CEBC · California Existing Building Code
Where are supplementary accessibility requirements for existing buildings?
Appendix B of the California Existing Building Code contains extra accessibility rules for certain existing situations (historic buildings, transit stations, dwelling units). These rules apply only if the local/state adopting ordinance makes Appendix B mandatory; where applied they supplement CBC Chapter 11B and reference specific technical standards (for example, an 8‑inch minimum low‑level platform height).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
Appendix B of the California Existing Building Code (CEBC) contains supplementary accessibility requirements that apply to specific existing-building situations (for example, qualified historic buildings, fixed transportation facilities, and dwelling/sleeping units) — see § B101 through § B104. The provisions in Appendix B are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance; when adopted they supplement the accessibility rules of CBC Chapter 11B and the CEBC accessibility provisions (see § B101.1 and the Appendix preface).
Most important rule: Appendix B supplies additional accessibility requirements for special cases (historic buildings, stations, units) but those requirements only apply where the adopting agency has made the appendix mandatory.
Requirements in detail
Scope and how Appendix B interacts with other accessibility provisions
- Appendix B was added to address accessibility items “not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process” and is intended to supplement Chapters 11A/11B of the CBC where adopted. See § B101.1 and the Appendix introduction.
- CEBC also points to the general accessibility requirement that existing-building accessibility shall comply with CBC Chapter 11B where applicable (see CEBC accessibility scope § 306.A.1).
Key sections (what they cover)
- § B101 — Qualified historic buildings and facilities. Procedures when alterations or change of occupancy affect historically designated properties; contains provisions allowing alternative accessibility measures where compliance would threaten historic significance and requires consultation with the state historic preservation officer or other interested parties.
- § B102 — Fixed transportation facilities and stations. Accessibility requirements for altered or key stations on fixed guideway systems, including requirement for at least one accessible route and platform/vehicle floor coordination.
- § B103 — Dwelling units and sleeping units. Rules about communication features in units altered or added: apply California Building Code Section E104.2 to the altered/added units until the building overall meets the CBC new-construction minimum numbers.
- § B104 — Referenced standards. Lists standards (federal and other) that Appendix B references, including 36 CFR Part 1192 and 49 CFR Part 37, and identifies which Appendix sections reference them.
Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference)
| Decision / value | What it means for the project | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Applicability of Appendix B | Appendix B rules are enforceable only if the adopting jurisdiction/agency references the appendix in their ordinance — otherwise they are optional guidance. | § B (preface) |
| Historic‑building alternative | Where compliance would “threaten or destroy” historic significance, alternative requirements of § 306.7.16 (federal §106 projects) or § 306.7.18 (non‑§106) may be permitted after SHPO review/consultation. | § B101.3, § B101.4 |
| Platform elevation (low‑level platform) | Minimum 8 inches (250 mm) above top of rail for low‑level platforms unless vehicles are boarded from sidewalks/street level (exception). | § B102.2.2 |
| Accessible route to new direct connections | New direct connections from transit to commercial/retail/residential facilities must, “to the maximum extent feasible,” provide an accessible route complying with § 306.7.1 from connection to boarding platforms. | § B102.2.3 |
| Communication features in altered units | When dwelling/sleeping units are altered/added, Section E104.2 (CBC) applies to those units until the building’s total number of units with accessible communication features meets the CBC new‑construction minimum. | § B103.1 |
| Standards referenced for transit | ADA/ABA and DOT guidance such as 36 CFR Part 1192 and 49 CFR Part 37 are included for transport provisions. | Table B104.1 / § B104.1 |
Additional detail and how it works in practice
- The Appendix explicitly ties certain allowances to federal processes: if a qualified historic building is undergoing an undertaking subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the federal Section 106 review governs and the federal process may allow alternative accessibility solutions — see § B101.3. If the project is not a federal Section 106 undertaking, the project sponsor must consult the State Historic Preservation Officer and may be permitted alternatives if SHPO agrees — see § B101.4. Consultation must invite stakeholders (accessibility officials, disability organizations, etc.) per § B101.4.1.
