CBC · California Building Code
Special provisions: assembly spaces, emergency escape and rescue openings
The CBC’s § 1030 sets special egress rules for assembly spaces (notably when occupant load exceeds 300 — main exit sizing, distribution of exits, guard and aisle rules, and ICC 300 for bleachers), and § 1031 requires emergency‑escape openings for basements and sleeping rooms in Group R occupancies while delegating the specific window and area‑well dimensions to the California Residential Code (R319). All requirements and exceptions should be checked against the cited CBC/CRC sections and with the AHJ.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Building Code (CBC) gives special means-of-egress rules for assembly spaces (Chapter 10, Section 1030) and for emergency escape and rescue openings in Group R occupancies (Section 1031). Assembly rules address how exits, aisles, guards and bleachers are sized and arranged (see § 1030.1–1030.17) . Emergency-escape openings require at least one opening for basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story, with operational and maintenance rules and a set of exceptions; dimensional minima are established in the California Residential Code (R319) that is applied to these required openings (see § 1031.2 and § 1031.3) .
Requirements in detail
Assembly spaces — key rules (§ 1030)
- Scope: any room/space used for assembly with seats, tables, displays, equipment or other materials must comply with Section 1030 (§ 1030.1) .
- Bleachers and grandstands that are not building elements must comply with ICC 300; spaces beneath grandstands/bleachers must be separated by fire barriers and horizontal assemblies with at least 1‑hour fire‑resistance rating (§ 1030.1.1 and § 1030.1.1.1) .
- Main-exit capacity: where an assembly space has an occupant load greater than 300 and a main exit is provided, that main exit must be sized to handle not less than one-half of the occupant load (but not less than the total required capacity of all egress that lead to it). For Group A occupancies at least one exit shall front on a street or an unoccupied space at least 20 feet wide (§ 1030.2) .
- Additional exits: each level with occupant load >300 and a main exit must provide additional means of egress sized to accommodate not less than one-half of the total occupant load served by that level; at least half of those additional egress must lead directly to an exit (or equivalent protected path) (§ 1030.3) .
- Aisles, stepped aisles and ramps, sightlines and guards have dedicated requirements (see § 1030.6–1030.17); perimeter and cross‑aisle guards are required when seating elevations are more than 30 inches above the floor/grade below, with specified minimum heights and sightline exceptions (§ 1030.17 and subsections) .
Decision‑relevant dimensions and values
| Item | Value / Threshold | Where to look (CBC / CRC) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupant‑load threshold for special assembly rules | > 300 occupants | CBC § 1030.2–1030.3 | § 1030.2, § 1030.3 |
| Minimum width of adjoining unoccupied space / discharge | 20 feet (6096 mm) | CBC § 1030.2 | § 1030.2 |
| Required main-exit capacity (when >300) | ≥ 1/2 occupant load (and not less than capacity of egress leading to it) | CBC § 1030.2 | § 1030.2 |
| Bleachers / grandstands standard | ICC 300 (where not building elements) | CBC § 1030.1.1 | § 1030.1.1 |
| Perimeter guard trigger elevation | > 30 in (762 mm) above floor/grade | CBC § 1030.17.1 | § 1030.17.1 |
| Perimeter guard minimum height | 42 in (1067 mm) where measured per § 1030.17.1 | CBC § 1030.17.1 | § 1030.17.1 |
| Sightline‑constrained guard min height | 26 in (660 mm) (minimum alternative) | CBC § 1030.17.3 | § 1030.17.3 |
(References in table link to the CBC sections stated; see the cited CBC/FCC extracts for full text) file.
Emergency escape and rescue openings — key rules (§ 1031)
- Where required: basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane in Group R occupancies must have at least one emergency escape and rescue opening (§ 1031.2) .
- Exceptions: CBC lists multiple exceptions (for example, basements with ceiling height < 80 in; basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit door directly to the public way or yard; small non‑habitable basements ≤ 200 sq ft; storm shelters built per ICC 500; sprinklered buildings meeting certain conditions; and other limited exceptions) (§ 1031.2 exceptions) .
- Operational and security controls: required openings and exit doors must be operable from inside without keys or tools; window‑opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 are permitted; security bars must provide approved exterior release for fire department access when required by the AHJ (§ 1031.2.1) .
