CEBC · California Existing Building Code
Which compliance method (prescriptive, work area, performance) applies to my alteration, addition or change of occupancy?
As a homeowner: for any alteration, addition, or change of use you must pick one CEBC path — prescriptive (a fixed list of upgrades), work‑area (upgrade only the affected portion; use Levels 1–3 based on the work-area percent), or performance (a scoring-based alternative only where your jurisdiction allows). Do not mix methods; check the **50%** work-area threshold and whether your local authority has adopted Chapter 13 before you prepare plans.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
You must elect one of three compliance methods for any alteration, addition or change of occupancy: the Prescriptive Compliance Method (Chapter 5), the Work Area Compliance Method (Chapters 6–12), or the Performance Compliance Method (Chapter 13). The applicant selects which method; the project must fully follow that method and the methods may not be combined . See § 301 and § 301.3 for the controlling rule .
The single most important rule: pick one method and follow it in full — you cannot mix prescriptive, work area and performance methods for the same alteration, addition or change of occupancy (see § 301.3) .
Requirements in detail
The three choices (bold on first mention)
- Prescriptive Compliance Method — follow Chapter 5 requirements; applicable when you elect the prescriptive route and the building is subject to the California Fire Code where required; see § 301.3.1 .
- Work Area Compliance Method — follow Chapters 6–12 and classify the work as Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Change of Occupancy or Addition depending on the work area and scope; see § 301.3.2 and Chapter 6 for definitions and thresholds (notably the 50 percent work-area threshold) .
- Performance Compliance Method — follow Chapter 13 (numerical scoring/performance evaluation) where adopted by the enforcing jurisdiction; see § 301.3.3 and Chapter 13 (note: Chapter 13 is not adopted statewide and may be available only by local ordinance) .
Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick table)
| Decision factor | Typical values / threshold | Resulting method or trigger | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applicant's chosen compliance route | Prescriptive / Work Area / Performance | Project must comply entirely with that chapter/method | § 301.3 |
| Work area size (work area ÷ building area) | ≤ 50% → Level 2 or less; > 50% → Level 3 | Use Work Area Method Chapters 6–9; Level determines required Chapter(s) | Chapter 6; Sections 602, 603, 604 |
| Type of work | Replacement/covering only | Level 1 (Chapter 7) under Work Area Method | Chapter 6 / § 602.1 |
| Jurisdictional adoption | Chapter 13 adopted locally? | Performance method only available where adopted; otherwise choose prescriptive or work area | Chapter 13 / § 1301–1302; note on local adoption |
| Special agency application (OSHPD, HCD, DSA) | OSHPD/HCD/DSA may limit adoption | Some sections (e.g., § 301.3.2 and § 301.3.3) are not adopted for certain state agencies — check Chapter 3A and agency notes | § 301.3 and Chapter 3A notes |
How the pathways differ (short)
- Prescriptive (Chapter 5): administrative/recipe-style requirements; structural triggers align with work-area structural triggers; intended where a straightforward set of upgrades is appropriate .
- Work Area (Chapters 6–12): classify the work (Level 1/2/3) based on the work area and apply targeted technical requirements — allows different upgrade obligations localized to the work area(s) .
- Performance (Chapter 13): scoring system across safety parameters to demonstrate an equivalent level of safety instead of meeting specific prescriptive items; only available where adopted by the enforcing agency (not adopted statewide) .
Exceptions & special cases
- Exception to selecting a method: subject to approval by the code official, an alteration that complies with the laws in effect when the building (or affected portion) was originally built may be found to comply with the CEBC — but accessibility, substantial structural damage, and flood hazard limits apply; new structural members introduced must comply with the California Building Code .
- State agency limits: certain state agencies (for example OSHPD-regulated facilities) do not adopt Sections § 301.3.2 and § 301.3.3 for their applications — consult Chapter 3A and the agency adoption notes before assuming work-area or performance methods are available for those facilities .
- Performance method adoption: Chapter 13 is not adopted statewide; it may be available only by local ordinance. Verify with the local enforcing agency before preparing a performance-based submittal .
- Flood and accessibility: the CEBC exception to historic code compliance does not override accessibility requirements (see CBC Chapter 11A) or flood substantial-improvement requirements — those may force upgrades regardless of chosen method .