- Transit/station requirements require at least one accessible route from an accessible entrance to the areas necessary for transit use; if technical infeasibility requires the accessible route to reach a paid area, an accessible fare machine must be provided along that route — see § B102.2.1.
Exceptions & special cases
- Appendix B is not automatically enforceable statewide — the state adoption matrix indicates Appendix B may not be adopted by the State in full and may be available for local adoption (see the adoption note and matrix). Confirm your local adopting ordinance to know whether Appendix B is mandatory in your jurisdiction.
- Qualified historic buildings have two distinct paths: (1) federal Section 106 projects follow the federal Section 106 process (see § B101.3) and (2) non‑federal projects must consult SHPO (see § B101.4). Either path may allow alternative accessibility solutions if preserving historic significance would otherwise be threatened.
- For transit platform height: the 8 in (250 mm) minimum for low‑level platforms is required unless the boarding condition is from street/sidewalk level — the Appendix provides that exception (see § B102.2.2).
Common mistakes
- Treating Appendix B as automatically binding statewide. The Appendix can be optional unless the local/adopting agency references it — check the local adopting ordinance before requiring compliance. Do not assume Appendix B rules apply without confirmation.
- Forgetting to coordinate Appendix B provisions with CBC Chapter 11B requirements and CEBC accessibility requirements (e.g., Section 306.A.1), especially when Appendix B cross‑references other CEBC/CBC sections. Always cross‑check the cross‑references cited in Appendix B.
- For historic buildings, skipping required consultation (SHPO, interested persons) before assuming an alternative is allowed. The Appendix requires consultation and documentation when alternatives are used.
- Overlooking referenced federal standards for transit: the Appendix explicitly brings in 36 CFR Part 1192 and 49 CFR Part 37 for specific transit rules; failing to consider those can leave important technical requirements unaddressed.
Worked example — altered commuter rail station platform
Scenario: A city is altering an existing commuter-rail station platform. The existing platform currently measures 4 inches above the top of rail and boarding is from the platform (not street/sidewalk).
- What Appendix B says: § B102.2.2 requires low‑level platforms to be 8 inches (250 mm) minimum above top of rail. The existing 4 in height does not meet the Appendix requirement.
- Steps to comply: Because the project alters the station (an existing facility covered by § B102.2), the agency should either: raise the platform to at least 8 in (250 mm) above top of rail, provide an alternative boarding solution consistent with 36 CFR Part 1192 (if referenced by the jurisdiction), or—if boarding occurs from sidewalks/street level—determine whether the Exception applies. In this case boarding is from the platform, so the Exception does not apply and the platform must be modified or an acceptable alternative provided. § B102.2.2 and the table of referenced standards (Table B104.1) guide the technical approach.
Related provisions
- § B101.1 — General (qualified historic buildings shall comply with § B101.2–B101.5)
- § B101.2 — Definition / applicability for qualified historic buildings (alterations/change of occupancy)
- § B101.3 — Qualified historic buildings subject to Section 106 (federal) — alternative requirements allowed (see § 306.7.16)
- § B101.4 — Qualified historic buildings not subject to Section 106 — consult SHPO; alternatives per § 306.7.18 may be permitted
- § B101.4.1 — Consultation with interested persons (required participants)
- § B101.5 — Display heights for exhibits when alternatives are used (44 in max)
- § B102.1 — General for fixed transportation facilities and stations
- § B102.2, § B102.2.1, § B102.2.2, § B102.2.3 — Accessible route, platform coordination (8 in / 250 mm), and direct connections requirements
- § B103.1 — Communication features for dwelling and sleeping units (reference to CBC E104.2)
- § B104.1 and Table B104.1 — Referenced standards (36 CFR Part 1192; 49 CFR Part 37; CBC references)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
The purpose of Appendix C is to provide voluntary prescriptive alternatives for addressing the retrofit of buildings in high-wind areas. Currently, there are two chapters which deal with the retrofit of gable ends and the fastening of roof decks, Appendix Chapters C1 and C2, respectively. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix D Board of Appeals.
