CEBC · California Existing Building Code
Prescriptive Compliance (Chapter 5 / 5A)
Chapter 5 (and 5A for OSHPD) is the CEBC's prescriptive, rules‑based compliance path for alterations, additions and changes of occupancy, with specific triggers for structural and life‑safety upgrades.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
Chapter 5 of the California Existing Building Code (CEBC) provides the prescriptive compliance path for alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings — a rules-based, chapter-by-chapter route that identifies the specific upgrades and exceptions that apply instead of full new‑construction requirements. The chapter structure (§501–§507) covers General, Additions, Alterations, Fire Escapes, Windows/Escape Openings, Change of Occupancy and Historic Buildings; Chapter 5A is the OSHPD‑tailored counterpart for state‑regulated health care and similar facilities. See §501.1 for scope and the Chapter 5/5A table of contents and §501A.1 for the OSHPD‑specific scope and prescriptive provisions in Chapter 5A .
The prescriptive route matters because it gives a predictable set of triggers and thresholds for required upgrades (for example, gravity‑ and lateral‑load triggers in the Alterations provisions) and ties into other CEBC compliance options. Key procedural and technical triggers appear in §503 (Alterations) and the parallel §503A provisions, which set thresholds such as the >5% gravity‑load increase rule and demand‑capacity comparisons for lateral elements, and §506/§506A for change‑of‑occupancy requirements . Chapter 5 is one of the three main compliance methods identified in Chapter 3 (see Section 301.3.1), so users should confirm whether the prescriptive method, the Work Area Method, or the Performance Method is the appropriate path for their project .
Prescriptive (Chapter 5) and OSHPD prescriptive (Chapter 5A) are intentionally directive: they reference the California Building Code for new‑construction requirements where upgrades are triggered, and they include tailored provisions and exceptions for special occupancies (including historic building guidance and OSHPD applicability). Review the listed sections in the chapter table of contents and the specific §§ cited above before selecting this method .
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
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 § 1.11. 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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5 A PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing buildings 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 Section 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1)].
SECTION 501 A —GENERAL
501 A .1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing buildings and structures. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing structures for applications listed in Section 1.10.1 [OSHPD 1] regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
501 A .1.1 Compliance with other methods. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this chapter or with one of the methods or procedures provided in Section 301 A .3.
501 A .2 Fire-resistance ratings. Fire-resistance ratings shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
501A.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to the following categories of existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this section.
501A.3.1 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980). Nonconforming buildings shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980), as used in this chapter, consists of the Uniform Building Code, 1979 (UBC 1979) along with requirements contained in: a) California Code of Regulations, Title 24- Building Standards, dated February 2, 1980 (Revision record for Register 80, No. 5). b) California Code of Regulations, Title 22 – Social Security, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41). c) California Code of Regulations, Title 17 – Public Health, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41-B). 2. All existing structural elements of Seismic Force Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements in the CBC 1980 or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent to that given in the CBC 1980, as determined by the building official. 3. A continuous load path or paths with adequate strength and stiffness to transfer all the forces from the point of origin to final point of resistance shall be justified by analysis. _4.
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 § 4A-5 High relevance — show source text
408A Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4A-5
CHAPTER 5 PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD . . . . . 5-3
501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
502 Additions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
503 Alterations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
504 Fire Escapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
505 Windows and Emergency Escape Openings . . . . . . . 5-8
506 Change of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
507 Historic Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10
CHAPTER 5A [OSHPD 1] PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE
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
CEBC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text
Exception: In-filling of floor openings and nonoccupiable appendages such as elevator and exit stairway shafts shall be permitted beyond that permitted by the California Building Code.
502 A .1.1 Risk category assignment. Where the addition and the existing building have different occupancies, the risk category of each existing and added occupancy shall be determined in accordance with Section 1604 A .5.1 of the California Building Code . Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the existing building compared with the risk category for the existing building before the addition, such a change shall be considered a change of occupancy and shall comply with Section 506 A of this code. Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the addition compared with the risk category for the addition by itself, the addition and any systems in the existing building required to serve the addition shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction for the higher risk category.
502 A .1.2 Creation or extension of nonconformity. An addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity in the existing building to which the addition is being made with regard to accessibility, structural strength, supports and attachments for nonstructural components, fire safety, means of egress or the capacity of mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems.
Exception: Nonconforming supports and attachments for nonstructural components that serve the addition from within the existing building need not be altered to comply with California Building Code Section 1613 A unless the components are part of the addition’s life-safety system or are required to serve an addition assigned to Risk Category IV.
