Application. Level 2 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7 for Level 1 alterations as well as the provisions of Chapter 8.
SECTION 604—ALTERATION—LEVEL 3
604.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations apply where the work area exceeds 50 percent of the building area.
604.2 Application. Level 3 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 and 8 for Level 1 and 2 alterations, respectively, as well as the provisions of Chapter 9.
SECTION 605—CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
605.1 Scope. Change of occupancy provisions apply where the activity is classified as a change of occupancy as defined in Chapter 2.
605.2 Application. Changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10.
SECTION 606—ADDITIONS
606.1 Scope. Provisions for additions shall apply where work is classified as an addition as defined in Chapter 2.
606.2 Application. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 11.
SECTION 607—HISTORIC BUILDINGS
607.1 Scope. The provisions of the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R) shall apply to qualified historical buildings or properties.
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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 7 – ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
CBC § 1.1.11. High relevance — show source text
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
Chapter 13 is not adopted by the State of California but may be available for adoption by local ordinance, see Section 1.1.11. See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.
Chapter 14 Relocated or Moved Buildings.
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
CBC § 1.1.3 High relevance — show source text
Members of the public with SB 9 complaints are encouraged to share them to the Housing Accountability Unit Portal. Please also see HCD’s SB 9 Fact Sheet.
Setbacks
Can setbacks be required for ADUs? Yes. A local agency may impose objective development standards, such as setbacks, for the creation of ADUs. A setback of no more than four feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an attached or detached ADU (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (d)(7)). Additional setback requirements may be required in the Coastal Zone if required by a local Coastal Program (Gov. Code, § 66329).
Are setbacks required for ADUs/JADUs created within an existing structure or replacing an existing structure? No setback shall be required for an ADU or JADU created within an existing living area or accessory structure or an ADU created in a new structure in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (d)(7)).
Can a local agency impose front setbacks? Yes. A local agency may apply front yard setbacks for ADUs, but front yard setbacks cannot preclude an ADU of at least 800 square feet from being built on the property, even if that ADU would exist partially or wholly within the front setback (Gov. Code, § 66321, subd. (b)(3)).
Can a local agency require an ADU be built in an alternate location to comply with front setback requirements? Maybe. Local agencies may set objective standards, including front setbacks. However, a permitting agency may not require that an ADU of up to 800 square feet be built in an alternative location based on discretionary, or non-objective, standards. Requiring an alternative site, using objective standards, to comply with front setback requirements must not be overly burdensome such that it unreasonably restricts the ability of homeowners to create ADUs in zones in which they are authorized by local ordinance. (Gov. Code, §§ 66321, subd. (b)(3); 66311.)
Is there a distance requirement between an ADU and other structures on the lot? State ADU Law does not address the distance between an ADU and other structures on a lot. A local agency may impose objective development standards for the creation of some ADUs, and all ADUs must comply with local building codes. However, development standards should not unreasonably restrict the creation of ADUs. (Gov. Code, § 66311.) Minimum distance or other requirements may not be applied if they would unreasonably restrict the creation of ADUs, unless they are a requirement of a Building or Fire Code (Gov. Code, § 66314, subd. (d)(8)).
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Size Requirements and Restrictions
How is the square footage of an ADU or JADU calculated? The CBC provides the minimum standards to which all buildings in California must be built (California Building Code, Vol. 2, 1.1.3). The CBC also allows local agencies to adopt amendments, additions, or deletions to the provisions of the CBC which are reasonably necessary and are more restrictive than the CBC’s standards (California Building Code, Vol. 2, 1.1.8).
CBC § 202.3. High relevance — show source text
- Residential dwelling units not required to be accessible in compliance with this code shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 202.3.
11B- 202.3.1 Prohibited reduction in access. An alteration that decreases or has the effect of decreasing the accessibility of a building or facility below the requirements for new construction at the time of the alteration is prohibited.
11B- 202.3.2 Extent of application. An alteration of an existing element, space or area of a building or facility shall not impose a requirement for accessibility greater than required for new construction.