Appendix D contains the provisions for appeal and the establishment of a board of appeals. The provisions include the application for an appeal, the makeup of the board of appeals and the conduct of the appeal process.
Appendix E Temporary Emergency Uses.
Appendix E is intended to provide guidance for designers, engineers, architects and fire and building officials on allowing temporary emergency uses of existing buildings with respect to the minimum code requirements. This appendix is a template or checklist that references the relevant code requirement of concerns.
Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies.
In the process of repair and alteration of existing buildings, based on the nature and the extent of the work, the CEBC might require certain upgrades in the fire-resistance rating of building elements, at which time it becomes critical for the designers and the code
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officials to be able to determine the fire-resistance rating of the existing building elements as part of the overall evaluation for the assessment of the need for improvements. These guidelines are based upon the Guideline on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials published by the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS).
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CBC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
A403 Analysis and Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-45
A404 Prescriptive Measures for Weak Story. . APPENDIX A-47
A405 Materials of Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-48
A406 Construction Documents. . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-48
A407 Quality Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-49
CHAPTER A5 REFERENCED STANDARDS . . . . APPENDIX A-53
A501 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-53
APPENDIX B SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSIBILITY
REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
AND FACILITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-3
B101 Qualified Historic Buildings and Facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-3
B102 Fixed Transportation Facilities and Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-3
B103 Dwelling Units and Sleeping Units. . . . . . APPENDIX B-4
B104 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-4
APPENDIX C GUIDELINES FOR THE WIND RETROFIT
OF EXISTING BUILDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-3
CHAPTER C1 GABLE END RETROFIT FOR
HIGH-WIND AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-3
C101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-3
C102 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-3
C103 Materials of Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-4
C104 Retrofitting Gable End Walls to Enhance Wind Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-5
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CONTENTS
CHAPTER C2 ROOF DECK FASTENING FOR
HIGH-WIND AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-27
C201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-27
C202 Roof Deck Attachment for
Wood Roofs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX C-27
CEBC § 2.2 High relevance — show source text
[BE] B102.2.2 Platform and vehicle floor coordination. Station platforms shall be positioned to coordinate with vehicles in accordance with applicable provisions of 36 CFR Part 1192. Low-level platforms shall be 8 inches (250 mm) minimum above top of rail.
Exception: Where vehicles are boarded from sidewalks or street-level, low-level platforms shall be permitted to be less than 8 inches (250 mm).
[BE] B102.2.3 Direct connections. New direct connections to commercial, retail or residential facilities shall, to the maximum extent feasible, have an accessible route complying with Section 306.7.1 from the point of connection to boarding platforms and
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APPENDIX B—SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
transportation system elements used by the public. Any elements provided to facilitate future direct connections shall be on an accessible route connecting boarding platforms and transportation system elements used by the public.
SECTION B103—DWELLING UNITS AND SLEEPING UNITS
[BE] B103.1 Communication features. Where dwelling units and sleeping units are altered or added, the requirements of Section E104.2 of the California Building Code shall apply only to the units being altered or added until the number of units with accessible communication features complies with the minimum number required for new construction.
SECTION B104—REFERENCED STANDARDS
[BE] B104.1 General. See Table B104.1 for standards that are referenced in various sections of this appendix. Standards are listed by the standard identification with the effective date, standard title, and the section or sections of this appendix that reference the standard.
[BS] TABLE B104.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3 STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTIONS HEREIN REFERENCED Y3.H626 2P National Historic Preservation J101.2, 43/933 Act of 1966
as amended J101.3, 3rd EditionB101.3, B101.4, B101.4.2 IBC—24 International Building Code B102.2.1, B103.1 36 CFR Part 1192 Americans with Disabilities Act Guidelines for
Transportation Vehicles—Rapid Rail Vehicles and SystemsB102.2.2 49 CFR Part 37 Subpart C Alteration of Transportation Facilities by
Public Entities Department of TransportationB102.2 APPENDIX B-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX C
CHAPTER C1 – GABLE END RETROFIT FOR HIGH-WIND AREAS
Not adopted by the State of California (May be available for adoption by local ordinance. See Section 1.1.11.)
