CBC · California Building Code

Requirements for doors, gates and turnstiles in egress

In plain terms: the CBC requires egress doors to give at least a 32‑inch clear opening (44 inches for some patient movement doors), keep thresholds and swing from reducing required corridor width beyond tight limits (no more than a 7‑inch encroachment when fully open and never more than half the required width in any position), and ensures gates/turnstiles meet extra rules (manual release on power loss, size/credit limits, and accessible‑route restrictions). If you’re designing or evaluating an egress path, check § 1010 (doors, gates, turnstiles) and the encroachment rule in § 1005.7.1 and coordinate with the authority having jurisdiction for unusual devices .

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The CBC requires means‑of‑egress doors, gates and turnstiles to provide minimum clear opening dimensions, be operable from the egress side without special knowledge, and not reduce the required egress width beyond specified limits. The primary sizing and encroachment rules are in § 1010.1.1 and the encroachment limits for door swing are in § 1005.7.1. These provisions are supplemented by operation, locking and special‑device rules in Section 1010 (doors, gates and turnstiles) and related accessibility text in Chapter 11 where applicable .

Requirements in detail

Minimum clear opening and heights (doors)

  • Minimum clear opening width for a required egress door is 32 inches; measure the clear width between the face of the door and the frame stop with the door open 90° (§ 1010.1.1). Minimum clear height is 80 inches (§ 1010.1.1) .
  • Exception for certain clinical or patient movement doors in Group I‑2 or ambulatory care: those doors used for movement of beds/stretcher patients must provide a 44‑inch clear opening (§ 1010.1.1) .
  • Where a pair of leaves is used without a mullion, at least one leaf must individually provide the required single‑leaf clear width (§ 1010.1.1) .

Door operation, hardware and locking

  • Egress doors must be readily openable from the egress side without key or special knowledge (§ 1010.2) .
  • Unlatching must be accomplished with one motion in one linear or rotational direction; manual bolts are generally not permitted (§ 1010.2.1) .
  • Hardware height: operating devices (handles, levers, panic bars) shall be mounted 34 in. minimum and 48 in. maximum above the finished floor (§ 1010.2.3) .
  • Panic and fire‑exit hardware are required for many doors serving higher occupant loads or certain occupancies; see § 1010.2.8 for triggers and installation requirements (§ 1010.2.8) .
  • Special powered sliding/folding doors used as egress components must meet the design and force limits listed in § 1010.3.3 (power backup, simple operation, force limits and timed opening) (§ 1010.3.3) .

Gates

  • Gates used in means‑of‑egress must comply with the gate provisions of Section 1010 and otherwise meet the door requirements when they are components of the egress path (§ 1010.4) .
  • Stadium perimeter gates have a limited exception to panic hardware when under constant immediate supervision and safe dispersal areas are provided (§ 1010.4.1) .

Turnstiles and similar devices

  • Turnstiles that restrict travel one direction must not obstruct required means of egress except where the turnstiles meet the enumerated conditions (§ 1010.5) .
  • Capacity and crediting: a turnstile may be credited for egress only when all conditions of § 1010.5.1 are met. When credited, each device is based on a maximum 50‑person occupant load and in no case credited for more than 50% of the required egress capacity/width (§ 1010.5.1) .
  • Physical limits for credited turnstiles: maximum 39 inches high; clear passage minimums of 16-1/2 inches at and below 39 in. and 22 inches above 39 in. (§ 1010.5.1) .
  • Accessible routes and turnstiles: where a turnstile is on an accessible route, larger clearances apply (see § 1010.5.1.1: not less than 36 inches clear at and below 34 in., and 32 inches clear between 34 and 80 in.) — revolving mechanisms are prohibited as part of an accessible route (§ 1010.5.1.1 and Chapter 11 accessibility text) .
  • High turnstiles (>39 in.) must meet revolving door requirements or the security access turnstile rules (§ 1010.5.3) and where occupant load served >300 a side‑hinged conforming door is required within 50 feet (§ 1010.5.3–.4) .

Encroachment of doors into required width

  • A door, when fully opened, shall not reduce the required means‑of‑egress width by more than 7 inches. In any door position, the door shall not reduce the required width by more than one‑half of the required width (§ 1005.7.1) .
  • Exception (non‑I‑2 occupancies): surface‑mounted latch release hardware can be excluded from the 7‑inch encroachment if mounted on the side of the door away from the adjacent wall and between 34 in. and 48 in. above the floor (§ 1005.7.1, Exception 1) .

Decision‑relevant dimensions and values

Item Value / limit Code reference
Minimum clear opening width (single required egress door) 32 in. (813 mm) § 1010.1.1
Minimum clear opening height 80 in. (2032 mm) § 1010.1.1
I‑2/stretcher/beds clear opening 44 in. (1118 mm) § 1010.1.1
Door encroachment when fully opened ≤ 7 in. (178 mm) § 1005.7.1
Door encroachment in any position ≤ 1/2 of required width § 1005.7.1
Turnstile max credited height 39 in. (991 mm) § 1010.5.1
Turnstile clear width (≤39 in. height) ≥ 16.5 in. (419 mm) § 1010.5.1
Turnstile clear width (>39 in. height) ≥ 22 in. (559 mm) § 1010.5.1
Accessible turnstile clear widths ≥ 36 in. at/below 34 in.; ≥ 32 in. between 34–80 in. § 1010.5.1.1
Revolving doors/turnstiles on accessible route Not permitted § 11B-404.3.7 (Chapter 11B)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Dwelling/sleeping unit doors: some interior doors in Group R occupancies not part of the required means of egress are exempt from the minimum width in § 1010.1.1 (see listed exceptions) .
  • Surface‑mounted latch release hardware: under the stated mounting and height conditions, the latch may be exempt from the 7‑inch fully‑open encroachment limit in other than Group I‑2 (§ 1005.7.1, Exception 1) .
  • Stadium gates: panic hardware may be omitted on stadium perimeter gates when constant immediate supervision and required safe dispersal areas are provided (§ 1010.4.1) .
  • Power‑operated doors: special force and manual‑operation requirements apply (see § 1010.3.2 and § 1010.3.3 for special‑purpose doors) — these include manual operation capability on power loss, and tighter force limits for some special doors (§ 1010.3.2, § 1010.3.3) .
  • Turnstiles serving very large occupant loads: where occupant load served is greater than 300, nonportable turnstiles must have a conforming side‑hinged swinging door within 50 ft (unless a security‑access turnstile exception applies) (§ 1010.5.4) .

