CBC · California Building Code
Where are Insulated Metal Panels, HPL, BIPV and soffit/fascia rules located?
If you’re checking where these exterior wall and overhang materials are regulated in the California Building Code: HPL rules are in §1408 (tests, thermal barrier, a 40‑ft/10% alternate), IMP rules are in §1409 (structural/wind design, fire‑rating evidence, core combustibility, labeling), BIPV listing is required in §1411, and soffit/fascia wind/span/fastening rules are in §1412. Each of those sections points to test, labeling and wind/load chapters you must follow.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Building Code places the specific rules for high‑pressure decorative exterior‑grade compact laminates (HPL) in Section 1408, for insulated metal panels (IMP) in Section 1409, for building‑integrated photovoltaic systems (BIPV) used as wall coverings or fenestration in Section 1411, and for soffits and fascias at roof overhangs in Section 1412. These sections set performance, fire‑test, installation, wind/load and labeling requirements that work together with the general exterior wall provisions (e.g., § 1402) and applicable Chapters (e.g., Chapter 16 wind loads). See § 1408, § 1409, § 1411 and § 1412 for the controlling text.
Requirements in detail
HPL (High‑Pressure Laminates) — where and what to look for
Key HPL rules are in § 1408:
- Surface‑burning limits and full‑scale fire testing requirements for HPL systems on Types I–IV construction (§ 1408.10.1 through § 1408.10.4).
- A required thermal barrier between HPL and the building interior (½" gypsum or tested equivalent) unless specific full‑scale tests or NFPA 286/UL approvals are used (§ 1408.10.2–1408.10.3).
- An alternate limited allowance to install HPL up to 40 ft above grade when certain area and separation limits are met (§ 1408.11.1) — e.g., where fire separation distance ≤ 5 ft, HPL area is limited to 10% of the exterior wall surface; if separation > 5 ft, no area limit for that up‑to‑40‑ft allowance. (§ 1408.11.1–1408.11.2).
- Type V construction is permitted for HPL (§ 1408.12).
- If the HPL system contains foam plastic insulation, Chapter 26 requirements apply (§ 1408.13). Labeling per § 1703.5 is required (§ 1408.14).
IMP (Insulated Metal Panels) — scope and key obligations
IMP rules are in § 1409:
- § 1409.1–1409.4 set the general governance: IMP used as exterior walls or wall coverings must meet Chapter 14 performance requirements and be designed for applicable structural, wind and weather loads (Chapter 16/§ 1609). Approved test results or engineering analyses must be submitted for verification (§ 1409.1–1409.3).
- Fire‑resistance evidence: where the exterior wall is required to have a fire‑resistance rating per § 705, submit evidence that the IMP or IMP assembly preserves that rating (§ 1409.5). There is an exception for IMP with noncombustible insulation installed on the outside of a rated wall where attachments do not penetrate the entire assembly. (§ 1409.5)
- IMP with noncombustible core insulation must comply with §§ 1409.1–1409.5 (§ 1409.6); combustible‑core IMP have additional requirements in § 1409.7.
- Labeling requirements: IMP panels/packaging must bear an approved‑agency label and identification; foam cores must have additional labeling per Chapter 26 references (§ 1409.9–1409.9.1).
BIPV used as exterior wall coverings/fenestration
- Section 1411 requires BIPV systems used as exterior wall coverings or fenestration to be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or both UL 61730‑1 and UL 61730‑2, in addition to complying with other code provisions (§ 1411.1).
Soffits and fascias (roof overhangs)
Key rules are in § 1412:
- Soffits/fascias must be designed and constructed per the section; wind resistance is based on component and cladding loads from Chapter 16 using an effective wind area of 10 ft² (§ 1412.1–§ 1412.2).
- Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels must be installed with manufacturer‑specified fasteners, fastened at both ends to supporting members, and follow the span/fastening details when unsupported span or wind pressures exceed thresholds (§ 1412.3). (See Figures 1412.3(1) and 1412.3(2) for support details.)
- Specific thresholds: unsupported span > 12" and design wind pressure > 30 psf (or > 16" at ≤ 30 psf) trigger intermediate nailing strips (§ 1412.3).
