CEBC · California Existing Building Code

What pedestrian protection (sidewalk/pedestrian walkway) is required at construction sites?

If construction or demolition is close to the sidewalk CEBC §1504 and the CBC require you to provide a safe, accessible pedestrian route (minimum 4 ft wide) and — depending on the work height and distance to the lot line — a **construction railing (42 in.)**, **8‑ft barrier**, and/or **covered walkway**; barriers must meet the design or prescriptive details in §1504.1.4/1504.1.4.1 and demolition work cannot start until pedestrian protection is in place per §3303.2.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Pedestrians adjacent to construction or demolition sites must be protected by an approved pedestrian route and physical protections (railings, barriers, and/or covered walkways) sized and located according to the distance between the work and the lot line and the height of construction. The California Existing Building Code requires a minimum 4‑foot pedestrian walkway (accessible and durable) and specific protective elements tied to Table 1504.1; see § 1504 for the controlling requirements.

The most important rule: where work is near the sidewalk the code prescribes whether you must provide a construction railing (42 in.), an 8‑ft barrier, or a covered walkway based on the construction height and the distance to the lot line — and you must always provide a safe, accessible pedestrian route unless the authority allows the sidewalk to be closed. § 1504.

Requirements in detail

Which protection is required (height × distance)

The decision is governed by the Table in § 1504 (Table 1504.1). The table ties Height of construction and Distance from construction to lot line to the required protection type.

Height of construction Distance to lot line Required protection Code reference
8 ft or less Less than 5 ft Construction railing Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.
8 ft or less 5 ft or more None required Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.
More than 8 ft Less than 5 ft Barrier and covered walkway Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.
More than 8 ft 5 ft or more but ≤ one‑quarter of construction height Barrier and covered walkway Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.
More than 8 ft 5 ft or more but between one‑quarter and one‑half the height Barrier Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.
More than 8 ft 5 ft or more and exceeding one‑half the height None required Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.

(That same matrix of protections appears in the correlated Chapter 33 provisions used for new construction/demolition activity in the California Building Code; see § 3306.1 and related text for the CBC approach.)

Walkway dimensions, structural & accessibility requirements

  • Minimum unobstructed width: 4 feet (1219 mm) (but must be “sufficient to accommodate the pedestrian traffic”). § 1504.1.1.
  • Walking surface: durable and designed to support imposed loads; minimum design live load 150 psf. § 1504.1.1.
  • Accessibility: Walkways must be accessible per Chapters 11A/11B where applicable (i.e., follow accessibility requirements). § 1504.1.1.

Construction railings, barriers and covered walkways — minimum features

  • Construction railing: minimum height 42 inches (1067 mm); intended to direct pedestrians around construction. § 1504.1.3.
  • Barrier: minimum height 8 feet (2438 mm); must be on side of walkway nearest construction and extend the full length of the site; openings protected by normally‑closed doors. § 1504.1.4.
  • Barrier design: barriers shall resist loads in CBC Chapter 16 unless built to the alternate (prescriptive) construction (2×4 plates, specified board or panel thickness and stud spacing). See § 1504.1.4.1 for the prescriptive option.
  • Directional barricade: where the temporary walkway enters the street, provide a barricade sufficient to direct vehicles away from pedestrians. § 1504.1.2.

Demolition and sequence

  • For demolition work the code requires pedestrian protection be in place before demolition begins — § 3303.2 (CBC correlated). Ensure pedestrian routes and protections are installed in advance.

Exceptions & special cases

  • A local governing authority may authorize the sidewalk to be fenced or closed; when authorized, a walkway may not be required in place of closing the sidewalk — see § 1504.1.1. Local approvals control closures and any required detours or permits.
  • The Table’s thresholds (the one‑quarter / one‑half of height tests) require you to compare the vertical height of the construction to the horizontal distance to the lot line — compute carefully. § 1504.1 (Table 1504.1).
  • Accessibility: temporary pedestrian routes must comply with accessibility Chapters; if full compliance can’t be provided because of site limitations, work with the authority having jurisdiction for approved alternatives. § 1504.1.1; also see Chapters 11A/11B.

If any specific detail (e.g., the authority’s allowance to close the sidewalk, or alternative barrier design accepted by the building official) is not contained in the CEBC text provided here, you must obtain written approval from the local building official rather than relying on an assumption. The CEBC allows local modification/alternates under established procedures.

