CEBC · California Existing Building Code
How must required exits and fire protection devices be maintained during alterations and additions?
If you alter or add to an occupied building in California you must keep required exits, accessible routes and fire‑protection devices working at all times — or provide approved temporary replacements — and install temporary stairs and standpipes once construction goes above 40 feet; these obligations are in CEBC **§ 1501.4** and **§ 1508**.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
During alterations, repairs or additions, required exits, existing structural elements and fire protection devices must be maintained at all times unless the building is unoccupied or adequate substitutes are provided. This general requirement appears at § 1501.4 of the California Existing Building Code. Specific construction egress requirements — for example the need for temporary stairways when construction exceeds 40 feet and the obligation to keep means of egress (including accessible egress) available — are in § 1508.
The single most important rule: keep required exits and life‑safety devices functioning while work is happening — or provide approved substitute systems — so occupants and firefighters always have safe ways out and means to fight fire.
Requirements in detail
Core obligations
- Maintain required exits and means of egress (including accessible means of egress) at all times during construction, demolition, remodeling, alterations and additions, per § 1508.2 and the general maintenance duty in § 1501.4.
- If construction will exceed 40 feet above the lowest level of fire department access, provide a temporary or permanent stairway; extend the stair as construction progresses to within one floor of the highest point of secured decking/flooring, per § 1508.1.
- Where fire protection systems required for operation (e.g., standpipes) exist or are required by the building code, maintain or provide them for use during construction; specifically, provide at least one standpipe prior to construction exceeding 40 feet, with hose connections adjacent to stairways, per § 1509.1.
- Provide portable fire extinguishers and other site fire‑safety measures as required by § 1507 and the site safety requirements in § 1502 (site safety plan, site safety director responsibilities).
Decision table — what to maintain, thresholds, and code reference
| Item to maintain / action | Key threshold or value | What must be done | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Required exits / means of egress (incl. accessible) | Always during work (unless building unoccupied) | Keep existing egress available or provide approved temporary egress | § 1501.4, § 1508.2 |
| Temporary/permanent stairway | Construction > 40 ft above lowest fire‑dept access | Provide stairway; extend as work progresses to within one floor of highest secured deck | § 1508.1 |
| Standpipe for construction use | Buildings required to have standpipes; before construction > 40 ft | Install at least one standpipe with F.D. hose connections adjacent to stairways | § 1509.1 |
| Substitute provisions when devices being worked on | When an existing required element is under modification | Provide adequate substitute provisions (approved temporary systems/paths) | § 1501.4 Exception 1 |
| Unoccupied building | Building not occupied during work | Maintenance of required elements/devices not required while unoccupied | § 1501.4 Exception 2 |
| Portable fire extinguishers | Where combustible materials accumulate, storage/construction sheds, etc. | Provide minimum one approved extinguisher sized for ordinary hazard at required locations | § 1507.1 |
| Site fire safety planning | Prior to permit issuance | Prepare, submit and implement an approved written site safety plan and designate a site safety director | § 1502.1 – 1502.2 |
How the exceptions work
- If a required exit or fire device is itself under repair/alteration, the code permits its removal or temporary impairment only if adequate substitute provisions are provided (for example, an approved temporary stair, egress route, fire watch, or temporary standpipe), per § 1501.4 Exception 1.
- If the existing building is not occupied, continuous maintenance of these elements is not required (Exception 2 to § 1501.4). This means vacant structures can be altered without maintaining normal egress/devices, but verify local enforcement and permit conditions.
- For means of egress specifically, § 1508.2 allows existing egress to be replaced by approved temporary means (including accessible provisions) when necessary — but those temporary routes must be approved and maintain the level of safety.
Exceptions & special cases
- Work on unoccupied buildings: maintenance requirement suspended (see § 1501.4 Exception 2).
- Partial impairment while repairing a device: allowed only with approved substitute provisions (fire watch, temporary exits, alternative fire protection), per § 1501.4 Exception 1.
- High‑rise or tall construction: stair and standpipe trigger at 40 feet — this is a common threshold that drives provision of temporary vertical egress and fire protection during construction (see § 1508.1 and § 1509.1).