- Dimensional minima and other detailed dimensional criteria (net clear opening area, minimum width/height, maximum sill height, area‑well size and ladder requirements) are specified in the California Residential Code (R319) and apply to emergency escape openings in dwellings (R319.2 et seq.) — for example, R319.2.1 requires a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 sq ft (5.0 sq ft for grade‑floor), R319.2.2 sets minimum height 24 in and width 20 in, and R319.2.3 limits sill height to 44 in (§ R319.2 series) .
Decision‑relevant dimensions and values (emergency openings)
| Item | Value / Threshold | Where to look | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Required in basements & sleeping rooms (Group R) | At least 1 escape/rescue opening | CBC § 1031.2 | § 1031.2 |
| Minimum net clear opening (typical) | 5.7 ft² (grade‑floor exception = 5.0 ft²) | CRC R319.2.1 | R319.2.1 |
| Minimum net clear opening dimensions | Height ≥ 24 in; Width ≥ 20 in | CRC R319.2.2 | R319.2.2 |
| Maximum sill height above floor | 44 in | CRC R319.2.3 | R319.2.3 |
| Area well min horizontal area & width | ≥ 9 ft²; width/projection ≥ 36 in | CRC R319.4.1 | R319.4.1 |
| Ladder/steps in area well | Required if vertical depth > 44 in; must be permanently affixed | CRC R319.4.2 | R319.4.2 |
| Permitted opening control devices | ASTM F2090 window‑opening control devices | CBC § 1031.2.1 / CRC R319.1.1 | § 1031.2.1; R319.1.1 file |
How the CBC and CRC interact here
The CBC establishes the requirement that an emergency escape and rescue opening be provided in certain Group R spaces (§ 1031.2), while the CRC (R319) contains the prescriptive dimensional and area‑well details commonly used to satisfy § 1031.2 for residential occupancies file.
Exceptions & special cases
- Group A within Group I‑3: Group A occupancies located within Group I‑3 facilities are exempt from Section 1030 egress requirements (§ 1030.1 exception) .
- Bleachers: where seating is not a building element, ICC 300 applies instead of some CBC provisions (§ 1030.1.1) .
- Emergency openings exceptions include sprinklered Group R‑1 and R‑2 buildings of certain construction types, small/non‑habitable basements, basements with exit doors directly to the public way, storm shelters built per ICC 500, and other limited conditions in § 1031.2; consult the full exception list in § 1031.2 for applicability and conditions (§ 1031.2 exceptions) .
- Operational restriction exception: Group R‑1 occupancies with monitored sprinkler systems designed per NFPA 13 may have permanently restricted window openings to 4 in where delayed egress criteria are satisfied (see the specific exception language in § 1031.2.1) .
If your project is mixed‑occupancy, uses unique seating configurations (smoke‑protected seating, open‑air assembly), or relies on alternative fire‑protection measures (sprinklers, egress balconies), read the applicable exceptions and linked sections carefully; the code explicitly references other sections (for example, smoke‑protected seating in § 1030.2 references § 1030.6.2) .
Common mistakes
- Treating the CBC § 1031 requirement as prescribing the precise window dimensions — the CBC requires the escape openings but the CRC (R319) contains the commonly applicable dimensional prescriptions; designers sometimes conflate the two without checking which applies to the project type (§ 1031.2 and R319) file.
- Not sizing the main exit correctly for large assemblies — when occupant load > 300, the main exit must be sized for at least one‑half the occupant load and at least one exit must discharge to a street or 20‑ft unoccupied space (§ 1030.2) .
- Ignoring ICC 300 for non‑building‑element bleachers — assuming CBC seating provisions always control when ICC 300 governs many bleacher installations (§ 1030.1.1) .
- Blocking or mechanically locking required emergency escape openings, or installing security bars without an approved exterior release — CBC/CRC require operability from inside without keys/tools and approved release mechanisms where security bars are used (§ 1031.2.1; R319.1.1) file.
- Misapplying guard heights and sightline exceptions — guards triggered at seating elevations >30 inches have specific heights and sightline exceptions; using the wrong measurement point (seatboard vs floor) leads to errors (§ 1030.17.1–1030.17.4) .
Worked example — applying the rules with numbers
Scenario: A new banquet hall (Group A) has an occupant load of 520 on the main floor and includes a basement with a sleeping room.
Assembly egress (apply § 1030.2 and § 1030.3):
- Because occupant load = 520 (>300), a main exit must be sized for at least one‑half the occupant load = 260 persons (§ 1030.2) .
- The remaining egress capacity must be provided by additional means so that each level’s egress capacity equals at least the other half of the occupant load; at least half of those additional means must lead directly to an exit or protected path (§ 1030.3) .