If a specific device or condition (for example a novel automated gate type or an atypical turnstile geometry) is not explicitly described in § 1010 or § 1005.7.1, the code requires applying the applicable provisions in Section 1010 and Chapter 10 general egress sizing and the enforcing agency’s interpretation — the uploaded CBC excerpts do not contain text for every potential special device, so consult the full code and the authority having jurisdiction for designs not clearly covered in § 1010/§ 1005.7.1 .

Common mistakes

  • Measuring clear opening incorrectly: the clear width for swinging doors is measured between the face of the door and the frame stop with the door open 90°; using other measurement methods causes errors (§ 1010.1.1) .
  • Allowing a door, when fully open, to encroach more than 7 in. into a required egress width or allowing any position to reduce width by more than half — both violate § 1005.7.1 .
  • Crediting turnstiles at full egress width or occupant capacity without verifying the § 1010.5.1 conditions (manual release on power loss, ≤39 in. height, clear widths, not more than 50% credit) .
  • Using revolving doors or revolving turnstiles as part of an accessible route — Chapter 11 bars this use (§ 11B‑404.3.7) .
  • Omitting required side‑hinged egress doors adjacent to fixed turnstiles when occupant load thresholds in § 1010.5.4 apply .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A corridor/egress component has a required clear width of 44 inches. A single swinging egress door opens into the corridor.

  1. Maximum allowed encroachment when the door is fully open = 7 in. per § 1005.7.1. Available clear width after full‑open encroachment = 44 in. − 7 in. = 37 in. (§ 1005.7.1) .
  2. The “any position” rule: the door in any position must not reduce the required width by more than one‑half. One‑half of 44 in. = 22 in.; so the door must not block more than 22 in. in any position (§ 1005.7.1) .
  3. If the door has surface‑mounted latch release hardware mounted on the side of the door away from the adjacent wall and at 36 in. above floor, that hardware may be exempted from the 7‑inch fully‑open encroachment calculation (non‑I‑2 occupancy) (§ 1005.7.1, Exception 1) .
  4. If, instead of a swinging leaf, the egress path used a turnstile that met § 1010.5.1 conditions, that turnstile could be credited for up to a 50‑person occupant load and for up to 50% of the required egress capacity/width; but you must still provide enough total width and not credit more than 50% of the required width to turnstiles (§ 1010.5.1) .

Related provisions

  • § 1010.1.1 — Minimum door size and clear opening requirements (doors)
  • § 1010.2 — Door operation, unlatching, hardware and locks rules (§ 1010.2.1–.4)
  • § 1010.3.2 / § 1010.3.3 — Power‑operated and special‑purpose sliding/folding door criteria and force limits (§ 1010.3.2, § 1010.3.3)
  • § 1010.3.4 — Security grille rules for certain occupancies
  • § 1010.4 / § 1010.4.1 — Gates and stadium gate exceptions for panic hardware
  • § 1010.5 / § 1010.5.1 / § 1010.5.1.1 / § 1010.5.3 / § 1010.5.4 — Turnstile capacity, clearances, accessible‑route rules, high‑turnstile and additional‑door rules
  • § 1005.7.1 — Door encroachment into required egress width (primary encroachment rule)
  • § 11B‑404.3.7 — Accessibility prohibition on revolving doors/turnstiles as part of an accessible route (Chapter 11B)

Code references

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

  • CBC § 1.9.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1010—DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

    [DSA-AC] In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.5 and 11B-404, as applicable.

    1010.1 General. Doors in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.1.1 through 1010.3.4. Exterior exit doors shall also comply with the requirements of Section 1022.2. Gates in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.4 and 1010.4.1. Turnstiles in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.5 through 1010.5.4.

    Doors, gates and turnstiles provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall comply with the requirements of this section.

    Doors in the means of egress shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials.

    1010.1.1 Size of doors. The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). The clear opening width of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the frame stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). Where this section requires a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). In Group I-2 or an ambulatory care facility, doors serving as means of egress doors where used for the movement of beds and stretcher patients shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm). Where this section requires a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm). The minimum clear opening height of doors shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm).

    Exceptions:

    1. In Group R-2 and R-3 dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be adaptable or accessible as specified in Chapter 11A, the minimum width shall not apply to door openings that are not part of the required means of egress.
    2. In Group I-3, door openings to resident sleeping units that are not required to be adaptable or accessible as specified in Chapter 11A shall have a minimum clear opening width of 28 inches (711 mm).
    3. Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) in area shall not be limited by the minimum clear opening width.
    4. Door openings within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall have a minimum clear opening height of 78 inches (1981 mm).
  • CBC § 716.2.6.6 High relevance — show source text

    The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides. 3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width. 4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device. 5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716. 6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply. 7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised. 8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.

    1010.3.4 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

    1010.4 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

    1010.4.1 Stadiums. Panic hardware is not required on gates surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present, and where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed space. See Section 1028.5 for means of egress from safe dispersal areas.

    1010.5 Turnstiles and similar devices. Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress, except where permitted in accordance with Sections 1010.5.1, 1010.5.2 and 1010.5.3.

