CEBC · California Existing Building Code
What egress protections apply during demolition or removal of building elements?
During demolition you must keep required exit routes usable (or install approved temporary exits first). If work is more than 40 feet above fire‑department vehicle access, provide a temporary or permanent stair and extend it as work progresses; maintain standpipes and fire extinguishers where required.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Existing Building Code requires that means of egress be preserved or replaced during construction, demolition, remodeling or alteration so that occupants and emergency responders have safe routes to exit. The operative language is in § 1508.2 (maintenance of means of egress) and the temporary stair requirement for taller work is in § 1508.1. I was not able to locate the full text of § 1501.6 in the uploaded CEBC files; it appears in the chapter index but its text was not returned in the provided documents.
Keep required exits open and usable during demolition — or provide approved temporary exits before you remove them.
Requirements in detail
Key plain-language rules (first mentions bolded)
- § 1508.2 — Means of egress and required accessible means of egress must be maintained at all times during construction, demolition, remodeling or alterations. An exception allows removal of existing egress only when approved temporary means of egress and accessible systems are provided.
- § 1508.1 — If construction (or demolition work) will exceed 40 feet above the lowest level of fire-department vehicle access, provide a temporary or permanent stairway and extend it as construction/demolition progresses (to within one floor of the highest secured decking/flooring).
- Related operational safeguards (noted elsewhere in Chapter 15): maintain fire extinguishers at stairways and where combustible materials accumulate, and avoid storing materials that obstruct egress paths or fire service access.
Decision table — when you must act and how
| Decision factor | Value / threshold | Required action | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work height above lowest FD vehicle access | > 40 ft | Provide a temporary or permanent stairway; extend it as work progresses to within one floor of highest secured deck | § 1508.1 |
| Occupied building undergoing demolition/alteration | Any | Maintain required means of egress and required accessible egress at all times, unless approved temporary means are provided | § 1508.2 |
| Removing an existing exit or fire-protection element | N/A | Do not remove unless you first provide adequate substitute (approved temporary egress or devices) | § 1501.4 (maintenance of exits; exceptions) |
| Standpipes present in a building being demolished | N/A | Maintain existing standpipe in operable condition; do not demolish it more than one floor below the floor being demolished | § 1509.2 |
| Accumulation of combustible materials at stairways | N/A | Provide at least one approved portable fire extinguisher at each stairway on affected floors | § 1507.1 |
Practical notes on the rule language
- “Maintain” means keep the exit usable for occupant and emergency egress (clear, continuous path, doors functioning) or install an approved alternative before you remove the existing route. § 1508.2 contains the core maintenance requirement and the exception for approved temporary systems.
- The 40-foot threshold in § 1508.1 is measured from the lowest level of fire-department vehicle access to the point of construction/demolition. If the threshold is crossed, a stair must be provided and extended as work advances.
Exceptions & special cases
- Exception in § 1508.2: where existing means of egress need not be maintained only if approved temporary means of egress and accessible means of egress systems and facilities are provided — in other words, you may remove a permanent exit only after an acceptable temporary solution is in place.
- If the building is vacant and not occupied, Chapter 15 indicates some maintenance obligations change (see § 1501.4 exceptions: maintenance not required where the existing building is not occupied). However, the CEBC text for § 1501.6 (the demolition references called out by your request) was not available in the provided files, so I cannot quote any demolition‑specific exceptions that might be in that section.
- Demolition-specific firefighting systems: where a standpipe exists it must be kept operable for fire department use while demolition is in progress and its demolition is limited to not more than one floor below the floor being demolished (§ 1509.2).
Common mistakes
- Removing an exit before installing a temporary alternative. The code requires maintaining means of egress or providing an approved substitute (see § 1508.2).
- Assuming temporary scaffolding or debris chutes count as a means of egress — temporary systems must be “approved” and provide equivalent safety and accessibility; don’t rely on informal paths. The code’s exception requires approved temporary means.
- Forgetting the 40‑ft stair trigger: smaller projects can still create unsafe conditions, but any work above 40 feet requires a stair per § 1508.1.
- Blocking fire department access, hydrants or standpipe connections with stored materials — Chapter 15 prohibits placing materials so as to obstruct fire service equipment and access.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: You are demolishing floor finishes and nonbearing partitions on the top floor of an occupied three‑story commercial building. The building’s lowest fire‑department vehicle access is at grade; the work area is at an elevation that is 48 feet above that access.
