CEBC · California Existing Building Code

When do additions or replacements of exterior wall coverings trigger code upgrades?

If you’re replacing or adding exterior cladding that spans two or more adjacent stories and covers more than 15% of any side of your building, the California Existing Building Code requires that the work meet new‑construction standards (CBC Ch.14 & 26). Also, you generally cannot add combustible cladding to an unsprinklered high‑rise. Check these specific CEBC sections (§309.2 and §309.2.1) early in project planning and verify measurements with your local building official.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

If you add or replace an exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope that spans two or more contiguous stories and makes up more than 15 percent of the total wall area on any side of the building, the materials and methods used for that work must meet the requirements for new construction in CBC Chapters 14 and 26 (i.e., you must “upgrade” to the new-construction rules). This rule is stated in § 309.2 of the CEBC.

Separately, combustible exterior coverings or envelopes may not be added to an existing high‑rise building unless the building is protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system — see § 309.2.1.

The single most important rule: If the new or replacement exterior covering affects two or more contiguous stories and is >15% of the wall area on any side, treat it like new construction per CBC Chapters 14 and 26 (and combustible coverings on unsprinklered high‑rises are not allowed).

Requirements in detail

Scope and trigger test

  • Work covered: additions or replacements of exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope on an existing building. § 309.1 and § 309.2 set the scope and trigger.
  • Upgrade is required when BOTH conditions are met:
    • Vertical extent: the change involves two or more contiguous stories (bolded term). § 309.2.
    • Area extent: the change comprises more than 15 percent of the total wall area on any side of the building. § 309.2.
  • If the upgrade is triggered, the materials and methods must comply with the requirements for new construction in CBC Chapter 14 and Chapter 26, as required by § 309.2.

Special prohibition for combustible coverings on high‑rises

  • If the proposed exterior wall covering or envelope is combustible, it shall not be added to an existing high‑rise building that is not protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system. See § 309.2.1.

Decision-relevant dimensions (quick reference table)

Decision dimension Key threshold / value When upgrade or restriction applies Code reference
Vertical extent Two or more contiguous stories Required if true and area threshold also met § 309.2
Area extent More than 15% of total wall area on any side Required if true and vertical extent also met § 309.2
Combustibility + building type Combustible exterior covering on high‑rise Prohibited unless building is protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system § 309.2.1
Exempt material Water‑resistive barriers installed per CBC § 1402.6 Not counted toward the trigger (exception) § 309.2 (Exceptions)
Single‑story small work Single story and < 15% of wall area Exception — does not trigger upgrade § 309.2 (Exceptions)

How to apply the test (practical steps)

  1. Identify the side(s) of the building where work will occur. Measure total wall area on that side (include fenestration openings as directed locally). See CEBC scope: § 309.2.
  2. Compute area of the covering/envelope being added or replaced on that same side.
  3. Determine whether the work spans two or more contiguous stories. “Contiguous” means vertically adjacent stories without a full horizontal separation. § 309.2.
  4. If the work is on two+ contiguous stories AND is >15% of that side’s wall area → apply CBC Chapter 14 & 26 new‑construction requirements. § 309.2.
  5. If the material is combustible and the building is a high‑rise that is not fully sprinklered, the work is not permitted under § 309.2.1 unless sprinklers are installed throughout.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Exception — single‑story, small area: If the added/replaced material is located on a single story and is less than 15 percent of the wall area on any side, the upgrade requirement does not apply. § 309.2 (Exception 1).
  • Exception — water‑resistive barriers: Water‑resistive barriers installed in accordance with CBC § 1402.6 are excluded from the area calculation/upgrade trigger. § 309.2 (Exception 2).
  • Sprinkler condition: The § 309.2.1 prohibition applies specifically to combustible exterior wall coverings/envelopes on existing high‑rise buildings not protected throughout by automatic sprinklers. If the covering is noncombustible, § 309.2.1’s prohibition does not apply (but § 309.2 test may still trigger upgrades).
  • CEBC applicability: Section 309 applies to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocations and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method — so the test is broadly applicable. § 309.1.

Common mistakes

  • Treating any replacement as automatically triggering full new‑construction requirements. Only work that meets both the two‑story and >15% tests triggers § 309.2.
  • Miscomputing the “total wall area on any side” (measure the same side as the work; don’t combine sides). § 309.2 describes the percent of total wall area on any side.
  • Forgetting the contiguous requirement — non‑contiguous patches on separate stories do not meet the “two contiguous stories” test. § 309.2.
  • Overlooking the water‑resistive barrier exception (CBC § 1402.6) or incorrectly classifying work under that exception. § 309.2 (Exception 2).
  • Missing the combustible high‑rise prohibition: adding combustible cladding to an unsprinklered high‑rise is not permitted under § 309.2.1, regardless of the percent test.

