CBC · California Building Code

Which administrative provisions and compliance-path options govern repairs, alterations and changes of occupancy?

If you’re repairing, altering, adding to or changing the use of an existing building in California, start at CEBC § 301.1: repairs follow Chapter 4, while alterations/additions/changes of occupancy must use one selected method — Prescriptive (Ch.5), Work‑Area (Ch.6–12) or Performance (Ch.13) — and Sections 302–309 apply regardless. See § 301.3 for the method choices and § 301.2 for repairs .

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Existing Building Code (CEBC) requires that any repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of an existing building comply with the administrative routing set out in § 301.1 and then proceed by one of the compliance paths listed in § 301.3 (or meet the relocated‑building rules of § 301.4). In plain terms: repairs follow Chapter 4; alterations/additions/changes of occupancy must use one selected compliance method (Prescriptive, Work‑Area, or Performance) and the provisions in Sections 302–309 apply no matter which method is used. See § 301.1 and § 301.3 for the governing rules and method options .

Requirements in detail

1) How the administrative rule starts: applicability and universal provisions

  • The starting rule is § 301.1: every repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation must comply with either § 301.2 (repairs), § 301.3 (alteration/addition/change of occupancy methods), or § 301.4 (relocated buildings). Sections 302–309 are mandatory provisions that apply regardless of the selected method .
  • Practical effect: before you pick technical requirements you must identify which of these three administrative routes applies.

2) The three compliance-path options (how to comply with an alteration, addition or change of occupancy)

  • Prescriptive Compliance Method (Chapter 5): a rule‑by‑rule prescriptive path; described in § 301.3.1. This is the common, straightforward option for many projects .
  • Work Area Compliance Method (Chapters 6–12): the “work‑area” approach that applies improvements to the area of work and triggers for specific building systems; described in § 301.3.2 .
  • Performance Compliance Method (Chapter 13): performance‑based scoring/evaluation option; described in § 301.3.3. Note: Chapter 13 is not adopted by some state agencies and may only be available by local ordinance in some jurisdictions .
  • IMPORTANT: the owner/applicant selects one method; the methods in §§ 301.3.1–301.3.3 are not to be combined (except where the enforcing agency explicitly allows) .

3) Repairs

  • Repairs (not alterations) are governed by Chapter 4 and are routed administratively by § 301.2. Repairs generally permit using like materials/methods unless the work would create an unsafe condition; Chapter 4 controls scope and when new‑construction requirements are triggered .

4) Agency and subject‑specific exceptions and overlays

  • State and agency exceptions are carved out in § 301.1 (for example, state‑owned structures, public schools and certain OSHPD facilities are subject to special provisions or other sections) — these can require different retrofit standards or adoption of different sections .
  • Where other California codes apply (Energy, Fire, Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical, etc.) they must also be applied to the work; where conflicts exist, the CEBC takes precedence for the alteration/repair scope described in Chapter 3 .

Decision‑relevant summary table

Decision dimension Typical values / options What that means for compliance Code Reference
Type of work Repair / Alteration / Change of occupancy / Addition / Relocation Repairs → Chapter 4; Alterations, additions, change of occupancy → pick one compliance method; Relocated → Chapter 14 Repairs: § 301.2 ; Methods: § 301.3 ; Relocated: § 301.4
Compliance path for alterations/additions/changes of occupancy Prescriptive (Ch.5) / Work‑Area (Ch.6–12) / Performance (Ch.13) Applicant selects one; chapters listed supply technical triggers and scope Prescriptive: § 301.3.1 ; Work‑Area: § 301.3.2 ; Performance: § 301.3.3 (may be local)
Applicability of general provisions Always applicable Sections 302–309 apply regardless of chosen method § 301.1 referencing Sections 302–309
Whether methods may be combined No (except local/enforcement approval) Do not mix prescriptive/work‑area/performance unless enforcement agency permits § 301.3 text and explanatory note

Exceptions & special cases

  • Agency‑specific adoption or exclusions: OSHPD, DSA, HCD and other agencies adopt different subsets (see § 301.1 exceptions) — for example, some OSHPD applications are controlled by Chapters 3A–5A instead of Chapters 3–5 .
  • Performance method availability: Chapter 13 (performance) may not be adopted by a given state agency (explicitly noted in the code); it may be available only via local ordinance — check § 301.3.3 and Chapter 13 notes before relying on it .
  • Historic or pre‑1973 buildings: CEBC includes alternative categories (see Chapter 3A/301A for OSHPD and historical code chapters) — these special chapters change how the methods apply; consult the specific chapter for those buildings .
  • Limited use of the original (existing) law: Subject to code official approval, alterations may sometimes comply with the historic law under which the building was constructed — but accessibility triggers and other specific exceptions still apply (see § 301.3 exception language) .