    1010.5.1 Capacity. Each turnstile or similar device shall be credited with a capacity based on not more than a 50-person occupant load where all of the following provisions are met:

    1. Each device shall turn free in the direction of egress travel when primary power is lost and on the manual release by an employee in the area.
    2. Such devices are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity or width.
    3. Each device is not more than 39 inches (991 mm) high.
    4. Each device has not less than 16 [1] / 2 inches (419 mm) clear width at and below a height of 39 inches (991 mm) and not less than 22 inches (559 mm) clear width at heights above 39 inches (991 mm).

    10-28 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

  • CBC § 1010.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1010—DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

    [BE] 1010.1 Doors. Doors in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.1.1 through 1010.3.4. Exterior exit doors shall also comply with the requirements of Section 1022.2. Gates in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.4 and 1010.4.1. Turnstiles in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.5 through 1010.5.4.

    Doors, gates and turnstiles provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall comply with the requirements of this section.

    Doors in the means of egress shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials.

    [BE] 1010.1.1 Size of doors. The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). The clear opening width of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the frame stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). Where this section requires a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). In Group I-2 or an ambulatory care facility, doors serving as means of egress doors where used for the movement of beds and stretcher patients shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm). Where this section requires a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm). The minimum clear opening height of doors shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm).

    Exceptions:

    1. In Group R-2 and R-3 dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit, the minimum width shall not apply to door openings that are not part of the required means of egress.
    2. Group I-3 door openings to resident sleeping units that are not required to be an Accessible unit shall have a minimum clear opening width of 28 inches (711 mm).
    3. Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) in area shall not be limited by the minimum clear opening width.
    4. Door openings within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall have a minimum clear opening height of 78 inches (1981 mm).
    5. In dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible, Type A or Type B units, exterior door openings, other than the required exit door, shall have a minimum clear opening height of 76 inches (1930 mm).
    6. In Groups R-2, R-3 and R-4, in dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible, Type A or Type B units, the minimum clear opening widths shall not apply to interior egress doors.
  • CBC § 1009.10 High relevance — show source text

    1009.10 Directional signage. Directional signage complying with Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.5 indicating the location of all other means of egress and which of those are accessible means of egress shall be provided at the following:

    1. At exits serving a required accessible space but not providing an approved accessible means of egress.
    2. At elevator landings.
    3. Within areas of refuge.

    1009.11 Instructions. In areas of refuge, exterior areas for assisted rescue and locations required to provide two-way communications systems complying with Section 1009.8, instructions on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be posted.

    10-18 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    Signage shall comply with the Chapter 11A, Section 1143A or Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.5 requirements for visual characters. The instructions shall include all of the following:

    1. Persons able to use the exit stairway do so as soon as possible, unless they are assisting others.

    2. Information on planned availability of assistance in the use of stairs or supervised operation of elevators and how to summon such assistance.

    3. Directions for use of the two-way communication system where provided.

    1009.12 Alarms/emergency warning systems/two-way communication systems. Required emergency warning systems shall activate a means of warning the hearing impaired. Emergency warning systems provided as part of the fire-alarm system and two-way communica- tion systems required by Chapter 10 shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 as amended in Chapter 35.

    SECTION 1010—DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

    [DSA-AC] In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-206.5 and 11B-404, as applicable.

    1010.1 General. Doors in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.1.1 through 1010.3.4. Exterior exit doors shall also comply with the requirements of Section 1022.2. Gates in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.4 and 1010.4.1. Turnstiles in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.5 through 1010.5.4.

    Doors, gates and turnstiles provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall comply with the requirements of this section.

    Doors in the means of egress shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials.

    1010.1.1 Size of doors. The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm).

  • CBC § 1010.3.4 High relevance — show source text
    1. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.

    [BE] 1010.3.4 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

    [BE] 1010.4 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

    [BE] 1010.4.1 Stadiums. Panic hardware is not required on gates surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present, and where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed space. See Section 1028.5 for means of egress from safe dispersal areas.

    [BE] 1010.5 Turnstiles and similar devices. Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress, except where permitted in accordance with Sections 1010.5.1, 1010.5.2 and 1010.5.3.

    [BE] 1010.5.1 Capacity. Each turnstile or similar device shall be credited with a capacity based on not more than a 50-person occupant load where all of the following provisions are met:

    1. Each device shall turn free in the direction of egress travel when primary power is lost and on the manual release by an employee in the area.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 10-29

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1. Such devices are not given credit for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity or width.
    2. Each device is not more than 39 inches (991 mm) high.
    3. Each device has not less than 16 [1] / 2 inches (419 mm) clear width at and below a height of 39 inches (991 mm) and not less than 22 inches (559 mm) clear width at heights above 39 inches (991 mm).

    [BE] 1010.5.1.1 Clear width. Where located as part of an accessible route, turnstiles shall have not less than 36 inches (914 mm) clear width at and below a height of 34 inches (864 mm), not less than 32 inches (813 mm) clear width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) and shall consist of a mechanism other than a revolving device.

  • CBC § 1009.10 High relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1009.10 Directional signage. Directional signage complying with Chapter 11B, Section 11B-703.5, indicating the location of all other means of egress and which of those are accessible means of egress shall be provided at the following:

    1. At exits serving a required accessible space but not providing an approved accessible means of egress.
    2. At elevator landings.
    3. Within areas of refuge.

    [BE] 1009.11 Instructions. In areas of refuge, exterior areas for assisted rescue and locations required to provide two-way communications systems complying with Section 1009.8, instructions on the use of the area under emergency conditions shall be posted. Signage shall comply with the ICC A117.1 requirements for visual characters. The instructions shall include all of the following:

    1. Persons able to use the exit stairway do so as soon as possible, unless they are assisting others.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 10-19

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

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1. Information on planned availability of assistance in the use of stairs or supervised operation of elevators and how to summon such assistance.

