CEBC · California Existing Building Code
What are general requirements, scope and conformance rules for Level 1 alterations?
Level 1 alterations are limited to replacing or covering existing components with new items that serve the same purpose; you must not make the building less safe than it was (if safety would be reduced, the altered portion must meet the California Building Code), and special flood‑hazard and historic‑building rules apply — see **§ 701.1**, **§ 701.2**, **§ 701.3** in the CEBC for the controlling requirements .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Level 1 alterations are replacement or covering work that keeps building components serving the same purpose — they must follow the Chapter 7 rules for Level 1 work (§ 701.1) and the Level 1 definition in Chapter 6 (§ 602.1) . An existing building (or part of it) must not be altered so that it becomes less safe than its existing condition — that is the primary conformance rule (§ 701.2) . In flood hazard areas, alterations that meet the code’s test for substantial improvement must comply with the applicable flood-elevation rules in the California Building Code or California Residential Code (§ 701.3) .
The most important rule: an alteration cannot make the building less safe than it was before — if the alteration would reduce safety or sanitation, the altered portion must meet the California Building Code. § 701.2
Requirements in detail
Scope (what is Level 1)
- Level 1 alterations = removal and replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new items that serve the same purpose. See § 602.1 and Chapter 7 scope § 701.1 for application to Level 1 work .
- Historic buildings: Alterations to qualified historic buildings are handled under the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24 C.C.R.) rather than the standard CEBC Chapter 7 requirements; Chapter 7 notes this special path (§ 701.1) .
Conformance rule (safety / sanitation)
- The controlling plain-English rule: do not make the building less safe than its pre-alteration condition (§ 701.2) .
- Exception: If the proposed work would reduce the current level of safety or sanitation, then the altered portion must conform to the requirements of the California Building Code (CBC) (the CEBC exception to § 701.2) .
Flood-hazard special rule
- In flood hazard areas, alterations that constitute substantial improvement must comply with Section 1612 of the CBC or Section R306 of the CRC, as applicable (§ 701.3). The CEBC points you to those CBC/CRC provisions for flood-elevation and flood-design requirements .
- Note: the CEBC text in § 701.3 references the CBC/CRC requirements but does not restate the CBC/CRC text; consult those codes to determine what triggers “substantial improvement” and the exact elevation/mitigation obligations.
Quick-reference decision table
| Decision dimension | Key value / test | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Is the work Level 1? | Removal/replacement or covering with new materials that serve the same purpose | § 602.1; Chapter 7 scope § 701.1 |
| Conformance baseline | Altered building must not be less safe than existing building | § 701.2 |
| If safety/sanitation would be reduced | Altered portion must comply with California Building Code (i.e., bring affected portion up to CBC) | § 701.2 (Exception) |
| Flood-hazard trigger | If alteration = substantial improvement in a flood hazard area → comply with CBC §1612 or CRC §R306 | § 701.3 |
| Historic buildings | Use California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24, CCR) instead of Chapter 7 where applicable | Chapter 7 / § 701.1 |
Exceptions & special cases
- If the work would reduce safety or sanitation, the CEBC explicitly requires the altered portion to meet the CBC — you cannot accept a lower level of safety under Chapter 7 (§ 701.2, Exception) .
- Historic buildings: CEBC Chapter 7 directs that qualified historic buildings follow the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24 C.C.R.) rather than the standard Chapter 7 provisions (§ 701.1) .
- Flood hazard areas: when an alteration is a substantial improvement, the CEBC requires compliance with the CBC flood provisions or the CRC residential flood provisions — see § 701.3 for the pointer to CBC §1612 or CRC §R306; the CEBC text does not reproduce those CBC/CRC criteria, so consult those codes for the “substantial improvement” test (§ 701.3) .
Common mistakes
- Treating all replacement work as automatically acceptable without checking whether the new materials reduce safety (e.g., replacing a fire-resistive finish with a lower-rated material). Remember § 701.2: you cannot make the building less safe .
- Misclassifying work that adds or moves doors, windows, partitions or systems as Level 1 when those activities are Level 2 (space reconfiguration / system extension). Check the definitions in § 602.1 and § 603.1 before assuming Level 1 applies .