11B-202.3.3 Alteration of single elements. If alterations of single elements, when considered together, amount to an alteration of a room or space in a building or facility, the entire room or space shall be made accessible.
11B- 202.4 Path of travel requirements in alterations, additions and structural repairs. When alterations or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, an accessible path of travel to the specific area of alteration or addition shall be provided. The primary accessible path of travel shall include:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
5. Signs.
Exceptions:
1. Residential dwelling units shall comply with Section 11B-233.3.4.2. 2. If the following elements of a path of travel have been constructed or altered in compliance with the accessibility require- ments of the immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code, it shall not be required to retrofit such elements to reflect the incremental changes in this code solely because of an alteration to an area served by those elements of the path of travel:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
5. Signs.
Note: The language in this exception, which refers to the “immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code,” shall permit a reference back to one CBC edition only and is not accumulative to prior editions. 3. Additions or alterations to meet accessibility requirements consisting of one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4: 1. Altering one building entrance. 2. Altering one existing toilet facility. 3. Altering existing elevators. 4. Altering existing steps. 5. Altering existing handrails. 4. Alterations solely for the purpose of barrier removal undertaken pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabil- _ities Act (Public Law 101-336, 28 C.F.R. Section 36.
CBC § 180.0 High relevance — show source text
AND REPAIRS TO EXISTING MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS
SECTION 180.0—GENERAL
Additions, alterations and repairs to existing attached dwelling units and common use areas in multifamily buildings, existing outdoor lighting for these occupancies, and internally and externally illuminated signs shall meet the requirements specified in Sections 100.0 through 110.10, 160.1, and 160.3 through 170.2 that are applicable to the building project, and either the performance compliance approach (energy budgets) in Section 180.1(b) (for additions) or 180.2(c) (for alterations), or the prescriptive compliance approach in Section 180.1(a) (for additions) or 180.2(b) (for alterations), for the climate zone in which the building is located. Climate zones are shown in Figure 100.1-A.
Covered process requirements for additions, alterations and repairs to existing multifamily buildings are specified in Section 141.1.
Nonresidential occupancies in mixed occupancy buildings shall comply with nonresidential requirements in Sections 120.0 through 141.1.
NOTE: For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 180.2 apply to the occupancy after the alterations.
NOTE: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8 and 25943, Public Resources Code .
SECTION 180.1—ADDITIONS
Additions to existing multifamily buildings shall meet the applicable requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.9; Sections 160.0, 160.1, and 160.2(c) and (d); Sections 160.3 through 160.7; and either Section 180.1(a) or 180.1(b).
Exception 2 to Section 180.1: Additions of 300 square feet or less are not required to comply with the roofing product requirements of Section 170.2(a)1A.
Exception 3 to Section 180.1: Existing inaccessible piping shall not require insulation as defined under Section 160.4(e).
Exception 4 to Section 180.1: Space-conditioning system. When heating or cooling will be extended to an addition from the existing system(s), the existing heating and cooling equipment need not comply with Part 6. The heating system capacity must be adequate to meet the minimum requirements of CBC Section 1204.1.
Exception 5 to Section 180.1: Space-conditioning system ducts. When any length of ducts are extended from an existing duct system to serve the addition, the existing duct system and the extended ducts shall meet the applicable requirements specified in Sections 180.2(b)2Ai and 180.2(b)2Aii.
Exception 6 to Section 180.1: Photovoltaic and BESS, as specified in Sections 170.2(f) through 170.2(h), are not required for additions.
Exception 7 to Section 180.1 : Dwelling unit space heating system. New or replacement space heating systems serving an addition may be a heat pump or gas heating system.
CBC § 101.7.1. High relevance — show source text
This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county governments to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to Section 101.7.1. The effective date of amendments, additions or deletions to this code for cities, counties, or cities and counties filed pursuant to Section 101.7.1 shall be the date on which it is filed. However, in no case shall the amendments, additions or deletions to this code be effective any sooner than the effective date of this code.
Local modifications shall comply with Health and Safety Code Section 18941.5(b) for Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17958.5 for State Housing Law or Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7 for Fire Protection Districts.