Application:
- Because the work area is 48 feet (> 40 feet) above the lowest FD vehicle access, you must provide a temporary or permanent stairway and extend it as work progresses so it reaches to within one floor of the highest secured decking, per § 1508.1. That stair must be usable for occupants and the fire service.
- You must maintain required means of egress from all occupied floors at all times. If the existing main stair will be taken out of service during demolition, you must first provide an approved temporary means of egress (for example, a code‑compliant temporary stair with required landing dimensions and handrails) before closing the permanent stair, per § 1508.2.
- Keep at least one approved portable fire extinguisher at each stairway on floors where combustible materials accumulate, per § 1507.1.
Related provisions
- § 1508.1 — Stairways required for work above 40 feet.
- § 1508.2 — Maintenance of means of egress (and exception for approved temporary means).
- § 1501.4 — Maintenance of exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards (exceptions when building not occupied or adequate substitute provided).
- § 1507.1 — Fire extinguisher requirements during construction/demolition.
- § 1509.2 — Standpipes in buildings being demolished (maintain operable condition; demolition limits).
Note on § 1501.6: your brief asked specifically for § 1501.6 (demolition references). The uploaded CEBC files show § 1501.6 in the chapter index, but the file excerpts provided did not include its full text, so I could not quote or ground any additional demolition‑specific language from that section. If you want, I can look up and cite the exact text of § 1501.6 if you upload that page or permit a web lookup.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1030.6.2. High relevance — show source text
Not less than one-half of the additional means of egress required by this section shall be directly to an exit, or through a lobby, that is not used to access the main exit, to an exit or to a 1-hour-rated corridor to an exit. In a building used for assembly purposes where there is not a well-defined main exit or where multiple main exits are provided, exits for each level shall be permitted to be distributed around the perimeter of the building, provided that the total width of egress is not less than 100 percent of the required width and not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or public way. Smoke-protected seating shall comply with Section 1030.6.2.
1030.3.1 Occupant loads between 100 and 300. Group A occupancies or assembly occupancies accessory to Group E occupancies that have an occupant load of 100 to 300 not less than one of the required means of egress shall exit through one of the following: 1. Directly to an exit 2. Egress through a lobby that is not used to access the other required exit
3. To a one-hour rated corridor to an exit
4. Continuous through a one-hour rated lobby to an exit.
Not less than one exit shall discharge on a street or an unoccupied space of not less than 20 feet (6096 mm) in capacity that adjoins a street or public way.
1030.4 Foyers and lobbies. In Group A-1 occupancies, where persons are admitted to the building at times when seats are not available, such persons shall be allowed to wait in a lobby or similar space, provided that such lobby or similar space shall not encroach on the minimum width or required capacity of the means of egress. Such foyer, if not directly connected to a public street by all the main entrances or exits, shall have a straight and unobstructed corridor or path of travel to every such main entrance or exit.
1030.5 Interior balcony and gallery means of egress. For balconies, galleries or press boxes having a seating capacity of 50 or more located in a building, room or space used for assembly purposes, not less than two means of egress shall be provided, with one from each side of every balcony, gallery or press box.
1030.6 Capacity of aisle for assembly. The required capacity of aisles shall be not less than that determined in accordance with Section 1030.6.1 where smoke-protected assembly seating is not provided, Section 1030.6.2 where smoke-protected assembly seating is provided and Section 1030.6.3 where open-air assembly seating is provided.
1030.6.1 Without smoke protection. The required capacity in inches (mm) of the aisles for assembly seating without smoke protection shall be not less than the occupant load served by the egress element in accordance with all of the following, as applicable:
- Not less than 0.3 inch (7.6 mm) of aisle capacity for each occupant served shall be provided on stepped aisles having riser heights 7 inches (178 mm) or less and tread depths 11 inches (279 mm) or greater, measured horizontally between tread nosings.
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
Entire Chapter|X||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopt only those sections
that are listed below||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section||||||||||||||||||||||||| |1501||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1505||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1506||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1508||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |1511||||X|X||||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
15-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 15 looks to the construction process. Parameters are provided for demolition and for protecting adjacent property during demolition and construction. Issues such as how to provide egress and adequate water supply while the building is growing, the timing of standpipe and sprinkler installation, and protection of pedestrians are addressed. Note that this chapter is consistent with Chapter 33 of the California Building Code and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code.
