CEBC · California Existing Building Code
When do other California codes (CRC, CBC, CFC) or appendices apply instead?
If you’re working on an existing building, start with the CEBC: it governs repairs, alterations, additions, relocations and changes of occupancy (see § 101.2). Small detached houses and qualifying townhouses may instead use the Residential Code (§ 101.2); appendices only apply when adopted (§ 101.2.1); and any work covered by Chapter 11 of the Fire Code must meet both the CEBC and CFC Chapter 11 requirements (§ 101.2.2).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The California Existing Building Code (CEBC) governs repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of existing buildings — see § 101.2. Where the CEBC expressly allows an alternate code (for example, the California Residential Code (CRC) for small dwellings) or where work is also regulated by the fire-code requirements for existing buildings, those other codes apply as described in § 101.2 and § 101.2.2. Provisions in the CEBC appendices apply only if they are specifically adopted or referenced (§ 101.2.1).
The single most important rule: apply the CEBC to existing-building work unless the CEBC expressly defers to another California code (e.g., CRC for small dwellings) or the work is subject to Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code — check § 101.2, § 101.2.1 and § 101.2.2.
Requirements in detail
Core applicability
- The CEBC scope covers repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of existing buildings — § 101.2.
- Exception: Detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane (with a separate means of egress) may comply with the CEBC or the California Residential Code (CRC); accessory structures of the same height have the same option — see the exception in § 101.2.
- Appendices: CEBC appendices are optional and do not apply unless specifically adopted or referenced — § 101.2.1.
- Fire-code overlap: When CEBC-regulated work is also regulated by the existing‑building construction requirements in Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code (CFC), the project must satisfy the applicable requirements in both codes — § 101.2.2.
Decision table — which code to use
| Decision dimension | Key values to check | Result (which code applies) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building type | Detached 1‑ or 2‑family or townhouse ≤ 3 stories | CEBC or CRC (user choice) — follow CRC when chosen or required by CRC limits | § 101.2 |
| Work type | Repair, alteration, addition, change of occupancy, relocation | CEBC applies | § 101.2 |
| Appendices adopted? | Yes / No | Appendices apply only if specifically adopted or referenced; otherwise they do not apply | § 101.2.1 |
| Fire‑safety overlap | Work triggers CFC Chapter 11 requirements | Must comply with both CEBC and CFC Chapter 11 | § 101.2.2 |
| New construction (never occupied) | Building not previously occupied and original permit expired / subsequent permit for new construction | New work must comply with CBC or CRC (as applicable) rather than CEBC | § 101.4.1 |
How to interpret the CRC/CBC choice for small dwellings
- The CEBC exception lets the code user elect the California Residential Code (CRC) for qualifying detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and qualifying townhouses (≤ three stories). If the project exceeds the CRC’s design limitations, the CEBC notes the structure may need to be designed under the California Building Code (CBC) — see § 101.2 and cross‑references in Part I explanatory notes.
Appendix use
- Do not assume an appendix is enforceable. The CEBC explicitly states: appendices do not apply unless specifically adopted or referenced — § 101.2.1. If your jurisdiction adopts Appendix B (for example), then that appendix’s provisions are enforceable locally; otherwise they remain advisory.
Fire-code coordination
- When CEBC work intersects CFC Chapter 11 (Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings), follow both codes. Examples include retroactive fire protection upgrades and certain life‑safety systems — see § 101.2.2.
Exceptions & special cases
- Special choice for small dwellings: Detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and qualifying townhouses ≤ three stories may use CRC instead of CEBC or may use CEBC — § 101.2.
- Appendices are not automatically binding; they only apply if your jurisdiction or state agency adopts them — § 101.2.1.
- Where CEBC work also is within the scope of CFC Chapter 11, both sets of construction requirements apply — § 101.2.2.
- New buildings that were never lawfully occupied may be required to follow rules in effect at the time of their original permit or else comply with the CBC/CRC for new construction as noted in § 101.4.1 (see CEBC Part I).