101.7.1 Findings and filings.
The city, county, or city and county shall make express findings for each amendment, addition or deletion based upon climatic, topographical or geological conditions. For the purpose of this section, climatic, topographical or geological conditions include local environmental conditions as established by the city, county, or city and county.
The city, county, or city and county shall file the amendments, additions or deletions expressly marked and identified as to the applicable findings. Cities, counties, cities and counties, and fire departments shall file the amendments, additions or deletions and the findings with the California Building Standards Commission at 2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95833.
Findings prepared by fire protection districts shall be ratified by the local city, county, or city and county and filed with the California Department of Housing and Community Development at 9342 Tech Center Drive, Suite 500, Sacramento, CA 95826.
The city, county, or city and county shall obtain California Energy Commission approval for any energy- related ordinances consistent with Public Resources Code Section 25402.1(h)(2) and Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106. Local governmental agencies may adopt and enforce energy standards for newly constructed buildings, additions, alterations and repairs, provided the California Energy Commission finds that the standards will require buildings to be designed to consume no more energy than permitted by Part 6. Such local standards include, but are not limited to, adopting the requirements of Part 6 before their effective date, requiring additional energy conservation measures, or setting more stringent energy budgets.
101.8 Alternate materials, designs and methods of construction. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use of any alternate material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, method, design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. An alternate shall be approved on a case-by-case basis where the enforcing agency finds that the proposed alternate is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code and is at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code in planning and design, energy, water, material conservation and resource efficiency, environmental air quality, performance, safety and the protection of life and health. Consideration and compliance provisions for occupancies regulated by adopting state agencies are found in the sections listed below.
- Section 1.2.3 in the California Building Code (CBC) for the California Building Standards Commission.
- Section 104.2.3 in the California Building Code (CBC) for the Division of the State Architect.
CBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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5 A PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing buildings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers [applications listed in Section 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1)].
SECTION 501 A —GENERAL
501 A .1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing buildings and structures. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing structures for applications listed in Section 1.10.1 [OSHPD 1] regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
501 A .1.1 Compliance with other methods. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this chapter or with one of the methods or procedures provided in Section 301 A .3.
501 A .2 Fire-resistance ratings. Fire-resistance ratings shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
501A.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to the following categories of existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this section.
501A.3.1 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980). Nonconforming buildings shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980), as used in this chapter, consists of the Uniform Building Code, 1979 (UBC 1979) along with requirements contained in: a) California Code of Regulations, Title 24- Building Standards, dated February 2, 1980 (Revision record for Register 80, No. 5). b) California Code of Regulations, Title 22 – Social Security, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41). c) California Code of Regulations, Title 17 – Public Health, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41-B). 2. All existing structural elements of Seismic Force Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements in the CBC 1980 or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent to that given in the CBC 1980, as determined by the building official. 3. A continuous load path or paths with adequate strength and stiffness to transfer all the forces from the point of origin to final point of resistance shall be justified by analysis. _4.
CBC § 3-3 High relevance — show source text
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code . This exception shall not apply to the following:
Alterations for accessibility required by the California Building Code, Chapter 11A.
Alterations that constitute substantial improvement in flood hazard areas, which shall comply with Sections 503.2, 701.3 or 1303.1.3.
Structural provisions of Section 304, Chapter 5 or to the structural provisions of Sections 706, 805 and 906.
301.3.1 Prescriptive compliance. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 of this code in buildings complying with the California Fire Code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
Exception: Hospital buildings removed from acute care service, skilled nursing facilities, intermediate-care facilities, correctional treatment centers and acute psychiatric hospitals [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5]. The provisions of adopted sections in Chapters 3 through 5 shall control the alteration, repair and change of occupancy or function of existing structures for applications listed in Section 1.10.1, 1.10.2, 1.10.4 and 1.10.5 regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD). Refer to Chapter 3A for services, systems and utilities that serve OSHPD 1 buildings.
