CEBC · California Existing Building Code
How do referenced standards become part of the CEBC?
When the CEBC cites an outside standard it does not automatically import the entire document; the CEBC makes the listed standards enforceable only “to the prescribed extent” the code cites them — check Chapter 16 for the exact edition and scope, and remember the CEBC itself controls if there’s any conflict (see § 102.4 and §§ 102.4.1–102.4.2).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Existing Building Code makes the codes and standards referenced in the code an enforceable part of the CEBC to the prescribed extent of each reference. The controlling rule is § 102.4, which says referenced documents listed in Chapter 16 are considered part of the CEBC (to the extent each is cited) and are further governed by § 102.4.1 and § 102.4.2.
The single most important rule: referenced standards listed in Chapter 16 become enforceable as part of the CEBC only to the specific extent each CEBC provision cites them.
Requirements in detail
What is a “referenced standard” and where is it listed?
- Referenced standard — any external code, standard or product/installation standard that the CEBC cites by name and (typically) edition/date.
- Where listed — the CEBC directs users to Chapter 16 (the CEBC table of referenced standards) for the specific list and identification of those standards.
How the standard is incorporated (key dimensions)
| Decision dimension | What the CEBC says (values) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Location of the list | Standards are listed in Chapter 16 (Referenced Standards). | § 102.4 + Chapter 16 (Referenced Standards) |
| Extent of incorporation | Only to the prescribed extent that each CEBC provision cites the standard — not automatically in full. | § 102.4 |
| Conflict between CEBC and standard | CEBC governs where a conflict occurs. The code’s provisions control. | § 102.4.1 |
| Overlap in subject matter | If the referenced standard covers subject matter within the CEBC’s scope, the CEBC takes precedence. | § 102.4.2 |
| Identification detail | Chapter 16 generally identifies promulgator, standard title and the CEBC sections that reference it (often including edition/date). | Chapter 16 tables (see examples in the CEBC) |
What “to the prescribed extent” means in practice
- The CEBC will cite a standard in a specific section (for example: “comply with Standard X for [this particular test or detail]”). Only the portions of the standard that are directly referenced or needed to satisfy that CEBC citation are enforceable. The whole standard is not automatically an unqualified part of the CEBC unless the code text explicitly imports it in full. § 102.4 explains this incorporation-by-reference mechanism.
Exceptions & special cases
- Exception when a listing or manufacturer’s listing is at odds with enforcement: where enforcing a CEBC provision would violate the conditions of a product or equipment listing, the listing’s conditions govern. (The CEBC includes this limited exception in the applicability discussion.)
- When a referenced standard itself cites other codes/standards, the CEBC requires those internal references to be handled as the code specifies (see Chapter 16 listings and the code conflict/substitution rules). Chapter 16 commonly identifies the exact edition and notes amendments or substitutions where applicable.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a referenced standard is enforceable in its entirety regardless of how the CEBC cites it. (Wrong — only the “prescribed extent” is enforceable. § 102.4.)
- Not checking Chapter 16 for the exact edition/date or scope of the referenced standard; the CEBC’s table shows the specific identification that matters for enforcement.
- Believing a referenced standard can override a CEBC requirement — the CEBC controls on conflict per § 102.4.1.
- Treating secondary references inside a referenced standard as automatically part of the CEBC without verifying whether the CEBC or Chapter 16 explicitly adopts them. (Chapter 16 is the operative list.)
Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers
Situation: A CEBC alteration section requires that a fire-resistance-rated wall “meet the test method in Standard A, 2018 edition, as listed in Chapter 16.” Standard A — in its full text — allows reducing the wall rating by 25% when certain conditions are present.
Step-by-step:
- Check Chapter 16 to confirm that Standard A, 2018 is the edition the CEBC cites. If Chapter 16 lists Standard A, 2018, that is the listed reference that applies.
