CEBC · California Existing Building Code
How does CEBC define Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 alterations and which chapters apply?
The CEBC groups alterations into three levels. Identify the project’s work area (Chapter 2) and then: Level 1 = replacement/covering (Chapter 7); Level 2 = space or system reconfiguration where work area is ≤ 50% (Chapters 7 and 8); Level 3 = work area > 50% (Chapters 7, 8 and 9). See **§ 601.1**, **§ 601.2**, **§ 602.1–602.2**, **§ 603.1–603.2**, **§ 604.1–604.2** for the controlling code text.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The CEBC classifies alteration work using the Work Area Method: the work area must be identified on the drawings and the classification rules in Chapter 6 control which alteration chapter applies. Per § 601.1 the provisions of Chapter 6 are used together with Chapters 7–11 to classify and regulate alterations . The code defines Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 alterations by scope and by the work area threshold, and assigns the applicable technical chapters for each level (Chapters 7, 8 and 9) — see § 602.1, § 603.1 and § 604.1 (applications in § 602.2, § 603.2, § 604.2) .
The single most important rule: classify your project by calculating the work area (Chapter 2) and then apply the CEBC level definitions — Level 1 (component replacement), Level 2 (reconfiguration ≤ 50 percent), or Level 3 (reconfiguration > 50 percent) — then follow the chapters specified for that level (Chapters 7, 8, 9) as required by the cited sections. § 601.2, § 602.1, § 603.1, § 604.1 .
Requirements in detail
Key definitions (plain language, with controlling §)
- Work area — identify the project work area on the construction documents (as defined in Chapter 2). § 601.2 .
- Level 1 alteration — removal and replacement or covering of existing materials/elements/equipment/fixtures with like-purpose new ones (no space reconfiguration). § 602.1; apply Chapter 7 per § 602.2 .
- Level 2 alteration — addition or elimination of a door/window, reconfiguration or extension of any system, or installation of additional equipment where the work area is equal to or less than 50 percent of the building area. § 603.1; apply Chapters 7 and 8 per § 603.2 .
- Exception: moving/adding nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) tall is not Level 2. § 603.1 (Exception) .
- Level 3 alteration — applies where the work area exceeds 50 percent of the building area. § 604.1; apply Chapters 7, 8 and 9 per § 604.2 .
Decision table — what to check and where it’s written
| Decision dimension | Key values / trigger | What that means | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Is the work area shown on drawings? | Work area must be identified | Required step before classification | § 601.2 |
| Use of Chapter 6 | Use Chapters 6–11 together to classify work | Chapter 6 defines the levels; Chapters 7–11 contain technical requirements | § 601.1 |
| Level 1 scope | Replacement/covering of existing items; no reconfiguration | Apply Chapter 7 requirements | § 602.1, § 602.2 |
| Level 2 trigger | Work area ≤ 50 percent of building area; adds/eliminates doors/windows; reconfigures or extends systems; installs equipment | Apply Chapters 7 (Level 1) and 8 (Level 2) | § 603.1, § 603.2 |
| Level 2 exception | Partitions/counters/racks ≤ 5 ft 9 in (1753 mm) and nonfixed | Not considered Level 2 | § 603.1 (Exception) |
| Level 3 trigger | Work area > 50 percent of building area | Apply Chapters 7, 8 and 9 | § 604.1, § 604.2 |
How chapters stack
- A Level 1 project follows Chapter 7 (technical requirements for replacement/covering). § 602.2 .
- A Level 2 project must comply with Chapter 7 and Chapter 8; Chapter 7 requirements still apply in addition to the Level 2 rules. § 603.2 .
- A Level 3 project must comply with Chapters 7 and 8 (the Level 1/2 provisions) and Chapter 9. § 604.2 .
Exceptions & special cases
- The CEBC explicitly excludes small, movable, low partitions and fixtures (≤ 5 ft 9 in / 1753 mm) from being Level 2 work — treat them as Level 1 work unless other triggers apply (§ 603.1 Exception) .