Common mistakes
- Trying to combine methods: applying some prescriptive items and some work-area items to the same alteration is not permitted — the applicant must select one method and comply fully with it (§ 301.3) .
- Miscalculating the work area or the 50 percent threshold: Level classification (Level 1/2/3) depends on the work-area percentage — get area calculations and the work-area definition correct to determine whether Chapters 7–9 or Chapter 10 (change of occupancy) apply .
- Assuming performance method is always available: many jurisdictions (and some state agencies) have not adopted Chapter 13; using it without local adoption can lead to rejected plans .
- Ignoring agency-specific adoption notes: OSHPD, HCD and DSA adoption matrices and Chapter 3A specify which CEBC sections apply to state-regulated facilities — always check those notes first .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: An owner plans a tenant improvement in a 10,000 sq ft existing office building. The work reconfigures 3,000 sq ft of interior space and adds new mechanical runs only in that area.
Step 1 — compute work area: 3,000 / 10,000 = 30% of the building area (work area ≤ 50%). Under the Work Area Method that is a Level 2 alteration (space reconfiguration up to and including 50%) .
Step 2 — choose a method:
- If the applicant elects the Work Area Compliance Method, they must follow Chapters 6 (classification) and 8 (Alterations—Level 2) to determine required upgrades to means of egress, fire protection, structural and building systems for the Level 2 work area .
- If the applicant instead elects the Prescriptive Method, they must follow Chapter 5 provisions and ensure the building meets applicable prescriptive upgrades and the California Fire Code requirements noted in § 301.3.1 .
- If the applicant wants to use the Performance Method (Chapter 13), first confirm the local jurisdiction has adopted Chapter 13; if not adopted, the performance route is not available .
Step 3 — check agency-specific adoption: if the building is an OSHPD facility or other state‑regulated facility, verify whether § 301.3.2 or § 301.3.3 are adopted for that facility type before selecting Work Area or Performance methods .
Result: In this example, the most direct path is the Work Area Compliance Method (Level 2, Chapters 6–8) unless the owner elects prescriptive compliance or the jurisdiction allows performance compliance and the owner prefers that route.
Related provisions
- § 301 — Administration; overall requirement to comply with Section 301.2, 301.3 or 301.4
- § 301.3 — Alteration, addition or change of occupancy; applicant selects one method; methods not to be combined
- § 301.3.1 — Prescriptive compliance (Chapter 5)
- § 301.3.2 — Work Area compliance (Chapters 6–12)
- § 301.3.3 — Performance compliance (Chapter 13) — Chapter 13 adoption note (may not be adopted statewide)
- § 602 / § 603 / § 604 — Level 1 / Level 2 / Level 3 alteration scopes and thresholds (work-area definitions, 50 percent threshold)
- Chapter 5 — Prescriptive Compliance Method (details of prescriptive upgrades)
- Chapters 6–12 — Work Area compliance method and technical chapters for Level 1–3, change of occupancy, additions, historic buildings
- Chapter 13 — Performance Compliance Method (numerical scoring approach; local adoption required)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 5A Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing build- ings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 6 Classification of Work.
Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method and defines the different classifications of work including alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in subsequent Chapters 7 through 11.
Chapter 7 Alterations—Level 1.
Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by only involving replacement of building components with new components with no reconfiguration of space.
Chapter 8 Alterations—Level 2.
A Level 2 alteration is an alteration involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building or addition of a new building system. Level 2 alterations also include the extension or addition of any system or equipment. The purpose of Chapter 8 is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, means of egress, fire protection, structural systems, energy efficiency, and other building systems include electrical, mechanical and plumbing when a building is being altered.
Chapter 9 Alterations—Level 3.
Chapter 9 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 3 alterations. Level 3 alterations are those involving alterations that cover 50 percent of the aggregate area of the building. Under certain situations, this chapter also intends to improve the safety of certain building features beyond the work area and in other parts of the building where no alteration work might be taking place.
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
CEBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
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Chapter 3 Provisions for All Compliance Methods.
Chapter 3 guides the use of the three compliance methods of the CEBC and provides requirements that apply globally. The globally applicable requirement include general requirements related to buildings materials and other applicable codes, storm shelters, structural loads, in-situ load tests, accessibility, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detection and exterior wall coverings.
Chapter 3A Provisions for All Compliance Methods.
Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 4 Repairs.
Chapter 4, a chapter independent of the three compliance methods, governs the repair of existing buildings. The provisions define conditions under which repairs may be made using materials and methods like those of the original construction or the extent to which repairs must comply with requirements for new buildings.
Chapter 4A Repairs.
Chapter 4A governs the repair of existing buildings regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of State- wide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 5 Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5 provides one of the three main options of compliance available in the CEBC for buildings and structures undergoing alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The base requirements are more administrative in nature. The structural triggers for upgrades are consistent with the Work Area Method.
Chapter 5A Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing build- ings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 6 Classification of Work.
Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method and defines the different classifications of work including alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in subsequent Chapters 7 through 11.
Chapter 7 Alterations—Level 1.
Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by only involving replacement of building components with new components with no reconfiguration of space.
Chapter 8 Alterations—Level 2.
A Level 2 alteration is an alteration involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building or addition of a new building system. Level 2 alterations also include the extension or addition of any system or equipment. The purpose of Chapter 8 is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, means of egress, fire protection, structural systems, energy efficiency, and other building systems include electrical, mechanical and plumbing when a building is being altered.
Chapter 9 Alterations—Level 3.
CEBC § 301.3.2 High relevance — show source text
301.3.2 Work area compliance method. A lterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with the applicable requirements of Chapters 6 through 12 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301.3.3 Performance compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 13 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
Note: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] The provisions contained in Chapter 13 are not adopted by HCD, but may be available for adoption by a local ordinance. (See Section 1.1.11.)
301.4 Relocated or moved buildings. Relocated or moved buildings shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 14.
SECTION 302—GENERAL PROVISIONS
302.1 Dangerous conditions. The code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.
302.1.1 Dangerous conditions. [BSC] Regardless of the extent of structural or nonstructural damage, the code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.
302.2 Additional codes. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in this code and the California Energy Code, California Fire Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code, California Residential Code and California Electrical Code . Where provisions of the other codes conflict with provisions of this code, the provisions of this code shall take precedence.
302.2.1 Additional codes in health care. In existing Group I-2 occupancies, ambulatory health care facilities, outpatient clinics and hyperbaric facilities, alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall also comply with NFPA 99.
302.3 Existing materials. Materials already in use in a building in compliance with requirements or approvals in effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be permitted to remain in use unless determined by the code official to be unsafe.
302.4 New and replacement materials. Except as otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials permitted by the applicable code for new construction shall be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs and alterations, provided that unsafe conditions are not created. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for new construction would not permit their use in buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location. [HCD 1] Local ordinances or regulations shall permit the replacement, retention and extension of original materials, and the use of original methods of construction, for any building or accessory structure, provided such building or structure complied with the building code provisions in effect at the time of original construction and the building or accessory structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922(d), 17922.3, 17958.8 and 17958.9.
Exception: No replacement residential garage door shall be installed to connect the replacement door to an existing residential automatic garage door opener that does not have a battery backup function designed to keep the garage door operational without interruption during an electrical outage. See Health and Safety Code Section 19892.
CBC § 301 High relevance — show source text
This code provides three main options for a designer in dealing with alterations of existing buildings. These are laid out in Section 301 of this code:
Option 1: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Prescriptive Compliance Method given in Chapter 5. It should be noted that this method originates from the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Option 2: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Work Area Compliance Method given in Chapters 6 through 12.
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Option 3: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Performance Compliance Method given in Chapter 13. It should be noted that this option was also provided in the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Under limited circumstances, a building alteration can be made to comply with the laws under which the building was originally built, as long as the accessibility requirements are met, there has been no substantial structural damage and there will be limited structural alteration. Flood hazard provisions also must still be addressed where there is a substantial improvement.
