CEBC · California Existing Building Code
Are manufactured homes, mobilehomes or commercial modulars covered by Chapter 14?
If a unit is a **manufactured home**, **mobilehome**, or **commercial modular** as defined in the Health and Safety Code, **CEBC Chapter 14 does not apply** — instead follow the Mobilehome Parks Act, Title 25 CCR, and federal manufactured‑home standards per **§ 1401.1**.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
Chapter 14 applies to relocated or moved buildings and relocatable buildings, but it explicitly does not apply to commercial modulars, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multi‑unit manufactured housing, or special‑purpose commercial modulars. The controlling language is § 1401.1 of the California Existing Building Code: these categories are excluded and instead are regulated by the Mobilehome Parks Act, the California Code of Regulations (Title 25), and federal manufactured‑housing rules where noted.
If a unit is a manufactured home, mobilehome, or a commercial modular (as defined in the Health and Safety Code), Chapter 14 does not apply — use the Mobilehome Parks Act, Title 25 CCR, or the federal manufactured‑home rules instead.
Requirements in detail
Scope (plain English)
- Chapter 14 covers buildings that are moved/relocated or relocatable buildings — i.e., the ordinary Chapter 14 inspection/evaluation process applies when a building is moved. § 1401.1 sets this scope.
- HOWEVER, Chapter 14 is not applicable to the specific factory‑built housing types named in § 1401.1: commercial modulars, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multi‑unit manufactured housing, and special‑purpose commercial modulars.
Who regulates the excluded units (where to go instead)
- Excluded units are subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act (Health and Safety Code § 18200 et seq.) and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2 for installation/reinstallation requirements (as stated in § 1401.1).
- Manufactured homes must meet data‑plate and certification label requirements in CFR, Title 24, Part 3280 and Health and Safety Code § 18032, per § 1401.1.
- Commercial modulars and special‑purpose commercial modulars must meet identification requirements in California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 2, per § 1401.1.
Decision table — which rule applies?
| Type of unit | Is Chapter 14 applicable? | If not, applicable regulation(s) | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relocated site‑built building (ordinary house moved) | Yes | Follow CEBC Chapter 14 inspection and requirements | § 1401.1 |
| Relocatable (non‑HCD regulated) building (e.g., temporary classroom) | Yes (unless HCD categories apply) | CEBC Chapter 14 | § 1401.1 |
| Manufactured home (single‑family manufactured dwelling) | No | Mobilehome Parks Act; CFR Title 24, Part 3280; HSC § 18032 | § 1401.1 |
| Mobilehome | No | Mobilehome Parks Act; Title 25 CCR | § 1401.1 |
| Commercial modular / special‑purpose commercial modular | No | Title 25 CCR, Div. 1, Ch. 3, Subch. 2 (identification/labeling) | § 1401.1 |
| Multi‑unit manufactured housing | No | HSC and Title 25 CCR provisions referenced in § 1401.1 | § 1401.1 |
Definitions and where to check them
- The CEBC text points to the Health and Safety Code for the statutory definitions of manufactured home, mobilehome, and commercial modular (e.g., HSC §§ 18001.8, 18007, 18008, 18008.7, 18012.5). The CEBC does not reproduce those statutory definitions in § 1401.1; consult the Health and Safety Code and Title 25 CCR for the exact legal definitions.
Exceptions & special cases
- Chapter 14 still governs ordinary moved or relocated buildings that are not within the HCD categories listed in § 1401.1.
- The code text you supplied does not list additional numeric thresholds or size/weight cutoffs that would re‑classify a unit; classification depends on the statutory definitions in the Health and Safety Code and the labeling/identification status described in Title 24 / Title 25. For those precise definitional thresholds (e.g., what legally constitutes a manufactured home vs. a relocatable building), you must consult the Health and Safety Code sections cited in § 1401.1 and the referenced federal/state regulations.
Common mistakes
- Misreading “relocatable building” to include manufactured homes or commercial modulars. § 1401.1 explicitly excludes them — don’t assume a factory‑built home falls under Chapter 14 without checking statutory definitions.