CEBC § 3A-9 High relevance — show source text
305 A .1 General. Where used, in-situ load tests shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1708 A of the California Building Code .
SECTION 306 A —ACCESSIBILITY FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
306 A .1 Scope. Accessibility requirements for existing buildings shall comply with the California Building Code, Part 2, Volume 1, Chapter 11B.
SECTION 307 A —SMOKE ALARMS
Shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
SECTION 308 A —CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTION
Shall comply with the California Building Standards Code.
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
SECTION 309 A — RESERVED
SECTION 310A — COMPLIANCE ALTERNATIVES FOR SERVICES/SYSTEMS AND UTILITIES
310A.1 General. The provisions of this section are intended to maintain or increase the current degree of public safety, health and general welfare in existing buildings while permitting repair, alteration, addition and change of occupancy without requiring full compli- ance with California Building Code Chapters 2 through 33, or Sections 302A.3 and 502A through 506A, except where compliance with other provisions of this code is specifically required in this section.
Services/systems and utilities that originate in and pass through or under buildings and are necessary to the operation of the hospital buildings shall meet the structural requirements of this section. Examples of services/systems and utilities include but are not limited to normal power; emergency power; nurse call; fire alarm; communication and data systems; space-heating systems; process load systems; cooling systems; domestic hot and cold water systems; means of egress systems; fire-suppression systems; building drain and sewer systems; and medical gas systems that support basic and supplemental services.
After January 1, 2030, services/systems and utilities for acute care hospital buildings shall not originate in or pass through or under a nonhospital or hospital building unless it has approved performance categories of SPC-3 or higher and NPC-5.
310A.1.1 Services/systems and utilities. Services/systems and utilities that are necessary to the operation of the hospital buildings shall meet the structural requirements of this section, based upon the approved Structural Performance Category (SPC) of the build- ing receiving the services/systems and utilities.
Services from a conforming building shall be permitted to serve a nonconforming building with prior approval of the Office. The services/systems and utilities in the nonconforming building shall be equipped with fail safe valves, switches or other equivalent devices that allow the nonconforming building to be isolated from the conforming building.
Exception: Remodel projects that use available existing services/systems and utilities are exempted from the requirements of this section. The enforcing agency shall be permitted to exempt minor addition, minor alteration and minor remodel projects and proj- ects to upgrade existing services/systems and utilities from the requirements of this section.
310A.1.1.1 Services/systems and utilities for hospital buildings.
CEBC § 1.1.11. High relevance — show source text
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.
Chapter 13 is not adopted by the State of California but may be available for adoption by local ordinance, see Section 1.1.11. See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.
Chapter 14 Relocated or Moved Buildings.
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
CEBC § 1.10.1 High relevance — show source text
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.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
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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).
CEBC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section 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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B SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING
BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Chapters 11A and 11B of the California Building Code contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement
process.
SECTION B101—QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
[BE] B101.1 General. Qualified historic buildings and facilities shall comply with Sections B101.2 through B101.5.
[BE] B101.2 Qualified historic buildings and facilities. These procedures shall apply to buildings and facilities designated as historic structures that undergo alterations or a change of occupancy.
CEBC § 1.11. Medium 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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B SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING
BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Chapters 11A and 11B of the California Building Code contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement
process.
SECTION B101—QUALIFIED HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES
[BE] B101.1 General. Qualified historic buildings and facilities shall comply with Sections B101.2 through B101.5.
[BE] B101.2 Qualified historic buildings and facilities. These procedures shall apply to buildings and facilities designated as historic structures that undergo alterations or a change of occupancy.