- Chapter 6 is to be used in conjunction with Chapters 7–11; certain agency adoptions and occupancy types may restrict the use of Chapters 6–11 for some occupancies (see exceptions in § 601.1) .
- The work area measurement methodology (how to calculate the numerator and denominator) is defined in Chapter 2 — you must use that definition when applying the 50 percent tests referenced in § 603.1 and § 604.1; see § 601.2 for the document requirement and Chapter 2 for the definition § 601.2 .
Common mistakes
- Miscalculating the work area (forgetting to use the Chapter 2 definition) and applying the wrong level — CEBC requires the work area be identified on the drawings (§ 601.2) .
- Treating every partition or fixture change as Level 2; small, nonfixed partitions/fixtures ≤ 5 ft 9 in are excluded from Level 2 per § 603.1 (Exception) .
- Assuming Level 2 only requires Chapter 8 — Level 2 work must also meet Chapter 7 requirements (see § 603.2) .
- Assuming Level 3 replaces Chapters 7–8 — it supplements them: Level 3 requires compliance with Chapters 7 and 8 in addition to Chapter 9 (§ 604.2) .
- Forgetting that Chapter 6 must be used with Chapters 7–11; classification is not optional (§ 601.1) .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: Existing office building with total building area = 10,000 sq ft. The project work area (per Chapter 2 measurement) is 4,800 sq ft and involves adding several new interior doors and reconfiguring a bank of existing mechanical ducts.
- Compare work area vs building area: 4,800 / 10,000 = 48%. The work area is equal to or less than 50 percent, so the alteration is Level 2 by § 603.1 .
- Scope check: reconfiguration of space/system additions matches the Level 2 scope in § 603.1 .
- Apply chapters: the project must comply with Chapter 7 (Level 1 rules) and Chapter 8 (Level 2 requirements) as required by § 603.2 .
- Exceptions: if the work were only to move nonfixed display racks under 5 ft 9 in, it might not be Level 2 (see § 603.1 Exception) .
If instead the work area had been 6,000 sq ft (60%), the project would be Level 3 and would need to comply with Chapters 7, 8 and 9 per § 604.1 and § 604.2 .
Related provisions
- § 601.1 — Use of Chapter 6 with Chapters 7–11; scope and applicability of classification of work.
- § 601.2 — Work area must be identified on construction documents (see Chapter 2 for the definition).
- § 602.1 — Scope (definition) of Level 1 alterations.
- § 602.2 — Application: Level 1 alterations comply with Chapter 7.
- § 603.1 — Scope of Level 2 (includes the 5 ft 9 in exception).
- § 603.2 — Application: Level 2 must comply with Chapters 7 and 8.
- § 604.1 — Scope of Level 3 (work area exceeds 50 percent).
- § 604.2 — Application: Level 3 must comply with Chapters 7, 8 and 9.
(For chapter synopses and expanded context on Chapters 7–9 see the CEBC chapter introductions and matrix summaries.) file
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 601.1.1 High relevance — show source text
601.1.1 Compliance with other alternatives. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing structures shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 through 11 or with one of the alternatives provided in Section 301.3.
601.2 Work area. The work area, as defined in Chapter 2, shall be identified on the construction documents.
SECTION 602—ALTERATION—LEVEL 1
602.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations include the removal and replacement or the covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials, elements, equipment or fixtures that serve the same purpose.
602.2 Application. Level 1 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.
SECTION 603—ALTERATION—LEVEL 2
603.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations include the addition or elimination of any door or window, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of any additional equipment, and shall apply where the work area is equal to or less than 50 percent of the building area.
Exception: The movement or addition of nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height shall not be considered a Level 2 alteration.
603.2 Application. Level 2 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7 for Level 1 alterations as well as the provisions of Chapter 8.
SECTION 604—ALTERATION—LEVEL 3
604.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations apply where the work area exceeds 50 percent of the building area.
604.2 Application. Level 3 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 and 8 for Level 1 and 2 alterations, respectively, as well as the provisions of Chapter 9.
SECTION 605—CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
605.1 Scope. Change of occupancy provisions apply where the activity is classified as a change of occupancy as defined in Chapter 2.