- Ignoring flood-hazard triggers: alterations that qualify as substantial improvement in flood zones require CBC/CRC compliance per § 701.3 — do not assume Level 1 rules alone cover flood-design obligations .
- Forgetting historic-building routing: for qualified historic properties, Chapter 7 defers to the Historical Building Code (Part 8) — do not apply the standard Chapter 7 upgrade triggers to historic buildings without confirming eligibility (§ 701.1) .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A 3,000 ft² retail tenant replaces the entire floor finish and replaces damaged ceiling tiles and light fixtures; no walls, doors, windows or building systems are added or moved.
- Classification: The work is removal and replacement of finishes and fixtures that serve the same purpose — this fits Level 1 per § 602.1 and falls under Chapter 7 per § 701.1 .
- Conformance check: Evaluate whether the new finishes or fixtures make the space less safe than before (slip resistance of the floor, fire performance of ceiling finishes, adequacy of lighting for egress). If any replacement reduces safety or sanitation, the altered portion must be brought into compliance with the California Building Code as required by the § 701.2 exception .
- Flood-hazard check: If the building is in a flood hazard area and the floor/ceiling/fixture work rises to the local definition of substantial improvement, the project must meet flood-elevation/design requirements in CBC §1612 or CRC §R306 per § 701.3 — otherwise, standard Chapter 7 conformance applies. Note: CEBC §701.3 points to those CBC/CRC sections but does not define “substantial improvement” itself; consult CBC/CRC text and local flood maps to decide if that test is met .
Practical result: Most standard finish and fixture replacements that do not lower fire/safety performance remain Level 1 work and proceed under Chapter 7 — but perform the safety/sanitation and flood checks before assuming no upgrades are required.
Related provisions (see these sections next)
- § 602.1 — Definition / scope of Alteration — Level 1 (Chapter 6)
- § 603.1 — Scope of Alteration — Level 2 (helps distinguish Level 1 vs Level 2)
- § 701.1 — Chapter 7 scope and historic-building note (Chapter 7, Level 1 general)
- § 701.2 — Conformance rule: do not make building less safe; exception requiring CBC if safety/sanitation reduced
- § 701.3 — Flood-hazard areas: substantial improvement → comply with CBC §1612 or CRC §R306
- For the flood-elevation and “substantial improvement” detail, consult CBC §1612 and CRC §R306 as referenced in § 701.3 (CEBC points to those codes for the technical flood rules)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 701.1 High relevance — show source text
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. The window replacement includes replacement of the sash and frame. 2.2. The window replacement includes the sash only where the existing frame remains.
- One of the following applies: 3.1. In Group R-2 or R-3 buildings containing dwelling units, the bottom of the clear opening of the window opening is at a height less than 36 inches (915 mm) above the finished floor. 3.2. In one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses regulated by the California Residential Code, the bottom of the clear opening of the window opening is at a height less than 24 inches (610 mm) above the finished floor.
- The window will permit openings that will allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere when the window is in its largest opened position.
- The vertical distance from the bottom of the clear opening of the window opening to the finished grade or other surface below, on the exterior of the building, is greater than 72 inches (1829 mm).
Exception: Operable windows where the bottom of the clear opening of the window opening is located more than 75 feet (22 860 mm) above the finished grade or other surface below, on the exterior of the room, space or building, and that are provided with window fall prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2006.
702.5 Replacement window for emergency escape and rescue openings. Where windows are required to provide emergency escape and rescue openings in Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies and one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses regulated by the California Residential Code, replacement windows shall be exempt from the requirements of Section 1031.3 of the California Building Code and Section R310.2 of the California Residential Code, provided that the replacement window meets the following conditions: 1.
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 § 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 § 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.