Worked example

Scenario: A 4‑story office building. On the west elevation the total wall area is 3,000 ft². The owner wants to replace the cladding on the 2nd and 3rd floors (two contiguous stories). The replacement area on that side is 550 ft². The cladding is combustible. The building is not a high‑rise.

Step‑by‑step:

  • Vertical extent: work involves two contiguous stories → meets the vertical test. § 309.2.
  • Area extent: 550 ft² / 3,000 ft² = 18.3%, which is >15% → meets the area test. § 309.2.
  • Result: Because both tests are met, the materials and methods must comply with CBC Chapters 14 and 26 (i.e., new‑construction requirements apply). § 309.2.

Additional check: The cladding is combustible but the building is not a high‑rise, so § 309.2.1 does not prohibit the work — however, if the building were a high‑rise and it lacked sprinklers throughout, adding combustible cladding would be disallowed. § 309.2.1.

Related provisions (CEBC)

  • § 309.1 — General applicability of Section 309 (applies to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocations, changes of occupancy).
  • § 309.2 — Additions and replacements: two‑story + >15% trigger and new‑construction compliance requirement.
  • § 309.2.1 — Automatic sprinkler systems: combustible coverings on unsprinklered high‑rises prohibited.
  • CEBC cross‑reference to CBC § 1402.6 — water‑resistive barrier exception for area/counting under § 309.2 (see exceptions).

Code references

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

  • CEBC § 308.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    308.2.1 Carbon monoxide detection in existing Group E occupancy buildings. Where the new addition includes any of the conditions identified in the California Fire Code Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in accordance with Section 915 of the California Fire Code. No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale, or sell any carbon monoxide device in the State of California unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

    SECTION 309—ADDITIONS AND REPLACEMENTS OF EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND EXTERIOR WALL ENVELOPES

    309.1 General. The provisions of Section 309 apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocations of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method.

    309.2 Additions and replacements. Where an exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope is added or replaced, the materials and methods used shall comply with the requirements for new construction in Chapter 14 and Chapter 26 of the California Building Code if the added or replaced exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope involves two or more contiguous stories and comprises more than 15 percent of the total wall area on any side of the building.

    309.2.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Combustible exterior wall covering or combustible exterior wall envelopes shall not be added to an existing high-rise building that is not protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.

    Exceptions:

    1. Where such material is located on a single story and is less than 15 percent of the wall area on any side of the building.
    2. Water-resistive barriers installed in accordance with Section 1402.6 of the California Building Code .

    SECTION 310 [OSHPD 1R, 2 AND 5]—SERVICES/SYSTEMS AND UTILITIES

    310.1 Services/systems and utilities. Services/systems and utilities shall only originate in, pass through or under structures which are under the jurisdiction of the Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).

    SECTION 311 [OSHPD 1R, 2 AND 5]—MEANS OF EGRESS

    311.1 General. Means of egress through existing buildings shall be in accordance with the California Building Code, except as modified in this section.

    311.1.1 Jurisdiction. Means of egress shall only pass through buildings that are under the jurisdiction of the Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD).

    SECTION 312 [OSHPD 1R]—HOSPITAL SPC AND FREESTANDING BUILDINGS REMOVED FROM

    GENERAL ACUTE CARE SERVICE REMAINING UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF OSHPD

    312.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to hospital SPC and freestanding buildings that have been removed from Acute Care Service in accordance with California Existing Building Code Section 312A but remain under the jurisdiction of the Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD). These buildings may house various occupancies, uses and functions in accordance with this section. The requirements for those various occupancies, uses and functions shall be in accordance with the provisions of the California Building Standards Code, specific to each. The designation OSHPD 1R shall be limited to provisions applicable to the overall hospital SPC or freestanding building.

  • CEBC § 307.1 High relevance — show source text

    [HCD 1-AC] Accessibility requirements for covered multifamily dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code, are promulgated under HCD authority and are located in Chapter 11A of the California Building Code.

    SECTION 307—SMOKE ALARMS

    307.1 Smoke alarms. Where an alteration, addition, change of occupancy or relocation of a building is made to an existing building or structure of a Group R and I-1 occupancy, the existing building shall be provided with smoke alarms in accordance with the California Fire Code or Section R310 of the California Residential Code .