605.2 Application. Changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10.
SECTION 606—ADDITIONS
606.1 Scope. Provisions for additions shall apply where work is classified as an addition as defined in Chapter 2.
606.2 Application. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 11.
SECTION 607—HISTORIC BUILDINGS
607.1 Scope. The provisions of the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R) shall apply to qualified historical buildings or properties.
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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 7 – ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
CEBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 5A Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing build- ings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 6 Classification of Work.
Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method and defines the different classifications of work including alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in subsequent Chapters 7 through 11.
Chapter 7 Alterations—Level 1.
Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by only involving replacement of building components with new components with no reconfiguration of space.
Chapter 8 Alterations—Level 2.
A Level 2 alteration is an alteration involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building or addition of a new building system. Level 2 alterations also include the extension or addition of any system or equipment. The purpose of Chapter 8 is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, means of egress, fire protection, structural systems, energy efficiency, and other building systems include electrical, mechanical and plumbing when a building is being altered.
Chapter 9 Alterations—Level 3.
Chapter 9 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 3 alterations. Level 3 alterations are those involving alterations that cover 50 percent of the aggregate area of the building. Under certain situations, this chapter also intends to improve the safety of certain building features beyond the work area and in other parts of the building where no alteration work might be taking place.
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
CEBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
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Chapter 3 Provisions for All Compliance Methods.
Chapter 3 guides the use of the three compliance methods of the CEBC and provides requirements that apply globally. The globally applicable requirement include general requirements related to buildings materials and other applicable codes, storm shelters, structural loads, in-situ load tests, accessibility, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detection and exterior wall coverings.
Chapter 3A Provisions for All Compliance Methods.
Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 4 Repairs.
Chapter 4, a chapter independent of the three compliance methods, governs the repair of existing buildings. The provisions define conditions under which repairs may be made using materials and methods like those of the original construction or the extent to which repairs must comply with requirements for new buildings.
Chapter 4A Repairs.
Chapter 4A governs the repair of existing buildings regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of State- wide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 5 Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5 provides one of the three main options of compliance available in the CEBC for buildings and structures undergoing alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The base requirements are more administrative in nature. The structural triggers for upgrades are consistent with the Work Area Method.
Chapter 5A Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing build- ings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 6 Classification of Work.
Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method and defines the different classifications of work including alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in subsequent Chapters 7 through 11.
Chapter 7 Alterations—Level 1.
Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by only involving replacement of building components with new components with no reconfiguration of space.
Chapter 8 Alterations—Level 2.
A Level 2 alteration is an alteration involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building or addition of a new building system. Level 2 alterations also include the extension or addition of any system or equipment. The purpose of Chapter 8 is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, means of egress, fire protection, structural systems, energy efficiency, and other building systems include electrical, mechanical and plumbing when a building is being altered.
Chapter 9 Alterations—Level 3.
CEBC § 604.1 High relevance — show source text
604.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations apply where the work area exceeds 50 percent of the building area.
604.2 Application. Level 3 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 and 8 for Level 1 and 2 alterations, respectively, as well as the provisions of Chapter 9.
SECTION 605—CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
605.1 Scope. Change of occupancy provisions apply where the activity is classified as a change of occupancy as defined in Chapter 2.
605.2 Application. Changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10.
SECTION 606—ADDITIONS
606.1 Scope. Provisions for additions shall apply where work is classified as an addition as defined in Chapter 2.
606.2 Application. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 11.
SECTION 607—HISTORIC BUILDINGS
607.1 Scope. The provisions of the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R) shall apply to qualified historical buildings or properties.
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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 7 – ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt Entire Chapter X X Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section 701.1 X 702.7 X 703.2 X 703.2.1 X _703.2. CEBC § 901.1 High relevance — show source text
In contrast, Level 1 alterations do not involve space reconfiguration, and Level 2 alterations involve extensive space reconfiguration that does not exceed 50 percent of the building area. Depending on the nature of alteration work, its location within the building, and whether it encompasses one or more tenants, improvements and upgrades could be required for the open floor penetrations, sprinkler system or the installation of additional means of egress such as stairs or fire escapes. At times and under certain situations, this chapter also is intended to improve the safety of certain building features beyond the work area and in other parts of the building where no alteration work might be taking place.