Common mistakes
- Applying an appendix that has not been adopted locally. Remember § 101.2.1: appendices are optional unless adopted.
- Automatically applying CEBC to a qualifying one‑ or two‑family dwelling without checking the CRC option or CRC design limits — check the § 101.2 exception first.
- Overlooking CFC Chapter 11 requirements: when CEBC work affects fire protection systems or retroactive fire measures, designers and officials must check both CEBC and CFC Chapter 11 per § 101.2.2.
- Treating “existing-building” work as new construction: use § 101.4.1 to determine whether the work must meet new-construction codes (CBC/CRC) instead of CEBC.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A property owner plans a kitchen remodel and a 300 ft² addition to a 2‑story detached single‑family house (two stories above grade plane) with a separate means of egress.
Step 1 — Determine building type: detached single‑family — qualifies under the CEBC exception for small dwellings. Result: Project may comply with CEBC or CRC (owner/designer may elect CRC if all CRC limits are met). See § 101.2.
Step 2 — Check scope of work: repair/alteration and addition — these work types are within CEBC scope (§ 101.2). If the team elects CRC and the CRC’s limits are not exceeded, follow CRC; otherwise follow CEBC/CBC as applicable.
Step 3 — Check fire code overlap: does the work trigger Chapter 11 CFC requirements (e.g., retroactive sprinkler or means‑of‑egress upgrade)? If yes, the project must comply with any applicable CFC Chapter 11 requirements in addition to the CEBC or CRC rules — § 101.2.2. For example, if installing a new kitchen hood discharges that requires an existing‑building fire protection upgrade governed by CFC Chapter 11, satisfy both codes.
Step 4 — Appendices: if relying on a CEBC appendix (e.g., Appendix B accessibility supplements), confirm the local jurisdiction has adopted that appendix before treating it as mandatory — § 101.2.1.
Related provisions
- § 101.1 — Title of the CEBC (identifies “Existing Building Code”).
- § 101.2 — CEBC scope and the CRC/CBC exception (primary controlling section).
- § 101.2.1 — Appendices do not apply unless adopted (appendix adoption rule).
- § 101.2.2 — Application of fire code; overlap with CFC Chapter 11 (must meet both where applicable).
- § 101.3 — Purpose (policy basis for flexibility in existing‑building rules).
- § 101.4.1 — Buildings not previously occupied (when new‑construction codes may control).
- Chapter 15 (CEBC) — Construction safeguards correlated to CBC Chapter 33 (see CEBC chapter map).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1.1.4 High relevance — show source text
1.1.4 Appendices. Provisions contained in the appendices of this code shall not apply unless specifically adopted by a state agency or adopted by a local enforcing agency in compliance with Health and Safety Code, Section 18901 et. seq. for Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code, Section 17950 for State Housing Law and Health and Safety Code, Section 13869.7 for Fire Protection Districts. See Section 1.1.8 of this code.
1.1.5 Referenced codes. The codes, standards, and publications adopted and set forth in this code, including other codes, standards, and publications referred to herein are, by title and date of publication, hereby adopted as standard reference documents of this code. When this code does not specifically cover any subject related to building design and construction, recognized architectural or engineer- ing practices shall be employed. The National Fire Codes, standards, and the Fire Protection Handbook of the National Fire Protection Association are permitted to be used as authoritative guides in determining recognized fire prevention engineering practices.
1.1.6 Nonbuilding standards, orders, and regulations. Requirements contained in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code, or in any other referenced standard, code, or document, which are not building standards as defined in Health and Safety Code, Section 18909 shall not be construed as a building standard. The nonbuilding standards contained herein are applicable in the wildland inter- face areas and can be cited as a section of this code, or where the section is identified on the tagline by the source document, the provision can be cited under the source document.
1.1.7 Order of precedence and use.
1.1.7.1 Differences. In the event of any differences between these building standards and the standard reference documents, the text of these building standards shall govern.
1.1.7.2 Specific provisions. Where a specific provision varies from a general provision, the specific provision shall apply.