    2. Directions for use of the two-way communication system where provided.

    1009.12 Alarms and emergency warning systems and two-way communication systems. Required emergency warning systems shall activate a means of warning the hearing impaired. Emergency warning systems provided as part of the fire-alarm system and two-way communication systems required by Chapter 10 shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72 as amended in Chapter 80.

    SECTION 1010—DOORS, GATES AND TURNSTILES

    [BE] 1010.1 Doors. Doors in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.1.1 through 1010.3.4. Exterior exit doors shall also comply with the requirements of Section 1022.2. Gates in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.4 and 1010.4.1. Turnstiles in the means of egress shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1010.5 through 1010.5.4.

    Doors, gates and turnstiles provided for egress purposes in numbers greater than required by this code shall comply with the requirements of this section.

    Doors in the means of egress shall be readily distinguishable from the adjacent construction and finishes such that the doors are easily recognizable as doors. Mirrors or similar reflecting materials shall not be used on means of egress doors. Means of egress doors shall not be concealed by curtains, drapes, decorations or similar materials.

    [BE] 1010.1.1 Size of doors. The required capacity of each door opening shall be sufficient for the occupant load thereof and shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm). The clear opening width of doorways with swinging doors shall be measured between the face of the door and the frame stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). Where this section requires a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 32 inches (813 mm).

  • CBC § 1010.3.3 High relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1010.3.3 Special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, specialpurpose horizontal sliding, accordion, or folding door assemblies permitted to be a component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1010.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria:

    1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure.
    2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides.
    3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width.
    4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device.
    5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6 of the California Building Code, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716 of the California Building Code .
    6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply.
    7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised.
    8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.

    [BE] 1010.3.4 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

    [BE] 1010.4 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

    [BE] 1010.4.1 Stadiums. Panic hardware is not required on gates surrounding stadiums where such gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present, and where safe dispersal areas based on 3 square feet (0.28 m [2] ) per occupant are located between the fence and enclosed space. Such required safe dispersal areas shall not be located less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the enclosed space. See Section 1028.5 for means of egress from safe dispersal areas.

    [BE] 1010.5 Turnstiles and similar devices. Turnstiles or similar devices that restrict travel to one direction shall not be placed so as to obstruct any required means of egress, except where permitted in accordance with Sections 1010.5.1, 1010.5.2 and 1010.5.3.

  • CBC § 404.3 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 404.3 Automatic and power-assisted doors and gates. Automatic doors and automatic gates shall comply with Section 11B- 404.3. Full-powered automatic doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.10. Low-energy and power-assisted doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19.

    11B- 404.3.1 Clear width. Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum in power-on and power-off mode. The minimum clear width for automatic door systems in a doorway shall provide a clear, unobstructed opening of 32 inches (813 mm) with one leaf positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position.

    11B- 404.3.2 Maneuvering clearance. Clearances at power-assisted doors and gates shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.4. Clearances at automatic doors and gates without standby power and serving an accessible means of egress shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.4.

    Exception: Where automatic doors and gates remain open in the power-off condition, compliance with Section 11B- 404.2.4 shall not be required.

    11B- 404.3.3 Thresholds. Thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.5.

    11B- 404.3.4 Doors in series and gates in series. Doors in series and gates in series shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.6.

    11B- 404.3.5 Controls. Manually operated controls shall comply with Section 11B- 309. The clear floor space adjacent to the control shall be located beyond the arc of the door swing.

    11B- 404.3.6 Break out opening. Where doors and gates without standby power are a part of a means of egress, the clear break out opening at swinging or sliding doors and gates shall be 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum when operated in emergency mode.

    Exception: Where manual swinging doors and gates comply with Section 11B- 404.2 and serve the same means of egress compliance with Section 11B- 404.3.6 shall not be required.

    11B- 404.3.7 Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles. Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route.

    11B-56 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    SECTION 11B- 405 — RAMPS

    11B- 405.1 General. Ramps on accessible routes shall comply with Section 11B- 405 .

    Exception: In assembly areas, aisle ramps adjacent to seating and not serving elements required to be on an accessible route shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 405 .

    11B- 405.2 Slope. Ramp runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

    Exception: Reserved.

  • CBC § 404.3.6 High relevance — show source text

    11B- 404.3.6 Break out opening. Where doors and gates without standby power are a part of a means of egress, the clear break out opening at swinging or sliding doors and gates shall be 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum when operated in emergency mode.

    Exception: Where manual swinging doors and gates comply with Section 11B- 404.2 and serve the same means of egress compliance with Section 11B- 404.3.6 shall not be required.

    11B- 404.3.7 Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles. Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route.

    11B-56 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    SECTION 11B- 405 — RAMPS

    11B- 405.1 General. Ramps on accessible routes shall comply with Section 11B- 405 .

    Exception: In assembly areas, aisle ramps adjacent to seating and not serving elements required to be on an accessible route shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 405 .

    11B- 405.2 Slope. Ramp runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

    Exception: Reserved.

    11B- 405.3 Cross slope. Cross slope of ramp runs shall not be steeper than 1:48.

    11B- 405.4 Floor or ground surfaces. Floor or ground surfaces of ramp runs shall comply with Section 11B- 302. Changes in level other than the running slope and cross slope are not permitted on ramp runs.

    11B- 405.5 Clear width. The clear width of a ramp run shall be 48 inches (1219 mm) minimum .

    Exceptions:

    1. Within employee work areas, the required clear width of ramps that are a part of common use circulation paths shall be permitted to be decreased by work area equipment provided that the decrease is essential to the function of the work being performed. 2. Handrails may project into the required clear width of the ramp at each side 3 [1] / 2 inches (89 mm) maximum at the handrail height.

    3. The clear width of ramps in residential uses serving an occupant load of fifty or less shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum between handrails.