    Exception: Work classified as Level 1 Alterations in accordance with Chapter 7.

    SECTION 308—CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTION

    308.1 Carbon monoxide detection. Where an addition, alteration, change of occupancy or relocation of a building is made to an existing building, the existing building shall be provided with carbon monoxide detection in accordance with the California Fire Code or Section R311 of the California Residential Code .

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    PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    308.2 Carbon monoxide alarms in existing portions of a building. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17926, carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in all existing Group R buildings, as required in Section 915 of the California Building Code or Section R315 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.

    308.2.1 Carbon monoxide detection in existing Group E occupancy buildings. Where the new addition includes any of the conditions identified in the California Fire Code Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in accordance with Section 915 of the California Fire Code. No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale, or sell any carbon monoxide device in the State of California unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

    SECTION 309—ADDITIONS AND REPLACEMENTS OF EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND EXTERIOR WALL ENVELOPES

    309.1 General. The provisions of Section 309 apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocations of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method.

    309.2 Additions and replacements. Where an exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope is added or replaced, the materials and methods used shall comply with the requirements for new construction in Chapter 14 and Chapter 26 of the California Building Code if the added or replaced exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope involves two or more contiguous stories and comprises more than 15 percent of the total wall area on any side of the building.

    309.2.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Combustible exterior wall covering or combustible exterior wall envelopes shall not be added to an existing high-rise building that is not protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.

    Exceptions:

    1. Where such material is located on a single story and is less than 15 percent of the wall area on any side of the building.
    2. Water-resistive barriers installed in accordance with Section 1402.6 of the California Building Code .
  • CEBC § 3-4 High relevance — show source text

    303 Storm Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

    304 Structural Design Loads and Evaluation and Design Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

    305 In-Situ Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    306 Accessibility for Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    307 Smoke Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    308 Carbon Monoxide Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    309 Additions and Replacements of Exterior Wall Coverings and Exterior Wall Envelopes . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    310 [OSHPD 1R, 2 and 5] Services/Systems and Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    311 [OSHPD 1R, 2 and 5] Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    312 [OSHPD 1R] Hospital SPC and Freestanding Buildings Removed from General Acute Care Service Remaining under the Jurisdiction of OSHPD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    313 [SFM] Existing Group R-1 and Group R-2 Occupancies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

    314 [SFM] Existing High-Rise Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-11

    315 [SFM] Existing Group I Occupancies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13

    316 [SFM] Existing Group L Occupancies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14

    317 [BSC, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Earthquake Evaluation and Design for Retrofit of Existing Buildings. . . . . . . . . .3-16

    318 [BSC, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18

    319 [BSC, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Seismic Criteria Selection for Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18

    320 [BSC, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Method A. . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-21

  • CEBC § 8.2.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    RESOURCE A-120 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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    Accessibility 1.8.2.1.2, 1.9.1, 104.2.4, 306, 801.1, 901.2, 1101.2, 1508, Appendix B Additions Chapter 11, 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 104.3, 104.3.1, 104.2.4.1, 106.2.3, 109.3.3, 113.2, 115.5, 202, 301.1, 301.3, 302.2, 302.2.1, 303.2, 304.1, 304.2, 307.1, 308.1, 309, 501.1, 502, 601.1, 606, 1301.1, 1301.1.1, 1302.1, 1302.1.3, 1303.1, 1304.1.1, 1304.1.3, 1501.3, 1505.2 Administration Chapter 1 Alterations Chapter 7, Chapter 8, Chapter 9, 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 101.6, 104.3, 104.3.1, 104.3.2, 104.2.4.1, 105.1.1, 105.1.2, 105.2.2, 105.2.3, 106.2.3, 106.2.6, 108.5, 110.2, 113.2, 115.5, 202, 301.1, 301.3, 302.2, 302.2.1, 302.4, 304, 307.1, 308.1, 309.1, 501.1, 501.1.1, 502.1, 502.3, 502.4, 503, 504.1, 601.1, 602, 603, 604, 1101.3, 1103.1, 1103.2, 1301.1, 1301.1.1, 1302.1, 1302.1.4, 1302.1.6, 1303.1, 1304.1.1, 1304.1.3, 1307.1.1, 1401.2, 1501.3, 1504.1, 1505.2, A105.2, A304.1.1, A402.1, A403.2 Level 1 Chapter 7, 104.3.2, 602, 603.2, 604.2, 801.2 Level 2 Chapter 8, 106.2.3, 505.2, 603 Level 3 Chapter 9, 106.2.3, 604, 1011.4 Alternative Materials, Design and Methods of Construction 104.2.3 Ambulatory Care Facility 202, 302.2.1, 406.1.2, 408.3, 501.3, 503.15, 503.17,

