CEBC · California Existing Building Code

Can moved dwellings retain original materials and methods of construction?

Homeowner summary: You can usually keep original siding, plaster and other historic materials when a house is moved — but only if the building is safe, the new foundation meets current new‑construction rules, and the move doesn’t make the house “substandard.” The local code official will verify life‑safety (fire and property‑maintenance) requirements and may require structural upgrades if loads at the new site are higher. **§ 1401.2**

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Short answer: Yes — moved apartment houses and dwellings may retain original materials and use original methods of construction so long as the moved building is safe for human occupancy, complies with required foundations for new construction, and does not become or continue to be a substandard building. The controlling provision is § 1401.2 of the California Existing Building Code (CEBC). § 1401.2 also requires that repairs/alterations follow the code requirements for the work and that any field‑fabricated elements meet the California Building Code or California Residential Code.

The single most important rule: A moved dwelling can keep its original materials and methods, but only if it meets the life‑safety and foundation standards that prevent it from being a substandard building. § 1401.2

Requirements in detail

Core conditions that allow retention of original materials and methods

The building must be safe for human occupancy as determined by the California Fire Code and the International Property Maintenance Code — this is a threshold for moving and reuse. § 1401.2
For moved apartment houses and dwellings constructed before or retained after July 1, 1978, local ordinances must permit retention of existing materials and methods of construction provided two conditions are met:
1. The structure complies with the building standards for foundations applicable to new construction; and
2. The structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building. § 1401.2
Any repairs, alterations, or changes of occupancy made inside the moved structure must comply with the CEBC provisions that apply to the specific work being performed; field‑fabricated elements must comply with the California Building Code or California Residential Code. § 1401.2

Decision‑relevant dimensions and values (quick reference table)

Decision question	Action required	Code Reference
Is the building safe for human occupancy?	Verify compliance with California Fire Code and International Property Maintenance Code before occupancy.	§ 1401.2
Can original materials/methods be retained?	Yes, if foundation meets new‑construction standards and building is not substandard.	§ 1401.2
Foundation requirements	Connect and construct foundation to meet CBC/CRC standards for new construction. See Chapter 1402 foundation provisions.	§ 1401.2 and § 1402.2
Repairs/alterations inside moved building	Must comply with CEBC requirements applicable to the work being performed.	§ 1401.2
Field‑fabricated elements added on site	Must comply with the California Building Code or California Residential Code.	§ 1401.2
Date threshold referenced	“After July 1, 1978” — CEBC directs local ordinances to permit retention starting from that date.	§ 1401.2
Existing materials already in place	May remain in use unless the code official determines they are unsafe.	§ 302.3

How the foundation and structural load rules interact

The CEBC requires relocated buildings to meet foundation requirements of new construction (see § 1402.2). That means foundations and the connection to the foundation must be designed/constructed per CBC or CRC as applicable. § 1402.2 and § 1402.2.1
If the move increases applicable environmental loads at the new location (wind, seismic, snow), the CEBC requires compliance with the CBC/CRC for those loads (see § 1402.3, § 1402.4, § 1402.5) — there are limited exceptions for detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and where stress increases are small. § 1402.3, § 1402.4, § 1402.5

Existing materials vs. new/replacement materials

Materials already in use and compliant with the code in effect when installed are permitted to remain unless declared unsafe by the code official. For replacements and new materials, code‑required materials for new construction apply unless CEBC allows like‑for‑like repairs. § 302.3 and § 302.4

Exceptions & special cases

Date rule: The CEBC text specifically addresses local ordinances for structures moved after July 1, 1978; jurisdictions are required to permit retention under the conditions stated in § 1401.2. § 1401.2
Detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings may be exempt from full wind or seismic requalification where the loads at the new location are not higher than at the previous location (see wind/seismic exceptions in § 1402.3 and § 1402.4). § 1402.3 and § 1402.4
Structural elements whose stress is not increased by more than 10 percent may be excepted from some requalification requirements (see exceptions in § 1402.3 and § 1402.4). § 1402.3 and § 1402.4
Snow‑load exception: elements whose stress is not increased by more than 5 percent may be excepted for snow‑load differences. § 1402.5

If you need definitive answers about whether a particular element qualifies under an exception (for example, whether a given joist’s stress increases less than 10%), those determinations are project‑specific and typically require structural calculations submitted to the authority having jurisdiction.