1.1.7.3 Conflicts. When the requirements of this code conflict with the requirements of any other part of the California Building Stan- dards Code, Title 24, the most restrictive requirements shall prevail.
1.1.7.3.1 CBC and CRC. Detached one- and two-family dwellings, efficiency dwelling units, lodging houses, live/work units, and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures, may be designed and constructed in accordance with the California Building Code or the California Residential Code, but not both, unless the proposed structure(s) or element(s) exceed the design limitations established in the California Residential Code, and the code user is specially directed by the California Residential Code to use the California Building Code.
1.1.8 City, county, or city and county amendments, additions or deletions. The provisions of this code do not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county governments to establish more restrictive and reasonably necessary differences to the provisions
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ADMINISTRATION
CEBC § 1.9.2.1.4 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A—Amendments appearing in these chapters without an acronym have been co-adopted by DSA-SS and OSHPD.
1.9.2.1.4 Reference to other chapters. Where reference is made within the California Building Standards Code (CBSC) to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22, the respective sections in Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A shall apply instead.
1.9.2.2 DSA-SS/CC Division of the State Architect- Structural Safety/Community Colleges
Application— Community Colleges. The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the authority by the Department of General Services to promulgate alternate building standards for application to community colleges, which a community college may elect to use in lieu of standards promulgated by DSA-SS in accordance with Section 1.9.2.1.
Enforcing agency— Division of the State Architect- Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC)
The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the authority by the Department of General Services to review and approve the design and oversee construction of community colleges electing to use the alternative building standards as provided in this section.
Authority cited— Education Code Section 81053.
Reference— Education Code Sections 81052, 81053 and 81130 through 81147.
1.9.2.2.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations: 1.1. Sections 4-301 through 4-355, Group 1, and Sections 4-401 through 4-435, Group 2, Chapter 4. 2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: 2.1. Sections 1.1 and 1.9.2 of Chapter 1, Division I. 2.2. Sections 102.1, 102.2, 102.3, 102.4, 102.5, 104.2.3, 104.9, 104.10, 106.1, 107.2.5, 110.3.5 and 110.3.7 of Chapter 1, Division II.
1.9.2.2.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11 and 12, Califor- nia Code of Regulations.
The Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety/Community Colleges [DSA-SS/CC] adopts the following building standards in Title 24, Part 2:
Chapters 2 through 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17A, 18A, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33 and 35.
CEBC § 1.11.8 Medium relevance — show source text
1.11.8 Service utilities. See Section 111.
1.11.9 Stop work order. See Section 114.
1.11.10 Unsafe buildings, structures and equipment. See Section 115.
1.11.11 Adopting agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to buildings identified in this Section 1.11 will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym SFM.
SECTION 1.12—STATE LIBRARIAN
RESERVED
SECTION 1.13—DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES
RESERVED
SECTION 1.14—CALIFORNIA STATE LANDS COMMISSION
RESERVED
1-20 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
Note: Sections adopted or amended by state agencies are specifically indicated by an agency banner.
Division II is not adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development except where specifically indicated.
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. Chapter 1 is in two parts: Part 1—Scope and Administration (Sections 101–102) and Part 2—Administration and Enforcement (Sections 103–117). Section 101 identifies which buildings and structures come under its purview and references other I-Codes as applicable.
This code is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document, and it cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the registered design professional, contractor and property owner.
Section 104 was revised for the 2024 edition of the IEBC. For complete information, see the Relocations table in the Preface of this code.
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Existing Building Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], herein-after referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of 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 not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the California Residential Code.
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted or referenced.
101.2.2 Application of fire code. Where work regulated by this code is also regulated by the construction requirements for existing buildings in Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code, such work shall comply with applicable requirements in both codes.
CEBC § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text
ADMINISTRATION
DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. Chapter 1 is in two parts: Part 1—Scope and Application (Sections 101–102) and Part 2—Administration and Enforcement (Sections 103–116). Section 101 identifies which buildings and structures come under its purview and references other ICodes as applicable. Standards and codes are scoped to the extent referenced (see Section 102.4).