- Fiber‑cement soffit panels must be at least 1/4" thick, meet ASTM C1186 Type A (Grade II) or ISO 8336 Category A (Class 2), have joints over framing/sheathing, and be installed per manufacturer instructions (§ 1412.4).
- Aluminum fascia minimum thickness is 0.019" and detailed fastening requirements differ when design wind pressure is ≤ or > 30 psf (§ 1412.7–§ 1412.7.2).
Decision‑relevant values (quick reference)
| Item | Value / Threshold | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| HPL surface burning limits (flame/smoke) | Flame spread ≤ 25; smoke ≤ 450 (ASTM E84/UL 723) | § 1408.10.1 |
| HPL thermal barrier | 1/2" gypsum wallboard or tested equivalent (NFPA tests) | § 1408.10.2–.10.3 |
| HPL limited install height (alternate) | Up to 40 ft above grade (with area limits as noted) | § 1408.11.1 |
| HPL area limit when separation ≤ 5 ft | ≤ 10% of exterior wall surface | § 1408.11.1.1 |
| IMP wind design basis | Per Chapter 16; wind loads per § 1609 | § 1409.2.2 / § 1409.2.1 |
| IMP labeling | Approved‑agency label on panel/packaging; foam cores labeled per Ch. 26 | § 1409.9–1409.9.1 |
| Soffit effective wind area | 10 sq ft (0.93 m²) | § 1412.2 |
| Soffit unsupported span thresholds | >12" (with wind >30 psf) or >16" (at ≤30 psf) → intermediate supports | § 1412.3 |
| Fiber‑cement soffit min thickness | 1/4" (6.4 mm), ASTM C1186 Type A Grade II | § 1412.4 |
| Aluminum fascia min thickness | 0.019" (0.48 mm) | § 1412.7 |
| BIPV listing | UL 1703 or UL 61730‑1 & ‑2 | § 1411.1 |
Exceptions & special cases
- HPL: A required thermal barrier can be omitted when the HPL system has been specifically approved by NFPA 286 or UL 1040/UL 1715 testing and meets acceptance criteria; balconies/trim can also be treated differently (§ 1408.10.3).
- HPL up to 40 ft: the limited exception (§ 1408.11.1) allows installations to 40 ft with the 10% area cap only when fire separation ≤ 5 ft; if separation > 5 ft the area cap does not apply for that ≤40 ft allowance. (§ 1408.11.1.1–.1.2).
- IMP: If the IMP has a noncombustible core and is attached to an already fire‑resistance‑rated exterior wall in a way that attachments do not penetrate the entire assembly, the IMP may be excepted from maintaining the wall’s rating (see § 1409.5 exception). Combustible‑core IMP have additional requirements (§ 1409.5–1409.7).
- BIPV: Listing/labeling is mandatory in addition to other code compliance; do not treat BIPV as conventional cladding unless the listed system demonstrates compliance (§ 1411.1).
- Soffits/fascias: Manufacturer installation instructions and the specific span/fastening diagrams (Figures 1412.3(1)/(2)) control many practical details; follow those as well as the dimensional and wind thresholds in § 1412.3–.7.
Common mistakes
- Treating HPL as ordinary cladding without checking NFPA 286 / NFPA 285 / UL test acceptance options or applying the 40‑ft/10% alternate incorrectly. Verify which test path was used and which exception applies (§ 1408.10–1408.11).
- Assuming all IMP cores are equivalent — combustible vs noncombustible cores have different compliance paths and documentation requirements (§ 1409.6–1409.7).
- Omitting required labeling for HPL or IMP (labels are required; foam cores have additional labeling) (§ 1408.14; § 1409.9).
- Installing soffit or fascia without checking unsupported span vs wind pressure thresholds (e.g., expecting a 16" panel span to be acceptable at high wind when § 1412.3 requires intermediate support when wind > 30 psf).
- Forgetting that IMP wall coverings must be designed for Chapter 16 wind loads and that approved test/engineering reports must be submitted (§ 1409.2.2–1409.2.3).