- Read the CEBC provision that cited Standard A: does the CEBC cite the test method only, or does it adopt the standard’s allowance for a 25% reduction? If the CEBC’s text says only “use Standard A test method” then the CEBC requirement controls the required rating and the standard’s reduction is usable only if the CEBC citation allows it. § 102.4 says the standard is enforceable only to the prescribed extent.
- If the CEBC also contains a clear numeric requirement (for example, “provide a 2‑hour fire barrier”) that requirement stands. If Standard A would permit a 25% reduction (i.e., permit a 1.5‑hour equivalent), § 102.4.1 says the CEBC provision controls and the 2‑hour requirement must be met unless the CEBC text explicitly authorizes the reduction.
Result: The designer must meet the CEBC’s 2‑hour requirement unless the CEBC expressly incorporated the standard’s 25% reduction for that application in the CEBC text or Chapter 16 listing.
Related provisions
- § 102.3 — Application of references (helps interpret internal code references).
- § 102.5 — Subjects not regulated by this code (how other nationally recognized standards may be used as prima facie evidence).
- Chapter 16 (Referenced Standards) — the formal list that identifies each referenced code/standard and the CEBC sections that cite it.
- § 102.4.1 — Conflicts: CEBC provisions govern where conflicts occur.
- § 102.4.2 — When referenced standards cover subject matter within the scope of the CEBC, the CEBC takes precedence.
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 5 Special Building Construction Regulations.
The regulations in Chapter 5 establish minimum standards for the location, design and construction of buildings and structures based on construction within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Area.
The construction provisions of Chapter 5 are intended to supplement the requirements of the California Building Code and Califor- nia Residential Code and address mitigation of the unique hazards posed to buildings by wildfire and to reduce the hazards of building fires spreading to wildland fuels. This is accomplished by requiring ignition-resistant construction materials.
Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements.
Chapter 6 contains additional requirements for development and construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and areas designated by the State Fire Marshal as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). While many of these provisions are found in Title 14 and Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, they are replicated here for the code user. The local jurisdiction has the authority to apply the same regulations to LRA when the regulations are adopted by local ordinance.
The requirements in this chapter reference the process for adoption of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA; criteria for evaluating existing subdivisions that are at significant fire risk and are without an adequate secondary egress; and criteria for fire safety provisions required in the Safety Element of a city or county General Plan.
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The chapter includes mitigation strategies to reduce the hazards of fire originating within a structure spreading to wildland and fire originating in wildland spreading to structures.
Chapter 7 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 7 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 6 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 General Requirements.
Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire-protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildlandurban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.
Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan.
Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.
Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework.
CEBC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
The chapter includes mitigation strategies to reduce the hazards of fire originating within a structure spreading to wildland and fire originating in wildland spreading to structures.
Chapter 7 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 7 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 6 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 General Requirements.
Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire-protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildlandurban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.
Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan.
Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.
Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework.
Appendix C contains a preliminary Community WUI Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework as a suggested methodology to begin to support communities at risk in the identification of their unique hazards and to provide common metrics for comparisons between communities. This preliminary framework includes information on community size, population and fuels; on notification and evacuation; and on the community infrastructure and firefighting response potential. Aspects of this framework may already be included in various community- level documents, such as Community Wildfire Protection Plans or evacuation plans. Development of a standard framework will (1) consolidate relevant WUI fire hazard and planning information in one place, and (2) allow for cross-community comparisons.
The evaluation required to implement this framework will support prefire hazard assessment and during-fire response operations. An increased understanding of fire evacuation, fire structural response and fire defensive action relationships is needed to assess the over- all community WUI fire hazard. The quantification of these relationships will enable communities to optimize the community-level response to WUI fire hazards in a more integrated approach and result in increased life safety and reduced losses.
Appendix D Model Ordinance for Fire Hazard Severity Zone Adoption.
Appendix D is an informational appendix that is a sample ordinance designed as guidance for a city, county, city and county, or fire district to establish and designate fire hazard severity zones within their jurisdiction.
Appendix E Reserved.