- Accessible egress: the code expressly includes required accessible means of egress in the maintenance requirement — temporary accessible paths must be provided if accessible egress is impacted (§ 1508.2).
Common mistakes
- Assuming "temporary" closure of exits without approval — you must provide approved substitutes (not an informal path). See § 1501.4 Exception 1.
- Forgetting accessible egress — accessible routes must be maintained or a compliant temporary accessible route provided (§ 1508.2).
- Overlooking the 40‑foot threshold for stairs/standpipes — temporary stair and standpipe requirements kick in at 40 feet, not at a larger height. Missing this creates life‑safety risk and code noncompliance (§ 1508.1, § 1509.1).
- Not preparing or implementing a site safety plan (owner responsibility) — the site safety plan must be submitted/approved before permit issuance and address fire protection during the work (§ 1502.1).
- Removing a standpipe or fire protection system without ensuring it remains operable for fire department use during demolition (see § 1509.2 for demolitions).
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A 6‑story office building (each story ~12 ft) is having an addition and interior Level 2 alterations. At the start of heavy framing the top of new construction will reach 72 ft above the lowest fire‑department access.
Applying the code:
- Because construction will exceed 40 ft, you must provide a temporary or permanent stairway and extend it as work proceeds so it remains within one floor of the highest secured decking, per § 1508.1. If your temporary stair terminates two floors below the work face, that would violate § 1508.1.
- You must install at least one standpipe and provide fire department hose connections adjacent to the stairways before construction exceeds 40 ft, per § 1509.1. Failing to have a standpipe operable when height passes 40 ft would violate § 1509.1.
- Maintain all required exits and accessible egress for occupied portions of the building; if a primary exit is being altered, provide an approved temporary egress route and document approval (per § 1501.4 Exception 1 and § 1508.2).
- Provide portable fire extinguishers at stairways and where combustible materials accumulate, per § 1507.1, and include these measures in the required site safety plan and designate a site safety director per § 1502.
Practical steps to comply in this example:
- Submit site safety plan showing temporary stair location, standpipe routing and hoz. hookup points, and designated site safety director (see § 1502.1–1502.2).
- Install temporary stair and extend it as floors rise so it is always within one floor of the highest secured deck (§ 1508.1).
- Install and maintain at least one construction standpipe with FD connections adjacent to stairways prior to passing 40 ft (§ 1509.1).
- Keep exit signage, illumination and accessible egress clear, or show approved temporary accessible routes if the original routes are being altered (§ 1508.2).
Related provisions
- § 1501.4 — Maintenance of exits, structural elements, fire protection devices (general duty).
- § 1508.1 — Stairways required when construction exceeds 40 feet; extension requirement.
- § 1508.2 — Maintenance of means of egress and accessible egress; approved temporary means allowed.
- § 1509.1 — Standpipes required for construction when required by the code; timing and hose connections.
- § 1507.1 — Portable fire extinguisher locations for construction sites.
- § 1502.1–1502.2 — Owner/site safety plan and site safety director responsibilities.
- See also Chapter 8 (Alterations—Level 2) provisions addressing egress in work areas where exits or corridors are shared (e.g., § 804 series) for alterations that change egress paths.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1501.1 High relevance — show source text
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
[F] 1502.1 Site safety plan. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention program at the project site applicable throughout all phases of the construction, repair, alteration or demolition work. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued, Any changes to the plan shall address the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of the California Fire Code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted for approval in accordance with the California Fire Code .
[F] 1502.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following as applicable:
Name and contact information of site safety director.
Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.
Procedures for reporting emergencies.
Fire department vehicle access routes.
Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.
Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.
Hot work permit plan.
Plans for control of combustible waste material.
Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.
Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.
Changes that affect this plan.
Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .
[F] 1502.2 Site safety director. The owner shall designate a person to be the site safety director. The site safety director shall be responsible for ensuring compliance with the site safety plan. The site safety director shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter and other provisions as necessary to secure the intent of this chapter. Where guard service is provided in accordance with the California Fire Code, the site safety director shall be responsible for the guard service.