This code is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document and it cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner. Chapter 1 is largely concerned with maintaining “due process of law” in enforcing the building performance criteria contained in the body of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this chapter will be considered by the Administrative Code Development Committee during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
Section 104 was revised for the 2024 edition. For complete information, see the Relocations table in the Preface of this code.
Note: Sections adopted or amended by state agencies are specifically indicated by an agency banner.
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
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 not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the California Residential Code .
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
[A] 101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, health and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
[A] 101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes specified in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
CEBC § 701A.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1_|Title|Y||||||||| |101.2|Scope|Y||701A.1|4901.1|||||| |101.2.1|Appendices|N||||||||| |101.3|Purpose|N||701A.2|4901.2|||||| |101.3.1|Application|Y||701A.3||||||| |101.3.1.1|Application date and
where required|Y||701A.3.1||||||| |101.4|Retroactivity|N||||||||| |101.5|Additions or
alterations|N||||||||| |101.6|Maintenance|Y||||||||| |102|Applicability|Y||||||||| |102.1|General|Y||||||||| |102.2|Other laws|Y||||||||| |102.3|Application of
references|N||||||||| |102.4|Referenced codes
and standards|N||||||||| |102.4.1|Conflicts|N||||||||| |102.4.2|Provisions in
referenced codes and
standards|N||||||||| |102.5|Subjects not
regulated by this code|N|||102.8|||||| |102.6|Matters not provided
for|Y|||102.9|||||| |102.7|Partial invalidity|N||||||||| |102.8|Existing conditions|N||||||||| |103|Code compliance
agency|N||||||||| |103.1|Creation of agency|N||||||||| |103.2|Appointment|N||||||||| |103.3|Deputies|N||||||||| |104|Duties and powers of
the code official|N||||||||| |104.1|Powers and duties of
the code official|N||||||||| |104.2|Determination of
compliance|N||||||||| |104.2.1|Technical assistance|N||||||||| |104.2.1.1|Cost|N|||||||||2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-21
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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
2025 CWUIC—continued Col2 Adopted
Yes/NoIWUIC
SectionCBC
SectionCFC
SectionTitle 14,
Division 1.5
SectionTitle 19,
Division 1
SectionGov Code
SectionPRC
SectionHSC
SectionSection Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Chapter 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration 104.2.1. CEBC § 11.3.4 Medium relevance — show source text
CEBC—2025: California Existing Building Code
1.11.3.4, 102.8, 201.3
CFC—2025: California Fire Code
1.11.3.4, 1.11.9, 1.11.10, 102.8, 105.1, 201.3, 202, 402.1.1, 402.1.2, 402.2.1, 402.2.2, 403.2.4, 404.2, 404.4, 404.5, 404.10.3, 606.1, 606.2
CRC—2025: California Residential Code
1.1.7.3.1, 102.8
NFPA National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471
252—2022: Standard on Fire Test of Door Assemblies
504.9
257—2022: Standard on Fire Test for Window and Glass Block Assemblies
504.8
CEC—2025: California Electrical Code
201.3
SFM State of California, Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Office of the State Fire Marshal, P.O. Box 944246, Sacramento, CA 94246-2460
12-7A-1: Exterior Wall Siding and Sheathing. A fire resistance test standard consisting of a 150 kW intensity direct flame exposure for a 10-minute duration
504.5, 504.9
12-7A-2: Exterior Windows. A fire resistance test standard consisting of a 150 kW intensity direct flame exposure for an 8-minute duration
504.8
12-7A-3: Horizontal Projection Underside. A fire resistance test standard consisting of a 300 kW intensity direct flame exposure for a 10-minute duration
504.3, 504.7, 504.7.1
12-7A-4: Decking. A two-part test consisting of a heat release rate (Part A) deck assembly combustion test with an under deck exposure of 80 kW intensity direct flame for a 3-minute duration, and a (Part B) sustained deck assembly combustion test consisting of a deck upper surface burning ember exposure with a 12 mph wind for 40 minutes using a 2.2 lb (1kg) burning “Class A” size 12" × 12" × 2.25" (300 mm × 300 mm × 57 mm) roof test brand
504.7.3.2
12-7A-4A: Decking Alternate Method A. A heat release rate deck assembly combustion test with an under deck exposure of 80 kW intensity direct flame for a 3-minute duration
504.7.3.2
State Fire Marshal’s Guidelines for Fire Hydrant Markings Along State Highways and Freeways, May 1988
404.8
UL UL LLC, 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096
9—2009: Fire Tests of Window Assemblies—with Revisions through March 2020
CEBC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
[California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, §1270.08] Distance Measurements.