301.3.2 Work area compliance method. A lterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with the applicable requirements of Chapters 6 through 12 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301.3.3 Performance compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 13 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
Note: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] The provisions contained in Chapter 13 are not adopted by HCD, but may be available for adoption by a local ordinance. (See Section 1.1.11.)
301.4 Relocated or moved buildings. Relocated or moved buildings shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 14.
SECTION 302—GENERAL PROVISIONS
302.1 Dangerous conditions. The code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.
302.1.1 Dangerous conditions. [BSC] Regardless of the extent of structural or nonstructural damage, the code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.
302.2 Additional codes. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in this code and the California Energy Code, California Fire Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code, California Residential Code and California Electrical Code . Where provisions of the other codes conflict with provisions of this code, the provisions of this code shall take precedence.
CBC § 25218.5 High relevance — show source text
(d) Alternate method of compliance. Any addition, alteration or repair may comply with the requirements of Title 24, Part 6 by meeting the applicable requirements for the entire building.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8, 25910, and 25943, Public Resources Code .
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NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES— ADDITIONS, ALTERATIONS AND REPAIRS
SECTION 141.1—REQUIREMENTS FOR COVERED PROCESSES IN ADDITIONS, ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL BUILDINGS
Covered processes in additions or alterations to existing buildings that will be nonresidential and hotel/motel occupancies shall comply with the applicable Subsections of Section 120.6 and 140.9.
(a) Lab and Process Facility Exhaust Systems. Additions and alterations to existing laboratories and factories shall meet the requirements of Section 140.9(c).
(b) Computer Rooms. All newly installed computer room cooling systems and uninterruptible power supply systems in additions/alterations shall meet the requirements of Sections 120.6(j), 140.9(a)2 and 140.9(a)4 and comply with Item 1 below.
- Economizers. Each individual cooling system primarily serving computer rooms in an existing building shall include either: A. An integrated air economizer capable of partial cooling when additional mechanical cooling is required and capable of providing 100 percent of the expected system cooling load up to 80°F room supply air temperature at outside air temperatures of 55°F dry-bulb and below or 50°F wet-bulb and below, and be equipped with a fault detection and diagnostic system as specified by Section 120.2(i); or B. An integrated water economizer capable of partial cooling when additional mechanical cooling is required and capable of providing 100 percent of the expected system cooling load up to 80°F room supply air temperature at outside air temperatures of 40°F dry-bulb and below or 35°F wet-bulb and below. Exception 1 to Section 141.1(b)1: Individual computer rooms with an ITE design load under 5 tons (18 kW) in a building that does not have any economizers. Exception 2 to Section 141.1(b)1: New cooling systems serving an existing computer room in an existing building with an ITE design load up to a total of 50 tons (176 kW). Exception 3 to Section 141.1(b)1: New cooling systems serving a new computer room in an existing building with an ITE design load up to a total of 20 tons (70 kW).
(c) Controlled Environment Horticulture Spaces.
- Indoor growing, space-conditioning systems and dehumidification. All newly installed heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems or dehumidification systems in buildings with indoor growing shall meet the applicable requirements of Sections 120.6(h)1 and 120.6(h)2.
CBC § 1101.5 High relevance — show source text
1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1101.5|||X|†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1101.6||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1102.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1102.3 Exception||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1102.4|||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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11 ADDITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which correlate to the code requirements for new construction. There are, however, some exceptions that are specifically stated within this chapter. An “Addition” is defined in Chapter 2 as “an extension or increase in the floor area, number of stories or height of a building or structure.” Chapter 11 contains the minimum requirements for an addition that is not separated from the existing building by a fire wall.
SECTION 1101—GENERAL
1101.1 Scope. An addition to a building or structure shall comply with the California Building Standards Codes as adopted for new construction without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with any requirements of those codes or of these provisions, except as required by this chapter. Where an addition or alteration impacts the existing building or structure, the result of the addition or alteration shall not put the existing building or structure out of compliance with the California Building or Residential Code as applicable. The provisions of height and area of the California Building or Residential Code shall apply to the entire existing building with the additions.