Common mistakes

  • Treating 4 ft as a target rather than a minimum — the walk must be sized for actual pedestrian volume and accessibility (ramps, clearances). § 1504.1.1.
  • Forgetting the 150 psf minimum live load for walkway design — temporary plywood decks and supports must be sized accordingly. § 1504.1.1.
  • Misreading the Table (using vertical height vs. horizontal distance incorrectly): the “one‑quarter/one‑half of height” comparisons require converting the construction height to its fractions before comparing to the lot‑line distance. Table 1504.1 — § 1504.1.
  • Assuming a construction railing is sufficient when the Table requires a barrier and covered walkway (common when work is more than 8 ft high and close to the sidewalk). Always check Table 1504.1.

Worked example — apply the Table with numbers

Scenario: a building under renovation reaches 30 feet in height at the work face. The nearest edge of construction is 6 feet from the property/lot line (adjacent public sidewalk).

  1. Compute fractions of height:

    • One‑quarter of 30 ft = 7.5 ft.
    • One‑half of 30 ft = 15 ft.

  2. Compare distance (6 ft) to the thresholds:

    • 6 ft is ≥ 5 ft, but less than one‑quarter of the construction height (6 ft < 7.5 ft).

  3. Look up Table 1504.1: for “More than 8 ft” height with distance “5 ft or more, but not more than one‑quarter the height” = Barrier and covered walkway required. (So you must provide an 8‑ft barrier on the construction side and a covered walkway for pedestrians.) § 1504.1.

  4. Additional obligations:

    • Provide a pedestrian walkway with unobstructed width ≥ 4 ft, durable surface, accessible per Chapters 11A/11B, and designed for 150 psf live load. § 1504.1.1.
    • Where the temporary walkway extends into the street, provide a directional barricade to protect pedestrians from vehicles. § 1504.1.2.

Related provisions

  • § 1504.1 — Protection of pedestrians; Table 1504.1 (CEBC).
  • § 1504.1.1 — Walkways (min width, load, durability, accessibility).
  • § 1504.1.2 — Directional barricades.
  • § 1504.1.3 — Construction railings (42 in.).
  • § 1504.1.4 / 1504.1.4.1 — Barriers and barrier design (8 ft minimum, prescriptive construction option).
  • § 3303.2 — Pedestrian protection must be in place before demolition begins (CBC correlated).
  • § 3304.1 — Site work protections and excavation/fill safeguards (CBC correlated).
  • § 3306.1 / Table 3306.1 — Protection of pedestrians in Chapter 33 (CBC; similar matrix).

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CEBC § 3305.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 3305—SANITARY

    3305.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction, remodeling or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .

    SECTION 3306—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS

    [BS] 3306.1 Protection required. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction, remodeling and demolition activities as required by this chapter and Table 3306.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.

    TABLE 3306.1—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS Col2 Col3
    HEIGHT OF CONSTRUCTION DISTANCE FROM CONSTRUCTION TO LOT LINE TYPE OF PROTECTION REQUIRED
    8 feet or less Less than 5 feet Construction railings
    8 feet or less 5 feet or more None
    More than 8 feet Less than 5 feet Barrier and covered walkway
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but not more than one-fourth the height of
    construction    		 Barrier and covered walkway
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but between one-fourth and one-half the height
    of construction    		 Barrier
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but exceeding one-half the height of construction None
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

    [BS] 3306.2 Walkways. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel in front of every construction and demolition site unless the applicable governing authority authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced or closed. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel that leads from a building entrance or exit of an occupied structure to a public way. Walkways shall be of sufficient width to accommodate the pedestrian traffic, but shall be not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Walkways shall be provided with a durable walking surface. Walkways shall be accessible in accordance with Chapter 11 A or 11B as applicable, and shall be designed to support all imposed loads, and the design live load shall be not less than 150 pounds per square foot (psf) (7.2 kN/m [2] ).

    [BS] 3306.3 Directional barricades. Pedestrian traffic shall be protected by a directional barricade where the walkway extends into the street. The directional barricade shall be of sufficient size and construction to direct vehicular traffic away from the pedestrian path.

    [BS] 3306.4 Construction railings. Construction railings shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height and shall be sufficient to direct pedestrians around construction areas.

    [BS] 3306.5 Barriers. Barriers shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) in height and shall be placed on the side of the walkway nearest the construction. Barriers shall extend the entire length of the construction site. Openings in such barriers shall be protected by doors that are normally kept closed.