    11B- 405.6 Rise. The rise for any ramp run shall be 30 inches ( 762 mm) maximum.

    11B- 405.7 Landings. Ramps shall have landings at the top and the bottom of each ramp run. Landings shall comply with Section 11B- 405.7.

    11B- 405.7.1 Slope. Landings shall comply with Section 11B- 302. Changes in level, slopes exceeding 1:48, and detectable warnings shall not be permitted.

    Exception: Reserved.

  • CBC § 10-5 High relevance — show source text

    1002 Maintenance and Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1003 General Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1004 Occupant Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

    1005 Means of Egress Sizing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9

    1006 Number of Exits and Exit Access Doorways . . . . . 10-10

    1007 Exit and Exit Access Doorway Configuration . . . . 10-14

    1008 Means of Egress Illumination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14

    1009 Accessible Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15

    1010 Doors, Gates and Turnstiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-19

    1011 Stairways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-29

    1012 Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33

    1013 Exit Signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-34

    1014 Handrails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36

    1015 Guards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-37

    1016 Exit Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-39

    1017 Exit Access Travel Distance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40

    1018 Aisles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41

    1019 Exit Access Stairways and Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42

    1020 Corridors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42

    1021 Egress Balconies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44

    1022 Exits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44

  • CBC § 5.1. High relevance — show source text
    1. Each security access turnstile lane configuration has a minimum clear passage width of 22 inches (559 mm).
    2. Any security access turnstile lane configuration providing a clear passage width of less than 32 inches (810 mm) shall be credited with a maximum egress capacity of 50 persons.
    3. Any security access turnstile lane configuration providing a clear passage width of 32 inches (810 mm) or more shall be credited with a maximum egress capacity as calculated in accordance with Section 1005.
    4. Each secured physical barrier shall automatically retract or swing to an unobstructed open position in the direction of egress, under each of the following conditions: 5.1. Upon loss of power to the turnstile or any part of the access control system that secures the physical barrier. 5.2. Upon actuation of a clearly identified manual release device with ready access that results in direct interruption of power to each secured physical barrier, after which such barriers remain in the open position for not less than 30 seconds. The manual release device shall be positioned at one of the following locations: 5.2.1. On the egress side of each security access turnstile lane. 5.2.2. At an approved location where it can be actuated by an employee assigned to the area at all times that the building is occupied. 5.3. Upon actuation of the building fire alarm system, if provided, after which the physical barrier remains in the open position until the fire alarm system is manually reset.

    Exception: Actuation of a manual fire alarm box. 5.4. Upon actuation of the building automatic sprinkler system or fire detection system, after which the physical barrier remains in the open position until the fire alarm system is manually reset.

    [BE] 1010.5.3 High turnstile. Turnstiles more than 39 inches (991 mm) high shall meet the requirements for revolving doors or the requirements of Section 1010.5.2 for security access turnstiles.

    [BE] 1010.5.4 Additional door. Where serving an occupant load greater than 300, each turnstile that is not portable shall have a side-hinged swinging door that conforms to Section 1010.1 within 50 feet (15 240 mm).

    Exception: A side-hinged swinging door is not required at security access turnstiles that comply with Section 1010.5.2.

    SECTION 1011—STAIRWAYS

    [BE] 1011.1 General. Stairways serving occupied portions of a building shall comply with the requirements of Sections 1011.2 through 1011.13. Alternating tread devices shall comply with Section 1011.14. Ship’s ladders shall comply with Section 1011.15. Ladders shall comply with Section 1011.16. Exception: Within rooms or spaces used for assembly purposes, stepped aisles shall comply with Section 1030.

    [BE] 1011.2 Width and capacity. The required capacity of stairways shall be determined as specified in Section 1005.1, but the minimum width shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm). The minimum width for stairways that serve as part of the accessible means of egress shall comply with Section 1009.3. Exceptions:

    1. Stairways serving an occupant load of less than 50 shall have a width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
    2. Spiral stairways as provided for in Section 1011.10.
  • CBC § 1030.6.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1. Facilities with open-air assembly seating shall be permitted to the capacity factors in Section 1030.6.3 indicated for level or ramped aisles for means of egress components other than stairways where the entire path for means of egress from the seating to the exit discharge is open to the outdoors. 4. For Group H-1, H-2, H-3 and H-4 occupancies the total width of means of egress in inches (mm) shall not be less than the total occupant load served by the means of egress multiplied by 0.4 inches (5.08 mm) per occupant.

    1005.4 Continuity. The minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress required from any story of a building shall not be reduced along the path of egress travel until arrival at the public way.

    1005.5 Distribution of minimum width and required capacity. Where more than one exit, or access to more than one exit, is required, the means of egress shall be configured such that the loss of any one exit, or access to one exit, shall not reduce the available capacity or width to less than 50 percent of the required capacity or width.

    1005.6 Egress convergence. Where the means of egress from stories above and below converge at an intermediate level, the capacity of the means of egress from the point of convergence shall be not less than the largest minimum width or the sum of the required capacities for the stairways or ramps serving the two adjacent stories, whichever is larger.

    1005.7 Encroachment. Encroachments into the required means of egress width shall be in accordance with the provisions of this section.

    1005.7.1 Doors. Doors, when fully opened, shall not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches (178 mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-half.

    Exceptions:

    1. In other than Group I-2 occupancies, surface-mounted latch release hardware shall be exempt from inclusion in the 7inch maximum (178 mm) encroachment where both of the following conditions exist: 1.1. The hardware is mounted to the side of the door facing away from the adjacent wall where the door is in the open position. 1.2. The hardware is mounted not less than 34 inches (865 mm) nor more than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor.

    2. The restrictions on door swing shall not apply to doors within individual dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R-2 occupancies and dwelling units of Group R-3 occupancies.