1101.2 Creation or extension of nonconformity. An addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity in the existing building to which the addition is being made with regard to accessibility, structural strength, supports and attachments for nonstructural components, fire safety, means of egress or the capacity of mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems.
Exception: Nonconforming supports and attachments for nonstructural components that serve the addition from within the existing building need not be altered to comply with California Building Code Section 1613 unless the components are part of the addition’s life safety system or are required to serve an addition assigned to Risk Category IV.
[BS] 1101.3 Risk category assignment. Where the addition and the existing building have different occupancies, the risk category of each existing and added occupancy shall be determined in accordance with Section 1604.5.1 of the California Building Code . Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the existing building compared with the risk category for the existing building before the addition, such a change shall be considered a change of occupancy and shall comply with Chapter 10 of this code. Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the addition compared with the risk category for the addition by itself, the addition and any systems in the existing building required to serve the addition shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction for the higher risk category.
CBC § 1101.2 High relevance — show source text
1101.2 Creation or extension of nonconformity. An addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity in the existing building to which the addition is being made with regard to accessibility, structural strength, supports and attachments for nonstructural components, fire safety, means of egress or the capacity of mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems.
Exception: Nonconforming supports and attachments for nonstructural components that serve the addition from within the existing building need not be altered to comply with California Building Code Section 1613 unless the components are part of the addition’s life safety system or are required to serve an addition assigned to Risk Category IV.
[BS] 1101.3 Risk category assignment. Where the addition and the existing building have different occupancies, the risk category of each existing and added occupancy shall be determined in accordance with Section 1604.5.1 of the California Building Code . Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the existing building compared with the risk category for the existing building before the addition, such a change shall be considered a change of occupancy and shall comply with Chapter 10 of this code. Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the addition compared with the risk category for the addition by itself, the addition and any systems in the existing building required to serve the addition shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction for the higher risk category.
1101.4 Other work. Any repair or alteration work within an existing building to which an addition is being made shall comply with the applicable requirements for the work as classified in Chapter 6.
1101.5 Smoke barriers in Group R-2.1 . Where an addition to an existing Group R-2.1 building adds sleeping areas that result in more than 50 care recipients on a story, smoke barriers shall be provided to subdivide such story into not fewer than two smoke compartments in accordance with Section 420.6 of the California Building Code .
Exception: Where the existing building is divided into smoke compartments and the addition does not result in any individual smoke compartment exceeding the size and travel distance requirements in Section 420.6 of the California Building Code, additional smoke barriers are not required.
1101.6 Enhanced classroom acoustics. In Group E occupancies, enhanced classroom acoustics shall be provided in all classrooms in the addition with a volume of 20,000 cubic feet (565 m [3] ) or less. Enhanced classroom acoustics shall comply with the reverberation time in Section 808 of ICC A117.1.
1101.7 Occupiable roofs. Where a new occupiable roof is added to a building or structure, the occupiable roof shall comply with the provisions of the California Building Code .
SECTION 1102—HEIGHTS AND AREAS
1102.1 Height limitations. An addition shall not increase the height of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings.
1102.2 Area limitations. An addition shall not increase the area of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings unless fire separation as required by the California Building Code is provided.
1102.3 Fire protection systems. Existing fire areas increased by the addition shall comply with Chapter 9 of the California Building Code .
CBC § 1.2. High relevance — show source text
1.2. If the addition constitutes substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 1.3. If the addition does not constitute substantial improvement, the addition is not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply: 1.3.1. The addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity of the existing building with the flood-resistant construction requirements. 1.3.2. The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 2. For horizontal additions that are not structurally interconnected to the existing building: 2.1. The addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Resi- dential Code, as applicable. 2.2. If the addition and all other proposed work, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 3. For vertical additions and all other proposed work that, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 4. For a new foundation, replacement foundation or a foundation raised or extended upward, the foundation shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
SECTION 1104—ENERGY CONSERVATION
1104.1 Minimum requirements. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with applicable provisions of the California Energy Code (Part 6, Title 24, C.C.R).