  • CEBC § 1504.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    [BS] 1504.1.1 Walkways. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel in front of every construction and demolition site unless the applicable governing authority authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced or closed. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel that leads from a building entrance or exit of an occupied structure to a public way. Walkways shall be of sufficient width to accommodate the pedestrian traffic, but shall be not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Walkways shall be provided with a durable walking surface and shall be accessible in accordance with Chapter 11 A of the California Building Code . Walkways shall be designed to support all imposed loads and the design live load shall be not less than 150 pounds per square foot (psf) (7.2 kN/m [2] ).

    [BS] 1504.1.2 Directional barricades. Pedestrian traffic shall be protected by a directional barricade where the walkway extends into the street. The directional barricade shall be of sufficient size and construction to direct vehicular traffic away from the pedestrian path.

    [BS] 1504.1.3 Construction railings. Construction railings shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height and shall be sufficient to direct pedestrians around construction areas.

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    [BS] 1504.1.4 Barriers. Barriers shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) in height and shall be placed on the side of the walkway nearest the construction. Barriers shall extend the entire length of the construction site. Openings in such barriers shall be protected by doors that are normally kept closed.

    [BS] 1504.1.4.1 Barrier design. Barriers shall be designed to resist loads required in Chapter 16 of the California Building Code unless constructed as follows:

    1. Barriers shall be provided with 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) top and bottom plates.
    2. The barrier material shall be boards not less than [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) in thickness or wood structural use panels not less than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness.
    3. Wood structural use panels shall be bonded with an adhesive identical to that for exterior wood structural use panels.
    4. Wood structural use panels [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) or [15] / 16 inch (23.8 mm) in thickness shall have studs spaced not more than 2 feet (610 mm) on center.
    5. Wood structural use panels [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm) or [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) in thickness shall have studs spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center, provided that a 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) stiffener is placed horizontally at mid-height where the stud spacing is greater than 2 feet (610 mm) on center.
    6. Wood structural use panels [5] / 8 inch (15.9 mm) or thicker shall not span over 8 feet (2438 mm).
  • CEBC § 1502.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    1. Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.

    2. Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    3. Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.

    [F] 1502.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.2. Upon the third offense, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the code official.

    SECTION 1503—SANITARY

    [BG] 1503.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .

    SECTION 1504—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS

    [BS] 1504.1 Protection of pedestrians. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction and demolition activities as required by Sections 1504.1.1 through 1504.1.7 and Table 1504.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.

    TABLE 1504.1—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS Col2 Col3
    HEIGHT OF
    CONSTRUCTION    		 DISTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION TO LOT LINE TYPE OF PROTECTION REQUIRED
    8 feet or less Less than 5 feet Construction railings
    8 feet or less 5 feet or more None
    More than 8 feet Less than 5 feet Barrier and covered walkway
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but not more than one-fourth the height of construction Barrier and covered walkway
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but between one-fourth and one-half the height of construction Barrier
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but exceeding one-half the height of construction None
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

    [BS] 1504.1.1 Walkways. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel in front of every construction and demolition site unless the applicable governing authority authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced or closed. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel that leads from a building entrance or exit of an occupied structure to a public way. Walkways shall be of sufficient width to accommodate the pedestrian traffic, but shall be not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Walkways shall be provided with a durable walking surface and shall be accessible in accordance with Chapter 11 A of the California Building Code . Walkways shall be designed to support all imposed loads and the design live load shall be not less than 150 pounds per square foot (psf) (7.2 kN/m [2] ).

  • CEBC § 3306.2 High relevance — show source text

    [BS] 3306.2 Walkways. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel in front of every construction and demolition site unless the applicable governing authority authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced or closed. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel that leads from a building entrance or exit of an occupied structure to a public way. Walkways shall be of sufficient width to accommodate the pedestrian traffic, but shall be not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Walkways shall be provided with a durable walking surface. Walkways shall be accessible in accordance with Chapter 11 A or 11B as applicable, and shall be designed to support all imposed loads, and the design live load shall be not less than 150 pounds per square foot (psf) (7.2 kN/m [2] ).

    [BS] 3306.3 Directional barricades. Pedestrian traffic shall be protected by a directional barricade where the walkway extends into the street. The directional barricade shall be of sufficient size and construction to direct vehicular traffic away from the pedestrian path.