Worked example
Scenario: A Type I office building has an exterior wall 200 ft long by 35 ft tall (wall surface = 7,000 ft²). The designer proposes HPL façade panels up to 35 ft above grade; the adjacent property line results in a fire separation distance of 4 ft.
Applicable rules:
- Because HPL is being used up to 40 ft and separation distance ≤ 5 ft, the alternate allowance of § 1408.11.1.1 applies: HPL area is limited to 10% of the exterior wall surface.
Calculation:
- Maximum HPL area allowed = 10% of 7,000 ft² = 700 ft².
- If the proposed HPL cladding design calls for 900 ft², it exceeds the 10% allowance and would not qualify under § 1408.11.1.1; the owner must either reduce HPL area to ≤ 700 ft², increase the fire separation to > 5 ft (if possible), or meet the stricter full‑scale test/thermal barrier requirements in § 1408.10 instead.
Second (soffit) example: Vinyl soffit panels with an unsupported span of 14" are proposed at a roof overhang where design wind pressure is 35 psf.
- § 1412.3 requires intermediate nailing strips where unsupported span > 12" and design wind pressure > 30 psf; therefore the design must include intermediate nailing strips per Figure 1412.3(2) and follow manufacturer fastening instructions.
Related provisions (quick list)
- § 1402 — Performance requirements for exterior walls (weather, fire performance)
- § 1403 — Materials for exterior walls and specific material rules (e.g., foam plastic references)
- § 1404 — Installation of wall coverings and Table 1404.2 minimum thicknesses (useful for comparing materials)
- § 705 — Fire‑resistance ratings for exterior walls (referred to by IMP fire requirements)
- § 703.3 — Determination of combustibility for cores and materials (used in § 1409)
- § 1609 — Wind loads and design requirements referenced by IMP and soffit/cladding rules (§ 1409.2.2; § 1412.2)
- § 1703.5 — Labeling standards (referenced for HPL labeling)
- Chapter 26 / § 2603 — Foam plastic insulation requirements (applies where HPL or IMP include foam plastic)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 14-3 High relevance — show source text
1402 Performance Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1403 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-4
1404 Installation of Wall Coverings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
1405 Combustible Materials on the Exterior Side of
Exterior Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-16
1406 Metal Composite Material (MCM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-17
1407 Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). . . . 14-18
1408 High-Pressure Decorative Exterior-Grade Compact Laminates (HPL). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-18
1409 Insulated Metal Panel (IMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-19
1410 Plastic Composite Decking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-21 1411 Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems for Exterior Wall Coverings and Fenestration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-21
1412 Soffits and Fascias at Roof Overhangs . . . . . . . . . . 14-21
1413 [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Additional Requirements for Anchored and Adhered Veneer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-23
CHAPTER 15 ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP
STRUCTURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-1
1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1502 Roof Drainage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1503 Weather Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1504 Performance Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1505 Fire Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-5
1506 Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1507 Requirements for Roof Coverings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7
CBC § 1408.10 High relevance — show source text
1408.10 Types I, II, III and IV construction. Where installed on buildings of Types I, II, III and IV construction, HPL systems shall comply with Sections 1408.10.1 through 1408.10.4, or Section 1408.11.
1408.10.1 Surface-burning characteristics. HPL shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL
1408.10.2 Thermal barriers. HPL shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier consisting of 1 / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.
1408.10.3 Thermal barrier not required. The thermal barrier specified for HPL in Section 1408.10.2 is not required where:
The HPL system is specifically approved based on tests conducted in accordance with NFPA 286, and with the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, or with UL 1040 or UL 1715. Such testing shall be performed with the HPL in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use. The HPL system shall include seams, joints and other typical details used in the installation and shall be tested in the manner intended for use.
The HPL is used as elements of balconies and similar projections, architectural trim or embellishments.
1408.10.4 Full-scale tests. The HPL system shall be tested in accordance with, and comply with, the acceptance criteria of NFPA 285. Such testing shall be performed on the HPL system with the HPL in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use.
1408.11 Alternate conditions. HPL and HPL systems shall not be required to comply with Sections 1408.10.1 through 1408.10.4 provided that such systems comply with Section 1408.11.1.