- Failing to verify a unit’s required identification (data plate/certification label). Manufactured homes and many commercial modulars have mandatory labels/plates (CFR Title 24 / Title 25) — absence of those labels changes what inspections/permits are required.
- Using the CEBC alone for installation/install‑reinstallation of excluded units. The CEBC points to the Mobilehome Parks Act and Title 25 CCR for those processes; local HCD enforcement or the park operator rules often apply.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario A: You plan to move a 1978 single‑section factory‑built dwelling (32 ft × 12 ft) that was constructed in a factory and sold as a single‑family home. The unit has a permanently affixed manufactured home data plate and a federal certification label.
- Step 1 — classification: Because the unit is a factory‑built single‑family dwelling with a data plate and certification label, it meets the description of a manufactured home under the Health and Safety Code cited in § 1401.1. Therefore, Chapter 14 does not apply.
- Step 2 — applicable rules: The move and reinstallation must follow the Mobilehome Parks Act (HSC § 18200 et seq.), Title 25 CCR, Division 1, Chapter 2, and the federal manufactured‑home rules (CFR Title 24, Part 3280) for data plate/certification compliance.
- Result: Submit to HCD/park procedures rather than Chapter 14 CEBC relocation procedures.
Scenario B: You plan to relocate a factory‑built classroom module (20 ft × 40 ft) used by a school district. The module is not labeled as a manufactured home and is built to public‑school relocatable standards.
- Step 1 — classification: This is a relocatable building (not a manufactured home). Chapter 14 applies unless another statute specifically excludes it. Chapter 14 processes (inspection/evaluation on relocation) should be followed.
(These scenarios are worked from the CEBC direction in § 1401.1; the CEBC points you to the Health & Safety Code and Title 25 where statutory definitions and certain installation details live.)
Related provisions
- § 1401.2 — Conformance (CEBC requirements that moved buildings be safe for occupancy).
- § 1401.1.1 — Bleachers, folding and telescopic seating and grandstands (relocated seating structures).
- CEBC definitions and application exceptions (see CEBC Section 1.8.2 references to HCD applications) — consult the CEBC definitions and the Health & Safety Code sections cited in § 1401.1 for statutory definitions.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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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
CEBC § 31-12 High relevance — show source text
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SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION
Parks Act (Health and Safety Code Section 18200 et seq.) and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2. Manufac- tured 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.
3113.1.1 Compliance. A newly constructed relocatable building shall comply with the requirements of this code for new construction. [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] as enforced by the enforcement agency. An existing relocatable building that is undergoing alteration, addition, change of occupancy or relocation shall comply with Chapter 14 of the California Existing Building Code .
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] An existing relocatable public school building that is undergoing alteration, addition or change of occupancy shall comply with Chapter 3 of the California Existing Building Code.
3113.2 Supplemental information. Supplemental information specific to a relocatable building shall be submitted to the authority having jurisdiction. It shall, as a minimum, include the following in addition to the information required by Section 105:
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] Supplemental information specific to a relocatable building shall be submitted to the enforce- ment agency. It shall, as a minimum, include the following in addition to the information required by Section 1603A:
Manufacturer’s name and address.
Date of manufacture.
Serial number of module.
Manufacturer’s design drawings.
Type of construction in accordance with Section 602.
Design loads including: roof live load, roof snow load, floor live load, wind load and seismic site class, use group and design category.
Additional building planning and structural design data.
Site-built structure or appurtenance attached to the relocatable building.
3113.3 Manufacturer’s data plate. Each relocatable module shall have a data plate that is permanently attached on or adjacent to the electrical panel, and shall include the following information:
Occupancy group.
Manufacturer’s name and address.
Date of manufacture.
Serial number of module.
Design roof live load, design floor live load, snow load, wind and seismic design.
Approved quality assurance agency or approved inspection agency.
Codes and standards of construction.
Envelope thermal resistance values.
Electrical service size.
Fuel-burning equipment and size.
Special limitations if any.
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] Each relocatable module shall have two metal identification labels permanently attached to the structure as enforced by the enforcement agency.
3113.4 Inspection agencies. The building official is authorized to accept reports of inspections conducted by approved inspection agencies during off-site construction of the relocatable building, and to satisfy the applicable requirements of Sections 110.3 through 110.3.12.1.