    [BS] 3306.4 Construction railings. Construction railings shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height and shall be sufficient to direct pedestrians around construction areas.

    [BS] 3306.5 Barriers. Barriers shall be not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) in height and shall be placed on the side of the walkway nearest the construction. Barriers shall extend the entire length of the construction site. Openings in such barriers shall be protected by doors that are normally kept closed.

    [BS] 3306.6 Barrier design. Barriers shall be designed to resist loads required in Chapter 16 unless constructed as follows:

    1. Barriers shall be provided with 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) top and bottom plates.

    2. The barrier material shall be boards not less than [3] / 4 -inch (19.1 mm) thick or wood structural panels not less than [1] / 4 -inch (6.4 mm) thick.

    3. Wood structural use panels shall be bonded with an adhesive identical to that for exterior wood structural use panels.

    4. Wood structural use panels [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) or [5] / 16 inch (23.8 mm) in thickness shall have studs spaced not more than 2 feet (610 mm) on center.

    5. Wood structural use panels [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm) or [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) in thickness shall have studs spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center provided that a 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) stiffener is placed horizontally at mid-height where the stud spacing is greater than 2 feet (610 mm) on center.

    6. Wood structural use panels [5] / 8 inch (15.9 mm) or thicker shall not span over 8 feet (2438 mm).

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  • CEBC § 503.1.2. High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. Buildings that are on the same lot and considered as portions of a single building in accordance with Section 503.1.2.
    2. [DSA-AC and HCD 1-AC] For purposes of accessibility in residential facilities as required by Chapters 11A and 11B, structur- ally connected buildings, buildings connected by stairs, walkways or roofs, and buildings with multiple wings shall be considered one structure.

    3104.3 Construction. The pedestrian walkway shall be of noncombustible construction.

    Exceptions:

    1. Combustible construction shall be permitted where connected buildings are of combustible construction.
    2. Fire-retardant-treated wood, in accordance with Section 603.1, Item 1.3, shall be permitted for the roof construction of the pedestrian walkway where connected buildings are not less than Type I or II construction.

    3104.4 Contents. Only materials and decorations approved by the building official shall be located in the pedestrian walkway.

    3104.5 Connections of pedestrian walkways to buildings. The connection of a pedestrian walkway to a building shall comply with Section 3104.5.1, 3104.5.2, 3104.5.3 or 3104.5.4.

    Exception: Buildings that are on the same lot and considered as portions of a single building in accordance with Section 503.1.2.

    3104.5.1 Fire barriers. Pedestrian walkways shall be separated from the interior of the building by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 and Sections 3104.5.1.1 through 3104.5.1.3.

    3104.5.1.1 Exterior walls. Exterior walls of buildings connected to pedestrian walkways shall be 2-hour fire-resistance rated. This protection shall extend not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in every direction surrounding the perimeter of the pedestrian walkway.

    3104.5.1.2 Openings in exterior walls of connected buildings. Openings in exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 3104.5.1.1 shall be equipped with opening protectives providing a not less than [3] / 4 -hour fire protection rating in accordance with Section 716.

    3104.5.1.3 Supporting construction. The fire barrier shall be supported by construction as required by Section 707.5.1.

    3104.5.2 Alternative separation. The wall separating the pedestrian walkway and the building shall comply with Section 3104.5.2.1 or 3104.5.2.2 where:

    1. The distance between the connected buildings is more than 10 feet (3048 mm).
    2. The pedestrian walkway and connected buildings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the roof of the walkway is not more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above grade connecting to the fifth, or lower, story above grade plane, of each building.

    Exception: Open parking garages need not be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.

    3104.5.2.1 Passage of smoke. The wall shall be capable of resisting the passage of smoke.

  • CEBC § 15-3 High relevance — show source text

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    CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS

    section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for inspection and review.

    1. Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.

    2. Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

    3. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.

    4. Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.

    5. Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.

    6. Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

    7. Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.

    8. The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.

    9. Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.

    10. Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    11. Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.

    [F] 1502.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.2. Upon the third offense, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the code official.

    SECTION 1503—SANITARY

    [BG] 1503.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .

    SECTION 1504—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS

    [BS] 1504.1 Protection of pedestrians. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction and demolition activities as required by Sections 1504.1.1 through 1504.1.7 and Table 1504.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.