- At least one exit must discharge to a street or an unoccupied space at least 20 ft wide (§ 1030.2) .
Basement sleeping room (apply § 1031.2 and CRC R319):
- CBC § 1031.2 requires at least one emergency escape and rescue opening in the basement sleeping room because it is a sleeping room below the 4th story (§ 1031.2) .
- To meet typical residential dimensional requirements, provide a window that, in normal operating position, yields a net clear opening ≥ 5.7 ft² (or 5.0 ft² if grade‑floor) and with net clear height ≥ 24 in and width ≥ 20 in, and the bottom of the clear opening not more than 44 in above the floor (CRC R319.2 series). For example, a window with a net clear opening of 24 in (height) × 36 in (width) = 2.0 ft × 3.0 ft = 6.0 ft² net clear area meets the 5.7 ft² requirement and its sill at 40 in will meet the 44 in maximum (§ 1031.2 and R319.2) file.
- If the window opens to an area well because the bottom of the opening is below grade, provide an area well ≥ 9 ft² with horizontal projection/width ≥ 36 in; if well depth > 44 in, provide an affixed ladder or steps (§ R319.4) .
- Ensure any security bars have approved exterior release if required by the AHJ and that the opening operates from the inside without keys or tools (§ 1031.2.1) .
Related provisions
- § 1005.1 — Determination of required egress capacity (general capacity rules)
- § 1007.1 — Additional means of egress requirements and accessible egress routes referenced by § 1030.3
- § 1015 — Guard construction and requirements referenced by § 1030.17 (guard details)
- § 707 — Fire barriers referenced for spaces under bleachers (§ 1030.1.1.1)
- § 711 — Horizontal assemblies referenced for spaces under bleachers (§ 1030.1.1.1)
- § 903.3.1.1 — Automatic sprinkler system (used in several exceptions to § 1031 and other sections)
- ICC 300 — Standard applicable to bleachers, grandstands and folding/telescopic seating where those are not building elements (§ 1030.1.1)
- CRC R319 — Emergency escape and rescue opening dimensions, area‑well rules and operational details (used to satisfy § 1031 for dwellings)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 1001.1 High relevance — show source text
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10 MEANS OF EGRESS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 10 provides the general criteria for designing the means of egress established as the primary method for protection of people in buildings by allowing timely relocation or evacuation of building occupants. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized in this chapter to provide for a basic approach in the determination of a safe exiting system for all occupancies. It addresses all portions of the egress system (exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. Functional and operational characteristics that will permit the safe use of components without special knowledge or effort are specified.
The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7), interior finish (see Chapter 8), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 is subdivided into four main sections: general (Sections 1003–1015), exit access (Sections 1016–1021), exit (Sections 1022–1027) and exit discharge (Sections 1028–1029). Special allowances for the unique requirements for assembly spaces (Section 1030) and emergency escape and rescue openings (Section 1031) complete the chapter. Chapter 10 of this code is duplicated in Chapter 10 the California Fire Code; however, the California Fire Code contains one additional section on maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
SECTION 1001—ADMINISTRATION
1001.1 General. Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and arrangement of means of egress components required to provide an approved means of egress from structures and portions thereof.
1001.2 Minimum requirements. It shall be unlawful to alter a building or structure in a manner that will reduce the number of exits or the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress to less than required by this code.
SECTION 1002—MAINTENANCE AND PLANS
[F] 1002.1 Maintenance. Means of egress shall be maintained in accordance with the California Fire Code .
[F] 1002.2 Fire safety and evacuation plans. Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be provided for all occupancies and buildings where required by the California Fire Code . Such fire safety and evacuation plans shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 401.2 and 404 of the California Fire Code .
SECTION 1003—GENERAL MEANS OF EGRESS
1003.1 Applicability. The general requirements specified in Sections 1003 through 1015 shall apply to all three elements of the means of egress system, in addition to those specific requirements for the exit access, the exit and the exit discharge detailed elsewhere in this chapter.
CBC § 1030.1 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- Egress courts serving an occupant load of less than 10.
- Egress courts serving Group R-3.
- Egress courts, located at grade, that provide direct and unobstructed access to a public way through two or more independent paths. The minimum width provided along each path shall be based on the required width or the required capacity, whichever is greater, and shall be maintained along each path.
SECTION 1030—ASSEMBLY
1030.1 General. A room or space used for assembly purposes that contains seats, tables, displays, equipment or other material shall comply with this section.