502 A .2 Flood hazard areas. For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas established in California Building Code, Section 1612 A .3, any addition that constitutes substantial improvement of the existing structure , as defined in Chapter 2, shall comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, and all aspects of the existing structure shall be brought into compliance with
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the requirements for new construction for flood design. For new foundations, foundations raised or extended upward, and replacement foundations, the foundations shall be in compliance with the requirements for new construction for flood design.
For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas established in California Building Code, Section 1612 A .3, any additions that do not constitute substantial improvement of the existing structure , as defined in Chapter 2, are not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply:
- The addition shall not create or extend a nonconformity of the existing building or structure with the flood-resistant construction requirements.
- The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or structure or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 A of the California Building Code .
502 A .3 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures.
CEBC § 1011.11 Medium relevance — show source text
2. Drift limits based on original design code shall be permitted to be used in lieu of the drift limits required by ASCE 7.
SECTION 503 A —ALTERATIONS
503 A .1 General. Alterations to any building or structure shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction. Alterations shall be such that the existing building or structure is not less complying with the provisions of the Califor- nia Building Code than the existing building or structure was prior to the alteration.
Exceptions:
- An existing stairway shall not be required to comply with the requirements of Section 1011 of the California Building Code where the existing space and construction does not allow a reduction in pitch or slope.
- Handrails otherwise required to comply with Section 1011.11 of the California Building Code shall not be required to comply with the requirements of Section 1014.7 of the California Building Code regarding full extension of the handrails where such extensions would be hazardous because of plan configuration.
503 A .2 Flood hazard areas. For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas established in Section 1612 A .3 of the California Build- ing Code, any alteration that constitutes substantial improvement of the existing structure , as defined in Chapter 2, shall comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, and all aspects of the existing structure shall be brought into compliance with the requirements for new construction for flood design.
For buildings and structures in flood hazard areas established in Section 1612 A .3 of the California Building Code any alterations that do not constitute substantial improvement of the existing structure , as defined in Chapter 2, are not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction.
503 A .3 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an alteration causes an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity loadcarrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the alteration shall be shown to have the capacity to resist the applicable design dead, live and snow loads including snow drift effects required by the California Building Code for new structures.
503 A .4 Existing structural elements carrying lateral load. Except as permitted by Section 503 A .13, where the alteration increases design lateral loads, results in a prohibited structural irregularity as defined in the California Building Code, ASCE 7, or decreases the
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capacity of any existing lateral load-carrying structural element, the lateral force-resisting system of the altered building or structure shall meet the requirements of Section s 1609 A and 1613A of the California Building Code .
Exceptions: For incidental and minor alterations:
- Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the alteration considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the alteration ignored shall be permitted to remain unaltered.
CEBC § 1.11. Medium 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 Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section 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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APPENDIX C—GUIDELINES FOR THE WIND RETROFIT OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
CHAPTER C2 ROOF DECK FASTENING FOR HIGH-WIND AREAS
SECTION C201—GENERAL
[BS] C201.1 Purpose. This chapter provides prescriptive methods for partial structural retrofit of an existing building to increase its resistance to wind loads. It is intended for voluntary use where the basic wind speed, V, is greater than 130 mph (58 m/s) in accordance with Figure 1609.3(2) of the California Building Code and for reference by mitigation programs. The provisions of this chapter do not necessarily satisfy requirements for new construction. Unless specifically cited, the provisions of this chapter do not necessarily satisfy requirements for structural improvements triggered by addition, alteration, repair, change of occupancy, building relocation or other circumstances.
[BS] C201.2 Eligible conditions. The provisions of this chapter are applicable only to buildings that meet either of the following eligibility requirements:
- Buildings assigned to Risk Category I or II in accordance with Table 1604.5 of the California Building Code .
- Buildings within the scope of the California Residential Code .
SECTION C202—ROOF DECK ATTACHMENT FOR WOOD ROOFS
CEBC § 1617A.1.10. Medium relevance — show source text
The most critical load effect may_ be deemed to be satisfied if members and their foundations are evaluated for 100 percent of the forces for one direction plus 30 percent of the forces for the perpendicular direction, whereby the combination produces the maximum effect. Exceptions: The following buildings (with structural irregularities or unusual configuration/system) shall not be eligible for the SPC-4D upgrade using the prescriptive provisions in this section: 1. Buildings with prohibited irregularities in accordance with California Building Code 2022 Section 1617A.1.10.
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2. Buildings taller than 5 stories or 65' height above the base having horizontal or vertical irregularities in accordance with ASCE 7-10 Tables 12.3-1 Items #1a, 1b and 3 or 12.3-2 Items #1a, 1b, 5a and 5b.