  • CEBC § 3104.5.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    3104.5.1.1 Exterior walls. Exterior walls of buildings connected to pedestrian walkways shall be 2-hour fire-resistance rated. This protection shall extend not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in every direction surrounding the perimeter of the pedestrian walkway.

    3104.5.1.2 Openings in exterior walls of connected buildings. Openings in exterior walls required to be fire-resistance rated in accordance with Section 3104.5.1.1 shall be equipped with opening protectives providing a not less than [3] / 4 -hour fire protection rating in accordance with Section 716.

    3104.5.1.3 Supporting construction. The fire barrier shall be supported by construction as required by Section 707.5.1.

    3104.5.2 Alternative separation. The wall separating the pedestrian walkway and the building shall comply with Section 3104.5.2.1 or 3104.5.2.2 where:

    1. The distance between the connected buildings is more than 10 feet (3048 mm).
    2. The pedestrian walkway and connected buildings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, and the roof of the walkway is not more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above grade connecting to the fifth, or lower, story above grade plane, of each building.

    Exception: Open parking garages need not be equipped with an automatic sprinkler system.

    3104.5.2.1 Passage of smoke. The wall shall be capable of resisting the passage of smoke.

    3104.5.2.2 Glass. The wall shall be constructed of a tempered, wired or laminated glass and doors separating the interior of the building from the pedestrian walkway. The glass shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 that, when actuated, shall completely wet the entire surface of interior sides of the wall or glass. Obstructions shall not be installed between the sprinkler heads and the wall or glass. The glass shall be in a gasketed frame and installed in such a manner that the framing system will deflect without breaking (loading) the glass before the sprinkler operates.

    3104.5.3 Open sides on walkway. Where the distance between the connected buildings is more than 10 feet (3048 mm), the walls at the intersection of the pedestrian walkway and each building need not be fire-resistance rated provided that both sidewalls of the pedestrian walkway are not less than 50 percent open with the open area uniformly distributed to prevent the

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    accumulation of smoke and toxic gases. The roof of the walkway shall be located not more than 40 feet (12 160 mm) above grade plane, and the walkway shall only be permitted to connect to the third or lower story of each building.

    Exception: Where the pedestrian walkway is protected with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, the roof of the walkway shall be located not more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above grade plane and the walkway shall only be permitted to connect to the fifth or lower story of each building.

  • CEBC § 3304.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    3304.1.1 Slope limits. Slopes for permanent fill shall be not steeper than one unit vertical in two units horizontal (50-percent slope). Cut slopes for permanent excavations shall be not steeper than one unit vertical in two units horizontal (50-percent slope). Deviation from the foregoing limitations for cut slopes shall be permitted only upon the presentation of a soil investigation report acceptable to the building official.

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    3304.1.2 Surcharge. Fill or other surcharge loads shall not be placed adjacent to any building or structure unless such building or structure is capable of withstanding the additional loads caused by the fill or surcharge. Existing footings or foundations that can be affected by any excavation shall be underpinned adequately or otherwise protected against settlement and shall be protected against lateral movement.

    3304.1.3 Footings on adjacent slopes. For footings on adjacent slopes, see Chapter 18.

    3304.1.4 Fill supporting foundations. Fill to be used to support the foundations of any building or structure shall comply with Section 1804.6. Special inspections of compacted fill shall be in accordance with Section 1705.6.

    3304.1.5 [HCD 1] Storm water drainage and retention during construction. Projects which disturb less than one acre of soil and are not part of a larger common plan of development which in total disturbs one acre or more, shall manage storm water drainage during construction in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 4, Division 4.1.

    SECTION 3305—SANITARY

    3305.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction, remodeling or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .

    SECTION 3306—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS

    [BS] 3306.1 Protection required. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction, remodeling and demolition activities as required by this chapter and Table 3306.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.

    TABLE 3306.1—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS Col2 Col3
    HEIGHT OF CONSTRUCTION DISTANCE FROM CONSTRUCTION TO LOT LINE TYPE OF PROTECTION REQUIRED
    8 feet or less Less than 5 feet Construction railings
    8 feet or less 5 feet or more None
    More than 8 feet Less than 5 feet Barrier and covered walkway
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but not more than one-fourth the height of
    construction    		 Barrier and covered walkway
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but between one-fourth and one-half the height
    of construction    		 Barrier
    More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but exceeding one-half the height of construction None
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
  • CEBC § 35.151 High relevance — show source text

    The provisions of these regulations shall apply to any portable buildings leased or owned by a school district, and shall also apply to temporary and emergency buildings and facilities. Temporary buildings and facilities are not of permanent construction but are exten- sively used or are essential for public use for a period of time. Examples of temporary buildings or facilities covered include, but are not limited to: reviewing stands, temporary classrooms, bleacher areas, exhibit areas, temporary banking facilities, temporary health screening services or temporary safe pedestrian passageways around a construction site.