CEBC § 3301.1 High relevance — show source text
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [F] will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. All other code change proposals will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 3301—GENERAL
3301.1 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 .
3301.2 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] 3301.3 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.
3301.4 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.
3301.5 Removal of waste materials Waste materials shall be removed in a manner that prevents injury or damage to persons, adjacent properties and public rights-of-way.
SECTION 3302—OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR FIRE PROTECTION
3302.1 Site safety plan. The owner or owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of an approved, written site safety plan establishing a fire prevention program at the project site applicable throughout all phases of the construction, repair, alteration or demolition work. The plan shall be submitted and approved before a building permit is issued. Any changes to the plan shall address the requirements of this chapter and other applicable portions of the Califor- nia Fire Code, the duties of staff and staff training requirements. The plan shall be submitted for approval in accordance with the California Fire Code .
3302.1.1 Components of site safety plans. Site safety plans shall include the following, as applicable:
Name and contact information of site safety director.
Documentation of the training of the site safety director and fire watch personnel.
Procedures for reporting emergencies.
Fire department vehicle access routes.
Location of fire protection equipment, including portable fire extinguishers, standpipes, fire department connections and fire hydrants.
Smoking and cooking policies, designated areas to be used where approved, and signage locations in accordance with the California Fire Code.
Location and safety considerations for temporary heating equipment.
Hot-work permit plan.
Plans for control of combustible waste material.
Locations and methods for storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids and other hazardous materials.
Provisions for site security and, where required, for a fire watch.
Changes that affect this plan.
Other site-specific information required by the California Fire Code .
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 33-3
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SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION
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
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15-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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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
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.
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 § 1.5 High relevance — show source text
entire chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Adopt only those sections
that are listed below||||X|X||X|||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section||||||||||||||||||||||||| |3301||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3302||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3303||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3304||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3304.1.5||||X||||||||||||||||||||| |3305||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3306||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3306.2||||X|X||X|||||||||||||||||| |3307||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3307.1,Note||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |3308||||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 BUILDING CODE 33-1
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33-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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33 SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION
User notes:
About this chapter: While the balance of the chapters in this code specify how a building is to be designed and constructed in order to be in compliance with the code, Chapter 33 looks to the actual construction process. Parameters are provided for demolition and for protecting adjacent property during demolition and construction. This chapter also addresses the need for a fire watch during nonworking hours for certain buildings once the construction has progressed significantly. Issues such as how to provide egress while the building is growing, the timing of standpipe and sprinkler installation, and protection of pedestrians are addressed.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [F] will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2024 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. All other code change proposals will be considered by a code development committee meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 3301—GENERAL
3301.1 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 .
3301.2 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] 3301.3 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.
3301.4 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:
CEBC § 44.5 High relevance — show source text
In_ these instances, floor separations or smoke barriers shall have a fire resistance equal to not less than [1] / 2 -inch (13 mm) gypsum wall board on each side of wood studs with openings protected by not less than a 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid bonded wood-core door of the self- closing type. All other vertical openings shall be enclosed in accordance with the provisions of Sections 1114.6 and 1114.13.
1115.4 Exit access. Each floor or portion thereof of buildings used for the housing of existing protective social-care homes or facilities shall have access to not less than two exits in such a manner as to furnish egress from the building or structure in the event of an emer- gency substantially equivalent to the provisions of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code. 1115.5 Corridor openings. Openings from rooms to interior corridors shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid-bonded wood-core doors. Transoms and other similar openings shall be sealed with materials equivalent to existing corridor wall construction.
1115.6 Interior finishes. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall conform to the requirements for a Group R-1 Occupancy as specified in Chapter 8 of the California Building Code.
1115.7 Automatic fire sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care occupancies in accor- dance with the provisions of Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code.
1115.8 Fire alarm systems. Automatic fire alarm systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care homes or facilities in accor- dance with the provisions of Section 907.2.6 of the California Building Code.
Exception: When an approved automatic sprinkler system conforming to Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code is installed, a separate fire alarm system as specified in this section need not be provided.