SECTION 1501—GENERAL
[BG] 1501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern safety during construction and the protection of adjacent public and private properties. Fire safety during construction shall also comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code.
[BG] 1501.2 Storage and placement of construction equipment and materials. Construction equipment and materials shall be stored and placed so as not to endanger the public, the workers or adjoining property for the duration of the construction project.
[BS] 1501.3 Roof loads. Structural roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof-covering system and the material and equipment loads that will be encountered during installation of the system.
[BG] 1501.4 Maintenance of exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards. Required exits, existing structural elements, fire protection devices and sanitary safeguards shall be maintained at all times during alterations, repairs or additions to any building or structure.
Exceptions:
- Where such required elements or devices are being altered or repaired, adequate substitute provisions shall be made.
- Maintenance of such elements and devices is not required where the existing building is not occupied.
[BG] 1501.5 Removal of waste materials. Waste materials shall be removed in a manner that prevents injury or damage to persons, adjoining properties and public rights-of-way.
SECTION 1502—OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
California Existing Building Code High relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.CEBC § 1506.2 High relevance — show source text
[BG] 1506.2 Obstructions. Construction materials and equipment shall not be placed or stored so as to obstruct access to fire hydrants, standpipes, fire or police alarm boxes, catch basins or manholes, nor shall such material or equipment be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of a street intersection, or placed so as to obstruct normal observations of traffic signals or to hinder the use of public transit loading platforms.
[BG] 1506.3 Utility fixtures. Building materials, fences, sheds or any obstruction of any kind shall not be placed so as to obstruct free approach to any fire hydrant, fire department connection, utility pole, manhole, fire alarm box or catch basin, or so as to interfere with the passage of water in the gutter. Protection against damage shall be provided to such utility fixtures during the progress of the work, but sight of them shall not be obstructed.
SECTION 1507—FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
[F] 1507.1 Where required. Structures under construction, alteration or demolition shall be provided with not fewer than one approved portable fire extinguisher in accordance with Section 906 of the California Fire Code and sized for not less than ordinary hazard as follows:
- At each stairway on all floor levels where combustible materials have accumulated.
- In every storage and construction shed.
- Additional portable fire extinguishers shall be provided where special hazards exist, such as the storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids.
[F] 1507.2 Fire hazards. The provisions of this code and of the California Fire Code shall be strictly observed to safeguard against all fire hazards attendant upon construction operations.
SECTION 1508—MEANS OF EGRESS
[BE] 1508.1 Stairways required. Where building construction exceeds 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access, a temporary or permanent stairway shall be provided. As construction progresses, such stairway shall be extended to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.
[F] 1508.2 Maintenance of means of egress. Means of egress and required accessible means of egress shall be maintained at all times during construction, demolition, remodeling or alterations and additions to any building.
Exception: Existing means of egress need not be maintained where approved temporary means of egress and accessible means of egress systems and facilities are provided.
SECTION 1509—STANDPIPES
[F] 1509.1 Where required. In buildings required to have standpipes by Section 905.3.1 of the California Building Code, not less than one standpipe shall be provided for use during construction. Such standpipes shall be installed prior to construction exceeding 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. Such standpipes shall be provided with fire department hose connections at locations adjacent to stairways, complying with Section 1508.1. As construction progresses, such standpipes shall be extended to within one floor of the highest point of construction having secured decking or flooring.
[F] 1509.2 Buildings being demolished. Where a building or portion of a building is being demolished and a standpipe is existing within such a building, such standpipe shall be maintained in an operable condition so as to be available for use by the fire department. Such standpipe shall be demolished with the building but shall not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.
CEBC § 1.1.2 High relevance — show source text
1.1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
1.1.3 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the State of California. [HCD 1 & 2] The provisions of this code shall apply to repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of every existing building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the State of California.
1.1.3.1 Nonstate-regulated buildings, structures and applications. Except as modified by local ordinance pursuant to Section 1.1.8, the following standards in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Parts 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11 shall apply to all occupancies and applications not regulated by a state agency.
1.1.3.2 State-regulated buildings, structures and applications. The model code, state amendments to the model code and/or state amendments where there are no relevant model code provisions shall apply to the following buildings, structures and applications regulated by state agencies as specified in Sections 1.2 through 1.14, except where modified by local ordinance pursuant to Section 1.1.8. When adopted by a state agency, the provisions of this code shall be enforced by the appropriate enforcing agency, but only to the extent of authority granted to such agency by the state legislature.