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12 HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California.
Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 13 – PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS
Not adopted by the State of California (May be available for adoption by local ordinance. See Section 1.1.11.) (See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.)
CBC § 304.3.1 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the Cali- fornia Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
- Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the addition considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the addition ignored shall be permitted to remain unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 of this code . For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction.
When calculating demand-capacity ratios for wind, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code or the code wind forces in effect at the time. When calculating demand-capacity ratios for earthquake, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 304.3.1 or the full seismic forces in effect at the time.
[BS] 1103.3 Flood hazard areas. Additions and foundations in flood hazard areas shall comply with the following requirements:
- For horizontal additions that are structurally interconnected to the existing building: 1.1. If the addition and all other proposed work, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 1.2. If the addition constitutes substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 1.3. If the addition does not constitute substantial improvement, the addition is not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply: 1.3.1. The addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity of the existing building with the flood-resistant construction requirements. 1.3.2. The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
- For horizontal additions that are not structurally interconnected to the existing building: 2.1. The addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Resi- dential Code, as applicable. 2.2. If the addition and all other proposed work, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
- For vertical additions and all other proposed work that, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
CBC § 1302.1.3 High relevance — show source text
1302.1.3 Additions. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the requirements of the International Building Code or the International Residential Code for new construction. The combined height and area of the existing building and the new addition shall not exceed the height and area allowed by Chapter 5 of the International Building Code . Where a fire wall that complies with Section 706 of the International Building Code is provided between the addition and the existing building, the addition shall be considered a separate building. Where a new occupiable roof is added to a building or structure, the occupiable roof shall comply with the provisions of the International Building Code .
Exception: In-filling of floor openings and nonoccupiable appendages, such as elevator and exit stairway shafts, shall be permitted beyond that permitted by the International Building Code .
1302.1.4 Alterations. An existing building or portion thereof shall not be altered in such a manner that results in the building being less safe or sanitary than such building is currently.
Exception: Where the current level of safety or sanitation is proposed to be reduced, the portion altered shall conform to the requirements of the International Building Code .
1302.1.5 Escalators. Where escalators are provided in below-grade transportation stations, existing and new escalators shall be permitted to have a clear width of less than 32 inches (815 mm).
1302.1.6 Plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided in accordance with Section 1009 for a change of occupancy and Section 808 for alterations. Plumbing fixtures for additions shall be in accordance with the International Plumbing Code .
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SECTION 1303—ACCEPTANCE
1303.1 General. For repairs, alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section, compliance with this section shall be accepted by the code official.
1303.1.1 Hazards. Where the code official determines that an unsafe condition exists as provided for in Section 115, such unsafe condition shall be abated in accordance with Section 115.
1303.1.2 Compliance with other codes. Buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with the Inter- national Fire Code and International Property Maintenance Code .
[BS] 1303.1.3 Compliance with flood hazard provisions. In flood hazard areas, buildings that are evaluated in accordance with this section shall comply with Section 1612 of the International Building Code, or Section R306 of the International Residential Code, as applicable, if the work covered by this section constitutes substantial improvement. If the work covered by this section is a structurally connected horizontal addition that does not constitute substantial improvement, the addition is not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply.
- The addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity of the existing building with the flood-resistant construction requirements.
- The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 of the International Building Code or Section R306 of the International Residential Code, as applicable.
SECTION 1304—INVESTIGATION AND EVALUATION
CBC § 604.1 High relevance — show source text
604.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations apply where the work area exceeds 50 percent of the building area.
604.2 Application. Level 3 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 and 8 for Level 1 and 2 alterations, respectively, as well as the provisions of Chapter 9.
SECTION 605—CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
605.1 Scope. Change of occupancy provisions apply where the activity is classified as a change of occupancy as defined in Chapter 2.
605.2 Application. Changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10.
SECTION 606—ADDITIONS
606.1 Scope. Provisions for additions shall apply where work is classified as an addition as defined in Chapter 2.
606.2 Application. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 11.
SECTION 607—HISTORIC BUILDINGS
607.1 Scope. The provisions of the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R) shall apply to qualified historical buildings or properties.