1408.11.1 Installations up to 40 feet in height. HPL shall be permitted to be installed up to 40 feet (12 190 mm) in height above grade plane where installed in accordance with Section 1408.11.1.1 or 1408.11.1.2.
1408.11.1.1 Fire separation distance of 5 feet or less. Where the fire separation distance is 5 feet (1524 mm) or less, the area of HPL shall not exceed 10 percent of the exterior wall surface.
1408.11.1.2 Fire separation distance greater than 5 feet. Where the fire separation distance is greater than 5 feet (1524 mm), the area of exterior wall surface coverage using HPL shall not be limited.
1408.12 Type V construction. HPL shall be permitted to be installed on buildings of Type V construction.
1408.13 Foam plastic insulation. HPL systems containing foam plastic insulation shall comply with the requirements of Section 2603.
1408.14 Labeling. HPL shall be labeled in accordance with Section 1703.5.
SECTION 1409—INSULATED METAL PANEL (IMP)
CBC § 1408.10.4 High relevance — show source text
1408.10.4 Full-scale tests. The HPL system shall be tested in accordance with, and comply with, the acceptance criteria of NFPA 285. Such testing shall be performed on the HPL system with the HPL in the minimum and maximum thicknesses intended for use.
1408.11 Alternate conditions. HPL and HPL systems shall not be required to comply with Sections 1408.10.1 through 1408.10.4 provided that such systems comply with Section 1408.11.1.
1408.11.1 Installations up to 40 feet in height. HPL shall be permitted to be installed up to 40 feet (12 190 mm) in height above grade plane where installed in accordance with Section 1408.11.1.1 or 1408.11.1.2.
1408.11.1.1 Fire separation distance of 5 feet or less. Where the fire separation distance is 5 feet (1524 mm) or less, the area of HPL shall not exceed 10 percent of the exterior wall surface.
1408.11.1.2 Fire separation distance greater than 5 feet. Where the fire separation distance is greater than 5 feet (1524 mm), the area of exterior wall surface coverage using HPL shall not be limited.
1408.12 Type V construction. HPL shall be permitted to be installed on buildings of Type V construction.
1408.13 Foam plastic insulation. HPL systems containing foam plastic insulation shall comply with the requirements of Section 2603.
1408.14 Labeling. HPL shall be labeled in accordance with Section 1703.5.
SECTION 1409—INSULATED METAL PANEL (IMP)
1409.1 General. The provisions of this section, in addition to the other applicable requirements of this chapter and Chapter 16, shall govern the materials, construction and quality of insulated metal panels (IMP) for use as exterior walls and exterior wall coverings.
1409.2 Structural design. Structural design of IMP systems shall be in accordance with this section.
1409.2.1 IMP systems used as exterior walls. IMP systems used as exterior walls shall be designed and constructed to resist design loads in accordance with applicable provisions of Chapter 16.
1409.2.2 IMP systems used as exterior wall coverings. IMP systems used as exterior wall covering systems shall be designed and constructed to resist wind loads as required by Section 1609.
1409.2.3 Approval. Results of approved tests or engineering analyses shall be submitted to the building official to verify compliance with the applicable requirements of Chapter 16.
1409.3 Weather resistance. IMP systems shall comply with Section 1402 and shall be designed and constructed to resist wind and rain in accordance with this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
1409.4 Durability. IMP systems shall be constructed of approved materials that maintain the performance characteristics required in Section 1402 for the duration of use.
1409.5 Fire-resistance rating. Evidence of the required fire-resistance rating of IMP systems shall be in accordance with this section.