3. Buildings with unusual configuration or structural system, as determined by the building official.
501A.3.2 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the new building design requirements of this code. Structures satisfying the requirements of the California Building Code for new general acute care hospital buildings design shall be deemed to satisfy the SPC-4D requirements of Table 2.5.3, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code.
All existing structural elements of a Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements of the California Building Code for new construction or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent, as determined by the building official. A demonstration of equivalence shall consider the regularity, overstrength, redundancy and ductility of the structure.
Elements not part of the Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS), including those identified in the California Administrative Code Chapter 6, Article 10, shall be evaluated using seismic forces and the requirements of this code for new general acute care hospital buildings.
501A.3.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions for NPC 2, NPC 3, NPC 4 or NPC 4D and NPC 5.
501A.3.3.1 Supports and attachments of nonstructural components, except those listed in Section 501A.3.3.2 below, in buildings in seismic performance categories SPC 1 or SPC 2 with a performance level of NPC 3 or higher, and SPC 3, SPC 4 or SPC-4D, shall be permitted to comply with the provisions of Section 1630B of the 1998 California Building Code using an importance factor I p =1.5. The capacity of welds, anchors and fasteners shall be determined in accordance with requirements of the California Building Code for new construction.
501A.3.3.2 Supports and attachments for systems listed under NPC-2 and NPC-5 (excluding those specifically listed for NPC-3 and NPC-4 or NPC-4D) in the California Administrative Code, Chapter 6, Table 11.1 shall satisfy the requirements of the California Build- ing Code for new construction and Section 501A.3.3.1 above shall not be applicable.
CEBC § 503.3 Medium relevance — show source text
[BS] 503.3 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an alteration causes an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the alteration shall be shown to have the capacity to resist the applicable design dead, live and snow loads including snow drift effects required by the California Building Code for new structures.
Exceptions:
- Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the altered building complies with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the California Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
- Buildings in which the increased dead load is due entirely to the addition of a second layer of roof covering weighing 3 pounds per square foot (0.1437 kN/m [2] ) or less over an existing single layer of roof covering. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Excep- tion 2 is not permitted.
[BS] 503.4 Existing structural elements carrying lateral load. Except as permitted by Section 503.13, where the alteration increases design lateral loads, results in a prohibited structural irregularity as defined in ASCE 7, or decreases the capacity of any existing lateral load-carrying structural element, the lateral force-resisting system of the altered building or structure shall meet the requirements of Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.2 of this code.
Exceptions:
- Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the alteration considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the alteration ignored shall be permitted to remain
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unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 or 304.3.2 of this code. The same methodology shall be used for the altered and unaltered structures. For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction. When calculating demandcapacity ratios for wind, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code or the code wind forces in effect at the time. When calculating demand-capacity ratios for earthquake, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 304.3.1 or Section 304.3.2, Item 1 or 3, or the full or reduced seismic forces in effect at the time.
CEBC § 4.3 Medium relevance — show source text
For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii. List the required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning effort.
iv. Include the confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance staff training.
4.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning plan, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Plan has been completed.
Reference: 5 Functional performance testing
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.4, Functional performance testing.
5.1 Intent:
Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the Owner’s Project Requirements, Basis of Design, and plans and specifications.
The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the Basis of Design (Section 5.410.2.2 of the code):
Renewable energy systems
Landscape irrigation systems
Water reuse systems
5.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.
Elements of acceptable test procedures include:
Date and party—Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.
Signature block—Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.
Prerequisites—Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.
Precautions—Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.
Instrumentation—Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.
Reference—In each procedure item, identify the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).
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Test instructions—Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should performed.
Acceptance criteria—Measurable pass / fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.
Results—Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.
Return to normal—Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.
Deficiencies—A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.
5.3 Enforcement:
CEBC § 501A.3 Medium relevance — show source text
501 A .2 Fire-resistance ratings. Fire-resistance ratings shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
501A.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to the following categories of existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this section.
501A.3.1 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980). Nonconforming buildings shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980), as used in this chapter, consists of the Uniform Building Code, 1979 (UBC 1979) along with requirements contained in: a) California Code of Regulations, Title 24- Building Standards, dated February 2, 1980 (Revision record for Register 80, No. 5). b) California Code of Regulations, Title 22 – Social Security, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41). c) California Code of Regulations, Title 17 – Public Health, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41-B). 2. All existing structural elements of Seismic Force Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements in the CBC 1980 or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent to that given in the CBC 1980, as determined by the building official. 3. A continuous load path or paths with adequate strength and stiffness to transfer all the forces from the point of origin to final point of resistance shall be justified by analysis. 4. Site data report in accordance with the CBC 1980 shall establish that seismically induced differential settlement does not exceed 1 ″ in 40 ′ .