CEBC § 1.8.2 High relevance — show source text
[RB] BUILDING. Any one- or two-family dwelling or townhouse, or portion thereof, used or intended to be used for human habitation, for living, sleeping, cooking or eating purposes, or any combination thereof, or any accessory structure.
Exceptions: For applications listed in Section 1.8.2 regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development, “Building” shall not include the following: 1. Any mobilehome as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008. 2. Any manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18007. 3. Any commercial modular as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8 or any special purpose commercial modular as defined in Section 18012.5.
4. Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18010. 5. Any multifamily manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 18908.
Note: Building shall have the same meaning as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 17920 and 18908 for the applications specified in Section 1.11.
[MP] BUILDING DRAIN. The lowest piping that collects the discharge from all other drainage piping inside the house and extends 30 inches (762 mm) in developed length of pipe, beyond the exterior walls and conveys the drainage to the building sewer.
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DEFINITIONS
[RB] BUILDING LINE. The line established by law, beyond which a building shall not extend, except as specifically provided by law.
[RB] BUILDING OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative.
[MP] BUILDING SEWER. That part of the drainage system that extends from the end of the building drain and conveys its discharge to a public sewer, private sewer, individual sewage-disposal system or other point of disposal.
[RB] BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) ROOF COVERING. A BIPV system that also functions as a roof covering. Coverings include, but are not limited to, shingles, tiles and roof panels.
[RB] BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) ROOF PANEL. A photovoltaic panel that functions as a component of the building envelope.
[RB] BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) SYSTEM. A building system that incorporates photovoltaic modules and functions as an integral part of the building envelope, such as roof assemblies and roof coverings, exterior wall envelopes and exterior wall coverings, and fenestration.
[RB] BUILT-UP ROOF COVERING. Two or more layers of felt cemented together and surfaced with a cap sheet, mineral aggregate, smooth coating or similar surfacing material.
[RB] CAP PLATE. The top plate of the double top plates used in structural insulated panel (SIP) construction. The cap plate is cut to match the panel thickness such that it overlaps the wood structural panel facing on both sides.
CEBC § 10.1. High relevance — show source text
[MP] BOILER. A self-contained appliance from which hot water is circulated for heating purposes and then returned to the boiler, and that operates at water pressures not exceeding 160 pounds per square inch gage (psig) (1102 kPa gauge) and at water temperatures not exceeding 250°F (121°C).
[RB] BOND BEAM. A horizontal grouted element within masonry in which reinforcement is embedded.
[RB] BRACED WALL LINE. A straight line through the building plan that represents the location of the lateral resistance provided by the wall bracing.
[RB] BRACED WALL LINE, CONTINUOUSLY SHEATHED. A braced wall line with structural sheathing applied to all sheathable surfaces including the areas above and below openings.
[RB] BRACED WALL PANEL. A full-height section of wall constructed to resist in-plane shear loads through interaction of framing members, sheathing material and anchors. The panel’s length meets the requirements of its particular bracing method, and contributes toward the total amount of bracing required along its braced wall line in accordance with Section R602.10.1.
[MP] BRANCH. Any part of the piping system other than a riser, main or stack.
[MP] BRANCH, FIXTURE. See “Fixture branch, drainage.”
[MP] BRANCH, HORIZONTAL. See “Horizontal branch, drainage.”
[MP] BRANCH, MAIN. A water-distribution pipe that extends horizontally off a main or riser to convey water to branches or fixture
groups.
[MP] BRANCH, VENT. A vent connecting two or more individual vents with a vent stack or stack vent.
[MP] BRANCH INTERVAL. A vertical measurement of distance, 8 feet (2438 mm) or more in developed length, between the connections of horizontal branches to a drainage stack. Measurements are taken down the stack from the highest horizontal branch connection.
[RB] BUILDING. Any one- or two-family dwelling or townhouse, or portion thereof, used or intended to be used for human habitation, for living, sleeping, cooking or eating purposes, or any combination thereof, or any accessory structure.