    In addition, to incorporate standards at least as restrictive as those required by the federal government for barrier-free design under (1) Title III (Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities), Subpart D (New Construction and Alteration) (see 28 C.F.R., Part 36), and (2) Title II (Public Entities), Section 35.151 (New Construction and Alterations) (see 28 C.F.R., Part 35) both from the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 2004 Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines, as adopted by the U.S. Department of Justice (see 36 C.F.R. Part 1191, Appendices B and D), and (3) under the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988. Some of these regulations may be more stringent than state law in order to meet the federal requirement.

    1.9.1.1 Application. See Government Code commencing with Section 4450.

    Publicly funded buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities shall be accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities as follows:

    1.9.1.1.1 All buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities constructed in the state by the use of state, county or municipal funds, or the funds of any political subdivision of the state. For public housing see Section 1.9.1.3.

    1.9.1.1.2 All buildings, structures and facilities that are leased, rented, contracted, sublet or hired by any municipal, county or state division of government, or by a special district. For public housing see Section 1.9.1.3.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 1-13

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ADMINISTRATION

    1.9.1.1.3 All existing publicly funded buildings and facilities when alterations, structural repairs or additions are made to such buildings or facilities. For detailed requirements on existing buildings, see Chapter 11B, Division 2, Section 11B-202 . For public housing see Section 1.9.1.3.

    1.9.1.1.4 With respect to buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities not requiring a building permit, building standards published in the California Building Standards Code relating to access for persons with disabilities and other regula- tions adopted pursuant to Government Code Section 4450, and in effect at the time construction is commenced, shall be applicable.

    1.9.1.2 Application. See Health and Safety Code commencing with Section 19952.

    All privately funded public accommodations, as defined, and commercial facilities, as defined, shall be accessible to persons with disabilities as follows:

  • CEBC § 31-6 Medium relevance — show source text

    Any loads in excess of the design snow or ice load shall be removed prior to its occupancy, or the public-occupancy temporary structure shall be vacated in the event that either the design snow or ice load is exceeded during its occupancy.

    31-6 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION

    1. Wind speeds associated with the design wind loads shall be monitored before and during occupancy of the public-occupancy temporary structure. The public-occupancy temporary structure shall be vacated in the event that the design wind speed is expected to be exceeded during its occupancy.
    2. Criteria for initiating occupant evacuation procedures for flood and tsunami events.
    3. Occupant evacuation procedures shall be specified for each environmental hazard where the occupant management plan specifies the public-occupancy temporary structure is to be evacuated.
    4. Procedures for anchoring or removal of the public-occupancy temporary structure, or other additional measures or procedures to be implemented to mitigate hazards in snow, wind, flood, ice or tsunami events.

    SECTION 3104—PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS AND TUNNELS

    3104.1 General. This section shall apply to connections between buildings such as pedestrian walkways or tunnels, located at, above or below grade level, that are used as a means of travel by persons. The pedestrian walkway shall not contribute to the building area or the number of stories or height of connected buildings.

    3104.1.1 Application. Pedestrian walkways shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections 3104.2 through 3104.9. Tunnels shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections 3104.2 and 3104.10.

    3104.2 Separate structures. Buildings connected by pedestrian walkways or tunnels shall be considered to be separate structures.

    Exceptions:

    1. Buildings that are on the same lot and considered as portions of a single building in accordance with Section 503.1.2.
    2. [DSA-AC and HCD 1-AC] For purposes of accessibility in residential facilities as required by Chapters 11A and 11B, structur- ally connected buildings, buildings connected by stairs, walkways or roofs, and buildings with multiple wings shall be considered one structure.

    3104.3 Construction. The pedestrian walkway shall be of noncombustible construction.

    Exceptions:

    1. Combustible construction shall be permitted where connected buildings are of combustible construction.
    2. Fire-retardant-treated wood, in accordance with Section 603.1, Item 1.3, shall be permitted for the roof construction of the pedestrian walkway where connected buildings are not less than Type I or II construction.