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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 7 – ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
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 Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section 701.1 X 702.7 X 703.2 X 703.2.1 X _703.2. CBC § 301 High relevance — show source text
The IEBC is a model code in the International Code family of codes intended to provide requirements for repair and alternative approaches for alterations, changes of occupancy and additions to existing buildings. A large number of existing buildings and structures do not comply with the current building code requirements for new construction. Although many of these buildings are potentially salvageable, rehabilitation is often cost-prohibitive because compliance with all the requirements for new construction could require extensive changes that go well beyond the value of the building or the original scope of the alteration. At the same time, it is necessary to regulate construction in existing buildings that undergo additions, alterations, extensive repairs or change of occupancy. Such activity represents an opportunity to ensure that new construction complies with the current building codes and that existing conditions are maintained, at a minimum, to their current level of compliance or are improved as required to meet basic safety levels. To accomplish this objective, and to make the alteration process easier, this code allows for options for controlled departure from full compliance with the International Codes dealing with new construction, while maintaining basic levels for fire safety, structural and life safety features of the rehabilitated building.
This code provides three main options for a designer in dealing with alterations of existing buildings. These are laid out in Section 301 of this code:
Option 1: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Prescriptive Compliance Method given in Chapter 5. It should be noted that this method originates from the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Option 2: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Work Area Compliance Method given in Chapters 6 through 12.
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Option 3: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Performance Compliance Method given in Chapter 13. It should be noted that this option was also provided in the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Under limited circumstances, a building alteration can be made to comply with the laws under which the building was originally built, as long as the accessibility requirements are met, there has been no substantial structural damage and there will be limited structural alteration. Flood hazard provisions also must still be addressed where there is a substantial improvement.
Note that all repairs must comply with Chapter 4 and all relocated buildings are addressed by Chapter 14.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CEBC
The format of the CEBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CEBC is divided. The subsequent table shows CEBC requirements that are correlated with other California Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CEBC.
CBC § 319.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Buildings complying with the requirements of the exception in Section 319.1 are deemed to meet the seismic performance requirements of this section._
4. State-owned and state-leased essential services buildings are subject to the regulatory authority of DSA-SS per Section 1.9.2.1.|317.6 Retrofit required. Where the evaluation indicates the building does not meet the required performance objectives of this section, the owner shall take appropriate steps to ensure that the building’s structural system is retrofitted in accordance with the provisions of Section 317. Appropriate steps are either: 1) undertake the seismic retrofit as part of the additions, alterations and/or repairs of the structure; or 2) provide a plan, acceptable to the building official, to complete the seismic retrofit in a timely manner. The relocation or moving of an existing building is considered to be an alteration requiring filing of the plans and specifications approved by the building official.
317.7 The additions, alteration or repair to any existing building are permitted to be prepared in accordance with the structural and nonstructural requirements for a new building as given in the California Building Code, applied to the entire building.
317.8 The requirements of ASCE 41 Chapters 14 and 15 are to apply to the use of seismic isolation and passive energy systems, respectively, for the repair, voluntary lateral-force-resisting system modification or retrofit of an existing structure. When seismic isolation or passive energy dissipation is used, the project must have project peer review as prescribed in Section 322.
317.9 Any construction required by this chapter shall include structural observation by the registered design professional who is responsible for the structural design in accordance with Section 319.10.
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
317.10 Where Method B of Section 321 is used or is required by Section 319.7, the proposed method of building evaluation and design procedures must be accepted by the building official prior to the commencement of the work.
317.11 Voluntary lateral-force-resisting system modifications. Where the exception of Section 317.2 applies, modifications of existing structural components and additions of new structural components that are initiated for the purpose of improving the seismic performance of an existing structure and that are not required by other portions of this chapter are permitted under the requirements of Section 319.12.