Note: See “How to Distinguish Between Model Code Language and California Amendments” in the front of the code. 1. State-owned buildings, including buildings constructed by the Trustees of the California State University, and to the extent permitted by California laws, buildings designed and constructed by the Regents of the University of California, and regulated by the Building Standards Commission. See Section 1.2 for additional scope provisions. 2. Section 1.3 is reserved for the Board of State Community Corrections. 3. Section 1.4 is reserved for the Department of Consumer Affairs. 4. Section 1.5 is reserved for the California Energy Commission. 5. Section 1.6 is reserved for the Department of Food and Agriculture. 6. Section 1.7 is reserved for the Department of Public Health. 7. Hotels, motels, lodging houses, apartments, dwellings, dormitories, condominiums, shelters for homeless persons, congregate residences, employee housing, factory-built housing and other types of dwellings containing sleeping _accommodations with or without common toilets or cooking facilities.
CEBC § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
Conflict 102.1, 102.4.1, 102.4.2, 104.2.4.1, 113.1, 302.2, 1302.1.2 Construction Documents 104.3, 105.3, 105.3.1, 105.4, 106, 113.4, 202, 601.2, A105.4, A205.3, A301.1, A406, A407.1 Construction Safeguards 101.5, Chapter 15 Accessibility 1511 Adjoining property 1505 Automatic sprinklers 1510 Fire extinguishers 1507 Means of egress 1508 Owner’s responsibilities 1502 Protection of pedestrians 1504 Sanitary 1503 Standpipes 1509 Water supply 1512 Corridor
Dead-end 801.4, 804.8, 1011.5.1, 1305.2.12, 1305.2.12.1, Table 1306.1 Doors 804.7.1, 1011.5.1 Exit access 801.4, 802.2.1, 802.4, 802.4.1, 901.2, 1011.8.2 Openings 804.7, 804.7.1, 804.7.2, 804.7.3, 804.7.3.1, 804.7.4, 1011.5.1,
1011.8.2
Projections 704.1.1 Rating 803.1.1, 1011.5.1, 1305.2.5, 1305.2.5.1, Table 1305.2.5, Table
1306.1
Dangerous Nonstructural 115.1, 116.1 Structural 104.4, 114.1, 117.1, 202,
302.1
Deferred Submittal 106.3.4, 106.6, 202 Definitions 202 Demolition 101.5, 104.3, 106.2.6, 108.5, 113.2, 115.5, 117, 1501.6, 1501.6.1, 1501.7, 1502.1, 1503.1, 1504.1, 1505.2 Department of Building Safety 104.2.4, 105.3, 109.3.8 Disproportionate Earthquake Damage 202, 405.2.2, 502.2
Egress (see Means of Egress) Electrical A102.1, 105.1, 105.1.1, 105.2, 108.3, 109.3.4, 202, 406, 801.3, 801.4, 806, 1007, 1101.2 Elevator 905.4, 1011.8.3, 1102.2, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, Table 1305.2.14, Table 1306.1 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings 202, 505, 506.4, 702.4, 702.5, 702.5.1, 702.6 Emergency Power 804.6.
California Existing Building Code High relevance — show source text
3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 57/8″ pitch
with7/8″ concrete cover;3/8″ main rein-
forcement bars at 41/2″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ concrete cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|195 psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-4-RC-7|4″|4″ (5025 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with3/4″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 2|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-8|4″|4″ thick (4905 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.CEBC § 13-4 High relevance — show source text
1304 Investigation and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1305 Scoring and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1306 Building Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
1307 Evaluation of Building Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
CHAPTER 14 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS . . . . . . 14-3
1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1402 Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
CHAPTER 15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1502 Owner’s Responsibility for Fire Protection . . . . . . . 15-3
1503 Sanitary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4
1504 Protection of Pedestrians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4
1505 Protection of Adjoining Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-5
1506 Temporary Use of Streets, Alleys and Public Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1507 Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1508 Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1509 Standpipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1510 Automatic Sprinkler System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1511 Accessibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7
1512 Water Supply for Fire Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7
CHAPTER 16 REFERENCED STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-3
APPENDIX A GUIDELINES FOR THE SEISMIC RETROFIT
CEBC § 1505.2 High relevance — show source text
[BS] 1505.2 Excavation retention systems. Where a retention system is used to provide support of an excavation for protection of adjacent structures, the system shall conform to the requirements in Section 1505.2.1 through 1505.2.3.