  • CEBC § 1-31 High relevance — show source text

    114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    115 Unsafe Structures and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    116 Emergency Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32

    117 Demolition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

    201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

    202 General Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

    CHAPTER 3 PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE

    METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

    301 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

    302 General Provisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

    303 Storm Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

    304 Structural Design Loads and Evaluation and Design Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

    305 In-Situ Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    306 Accessibility for Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    307 Smoke Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    308 Carbon Monoxide Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    309 Additions and Replacements of Exterior Wall Coverings and Exterior Wall Envelopes . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    310 [OSHPD 1R, 2 and 5] Services/Systems and Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    311 [OSHPD 1R, 2 and 5] Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

  • CEBC § 503.3 High relevance — show source text

    [BS] 503.3 Existing structural elements carrying gravity load. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an alteration causes an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the alteration shall be shown to have the capacity to resist the applicable design dead, live and snow loads including snow drift effects required by the California Building Code for new structures.

    Exceptions:

    1. Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the altered building complies with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the California Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
    2. Buildings in which the increased dead load is due entirely to the addition of a second layer of roof covering weighing 3 pounds per square foot (0.1437 kN/m [2] ) or less over an existing single layer of roof covering. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Excep- tion 2 is not permitted.

    [BS] 503.4 Existing structural elements carrying lateral load. Except as permitted by Section 503.13, where the alteration increases design lateral loads, results in a prohibited structural irregularity as defined in ASCE 7, or decreases the capacity of any existing lateral load-carrying structural element, the lateral force-resisting system of the altered building or structure shall meet the requirements of Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.2 of this code.

    Exceptions:

    1. Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the alteration considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the alteration ignored shall be permitted to remain

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    PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE METHOD

    unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 or 304.3.2 of this code. The same methodology shall be used for the altered and unaltered structures. For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction. When calculating demandcapacity ratios for wind, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code or the code wind forces in effect at the time. When calculating demand-capacity ratios for earthquake, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 304.3.1 or Section 304.3.2, Item 1 or 3, or the full or reduced seismic forces in effect at the time.

  • CEBC § 0.78 Medium relevance — show source text

    08| |Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse|Waffle-grid wallse| |6|2|4|3|0.78|0.78|0.70|0.48| |6|3|4|4|0.78|0.78|0.49|0.25| |6|2|5|3|0.78|0.78|0.46|0.23| |6|3|5|4|0.78|0.78|0.24|0.16| |8|2|4|3|0.78|0.78|0.70|0.47| |8|3|4|5|0.78|0.78|0.47|0.24| |8|2|5|3|0.78|0.78|0.45|0.23| |8|4|4|6|0.78|0.78|0.36|0.18| |8|3|5|5|0.78|0.78|0.23|0.16| |8|4|5|6|0.78|0.78|0.18|0.13| |Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse|Screen-grid wallse| |6|2|4|3|0.93|0.93|0.70|0.48| |6|3|4|4|0.93|0.93|0.49|0.25| |6|2|5|3|0.93|0.93|0.46|0.23| |6|3|5|4|0.93|0.93|0.24|0.16| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1,000 pounds per square inch = 6.895 MPa.
    a. See Note e to Table R608.7.1.1(1) for application of adjustment factors in this table.
    b. Yield strength in pounds per square inch of vertical wall reinforcement at ends of solid wall segments.
    c. Values are based on concrete with a specified compressive strength,f’c, of 2,500 psi. Where concrete with_f’c_ of not less than 3,000 psi is used, values in shaded cells are
    permitted to be decreased by multiplying by 0.91.
    d. Horizontal and vertical shear reinforcement shall be provided in accordance with Section R608.7.2.2.
    e. Each end of each solid wall segment shall have rectangular flanges. In the through-the-wall dimension, the flange shall be not less than 51/2 inches for 6-inch-nominal waffle-
    and screen-grid walls, and not less than 71/2 inches for 8-inch-nominal waffle-grid walls. In the in-plane dimension, flanges shall be long enough to accommodate the vertical
    reinforcement required by the layout detail selected from Figure R608.7.1.1(2) and provide the cover required by Section R608.5.4.1.