Exception: Group A occupancies within Group I-3 facilities are exempt from egress requirements of Section 1030.
1030.1.1 Bleachers. Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating, that are not building elements, shall comply with ICC 300.
1030.1.1.1 Spaces under grandstands and bleachers. Spaces under grandstands or bleachers shall be separated by fire barriers complying with Section 707 and horizontal assemblies complying with Section 711 with not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
Exceptions:
Ticket booths less than 100 square feet (9.29 m [2] ) in area.
Toilet rooms.
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- Other accessory use areas 1,000 square feet (92.9 m [2] ) or less in area and equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
1030.2 Assembly main exit. A building, room or space used for assembly purposes that has an occupant load of greater than 300 and is provided with a main exit, that main exit shall be of sufficient capacity to accommodate not less than one-half of the occupant load, but such capacity shall be not less than the total required capacity of all means of egress leading to the exit. Where the building is classified as a Group A occupancy, the main exit shall front on not less than one street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in width that adjoins a street or public way. In a building, room or space used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building provided that the total capacity of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required capacity and not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or public way. Smoke-protected seating shall comply with Section 1030.6.2.
1030.3 Assembly other exits. In addition to having access to a main exit, each level in a building used for assembly purposes having an occupant load greater than 300 and provided with a main exit, shall be provided with additional means of egress that shall provide an egress capacity for not less than one-half of the total occupant load served by that level and shall comply with Section 1007.1.
CBC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of this code.
R319.2 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have minimum dimensions in accordance with Sections R319.2.1 through R319.2.4.
R319.2.1 Minimum size. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have a net clear opening of not less than 5.7 square feet (0.530 m [2] ).
Exception: The minimum net clear opening for grade-floor emergency escape and rescue openings shall be 5 square feet (0.465 m [2] ).
R319.2.2 Minimum dimensions. The minimum net clear opening height dimension shall be 24 inches (610 mm). The minimum net clear opening width dimension shall be 20 inches (508 mm). The net clear opening dimensions shall be the result of normal operation of the opening.
R319.2.3 Maximum height from floor. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have the bottom of the clear opening not greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.
R319.2.4 Emergency escape and rescue openings under decks, porches and cantilevers. Emergency escape and rescue openings installed under decks, porches and cantilevers shall be fully openable and provide a path not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height and 36 inches (914 mm) in width to a yard or court.
R319.3 Emergency escape and rescue doors. Where a door is provided as the required emergency escape and rescue opening, it shall be a side-hinged door or a sliding door.
R319.4 Area wells. An emergency escape and rescue opening where the bottom of the clear opening is below the adjacent grade shall be provided with an area well in accordance with Sections R319.4.1 through R319.4.4.
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R319.4.1 Minimum size. The horizontal area of the area well shall be not less than 9 square feet (0.9 m [2] ), with a horizontal projection and width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm). The size of the area well shall allow the emergency escape and rescue opening to be fully opened.
Exception: The ladder or steps required by Section R319.4.2 shall be permitted to encroach not more than 6 inches (152 mm) into the required dimensions of the area well.
R319.4.2 Ladder and steps. Area wells with a vertical depth greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be equipped with an approved, permanently affixed ladder or steps. The ladder or steps shall not be obstructed by the emergency escape and rescue opening where the window or door is in the open position. Ladders or steps required by this section shall not be required to comply with Section R318.7.
CBC § 1030.17.3 High relevance — show source text
Where an elevation change of 30 inches (762 mm) or less occurs between a cross aisle and the adjacent floor or grade below, guards not less than 26 inches (660 mm) above the aisle floor shall be provided.
Exception: Where the backs of seats on the front of the cross aisle project 24 inches (610 mm) or more above the adjacent floor of the aisle, a guard need not be provided.
[BE] 1030.17.3 Sightline-constrained guard heights. Unless subject to the requirements of Section 1030.17.4, a fascia or railing system in accordance with the guard requirements of Section 1015 and having a minimum height of 26 inches (660 mm) shall be provided where the floor or footboard elevation is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and the fascia or railing would otherwise interfere with the sightlines of immediately adjacent seating.
[BE] 1030.17.4 Guards at the end of aisles. A fascia or railing system complying with the guard requirements of Section 1015 shall be provided for the full width of the aisle where the foot of the aisle is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below. The fascia or railing shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) high and shall provide not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) measured diagonally between the top of the rail and the nosing of the nearest tread.