[BS] 1505.2.1 Excavation retention system design. Excavation retention systems shall be designed by a registered design professional to provide vertical and lateral support.
[BS] 1505.2.2 Excavation retention system monitoring. The retention system design shall include requirements for monitoring of the system and adjacent structures for horizontal and vertical movement.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS
[BS] 1505.2.3 Retention system removal. Elements of the system shall only be removed or decommissioned where adequate replacement support is provided by backfill or by the new structure. Removal or decommissioning shall be performed in such a manner that protects the adjacent property.
SECTION 1506—TEMPORARY USE OF STREETS, ALLEYS AND PUBLIC PROPERTY
[BG] 1506.1 Storage and handling of materials. The temporary use of streets or public property for the storage or handling of materials or equipment required for construction or demolition, and the protection provided to the public shall comply with the provisions of the applicable governing authority and this chapter.
[BG] 1506.2 Obstructions. Construction materials and equipment shall not be placed or stored so as to obstruct access to fire hydrants, standpipes, fire or police alarm boxes, catch basins or manholes, nor shall such material or equipment be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of a street intersection, or placed so as to obstruct normal observations of traffic signals or to hinder the use of public transit loading platforms.
[BG] 1506.3 Utility fixtures. Building materials, fences, sheds or any obstruction of any kind shall not be placed so as to obstruct free approach to any fire hydrant, fire department connection, utility pole, manhole, fire alarm box or catch basin, or so as to interfere with the passage of water in the gutter. Protection against damage shall be provided to such utility fixtures during the progress of the work, but sight of them shall not be obstructed.
SECTION 1507—FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
[F] 1507.1 Where required. Structures under construction, alteration or demolition shall be provided with not fewer than one approved portable fire extinguisher in accordance with Section 906 of the California Fire Code and sized for not less than ordinary hazard as follows:
- At each stairway on all floor levels where combustible materials have accumulated.
- In every storage and construction shed.
- Additional portable fire extinguishers shall be provided where special hazards exist, such as the storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids.
[F] 1507.2 Fire hazards. The provisions of this code and of the California Fire Code shall be strictly observed to safeguard against all fire hazards attendant upon construction operations.
SECTION 1508—MEANS OF EGRESS
CEBC § 101.1 High relevance — show source text
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION 101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
[A] 101.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Building Code of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], hereinafter referred to as “this code.”
[A] 101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, relocation, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
Exception: Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress, and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height, shall comply with this code or the California Residential Code .
[A] 101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
[A] 101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, health and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and for providing a reasonable level of life safety and property protection from the hazards of fire, explosion or dangerous conditions, and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
[A] 101.4 Referenced codes. The other codes specified in Sections 101.4.1 through 101.4.7 and referenced elsewhere in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference.
[A] 101.4.1 Gas. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code and/or the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation of gas piping from the point of delivery, gas appliances and related accessories as covered in this code. These requirements apply to gas piping systems extending from the point of delivery to the inlet connections of appliances and the installation and operation of residential and commercial gas appliances and related accessories.
[A] 101.4.2 Mechanical. The provisions of the California Mechanical Code shall apply to the installation, alterations, repairs and replacement of mechanical systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, including ventilating, heating, cooling, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, incinerators and other energy-related systems.
[A] 101.4.3 Plumbing. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to the installation, alteration, repair and replacement of plumbing systems, including equipment, appliances, fixtures, fittings and appurtenances, and where connected to a water or sewage system and all aspects of a medical gas system. The provisions of the California Plumbing Code shall apply to private sewage disposal systems.
[A] 101.4.4 Property maintenance. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to existing structures and premises; equipment and facilities; light, ventilation, space heating, sanitation, life and fire safety hazards; responsibilities of owners, operators and occupants; and occupancy of existing premises and structures.
CEBC § 109.3.11 High relevance — show source text
3 – 109.3.11||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |109.3.6|X||X|||||X|X|||||||||||||||| |109.3.7|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |110|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |111|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |113|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |114|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |115|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |116.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol : The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
1-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
1 ADMINISTRATION
DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 1.1—GENERAL
1.1.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the California Existing Building Code, may be cited as such and will be referred to herein as “this code.” The California Existing Building Code is Part 10 of thirteen parts of the official compilation and publication of the adoption, amendment and repeal of building regulations to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards Code. This part incorporates by adoption the 2024 International Existing Building Code of the International Code Council with necessary California amendments.
