CEBC · California Existing Building Code
When are guards, fire-resistance upgrades and system installations required?
If Level 2 work creates a floor edge or balcony more than 30 inches above the floor/grade, install a guard; adding a building‑wide, approved sprinkler system can allow reconsideration of fire‑resistance upgrade triggers but only after plans and evaluation reports are submitted and the code official approves.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
- For guards: any portion of a floor (for example a balcony or loading dock) that is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below in a work area must be provided with a guard; if existing guards are judged unsafe they must be replaced and new guards must be built to the current code design rules — § 802.5 .
- For fire‑resistance upgrades: if an automatic sprinkler system (installed per CBC Sections 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2) is added and the building is sprinklered throughout, the code official may allow the building elements’ fire‑resistance ratings to be held to the current Building Code levels (subject to review and other applicable CBC requirements) — § 802.6 .
- For system installations during Level 2 alterations: fire protection and life‑safety system requirements in Chapter 8 are limited to the work areas where Level 2 work is performed; automatic sprinklers and alarms are addressed by the referenced CBC/CFC sections — § 803.1 and § 803.2 .
The short rule: if Level 2 work creates or exposes hazards (e.g., a floor edge > 30 in (762 mm)), install a guard; if you sprinkler the whole building and the code official approves, some fire‑resistance upgrade triggers can be reduced — see § 802.5, § 802.6, § 803.1.
Requirements in detail
1) Guards (When and how)
- Trigger: any portion of a floor more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below within a work area. Bold threshold is in § 802.5.1 and the design requirement in § 802.5.2.
- Action: provide a guard where none exists or replace existing guards judged to be in danger of collapsing. New or replacement guards must be designed and installed in accordance with the California Building Code (CBC) as required by § 802.5.2.
2) Fire‑resistance ratings (When an upgrade can be avoided or modified)
- Baseline: Level 2 alterations can trigger upgrades to fire‑resistance ratings of building elements depending on the work. The CEBC allows a path where adding an approved, building‑wide automatic sprinkler system may permit application of current CBC fire‑resistance ratings (subject to approval by the code official). See § 802.6.
- Process: the applicant must submit plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data identifying which elements (walls, floors, assemblies, etc.) are proposed to meet current CBC ratings — § 802.6 requires this documentation for the code official’s review.
3) System installations (Scope and referenced standards)
- Scope: § 803.1 limits the Chapter 8 fire protection requirements to Level 2 work areas and indicates some requirements may apply throughout the floor or beyond the work area when specified.
- Sprinklers and alarms: automatic sprinkler systems must be provided in accordance with CBC Section 903 and the California Fire Code as called out in § 803.2; fire alarm/detection installations are governed by the CFC sections referenced in § 803.4.
Decision table — quick reference
| Decision factor | Trigger / threshold | Required action | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guard required | Portion of floor > 30 in (762 mm) above floor/grade in a work area | Provide guard; replace unsafe guards | § 802.5.1, § 802.5.2 |
| Guard design | No guard or guard replacement | Design/installation per CBC | § 802.5.2 |
| Fire‑resistance upgrade relief | Building is sprinklered throughout with approved system (CBC 903.3.1.1 / 903.3.1.2) and code official approval | May apply current CBC fire‑resistance ratings to building elements (subject to other CBC requirements); submit evaluation reports | § 802.6 |
| Corridor fire rating reduction | Approved building‑wide sprinkler system with required stair landing coverage | Corridor fire‑resistance rating permitted to be reduced per CBC | § 803.1.1, § 803.2 |
| System‑only Level 2 alterations | Alterations limited solely to mechanical, electrical, fire protection, haz‑mat abatement, windows, hardware, accessibility | Work‑area rules in Chapter 8 not applicable (system installations handled separately) | See § 801.3 (system-installation limitation) |
Exceptions & special cases
- The CEBC requires the code official’s approval before accepting sprinkler‑based reductions in fire‑resistance requirements; installation alone does not automatically remove upgrade obligations — § 802.6.
- The scope of Chapter 8 fire‑protection provisions is limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are performed; some requirements may apply beyond the work area where specifically stated (see § 803.1).
- If Level 2 work is limited solely to system installations (e.g., mechanical, electrical, fire protection), the work‑area requirements in Chapter 8 do not apply — see § 801.3 for the listed system installation exceptions.
Common mistakes
- Measuring to the wrong reference: designers sometimes measure guard triggers to parapet tops or handrails instead of the walking surface — the CEBC threshold is 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below in the work area (see § 802.5.1) .