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CBC § 12-113 Medium relevance — show source text
1248 Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113
1249 Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113
1250 [CA] Pharmacies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113
1251 [CA] Veterinary Premises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113
1252 [CA] Barber Colleges and Shops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-114
1253 [CA] Schools of Cosmetology, Cosmetological Establishments and Satellite Classrooms . . . . . 12-114
1254 [CA] Acupuncture Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-115
CHAPTER 13 ENERGY EFFICIENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1
CHAPTER 14 EXTERIOR WALLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1402 Performance Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1403 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-4
1404 Installation of Wall Coverings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
1405 Combustible Materials on the Exterior Side of
Exterior Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-16
1406 Metal Composite Material (MCM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-17
1407 Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). . . . 14-18
1408 High-Pressure Decorative Exterior-Grade Compact Laminates (HPL). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-18
1409 Insulated Metal Panel (IMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-19
1410 Plastic Composite Decking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-21 1411 Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems for Exterior Wall Coverings and Fenestration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-21
CBC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt entire chapter X X X X X Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X X X X X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowX X X Chapter / Section 1401 X 1402 X 1402.2.1 X 1403 X 1404 X 1404.1.2 X X X X X X X 1404.3.3 X 1405 X 1406 X 1407 X 1408 X 1411 X 1412 X 1413 X X X X X 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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14-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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14 EXTERIOR WALLS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 14 addresses requirements for exterior walls of buildings. Minimum standards for wall covering materials, such as material performance and fire resistance, installation of wall coverings and the ability of the wall to provide weather protection are provided. This chapter also contains limitations on the areas and heights of combustible wall coverings based on fire separation distances, radiant heat exposure and surface burning characteristics.
CBC § 1409.7.2. Medium relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
Assemblies protected on the outside with one of the following:
- A thermal barrier complying with Section 1409.7.2.
- Concrete or masonry not less than 1 inch (25 mm) in thickness.
- Glass-fiber-reinforced concrete panels not less than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm) in thickness.
- Metal-faced panels having outer facings not less in thickness than 0.019 inch (0.48 mm) aluminum or 0.016 inch (0.41 mm) corrosion-resistant steel.
- Stucco not less than [7] / 8 inch (22.2 mm) in thickness, complying with Section 2510.
- Fiber-cement lap, panel or shingle siding complying with Section 1404.17 and Section 1404.17.1 or 1404.17.2, and having a thickness of not less than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm).
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1409.8 Type V construction. IMP shall be permitted for use in Type V construction.
1409.9 Labeling. Unless otherwise specified, the edge or face of each IMP or package shall bear the label of an approved agency. The label shall contain the manufacturer’s or distributor’s identification, model number, serial number or definitive information describing the product or materials’ performance characteristics and approved agency’s identification.
1409.9.1 Foam plastic core. IMP having a foam plastic core shall be labeled in accordance with Sections 2603.2 and 2603.5.6, as applicable.
SECTION 1410—PLASTIC COMPOSITE DECKING
[BS] 1410.1 Plastic composite decking. Exterior deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards constructed of plastic composites, including plastic lumber, shall comply with Section 2612.
SECTION 1411—BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) SYSTEMS FOR EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND FENESTRATION
1411.1 Listing required. In addition to complying with other provisions of this code, building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems used as exterior wall coverings or fenestration shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2.
SECTION 1412—SOFFITS AND FASCIAS AT ROOF OVERHANGS
1412.1 General. Soffits and fascias at roof overhangs shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section.
1412.2 General wind requirements. Soffits and fascias shall be capable of resisting the component and cladding loads for walls determined in accordance with Chapter 16 using an effective wind area of 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ).
1412.3 Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels. Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels shall comply with Section 1412.2, shall be installed using fasteners specified by the manufacturer and shall be fastened at both ends to a supporting component such as a nailing strip, fascia or subfascia component in accordance with Figure 1412.3(1).
CBC § 1410.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 1410—PLASTIC COMPOSITE DECKING
[BS] 1410.1 Plastic composite decking. Exterior deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards constructed of plastic composites, including plastic lumber, shall comply with Section 2612.
SECTION 1411—BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) SYSTEMS FOR EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND FENESTRATION
1411.1 Listing required. In addition to complying with other provisions of this code, building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems used as exterior wall coverings or fenestration shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2.
SECTION 1412—SOFFITS AND FASCIAS AT ROOF OVERHANGS
1412.1 General. Soffits and fascias at roof overhangs shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section.
1412.2 General wind requirements. Soffits and fascias shall be capable of resisting the component and cladding loads for walls determined in accordance with Chapter 16 using an effective wind area of 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ).