Exceptions: For applications listed in Section 1.8.2 regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development, “Building” shall not include the following: 1. Any mobilehome as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008. 2. Any manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18007. 3. Any commercial modular as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8 or any special purpose commercial modular as defined in Section 18012.5.
4. Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18010. 5. Any multifamily manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7. For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 18908.
Note: Building shall have the same meaning as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 17920 and 18908 for the applications specified in Section 1.11.
[MP] BUILDING DRAIN. The lowest piping that collects the discharge from all other drainage piping inside the house and extends 30 inches (762 mm) in developed length of pipe, beyond the exterior walls and conveys the drainage to the building sewer.
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CEBC § 101.6 High relevance — show source text
Q105.1 General. In addition to the requirements in this appendix, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multifamily manufactured homes, commercial modulars, recreational vehicles and park trailers used as emergency transportable housing shall comply with all applicable requirements in the Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2; and Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 2.
SECTION Q106—TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
Q106.1 General. Tents shall not be used to house occupants for more than 7 days unless such tents are maintained with tight wooden floors raised at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) above the ground level and are equipped with baseboards on all sides to a height of at least 6 inches (152.4 mm). Tents may be maintained with concrete slabs with the finished surface at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) above grade and equipped with curbs on all sides at least 6 inches (152.4 mm) high.
A tent shall not be considered a suitable sleeping place when it is found necessary to provide heating facilities in order to maintain a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) within such tent during the period of occupancy.
Membrane structures installed and/or assembled in accordance with Chapter 31 of this code, may be permitted to be used as emer- gency housing and emergency housing facilities, as determined by the enforcing agency.
SECTION Q107—ACCESSIBILITY
Q107.1 General. Emergency housing shall comply with the applicable requirements in Chapter 11B and/or the US Access Board Final Guidelines for Emergency Transportable Housing.
Note: The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (US Access Board) issued the Final Guidelines for Emergency Transportable Housing on May 7, 2014. The final guidelines amended the 2004 ADA Accessibility Guidelines (2004 ADAAG) and the 2004 Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) Accessibility Guidelines (2004 ABAAG) to specifically address emergency transportable housing units provided to disaster survivors by entities subject to the ADA or ABA. The final rule ensures that the emergency transportable housing units are readily accessible to and usable by disaster survivors with disabilities.
SECTION Q108—LOFTS IN EMERGENCY HOUSING
Q108.1 Minimum loft area and dimensions. Lofts used as a sleeping or living space shall meet the minimum area and dimension requirements of Sections Q108.1.1 through Q108.1.3. Q108.1.1 Minimum area. Lofts shall have a floor area of not less than 35 square feet (3.25 m [2] ).
Q108.1.2 Minimum dimensions. Lofts shall be not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) in any horizontal dimension.
Q108.1.3 Height effect on loft area. Portions of a loft with a sloping ceiling measuring less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered as contributing to the minimum required area for the loft.
Exception : Under gable roofs with a minimum slope of 6:12, portions of a loft with a sloping ceiling measuring less than 16 inches (406 mm) from the finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered as contributing to the minimum required area for the loft.
CEBC § 1.8.2. High relevance — show source text
4. See Health and Safety Code Section 18201 for “Approved” as applied to Mobilehome Parks as referenced in Section 1.8.2. 5. See Health and Safety Code Section 18862.1 for “Approved” as applied to Special Occupancy Parks as referenced in Section 1.8.2.
[A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where such organization has been approved by the code official.
[A] BUILDING. Any structure utilized or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.
Exception: [HCD 1, HCD 2 & HCD 1-AC] For applications listed in Section 1.8.2 regulated by the Department of Housing and Commu- nity Development, “Building” shall not include the following: 1. Any mobilehome as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008. 2. Any manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18007. 3. Any commercial modular as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8 or any special purpose commercial modular as defined in Section 18012.5.
4. Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and Safety Code, Section 18010.
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DEFINITIONS
5. Any multifamily manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7.
For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 18908.
Note: Building shall have the same meaning as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 17920 and 18908 for the applications speci- fied in Section 1.11.
BUILDING OFFICIAL. [BSC, DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The individual within the agency or organization charged with responsibility for compliance with the requirements of this code. For some agencies this person is termed the “enforcement agent.”