Common mistakes

Assuming original materials can be retained regardless of condition — the code allows retention only if the building is not a substandard building and is safe for occupancy (authority having jurisdiction can require removal of unsafe materials). § 1401.2, § 302.3
Forgetting to upgrade or verify the foundation to meet new‑construction standards — foundation compliance is an explicit condition for permitting retained materials. § 1401.2 and § 1402.2
Overlooking other codes: moved buildings must also meet the California Fire Code, International Property Maintenance Code, and applicable provisions of CBC/CRC for field‑fabricated work and repairs. § 1401.2
Relying on “like‑for‑like” replacements where the code requires new‑construction materials for replacement work — check § 302.4 for material rules. § 302.4

Worked example — applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: A single‑family house built in 1925 is moved in 2026 from Site A to Site B. At Site A the house was in Seismic Design Category B; Site B is in Seismic Design Category C. The owner wants to keep original wood siding, interior plaster/lathe, and existing (original) floor joists.

Step 1 — Safety / occupancy check: The jurisdiction will evaluate the building for life‑safety hazards per the California Fire Code and International Property Maintenance Code. Any life‑safety hazards (e.g., compromised stairways, unsafe chimneys) must be addressed before occupancy. § 1401.2

Step 2 — Foundation: The owner must provide a foundation meeting the foundations applicable to new construction for the building at Site B (drawings, details, and connection to the foundation per CBC/CRC). If the existing floor system is to remain, the connection to the new foundation must comply with § 1402.2 and § 1402.2.1. § 1401.2, § 1402.2

Step 3 — Seismic loads: Because seismic design category increases from B → C, the CEBC requires compliance with CBC/CRC seismic provisions at the new location; the small‑stress exception (≤ 10 percent increase) does not automatically apply because the design category changed. Therefore, the structural system (or at least critical load‑carrying members and connections) will likely need to be evaluated and strengthened as necessary. § 1402.4

Step 4 — Materials retention: The owner may retain the original wood siding and plaster provided they are not unsafe and the building as moved does not become a substandard building. The code official may require repairs or selective replacement if materials are judged unsafe. § 1401.2, § 302.3

Net result: Retain siding and plaster is allowed, subject to (a) foundation brought to new‑construction standards; (b) seismic upgrade or verification per CBC/CRC since SDC increased; and (c) no life‑safety or substandard conditions remain. § 1401.2, § 1402.2, § 1402.4, § 302.3

Related provisions

Chapter 14 (Relocated or moved buildings), general and scope — § 1401.1 and § 1401.2.
Foundation requirements for relocated buildings — § 1402.2 and § 1402.2.1.
Wind loads for relocated buildings — § 1402.3 (includes exceptions).
Seismic loads for relocated buildings — § 1402.4 (includes exceptions for certain SDCs and small stress increases).
Snow loads for relocated buildings — § 1402.5 (includes a 5% exception).
Existing materials allowed to remain unless unsafe — § 302.3.
New/replacement materials and like‑for‑like repairs — § 302.4.
CEBC Chapter 1 administrative references permitting retention of original methods/materials when not substandard (cross reference to Health & Safety Code) — § 1.8.10.2.

Code references

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

CEBC § 2.3 High relevance — show source text
Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1,_ Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000.

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ADMINISTRATION

4. For applications subject to the Employee Housing Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.4 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600. 5. For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

SECTION 1.8.10—OTHER BUILDING REGULATIONS

1.8.10.1 Existing structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accordance with the provisions of this code as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, retention and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

SECTION 1.9—DIVISION OF THE STATE ARCHITECT

1.9.1 Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance - Reserved.

Buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2 (California

— Building Code), Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect Access Compliance shall comply with Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable under authority cited by CA Government Code Section 4450 and in reference cited by CA Government Code Sections 4450 through 4461, 12955.1(c), and CA Health and Safety Code Sections 18949.1, 19952 through 19959.

1.9.1.1 Adopting agency identification. Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance amendments in this code appear preceded with the acronym [DSA-AC].

1.9.2 Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety.

1.9.2.1 DSA-SS Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety.

Application— Public elementary and secondary schools, community colleges and state-owned or state-leased essential services buildings.
CEBC § 1.8.9.2 High relevance — show source text
1.8.9.2 Actions and proceedings. Subject to other provisions of law, punishments, penalties and fines for violations of building stan- dards are contained in the following statutes and regulations: 1. For applications subject to the State Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.1 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, commencing with Section 17910 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 1. 2. For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.2 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.1, commencing with Section 18200 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2, commencing with Section 1000. 3. For applications subject to the Special Occupancy Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.3 of this code, refer to the Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000. 4. For applications subject to the Employee Housing Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.4 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600. 5. For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chap- ter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

SECTION 1.8.10—OTHER BUILDING REGULATIONS

1.8.10.1 Existing structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention and extension of original materials, and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accor- dance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, reten- tion and extension of original materials, and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

SECTION 1.9—RESERVED

SECTION 1.10—RESERVED

SECTION 1.11—OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL
CEBC § 1.8.3.2.5 High relevance — show source text
_ Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600. 5. For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chap- ter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

SECTION 1.8.10—OTHER BUILDING REGULATIONS

1.8.10.1 Existing structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention and extension of original materials, and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accor- dance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, reten- tion and extension of original materials, and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

SECTION 1.9—RESERVED

SECTION 1.10—RESERVED

SECTION 1.11—OFFICE OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL

1.11.1 SFM—Office of the State Fire Marshal. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.

Application. Institutional, educational or any similar occupancy. Any building or structure used or intended for use as an asylum, jail, prison, mental hospital, hospital, sanitarium, home for the elderly, children’s nursery, children’s home or institution, school or any simi- lar occupancy of any capacity.

Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Section 13143.

Reference— Health and Safety Code Section 13143.

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DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

Assembly or similar place of assemblage. Any theater, dancehall, skating rink, auditorium, assembly hall, meeting hall, nightclub, fair building or similar place of assemblage where 50 or more persons may gather together in a building, room or structure for the purpose of amusement, entertainment, instruction, deliberation, worship, drinking or dining, awaiting transportation, or education.

Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Section 13143.

Reference— Health and Safety Code Section 13143.

Small family day-care homes.

Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Sections 1597.45, 1597.54, 13143 and 17921.
CEBC § 1.8.3.2.2 High relevance — show source text
Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1,_ Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 1. 2. For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.2 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.1, commencing with Section 18200 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2, commencing with Section 1000. 3. For applications subject to the Special Occupancy Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.3 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000. 4. For applications subject to the Employee Housing Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.4 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600. 5. For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chap- ter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

SECTION 1.8.10—OTHER BUILDING REGULATIONS

1.8.10.1 Existing structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accordance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, reten- tion and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

SECTION 1.9—DIVISION OF THE STATE ARCHITECT

1.9.1 Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance.

General. The purpose of this code is to ensure that barrier-free design is incorporated in all buildings, facilities, site work and other improvements to which this code applies in compliance with state law to ensure that these improvements are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities. Additions, alterations and structural repairs in all buildings and facilities shall comply with these provisions for new buildings, except as otherwise provided and specified herein.
CEBC § 1401.1.1 High relevance — show source text
and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2._ Manufactured homes must meet unit identification (data plate) and certification label requirements as specified in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 24, Subtitle B, Chapter XX, Part 3280 and Health and Safety Code Section 18032. Commercial modulars and special purpose commercial modulars must meet identification requirements in the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 2.

1401.1.1 Bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands. Relocated or moved bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands shall comply with ICC 300.