All specified or referenced distances are measured along the ground unless otherwise stated.
1.12.2 Agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to wildland-urban interface areas identified in Section 1.12 are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections and in the Cross Reference Table located in Appendix H, Section H107.
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DIVISION II
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. Chapter 1 is in two parts: Part 1–General Provisions (Sections 101–102) and Part 2—Administration and Enforcement (Sections 103–113). Section 101 identifies which buildings and structures come under its purview and references other California Codes as applicable.
This code is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document and it cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Note: Sections adopted or amended by state agencies are specifically indicated by an agency banner or indicated in the Matrix Adoption Table.
PART 1—GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. This code applies to building materials, systems and/or assemblies used in the exterior design and construction of new buildings located within a wildland-urban interface (WUI) area and contains minimum requirements to mitigate conditions that might cause a fire originating in a structure to ignite vegetation in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) area, and conversely, a wildfire burning in vegetative fuels to transmit fire to buildings and threaten to destroy life, overwhelm fire suppression capabilities or result in large property losses.
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
[A] 101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish minimum regulations for the safeguarding of life and for property protection. Regulations in this code are intended to mitigate the risk to life and structures from intrusion of fire from wildland fire exposures and fire exposures from adjacent structures and to mitigate structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels. The extent of this regulation is intended to be tiered commensurate with the relative level of hazard present.
The unrestricted use of property in wildland-urban interface areas is a potential threat to life and property from fire and resulting erosion. Safeguards to prevent the occurrence of fires and to provide adequate fire protection facilities to control the spread of fire in wildland-urban interface areas shall be in accordance with this code.
CFC § 1207 Medium relevance — show source text
The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., 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. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7 of the CBC), interior finish (see Chapter 8 of the CBC), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and intends to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for retroactive requirements to install or upgrade fire safety features to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the CBC. Prior to the 2009 edition, its content existed in the CFC but in a random manner that was neither efficient nor user-friendly. In the 2007/2008 International Code Council (ICC) code development cycle, a code change (F294-07/ 08) was approved that consolidated the retroactive elements of CFC into a single chapter for easier and more efficient reference and application to existing buildings.
Chapter 12 Energy Systems
Chapter 12 addresses any provisions related to energy systems found in the CFC. The expansion of such energy systems is related to meeting today’s energy, environmental and economic challenges. Ensuring appropriate criteria to address the safety of such systems in building and fire codes is an important part of protecting the public at large, building occupants and emergency responders. These requirements also facilitate the successful implementation of new technologies.
All text in Section 1207 of the 2024 CFC with the following designation (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.) is reproduced with permission from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and is based upon NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Station- ary Energy Storage Systems, Copyright © 2023 NFPA. All designated text is either directly copied from the 2023 edition of NFPA 855 or as modified by the ICC Code Development Process. This material is not the complete and official position of NFPA on the referenced subject, which is represented solely by the standard in its entirety. NFPA shall not be responsible for the manner in which this information is presented, nor for any interpretations thereof.
Chapters 13 through 19 Reserved for future use.
PART IV—SPECIAL OCCUPANCIES AND OPERATIONS
Chapter 20 Aviation Facilities
Chapter 20 specifies minimum requirements for the fire-safe operation of airports, heliports and helistops. The principal nonflight operational hazards associated with aviation involve fuel, facilities and operations. Therefore, safe use of flammable and combustible liquids during fueling and maintenance operations is emphasized. Availability of portable Class B:C-rated fire extinguishers for prompt control or suppression of incipient fires is required.