Common mistakes

  • Selecting more than one compliance method and assuming you can combine their provisions — the CEBC prohibits combining §§ 301.3.1–301.3.3 except when the enforcement agency permits it .
  • Treating all work as a “repair” to avoid stricter requirements — if the work qualifies as an alteration, change of occupancy or addition, it must follow § 301.3 and the appropriate chapter, not Chapter 4 alone .
  • Assuming Chapter 13 is universally available — the performance method is not adopted by some agencies and may require local ordinance; verify adoption before planning on that path .
  • Ignoring Sections 302–309 — these general provisions apply regardless of method; failing to apply them (for example, existing materials rules, additional codes, dangerous conditions) is a frequent trap .

Worked example — applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: You own a single building of 5,000 sq ft currently used as retail (Group M) and plan to change 2,000 sq ft of the building to professional offices (Group B), reconfiguring that tenant space and replacing finishes and fixtures.

Step 1 — Identify administrative route:

  • This is a change of occupancy and an alteration (not a simple repair) → § 301.1 directs you to § 301.3 for method selection .

Step 2 — Determine classification of alteration:

  • The work area is 2,000 sq ft / 5,000 sq ft = 40% of the building area. That percentage falls within the range typically described for a Level 2 alteration (space reconfiguration and up to 50% area) in the CEBC’s Level‑2 explanation (see Chapter 8 description) — therefore a Work‑Area method is a logical choice for this scale of reconfiguration .

Step 3 — Choose compliance method:

  • Select Work‑Area Compliance (Chapters 6–12) and perform the required work‑area evaluations and upgrades listed there (means of egress, fire protections, systems triggered by the scope of work). The administrative authority for choosing the Work‑Area method is § 301.3.2 (Chapters 6–12) .

Step 4 — Apply universal provisions:

  • Apply Sections 302–309 (e.g., existing materials, additional codes, dangerous conditions) regardless of method. If the change of occupancy triggers accessibility upgrades, those accessibility provisions (Chapter 11A or applicable sections) must be considered even if using the Work‑Area method .

Outcome: By documenting the choice of the Work‑Area method under § 301.3.2 and applying Chapters 6–12 to the 2,000 sq ft alteration plus the universal Sections 302–309, you follow the CEBC administrative requirements for this change of occupancy .

Related provisions

  • § 301.1 — Applicability; directs use of § 301.2, § 301.3 or § 301.4 and notes Sections 302–309 are universally applicable
  • § 301.2 — Repairs; Chapter 4 controls repair work
  • § 301.3 — Alteration/addition/change of occupancy methods and selection rule (prescriptive/work‑area/performance)
  • § 301.3.1 — Prescriptive compliance (Chapter 5)
  • § 301.3.2 — Work‑Area compliance (Chapters 6–12)
  • § 301.3.3 — Performance compliance (Chapter 13) — includes note about non‑adoption by some agencies
  • § 301.4 — Relocated or moved buildings (Chapter 14)
  • § 1302.1 (Chapter 13) — Applicability for performance method where used for change of occupancy (see Chapter 13 applicability notes)

Code references

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

  • CBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text

    xii 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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    Chapter 3 Provisions for All Compliance Methods.

    Chapter 3 guides the use of the three compliance methods of the CEBC and provides requirements that apply globally. The globally applicable requirement include general requirements related to buildings materials and other applicable codes, storm shelters, structural loads, in-situ load tests, accessibility, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detection and exterior wall coverings.

    Chapter 3A Provisions for All Compliance Methods.

    Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing 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 4 Repairs.

    Chapter 4, a chapter independent of the three compliance methods, governs the repair of existing buildings. The provisions define conditions under which repairs may be made using materials and methods like those of the original construction or the extent to which repairs must comply with requirements for new buildings.