SECTION 1031—EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE
[BE] 1031.1 General. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with the requirements of this section.
[BE] 1031.2 Where required. In addition to the means of egress required by this chapter, emergency escape and rescue openings shall be provided in Group R occupancies:
Group R-2 occupancies located in stories with only one exit or access to only one exit as permitted by Tables 1006.3.4(1) and 1006.3.4(2).
Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies.
Basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall have not fewer than one emergency escape and rescue opening in accordance with this section. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall not be required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such open
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ings shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way, or to an egress balcony that leads to a public way.
Exceptions: 1. In Groups R-1 and R-2 occupancies constructed of Type I, Type IIA, Type IIIA or Type IV construction equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 2. Group R-2.1 occupancies meeting the requirements for delayed egress in accordance with Section 1010.2.13 may have oper- able windows that are breakable in sleeping rooms permanently restricted to a maximum of 4-inch open position. 3. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings.
CBC § 1001.1 High relevance — show source text
The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. Functional and operational characteristics that will permit the safe use of components without special knowledge or effort are specified.
The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7), interior finish (see Chapter 8), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Sections 1003 through 1031 are duplicated text from Chapter 10 of the California Building Code ; however, the California Fire Code contains an additional Section 1032 on maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings. Retroactive minimum means of egress requirements for existing buildings are found in Chapter 11.
SECTION 1001—ADMINISTRATION
1001.1 General. Buildings or portions thereof shall be provided with a means of egress system as required by this chapter. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design, construction and arrangement of means of egress components required to provide an approved means of egress from structures and portions thereof. Sections 1003 through 1031 shall apply to new construction. Section 1032 shall apply to existing buildings.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures shall comply with the California Residential Code .
[BE] 1001.2 Minimum requirements. It shall be unlawful to alter a building or structure in a manner that will reduce the number of exits or the capacity of the means of egress to less than required by this code.
SECTION 1002—DEFINITIONS
[BE] 1002.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS.
AISLE.
AISLE ACCESSWAY.
ALTERNATING TREAD DEVICE.
AREA OF REFUGE.
AUTOMATIC FLUSH BOLT.
BLEACHERS.
BREAKOUT.
CIRCULATION PATH.
COMMON PATH OF EGRESS TRAVEL.
CONSTANT LATCHING BOLT.
CORRIDOR.
DEAD BOLT.
DEFEND-IN-PLACE.
DOOR, BALANCED.
EGRESS COURT.
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING.
EXIT.
EXIT ACCESS.
EXIT ACCESS DOORWAY.
EXIT ACCESS RAMP.
EXIT ACCESS STAIRWAY.
EXIT DISCHARGE.
EXIT DISCHARGE, LEVEL OF.
EXIT PASSAGEWAY.
EXTERIOR EXIT RAMP.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
EXTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAY.
FIRE EXIT HARDWARE.
FIXED SEATING.
FLIGHT.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS.
FLOOR AREA, NET.
FOLDING AND TELESCOPIC SEATING.
GRADE FLOOR EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENINGS.
GRANDSTAND.
GUARD.
HANDRAIL.
HORIZONTAL EXIT.
INTERIOR EXIT RAMP.
INTERIOR EXIT STAIRWAY.
LOW ENERGY POWER-OPERATED DOOR.
MANUAL BOLT.
MEANS OF EGRESS.
MERCHANDISE PAD.
NOSING.
OCCUPANT LOAD.
OPEN-AIR ASSEMBLY SEATING.
OPEN-ENDED CORRIDOR.
CBC § 1030.1.1 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Group A occupancies within Group I-3 facilities are exempt from egress requirements of Section 1029.
[BE] 1030.1.1 Bleachers. Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating, that are not building elements, shall comply with ICC 300.
[BE] 1030.1.1.1 Spaces under grandstands and bleachers. Spaces under grandstands or bleachers shall be separated by fire barriers complying with Section 707 of the California Building Code and horizontal assemblies complying with Section 711 of the California Building Code with not less than 1-hour fire-resistance-rated construction.
Exceptions:
Ticket booths less than 100 square feet (9 m [2] ) in area.
Toilet rooms.