BUILDING OFFICIAL. [HCD 1, HCD 2] [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative.
CHANGE IN FUNCTION. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] See California Building Code Section 1224.3.
[A] CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY. Any of the following shall be considered as a change of occupancy where the current California Building Code requires a greater degree of safety, accessibility, structural strength, fire protection, means of egress, ventilation or sanitation than is existing in the current building or structure:
- Any change in the occupancy classification of a building or structure.
- Any change in the purpose of, or a change in the level of activity within, a building or structure.
- A change of use.
[A] CHANGE OF USE. A change in the use of a building or a portion of a building, within the same group classification, for which there is a change in application of the code requirements.
[A] CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code.
CEBC § 3112.4 High relevance — show source text
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] Greenhouses considered to be school buildings shall comply with the structural design require- ments in Chapter 16A and in accordance with Part 1, California Administrative Code, Title 24, CCR.
3112.4 Glass and glazing. Glass and glazing used in greenhouses shall comply with Section 2405.
3112.5 Light-transmitting plastics. Light-transmitting plastics shall be permitted in lieu of plain glass in greenhouses and shall comply with Section 2606.
3112.6 Membrane structures. Greenhouses that are membrane structures shall comply with Section 3102.
3112.6.1 Plastic film. Plastic films used in greenhouses shall comply with Section 3102.3.
SECTION 3113—RELOCATABLE BUILDINGS
3113.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to relocatable buildings. Relocatable buildings manufactured after the effective date of this code shall comply with the applicable provisions of this code. [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] as enforced by the enforcement agency.
Exception: This section shall not apply to manufactured housing used as dwellings.
[HCD] The provisions of Section 3113 are not applicable to commercial modulars, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multi-unit manu- factured 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 Mobilehome
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SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION
Parks Act (Health and Safety Code Section 18200 et seq.) and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2. Manufac- tured 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.
3113.1.1 Compliance. A newly constructed relocatable building shall comply with the requirements of this code for new construction. [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] as enforced by the enforcement agency. An existing relocatable building that is undergoing alteration, addition, change of occupancy or relocation shall comply with Chapter 14 of the California Existing Building Code .
Exception: [DSA-SS and DSA-SS/CC] An existing relocatable public school building that is undergoing alteration, addition or change of occupancy shall comply with Chapter 3 of the California Existing Building Code.
3113.2 Supplemental information. Supplemental information specific to a relocatable building shall be submitted to the authority having jurisdiction. It shall, as a minimum, include the following in addition to the information required by Section 105:
CEBC § 1.8.2 High relevance — show source text
BOTTLE-FILLING STATION. [DSA-AC] A fixture that is designed and intended for filling personal use drinking water bottles or containers. Such fixtures can be separate from or integral to a drinking fountain.
[BS] BRACED WALL LINE. A straight line through the building plan that represents the location of the lateral resistance provided by the wall bracing.
[BS] BRACED WALL PANEL. A full-height section of wall constructed to resist in-plane shear loads through interaction of framing members, sheathing material and anchors. The panel’s length meets the requirements of its particular bracing method and contributes toward the total amount of bracing required along its braced wall line.
[BE] BREAKOUT. For revolving doors, a process whereby wings or door panels can be pushed open manually for means of egress travel.
[BS] BRICK.
Calcium silicate (sand lime brick). A pressed and subsequently autoclaved unit that consists of sand and lime, with or without the inclusion of other materials.
Clay or shale. A solid or hollow masonry unit of clay or shale, usually formed into a rectangular prism, then burned or fired in a kiln; brick is a ceramic product.
Concrete. A concrete masonry unit made from Portland cement, water, and suitable aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials.
[A] BUILDING. Any structure utilized or intended for supporting or sheltering any occupancy.
Exception: [HCD 1, HCD 2 & HCD 1-AC] For applications listed in Section 1.8.2 regulated by the Department of Housing and Community Development, “Building” shall not include the following: 1. Any mobilehome as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008. 2. Any manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18007. 3. Any commercial modular as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8 or any special purpose commercial modular as defined in Section 18012.5.
4. Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18010. 5. Any multifamily manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7.
For additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section 18908.