SECTION 1116—EXISTING GROUP L AND GROUP H-8 OCCUPANCIES [SFM]
1116.1 Repairs general. Additions, alterations or repairs may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing build- ing or structure to comply with all the requirements of this code section, provided the addition, alteration or repair conforms to the requirements of this section.
1116.2 Unsafe condition. Additions, repairs or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure that will cause the exist- ing building or structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code, nor shall such additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe, or to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate egress in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
1116.3 Changes in use or occupancy. Any buildings that have alternations or additions, which involves a change in use or occupancy, shall not exceed the height, number of stories and area permitted for new buildings.
CEBC § 803.2 High relevance — show source text
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.
804.4 Refuge areas. Where alterations affect the configuration of an area utilized as a refuge area, the capacity of the refuge area shall not be reduced below the required capacity of the refuge area for horizontal exits in accordance with Section 1026.4 of the Cali- fornia Building Code . Where the horizontal exit also forms a smoke compartment, the capacity of the refuge area for ambulatory care facilities shall not be reduced below that required in Sections 407.5.3, 408.6.2, 420.6.1 and 422.3.2 of the California Building Code, as applicable.
804.5 Number of exits. The number of exits or access to exits shall be in accordance with Sections 804.5.1 through 804.5.3.
804.5.1 Minimum number. Every story utilized for human occupancy on which there is a work area that includes exits or corridors shared by more than one tenant within the work area shall be provided with the minimum number of exits based on the occupancy and the occupant load in accordance with the California Building Code . In addition, the exits shall comply with Sections 804.5.1.1 and 804.5.1.2.
804.5.1.1 Single-exit buildings. A single exit or access to a single exit shall be permitted from spaces, any story or any occupiable roof where one of the following conditions exists:
- The occupant load, number of dwelling units and exit access travel distance do not exceed the values in Table 804.5.1.1(1) or 804.5.1.1(2).
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 8-5
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ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 2
CEBC § 909.12.4 High relevance — show source text
[F] 909.12.4 Automatic control. Where completely automatic control is required or used, the automatic-control sequences shall be initiated from an appropriately zoned automatic sprinkler system complying with Section 903.3.1.1, manual controls provided with ready access for the fire department and any smoke detectors required by engineering analysis.
[F] 909.13 Control air tubing. Control air tubing shall be of sufficient size to meet the required response times. Tubing shall be flushed clean and dry prior to final connections and shall be adequately supported and protected from damage. Tubing passing through concrete or masonry shall be sleeved and protected from abrasion and electrolytic action.
[F] 909.13.1 Materials. Control-air tubing shall be hard-drawn copper, Type L, ACR in accordance with ASTM B42, ASTM B43, ASTM B68/B68M, ASTM B88, ASTM B251 and ASTM B280. Fittings shall be wrought copper or brass, solder type in accordance with ASME B16.18 or ASME B16.22. Changes in direction shall be made with appropriate tool bends. Brass compression-type fittings shall be used at final connection to devices; other joints shall be brazed using a BCuP-5 brazing alloy with solidus above 1,100°F (593°C) and liquids below 1,500°F (816°C). Brazing flux shall be used on copper-to-brass joints only.
Exception: Nonmetallic tubing used within control panels and at the final connection to devices provided that all of the following conditions are met:
- Tubing shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 6 of the California Mechanical Code .
- Tubing and connected devices shall be completely enclosed within a galvanized or paint-grade steel enclosure having a minimum thickness of 0.0296 inch (0.7534 mm) (No. 22 gage). Entry to the enclosure shall be by copper tubing with a protective grommet of neoprene or Teflon or by suitable brass compression to male barbed adapter.
- Tubing shall be identified by appropriately documented coding.
- Tubing shall be neatly tied and supported within the enclosure. Tubing bridging cabinets and doors or moveable devices shall be of sufficient length to avoid tension and excessive stress. Tubing shall be protected against abrasion. Tubing connected to devices on doors shall be fastened along hinges.
[F] 909.13.2 Isolation from other functions. Control tubing serving other than smoke control functions shall be isolated by automatic isolation valves or shall be an independent system.