Chapter 21 Dry Cleaning
CEBC § 504.9 Medium relevance — show source text
E2707—2022: Standard Test Method for Determining Fire Penetration of Exterior Wall Assemblies Using a Direct Flame Impingement Exposure
504.5, 504.9, 504.9.3
E2726/E2726M—2012a(2017): Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Fire Test Response of Deck Structures to Burning Brands
504.7.3.2, 504.7.3.3, 504.7.3.3.2
E2768—11(2018): Standard Test Method for Extended Duration Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials (30 min Tunnel Test)
503.2.4
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 7-3
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REFERENCED STANDARDS
E2886/E2886M—20: Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Ability of Exterior Vents to Resist the Entry of Embers and Direct Flame Impingement
504.10.1
E2957—2017 : Standard Test Method for Resistance to Wildfire Penetration of Eaves, Soffits and Other Projections
504.3, 504.7, 504.7.1, 504.7.2
G155—2021: Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Lamp Apparatus for Exposure of Materials
504.9.2
ICC International Code Council, Inc., 200 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Suite 250, Washington, DC 20001
CBC—2025: California Building Code
1.1.7.3.1, 1.11.2.1.2, 1.11.3.4, 1.11.6 – 1.11.10, 101.3.1, 102.8, 105.1, 105.3, 106.3, 202, 404.10.3, 501.1, 501.3, 503.1, 503.2.2, 503.2.3, 504.2.1.2, 504.3, 504.3.1, 504.5, 504.5.2, 504.6, 504.7, 504.7.3.2, 504.8, 504.11, 504.11.1
CEBC—2025: California Existing Building Code
1.11.3.4, 102.8, 201.3
CFC—2025: California Fire Code
1.11.3.4, 1.11.9, 1.11.10, 102.8, 105.1, 201.3, 202, 402.1.1, 402.1.2, 402.2.1, 402.2.2, 403.2.4, 404.2, 404.4, 404.5, 404.10.3, 606.1, 606.2
CRC—2025: California Residential Code
1.1.7.3.1, 102.8
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CEBC § 101.1 Medium relevance — show source text
This code is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document, and it cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the registered design professional, contractor and property owner.
Section 104 was revised for the 2024 edition of the IEBC. For complete information, see the Relocations table in the Preface of this code.
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Existing Building Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], herein-after referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of 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 not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the California Residential Code.
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted or referenced.
101.2.2 Application of fire code. Where work regulated by this code is also regulated by the construction requirements for existing buildings in Chapter 11 of the California Fire Code, such work shall comply with applicable requirements in both codes.
[A] 101.3 Purpose. The intent of this code is to provide flexibility to permit the use of alternative approaches to achieve compliance with minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, health, property protection and general welfare insofar as they are affected by the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of existing buildings.
[A] 101.4 Applicability. This code shall apply to the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition and relocation of existing buildings, regardless of occupancy, subject to the criteria of Sections 101.4.1 and 101.4.2.
[A] 101.4.1 Buildings not previously occupied. A building or portion of a building that has not been previously occupied or used for its intended purpose, in accordance with the laws in existence at the time of its completion, shall be permitted to comply with the provisions of the laws in existence at the time of its original permit unless such permit has expired. Subsequent permits shall comply with the California Building Code or California Residential Code, as applicable, for new construction.
[A] 101.4.2 Buildings previously occupied. The legal occupancy of any building existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the California Fire Code, or the Inter- national Property Maintenance Code, or as is deemed necessary by the code official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
[A] 101.5 Safeguards during construction. Construction work covered in this code, including any related demolition, shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 15.
CEBC § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
The purpose of Appendix C is to provide voluntary prescriptive alternatives for addressing the retrofit of buildings in high-wind areas. Currently, there are two chapters which deal with the retrofit of gable ends and the fastening of roof decks, Appendix Chapters C1 and C2, respectively. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix D Board of Appeals.