  • CEBC § 506.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    506.4, 702.4, 702.5, 702.5.1, 702.6 Emergency Power 804.6.5, 1305.2.15.1 Energy 302.2, 702.7, 708, 809, 907, 1104 Engineer (see Registered Design Professional) Equipment or Fixture 202 Existing (see Building) Existing Building 202 Existing Structure 202 Exit 504.1.4, 802.2.1, 802.4, 802.4.1, 804, 903.1, 903.3, 905.2, 905.3, 1011.5, 1011.5.1, Table 1011.5, 1011.8.2, 1102.2, 1305.2.3.2, 1305.2.6, 1305.2.10.1, 1305.2.11, 1305.2.11.1, 1305.2.12, 1305.2.13, 1305.2.15.1, Table 1305.2.15, Table 1306.1,

    A402 Exit, Horizontal 503.15, 804.10, 1305.2.3.1 Exterior Wall Covering 202 Addition and replacement 309 Automatic sprinkler systems 309.2.1 Exterior Wall Envelope 202 Addition and replacement 309 Automatic sprinkler systems 309.2.1

    Fire Alarm Systems 803.4, 904.2, 1011.2.2,

    1305.2.9 Fire Escapes 504, 802.2.1, 804.4.1.2, 1305.2.11, 1305.2.11.1 Fire Protection 106.2.2, 202, 403, 703, 801.3, 803, 804.7.1, 804.7.2, 904, 1001.2, 1004, 1011.1, 1011.2, 1011.2.1, 1011.2.2, 1011.8.4, 1102.3, 1501.2.1, 1501.3, 1509 Fire Ratings 804.7.1, 804.7.2, 1011.6.1, 1011.6.1.1, 1011.6.3, 1011.7, 1011.7.1, 1011.7.2, 1011.7.3, 1011.8.2, 1011.8.3, 1011.8.4, 1302.1.2, 1305.2.3.2, 1305.2.3.3, 1305.2.4, 1305.2.4.1, 1305.2.5, 1305.2.5.1, 1305.2.6, 1305.2.16.1, Table 1306.1,

    Resource A

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    INDEX

  • CEBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    See Tables R608.6(1), R608.6(2) and R608.6(3).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    DR = Design Required.
    a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an effective wind area of
    10 square feet, topographic factor,Kzt, equal to 1.0, and Risk Category II.
    b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
    c. See Section R608.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
    d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the height of the wall in inches from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the above-grade wall.
    e. Interpolation is not permitted. For intermediate values of basic wind speed, heights of stem wall and above-grade wall, and design lateral soil load, use next higher value.
    f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table as indicated by shaded cells, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000
    psi is permitted.
    g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum spacings shown are
    the values calculated for the specified bar size. In waffle and screen-grid walls where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the wall
    shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches such as, 12, 24, 36 and 48, that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement with a yield
    strength of less than 60,000 psi and bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R608.5.4.7 and Table R608.5.4(2).
    h. Height of stem wall is the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground.
    i. Where the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground is equal to or greater than 4 feet, the stem wall shall be laterally supported at the top
    and bottom before backfilling. Where the wall is designed and constructed to be continuous with the above-grade wall, temporary supports bracing the top of the stem wall
    shall remain in place until the above-grade wall is laterally supported at the top by floor or roof construction.
    j. See Table R608.3 for tolerances on nominal thicknesses, and minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores for waffle-and screen-grid
    walls.
    k. Tabulated values are applicable to construction where gravity loads bear on top of wall, and conditions where gravity loads from floor construction are transferred to wall
    from a wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. See Tables R608.6(1), R608.6(2) and R608.6(3).|

    6-122 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

  • CEBC § 309.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |309.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |310 – 311|||||||||||X|X|||X|||||||||| |312|||||||||||X|||||||||||||| |313 – 316|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |317 – 322|X|||||||X|X|||||||||||||||| |323||||||||X|X||||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3-1

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

    3-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    3 PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 3 explains the three compliance options for alterations and additions available in the code. In addition, this chapter also lays out the methods to be used for seismic design and evaluation throughout this code. Finally, this chapter clarifies that provisions in other I-Codes related to repairs, alterations, additions, relocation and changes of occupancy must also be addressed unless they conflict with this code. In that case, this code takes precedence.

    SECTION 301—ADMINISTRATION

    301.1 Applicability. The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with Section 301.2, 301.3 or 301.4. The provisions of Sections 302 through 309 shall apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocation of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5] Section 301.4 not permitted by OSHPD.