- Assuming adding sprinklers automatically removes all fire‑resistance upgrades: the code requires submission of evaluation reports and code official approval before applying current CBC fire‑resistance ratings — § 802.6.
- Treating system installations as invisible to Chapter 8: if the scope includes work beyond pure system installation (e.g., reconfiguring tenant areas), Chapter 8 rules (guards, fire resistance) can apply; the narrow exception only applies when Level 2 work is limited solely to the listed system items — § 801.3.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: An owner performs a Level 2 tenant improvement that reconfigures a 1,200 sq ft work area on the 2nd floor. The reconfiguration creates a new interior loading dock opening that leaves a 36‑inch drop to the floor below. The owner also proposes to install an automatic sprinkler system throughout the building per CBC 903.3.1.1.
Step 1 — Guards: The new 36‑inch (greater than 30 in (762 mm)) drop in the work area requires a guard. Provide a guard installed to CBC design rules as required by § 802.5.1/802.5.2.
Step 2 — Sprinklers and fire‑resistance ratings: Because the owner proposes a building‑wide, approved automatic sprinkler system, they may submit plans and evaluation reports requesting that current CBC fire‑resistance ratings be applied to specified building elements. The code official must review and approve this application per § 802.6; approval is not automatic. Documentation showing which elements are to be considered and any special conditions must be submitted.
Step 3 — Fire protection systems: Install automatic sprinklers and any required alarms following CBC Section 903 and referenced Fire Code rules as invoked by § 803.2 and § 803.4. If corridor rating reductions are sought, ensure the sprinkler coverage criteria for stair landings are met as noted in § 803.1.1.
Related provisions
- § 802.5 — Guards (minimum requirement and design)
- § 802.6 — Fire‑resistance ratings when building is sprinklered throughout; documentation requirement for code official review
- § 803.1 — Scope of Chapter 8 fire protection for Level 2 work areas (applies within and sometimes beyond work area)
- § 803.1.1 — Corridor rating reductions when building‑wide sprinkler coverage meets stair landing criteria
- § 803.2 — Automatic sprinkler systems: must follow CBC Section 903 and CFC references
- § 801.3 — System installations exception: Level 2 work limited solely to systems (mechanical, electrical, fire protection, etc.) need not follow some work‑area rules in Chapter 8
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 802.3 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Where stairway enclosure is not required by the California Building Code or the California Fire Code .
802.3 Smoke compartments. In Group I-2 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 less than two compartments by smoke barrier walls in accordance with Section 407.5 of the California Building Code as required for new construction.
802.4 Interior finish. The interior finish and trim of walls and ceilings in exits and corridors in any work area shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code .
Exception: Existing materials that do not comply with the requirements of the California Building Code shall be permitted to be treated with an approved fire-retardant coating in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve the required classification. Compliance with this section shall be demonstrated by testing the fire-retardant coating on the same material and achieving the required performance. Where the same material is not available, testing on a similar material shall be permitted.
802.4.1 Supplemental interior finish requirements. Where the work area on any floor exceeds 50 percent of the floor area, Section 802.4 shall apply to the interior finish and trim in exits and corridors serving the work area throughout the floor.
Exception: Interior finish within tenant spaces that are entirely outside the work area.
802.5 Guards. The requirements of Sections 802.5.1 and 802.5.2 shall apply in all work areas.
8-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 2
802.5.1 Minimum requirement. Every portion of a floor, such as a balcony or a loading dock, that is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and is not provided with guards, or those in which the existing guards are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall be provided with guards.
802.5.2 Design. Where there are no guards or where existing guards must be replaced, the guards shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Building Code .
802.6 Fire-resistance ratings. Where approved by the code official, buildings where an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 of the California Building Code has been added, and the building is now sprinklered throughout, the required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and materials shall be permitted to meet the requirements of the current building code. The building is required to meet the other applicable requirements of the California Building Code .
Plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted indicating which building elements and materials the applicant is requesting the code official to review and approve for determination of applying the current building code fire-resistance ratings. Any special construction features, including fire-resistance-rated assemblies and smoke-resistive assemblies, conditions of occupancy, means-of-egress conditions, fire code deficiencies, approved modifications or approved alternative materials, design and methods of construction, and equipment applying to the building that impact required fire-resistance ratings shall be identified in the evaluation reports submitted.