    3104.4 Contents. Only materials and decorations approved by the building official shall be located in the pedestrian walkway.

    3104.5 Connections of pedestrian walkways to buildings. The connection of a pedestrian walkway to a building shall comply with Section 3104.5.1, 3104.5.2, 3104.5.3 or 3104.5.4.

    Exception: Buildings that are on the same lot and considered as portions of a single building in accordance with Section 503.1.2.

    3104.5.1 Fire barriers. Pedestrian walkways shall be separated from the interior of the building by not less than 2-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 and Sections 3104.5.1.1 through 3104.5.1.3.

  • CEBC § 3104.5.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    3104.5.4 Exterior walls greater than 2 hours. Where exterior walls of connected buildings are required by Section 705 to have a fire-resistance rating greater than 2 hours, the walls at the intersection of the pedestrian walkway and each building need not be fire-resistance rated provided:

    1. The pedestrian walkway is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.

    2. The roof of the walkway is not located more than 55 feet (16 764 mm) above grade plane and the walkway connects to the fifth, or lower, story above grade plane of each building.

    3104.6 Public way. Pedestrian walkways over a public way shall comply with Chapter 32.

    [BE] 3104.7 Egress. Access shall be provided at all times to a pedestrian walkway that serves as a required exit.

    [BE] 3104.8 Width. The unobstructed width of pedestrian walkways shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm). The total width shall be not greater than 30 feet (9144 mm).

    [BE] 3104.9 Exit access travel. The length of exit access travel shall be 200 feet (60 960 mm) or less.

    Exceptions:

    1. Exit access travel distance on a pedestrian walkway equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 shall be 250 feet (76 200 mm) or less.

    2. Exit access travel distance on a pedestrian walkway constructed with both sides not less than 50 percent open shall be 300 feet (91 440 mm) or less.

    3. Exit access travel distance on a pedestrian walkway constructed with both sides not less than 50 percent open, and equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, shall be 400 feet (122 m) or less.

    3104.10 Tunneled walkway. Separation between the tunneled walkway and the building to which it is connected shall be not less than 2-hour fire-resistant construction and openings therein shall be protected in accordance with Section 716.

    SECTION 3105—AWNINGS AND CANOPIES

    3105.1 General. Awnings and canopies shall comply with the requirements of Sections 3105.2 and 3105.3 and other applicable sections of this code.

    3105.2 Design and construction. Awnings and canopies shall be designed and constructed to withstand wind or other lateral loads and live loads as required by Chapter 16 with due allowance for shape, open construction and similar features that relieve the pressures or loads. Structural members shall be protected to prevent deterioration. Awnings shall have frames of noncombustible material, fire-retardant-treated wood, heavy timber complying with Section 2304.11 or 1-hour construction, and shall be fixed, retractable, folding or collapsible.

  • California Existing Building Code Medium 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.

Frequently asked questions

Do I always have to keep the public sidewalk open?

Not always — the applicable governing authority can authorize fencing or closure of the sidewalk, but that authorization must come from the local authority and any required detour/permit conditions must be met. See § 1504.1.1.

If my covered walkway is temporary, how strong must it be?

Design the walkway to support all imposed loads with a minimum design live load of 150 psf; it must have a durable surface and meet accessibility rules. § 1504.1.1.

Is 4 feet always acceptable for wheelchair users?

Four feet (1219 mm) is the minimum unobstructed width; the walkway must be “sufficient to accommodate the pedestrian traffic” and comply with Chapters 11A/11B — in many situations more than 4 ft will be required for accessibility or where pedestrian volumes are higher. § 1504.1.1.

What height must a barrier be, and can I use an alternate design?

Barriers must be at least 8 feet high and extend the length of the site; they must resist loads per CBC Chapter 16 unless built to the prescriptive alternate (2×4 plates, specified panel thicknesses and stud spacing) described in § 1504.1.4.1.

When must pedestrian protection be installed for demolition?

The code requires pedestrian protection be in place before demolition work begins — § 3303.2 (CBC correlated).

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When is temporary use of streets, alleys or public property permitted for construction operations?

How must adjoining property be protected during construction and demolition?

Pedestrian protection, adjoining-property safeguards and temporary public-use of streets

California Existing Building Code