1401.2 Conformance. The building shall be safe for human occupancy as determined by the California Fire Code and the Interna- tional Property Maintenance Code . Any repair, alteration or change of occupancy undertaken within the moved structure shall comply with the requirements of this code applicable to the work being performed. Any field-fabricated elements shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code or the California Residential Code, as applicable. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] After July 1, 1978, local ordinances or regulations for relocated or moved apartment houses and dwellings shall permit the retention of existing materials and methods of construction, provided the apartment house or dwelling complies with the building standards for foundations applica- ble to new construction and does not become or continue to be a substandard building. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17958.9.

SECTION 1402—REQUIREMENTS

1402.1 Location on the lot. The building shall be located on the lot in accordance with the requirements of the California Building Code or the California Residential Code, as applicable.

[BS] 1402.2 Foundation. The foundation system of relocated buildings shall comply with the California Building Code or the Califor- nia Residential Code, as applicable.

[BS] 1402.2.1 Connection to the foundation. The connection of the relocated building to the foundation shall comply with the California Building Code or the California Residential Code, as applicable.

[BS] 1402.3 Wind loads. Buildings shall comply with California Building Code or California Residential Code wind provisions, as applicable.

Exceptions:
1. Detached one- and two-family dwellings and Group U occupancies where wind loads at the new location are not higher than those at the previous location.
2. Structural elements whose stress is not increased by more than 10 percent.
[BS] 1402.4 Seismic loads. Buildings shall comply with California Building Code or California Residential Code seismic provisions at the new location, as applicable.

Exceptions:
1. Structures in Seismic Design Categories A and B and detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic Design Categories A, B and C where the seismic loads at the new location are not higher than those at the previous location.
2. Structural elements whose stress is not increased by more than 10 percent.
[BS] 1402.5 Snow loads. Structures shall comply with California Building Code or California Residential Code snow loads, as applicable, where snow loads at the new location are higher than those at the previous location.

Exception: Structural elements whose stress is not increased by more than 5 percent.
CEBC § 8.3.2.1 High relevance — show source text
8.3.2.1 of this code, refer_ to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, commencing with Section 17910 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 1. (2) For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.2 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.1, commencing with Section 18200 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2, commencing with Section 1000. (3) For applications subject to the Special Occupancy Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.3 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and Cali- fornia Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000. (4) For applications subject to the Employee Housing Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.4 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600. (5) For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000. 1.8.10 Other Building Regulations. 1.8.10.1 Existing Structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention, and exten- sion of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accor-

dance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved Structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, retention, and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

1.9.0 Division of the State Architect. 1.9.1 Reserved for the Division of the State Architect – Access Compliance. 1.9.2 Division of the State Architect – Structural Safety. 1.9.2.1 DSA-SS (Division of the State Architect – Struc- tural Safety).
CEBC § 1.8.3.2.2 High relevance — show source text
2. For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.2 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part

2.1, commencing with Section 18200 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2, commencing with Section 1000.

3. For applications subject to the Special Occupancy Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.3 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and Cal- ifornia Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000.

4. For applications subject to the Employee Housing Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.4 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600.

5. For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Sub- chapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

1.8.10 Other Building Regulations.

1.8.10.1 Existing Structures. Notwithstanding other pro- visions of law, the replacement, retention, and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory struc- ture, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accor- dance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code Sec- tions 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved Structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, retention, and extension of original materials and the use of origi- nal methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

Note:
CEBC § 1.8.10 High relevance — show source text
Division 1, Chap-_ ter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

SECTION 1.8.10—OTHER BUILDING REGULATIONS

1.8.10.1 Existing structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accordance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, reten- tion and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

SECTION 1.9—DIVISION OF THE STATE ARCHITECT

1.9.1 Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance.

General. The purpose of this code is to ensure that barrier-free design is incorporated in all buildings, facilities, site work and other improvements to which this code applies in compliance with state law to ensure that these improvements are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities. Additions, alterations and structural repairs in all buildings and facilities shall comply with these provisions for new buildings, except as otherwise provided and specified herein.