Other accessory use areas 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) or less in area and equipped with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
[BE] 1030.2 Assembly main exit. A building, room or space used for assembly purposes that has an occupant load of greater than 300 and is provided with a main exit, that main exit shall be of sufficient capacity to accommodate not less than one-half of the occupant load, but such capacity shall be not less than the total required capacity of all means of egress leading to the exit. Where the building is classified as a Group A occupancy, the main exit shall front on not less than one street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in width that adjoins a street or public way. In a building, room or space used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building provided that the total capacity of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required capacity and not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or publicway. Smoke-protected seating shall comply with Section 1030.6.2.
[BE] 1030.3 Assembly other exits. In addition to having access to a main exit, each level in a building used for assembly purposes having an occupant load greater than 300 and provided with a main exit, shall be provided with additional means of egress that shall provide an egress capacity for not less than one-half of the total occupant load served by that level and shall
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comply with Section 1007.1. Not less than one-half of the additional means of egress required by this section shall be directly to an exit, or through a lobby, that is not used to access the main exit, to an exit, or to a 1-hour rated corridor to an exit. In a building used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits for each level shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building, provided that the total width of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width and not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of _not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or publicway.
CBC § 18.6 High relevance — show source text
Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 4 . Emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard, court or exterior egress balcony that leads to a public
way. 5 . Basements without habitable spaces and having not more than 200 square feet (18.6 m [2] ) in floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 6 . Storm shelters are not required to comply with this section where the shelter is constructed in accordance with ICC 500. 7 . Within individual dwelling and sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following: 7.1. One means of egress and one emergency escape and rescue opening. 7.2. Two means of egress. 8. In Group R-2.2 occupancies a certified fire escape is acceptable as a secondary means of egress for existing buildings for this section of the code.
1031.2.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices. Emergency escape and rescue openings and any exit doors shall be maintained free of any obstructions other than those allowed by this section and shall be operational from inside the room without the use of keys or tools. Window-opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at all times.
Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.
Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of Part 2.
Exception: Group R-1 occupancies provided with a monitored fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8 and designed in accordance with NFPA 13 may have openable windows permanently restricted to a maximum 4-inch (102 mm) open position.
1031.2.2 Maintenance. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be kept clear and unobstructed at all times and shall be main- tained in good working order.
1031.2.3 Examination. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be examined for structural adequacy and safety by a registered design professional or other person acceptable to the fire code official every 5 years. The examination shall determine whether the fire escape stairways and balconies can support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.78 kN/m). An inspection report shall be submitted to the fire code official after such examination.
1031.3 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with Sections 1031.3.1 through 1031.3.3.
CBC § 1030.17.4 High relevance — show source text
1030.17.4 Guards at the end of aisles. A fascia or railing system complying with the guard requirements of Section 1015 shall be provided for the full width of the aisle where the foot of the aisle is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below. The fascia or railing shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) high and shall provide not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) measured diagonally between the top of the rail and the nosing of the nearest tread.
SECTION 1031—EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE
1031.1 General. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with the requirements of this section.
1031.2 Where required. In addition to the means of egress required by this chapter, emergency escape and rescue openings shall be provided in Group R occupancies .
Basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall have not fewer than one emergency escape and rescue opening in accordance with this section. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall not be required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such open
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ings shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way, or to an egress balcony that leads to a public way.
Exceptions: 1. In Groups R-1 and R-2 occupancies constructed of Type I, Type IIA, Type IIIA or Type IV construction equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 2. Group R-2.1 occupancies meeting the requirements for delayed egress in accordance with Section 1010.2.13 may have oper- able windows that are breakable in sleeping rooms permanently restricted to a maximum of 4-inch open position. 3 . Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 4 . Emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard, court or exterior egress balcony that leads to a public
way. 5 . Basements without habitable spaces and having not more than 200 square feet (18.6 m [2] ) in floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 6 . Storm shelters are not required to comply with this section where the shelter is constructed in accordance with ICC 500. 7 . Within individual dwelling and sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following: 7.1. One means of egress and one emergency escape and rescue opening. 7.2. Two means of egress. 8. In Group R-2.2 occupancies a certified fire escape is acceptable as a secondary means of egress for existing buildings for this section of the code.
CBC § 1023.9.1 High relevance — show source text
9
(2nd paragraph only)|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |1023.9.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1023.11||||||X||||||||||||||||||| |1024.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1026.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1026.4.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1026.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1028.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1029.3.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1029.9.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.6.3.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1030.9|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1031.2.3|||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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User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 10 provides the general criteria for designing the means of egress established as the primary method for protection of people in buildings by allowing timely relocation or evacuation of building occupants. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized in this chapter to provide for a basic approach in the determination of a safe exiting system for all occupancies. It addresses all portions of the egress system (exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. Functional and operational characteristics that will permit the safe use of components without special knowledge or effort are specified.