[F] 909.13.3 Testing. Control air tubing shall be tested at three times the operating pressure for not less than 30 minutes without any noticeable loss in gauge pressure prior to final connection to devices.
[F] 909.14 Marking and identification. The detection and control systems shall be clearly marked at all junctions, accesses and terminations.
[F] 909.15 Control diagrams. Identical control diagrams showing all devices in the system and identifying their location and function shall be maintained current and kept on file with the fire code official, the fire department and in the fire command center in a format and manner approved by the fire code official.
CEBC § 314.6 High relevance — show source text
All other vertical openings shall be enclosed in accordance with the provisions of Section 314.6 and_ 314.13.
315.4 Exit access. Each floor or portion thereof of buildings used for the housing of existing protective social-care homes or facilities shall have access to not less than two exits in such a manner as to furnish egress from the building or structure in the event of an emergency substantially equivalent to the provisions of Chapter 10 of the California Building Code. 315.5 Corridor openings. Openings from rooms to interior corridors shall be protected by not less than 1 [3] / 4 -inch (44.5 mm) solid- bonded wood-core doors. Transoms and other similar openings shall be sealed with materials equivalent to existing corridor wall construction.
315.6 Interior finishes. Interior wall and ceiling finishes shall conform to the requirements for a Group R-1 Occupancy as specified in Chapter 8 of the California Building Code.
315.7 Automatic fire sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care occupancies in accordance with the provisions of Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code.
315.8 Fire alarm systems. Automatic fire alarm systems shall be installed in existing protective social-care homes or facilities in accordance with the provisions of Section 907.2.6 of the California Building Code.
Exception: When an approved automatic sprinkler system conforming to Section 903.2.6 of the California Building Code is installed, a separate fire alarm system as specified in this section need not be provided.
SECTION 316 [SFM]—EXISTING GROUP L OCCUPANCIES
316.1 Repairs general. Additions, alterations or repairs may be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all the requirements of this code section, provided the addition, alteration or repair conforms to the requirements of this section.
316.2 Unsafe condition. Additions, repairs or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure that will cause the existing building or structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code, nor shall such additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe, or to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate egress in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
316.3 Changes in use or occupancy. Any buildings that have alternations or additions, which involves a change in use or occupancy, shall not exceed the height, number of stories and area permitted for new buildings.
316.4 Buildings not in compliance with code. Additions or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure when such existing building or structure is not in full compliance with the provisions of this code except when such addition or alteration will result in the existing building or structure being no more hazardous, based on life safety, fire safety and sanitation, than before such additions or alterations are undertaken.
CEBC § 302A.6 High relevance — show source text
Exception: Where alternative design criteria are specifically permitted.
302 A .5 Occupancy and use. Where determining the appropriate application of the referenced sections of this code, the occupancy and use of a building shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of the California Building Code .
302A.6 Maintenance. Buildings and structures, and parts thereof, shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. Devices or safe- guards which are required by this code shall be maintained in conformance with the code edition under which they were installed. The owner or the owner’s designated agent shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings and structures. To determine compliance with this subsection, the building official shall have the authority to require a building or structure to be re-inspected. The requirements of this chapter shall not provide the basis for removal or abrogation of fire protection and safety systems and devices in existing structures.
302A.7 Construction documents for retrofit or rehabilitation. The design loads and other information pertinent to the structural design required by California Building Code Section 1603A shall be included in the drawings. In addition to the information required by California Building Code Section 1603A.1.5, the drawings shall show the ground motion hazard used for the retrofit or rehabilitation as either a percentage of the California Building Code prescribed ground motion for new hospital buildings, or ASCE 41 seismic hazard designation, or a probability of exceedance in a specified time period, or a return period for exceedance of the specified ground motion.