SECTION 901—GENERAL
901.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations as described in Section 604 shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
901.2 Compliance. In addition to the provisions of this chapter, work shall comply with all of the requirements of Chapters 7 and 8. The requirements of Sections 802, 803, 804 and 805 shall apply within all work areas whether or not they include exits and corridors shared by more than one tenant and regardless of the occupant load.
Exception: Buildings in which the reconfiguration of space affecting exits or shared egress access is exclusively the result of compliance with the accessibility requirements of Section 306.7.1 shall not be required to comply with this chapter.
SECTION 902—SPECIAL USE AND OCCUPANCY
902.1 Reserved.
902.2 Group R-2.1 occupancies. Group R-2.1 occupancies shall be classified in accordance with Section 308.2 of the California Build- ing Code .
902.2.1 Smoke barriers in Group R-2.1 . In Group R-2.1 occupancies where the work area is on a story used for sleeping rooms for more than 30 care recipients, the story shall be divided into not fewer than two compartments by smoke barrier walls in accordance with Section 420.6 of the California Building Code .
902.3 Ambulatory care facilities. Where a Level 3 work area includes an existing ambulatory care facility, the following shall be provided:
- A smoke compartment in accordance with Section 422.3 of the California Building Code, where the alteration results in an ambulatory care facility greater than 10,000 square feet on one story.
- Separation from adjacent spaces in accordance with Section 422.2 of the California Building Code, where any such facility has the potential for four or more care recipients incapable of self-preservation at any time.
SECTION 903—BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS
903.1 Existing shafts and vertical openings. Existing stairways that are part of the means of egress shall be enclosed in accordance with Section 802.2.1 from the highest work area floor to, and including, the level of exit discharge and all floors below.
903.2 Fire partitions in Group R-3. Fire separation in Group R-3 occupancies shall be in accordance with Section 903.2.1.
CEBC § 601.1.1 High relevance — show source text
1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |601.1.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |607.1|||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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6 CLASSIFICATION OF WORK
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method available as an option for rehabilitation of a building. The chapter defines the different classifications of alterations and provides general requirements for alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in Chapters 7 through 11.
SECTION 601—GENERAL
601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall be used in conjunction with Chapters 7 through 11 and shall apply to the alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing structures, as referenced in Section 301.3.2. The work performed on an existing building shall be classified in accordance with this chapter. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R.
Exceptions: 1. [SFM] Use of Chapters 6-11 is not permitted in H, I and L, R-2.1, R-3.1 occupancies and high-rise buildings. 2. [BSC] Use of Chapters 6-11 is not permitted in occupancies, buildings and applications regulated by Building Standards Commission and listed in Section 1.2.
601.1.1 Compliance with other alternatives. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing structures shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 through 11 or with one of the alternatives provided in Section 301.3.
601.2 Work area. The work area, as defined in Chapter 2, shall be identified on the construction documents.
SECTION 602—ALTERATION—LEVEL 1
602.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations include the removal and replacement or the covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials, elements, equipment or fixtures that serve the same purpose.
602.2 Application. Level 1 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.
SECTION 603—ALTERATION—LEVEL 2
603.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations include the addition or elimination of any door or window, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of any additional equipment, and shall apply where the work area is equal to or less than 50 percent of the building area.
Exception: The movement or addition of nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height shall not be considered a Level 2 alteration.
603.2 Application. Level 2 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7 for Level 1 alterations as well as the provisions of Chapter 8.
SECTION 604—ALTERATION—LEVEL 3
CEBC § 2.2 High relevance — show source text
2.2_|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |703.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |704.3||||†|†||||||||||||||||||||
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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7 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 603, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter, similar to other chapters of this code, covers all building-related subjects, such as structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical and accessibility as well as the fire and life safety issues when the alterations are classified as Level 1. The purpose of this chapter is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, building spaces and building structural system. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by involving only replacement of building components with new components. In contrast, Level 2 alterations involve more space reconfiguration, and Level 3 alterations involve more extensive space reconfiguration, exceeding 50 percent of the building area.