    1005.7.2 Other projections. Handrail projections shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section 1014.9. Other nonstructural projections such as trim and similar decorative features shall be permitted to project into the required width not more than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) on each side.

    1005.7.3 Protruding objects. Protruding objects shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1003.3.

    SECTION 1006—NUMBER OF EXITS AND EXIT ACCESS DOORWAYS

    1006.1 General. The number of exits or exit access doorways required within the means of egress system shall comply with the provisions of Section 1006.2 for spaces, including mezzanines, and Section 1006.3 for stories or occupiable roofs.

  • CBC § 10-5 Medium relevance — show source text

    CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1001 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1002 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1003 General Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6 1004 Occupant Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-8 1005 Means of Egress Sizing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10 1006 Numbers of Exits and Exit Access Doorways. . . . . 10-11 1007 Exit and Exit Access Doorway Configuration . . . . 10-15 1008 Means of Egress Illumination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16 1009 Accessible Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-17 1010 Doors, Gates and Turnstiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20 1011 Stairways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30 101 2 Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-34 1013 Exit Signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35 1014 Handrails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  • CBC § 1010.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    1010.2 Door operations. Except as specifically permitted by this section, egress doors shall be readily openable from the egress side without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.

    1010.2.1 Unlatching. The unlatching of any door or leaf for egress shall require not more than one motion in a single linear or rotational direction to release all latching and all locking devices. Manual bolts are not permitted.

    Exceptions:

    1. Places of detention or restraint.

    2. Doors with manual bolts, automatic flush bolts and constant latching bolts as permitted by Section 1010.2.4, Item 4.

    3. Doors from individual dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R occupancies as permitted by Section 1010.2.4, Item 5.

    1010.2.2 Hardware. Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices on doors required to be accessible by Chapter 11A or 11B shall not require tight grasping, tight pinching or twisting of the wrist to operate.

    These design requirements for door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices, intended for use on required means of egress doors in other than Group R and M occupancies with an occupant load of 10 or less, shall comply with SFM Standard 12-10-2, Section 12-10-202 contained in the CCR, Title 24, Part 12, California Referenced Standards Code.

    1010.2.3 Hardware height. Door handles, pulls, latches, locks and other operating devices shall be installed 34 inches (864 mm) minimum and 48 inches (1219 mm) maximum above the finished floor.

    Exceptions:

    1. Locks used only for security purposes and not used for normal operation are permitted at any height.
    2. Where the California Building Code requires restricting access to a pool, spa or hot tub, and where door and gate latch release mechanisms are accessed from the outside of the barrier and are not of the self-locking type, such a mechanism shall be located above the finished floor or ground surface not less than 52 inches (1219 mm) and not greater than 54 inches (1370 mm), provided that the latch release mechanism is not a self-locking type such as where the lock is operated by means of a key, electronic opener or the entry of a combination into an integral combination lock.

    1010.2.4 Locks and latches. Locks and latches shall be permitted to prevent operation of doors where any of the following exist:

    1. Places of detention or restraint.

    2. In Group I-2 and R-2.1 occupancies where the clinical needs of persons receiving care require containment or where persons receiving care pose a security threat, provided that all clinical staff can readily unlock doors at all times, and all such locks are keyed to keys carried by all clinical staff at all times or all clinical staff have the codes or other means necessary to operate the locks at all times.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-21

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1. In buildings in occupancy Group A having an occupant load of 300 or less, Groups B, F, M and S, and in places of religious worship, the main door or doors are permitted to be equipped with key-operated locking devices from the egress side provided that: 3.1.
  • CBC § 1010.3.3. Medium relevance — show source text

    Power-operated swinging doors, power-operated sliding doors and power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.10. Power-assisted swinging doors and low-energy power-operated swinging doors shall comply with BHMA A156.19. Low-energy power-operated sliding doors and low-energy power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.38.

    Exceptions:

    1. Occupancies in Group I-3.
    2. Special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors complying with Section 1010.3.3.
    3. For a biparting door in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of Section 1010.1.1, provided that a minimum 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening is provided when the two biparting leaves meeting in the center are broken out.

    1010.3.3 Special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding door assemblies permitted to be a component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1010.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria:

    1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure.
    2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides.
    3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width.
    4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device.
    5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716.
    6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply.
    7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised.
    8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.

    1010.3.4 Security grilles. In Groups B, F, M and S, horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles are permitted at the main exit and shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort during periods that the space is occupied. The grilles shall remain secured in the full-open position during the period of occupancy by the general public. Where two or more exits or access to exits are required, not more than one-half of the exits or exit access doorways shall be equipped with horizontal sliding or vertical security grilles.

    1010.4 Gates. Gates serving the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Gates used as a component in a means of egress shall conform to the applicable requirements for doors.

  • CBC § 10-17 Medium relevance — show source text

    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-17 1010 Doors, Gates and Turnstiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20 1011 Stairways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30 101 2 Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-34 1013 Exit Signs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35 1014 Handrails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-37

    1015 Guards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38

    1016 Exit Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40

    1017 Exit Access Travel Distance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41

    1018 Aisles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42

    1019 Exit Access Stairways and Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-43 1020 Corridors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44

    1021 Egress Balconies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46 1022 Exits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46

  • CBC § 402.6.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Kiosk 402.6.2 Means of egress 402.8 Occupant load 402.8.2 Open mall construction 402.4.3 Open space 402.2

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE INDEX-5

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    INDEX

    Special inspection 1705.5.1, 1705.12.1, 1705.13.2 Wood 2305, 2306.2

    Doors 1010

    Atrium enclosures 404.6 Configuration 1007 Delayed egress 1010.2.12 Dwelling unit separations 406.3.2, 412.4.1