Appendix F Characteristics of Fire-Smart Vegetation.
Appendix F is an informational appendix provided for the convenience of the code user. It is simply a compilation of the eight characteristics of fire-smart vegetation that can be used effectively within wildland-urban interface areas to reduce the likelihood of fire spread through vegetation.
**App
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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CEBC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 34 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 35 Electrical Definitions.
Chapter 35 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 36 Services.
Chapter 36 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 37 Branch Circuit and Feeder Requirements.
Chapter 37 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 38 Wiring Methods.
Chapter 38 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 39 Power and Lighting Distribution.
Chapter 39 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
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Chapter 40 Devices and Luminaires.
Chapter 40 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 41 Appliance Installation.
Chapter 41 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 42 Swimming Pools.
Chapter 42 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 43 Class 2 Remote-control, Signaling and Power-limited Circuits.
Chapter 43 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Chapter 44 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 44 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 10 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 AA Board of Appeals.
Appendix AA 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 AB Permit Fees.
Appendix AB provides guidance to jurisdictions for setting appropriate permit fees. This appendix will aid many jurisdictions to assess permit fees that will assist to fairly and properly administer the code. This appendix can be used for informational purposes only or may be adopted when specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
Appendix BA Reserved.
Appendix BB Tiny Houses.
For dwelling units that are 400 square feet (37 m [2] ) or less in floor area, excluding lofts, Appendix BB provides relaxed provisions as compared to those in the body of the code. These provisions primarily address reduced ceiling heights for loft areas and specific stair and ladder detail requirements that allow for more compact designs where accessing lofts.
Appendix BC Reserved.
Appendix BD Reserved.
Appendix BE Radon Control Methods.
CEBC § 101.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 101.5 Additions or alterations. Additions or alterations shall be permitted to be made to any building or structure without requiring the existing building or structure to comply with all of the requirements of this code, provided that the addition or alteration conforms to that required for a new building or structure.
Exception: Provisions of this code that specifically apply to existing conditions are retroactive.
Additions or alterations shall not be made to an existing building or structure that will cause the existing building or structure to be in violation of any of the provisions of this code nor shall such additions or alterations cause the existing building or structure to become unsafe. An unsafe condition shall be deemed to have been created if an addition or alteration will cause the existing building or structure to become structurally unsafe or overloaded; will not provide adequate access in compliance with the provisions of this code or will obstruct existing exits or access; will create a fire hazard; will reduce required fire resistance or will otherwise create conditions dangerous to human life.
[A] 101.6 Maintenance. Buildings, structures, landscape materials, vegetation, defensible space or other devices or safeguards required by this code shall be maintained in conformance to the code edition under which installed. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings, structures, landscape materials and vegetation.
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall govern. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
[A] 102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 7 and such codes and standards shall be considered as part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2.
[A] 102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and the referenced standards, the provisions of this code shall govern.
[A] 102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced standard.
[A] 102.5 Subjects not regulated by this code. Where applicable standards or requirements are not set forth in this code, or are contained within other laws, codes, regulations, ordinances or policies adopted by the jurisdiction, compliance with applicable standards of other nationally recognized safety standards, as approved, shall be deemed as prima facie evidence of compliance with the intent of this code. Nothing herein shall derogate from the authority of the code official to determine compliance with codes or standards for those activities or installations within the code official’s jurisdiction or responsibility.
CEBC § 4.1 High relevance — show source text
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections R102.4.1 and R102.4.2.
Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance, the conditions of the listing and manufacturer’s instructions shall apply.
R102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
R102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
R102.5 Partial invalidity. In the event any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
R102.6 Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code, the International Property Maintenance Code or the California Fire Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
R102.6.1 Additions, alterations, change of use or repairs. Additions, alterations or repairs to any structure shall conform to the requirements for a new structure without requiring the existing structure to comply with the requirements of this code, unless otherwise stated. Additions, alterations, repairs and relocations shall not cause an existing structure to become less compliant with the provisions of this code than the existing building or structure was prior to the addition, alteration or repair. Where additions, alterations or changes of use to an existing structure result in a use, occupancy, height or means of egress outside the scope of this code, the building shall comply with the California Existing Building Code .