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

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

1.9.1.1 Application. See Government Code commencing with Section 4450.

Publicly funded buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and related facilities shall be accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities as follows:
CEBC § 1.8.3.2.5 High relevance — show source text
5. For applications subject to the Factory-Built Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Sub- chapter 1, commencing with Section 3000.

1.8.10 Other Building Regulations.

1.8.10.1 Existing Structures. Notwithstanding other pro- visions of law, the replacement, retention, and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory struc- ture, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accor- dance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code Sec- tions 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved Structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, retention, and extension of original materials and the use of origi- nal methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

Note:

Authority Cited – Health and Safety Code Sections 17040, 17050, 17920.9, 17921, 17921.5, 17921.6, 17921.10, 17922, 17922.6, 17922.12, 17922.14, 17926, 17927, 17928, 17958.12, 18552, 18554, 18620, 18630, 18640, 18670, 18690, 18691, 18865, 18871.3, 18871.4, 18873, 18873.1 through 18873.5, 18938.3, and 19990, and Government Code Sections 12955.1 and 12855.1.1.

References – Health and Safety Code Sections 17000 through 17062.5, 17910 through 17995.5, 18200 through 18700, 18860 through 18874, 18938.6, 18941, 18941.5, 19890, 19891, 19892 and 19960 through 19997; Civil Code Sections 1101.4, 1101.5, 1954.201, 1954.202 and 5551; and Government Code Sections 8698.4, 12955.1, 12955.1.1 and 65852.2. California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Sections 1605.1, 1605.3 and 1607.

12 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

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DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION
CEBC § 1.8.10.2 High relevance — show source text
1.8.10.2 Moved structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, retention and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

SECTION 1.9—DIVISION OF THE STATE ARCHITECT

1.9.1 Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance - Reserved.

Buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2 (California

— Building Code), Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect Access Compliance shall comply with Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable under authority cited by CA Government Code Section 4450 and in reference cited by CA Government Code Sections 4450 through 4461, 12955.1(c), and CA Health and Safety Code Sections 18949.1, 19952 through 19959.

1.9.1.1 Adopting agency identification. Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance amendments in this code appear preceded with the acronym [DSA-AC].

1.9.2 Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety.

1.9.2.1 DSA-SS Division of the State Architect-Structural Safety.

Application— Public elementary and secondary schools, community colleges and state-owned or state-leased essential services buildings.

Enforcing agency— The Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety [DSA-SS] has been delegated the responsibility and authority by the Department of General Services to review and approve the design and observe the construction of public elementary and secondary schools, community colleges and state-owned or state-leased essential services buildings.

Authority cited— Education Code Section 17310 and 81142 and Health and Safety Code Section 16022.

Reference— Education Code Sections 17280 through 17317, and 81130 through 81147 and Health and Safety Code Sections 16000 through 16023.

1.9.2.1.1 Applicable administrative standards.
CEBC § 1.8.10 High relevance — show source text
Division 13, Part 6,_ commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000. 1.8.10 Other Building Regulations. 1.8.10.1 Existing Structures. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, the replacement, retention, and exten- sion of original materials and the use of original methods of construction for any existing building or accessory structure, or portions thereof, shall be permitted in accor-

dance with the provisions of this code and the California Existing Building Code, as adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For additional information, see California Health and Safety Code, Sections 17912, 17920.3, 17922 and 17958.8.

1.8.10.2 Moved Structures. Subject to the requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 17922, 17922.3 and 17958.9, local ordinances or regulations relating to a moved residential building or accessory structure thereto, shall permit the replacement, retention, and extension of original materials and the use of original methods of construction so long as the structure does not become or continue to be a substandard building.

1.9.0 Division of the State Architect. 1.9.1 Reserved for the Division of the State Architect – Access Compliance. 1.9.2 Division of the State Architect – Structural Safety. 1.9.2.1 DSA-SS (Division of the State Architect – Struc- tural Safety).

– Application Public elementary and secondary schools, community college buildings, and state-owned or state- leased essential services buildings.