SECTION 701—GENERAL
701.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602 shall comply with the requirements of this chapter. Alterations to historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R.
701.2 Conformance. An existing building or portion thereof shall not be altered such that the building becomes less safe than its existing condition.
Exception: Where the current level of safety or sanitation is proposed to be reduced, the portion altered shall conform to the requirements of the California Building Code .
[BS] 701.3 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas, alterations that constitute substantial improvement shall require that the building comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
SECTION 702—BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS
702.1 Interior finishes. Newly installed interior wall and ceiling finishes shall comply with Chapter 8 of the California Building Code .
702.2 Interior floor finish. New interior floor finish, including new carpeting used as an interior floor finish material, shall comply with Section 804 of the California Building Code .
702.3 Interior trim. Newly installed interior trim materials shall comply with Section 806 of the California Building Code .
702.4 Window fall prevention. In Group R-2 or R-3 buildings containing dwelling units and one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses regulated by the California Residential Code, window opening control devices or other window fall prevention devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be installed where an existing window is replaced and where all of the following apply to the replacement window:
- The window is operable.
- One of the following applies: 2.1.
CEBC § 5A-3 High relevance — show source text
METHOD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-3
501A General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-3
502A Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-4
503A Alterations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-5
504A Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-7
505A Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-7
506A Change of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5A-7
CHAPTER 6 CLASSIFICATION OF WORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
602 Alteration—Level 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
603 Alteration—Level 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
604 Alteration—Level 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
605 Change of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
606 Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
607 Historic Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
CHAPTER 7 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3
701 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
702 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
CEBC § 701.1 High relevance — show source text
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt Entire Chapter X X Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section 701.1 X 702.7 X 703.2 X 703.2.1 X 703.2.2 X 703.3 X 704.3 † † 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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7 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 603, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter, similar to other chapters of this code, covers all building-related subjects, such as structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical and accessibility as well as the fire and life safety issues when the alterations are classified as Level 1. The purpose of this chapter is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, building spaces and building structural system. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by involving only replacement of building components with new components. In contrast, Level 2 alterations involve more space reconfiguration, and Level 3 alterations involve more extensive space reconfiguration, exceeding 50 percent of the building area.
SECTION 701—GENERAL
CEBC § 6-3 High relevance — show source text
601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
602 Alteration—Level 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
603 Alteration—Level 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
604 Alteration—Level 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
605 Change of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
606 Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
607 Historic Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
CHAPTER 7 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3
701 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
702 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
703 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
704 Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
705 Reroofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
706 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
707 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
708 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
CHAPTER 8 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3
801 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
802 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 8-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
8-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
8 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 2
User notes:
About this chapter: Like Chapter 7, the purpose of this chapter is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, building spaces and building structural system when a building is being altered. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 7 and 9 by involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building. In contrast, Level 1 alterations (Chapter 7) do not involve space reconfiguration, and Level 3 alterations (Chapter 9) involve extensive space reconfiguration that exceeds 50 percent of the building area. Depending on the nature of alteration work, its location within the building, and whether it encompasses one or more tenants, improvements and upgrades could be required for the open floor penetrations, sprinkler system or the installation of additional means of egress such as stairs or fire escapes.
SECTION 801—GENERAL
801.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations as described in Section 603 shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
Exception: Buildings in which the reconfiguration is exclusively the result of compliance with the accessibility requirements of Section 306.7.1 shall be permitted to comply with Chapter 7.
801.2 Alteration Level 1 compliance. In addition to the requirements of this chapter, all work shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 7.
801.3 System installations. Requirements related to work area are not applicable where the Level 2 alterations are limited solely to one or more of the following:
- Mechanical systems, electrical systems, fire protection systems and abatement of hazardous materials.
- Windows, hardware, operating controls, electrical outlets and signs.