1.1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.
1.1.3 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the State of California. [HCD 1 & 2] The provisions of this code shall apply to repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of every existing building or structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures throughout the State of California.
1.1.3.1 Nonstate-regulated buildings, structures and applications. Except as modified by local ordinance pursuant to Section 1.1.8, the following standards in the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Parts 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11 shall apply to all occupancies and applications not regulated by a state agency.
CEBC § 18.3 High relevance — show source text
- The deck shall be planks not less than 2 inches (51 mm) thick or wood structural panels with an exterior exposure durability classification not less than [23] / 32 inch (18.3 mm) thick nailed to the joists.
- Each post shall be knee braced to joists and stringers by members not less than 2 inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102 mm); 4 feet (1219 mm) in length.
- A curb that is not less than 2 inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102 mm) shall be set on edge along the outside edge of the deck.
[BS] 3306.8 Repair, maintenance and removal. Pedestrian protection required by this chapter shall be maintained in place and kept in good order for the entire length of time pedestrians are subject to being endangered. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent, on completion of the construction activity, shall immediately remove walkways, debris and other obstructions and leave such public property in as good a condition as it was before such work was commenced.
[BS] 3306.9 Adjacent to excavations. Every excavation on a site located 5 feet (1524 mm) or less from the street lot line shall be enclosed with a barrier not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) in height. Where located more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the street lot line, a barrier shall be erected where required by the building official. Barriers shall be of adequate strength to resist wind pressure as specified in Chapter 16.
SECTION 3307—PROTECTION OF ADJACENT PROPERTY
[BS] 3307.1 Protection required. Adjacent public and private property shall be protected from damage during construction, remodeling and demolition work. Protection shall be provided for footings, foundations, party walls, chimneys, skylights and roofs. Provisions shall be made to control water runoff and erosion during construction or demolition activities. The person making or causing an excavation to be made shall provide written notice to the owners of adjacent property advising them that the excavation is to be made and that the adjacent property should be protected. Said notification shall be delivered not less than 10 days prior to the scheduled starting date of the excavation.
[BS] 3307.2 Excavation retention systems. Where a retention system is used to provide support of an excavation for protection of adjacent property or structures, the system shall conform to the requirements in Sections 3307.2.1 through 3307.2.3.
[BS] 3307.2.1 Excavation retention system design. Excavation retention systems shall be designed by a registered design professional to provide vertical and lateral support.
[BS] 3307.2.2 Excavation retention system monitoring. The retention system design shall include requirements for monitoring of the system and adjacent property or structures for horizontal and vertical movement.
[BS] 3307.2.3 Retention system removal. Elements of the system shall only be removed or decommissioned where adequate replacement support is provided by backfill or by the new structure. Removal or decommissioning shall be performed in such a manner that protects the adjacent property.
[HCD 1 & HCD 2] Note: See Civil Code Section 832 for additional requirements related to adjoining properties and excavations.
SECTION 3308—TEMPORARY USE OF STREETS, ALLEYS AND PUBLIC PROPERTY
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for providing the temporary means of egress during demolition?
The building owner (or the owner’s agent) is responsible for providing and maintaining required exits or approved temporary means when existing egress is taken out of service; Chapter 15 assigns these duties to the project owner/contractor.
Does the 40‑foot stair requirement apply during demolition as well as new construction?
Yes — § 1508.1 requires a temporary or permanent stairway where work exceeds 40 feet above the lowest level of fire‑department vehicle access; the provision applies during construction and similar vertical work.
Can I use an exterior ladder or scaffold as the required temporary stair?
Not automatically. Any temporary means must be approved and provide an equivalent level of safety and accessibility; scaffolds or ladders typically do not meet means‑of‑egress criteria unless specifically accepted by the authority having jurisdiction. See the exception language in § 1508.2 about approved temporary systems.
What if the building is vacant — do I still need to maintain exits?
If the building is not occupied, some maintenance requirements may not apply; § 1501.4 notes maintenance of required elements is not required where the existing building is not occupied. However, coordinate with the local enforcing agency before removing exits.
Are standpipes removed immediately during demolition?
No. § 1509.2 requires existing standpipes to be maintained in operable condition and they must not be demolished more than one floor below the floor being demolished.
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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