– Enforcing Agency Division of the State Architect – Structural Safety (DSA-SS). The Division of the State Architect has been delegated the responsibility and authority by the Department of General Services to review and approve the design and oversee and observe the construction of public elementary and secondary schools, community colleges, and state- owned or state-leased essential services buildings. Authority Cited – Education Code Sections 17310 and 81142, and Health & Safety Code Section 16022.

– References Education Code Sections 17280 through 17317 and 81130 through 81147, and Health & Safety Code Sections 16000 through 16023. 1.9.2.1.1 Adopting Agency Identification. The provi- sions of this code applicable to buildings identified in this Subsection 1.9.2.1 will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym DSA-SS. 1.9.2.2 DSA-SS/CC (Division of the State Architect – Structural Safety/Community Colleges).
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 14-1

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

14-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

14 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS

User notes:

About this chapter: Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. The relocation of a building will automatically cause an inspection and evaluation process that enables the jurisdiction to determine the level of compliance with the California Fire Code and the California Existing Building Code . These two codes, by their scope, are applicable to existing buildings. This is the case regardless of any repair, remodeling, alteration work or change of occupancy occurring (see the California Fire Code and California Existing Building Code.

SECTION 1401—GENERAL

1401.1 Scope. This chapter provides requirements for relocated or moved structures, including relocatable buildings as defined in Chapter 2. [HCD] The provisions of Chapter 14 are not applicable to commercial modulars, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multi- unit manufactured housing and special purpose commercial modulars as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 18001.8, 18007, 18008, 18008.7 and 18012.5, respectively. These structures are subject to installation/reinstallation requirements specified in the Mobile- home Parks Act (Health and Safety Code Section 18200 et seq.) and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2. Manufactured homes must meet unit identification (data plate) and certification label requirements as specified in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 24, Subtitle B, Chapter XX, Part 3280 and Health and Safety Code Section 18032. Commercial modulars and special purpose commercial modulars must meet identification requirements in the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 2.

1401.1.1 Bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands. Relocated or moved bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands shall comply with ICC 300.

1401.2 Conformance. The building shall be safe for human occupancy as determined by the California Fire Code and the Interna- tional Property Maintenance Code . Any repair, alteration or change of occupancy undertaken within the moved structure shall comply with the requirements of this code applicable to the work being performed. Any field-fabricated elements shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code or the California Residential Code, as applicable. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] After July 1, 1978, local ordinances or regulations for relocated or moved apartment houses and dwellings shall permit the retention of existing materials and methods of construction, provided the apartment house or dwelling complies with the building standards for foundations applica- ble to new construction and does not become or continue to be a substandard building. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17958.9.

SECTION 1402—REQUIREMENTS

Frequently asked questions

Can I always keep wood siding or original plaster when I move a house?

Yes — provided the siding/plaster are not unsafe, the moved building meets occupancy safety requirements, and the foundation and other required upgrades are completed so the building is not a substandard building. § 1401.2 and § 302.3

Does moving a house force me to meet full current seismic code?

If the seismic loads at the new location are higher than at the old location (for example SDC increases), the building must comply with CBC/CRC seismic provisions at the new location. Limited exceptions exist for certain detached dwellings and small stress increases (see § 1402.4).

What does “substandard building” mean for a moved dwelling?

The CEBC uses “substandard building” as the condition to avoid; if a building is unsafe or fails minimum habitability/life‑safety standards, the authority having jurisdiction can require corrective work. The CEBC requires retention only if the move does not create or perpetuate a substandard building. § 1401.2 and Chapter 3 enforcement provisions apply.

Do I need to rebuild the foundation even if I keep everything else?

Yes — the CEBC requires the moved building to comply with the building standards for foundations applicable to new construction; connections to that foundation must meet CBC/CRC. § 1401.2, § 1402.2

Who decides whether a retained material is “unsafe”?

The authority having jurisdiction (code official) inspects the building and may determine materials or conditions are unsafe and require repair or replacement. § 302.3

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Related in the CEBC

What conformance (occupancy, repairs, field-fabricated elements) is required after moving a building?

What inspections and repairs are required after a building is moved?

Inspections, repairs and conformance after relocation

California Existing Building Code