Note that all repairs must comply with Chapter 4 and all relocated buildings are addressed by Chapter 14.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CEBC
The format of the CEBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CEBC is divided. The subsequent table shows CEBC requirements that are correlated with other California Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CEBC.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECTS 1, 2 Administrative Requirements and Definitions 3 Provisions for all Compliance Methods 4 Repairs 5 Prescriptive Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 6–11 Work Area Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 13 Performance Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 14 Relocated Buildings 15 Construction Safeguards 16 Referenced Standards Appendix A Guidelines for Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings Appendix C Guidelines for Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings Appendix D Board of Appeals Appendix E Temporary Emergency Uses Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE CORRELATED TOPICS
The CEBC requirements for construction safeguards are directly correlated to the requirements of the CBC. The following table shows chapters of the CBC that are correlated with the CEBC:
CEBC/CBC CORRELATED TOPICS Col2 Col3 CEBC CHAPTER/SECTION CBC CHAPTER/SECTION SUBJECT Chapter 15 Chapter 33 Construction safeguards Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
CBC § 301 High relevance — show source text
The IEBC is a model code in the International Code family of codes intended to provide requirements for repair and alternative approaches for alterations, changes of occupancy and additions to existing buildings. A large number of existing buildings and structures do not comply with the current building code requirements for new construction. Although many of these buildings are potentially salvageable, rehabilitation is often cost-prohibitive because compliance with all the requirements for new construction could require extensive changes that go well beyond the value of the building or the original scope of the alteration. At the same time, it is necessary to regulate construction in existing buildings that undergo additions, alterations, extensive repairs or change of occupancy. Such activity represents an opportunity to ensure that new construction complies with the current building codes and that existing conditions are maintained, at a minimum, to their current level of compliance or are improved as required to meet basic safety levels. To accomplish this objective, and to make the alteration process easier, this code allows for options for controlled departure from full compliance with the International Codes dealing with new construction, while maintaining basic levels for fire safety, structural and life safety features of the rehabilitated building.
This code provides three main options for a designer in dealing with alterations of existing buildings. These are laid out in Section 301 of this code:
Option 1: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Prescriptive Compliance Method given in Chapter 5. It should be noted that this method originates from the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Option 2: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Work Area Compliance Method given in Chapters 6 through 12.
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Option 3: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Performance Compliance Method given in Chapter 13. It should be noted that this option was also provided in the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Under limited circumstances, a building alteration can be made to comply with the laws under which the building was originally built, as long as the accessibility requirements are met, there has been no substantial structural damage and there will be limited structural alteration. Flood hazard provisions also must still be addressed where there is a substantial improvement.
Note that all repairs must comply with Chapter 4 and all relocated buildings are addressed by Chapter 14.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CEBC
The format of the CEBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CEBC is divided. The subsequent table shows CEBC requirements that are correlated with other California Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CEBC.
CEBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
**_ The provisions of adopted sections in Chapters 3 through 5 shall control the alteration, repair and change of occupancy or function of existing structures for applications listed in Section 1.10.1, 1.10.2, 1.10.4 and 1.10.5 regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD). Functional service spaces shall comply with the requirements in the California Building Code, Sections 1224, 1225, 1226, 1227 and 1228.
301.1.1 Bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands. Existing bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands shall comply with ICC 300.
301.2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4.
301.3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings shall comply with one of the methods listed in Section 301.3.1, 301.3.2 or 301.3.3 as selected by the applicant. Sections 301.3.1 through 301.3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Sections 301.3.2 and 301.3.3, not adopted by OSHPD.
Exception: Subject to the approval of the code official, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code . This exception shall not apply to the following:
Alterations for accessibility required by the California Building Code, Chapter 11A.
Alterations that constitute substantial improvement in flood hazard areas, which shall comply with Sections 503.2, 701.3 or 1303.1.3.
Structural provisions of Section 304, Chapter 5 or to the structural provisions of Sections 706, 805 and 906.
301.3.1 Prescriptive compliance. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 of this code in buildings complying with the California Fire Code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
Exception: Hospital buildings removed from acute care service, skilled nursing facilities, intermediate-care facilities, correctional treatment centers and acute psychiatric hospitals [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5]. The provisions of adopted sections in Chapters 3 through 5 shall control the alteration, repair and change of occupancy or function of existing structures for applications listed in Section 1.10.1, 1.10.2, 1.10.4 and 1.10.5 regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD). Refer to Chapter 3A for services, systems and utilities that serve OSHPD 1 buildings.
CEBC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text
California Energy Commission, State Fire Marshal and DSA-AC requirements for existing structures shall be enforced by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
301 A .1.1 Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating. Existing bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating shall comply with ICC 300.