[BE] B101.3 Qualified historic buildings and facilities subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Where an alteration or change of occupancy is undertaken to a qualified historic building or facility that is subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the federal agency with jurisdiction over the undertaking shall follow the Section 106 process. Where the state historic preservation officer or Advisory Council on Historic Preservation determines that compliance with the requirements for accessible routes, ramps, entrances, or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or facility, the alternative requirements of Section 306.7.16 for that element are permitted.
[BE] B101.4 Qualified historic buildings and facilities not subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Where an alteration or change of occupancy is undertaken to a qualified historic building or facility that is not subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and the entity undertaking the alterations believes that compliance with the requirements for accessible routes, ramps, entrances or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historic significance of the building or facility, the entity shall consult with the state historic preservation officer. Where the state historic preservation officer determines that compliance with the accessibility requirements for accessible routes, ramps, entrances or toilet facilities would threaten or destroy the historical significance of the building or facility, the alternative requirements of Section 306.7.18 for that element are permitted.
[BE] B101.4.1 Consultation with interested persons. Interested persons shall be invited to participate in the consultation process, including state or local accessibility officials, individuals with disabilities, and organizations representing individuals with disabilities.
California Existing Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
A205 General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-21
A206 Analysis and Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-22
A207 Materials of Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-23
CHAPTER A3 PRESCRIPTIVE PROVISIONS FOR SEISMIC
STRENGTHENING OF CRIPPLE WALLS AND SILL PLATE
ANCHORAGE OF LIGHT, WOOD-FRAME RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-27
A301 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-27
A302 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-27
A303 Structural Weaknesses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-28
A304 Strengthening Requirements . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-28
CHAPTER A4 EARTHQUAKE RISK REDUCTION IN WOOD-FRAME RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS WITH
SOFT, WEAK OR OPEN FRONT WALLS . . . . . APPENDIX A-45
A401 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-45
A402 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-45
A403 Analysis and Design. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-45
A404 Prescriptive Measures for Weak Story. . APPENDIX A-47
A405 Materials of Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-48
A406 Construction Documents. . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-48
A407 Quality Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-49
CHAPTER A5 REFERENCED STANDARDS . . . . APPENDIX A-53
A501 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A-53
APPENDIX B SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSIBILITY
REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
AND FACILITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-3
B101 Qualified Historic Buildings and Facilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-3
B102 Fixed Transportation Facilities and Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-3
B103 Dwelling Units and Sleeping Units. . . . . . APPENDIX B-4
B104 Referenced Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX B-4
APPENDIX C GUIDELINES FOR THE WIND RETROFIT
CEBC § 11B-8 Medium relevance — show source text
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
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5. Signs.
Note: The language in this exception, which refers to the “immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code,” shall permit a reference back to one CBC edition only and is not accumulative to prior editions. 3. Additions or alterations to meet accessibility requirements consisting of one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4: 1. Altering one building entrance. 2. Altering one existing toilet facility. 3. Altering existing elevators. 4. Altering existing steps. 5. Altering existing handrails. 4. Alterations solely for the purpose of barrier removal undertaken pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabil- ities Act (Public Law 101-336, 28 C.F.R. Section 36.304) or the accessibility requirements of this code as those requirements or regulations now exist or are hereafter amended including, but not limited to, one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4: 1. Installing ramps. 2. Making curb cuts in sidewalks and entrance. 3. Repositioning shelves. 4. Rearranging tables, chairs, vending machines, display racks and other furniture. 5. Repositioning telephones. 6. Adding raised markings on elevator control buttons. 7. Installing flashing alarm lights. 8. Widening doors. 9. Installing offset hinges to widen doorways. 10. Eliminating a turnstile or providing an alternative accessible route. 11. Installing accessible door hardware. 12. Installing grab bars in toilet stalls. 13. Rearranging toilet partitions to increase maneuvering space. 14. Insulating lavatory pipes under sinks to prevent burns. 15. Installing a raised toilet seat. 16. Installing a full-length bathroom mirror. 17. Repositioning the paper towel dispenser in a bathroom. 18. Creating designated accessible parking spaces. 19. Removing high-pile, low-density carpeting. 5. Alterations of existing parking lots by resurfacing and/or restriping shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4. 6. The addition or replacement of signs and/or identification devices shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4. 7. _Projects consisting only of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, reroofing,
CEBC § 202.3. Medium relevance — show source text
- Residential dwelling units not required to be accessible in compliance with this code shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 202.3.