1412.3 Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels. Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels shall comply with Section 1412.2, shall be installed using fasteners specified by the manufacturer and shall be fastened at both ends to a supporting component such as a nailing strip, fascia or subfascia component in accordance with Figure 1412.3(1). Where the unsupported span of soffit panels is greater than 12 inches (406 mm) and the design wind pressure is greater than 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or the unsupported span of soffit panels is greater than 16 inches (406 mm) and the wind pressure is 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or less, intermediate nailing strips shall be provided in accordance with Figure 1412.3(2). Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
FIGURE 1412.3(1)—SINGLE-SPAN VINYL OR ALUMINUM SOFFIT PANEL SUPPORT
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
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FIGURE 1412.3(2)—DOUBLE-SPAN VINYL OR ALUMINUM SOFFIT PANEL SUPPORT
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
1412.4 Fiber-cement soffit panels. Fiber-cement soffit panels shall comply with Section 1412.2, shall be not less than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness and shall comply with the requirements of ASTM C1186, Type A, minimum Grade II, or ISO 8336, Category A, minimum Class 2. Panel joints shall occur over framing or over wood structural panel sheathing. Soffit panels shall be installed with spans and fasteners in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CBC § 1.1.9 Medium relevance — show source text
1.1.9 Effective date of this code. Only those standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission that are effective at the time an application for building permit is submitted shall apply to the plans and specifications for, and to the construction performed under, that permit. For the effective dates of the provisions contained in this code, see the History Note page of this code.
Exceptions: (1) [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12. (2) [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Plans approved by the Department of Housing and Community Development or a Department-approved design approval agency for factory-built housing as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 19971. Approved plans, pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, Article 3, Section 3048 remain valid for a period of 36 months from the date of plan approval.
1.1.10 Availability of codes. At least one complete copy each of Titles 8, 19, 20, 24 and 25 with all revisions shall be maintained in the office of the building official responsible for the administration and enforcement of this code. Each state department concerned and each city, county, or city and county shall have an up-to-date copy of the code available for public inspection. See Health and Safety Code Section 18942(e)(1) and (2).
1.1.11 Format. This part fundamentally adopts the International Existing Building Code by reference on a chapter-by-chapter basis. When a specific chapter of the International Existing Building Code is not printed in the code and is marked “Reserved”, such chapter of the International Existing Building Code is not adopted as a portion of this code. When a specific chapter of the International Existing Building Code is marked “Not adopted by the State of California” but appears in the code, it may be available for adoption by local ordinance, provided such ordinance and related model code provisions do not conflict with Title 24 provisions applicable to the subject occupancy or building feature.
Note: Matrix Adoption Tables at the front of each chapter may aid the code user in determining which chapter or sections within a chapter are applicable to buildings under the authority of a specific state agency, but they are not to be considered regulatory.
1.1.12 Validity. If any chapter, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, contrary to statute, exceeding the authority of the state as stipulated by statutes or otherwise inoperative, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this code.
SECTION 1.2—BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION
1.2.1 BSC. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated. 1. State buildings for all occupancies.
Application— State buildings (all occupancies), including buildings constructed by the Trustees of the California State University (CSU) and the Regents of the University of California (UC) where no state agency has the authority to adopt building standards applicable to such buildings.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Section 18934.5.
CBC § 1.1.10 Medium relevance — show source text
1.1.10 Availability of codes. At least one complete copy each of Titles 8, 19, 20, 24 and 25 with all revisions shall be maintained in the office of the building official responsible for the administration and enforcement of this code. Each state department concerned and each city, county, or city and county shall have an up-to-date copy of the code available for public inspection. See Health and Safety Code Section 18942(e)(1) and (2).
1.1.11 Format. This part fundamentally adopts the International Building Code by reference on a chapter-by-chapter basis. When a specific chapter of the International Building Code is not printed in the code and is marked “Reserved”, such chapter of the International Building Code is not adopted as a portion of this code. When a specific chapter of the International Building Code is marked “Not adopted by the State of California” but appears in the code, it may be available for adoption by local ordinance.
Note: Matrix Adoption Tables at the front of each chapter may aid the code user in determining which chapter or sections within a chapter are applicable to buildings under the authority of a specific state agency, but they are not to be considered regulatory.