SECTION 803—FIRE PROTECTION
803.1 Scope. The requirements of this section shall be limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are being performed, and where specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which the work areas are located or otherwise beyond the work area.
CEBC § 802.5.2 High relevance — show source text
802.5.2 Design. Where there are no guards or where existing guards must be replaced, the guards shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Building Code .
802.6 Fire-resistance ratings. Where approved by the code official, buildings where an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2 of the California Building Code has been added, and the building is now sprinklered throughout, the required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and materials shall be permitted to meet the requirements of the current building code. The building is required to meet the other applicable requirements of the California Building Code .
Plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data shall be submitted indicating which building elements and materials the applicant is requesting the code official to review and approve for determination of applying the current building code fire-resistance ratings. Any special construction features, including fire-resistance-rated assemblies and smoke-resistive assemblies, conditions of occupancy, means-of-egress conditions, fire code deficiencies, approved modifications or approved alternative materials, design and methods of construction, and equipment applying to the building that impact required fire-resistance ratings shall be identified in the evaluation reports submitted.
SECTION 803—FIRE PROTECTION
803.1 Scope. The requirements of this section shall be limited to work areas in which Level 2 alterations are being performed, and where specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which the work areas are located or otherwise beyond the work area.
803.1.1 Corridor ratings. Where an approved automatic sprinkler system is installed throughout the story, the required fire-resistance rating for any corridor located on the story shall be permitted to be reduced in accordance with the California Building Code . In order to be considered for a corridor rating reduction, such system shall provide coverage for the stairway landings serving the floor and the intermediate landings immediately below.
803.2 Automatic sprinkler systems. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 903 of the California Building and California Fire Codes.
803.3 Reserved.
803.4 Fire alarm and detection. An approved fire alarm system shall be installed in accordance with California Fire Code Sections 907 and 1103.7.
803.4.1 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code. Site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Building and California Fire Codes.
SECTION 804—MEANS OF EGRESS
804.1 Scope. The requirements of this section shall be limited to work areas that include exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant within the work area in which Level 2 alterations are being performed, and where specified they shall apply throughout the floor on which the work areas are located or otherwise beyond the work area.
804.2 General. The means of egress shall comply with the requirements of this section.
Exceptions:
- Where the work area and the means of egress serving it complies with NFPA 101.
- Means of egress complying with the requirements of the building code under which the building was constructed shall be considered to be compliant means of egress if, in the opinion of the code official, they do not constitute a distinct hazard to life.
804.3 Reserved.
California Existing Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
see Notes 12, 16, 19;
facings: exposed side only; see Note 18.|N/A|1 hr||1||3, 5,
24|1| |W-6-M-28|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 12, 17, 19;
facings: fire side only; see Note 18.|N/A|1 hr||1||3, 5,
24|1| |W-6-M-29|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 13, 16, 22;
facings: unexposed side only; see Note 18.|N/A|1 hr||1||3, 5,
24|1| |W-6-M-30|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 13, 17, 22;
facings: unexposed side only; see Note 18.|N/A|1 hr
15 min||1||3, 5,
24|11/4| |W-6-M-31|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 13, 16, 22;
facings: fire side only; see Note 18.|N/A|1 hr
15 min||1||3, 5,
24|11/4| |W-6-M-32|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 13, 17, 22;
facings: fire side only; see Note 18.|N/A|1 hr
30 min||1||3, 5,
24|11/2| |W-6-M-33|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 15, 16, 19;
facings: unexposed side only; see Note 18.|N/A|2 hrs
30 min||1||3, 5,
24|21/2| |W-6-M-34|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 15, 17, 19;
facings: unexposed side only; see Note 18.|N/A|2 hrs
30 min||1||3, 5,
24|21/2| |W-6-M-35|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 15, 16, 19;
facings: fire side only; see Note 18.|N/A|2 hrs
30 min||1||3, 5,
24|21/2| |W-6-M-36|65/8″|Core: structural clay tile; see Notes 15, 17, 19;
facings: fire side only; see Note 18.|N/A|2 hrs
30 min||1||3, 5,
24|21/2| |W-7-M-37|7″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 12, 34, 36, 38,
41; see Note 35 for facings on both sides.|80 psi|5 hrs||1||5, 25|5| |W-7-M-38|7″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 12, 33, 36, 38,
41; see Note 35 for facings.|80 psi|5 hrs||1||5, 25|5|CEBC § 1.11. Medium 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 RESOURCE A-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
RESOURCE A-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
A GUIDELINES ON FIRE RATINGS OF ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND
ASSEMBLIES
User note:
About this resource: In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, this code might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code 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. This resource document provides a guideline for such an evaluation for fire-resistance rating of archaic materials that is not typically found in the modern model building codes.