11B- 202.3.1 Prohibited reduction in access. An alteration that decreases or has the effect of decreasing the accessibility of a building or facility below the requirements for new construction at the time of the alteration is prohibited.
11B- 202.3.2 Extent of application. An alteration of an existing element, space or area of a building or facility shall not impose a requirement for accessibility greater than required for new construction.
11B-202.3.3 Alteration of single elements. If alterations of single elements, when considered together, amount to an alteration of a room or space in a building or facility, the entire room or space shall be made accessible.
11B- 202.4 Path of travel requirements in alterations, additions and structural repairs. When alterations or additions are made to existing buildings or facilities, an accessible path of travel to the specific area of alteration or addition shall be provided. The primary accessible path of travel shall include:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
5. Signs.
Exceptions:
1. Residential dwelling units shall comply with Section 11B-233.3.4.2. 2. If the following elements of a path of travel have been constructed or altered in compliance with the accessibility require- ments of the immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code, it shall not be required to retrofit such elements to reflect the incremental changes in this code solely because of an alteration to an area served by those elements of the path of travel:
1. A primary entrance to the building or facility, 2. Toilet and bathing facilities serving the area, 3. Drinking fountains serving the area,
4. Public telephones serving the area, and
11B-8 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
5. Signs.
Note: The language in this exception, which refers to the “immediately preceding edition of the California Building Code,” shall permit a reference back to one CBC edition only and is not accumulative to prior editions. 3. Additions or alterations to meet accessibility requirements consisting of one or more of the following items shall be limited to the actual scope of work of the project and shall not be required to comply with Section 11B-202.4: 1. Altering one building entrance. 2. Altering one existing toilet facility. 3. Altering existing elevators. 4. Altering existing steps. 5. Altering existing handrails. 4. Alterations solely for the purpose of barrier removal undertaken pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabil- _ities Act (Public Law 101-336, 28 C.F.R. Section 36.
CBC § 301 Medium 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.
Frequently asked questions
Who decides whether Appendix B applies in my city?
The local adopting ordinance (or the state adoption matrix for state agencies) determines whether Appendix B is mandatory; Appendix B notes it is “not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.” Confirm with your local building department.
If my project is in a historic building, can I avoid all accessibility upgrades?
No. Appendix B requires that qualified historic buildings follow the consultation procedures; where compliance would “threaten or destroy” historic significance, alternative solutions in § 306.7.16 or § 306.7.18 may be permitted after SHPO or federal Section 106 review — but alternatives are limited and must be documented.
Does Appendix B replace CBC Chapter 11B?
No. Appendix B supplements the CBC/CEBC accessibility rules for specific circumstances; it does not replace Chapter 11B. The CEBC directs existing‑building accessibility to comply with CBC Chapter 11B in applicable cases (see § 306.A.1).
What is the minimum low‑level platform height required by Appendix B?
Low‑level platforms must be 8 inches (250 mm) minimum above top of rail, unless boarding is from sidewalks/street level (exception). § B102.2.2.
Where are the federal transit/ADA technical rules referenced?
Appendix B lists and references 36 CFR Part 1192 and 49 CFR Part 37 for transportation provisions (see Table B104.1 and § B104.1). Use those federal standards for the detailed vehicle/platform coordination and other transit specifics.
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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Where are referenced standards for temporary emergency uses listed?
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Appendices B, D, E and Resource A — accessibility, appeals, emergency uses and fire ratings
California Existing Building Code