1.1.12 Validity. If any chapter, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, contrary to statute, exceeding the authority of the state as stipulated by statutes or otherwise inoperative, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this code.
SECTION 1.2—BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION
1.2.1 BSC. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated. 1. State buildings for all occupancies.
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ADMINISTRATION
Application— State buildings (all occupancies), including buildings constructed by the Trustees of the California State University (CSU) and the Regents of the University of California (UC) where no state agency has the authority to adopt build- ing standards applicable to such buildings.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Section 18934.5.
Reference— Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.5, commencing with Section 18901. 2. University of California, California State Universities and California Community Colleges.
Application— Standards for lighting for parking lots and primary campus walkways at the University of California, Califor- nia State Universities and California Community Colleges.
Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law.
Authority cited— Government Code Section 14617.
Reference— Government Code Section 14617.
3. Existing state-owned buildings, including those owned by the University of California and by the California State University.
CBC § 11B-8 Medium relevance — show source text
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 36.304) or the accessibility requirements of this code as those requirements or regulations now exist or are hereafter amended including, but not limited to, 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. Installing ramps. 2. Making curb cuts in sidewalks and entrance. 3. Repositioning shelves. 4. Rearranging tables, chairs, vending machines, display racks and other furniture. 5. Repositioning telephones. 6. Adding raised markings on elevator control buttons. 7. Installing flashing alarm lights. 8. Widening doors. 9. Installing offset hinges to widen doorways. 10. Eliminating a turnstile or providing an alternative accessible route. 11. Installing accessible door hardware. 12. Installing grab bars in toilet stalls. 13. Rearranging toilet partitions to increase maneuvering space. 14. Insulating lavatory pipes under sinks to prevent burns. 15. Installing a raised toilet seat. 16. Installing a full-length bathroom mirror. 17. Repositioning the paper towel dispenser in a bathroom. 18. Creating designated accessible parking spaces. 19. Removing high-pile, low-density carpeting. 5. Alterations of existing parking lots by resurfacing and/or restriping shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4. 6. The addition or replacement of signs and/or identification devices shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4. 7. _Projects consisting only of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, reroofing,
CBC § 517.34. Medium relevance — show source text
12. Transformers.
13. Electrical substations.
14. UPS and batteries.
15. Panelboards as defined in the California Electrical Code (CEC) Article 100. 16. Industrial control panels as defined in the California Electrical Code (CEC) Article 100. 17. Power isolation and correction systems. 18. Motorized surgical lighting systems. 19. Motorized operating table systems. 20. Internal communication servers, routers and switches failure of which could impair the continued operation of the facility. 21. Medical gas and vacuum systems. 22. Electrical busways as defined in UL 857. 23. Electrical control panels powered by the life safety branch in accordance with the California Electrical Code (CEC) Article 517.33 or the critical branch in accordance with the California Electrical Code (CEC) Article 517.34.
Exceptions: 1. Equipment and components weighing not more than 75 lbs. rigidly attached to structures or surface mounted on equipment or components that are not required to have special seismic certification by this section. 2. Mobile equipment/components. 3. Pipes, ducts, conduits and cable trays, excluding in-line equipment and components. 4. Underground tanks. 5. Electric motors, base-mounted horizontal pumps and compressors. 6. Based-mounted vertical pumps up to 20 hp. 7. Substitution of certified active subcomponents up to operating weight of 10 lbs. 8. Components where importance factor, I p , is permitted to be 1.0 by this code. 9. Emergency generators up to 25 kilowatts. 10. Equipment and components used for clinical trials only. 11. Elevator machines and governors. 12. Temporary and Interim equipment.
For Exceptions 5, 6 and 7:
Exempt subcomponents, which are an integral part of equipment that require special seismic certification, shall be tested attached to the equipment. Exempt subcomponents shall be permitted to be substituted without testing, provided that the substituted subcomponent relative to the certified subcomponent has: 1. Similar configuration with equivalent function. 2. Supports and attachments of similar configuration with equivalent strength and stiffness.
3. Same attachment location.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
4. Changes in dimensions, center of gravity and mass, of not more than 10 percent of the certified subcomponent and still meets Exception 5, 6 or 7. 5. Manufacturing process with ISO 9001 certification.