- Alterations undertaken for the primary purpose of increasing the accessibility of a facility.
801.4 Compliance. New construction elements, components, systems and spaces shall comply with the requirements of the Califor- nia Building Code .
Exceptions:
Where windows are added they are not required to comply with the light and ventilation requirements of the California Building Code .
Newly installed electrical equipment shall comply with the requirements of Section 806.
The length of dead-end corridors in newly constructed spaces shall only be required to comply with the provisions of Section 804.8.
The minimum ceiling height of the newly created habitable and occupiable spaces and corridors shall be 7 feet (2134 mm).
Where provided in below-grade transportation stations, existing and new escalators shall be permitted to have a clear width of less than 32 inches (815 mm).
New structural members and connections shall be permitted to comply with alternative design criteria in accordance with Section 302.
SECTION 802—BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS
802.1 Scope. The requirements of this section are limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are being performed and shall apply beyond the work area where specified.
CEBC § 8.2.1.2 High relevance — show source text
RESOURCE A-120 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
Accessibility 1.8.2.1.2, 1.9.1, 104.2.4, 306, 801.1, 901.2, 1101.2, 1508, Appendix B Additions Chapter 11, 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 104.3, 104.3.1, 104.2.4.1, 106.2.3, 109.3.3, 113.2, 115.5, 202, 301.1, 301.3, 302.2, 302.2.1, 303.2, 304.1, 304.2, 307.1, 308.1, 309, 501.1, 502, 601.1, 606, 1301.1, 1301.1.1, 1302.1, 1302.1.3, 1303.1, 1304.1.1, 1304.1.3, 1501.3, 1505.2 Administration Chapter 1 Alterations Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 101.6, 104.3, 104.3.1, 104.3.2, 104.2.4.1, 105.1.1, 105.1.2, 105.2.2, 105.2.3, 106.2.3, 106.2.6, 108.5, 110.2, 113.2, 115.5, 202, 301.1, 301.3, 302.2, 302.2.1, 302.4, 304, 307.1, 308.1, 309.1, 501.1, 501.1.1, 502.1, 502.3, 502.4, 503, 504.1, 601.1, 602, 603, 604, 1101.3, 1103.1, 1103.2, 1301.1, 1301.1.1, 1302.1, 1302.1.4, 1302.1.6, 1303.1, 1304.1.1, 1304.1.3, 1307.1.1, 1401.2, 1501.3, 1504.1, 1505.2, A105.2, A304.1.1, A402.1, A403.2 Level 1 Chapter 7, 104.3.2, 602, 603.2, 604.2, 801.2 Level 2 Chapter 8, 106.2.3, 505.2, 603 Level 3 Chapter 9, 106.2.3, 604, 1011.4 Alternative Materials, Design and Methods of Construction 104.2.3 Ambulatory Care Facility 202, 302.2.1, 406.1.2, 408.3, 501.3, 503.15, 503.17,
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is the “work area” and where is it defined?
The CEBC requires that the work area be identified on the construction documents (§ 601.2) and refers to the definition in Chapter 2; use that Chapter 2 definition when applying the 50% threshold tests. § 601.2
If I only replace HVAC equipment, which level applies?
If the work is limited solely to mechanical, electrical, fire protection systems or hazardous-material abatement (no space reconfiguration), Level 2 work-area rules may not apply; Chapter 8 includes provisions recognizing system-only work (see Chapter 8 scope and Section 801.3 for system-only limitations). § 603.1, § 801.3 file
Do small movable partitions trigger Level 2?
No — nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 ft 9 in (1753 mm) in height are excluded from Level 2 per the exception in § 603.1. § 603.1 (Exception)
If my project is Level 2, do I ignore Chapter 7?
No — Level 2 projects must comply with the provisions of Chapter 7 (Level 1) as well as Chapter 8 per § 603.2. § 603.2
Where can I find short summaries of Chapters 7–9?
Chapter introductions and the CEBC chapter synopses summarize scope and intent; see the Chapter synopses and matrix (Chapter summaries) for guidance on when each chapter applies.
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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