    Chapter 4A Repairs.

    Chapter 4A governs the repair of existing buildings regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of State- wide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).

    Chapter 5 Prescriptive Compliance Method.

    Chapter 5 provides one of the three main options of compliance available in the CEBC for buildings and structures undergoing alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The base requirements are more administrative in nature. The structural triggers for upgrades are consistent with the Work Area Method.

    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.

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

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    members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code . This exception shall not apply to the following:

    1. Alterations for accessibility required by the California Building Code, Chapter 11A.

    2. Alterations that constitute substantial improvement in flood hazard areas, which shall comply with Sections 503.2, 701.3 or 1303.1.3.

    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 § 309.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |309.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |310 – 311|||||||||||X|X|||X|||||||||| |312|||||||||||X|||||||||||||| |313 – 316|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |317 – 322|X|||||||X|X|||||||||||||||| |323||||||||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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    3 PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 3 explains the three compliance options for alterations and additions available in the code. In addition, this chapter also lays out the methods to be used for seismic design and evaluation throughout this code. Finally, this chapter clarifies that provisions in other I-Codes related to repairs, alterations, additions, relocation and changes of occupancy must also be addressed unless they conflict with this code. In that case, this code takes precedence.

    SECTION 301—ADMINISTRATION

    301.1 Applicability. The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with Section 301.2, 301.3 or 301.4. The provisions of Sections 302 through 309 shall apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocation of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Section 301.4 not permitted by OSHPD.

    Exceptions: 1. Existing state-owned structures. [BSC] The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 317 through 322 as the minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing state-owned structures, including buildings owned by the University of California, the California State University or the Judicial Council. The provisions of Sections 317 through 322 may be adopted by a local jurisdiction for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing buildings. 2. Public school buildings [DSA-SS] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as public school buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety (DSA-SS, refer to Section 1.9.2.1) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing public school buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS. 3. _**Community college buildings.

  • CBC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 302 A —GENERAL PROVISIONS

    302 A .1 Dangerous conditions. The code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.

    302 A .2 Additional codes. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and struc- tures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in the California Fire Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code and California Electrical Code. Where provisions of the other codes conflict with provisions of this chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall take precedence.

    302 A .2.1 Additional codes in health care. In existing Group I-2 occupancies, ambulatory health care facilities, outpatient clinics and hyperbaric facilities, alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall also comply with NFPA 99.

    302 A .3 Existing materials and equipment. Materials and equipment already in use in a building in compliance with requirements or approvals in effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be permitted to remain in use unless determined by the code official to be unsafe in accordance with California Building Code Section 116.

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    302A.3.1 Existing seismic force-resisting systems. Where the existing seismic force-resisting system is a type that can be designated ordinary or is a welded steel moment frame constructed under a permit issued prior to October 25, 1994, values of R, W0 and Cd for the existing seismic force-resisting system shall be those specified by the California Building Code for an ordinary system unless it is demonstrated that the existing system will provide performance equivalent to that of a detailed, intermediate or special system.

    302 A .4 New and replacement materials. Except as otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials and equipment permitted by the applicable code for new construction shall be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs and alterations, provided no hazard to life, health or property is c reated. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for new construction would not permit their use in buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location.

    302 A .4.1 New structural members and connections. New structural members and connections shall comply with the detailing provisions of the California Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose and location.

    Exception: Where alternative design criteria are specifically permitted.

    302 A .5 Occupancy and use. Where determining the appropriate application of the referenced sections of this code, the occupancy and use of a building shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of the California Building Code .

  • CBC § 301.3.2 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    302.2.1 Additional codes in health care. In existing Group I-2 occupancies, ambulatory health care facilities, outpatient clinics and hyperbaric facilities, alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall also comply with NFPA 99.

    302.3 Existing materials. Materials already in use in a building in compliance with requirements or approvals in effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be permitted to remain in use unless determined by the code official to be unsafe.

    302.4 New and replacement materials. Except as otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials permitted by the applicable code for new construction shall be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs and alterations, provided that unsafe conditions are not created. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for new construction would not permit their use in buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location. [HCD 1] Local ordinances or regulations shall permit the replacement, retention and extension of original materials, and the use of original methods of construction, for any building or accessory structure, provided such building or structure complied with the building code provisions in effect at the time of original construction and the building or accessory structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922(d), 17922.3, 17958.8 and 17958.9.