Note: Building shall have the same meaning as defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 17920 and 18908 for the applications spec- ified in Section 1.11.
BUILDING AREA. See “Area, building.”
[BG] BUILDING ELEMENT. A fundamental component of building construction, specified in Table 601, which may or may not be of fire-resistance-rated construction and is constructed of materials based on the building type of construction.
BUILDING ENTRANCE ON AN ACCESSIBLE ROUTE. [HCD 1-AC] An accessible entrance to a building that is connected by an accessible route to public transportation stops, to parking or passenger loading zones, or to public streets or sidewalks, if available.
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DEFINITIONS
BUILDING, EXISTING. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] A building erected prior to the adoption of this code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.
BUILDING HEIGHT. See “Height, building.”
CEBC § 101.6 High relevance — show source text
CJ104.7 Ventilation. Emergency sleeping cabins shall be provided with means of ventilation (natural and/or mechanical) allowing for adequate air replacement, as determined by the enforcing agency.
CJ104.8 Smoke alarms. Emergency sleeping cabins shall be provided with at least one smoke alarm installed in accordance with Section R314.
CJ104.9 Carbon monoxide alarms. If an emergency sleeping cabin contains a fuel-burning appliance(s) or a fireplace(s), a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in accordance with Section R315.
SECTION CJ105—EMERGENCY TRANSPORTABLE HOUSING UNITS
CJ105.1 General. In addition to the requirements in this appendix, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multifamily manufactured homes, commercial modulars, recreational vehicles and park trailers used as emergency transportable housing shall comply with all applicable requirements in the Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2; and Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 2.
SECTION CJ106—TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
CJ106.1 General. Tents shall not be used to house occupants for more than 7 days unless such tents are maintained with tight wooden floors raised at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) above the ground level and are equipped with baseboards on all sides to a height of at least 6 inches (152.4 mm). Tents may be maintained with concrete slabs with the finished surface at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) above grade and equipped with curbs on all sides at least 6 inches (152.4 mm) high.
A tent shall not be considered a suitable sleeping place when it is found necessary to provide heating facilities in order to maintain a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) within such tent during the period of occupancy.
Membrane structures installed and/or assembled in accordance with Chapter 31 of the California Building Code, may be permitted to be used as emergency housing and emergency housing facilities, as determined by the enforcing agency.
SECTION CJ107—ACCESSIBILITY
CJ107.1 General. Emergency housing shall comply with the applicable requirements in the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, and/ or the US Access Board Final Guidelines for Emergency Transportable Housing.
Note: The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (US Access Board) issued the Final Guidelines for Emergency Transportable Housing on May 7, 2014. The final guidelines amended the 2004 ADA Accessibility Guidelines (2004 ADAAG) and the 2004 Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) Accessibility Guidelines (2004 ABAAG) to specifically address emergency transportable housing units provided to disaster survivors by entities subject to the ADA or ABA. The final rule ensures that the emergency transportable housing units are readily accessible to and usable by disaster survivors with disabilities.
SECTION CJ108—LOFTS IN EMERGENCY HOUSING
CJ108.1 Minimum loft area and dimensions. Lofts used as a sleeping or living space shall meet the minimum area and dimension requirements of Sections CJ108.1.1 through CJ108.1.3. CJ108.1.1 Minimum area. Lofts shall have a floor area of not less than 35 square feet (3.25 m [2] ).
CEBC § 18001.8 High relevance — show source text
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CJ EMERGENCY HOUSING
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
SECTION CJ101—GENERAL
CJ101.1 Scope. This appendix shall be applicable to emergency housing and emergency housing facilities, as defined in Section CJ102.
SECTION CJ102—DEFINITIONS
CJ102.1 General. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this appendix, have the meanings shown herein. Refer to Chapter 2 of this code for general definitions.
DECLARATION OF SHELTER CRISIS. The duly proclaimed existence of a situation in which a significant number of persons are without the ability to obtain shelter, resulting in a threat to their health and safety. (See Government Code Section 8698.)
DEPENDENT UNIT. Emergency housing not equipped with a kitchen area, toilet and sewage disposal system. Recreational vehicles that are not self-contained and without utility service connections shall be considered dependent units.