R102.7 Wildland-Urban Interface. The provisions of Part 7, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and struc- tures built in the wildland-urban interface (WUI).
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION R103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
R103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
R103.2 Appointment. The building official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.
R103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the building official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy building official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.
SECTION R104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BUILDING OFFICIAL
CEBC § 101.4.8 High relevance — show source text
[OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 & 5] The provisions of the California Existing Building Code, Chapters 2, 3, 4 and 5 shall apply to all matters govern- ing the repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, additions and relocation of existing structures and portions thereof under OSHPD jurisdiction.
101.4.8 Wildland-urban interface. The provisions of Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and structures built in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) or a Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
[A] 102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 through 102.4.4.
[A] 102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code or the California Codes specified in Section 101.4, the provisions of this code or the California Codes specified in Section 101.4, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
102.4.3 Code references. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] All reference to International Codes or other similar codes in referenced standards shall be replaced by equivalent provisions in the California Building Standards Codes.
102.4.4 Reference in standards. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] All references listed in reference standards shall be replaced by referenced standards listed in Chapter 35 of this code, where applicable, and shall include all amendments to the reference standards in this code.
[A] 102.5 Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.
[A] 102.6 Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, the California Existing Building Code or the Cali- fornia Fire Code .
CEBC § 102.4 High relevance — show source text
through 3108 and 3110). Unique types of buildings, such as membrane structures, greenhouses, relocatable buildings and intermodal shipping containers (Sections 3102, 3112, 3113 and 3114) are also addressed in this chapter.
Chapter 31A Systems for Window Cleaning or Exterior Building Maintenance.
See Title 8, California Code of Regulations, Division 1, Chapter 4, Subchapter 7, General Industry Safety Orders, Group 1, Articles 5 and 6.
Chapter 31B Public Pools.
Chapter 31B is promulgated by the California Department of Public Health and provides the requirements for the construction, installa- tion, renovation, alteration, addition, relocation, replacement, or use of any public pool and to its ancillary facilities, mechanical equipment and related piping. Public pools include those located in or designated as the following: commercial building, hotel, motel, resort, recreational vehicle or mobile home park, campground, apartment house, condominium, townhouse, homeowner association, club, community building or area, public or private school, health club or establishment, water park, swim school, medical facility, bed and breakfast, licensed day-care facility, recreation and park district, and municipal pools.
Chapter 31C Radiation.
Chapter 31C is promulgated by the California Department of Public Health and focuses on radiation safety standards for buildings and equipment.
Chapter 31D Food Establishments.
Chapter 31D is promulgated by the California Department of Public Health. The provisions of this chapter apply to the construction of commissaries serving mobile food preparation units.
Chapter 31E Reserved.
Chapter 31F Marine Oil Terminals.
Chapter 31F is promulgated by the California State Lands Commission (SLC) and establishes minimum engineering, inspection and maintenance criteria for marine oil terminals (MOTs) in order to prevent oil spills and to protect public health, safety and the environ- ment. The provisions of this chapter regulate onshore and offshore MOTs, including marine terminals that transfer liquefied natural gas (LNG) and are applicable to the evaluation of existing MOTs and design of new MOTs in California. The Marine Environmental Protection Division administers this chapter on behalf of the SLC.
Chapter 32 Encroachments into the Public Right-of-Way.
Buildings and structures may be designed to extend over a property line and into the public right-of-way. Local regulations outside of the building code usually set limits to such encroachments, and such regulations take precedence over the provisions of this chapter. Chapter 32 establishes parameters for such encroachments, not only at grade but also above and below grade. Pedestrian walkways must also comply with Chapter 31.
Chapter 33 Safeguards During Construction.