    Exception: No replacement residential garage door shall be installed to connect the replacement door to an existing residential automatic garage door opener that does not have a battery backup function designed to keep the garage door operational without interruption during an electrical outage. See Health and Safety Code Section 19892.

  • 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 § 1.1 High relevance — show source text

    California Energy Commission, State Fire Marshal and DSA-AC requirements for existing structures shall be enforced by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).

    301 A .1.1 Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating. Existing bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating shall comply with ICC 300.

    301 A .2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4 A .

    301 A .3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings or structures shall comply with one of the methods or categories listed in Section 301 A .3.1, 301 A .3.2 or 301 A .3.3. Section 304A.3.2 applies to all methods or categories. Sections 301 A .3.1 through 301 A .3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other , except when permitted by the enforcement agency.

    Exception: Subject to the approval of the enforcement agency, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code .

    301 A .3.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 A of this code for existing buildings or structures shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

    301 A .3.2 Nonconforming buildings . Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings or structures designed in accordance with the Pre-1973 building code complying with Section 304A.3.1 and the applicable requirements herein shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

    301 A .3.3 Performance- based method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings or structures complying with Sections 304A.3.4 and 304A.3.5 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

    301 A .4 Moved structures . Structures moved into or within the jurisdiction shall comply with the provisions of the California Building Code for new structures.

    301A.5 Reserved.

    301A.6 Peer review requirements. Peer review requirements shall comply with California Building Code Section 1617A.1.41.

    301A.7 Earthquake monitoring instruments for existing buildings. Earthquake monitoring instrumentation of existing buildings shall comply with Section 313A.

    301A.8 Compliance alternatives for services/systems and utilities . Compliance alternatives for services/systems and utilities shall comply with Section 310A.

    301A.9 Compliance alternatives for means of egress. Means of egress through existing buildings shall comply with Section 311A.

    301A.10 Removal of hospital buildings from general acute care services. Removal of hospital buildings from General Acute Care Services shall comply with Section 312A.

  • CBC § 9.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    _ Community college buildings. [DSA-SS/CC] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as community college buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC, refer to Section 1.9.2.2) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing community college buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS/CC. 4. _[HCD 1]**_ In addition to the requirements in this chapter, maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures under the authority of the Department of Housing and Community Development, as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.1, shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1.

    Exceptions: 1. [HCD 2] For moved buildings and maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures in mobilehome parks or special occupancy parks as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.3, see California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapters 2 and 2.2. 2. [HCD 1] Limited-density owner-built rural dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Residential Code. 5. 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). Functional service spaces shall comply with the requirements in the California Building Code, Sections 1224, 1225, 1226, 1227 and 1228.

    301.1.1 Bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands. Existing bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands shall comply with ICC 300.

    301.2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4.

    301.3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings shall comply with one of the methods listed in Section 301.3.1, 301.3.2 or 301.3.3 as selected by the applicant. Sections 301.3.1 through 301.3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Sections 301.3.2 and 301.3.3, not adopted by OSHPD.

    Exception: Subject to the approval of the code official, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural

  • CBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text

    **_ 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). Functional service spaces shall comply with the requirements in the California Building Code, Sections 1224, 1225, 1226, 1227 and 1228.

    301.1.1 Bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands. Existing bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands shall comply with ICC 300.

    301.2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4.

    301.3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings shall comply with one of the methods listed in Section 301.3.1, 301.3.2 or 301.3.3 as selected by the applicant. Sections 301.3.1 through 301.3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Sections 301.3.2 and 301.3.3, not adopted by OSHPD.

    Exception: Subject to the approval of the code official, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural

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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:

    1. Alterations for accessibility required by the California Building Code, Chapter 11A.

    2. Alterations that constitute substantial improvement in flood hazard areas, which shall comply with Sections 503.2, 701.3 or 1303.1.3.

    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.

  • 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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3A-1

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

    3A-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    3 A PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing 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 301 A —ADMINISTRATION

    301 A .1 Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, repair, addition and change of occupancy of existing structures for applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 [OSHPD 1] regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).

    California Energy Commission, State Fire Marshal and DSA-AC requirements for existing structures shall be enforced by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).