INTRODUCTION
The International Existing Building Code ® (IEBC®) is a comprehensive code with the goal of addressing all aspects of work taking place in existing buildings and providing user-friendly methods and tools for regulation and improvement of such buildings. This resource document is included within the cover of the IEBC with that goal in mind and as a step towards accomplishing that goal.
In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, the IEBC might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code 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. This resource document provides a guideline for such an evaluation for fire-resistance ratings of archaic materials that are not typically found in the modern model building codes.
Resource A is only a guideline and is not intended to be a document for specific adoption as it is not written in the format or language of ICC’s International Codes and is not subject to the code development process.
PURPOSE
The Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies focuses upon the fire-related performance of archaic construction. “Archaic” encompasses construction typical of an earlier time, generally prior to 1950. “Fire-related performance” includes fire resistance, flame spread, smoke production and degree of combustibility.
The purpose of this guideline is to update the information which was available at the time of original construction, for use by architects, engineers and code officials when evaluating the fire safety of a rehabilitation project. In addition, information relevant to the evaluation of general classes of materials and types of construction is presented for those cases when documentation of the fire performance of a particular archaic material or assembly cannot be found.
CEBC § 907.2.24.2 Medium relevance — show source text
907.2.24.2 Production locations — solid-ceiling sets and platforms. Where required by Chapter 48 of the California Fire Code in buildings with existing fire protection systems and where production intends to construct solid-ceiling sets over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area, and platforms over 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) in area and which exceed 3 feet (914 mm) in height shall be protected by an approved heat detector system. Heat detectors shall be spaced 30 feet (9144 mm) on center or as required by the manufacturer's installation instructions. The fire alarm system shall be connected to an approved supervising station in accor- dance with Section 907.6.6 or a local alarm which will give an audible signal at a constantly attended location.
907.2.24.3 Fire alarm control units. Fire alarm control units shall be California State Fire Marshal listed and shall be utilized in accordance with their listing. Control units are permitted to be temporarily supported by sets, platforms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4 Heat detectors.
907.2.24.4.1 Heat detection required by this section shall be defined as a portable system as it is intended to be reinstalled when platforms or sets are changed.
907.2.24.4.2 Heat detectors shall be secured to standard outlet boxes and are allowed to be temporarily supported by sets, plat- forms or pedestals.
907.2.24.4.3 Heat detectors shall be provided for solid-ceiling sets and platforms where required by Sections 4805.3 and 4811.14.
907.2.25 Group C occupancies (organized camps).
907.2.25.1 General. Every building and structure used or intended for sleeping purposes shall be provided with an automatic smoke detection system.
Exceptions:
1. Buildings and structures in existence and in operation prior to January 1, 1985. 2. Tents, tent structures and buildings and structures that do not exceed 25 ft (7620 mm) in any lateral dimensions and where such building or structure is not more than one story.
907.2.25.2 Camp fire alarm. Every organized camp shall provide and maintain audible appliances, or devices suitable for sound- ing a fire alarm. Such audible appliances or devices may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agency provided they are distinctive in tone from all other signaling devices or systems and shall be audible throughout the camp premises. When an auto- matic fire alarm system is provided, as required by Section 450.6.6 of the California Building Code, all audible appliances required by this section shall be of the same type as that used in the automatic system.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 9-35
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FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
907.2.26 Fixed-guideway and passenger rail transit systems fire alarm and communication systems.
CBC § 1950 Medium relevance — show source text
The International Existing Building Code ® (IEBC®) is a comprehensive code with the goal of addressing all aspects of work taking place in existing buildings and providing user-friendly methods and tools for regulation and improvement of such buildings. This resource document is included within the cover of the IEBC with that goal in mind and as a step towards accomplishing that goal.
In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, the IEBC might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code 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. This resource document provides a guideline for such an evaluation for fire-resistance ratings of archaic materials that are not typically found in the modern model building codes.
Resource A is only a guideline and is not intended to be a document for specific adoption as it is not written in the format or language of ICC’s International Codes and is not subject to the code development process.