Chapter 33 provides safety requirements for the job site during construction and demolition of buildings and structures. In addition, it provides requirements intended to protect the public from injury and adjoining property from damage.
Chapter 34 Reserved.
Chapter 35 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 35 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 33 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 Employee Qualifications.
CEBC § 101.7 High relevance — show source text
101.7 Maintenance. [BSC, DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC, HCD 1, HCD 2] Buildings and structures, and parts thereof, shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. Devices or safeguards which are required by this code shall be maintained in conformance with the code edition under which installed. The owner or the owner’s designated agent shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings and structures. The requirements of this chapter shall not provide the basis for removal or abrogation of fire protection and safety systems and devices in existing structures.
[BSC, HCD 1, HCD 2] To determine compliance with this subsection, the building official shall have the authority to require a building or structure to be re-inspected.
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ADMINISTRATION
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
[A] 102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers or to provisions not specifically identified by number shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 and 102.4.2.
Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance, the conditions of the listing shall govern.
[A] 102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.4.2 Conflicting provisions. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
[A] 102.5 Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created, and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
[A] 103.2 Appointment. The code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.
CEBC § 101.4.5 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 101.4.5 Fire prevention. The provisions of the California Fire Code shall apply to matters affecting or relating to structures, processes and premises from the hazard of fire and explosion arising from the storage, handling or use of structures, materials or devices; from conditions hazardous to life, property or public welfare in the occupancy of structures or premises; and from the construction, extension, repair, alteration or removal of fire suppression, automatic sprinkler systems and alarm systems or fire hazards in the structure or on the premises from occupancy or operation.
[A] 101.4.6 Energy. The provisions of the California Energy Code shall apply to all matters governing the design and construction of buildings for energy efficiency.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 101.4.7 Existing buildings. The provisions of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to matters governing the repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to and relocation of existing buildings.
[OSHPD 1] The provisions of Chapters 2, 3A, 4A and 5A of the California Existing Building Code shall apply to all matters governing the repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, additions and relocation of existing structures and portions thereof under OSHPD jurisdic- tion. All references to Chapters 3, 4 and 5 of the California Existing Building Code shall be replaced by equivalent provisions in Chapters 3A, 4A and 5A.
[OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 & 5] The provisions of the California Existing Building Code, Chapters 2, 3, 4 and 5 shall apply to all matters govern- ing the repairs, alterations, change of occupancy, additions and relocation of existing structures and portions thereof under OSHPD jurisdiction.
101.4.8 Wildland-urban interface. The provisions of Part 7, the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and structures built in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) or a Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.
[A] 102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
[A] 102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
[A] 102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections 102.4.1 through 102.4.4.
[A] 102.4.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
CEBC § 102.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 102—APPLICABILITY
[A] 102.1 Construction and design provisions. The construction and design provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Structures, facilities and conditions arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions not legally in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions where required in Chapter 11.
- Existing structures, facilities and conditions that, in the opinion of the fire code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.
[A] 102.2 Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions. The administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply to:
- Conditions and operations arising after the adoption of this code.
- Existing conditions and operations.
[A] 102.3 Change of use or occupancy. A change of occupancy shall not be made unless the use or occupancy is made to comply with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code .
Exception: Where approved by the fire code official, a change of occupancy shall be permitted without complying with the requirements of this code and the California Existing Building Code, provided that the new or proposed use or occupancy is less hazardous, based on life and fire risk, than the existing use or occupancy.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 1-13
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
[A] 102.4 Application of building code. The design and construction of new structures shall comply with the California Building Code, and any alterations, additions, changes in use or changes in structures required by this code, which are within the scope of the California Building Code, shall be made in accordance therewith.
[A] 102.5 Application of residential code. Where structures are designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residen- tial Code, the provisions of this code shall apply as follows:
- Construction and design provisions of this code pertaining to the exterior of the structure shall apply including, but not limited to, premises identification, fire apparatus access and water supplies. Where interior or exterior systems or devices are installed, construction permits required by Section 105.6 shall apply.