    301 A .1.1 Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating. Existing bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating shall comply with ICC 300.

    301 A .2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4 A .

    301 A .3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings or structures shall comply with one of the methods or categories listed in Section 301 A .3.1, 301 A .3.2 or 301 A .3.3. Section 304A.3.2 applies to all methods or categories. Sections 301 A .3.1 through 301 A .3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other , except when permitted by the enforcement agency.

    Exception: Subject to the approval of the enforcement agency, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code .

    301 A .3.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 A of this code for existing buildings or structures shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

  • CBC § 301.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 301—ADMINISTRATION

    301.1 Applicability. The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with Section 301.2, 301.3 or 301.4. The provisions of Sections 302 through 309 shall apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocation of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Section 301.4 not permitted by OSHPD.

    Exceptions: 1. Existing state-owned structures. [BSC] The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 317 through 322 as the minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing state-owned structures, including buildings owned by the University of California, the California State University or the Judicial Council. The provisions of Sections 317 through 322 may be adopted by a local jurisdiction for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing buildings. 2. Public school buildings [DSA-SS] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as public school buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety (DSA-SS, refer to Section 1.9.2.1) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing public school buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS. 3. Community college buildings. [DSA-SS/CC] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as community college buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC, refer to Section 1.9.2.2) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing community college buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS/CC. 4. [HCD 1] In addition to the requirements in this chapter, maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures under the authority of the Department of Housing and Community Development, as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.1, shall comply with California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1.

    Exceptions: 1. [HCD 2] For moved buildings and maintenance, alteration, repair, addition or change of occupancy to existing buildings and accessory structures in mobilehome parks or special occupancy parks as provided in Section 1.8.2.1.3, see California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapters 2 and 2.2. 2. [HCD 1] Limited-density owner-built rural dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Residential Code. _**5.

  • CBC § 1302.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1302—APPLICABILITY

    1302.1 General. Existing buildings in which there is work involving additions, alterations or changes of occupancy shall be made to conform to the requirements of this chapter or the provisions of Chapters 6 through 12. The provisions of Sections 1302.1.1 through 1302.1.6 shall apply to existing occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in Groups A, B, E, F, I-2, M, R and S. These provisions shall also apply to Group U occupancies where such occupancies are undergoing a change of occupancy or a partial change in occupancy with separations in accordance with Section 1302.1.2. These provisions shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H, I-1, I-3 or I-4.

    1302.1.1 Change in occupancy. Where an existing building is changed to a new occupancy classification and this section is applicable, the provisions of this section for the new occupancy shall be used to determine compliance with this code.

    1302.1.2 Partial change in occupancy. Where a portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy classification and that portion is separated from the remainder of the building with fire barrier or horizontal assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.4 of the International Building Code or Section R302 of the International Residential Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the portion changed shall be made to conform to the provisions of this section. Only the portion separated shall be required to be evaluated for compliance.

    Where a portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy classification and that portion is not separated from the remainder of the building with fire barriers or horizontal assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.4 of the International Building Code or Section R302 of the International Residential Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the provisions of this section which apply to each occupancy shall apply to the entire building. Where there are conflicting provisions, those requirements which secure the greater public safety shall apply to the entire building or structure.

    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).

Frequently asked questions

Who decides which compliance path to use?

The applicant (owner/designer) selects one of the methods in § 301.3; the enforcement agency may approve or require a different path in specific situations .

Can I mix parts of the prescriptive and work‑area methods?

No — §§ 301.3.1–301.3.3 are not to be applied in combination unless the enforcing agency explicitly permits it .

If I only replace finishes, is that a repair or an alteration?

If the work only replaces like materials and does not reconfigure space or change systems, it is typically a repair governed by Chapter 4 (see § 301.2); if space is reconfigured or systems altered, it becomes an alteration and § 301.3 applies .

Is the Performance Method (Chapter 13) always available?

No. Chapter 13 may not be adopted by some state agencies and could be permitted only by local ordinance — verify local adoption before assuming it is available .

Do Sections 302–309 apply to repairs?

Yes. Sections 302 through 309 apply to all repairs, alterations, additions, relocations and changes of occupancy regardless of the chosen compliance method (see § 301.1) .

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