SECTION 318 [BSC, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC]—DEFINITIONS
318.1 In addition to the definitions given in Section 202, for the purposes of Sections 317 through 323, certain terms are defined as follows:
[DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] For the purposes of Section 317 through 323, definitions of terms given in Section 4-207 or 4-314 of the California Administrative Code govern over those in Section 202.
ADDITION [BSC] means any work that increases the floor or roof area or the volume of enclosed space of an existing building, and is structurally attached to the existing building by connections that are required for transmitting vertical or horizontal loads between the addition and the existing structure.
CBC § 307.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[HCD 1-AC] Accessibility requirements for covered multifamily dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code, are promulgated under HCD authority and are located in Chapter 11A of the California Building Code.
SECTION 307—SMOKE ALARMS
307.1 Smoke alarms. Where an alteration, addition, change of occupancy or relocation of a building is made to an existing building or structure of a Group R and I-1 occupancy, the existing building shall be provided with smoke alarms in accordance with the California Fire Code or Section R310 of the California Residential Code .
Exception: Work classified as Level 1 Alterations in accordance with Chapter 7.
SECTION 308—CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTION
308.1 Carbon monoxide detection. Where an addition, alteration, change of occupancy or relocation of a building is made to an existing building, the existing building shall be provided with carbon monoxide detection in accordance with the California Fire Code or Section R311 of the California Residential Code .
3-6 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
308.2 Carbon monoxide alarms in existing portions of a building. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17926, carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in all existing Group R buildings, as required in Section 915 of the California Building Code or Section R315 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
308.2.1 Carbon monoxide detection in existing Group E occupancy buildings. Where the new addition includes any of the conditions identified in the California Fire Code Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in accordance with Section 915 of the California Fire Code. No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale, or sell any carbon monoxide device in the State of California unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
SECTION 309—ADDITIONS AND REPLACEMENTS OF EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND EXTERIOR WALL ENVELOPES
309.1 General. The provisions of Section 309 apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocations of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method.
309.2 Additions and replacements. Where an exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope is added or replaced, the materials and methods used shall comply with the requirements for new construction in Chapter 14 and Chapter 26 of the California Building Code if the added or replaced exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope involves two or more contiguous stories and comprises more than 15 percent of the total wall area on any side of the building.
309.2.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Combustible exterior wall covering or combustible exterior wall envelopes shall not be added to an existing high-rise building that is not protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
Exceptions:
- Where such material is located on a single story and is less than 15 percent of the wall area on any side of the building.
- Water-resistive barriers installed in accordance with Section 1402.6 of the California Building Code .
Frequently asked questions
Do additions always have to meet new‑building code requirements for everything?
No — Chapter 11 treats the addition itself as new construction, but it does not automatically force full upgrade of the existing building except where Chapter 11 (or other code provisions) requires upgrades, or where the addition causes nonconformity or changes risk category (§ 1101.1–1101.3).
If my addition makes the combined area exceed the CBC limit, what are my options?
You must either provide the required fire separation so the addition can be considered a separate building or reduce the addition so the combined building complies with CBC Chapter 5 limits; Chapter 11 requires you to check the combined height/area against Chapter 5 (§ 1102.2).
Will adding a single new room trigger flood‑proofing or elevation work?
It depends. If the addition (alone or combined with other work) constitutes a “substantial improvement” or is structurally interconnected in flood hazard areas, CBC §1612 (or CRC R306) may require flood‑resistant construction; Chapter 11 and the CEBC outline the tests and exceptions to determine this (§ 1103.3).
Do I need to upgrade smoke alarms and CO detectors in the existing building when I add on?
Possibly — the CEBC requires smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detection where an addition or alteration is made to existing Group R or I‑1 occupancies, subject to exceptions (CEBC §§ 307–308). Check those sections with the building official.
Where do I find the numeric height/area limits and firewall specifications?
Chapter 11 points you to the California Building Code (CBC) Chapter 5 for the numeric height/area tables and to the CBC firewall provisions for separation. The Chapter 11 excerpts summarize the rule but do not include Chapter 5 numeric tables — consult CBC Chapter 5 and the firewall sections for the specific numbers and assemblies.
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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