301 A .2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4 A .
301 A .3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings or structures shall comply with one of the methods or categories listed in Section 301 A .3.1, 301 A .3.2 or 301 A .3.3. Section 304A.3.2 applies to all methods or categories. Sections 301 A .3.1 through 301 A .3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other , except when permitted by the enforcement agency.
Exception: Subject to the approval of the enforcement agency, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code .
301 A .3.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 A of this code for existing buildings or structures shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301 A .3.2 Nonconforming buildings . Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings or structures designed in accordance with the Pre-1973 building code complying with Section 304A.3.1 and the applicable requirements herein shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301 A .3.3 Performance- based method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing buildings or structures complying with Sections 304A.3.4 and 304A.3.5 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
301 A .4 Moved structures . Structures moved into or within the jurisdiction shall comply with the provisions of the California Building Code for new structures.
301A.5 Reserved.
301A.6 Peer review requirements. Peer review requirements shall comply with California Building Code Section 1617A.1.41.
301A.7 Earthquake monitoring instruments for existing buildings. Earthquake monitoring instrumentation of existing buildings shall comply with Section 313A.
301A.8 Compliance alternatives for services/systems and utilities . Compliance alternatives for services/systems and utilities shall comply with Section 310A.
301A.9 Compliance alternatives for means of egress. Means of egress through existing buildings shall comply with Section 311A.
301A.10 Removal of hospital buildings from general acute care services. Removal of hospital buildings from General Acute Care Services shall comply with Section 312A.
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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3 A PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers [applications listed in Section 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1)].
SECTION 301 A —ADMINISTRATION
301 A .1 Applicability. The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, repair, addition and change of occupancy of existing structures for applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 [OSHPD 1] regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
California Energy Commission, State Fire Marshal and DSA-AC requirements for existing structures shall be enforced by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).
301 A .1.1 Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating. Existing bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating shall comply with ICC 300.
301 A .2 Repairs. Repairs shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4 A .
301 A .3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing buildings or structures shall comply with one of the methods or categories listed in Section 301 A .3.1, 301 A .3.2 or 301 A .3.3. Section 304A.3.2 applies to all methods or categories. Sections 301 A .3.1 through 301 A .3.3 shall not be applied in combination with each other , except when permitted by the enforcement agency.
Exception: Subject to the approval of the enforcement agency, alterations complying with the laws in existence at the time the building or the affected portion of the building was built shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code. New structural members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code .
301 A .3.1 Prescriptive compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 A of this code for existing buildings or structures shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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13 PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS
Not adopted by the State of California (May be available for adoption by local ordinance. See Section 1.1.11.) (See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.)
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated so as to show that alterations, while not meeting new construction requirements, will improve the current existing situation. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 various safety parameters and the degree of code compliance for each issue.
SECTION 1301—GENERAL
1301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to the alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing structures, including historic structures, as referenced in Section 301.3.3. The provisions of this chapter are intended to maintain or increase the current degree of public safety, health and general welfare in existing buildings while permitting, alteration, addition and change of occupancy without requiring full compliance with Chapters 6 through 12, except where compliance with the prescriptive method of Chapter 5 or the work area method of other provisions of this code is specifically required in this chapter.
1301.1.1 Compliance with other methods. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing structures shall comply with the provisions of this chapter or with one of the methods provided in Section 301.3.
SECTION 1302—APPLICABILITY
1302.1 General. Existing buildings in which there is work involving additions, alterations or changes of occupancy shall be made to conform to the requirements of this chapter or the provisions of Chapters 6 through 12. The provisions of Sections 1302.1.1 through 1302.1.6 shall apply to existing occupancies that will continue to be, or are proposed to be, in Groups A, B, E, F, I-2, M, R and S. These provisions shall also apply to Group U occupancies where such occupancies are undergoing a change of occupancy or a partial change in occupancy with separations in accordance with Section 1302.1.2. These provisions shall not apply to buildings with occupancies in Group H, I-1, I-3 or I-4.
1302.1.1 Change in occupancy. Where an existing building is changed to a new occupancy classification and this section is applicable, the provisions of this section for the new occupancy shall be used to determine compliance with this code.
1302.1.2 Partial change in occupancy. Where a portion of the building is changed to a new occupancy classification and that portion is separated from the remainder of the building with fire barrier or horizontal assemblies having a fire-resistance rating as required by Table 508.4 of the International Building Code or Section R302 of the International Residential Code for the separate occupancies, or with approved compliance alternatives, the portion changed shall be made to conform to the provisions of this section. Only the portion separated shall be required to be evaluated for compliance.