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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 § 601.1.1 High relevance — show source text
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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 § 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 § 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 § 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 § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
xii 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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 § 8-6 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8-6 ACCESSIBILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Section
8-601 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8-602 Basic Provisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8-603 Alternatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
8-604 Equivalent Facilitation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
CHAPTER 8-7 STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Section
8-701 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-702 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8-703 Structural Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-704 Nonhistorical Additions and
Nonhistorical Alterations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8-705 Structural Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 8-706 Lateral Load Regulations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
CHAPTER 8-8 ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND METHODS OF
CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Section
8-801 Purpose, Intent and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-802 General Engineering Approaches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-803 Nonstructural Archaic Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
8-804 Allowable Conditions for Specific Materials . . . . . . . 15 8-805 Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 8-806 Adobe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
8-807 Wood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
8-808 Concrete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
CEBC § 722.5.2 High relevance — show source text
FIGURE 722.5.2—DETERMINATION OF THE HEATED PERIMETER OF STRUCTURAL STEEL BEAMS AND GIRDERS
722.5.2.1 Determination of fire resistance. These procedures establish a basis for determining resistance of structural steel beams and girders that differ in size from that specified in approved fire-resistance-rated assemblies as a function of the thickness of fire-resistant material and the weight ( W) and heated perimeter (D) of the beam or girder. As used in these sections, W is the average weight of a structural steel element in pounds per linear foot (plf). The heated perimeter, D, is the inside perimeter of the fire-resistant material in inches as illustrated in Figure 722.5.2.
722.5.2.1.1 Weight-to-heated perimeter. The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratios (W/D), for both contour and box fire-resistant protection profiles, for the wide flange shapes most often used as beams or girders are given in Table 722.5.1(4). For different shapes, the weight-to-heated-perimeter ratios (W/D) shall be determined in accordance with the definitions given in this section.
722.5.2.1.2 Beam and girder substitutions. Except as provided for in Section 722.5.2.2, structural steel beams in approved fire-resistance-rated assemblies shall be considered to be the minimum permissible size. Other beam or girder shapes shall be permitted to be substituted provided that the weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio (W/D) of the substitute beam is equal to or greater than that of the beam specified in the approved assembly.
722.5.2.2 Sprayed fire-resistive materials (SFRM). The provisions in this section apply to structural steel beams and girders protected with sprayed fire-resistive materials ( SFRM ). Larger or smaller beam and girder shapes shall be permitted to be substituted for beams specified in approved unrestrained or restrained fire-resistance-rated assemblies, provided that the thickness of the SFRM is adjusted in accordance with the following expression:
Equation 7-17 h 2 = h 1 [( W 1 / D 1 ) + 0.60] / [( W 2 / D 2 ) + 0.60]
where:
h = Thickness of SFRM in inches.
W = Weight of the structural steel beam or girder in pounds per linear foot.
D = Heated perimeter of the structural steel beam in inches.
Subscript 1 refers to the beam and SFRM thickness in the approved assembly.
Subscript 2 refers to the substitute beam or girder and the required thickness of SFRM .
The fire resistance of structural steel beams and girders protected with intumescent fire-resistive materials shall be determined on the basis of fire-resistance tests in accordance with Section 703.2.
722.5.2.2.1 Minimum thickness. The use of Equation 7-17 is subject to the following conditions:
- The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio for the substitute beam or girder (W 2 /D 2 ) shall be not less than 0.37.
- The thickness of fire protection materials calculated for the substitute beam or girder (T 1 ) shall be not less than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm).
Frequently asked questions
When is a locker-room tile replacement Level 1 versus Level 2?
If you only remove and replace the tile with like-purpose tile (no reconfiguration or added systems), it is Level 1 per § 602.1. If you move partitions or add plumbing or change door locations, that can push the work to Level 2 per § 603.1 .
Can I use a lower-rated finish material when replacing an interior finish under Level 1?
No — the CEBC requires that the alteration not make the building less safe than before; if the new finish reduces safety or sanitation, the altered portion must comply with the CBC as noted in the § 701.2 exception .
Does Chapter 7 apply to historic buildings?
Qualified historic buildings follow the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24 CCR) rather than the full Chapter 7 provisions; see § 701.1 for that direction .
If my Level 1 work occurs in a flood zone, do I always need to elevate?
Not always — § 701.3 requires CBC/CRC compliance only when the alteration meets the code’s test for substantial improvement; the CEBC points you to CBC §1612 or CRC §R306 for the flood-design rules and the substantial-improvement test .
Where do I find the detailed list of Chapter 7 technical requirements?
Chapter 7 itself contains the Level 1 technical provisions (building elements, fire protection, egress, reroofing, structural, energy), and Chapter 6/§ 602.1 defines Level 1 scope — start with § 701.1, § 701.2, and § 701.3, then read the specific Section(s) in Chapter 7 that apply to your element (e.g., finishes, reroofing) .
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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