EMERGENCY HOUSING. Housing in a permanent or temporary structure(s), occupied during a declaration of state of emergency, local emergency or shelter crisis. Emergency housing may include, but is not limited to, buildings and structures constructed in accordance with the California Building Standards Code; and emergency sleeping cabins, emergency transportable housing units and tents constructed in accordance with this appendix.
EMERGENCY HOUSING FACILITIES. On-site common use facilities supporting emergency housing. Emergency housing facilities include, but are not limited to, kitchen areas, toilets, showers and bathrooms with running water. The use of emergency housing facilities is limited exclusively to the occupants of the emergency housing, personnel involved in operating the housing and other emergency personnel.
EMERGENCY HOUSING SITE. A site containing emergency housing and emergency housing facilities supporting the emergency housing.
EMERGENCY SLEEPING CABIN . Relocatable hard-sided structure constructed in accordance with this appendix, which may be occupied only for emergency housing if allowed by the enforcing agency.
EMERGENCY TRANSPORTABLE HOUSING UNIT. A single- or multiple-section prefabricated structure that is transportable by a vehicle and that can be installed on a permanent or temporary site in response to a need for emergency housing. Emergency transportable housing units include, but are not limited to, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multifamily manufactured homes, recreational vehi- cles and park trailers. For the purposes of this appendix, emergency transportable housing units may also include commercial modulars as defined in the Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8, if approved by the enforcing agency.
Emergency transportable housing units do not include factory-built housing as defined in the Health and Safety Code Section 19971.
LANDING PLATFORM. A landing provided as the top step of a stairway accessing a loft.
LOCAL EMERGENCY. Local Emergency as defined in the Government Code, Section 8558.
CEBC § 101.6 High relevance — show source text
Q104.6 Electrical. Emergency sleeping cabins shall be provided with all of the following installed in compliance with the California Elec- trical Code:
1. Continuous source of electricity. Exception: The source of electricity may be an emergency generator or renewable source of power such as solar or wind
power.
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APPENDIX Q—EMERGENCY HOUSING
2. At least one interior lighting fixture. 3. Electrical heating equipment listed for residential use and a dedicated receptacle outlet for the electrical heating equipment. Exception: Electrical heating equipment and a dedicated receptacle outlet for the electrical heating equipment are not required if a nonelectrical source of heating is provided. 4. At least one GFCI-protected receptacle outlet for use by the occupant(s).
Q104.7 Ventilation. Emergency sleeping cabins shall be provided with means of ventilation (natural and/or mechanical) allowing for adequate air replacement, as determined by the enforcing agency.
Q104.8 Smoke alarms. Emergency sleeping cabins shall be provided with at least one smoke alarm installed in accordance with the California Residential Code, Section R314.
Q104.9 Carbon monoxide alarms. If an emergency sleeping cabin contains a fuel-burning appliance(s) or a fireplace(s), a carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed in accordance with the California Residential Code, Section R315.
SECTION Q105—EMERGENCY TRANSPORTABLE HOUSING UNITS
Q105.1 General. In addition to the requirements in this appendix, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multifamily manufactured homes, commercial modulars, recreational vehicles and park trailers used as emergency transportable housing shall comply with all applicable requirements in the Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2; and Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 2.
SECTION Q106—TENTS AND MEMBRANE STRUCTURES
Q106.1 General. Tents shall not be used to house occupants for more than 7 days unless such tents are maintained with tight wooden floors raised at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) above the ground level and are equipped with baseboards on all sides to a height of at least 6 inches (152.4 mm). Tents may be maintained with concrete slabs with the finished surface at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) above grade and equipped with curbs on all sides at least 6 inches (152.4 mm) high.
A tent shall not be considered a suitable sleeping place when it is found necessary to provide heating facilities in order to maintain a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) within such tent during the period of occupancy.
Membrane structures installed and/or assembled in accordance with Chapter 31 of this code, may be permitted to be used as emer- gency housing and emergency housing facilities, as determined by the enforcing agency.
SECTION Q107—ACCESSIBILITY
Q107.1 General. Emergency housing shall comply with the applicable requirements in Chapter 11B and/or the US Access Board Final Guidelines for Emergency Transportable Housing.