    Education 1010.2.7

    Emergency escape 1031.2 Fabrication (HPM) areas 415.11.1.2 Fire (see Opening Protectives) 716.2, 1023.4 Glazing 715.8, 716.2.5, 716.3, 1404.14 Hardware (see Locks and Latches) 1005.7.1, 1010.2, 1010.2.8 Hazardous storage 415.11.6.7 Horizontal sliding 1010.3.3 I-1 occupancies 1010.2.13 I-2 occupancies 407.3.1, 1010.2.13 I-3 occupancies 408.3, 408.4, 408.8.4, 1010.2.15 Landings 1010.1.4, 1010.1.5 Locks for toilet facilities Chapter 29 Operation 1010.1.3, 1010.2, 1010.2.8 Panic and fire exit hardware 1010.2.8,

    1010.4.1

    Power-operated 1010.3.2 Revolving 1010.3.1 Security 402.8.8, 1010.2.9, 1010.3.4 Sensor release 1010.2.11 Side swinging 1010.1.2 Smoke 710.5

    Stairways 1010.2.6 Stairways, high-rise 403.5.3 Structural testing, exterior 1709.5 Thresholds 1003.5, 1010.1.4, 1010.1.6 Vestibule 1010.1.7

    Width 1010.1.1, 1010.1.1.1 Dormitories 310.3, 310.4, 420.11.1 Accessibility Chapters 11A and 11B Cooking 420.11, 904.15 Fire alarms and smoke alarms 420.5

  • CBC § 1126A.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    1126A.5 Type of latch and lock. The type of latch and lock required for all doors or gates shall be in accordance with Section 1126A.6 and Chapter 10.

    1126A.6 Hand-activated door or gate hardware. Hand-activated door or gate latching, locking and opening hardware shall be centered between 30 inches (762 mm) and 44 inches (1118 mm) above the floor. Latching and locking doors or gates that are hand-acti- vated and on an accessible route shall be operable with a single effort by lever type hardware, panic bars, push-pull activating bars or other hardware designed to provide passage without requiring the ability to grasp the opening hardware. Locked exit doors or gates shall operate consistent with Section 1126A.4, in the direction of egress. When sliding doors are in the fully open position, operating hard- ware shall be exposed and usable from both sides.

    Exception: Access gates in barrier walls and fences protecting pools, spas and hot tubs shall be permitted to have operable parts of the release of latch on self-latching devices at 54 inches (1372 mm) maximum above the finish floor or ground provided the self-latch- ing devices are not also self-locking devices operated by means of a key, electronic opener or integral combination lock. 1126A.6.1 Lever type hardware. The lever or lever of actuated latches or locks shall be curved with a return to within [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) of the door or gate to prevent catching on the clothing of persons during egress.

    Exception: Group R and U occupancies with an occupant load of 10 or less.

    1126A.7 Smooth surface. Swinging door or gate surfaces within 10 inches (254 mm) of the finish floor or ground measured vertically shall have a smooth surface on the push side extending the full width of the door or gate. Parts creating horizontal or vertical joints in these surfaces shall be within [1] / 16 inch (1.6 mm) of the same plane as the other and be free of sharp or abrasive edges. Cavities created by added kick plates shall be capped.

    Exceptions:

    1. Automatic doors or gates. 2. Tempered glass doors without stiles and having a bottom rail or shoe with the top leading edge tapered at 60 degrees mini- mum from the horizontal.

    3. Doors or gates that do not extend to within 10 inches (254 mm) of the finish floor or ground.

    1126A.8 Windows. Where glazed openings are provided in accessible rooms or spaces for operation by occupants, at least one opening shall comply with Section 1138A.4.

    Each glazed opening required by the enforcing agency to be operable shall comply with Section 1138A.4.

    SECTION 1127A —COMMON USE FACILITIES

    Note: For public use facilities, see Chapter 11B of this code.

    1127A.1 General. When provided, common use areas and facilities in covered multifamily housing developments shall be accessible to persons with disabilities. Common use facilities include, but are not limited to, lobbies, toilet and bathing facilities, laundry facilities, community rooms, clubhouses, health and fitness facilities, game rooms and portions of common use tenant storage. All entrances,

  • CBC § 9-53 Medium relevance — show source text

    911 Fire Command Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53

    912 Fire Department Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-54

    913 Fire Pumps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55

    914 Emergency Responder Safety Features . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

    915 Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

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    916 Gas Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-58

    917 Mass Notification Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59

    918 Emergency Responder Communication Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-59

    CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

    1001 Administration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1002 Maintenance and Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1003 General Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5

    1004 Occupant Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-7

    1005 Means of Egress Sizing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9

    1006 Number of Exits and Exit Access Doorways . . . . . 10-10

    1007 Exit and Exit Access Doorway Configuration . . . . 10-14

    1008 Means of Egress Illumination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14

    1009 Accessible Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15

    1010 Doors, Gates and Turnstiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-19

    1011 Stairways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-29

    1012 Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33

  • CBC § 1010.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BE] 1010.3.2 Power-operated doors. Where means of egress doors are operated or assisted by power, the design shall be such that in the event of power failure, the door is capable of being opened manually to permit means of egress travel or closed where necessary to safeguard means of egress. The forces required to open these doors manually shall not exceed those specified in Section 1010.1.3, except that the force to set the door in motion shall not exceed 50 pounds (220 N). The door shall be capable of opening from any position to the full width of the opening in which such door is installed when a force is applied to the door on the side from which egress is made. Power-operated swinging doors, power-operated sliding doors and power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.10. Power-assisted swinging doors and low energy power-operated swinging doors shall comply with BHMA A156.19. Low-energy power-operated sliding doors and low-energy power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.38.

    Exceptions:

    1. Occupancies in Group I-3.
    2. Special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors complying with Section 1010.3.3.
    3. For a biparting door in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of Section 1010.1.1, provided that a minimum 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening is provided when the two biparting leaves meeting in the center are broken out.