The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7), interior finish (see Chapter 8), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 is subdivided into four main sections: general (Sections 1003–1015), exit access (Sections 1016–1021), exit (Sections 1022–1027) and exit discharge (Sections 1028–1029). Special allowances for the unique requirements for assembly spaces (Section 1030) and emergency escape and rescue openings (Section 1031) complete the chapter. Chapter 10 of this code is duplicated in Chapter 10 the California Fire Code; however, the California Fire Code contains one additional section on maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
SECTION 1001—ADMINISTRATION
CBC § 903.3.1.1 High relevance — show source text
Buildings classified as Group R-2, equipped without an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and 903.3.1.2 of the_California Fire Code_ and
provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1031 of the_California Building Code_.
b. This table is used for Group R-2 occupancies consisting of dwelling units. For Group R-2 occupancies consisting of sleeping units, use Table 1006.3.4(2) of the_California Build-
ing Code.
c. This table is for occupiable roofs accessed through and serving individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. For Group R-2 occupancies with occupiable roofs that are
not accessed through and serving individual units, use Table 804.5.1.1(2).|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NP = Not Permitted.
NA = Not Applicable.
a. Buildings classified as Group R-2, equipped without an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and 903.3.1.2 of the_California Fire Code and
provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1031 of the_California Building Code_.
b. This table is used for Group R-2 occupancies consisting of dwelling units. For Group R-2 occupancies consisting of sleeping units, use Table 1006.3.4(2) of the_California Build-
ing Code.
c. This table is for occupiable roofs accessed through and serving individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. For Group R-2 occupancies with occupiable roofs that are
not accessed through and serving individual units, use Table 804.5.1.1(2).|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NP = Not Permitted.
NA = Not Applicable.
a. Buildings classified as Group R-2, equipped without an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and 903.3.1.2 of the_California Fire Code and
provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1031 of the_California Building Code_.
b. This table is used for Group R-2 occupancies consisting of dwelling units. For Group R-2 occupancies consisting of sleeping units, use Table 1006.3.4(2) of the_California Build-
ing Code.
c. This table is for occupiable roofs accessed through and serving individual dwelling units in Group R-2 occupancies. For Group R-2 occupancies with occupiable roofs that are
not accessed through and serving individual units, use Table 804.5.1.1(2).|For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NP = Not Permitted.
NA = Not Applicable.
a. Buildings classified as Group R-2, equipped without an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and 903.3.1.2 of the_California Fire Code and
provided with emergency escape and rescue openings in accordance with Section 1031 of the_California Building Code_.
b. This table is used for Group R-2 occupancies consisting of dwelling units.CBC § 1030.6.2. High relevance — show source text
Smoke-protected seating shall comply with Section 1030.6.2._
[BE] 1030.3 Assembly other exits. In addition to having access to a main exit, each level in a building used for assembly purposes having an occupant load greater than 300 and provided with a main exit, shall be provided with additional means of egress that shall provide an egress capacity for not less than one-half of the total occupant load served by that level and shall
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comply with Section 1007.1. Not less than one-half of the additional means of egress required by this section shall be directly to an exit, or through a lobby, that is not used to access the main exit, to an exit, or to a 1-hour rated corridor to an exit. In a building used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits for each level shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building, provided that the total width of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width and not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or publicway. Smoke-protected seating shall comply with Section 1030.6.2.
1030.3.1 Occupant loads 300 or less. Group A occupancies or assembly occupancies accessory to Group E occupancies that have an occupant load of 100 or more and 300 or less, shall have not less than one of the required means of egress directly to an exit, or through a lobby, that is not used to access the other required exit, to an exit, or to a 1-hour rated corridor to an exit or continuous through a 1-hour rated lobby to an exit. Not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or public way.
[BE] 1030.4 Foyers and lobbies. In Group A-1 occupancies, where persons are admitted to the building at times when seats are not available, such persons shall be allowed to wait in a lobby or similar space, provided that such lobby or similar space shall not encroach on the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress. Such foyer, if not directly connected to a public street by all the main entrances or exits, shall have a straight and unobstructed corridor or path of travel to every such main entrance or exit.