CEBC § 170.1 High relevance — show source text
b. Either:
(i) Performance approach: Section 170.1; or (ii) Prescriptive approach: Section 170.2(a) through (f).
F. Covered processes.
i. Sections applicable. Sections 110.2, 120.3, 120.6, 140.9, and 141.1 apply to covered processes. ii. Compliance approaches. In order to comply with Part 6, covered processes must meet the requirements of: a. The applicable mandatory measures in Sections 110.2, 120.3 and 120.6; and
b. Either:
(i) The performance approach requirements of Section 140.1; or (ii) The prescriptive approach requirements of Section 140.9. 3. New construction in existing buildings (additions, alterations and repairs). A. Nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings. Section 141.0 applies to new construction in existing nonresidential, high-rise residential and hotel/motel buildings. New construction in existing buildings includes additions, alterations and repairs. Section 141.0 specifies requirements that uniquely apply to additions, alterations or repairs to existing buildings, and specify which requirements in other sections also apply. For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 141.0 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. B. Single-family buildings. Section 150.2 applies to new construction in existing single-family buildings. New construction in existing buildings includes additions, alterations and repairs. Section 150.2 specifies requirements that uniquely apply to additions, alterations or repairs to existing buildings, and specifies which requirements in other sections also apply. For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 150.2 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. C. Multifamily buildings. Section 180.0 applies to new construction in existing multifamily buildings. New construction in existing buildings includes additions, alterations and repairs. Section 180.0 specifies requirements that uniquely apply to additions, alterations or repairs to existing buildings, and specifies which requirements in other sections also apply. For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 180.0 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. 4. Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Section 110.8(d) applies to buildings in which insulation is being installed in existing attics, or on existing water heaters or existing space conditioning ducts. 5. Outdoor lighting. Sections 110.9, 130.0, 130.2, 130.4, 140.7, and 150.0 apply to newly constructed outdoor lighting systems, and Section 141.0 applies to outdoor lighting that is either added or altered. 6. Signs. Sections 130.0, 130.3 and 140.8 apply to newly constructed signs located either indoors or outdoors, and Section 141.0 applies to sign alterations located either indoors or outdoors.
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 3
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS
(f) Mixed occupancy. When a building is designed and constructed for more than one type of occupancy (residential and nonresidential), the space for each occupancy shall meet the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.
CEBC § 501A.3 High relevance — show source text
501 A .2 Fire-resistance ratings. Fire-resistance ratings shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
501A.3 Prescriptive compliance provisions. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to the following categories of existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions of this section.
501A.3.1 Prescriptive compliance provisions for SPC-4D using the California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980). Nonconforming buildings shall satisfy the following requirements: 1. The California Building Code, 1980 (CBC 1980), as used in this chapter, consists of the Uniform Building Code, 1979 (UBC 1979) along with requirements contained in: a) California Code of Regulations, Title 24- Building Standards, dated February 2, 1980 (Revision record for Register 80, No. 5). b) California Code of Regulations, Title 22 – Social Security, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41). c) California Code of Regulations, Title 17 – Public Health, dated October 13, 1979 (Revision Record for Register 79, No 41-B). 2. All existing structural elements of Seismic Force Resisting System (SFRS) shall satisfy the detailing requirements in the CBC 1980 or demonstrate that the level of seismic performance is equivalent to that given in the CBC 1980, as determined by the building official. 3. A continuous load path or paths with adequate strength and stiffness to transfer all the forces from the point of origin to final point of resistance shall be justified by analysis. 4. Site data report in accordance with the CBC 1980 shall establish that seismically induced differential settlement does not exceed 1 ″ in 40 ′ .
5. Adjacent buildings shall satisfy the SPC building separation requirements in accordance with the California Administrative Code, Chapter 6 Section 3.4. 6. The addition of new structural elements or strengthening of existing structural elements for retrofit of nonconforming build- ings to SPC-4D shall comply with the following: a) The seismic demand (forces or displacements) shall be in accordance with the CBC 1980; b) Capacity, detailing and connections for new structural elements shall satisfy the requirements in the CBC 2025 for new construction; and c) The strengthening of existing structural elements shall use capacities determined in accordance with the CBC 2025 for new construction consistent with the detailing and connections used in the strengthened member. 7. All construction, quality assurance and quality control shall be in accordance with the new construction provisions of CBC 2025.