- Administrative, operational and maintenance provisions of this code shall apply.
[A] 102.6 Historic buildings. The provisions of this code relating to the construction, alteration, repair, enlargement, restoration, relocation or moving of buildings or structures shall not be mandatory for existing buildings or structures identified and classified by the state or local jurisdiction as historic buildings where such buildings or structures do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or property. Fire protection in designated historic buildings shall be provided with an approved fire protection plan as required in Section 1103.1.1.
[A] 102.7 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those that are listed in Chapter 80, and such codes and standards shall be considered to be part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated by Sections 102.7.1 and 102.7.2.
[A] 102.7.1 Conflicts. Where conflicts occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
CEBC § 100.0 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CEBC Existing Buildindg Code
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PREFACE
This document is Part 10 of thirteen parts of the official triennial compilation and publication of the adoptions, amendments and repeal of administrative regulations to California Code of Regulations, Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards Code. This part is known as the California Existing Building Code.
The California Building Standards Code is published in its entirety every three years by order of the California legislature, with supplements published in intervening years. The California legislature delegated authority to various state agencies, boards, commissions and departments to create building regulations to implement the State’s statutes. These building regulations, or standards, have the same force of law, and take effect 180 days after their publication unless otherwise stipulated. The Califor- nia Building Standards Code applies to occupancies in the State of California as annotated.
A city, county, or city and county may establish more restrictive building standards reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions. Findings of the local condition(s) and the adopted local building standard(s) must generally be filed with the California Building Standards Commission (or other filing if indicated) to become effective, and may not be effective sooner than the effective date of this edition of the California Building Standards Code . Local building standards that were adopted and applicable to previous editions of the California Building Standards Code do not apply to this edition without appropriate adoption and the required filing.
Should you find publication (e.g., typographical) errors or inconsistencies in this code or wish to offer comments toward improving its format, please address your comments to:
California Building Standards Commission
2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95833-2936
Phone: (916) 263-0916 Email: cbsc@dgs.ca.gov
Web page: www.dgs.ca.gov/bsc
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The 2025 California Building Standards Code (Code) was developed through the outstanding collaborative efforts of the Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of the State Architect, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Department of Health Care Access and Information, California Energy Commission, California Department of Public Health, California State Lands Commission, Board of State and Community Corrections, Department of Water Resources, State Historical Building Safety Board, Department of Consumer Affairs, State Librarian, Department of Food and Agriculture, and the California Building Standards Commission (Commission).
This collaborative effort included the assistance of the Commission’s Code Advisory Committees and many other volunteers who worked tirelessly to assist the Commission in the production of this Code.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Members of the California Building Standards Commission
Secretary Amy Tong – Chair Rajesh Patel – Vice-Chair
Erick Mikiten Elley Klausbruckner Aaron Stockwell Juvilyn Alegre Peter Santillan Kent Sasaki
Laura Rambin James Haskin
Frank Ramirez
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which edition of a standard applies?
Check Chapter 16 — the CEBC’s referenced-standards tables identify the standard and, where shown, the edition or effective date that the CEBC adopts.
If a referenced standard conflicts with a CEBC section, which do I follow?
Follow the CEBC. § 102.4.1 explicitly states that where conflicts occur, the CEBC provisions govern.
Does citing a standard make every clause in that standard enforceable?
No. A cited standard is enforceable only to the prescribed extent the CEBC refers to it. Always read the CEBC section that cites the standard to see what parts are adopted. § 102.4.
What if a manufacturer’s listing conflicts with a CEBC requirement?
The CEBC includes a limited exception: where enforcing a CEBC provision would violate the conditions of a product/equipment listing, the listing’s conditions govern in that narrow circumstance.
Where can I find the complete list of referenced standards used by the CEBC?
See Chapter 16 — Referenced Standards in the CEBC; that chapter lists each standard, its identifier and the CEBC sections that reference it.
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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