Appendix D contains the provisions for appeal and the establishment of a board of appeals. The provisions include the application for an appeal, the makeup of the board of appeals and the conduct of the appeal process.
Appendix E Temporary Emergency Uses.
Appendix E is intended to provide guidance for designers, engineers, architects and fire and building officials on allowing temporary emergency uses of existing buildings with respect to the minimum code requirements. This appendix is a template or checklist that references the relevant code requirement of concerns.
Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies.
In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, the CEBC might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code
xiv 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
officials to be able to determine the fire-resistance rating of the existing building elements as part of the overall evaluation for the assessment of the need for improvements. These guidelines are based upon the Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials published by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS).
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE xv
CEBC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
2025 CWUIC—continued Col2 Adopted
Yes/NoIWUIC
SectionCBC
SectionCFC
SectionTitle 14,
Division 1.5
SectionTitle 19,
Division 1
SectionGov Code
SectionPRC
SectionHSC
SectionSection Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Chapter 1 Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration Division I—California Administration 1.12 Board of Forestry N 1.12.1 BoF—Board of
ForestryN 1270.00
1270.01
1270.02
1270.03
1270.04
1270.05
1270.06
1270.07
1270.081.12.2 Agency Identification N Chapter 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration 101 Scope and general
requirements101.1 Title Y 101.2 Scope Y 701A.1 4901.1 101.2.1 Appendices N 101.3 Purpose N 701A.2 4901.2 101.3.1 Application Y 701A.3 101.3.1.1 Application date and
where requiredY 701A.3.1 101.4 Retroactivity N 101.5 Additions or
alterationsN 101.6 Maintenance Y 102 Applicability Y 102.1 General Y 102.2 Other laws Y 102.3 Application of
referencesN 102.4 Referenced codes
and standardsN 102.4.1 Conflicts N 102.4.2 Provisions in
referenced codes and
standardsN 102.
Frequently asked questions
When can I choose the California Residential Code instead of the CEBC?
You may elect to use the CRC for detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and qualifying townhouses not more than three stories with a separate means of egress, per § 101.2 — but confirm the project stays within the CRC’s design limits.
Are CEBC appendices enforceable by default?
No. Appendices do not apply unless specifically adopted or referenced by the jurisdiction or agency — § 101.2.1. Confirm local adoption before relying on any CEBC appendix as mandatory.
If CFC Chapter 11 has requirements, do I still use the CEBC?
Yes. When CEBC work is also regulated by CFC Chapter 11, you must comply with the applicable requirements in both codes — § 101.2.2.
What if the building was never occupied for its intended use?
A building not previously occupied may be allowed to comply with the laws in effect at the time of the original permit, or subsequent permits must follow the CBC or CRC for new construction — see § 101.4.1.
Does CEBC ever refer me to other codes for mechanical/plumbing/gas?
Yes. The building standards framework identifies referenced codes (e.g., Mechanical, Plumbing) which apply to their respective systems as adopted — see CEBC Part I references and the CEBC’s cross‑references to other Title 24 parts.
More in California Existing Building Code
- Administration and Definitions (Scope, enforcement, code official duties, definitions)
- Provisions for All Compliance Methods (general requirements that apply to all compliance options; Chapter 3 / 3A)
- Seismic retrofit and evaluation (Appendix A and seismic provisions/sections for evaluation and retrofit)
- Referenced Standards and Appendices (Chapter 16 and Appendices A–E, Resource A)
- Repairs (Chapter 4 — repair-specific rules for materials, means of egress, structural, MEP, etc.)
- Alterations — Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 (technical requirements for each alteration level; Chapters 7–9)
- Change of Occupancy and Additions (requirements for occupancy changes and additions; Chapters 10–11)
- Compliance Methods — Prescriptive, Work Area, Performance (Chapters 5, 6–11, 13)
- Relocated Buildings (requirements for buildings moved or relocated; Chapter 14)
- Construction Safeguards (site safety, means of egress and life-safety during construction; Chapter 15)
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