[BE] 1030.5 Interior balcony and gallery means of egress. For balconies, galleries or press boxes having a seating capacity of 50 or more located in a building, room or space used for assembly purposes, not less than two means of egress shall be provided, with one from each side of every balcony, gallery or press box.
[BE] 1030.6 Capacity of aisle for assembly. The required capacity of aisles shall be not less than that determined in accordance with Section 1030.6.1 where smoke-protected assembly seating is not provided, with Section 1030.6.2 where smoke-protected assembly seating is provided, and with Section 1030.6.3 where open-air assembly seating is provided.
CBC § 1030.14.1.3 High relevance — show source text
[BE] 1030.14.1.3 Edge protection. Ramped aisles shall have edge protection in accordance with Sections 1012.10 and 1012.10.1.
Exception: In assembly spaces with fixed seating, edge protection is not required on the sides of ramped aisles where the ramped aisles provide access to the adjacent seating and aisle accessways.
[BE] 1030.14.2 Stepped aisles. Aisles with a slope exceeding 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5-percent slope) shall consist of a series of risers and treads that extends across the full width of aisles and complies with Sections 1030.14.2.1 through 1030.14.2.4.
[BE] 1030.14.2.1 Treads. Tread depths shall be not less than 11 inches (279 mm) and shall have dimensional uniformity. Exception: The tolerance between adjacent treads shall not exceed [3] / 16 inch (4.8 mm).
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[BE] 1030.14.2.2 Risers. Where the gradient of stepped aisles is to be the same as the gradient of adjoining seating areas, the riser height shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm) nor more than 8 inches (203 mm) and shall be uniform within each flight.
Exceptions:
- Riser height nonuniformity shall be limited to the extent necessitated by changes in the gradient of the adjoining seating area to maintain adequate sightlines. Where nonuniformities exceed [3] / 16 inch (4.8 mm) between adjacent risers, the exact location of such nonuniformities shall be indicated with a distinctive marking stripe on each tread at the nosing or leading edge adjacent to the nonuniform risers. Such stripe shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm), and not more than 2 inches (51 mm), wide. The edge marking stripe shall be distinctively different from the contrasting marking stripe.
- Riser heights not exceeding 9 inches (229 mm) shall be permitted where they are necessitated by the slope of the adjacent seating areas to maintain sightlines.
[BE] 1030.14.2.2.1 Construction tolerances. The tolerance between adjacent risers on a stepped aisle that were designed to be equal height shall not exceed [3] / 16 inch (4.8 mm). Where the stepped aisle is designed in accordance with Exception 1 of Section 1030.14.2.2, the stepped aisle shall be constructed so that each riser of unequal height, determined in the direction of descent, is not more than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm) in height different from adjacent risers where stepped aisle treads are less than 22 inches (560 mm) in depth and [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) in height different from adjacent risers where stepped aisle treads are 22 inches (560 mm) or greater in depth.
Frequently asked questions
Does § 1031 in the CBC tell me the exact window sizes required for emergency escape?
No — § 1031 establishes where emergency escape and rescue openings are required and operational expectations, but the common dimensional prescriptions (minimum net area, minimum width/height, sill height, area‑well sizing) are found in the California Residential Code (R319) which is applied for dwelling/sleeping rooms file.
If my assembly space has 300 occupants exactly, do the § 1030 “>300” rules apply?
The specific special sizing rules in § 1030 (main‑exit sizing and additional exit rules) reference an occupant load greater than 300; read § 1030.2–1030.3 carefully and, when near thresholds, verify with the AHJ because other egress requirements and occupant‑load calculations (Chapter 10) will also apply .
Can I restrict an emergency‑escape window with a security bar?
Security bars are allowed only if they meet the code’s operational requirements — required openings must be operable from inside without keys/tools and security bars must have an approved exterior release device where required by the authority having jurisdiction; window opening control devices meeting ASTM F2090 are permitted (§ 1031.2.1 and R319.1.1) file.
Do bleachers always have to meet CBC guard heights in § 1030.17?
Bleachers, grandstands and folding/telescopic seating that are not building elements must comply with ICC 300; however where seating is a building element or where the CBC applies, the perimeter/cross‑aisle guard rules in § 1030.17 apply, including the >30 in elevation trigger and the stated minimum heights and sightline exceptions (§ 1030.1.1 and § 1030.17) file.
If a basement sleeping room has both an exit door to the public way and a window, is an emergency escape opening still required?
No — one of the CBC exceptions states emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard/court or exterior egress balcony that leads to a public way (§ 1031.2 exceptions) .
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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