SECTION 303 A — RESERVED
SECTION 304 A —STRUCTURAL DESIGN LOADS AND EVALUATION AND DESIGN PROCEDURES
304 A .1 Live loads. Where an addition or alteration does not result in increased design live load, existing gravity load-carrying structural elements shall be permitted to be evaluated and designed for live loads approved prior to the addition or alteration. If the approved live load is less than that required by Section 1607 A of the California Building Code, the area designated for the nonconforming live load shall be posted with placards of approved design indicating the approved live load. Where the addition or alteration results in increased design live load, the live load required by Section 1607 A of the California Building Code shall be used.
304 A .2 Snow loads on adjacent buildings. Where an alteration or addition changes the potential snow drift effects on an adjacent building, the code official is authorized to enforce Section 7.12 of ASCE 7.
304 A .3 Additions, alterations, repairs and seismic retrofit to existing buildings or structures.
304 A .3.1 Structures designed in accordance with pre-1973 building code. Provisions of this section shall apply to hospital build- ings which were originally designed to pre-1973 building codes and not designated as SPC 3 or higher in accordance with Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code.
CEBC § 105.2 High relevance — show source text
401 A .2 Compliance. The work shall not make the building less complying than it was before the repair was undertaken. Work on nondamaged components that is necessary for the required repair of damaged components shall be considered part of the repair and shall not be subject to requirements for alterations.
401 A .3 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas, repairs that constitute substantial improvement shall require that the building comply with Section 1612 A of the California Building Code .
SECTION 402 A —BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS
402 A .1 Glass replacement. The installation or replacement of glass shall be as required for new installations in accordance with the California Building Code.
SECTION 403 A —FIRE PROTECTION
403 A .1 General. Fire protection shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
SECTION 404 A —MEANS OF EGRESS
404 A .1 General. Repairs shall be done in a manner that maintains the level of protection provided for the means of egress.
SECTION 405 A —STRUCTURAL
405 A .1 General. Structural damage shall be repaired in compliance with this section and Section 401 A .2.
Exception: Routine maintenance required by Chapter 3A, ordinary repairs exempt from permit in accordance with California Building Code Section 105.2, and abatement of wear due to normal service conditions shall not be subject to the requirements for repairs in this section.
405 A .1.1 Structural concrete. Repair of structural concrete shall be permitted to comply with ACI 562 Section 1.7, except where Section 405.2.2, 405.2.3 or 405.2.4.1 requires compliance with Section 304.3.
405 A .2 Repairs to damaged buildings. Repairs to damaged buildings shall comply with this section.
405 A .2.1 Repairs for less than substantial structural damage. Unless otherwise required by this section, for damage less than substantial structural damage, the damaged elements shall be permitted to be restored to their predamage condition. New struc- tural members and connections used for this repair shall comply with the detailing provisions of this code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose and location.
405 A .2.1.1 Snow damage. Structural components whose damage was caused by or related to snow load effects shall be repaired, replaced or altered to satisfy the requirements of Section 1608 of the California Building Code .
405 A .2.2 Disproportionate earthquake damage. A building assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F that has sustained disproportionate earthquake damage shall be subject to the requirements for buildings with substantial structural damage to vertical elements of the lateral force-resisting system.
Frequently asked questions
What if I need to close an exit temporarily to do work?
You may close or alter an exit only if you provide approved substitute provisions (approved temporary egress, fire watch, etc.). This is permitted under the Exception to § 1501.4 and by § 1508.2, but the substitute must be approved and maintain equivalent safety.
Does the 40‑foot rule apply to all buildings?
Yes — the requirement to provide a temporary or permanent stairway (and timing of standpipes) applies when construction exceeds 40 feet above the lowest level of fire‑department vehicle access, per § 1508.1 and § 1509.1.
Are accessible routes required during construction?
Yes — required accessible means of egress must be maintained. If the accessible route is affected, an approved temporary accessible means must be provided under § 1508.2.
Can I remove a standpipe during demolition?
If a standpipe exists in a portion being demolished, it must be maintained operable for fire department use and may only be demolished with the building but not more than one floor below the floor being demolished (see § 1509.2).
Who is responsible for ensuring these measures are in place?
The owner or the owner’s authorized agent must prepare and implement a site safety plan and designate a site safety director responsible for compliance with these construction fire‑protection requirements (see § 1502.1–1502.2).
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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