PURPOSE
The Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies focuses upon the fire-related performance of archaic construction. “Archaic” encompasses construction typical of an earlier time, generally prior to 1950. “Fire-related performance” includes fire resistance, flame spread, smoke production and degree of combustibility.
The purpose of this guideline is to update the information which was available at the time of original construction, for use by architects, engineers and code officials when evaluating the fire safety of a rehabilitation project. In addition, information relevant to the evaluation of general classes of materials and types of construction is presented for those cases when documentation of the fire performance of a particular archaic material or assembly cannot be found.
It has been assumed that the building materials and their fastening, joining and incorporation into the building structure are sound mechanically. Therefore, some determination must be made that the original manufacture, the original construction practice and the rigors of aging and use have not weakened the building. This assessment can often be difficult because process and quality control was not good in many industries, and variations among locally available raw materials and manufacturing techniques often resulted in a product which varied widely in its strength and durability. The properties of iron and steel, for example, varied widely, depending on the mill and the process used.
There is nothing inherently inferior about archaic materials or construction techniques. The pressures that promote fundamental change are most often economic or technological matters not necessarily related to concerns for safety. The high cost of labor made wood lath and plaster uneconomical. The high cost of land and the congestion of the cities provided the impetus for high-rise construction. Improved technology made it possible. The difficulty with archaic materials is not a question of suitability, but familiarity.
Code requirements for the fire performance of key building elements (e.g., walls, floor/ceiling assemblies, doors, shaft enclosures) are stated in performance terms: hours of fire resistance. It matters not whether these elements were built in 1908 or 1980, only that they provide the required degree of fire resistance. The level of performance will be defined by the local community, primarily through the enactment of a building or rehabilitation code. This guideline is only a tool to help evaluate the various building elements, regardless of what the level of performance is required to be.
CEBC § 801.2 Medium relevance — show source text
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.
802.2 Vertical openings. Existing vertical openings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 802.2.1, 802.2.2 and 802.2.3.
802.2.1 Existing vertical openings. Existing interior vertical openings connecting two or more floors shall be enclosed with approved assemblies having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour with approved opening protectives.
Exceptions:
- Where vertical opening enclosure is not required by the California Building Code or the California Fire Code .
- Interior vertical openings other than stairways may be blocked at the floor and ceiling of the work area by installation of not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of solid wood or equivalent construction.
- The enclosure shall not be required where: 3.1. Connecting the main floor and mezzanines; or 3.2. All of the following conditions are met: 3.2.1. The communicating area has a low-hazard occupancy or has a moderate-hazard occupancy that is protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system.
3.2.2. The lowest or next-to-the-lowest level is a street floor.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 8-3
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ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 2
California Existing Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
20|11/4| |W-8-M-78|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 18, 26, 31, 40;
no facings.|80 psi|3 hrs||1||1, 20|3| |W-8-M-79|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 19, 26, 36, 41;
no facings.|80 psi|1 hr
30 min||1||1, 20|11/2| |W-8-M-80|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 18, 26, 36, 41;
no facings.|80 psi|3 hrs||1||1, 20|3| |W-8-M-81|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 19, 26, 34, 41;
no facings.|80 psi|1 hr||1||1, 20|1| |W-8-M-82|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 18, 26, 34, 41;
no facings.|80 psi|2 hrs
30 min||1||1, 20|21/2| |W-8-M-83|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 19, 26, 29, 41;
no facings.|80 psi|45 min||1||1, 20|3/4| |W-8-M-84|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 18, 26, 29, 41;
no facings.|80 psi|2 hrs||1||1, 20|2| |W-8-M-85|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 3, 18, 26, 34, 41;
facings: 21/4″ brick.|80 psi|4 hrs||1||1, 20|4| |W-8-M-86|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 3, 18, 26, 34, 41;
facings: 33/4″ brick face.|80 psi|5 hrs||1||1, 20|5| |W-8-M-87|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 19, 26, 30, 43;
no facings.|80 psi|12 min||1||1, 20|1/5| |W-8-M-88|8″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 18, 26, 30, 43;
no facings.|80 psi|12 min||1||1, 20|1/5| |W-8-M-89|81/2″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 19, 26, 34, 40;
facings: fire side only; see Note 38.|80 psi|2 hrs||1||1, 20|2| |W-8-M-90|81/2″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2, 18, 26, 34, 40;