5. Adjacent buildings shall satisfy the SPC building separation requirements in accordance with the California Administrative Code, Chapter 6 Section 3.4. 6. The addition of new structural elements or strengthening of existing structural elements for retrofit of nonconforming build- ings to SPC-4D shall comply with the following: a) The seismic demand (forces or displacements) shall be in accordance with the CBC 1980; b) Capacity, detailing and connections for new structural elements shall satisfy the requirements in the CBC 2025 for new construction; and c) The strengthening of existing structural elements shall use capacities determined in accordance with the CBC 2025 for new construction consistent with the detailing and connections used in the strengthened member. 7. All construction, quality assurance and quality control shall be in accordance with the new construction provisions of CBC 2025.
8. Elements not part of the Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS), including those identified in the California Administrative Code Chapter 6, Article 10, shall be evaluated using seismic forces and the requirements of the CBC 1980. 9. Any column or wall that forms part of two or more intersecting SFRS and is subjected to axial load due to seismic forces acting along either principal plan axis equaling or exceeding 20 percent of the axial design strength of the column or wall shall be _evaluated for the most critical load effect due to application of seismic force in any direction.
CEBC § 3.4. Medium relevance — show source text
_ 4. Site data report in accordance with the CBC 1980 shall establish that seismically induced differential settlement does not exceed 1 ″ in 40 ′ .
5. Adjacent buildings shall satisfy the SPC building separation requirements in accordance with the California Administrative Code, Chapter 6 Section 3.4. 6. The addition of new structural elements or strengthening of existing structural elements for retrofit of nonconforming build- ings to SPC-4D shall comply with the following: a) The seismic demand (forces or displacements) shall be in accordance with the CBC 1980; b) Capacity, detailing and connections for new structural elements shall satisfy the requirements in the CBC 2025 for new construction; and c) The strengthening of existing structural elements shall use capacities determined in accordance with the CBC 2025 for new construction consistent with the detailing and connections used in the strengthened member. 7. All construction, quality assurance and quality control shall be in accordance with the new construction provisions of CBC 2025.
8. Elements not part of the Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS), including those identified in the California Administrative Code Chapter 6, Article 10, shall be evaluated using seismic forces and the requirements of the CBC 1980. 9. Any column or wall that forms part of two or more intersecting SFRS and is subjected to axial load due to seismic forces acting along either principal plan axis equaling or exceeding 20 percent of the axial design strength of the column or wall shall be evaluated for the most critical load effect due to application of seismic force in any direction. The most critical load effect may be deemed to be satisfied if members and their foundations are evaluated for 100 percent of the forces for one direction plus 30 percent of the forces for the perpendicular direction, whereby the combination produces the maximum effect. Exceptions: The following buildings (with structural irregularities or unusual configuration/system) shall not be eligible for the SPC-4D upgrade using the prescriptive provisions in this section: 1. Buildings with prohibited irregularities in accordance with California Building Code 2022 Section 1617A.1.10.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 5A-3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD
2. Buildings taller than 5 stories or 65' height above the base having horizontal or vertical irregularities in accordance with ASCE 7-10 Tables 12.3-1 Items #1a, 1b and 3 or 12.3-2 Items #1a, 1b, 5a and 5b.
3. Buildings with unusual configuration or structural system, as determined by the building official.
501A.3.2 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the new building design requirements of this code. Structures satisfying the requirements of the California Building Code for new general acute care hospital buildings design shall be deemed to satisfy the SPC-4D requirements of Table 2.5.3, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code.
Frequently asked questions
Who must use Chapter 5A instead of Chapter 5?
Chapter 5A applies to existing buildings and structures regulated by OSHPD (Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development) such as hospitals and certain treatment centers; see the Chapter 5A scope at §501A.1 and the introductory notes to Chapter 5A .
What structural triggers should I watch for in the prescriptive path?
Key triggers include gravity‑load increases greater than 5% (requiring replacement or alteration of affected gravity elements) and increases to lateral demands or prohibited irregularities that can require upgrades to meet CBC lateral provisions; these are described in §503A.3 (gravity) and §503A.4/§503A.13 (lateral and voluntary alterations) with specified exceptions and demand‑capacity rules .
How does the prescriptive method relate to the other CEBC compliance methods?
Prescriptive compliance (Chapter 5/5A) is one of three CEBC approaches. Chapter 3 explains the relationship: work may instead follow the Work Area Method (Chapters 6–11) or the Performance Method (Chapter 13) where those methods are applicable or chosen; see Section 301.3.1 for prescriptive compliance and its role among the options .
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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