    Exceptions: 1. Existing state-owned structures. [BSC] The repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition or relocation of all existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Sections 317 through 322 as the minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing state-owned structures, including buildings owned by the University of California, the California State University or the Judicial Council. The provisions of Sections 317 through 322 may be adopted by a local jurisdiction for earthquake evaluation and design for retrofit of existing buildings. 2. Public school buildings [DSA-SS] The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for the rehabilitation of existing buildings for use as public school buildings under the jurisdiction of the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety (DSA-SS, refer to Section 1.9.2.1) where required by Sections 4-307 and 4-309(c) of the California Administrative Code. The provisions of Sections 317 through 323 also establish minimum standards for earthquake evaluation and design for rehabilitation of existing public school buildings currently under the jurisdiction of DSA-SS. 3. _**Community college buildings.

  • CEBC § 1306.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    1306.1

    Dangerous Nonstructural 115.1, 116.1 Structural 104.4, 114.1, 117.1, 202,

    302.1

    Deferred Submittal 106.3.4, 106.6, 202 Definitions 202 Demolition 101.5, 104.3, 106.2.6, 108.5, 113.2, 115.5, 117, 1501.6, 1501.6.1, 1501.7, 1502.1, 1503.1, 1504.1, 1505.2 Department of Building Safety 104.2.4, 105.3, 109.3.8 Disproportionate Earthquake Damage 202, 405.2.2, 502.2

    Egress (see Means of Egress) Electrical A102.1, 105.1, 105.1.1, 105.2, 108.3, 109.3.4, 202, 406, 801.3, 801.4, 806, 1007, 1101.2 Elevator 905.4, 1011.8.3, 1102.2, 1305.2.14, 1305.2.14.1, Table 1305.2.14, Table 1306.1 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings 202, 505, 506.4, 702.4, 702.5, 702.5.1, 702.6 Emergency Power 804.6.5, 1305.2.15.1 Energy 302.2, 702.7, 708, 809, 907, 1104 Engineer (see Registered Design Professional) Equipment or Fixture 202 Existing (see Building) Existing Building 202 Existing Structure 202 Exit 504.1.4, 802.2.1, 802.4, 802.4.1, 804, 903.1, 903.3, 905.2, 905.3, 1011.5, 1011.5.1, Table 1011.5, 1011.8.2, 1102.2, 1305.2.3.2, 1305.2.6, 1305.2.10.1, 1305.2.11, 1305.2.11.1, 1305.2.12, 1305.2.13, 1305.2.15.1, Table 1305.2.15, Table 1306.1,

    A402 Exit, Horizontal 503.15, 804.10, 1305.2.3.1 Exterior Wall Covering 202 Addition and replacement 309 Automatic sprinkler systems 309.2.1 Exterior Wall Envelope 202 Addition and replacement 309 Automatic sprinkler systems 309.2.1

    Fire Alarm Systems 803.4, 904.2, 1011.2.2,

Frequently asked questions

When does a repair (not replacement) trigger these rules?

If the work is a simple repair that does not constitute replacing the exterior wall covering/envelope over the measured area and stories, the § 309.2 test generally does not apply. The CEBC applies § 309 to additions and replacements; determine whether the scope is classified as a repair vs. replacement per the local enforcement official and CEBC definitions.

How do I measure “total wall area on any side”?

Measure the vertical face area of that building side (height × length) and subtract permitted openings as required by the local code official. Use that side area as the denominator when calculating the percent replaced or added — this follows the percent test language in § 309.2.

Do window replacements count toward the 15%?

Window replacements alone are typically addressed elsewhere (alterations chapters). For the § 309.2 exterior covering/envelope test, count the area of the covering/envelope being added or replaced on the wall face. Confirm with your local building official whether specific fenestration work should be included in your area calculation.

Is applying a new coat of paint an “addition or replacement”?

A simple repaint that is cosmetic and confined to the same material typically is not treated as adding/replacing the exterior wall covering that would trigger § 309.2. However, replacing cladding panels, adding new siding, or re‑skinning the wall likely is. Confirm classification with the authority having jurisdiction.

If my project triggers compliance with Chapters 14 & 26, what happens next?

If § 309.2 applies, you must use materials and methods that meet the new‑construction requirements in CBC Chapters 14 and 26 for the affected portion of the exterior wall. Coordinate with your designer and the local building department for plan review requirements and the specific CBC provisions that apply.

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