facings: side 1; see Note 38.|80 psi|5 hrs||1||1,CEBC § 8-1 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISHES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1
801 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
802 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
803 Wall and Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
804 Interior Floor Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6
805 Combustible Materials in Types I and II Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
806 Decorative Materials and Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
807 Insulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
808 Acoustical Ceiling Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
CHAPTER 9 FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE
SAFETY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-1
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
902 Fire Pump and Riser Room Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8
904 Alternative Automatic Fire-Extinguishing Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-17
905 Standpipe Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
906 Portable Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
908 Emergency Alarm Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
909 Smoke Control Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-43
910 Smoke and Heat Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-51
CEBC § 2203.8 Medium relevance — show source text
Training 2203.8 Combustible Fibers Chapter 37
Backflow Prevention 903.3.5, 912.6 Balconies 903.3.1.2.1, 1021, 4104.2 Assembly 1030.5 Guards 1015.2 Means of egress 1021, 1030.5 Travel distance 1017.2.1
Barricade Artificial defined (for explosives) 202 Explosives 202, 911.1, Table 911.1, 911.5, Table 5601.8.1(1), 5604.10.5, Table 5604.5.2(1), Table 5605.3, 5605.6, 5607.8 Fire apparatus access road 503.5, 503.5.1, 901.8.1 Natural (for explosives) 202 Placement at fire scene 104.11.1
Basement 202, 605.4.2.8, 903.2.11.1.3, 905.3.1, 2311.4.3, 3003.1, 5704.3.5.1, 5705.3.7.2, 5706.4.4.1, 5904.1.3, 6103.2.1.1, 6204.1.8, 6304.1.5, 6704.1.5 Emergency escape 1031 Means of egress 1006.2, 1006.3.4, 1019.1, 1023.2 Battery Charging (see Powered Industrial Trucks) Battery System, Stationary Lead-Acid
202 Battery System, Stationary Storage 1207 Dedicated-use buildings 1207.7.1 Defined 202
Explosion control 1207.6.3 Fire-resistance-rated
separations 1207.7.4 Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies 1207.11 Indoor installations 1207.7 Nondedicated-use buildings 1207.7.2 Outdoor installations 1207.8
Permit 105.5.14, 105.6.6 Signage 1207.4.8 Special installations 1207.9 Spill control and neutralization 1207.6.2
Ventilation 1207.6.1
Battery Types Flow 202
Lead acid 202 Lithium metal polymer 202 Lithium-ion 202
Nickel cadmium 202
Stationary storage 202 Bin Box 3208.1
Defined 202 Biofuel, Solid (see Solid Biofuel) Biomass Feedstock, Solid (see Solid Biomass Feedstock) Bleachers 202 Means of egress 1030.1.1, 1030.17 Occupant load 1004.4 Separation 903.2.1.5.1, 1030.1.1.1 Board of Appeals Appendix A Boarding House (Occupancy Group R) 203
Bond For explosives 5601.2.4.1 For fireworks display 5601.2.4.2 Bonding and Grounding 2104.2.4, 2106.3.4 Aircraft fueling 2006.3.7.1, 2006.5.2
CEBC § 7-3 Medium relevance — show source text
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
803 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
804 Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
805 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
806 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
807 Mechanical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
808 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
809 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10
CHAPTER 9 ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3
901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Frequently asked questions
When exactly do I have to put a guard around a balcony or loading dock?
If any portion of a floor (balcony, dock, etc.) is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below in the work area, a guard must be provided; replacement is required if existing guards are unsafe — § 802.5.1 and § 802.5.2.
If I add sprinklers throughout my building, can I skip other fire‑resistance upgrades?
Not automatically. An approved, building‑wide sprinkler system can allow applying current CBC fire‑resistance ratings, but the code official must approve that change after you submit the required plans and evaluation reports — § 802.6.
Do sprinkler or alarm installations fall under Chapter 8 requirements for Level 2 work?
Chapter 8 fire protection rules are limited to Level 2 work areas (§ 803.1). Automatic sprinklers and alarms must be installed per CBC/CFC requirements referenced in § 803.2 and § 803.4.
If my Level 2 work is only replacing HVAC or electrical, do these guard/fire rules apply?
If the Level 2 alterations are limited solely to mechanical, electrical, fire protection systems or the other listed items (windows, hardware, accessibility), Chapter 8 work‑area rules are not applicable per § 801.3. Confirm the scope with the code official.
What documentation do I need if I want fire‑resistance relief because I sprinklered the building?
You must submit plans, investigation and evaluation reports, and other data identifying the building elements proposed to meet current CBC ratings, including special construction features and any assemblies that affect required ratings — § 802.6.
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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