CEBC § 18001.8 High relevance — show source text
EMERGENCY HOUSING SITE. A site containing emergency housing and emergency housing facilities supporting the emergency housing.
EMERGENCY SLEEPING CABIN . Relocatable hard-sided structure constructed in accordance with this appendix, which may be occupied only for emergency housing if allowed by the enforcing agency.
EMERGENCY TRANSPORTABLE HOUSING UNIT. A single- or multiple-section prefabricated structure that is transportable by a vehicle and that can be installed on a permanent or temporary site in response to a need for emergency housing. Emergency transportable housing units include, but are not limited to, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multifamily manufactured homes, recreational vehi- cles and park trailers. For the purposes of this appendix, emergency transportable housing units may also include commercial modulars as defined in the Health and Safety Code Section 18001.8, if approved by the enforcing agency.
Emergency transportable housing units do not include factory-built housing as defined in the Health and Safety Code Section 19971.
LANDING PLATFORM. A landing provided as the top step of a stairway accessing a loft.
LOCAL EMERGENCY. Local Emergency as defined in the Government Code, Section 8558.
LOFT. A floor level located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the main floor and open to it on at least one side with a ceiling height of less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm), used as a living or sleeping space.
MANUFACTURED HOME. A structure designed to be used as a single-family dwelling, as defined in the Health and Safety Code, Section 18007.
MEMBRANE STRUCTURE. An air-inflated, air-supported, cable or frame-covered structure, not otherwise defined as a tent. (See Chapter 31 of this code.)
MOBILEHOME. A structure designed to be used as a single-family dwelling, as defined in the Health and Safety Code, Section 18008.
MULTIFAMILY MANUFACTURED HOME. A structure designed to contain not less than two dwelling units, as defined in the Health and Safety Code, Section 18008.7.
PARK TRAILER. A trailer designed for human habitation that meets all requirements in the Health and Safety Code, Section 18009.3.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE. A motor home, travel trailer, truck camper or camping trailer, with or without motive power, designed for human habitation, that meets all requirements in the Health and Safety Code, Section 18010.
STATE OF EMERGENCY. State of Emergency as defined in the Government Code, Section 8558.
TENT. A structure, enclosure or shelter, with or without sidewalls or drops, constructed of fabric or pliable material supported by any manner except by air or the contents that it protects.
SECTION Q103 — EMERGENCY HOUSING
Q103.1 General. Emergency sleeping cabins, emergency transportable housing units, membrane structures and tents constructed and/ or assembled in accordance with this appendix, shall be occupied only during declaration of state of emergency, local emergency or shelter crisis.
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Frequently asked questions
Are all factory‑built units excluded from Chapter 14?
No. Only the specific categories named in § 1401.1 (commercial modulars, manufactured homes, mobilehomes, multi‑unit manufactured housing, and special‑purpose commercial modulars) are excluded. Other factory‑built relocatable structures may still be covered by Chapter 14.
If I move a manufactured home, do I need a CEBC Chapter 14 inspection?
No — § 1401.1 excludes manufactured homes. You must follow the Mobilehome Parks Act, Title 25 CCR, and federal manufactured‑home labeling/installation rules instead.
Where do I find the exact legal definitions of “manufactured home” or “commercial modular”?
The CEBC points to the Health and Safety Code sections cited in § 1401.1 (for example, HSC §§ 18007, 18008, 18001.8, etc.). The CEBC text does not reproduce those statutory definitions; consult the Health and Safety Code and Title 25 CCR.
What if a unit looks like a manufactured home but lacks a data plate or certification label?
Labels/data plates are significant legal indicators. § 1401.1 specifically references data plate/certification requirements (CFR Title 24, Part 3280; HSC § 18032). If labels are missing, enforcing agencies (HCD or local authority) will determine classification and applicable rules; do not assume Chapter 14 applies without confirmation.
Who enforces the non‑Chapter‑14 rules for excluded units?
Enforcement for manufactured homes, mobilehomes, and commercial modulars generally falls to the Department of Housing and Community Development and the authorities named in the Mobilehome Parks Act and Title 25 CCR, as pointed out in § 1401.1.
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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