    [BE] 1010.3.3 Special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, specialpurpose horizontal sliding, accordion, or folding door assemblies permitted to be a component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1010.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria:

    1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure.
    2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides.
    3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width.
    4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device.
    5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6 of the California Building Code, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716 of the California Building Code .
    6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply.
    7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised.
    8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.
  • CBC § 10-27 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: A breakout force in excess of 180 pounds (801 N) is permitted if the breakout force is reduced to not more than 130 pounds (578 N) when not less than one of the following conditions is satisfied:

    1. There is a power failure or power is removed to the device holding the door wings in position.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-27

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

    �

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1. There is an actuation of the automatic sprinkler system where such system is provided.
    2. There is an actuation of a smoke detection system that is installed in accordance with Section 907 to provide coverage in areas within the building that are within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of the revolving doors.
    3. There is an actuation of a manual control switch, in an approved location and clearly identified, that reduces the breakout force to not more than 130 pounds (578 N).

    1010.3.2 Power-operated doors. Where means of egress doors are operated or assisted by power, the design shall be such that in the event of power failure, the door is capable of being opened manually to permit means of egress travel or closed where necessary to safeguard means of egress. The forces required to open these doors manually shall not exceed those specified in Section 1010.1.3, except that the force to set the door in motion shall not exceed 50 pounds (220 N). The door shall be capable of opening from any position to the full width of the opening in which such door is installed when a force is applied to the door on the side from which egress is made. Power-operated swinging doors, power-operated sliding doors and power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.10. Power-assisted swinging doors and low-energy power-operated swinging doors shall comply with BHMA A156.19. Low-energy power-operated sliding doors and low-energy power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.38.

    Exceptions:

    1. Occupancies in Group I-3.
    2. Special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors complying with Section 1010.3.3.
    3. For a biparting door in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of Section 1010.1.1, provided that a minimum 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening is provided when the two biparting leaves meeting in the center are broken out.

    1010.3.3 Special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, special purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding door assemblies permitted to be a component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1010.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria:

    1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure.
    2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides.
    3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width.
  • CBC § 1010.2.7.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    1010.2.7.2 Group E lockable doors from the inside. New buildings that are included in public schools (kindergarten through 12th grade) state funded projects and receiving state funding pursuant to Leroy F. Green, School Facilities Act of 1998, California Educa- tion Code Sections 17070.10 through 17079, and that are submitted to the Division of the State Architect for plan review after July 1, 2011 in accordance with Education Code 17075.50, shall include locks that allow doors to classrooms and any room with an occupancy of five or more persons to be locked from the inside. The locks shall conform to the specification and requirements found in Section 1010.2.

    Exceptions: 1. Doors that are locked from the outside at all times such as, but not limited to, janitor’s closet, electrical room, storage room, boiler room, elevator equipment room and pupil restroom. 2. Reconstruction projects that utilize original plans in accordance with California Administrative Code, Section 4-314. 3. Existing relocatable buildings that are relocated within same site in accordance with California Administrative Code, Section 4-314.

    1010.2.8 Panic and fire exit hardware. Swinging doors serving a Group H occupancy and swinging doors serving rooms or spaces with an occupant load of 50 or more in a Group A or E occupancy, assembly area not classified as an assembly occupancy, E or I-2 occupancies shall not be provided with a latch or lock other than panic hardware or fire exit hardware. For Group L occupan- cies see Section 453.6.3.

    Exceptions:

    1. A main exit of a Group A occupancy shall be permitted to have locking devices in accordance with Section 1010.2.4, Item 3.
    2. Doors provided with panic hardware or fire exit hardware and serving a Group A or E occupancy shall be permitted to be electrically locked in accordance with Section 1010.2.10.
    3. Exit access doors serving occupied exterior areas shall be permitted to be locked in accordance with Section 1010.2.4, Item 8.
    4. Courtrooms shall be permitted to be locked in accordance with Section 1010.2.12, Item 3.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-23

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    1010.2.8.1 Refrigeration machinery room. Refrigeration machinery rooms larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) shall have not less than two exit or exit access doorways that swing in the direction of egress travel and shall be equipped with panic hardware or fire exit hardware.

    1010.2.8.2 Rooms with electrical equipment. Exit or exit access doors serving transformer vaults, rooms designated for batteries or energy storage systems, or modular data centers shall be equipped with panic hardware or fire exit hardware. Rooms containing electrical equipment rated 800 amperes or more that contain overcurrent devices, switching devices or control devices and where the exit or exit access door is less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from the equipment working space as required by the California Electrical Code, such doors shall not be provided with a latch or lock other than panic hardware or fire exit hardware. The doors shall swing in the direction of egress travel.

    1010.2.8.3 Installation. Where panic or fire exit hardware is installed, it shall comply with the following:

Frequently asked questions

Can a door that opens into a corridor reduce corridor width?

Only within limits: when fully opened a door may not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches, and in any position it may not reduce the required width by more than half of that required width (§ 1005.7.1) .

Are turnstiles credited as full egress width?

No. Turnstiles may be credited only under the conditions of § 1010.5.1 and may not be credited for more than 50 percent of the required egress capacity or width; each credited device is based on a maximum 50‑person occupant load (§ 1010.5.1) .

Do powered doors need to open manually on power loss?

Yes. Power‑operated means‑of‑egress doors must be operable manually in the event of power failure, and specific force and timing limits apply depending on the door type (§ 1010.3.2, § 1010.3.3) .

Can I omit panic hardware on stadium gates?

Panic hardware is not required on stadium perimeter gates only when the gates are under constant immediate supervision while the public is present and safe dispersal areas meeting § 1010.4.1 are provided (§ 1010.4.1) .

Are revolving doors allowed on accessible routes?

No. Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route (Chapter 11 accessibility provisions) § 11B‑404.3.7 .

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