1705 A .14.4 Seismic isolation and damping systems. Seismic isolation and damping systems in structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F shall be tested in accordance with Section 17.8 and 18.6 of ASCE 7.
Prototype and production testing and associated acceptance criteria for isolator units and damping devices shall be subject to preapproval by the building official. Testing exemption for similar units shall require approval by the building official.
CBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Spacing at intermediate supports is permitted to be 12 inches on center.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Fasteners shall comply with Section 1412.6.
b. Maximum spacing of soffit framing members shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm).
c. Wood structural panels shall be of an exterior exposure grade.
d. Wood structural panels shall be installed with strength axis perpendicular to supports with a minimum of two continuous spans.
e. Wood structural panels shall be attached to soffit framing members with specific gravity of at least 0.42. Framing members shall be minimum 2″ x 3″ nominal with the larger
dimension in the cross section aligning with the length of fasteners to provide sufficient embedment depths.
f. Spacing at intermediate supports is permitted to be 12 inches on center.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Fasteners shall comply with Section 1412.6.
b. Maximum spacing of soffit framing members shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm).
c. Wood structural panels shall be of an exterior exposure grade.
d. Wood structural panels shall be installed with strength axis perpendicular to supports with a minimum of two continuous spans.
e. Wood structural panels shall be attached to soffit framing members with specific gravity of at least 0.42. Framing members shall be minimum 2″ x 3″ nominal with the larger
dimension in the cross section aligning with the length of fasteners to provide sufficient embedment depths.
f. Spacing at intermediate supports is permitted to be 12 inches on center.|1412.7 Aluminum fascia. Aluminum fascia shall comply with Section 1412.2 and shall be not less than 0.019 inches (0.48 mm) in thickness and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Aluminum fascia shall be attached to wood frame construc tion in accordance with Section 1412.7.1 or 1412.7.2.
1412.7.1 Fascia installation where the design wind pressure is 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or less. Where the design wind pressure is 30 pounds per square foot (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or less, aluminum fascia shall be a attached with one finish nail (1 [1] / 4 inches × 0.057 inch × 0.177 inch head diameter) (32 mm × 1.4 mm × 4.5 mm) in the return leg spaced not greater than 24 inches (610 mm) on center, and the fascia shall be inserted under the drip edge with not less than 1 inch (25 mm) of fascia material covered by the drip edge. Where the fascia cannot be inserted under the drip edge, the top edge of the fascia shall be secured using one finish nail (1 [1] / 4 inches × 0.057 inch × 0.177 inch head diameter) (32 mm × 1.4 mm × 4.5 mm) located not more than 1 inch (25 mm) below the drip edge and spaced not greater than 24 inches (610 mm) on center. 1412.7.2 Fascia installation where the design wind pressure exceeds 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] **).
Frequently asked questions
Where in the CBC do I find the 10% HPL area limit and the 40‑ft allowance?
The 10% area limit for HPL when the fire separation distance is 5 ft or less (and the alternate allowance up to 40 ft) is in § 1408.11.1.1–.1.2.
If my IMP has a foam core, do I always need additional fire testing?
IMP with combustible (foam) core must follow the combustible‑core requirements in § 1409.7 and the general fire‑resistance evidence rules in § 1409.5; noncombustible core IMP follow § 1409.6. Check combustibility per § 703.3 and submit tests/analyses as required.
Can BIPV be used as a finished exterior wall without extra approvals?
Only if the BIPV system is listed and labeled per UL 1703 or UL 61730‑1 & ‑2 in addition to meeting other applicable code provisions; see § 1411.1.
What soffit span rules trigger extra supports?
For vinyl or aluminum soffit panels, intermediate supports are required when unsupported span > 12" and design wind pressure > 30 psf, or when unsupported span > 16" at ≤ 30 psf; see § 1412.3 and the associated figures.
Where do I find labeling requirements for HPL and IMP?
HPL labeling is required by § 1408.14 (see also § 1703.5); IMP labeling requirements are in § 1409.9 and § 1409.9.1 for foam cores.
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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