8. Elements not part of the Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS), including those identified in the California Administrative Code Chapter 6, Article 10, shall be evaluated using seismic forces and the requirements of the CBC 1980. 9. Any column or wall that forms part of two or more intersecting SFRS and is subjected to axial load due to seismic forces acting along either principal plan axis equaling or exceeding 20 percent of the axial design strength of the column or wall shall be _evaluated for the most critical load effect due to application of seismic force in any direction.
CRC § 301 High relevance — show source text
This change expands the current process from two independent 1-year cycles to a single continuous 3year cycle. There will be two groups of code development committees and they will meet in separate years. The current groups will be reworked. With the energy provisions of the International Energy Conservation Code ® (IECC®) and Chapter 11 of the International Residential Code ® (IRC®) now moved to the Code Council’s Standards Development Process, the reduced volume of code changes will be distributed between Groups A and B.
Code change proposals submitted for code sections that have a letter designation in front of them will be heard by the respective committee responsible for such code sections. Because different committees hold Committee Action Hearings in different years, proposals for most codes will be heard by committees in both the 2024 (Group A) and the 2025 (Group B) code development cycles. It is very important that anyone submitting code change proposals understands which code development committee is responsible for the section of the code that is the subject of the code change proposal.
Please visit the ICC website at iccsafe.org/products-and-services/i-codes/code-development/current-code-development-cycle for further information on the Code Development Committee responsibilities as it becomes available.
Coordination of the I-Codes
The coordination of technical provisions allows the I-Codes to be used as a complete set of complementary documents. Individual codes can also be used in subsets or as stand-alone documents. Some technical provisions that are relevant to more than one subject area are duplicated in multiple model codes.
INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE
The IEBC establishes minimum requirements for existing buildings using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles intended to encourage the use and reuse of existing buildings while requiring reasonable upgrades and improvements.
The IEBC is a model code in the International Code family of codes intended to provide requirements for repair and alternative approaches for alterations, changes of occupancy and additions to existing buildings. A large number of existing buildings and structures do not comply with the current building code requirements for new construction. Although many of these buildings are potentially salvageable, rehabilitation is often cost-prohibitive because compliance with all the requirements for new construction could require extensive changes that go well beyond the value of the building or the original scope of the alteration. At the same time, it is necessary to regulate construction in existing buildings that undergo additions, alterations, extensive repairs or change of occupancy. Such activity represents an opportunity to ensure that new construction complies with the current building codes and that existing conditions are maintained, at a minimum, to their current level of compliance or are improved as required to meet basic safety levels. To accomplish this objective, and to make the alteration process easier, this code allows for options for controlled departure from full compliance with the International Codes dealing with new construction, while maintaining basic levels for fire safety, structural and life safety features of the rehabilitated building.
This code provides three main options for a designer in dealing with alterations of existing buildings. These are laid out in Section 301 of this code:
Option 1: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Prescriptive Compliance Method given in Chapter 5. It should be noted that this method originates from the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Option 2: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Work Area C
Frequently asked questions
What if my project partially meets prescriptive items and partially work-area items?
You cannot mix methods for the same alteration, addition or change of occupancy; choose one method and comply fully with it per § 301.3 .
How do I determine the work area percentage?
Divide the area being altered (the work area as defined in Chapter 2) by the total building area. That percentage determines Level 1/2/3 thresholds (Level 2 ≤ 50%, Level 3 > 50%) .
Is the Performance (Chapter 13) method always allowed?
No. Chapter 13 is not adopted statewide and may be available only by local ordinance. Confirm adoption with your enforcing agency before choosing it .
Can historic buildings use different rules?
Qualified historic buildings may be subject to the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24). Chapter 6 notes historic building provisions and Chapter 12 is reserved; consult the Historic Building Code if applicable .
Does the prescriptive method require structural upgrades?
Prescriptive structural triggers are consistent with the Work Area Method; specific structural provisions are located in Chapters 5 and the structural sections referenced in the CEBC — check Chapter 5 and the structural provisions cited in the alteration chapters .
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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