CEBC · California Existing Building Code

What foundation system requirements apply to relocated buildings?

If you move a building, its foundation and how it’s attached must meet the California Building Code or California Residential Code for the new site — including anchorage, seismic/wind/snow load checks, flood rules if applicable, and any strengthening required after inspection.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The foundation system of any relocated building must meet the applicable new-construction foundation rules of either the California Building Code or the California Residential Code — whichever applies to the building type. This requirement is stated in § 1402.2 and the connection details are addressed in § 1402.2.1. The authority also may require inspections and repairs before final approval per § 1402.7.

The single most important rule: a building moved to a new site must sit on a foundation that complies with the CBC or CRC for that building — and must be properly connected to it. § 1402.2

Requirements in detail

Which code applies

  • If the relocated structure is within the scope of the model building code, apply the California Building Code (CBC); if it is a dwelling governed by the residential provisions, apply the California Residential Code (CRC). This is the baseline requirement in § 1402.2.

Connection to the foundation

  • The connection of the relocated building to the foundation must comply with the CBC or CRC, as applicable (§ 1402.2.1). That means anchorages, sill plate attachments, and other connection details must meet the same code provisions required for new construction at the new site.

Inspections and repairs after relocation

  • The code official may inspect, or require a registered professional to inspect, structural parts of the relocated building to verify there is no structural damage; any required repairs must be completed prior to final approval (§ 1402.7).

Loads and other design criteria to check at the new site

  • The relocated building must meet applicable wind, seismic and snow load provisions of CBC/CRC for the new location — unless specific exceptions apply (see next section). See § 1402.3, § 1402.4, and § 1402.5.

Foundation condition and seismic-strengthening guidance

  • Appendix guidance flags certain foundation conditions as structural weaknesses (for example: sill plates or floor framing supported directly on the ground without a code-conforming foundation, or perimeter foundations that are not continuous) and calls for strengthening per Appendix A (Sections A303 and A304) when present. If such weaknesses exist, they must be strengthened in accordance with the applicable provisions or as required by the code official.

Decision-relevant dimensions / thresholds (table)

Decision factor Threshold / value What it means for a relocated building Code Reference
Which code to use N/A — building type determines this Apply CBC or CRC foundation provisions for new construction at the new site § 1402.2
Connection to foundation N/A — follow CBC/CRC anchorage rules Sill plates, anchors, hold-downs and other connectors must meet CBC/CRC requirements for new work § 1402.2.1
Wind-load exception 10 percent stress increase Detached 1–2 family dwellings & Group U where wind at new site not higher than previous; structural elements OK if stress ≤ 10% increase § 1402.3
Seismic exception 10 percent stress increase; Seismic Design Categories A, B (and C for detached 1–2 family) If seismic loads at new site are not higher than previous, some small buildings in low SD categories may be excepted; otherwise comply with CBC/CRC seismic rules § 1402.4
Snow-load exception 5 percent stress increase If snow loads at new site are higher, comply; elements OK if stress ≤ 5% increase § 1402.5
Flood hazard N/A — depends on site If moved into a flood hazard area, comply with CBC §1612 or CRC R306 for flood design § 1402.6
Required inspections N/A — code official discretion Code official can require professional inspection and repairs before final approval § 1402.7
Recognized foundation weaknesses continuous perimeter foundation missing; sill on ground; wood-post-only perimeter These are treated as structural weaknesses and must be strengthened per Appendix A A303 / A304

Practical implications for design and permitting

  • Design the new foundation as if it were new construction for the building type and site (soil, wind, seismic, flood) because the code requires CBC/CRC compliance at the new location (§ 1402.2 & § 1402.2.1).
  • If the building contains prescriptively defined structural weaknesses (Appendix A), strengthen them per A304 details when required by the code official.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Detached one- and two-family dwellings and Group U occupancies: wind provisions may be excepted when wind at the new location is not higher than at the previous location (§ 1402.3, exception 1).
  • Seismic exceptions: structures in Seismic Design Categories A and B, and detached one- and two-family dwellings in SD A, B and C, may be excepted from some seismic relocation requirements when seismic loads at the new site are not higher than at the previous site (§ 1402.4, exception 1). If seismic loads increase, full compliance is required.
  • Small stress increases: individual structural elements whose imposed stress is not increased beyond 10 percent (wind/seismic) or 5 percent (snow) may be exempted from new-site load provisions per the exceptions in § 1402.3–1402.5.
  • Flood hazard: if the new site is in a flood hazard area, the building must comply with flood design rules in CBC §1612 or CRC R306 even if other exceptions apply (§ 1402.6).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming a moved building is automatically “grandfathered” and needs no new foundation work — the CEBC requires compliance with CBC/CRC foundation provisions at the new site (§ 1402.2).
  • Comparing loads incorrectly — the exemptions depend on whether site loads at the new location are higher than the previous location; if they are higher, full compliance is required (§ 1402.3–1402.5).
  • Overlooking the connection requirement — even when a foundation exists, the connection of the building to the foundation must meet CBC/CRC anchorage requirements (§ 1402.2.1).
  • Failing to address flood requirements when moving into a flood zone — flood rules are controlled by CBC §1612 / CRC R306 per § 1402.6.
  • Ignoring Appendix A flags — leaving sill plates on the ground or using noncontinuous perimeter foundations without strengthening can be treated as structural weaknesses that must be corrected (Appendix A303/A304).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A detached single-family wood-frame house is moved from Site A to Site B.

  • At Site A (original): house was in Seismic Design Category B and had a perimeter concrete foundation with sill plates bolted per older practice.
  • Site B (new): soil conditions are comparable, but Site B is in Seismic Design Category D and has higher mapped seismic forces (estimated 20% higher lateral seismic demands).

Apply the CEBC:

  1. Because this is a detached one-family dwelling, the relocation rules are in Chapter 14 and the foundation must comply with the applicable code for new construction — here, CRC or CBC provisions for foundations and seismic resisting elements apply at the new site (§ 1402.2, § 1402.2.1).
  2. The seismic load at Site B is higher (20% increase). The seismic exception in § 1402.4 only applies when seismic loads at the new location are not higher than the previous location; therefore the house must be designed/altered to meet the CBC/CRC seismic provisions required at Site B (no exception).
  3. That means provide a foundation and connections that meet new-construction anchorage and lateral-resistance requirements (sill plate anchorage, hold-downs, cripple-wall bracing or shear panels, etc.) per CBC/CRC; document details on plans and submit for permit as new foundation work (§ 1402.2.1, Appendix A guidance where applicable).
  4. Expect the code official to require inspection or a registered professional’s report verifying that the building’s structural members and connections were not damaged during the move; any repairs identified must be completed before final approval (§ 1402.7).

Related provisions

  • § 1402.2 — Foundation (relocated buildings)
  • § 1402.2.1 — Connection to the foundation (relocated buildings)
  • § 1402.3 — Wind loads (relocated buildings)
  • § 1402.4 — Seismic loads (relocated buildings)
  • § 1402.5 — Snow loads (relocated buildings)
  • § 1402.6 — Flood hazard areas (relocated buildings) — references CBC §1612 / CRC R306
  • § 1402.7 — Required inspection and repairs (relocated buildings)
  • Appendix A, A303 / A304 — Structural weaknesses and strengthening requirements (sill-on-ground, noncontinuous perimeters, cripple walls, anchoring details)
  • CRC Appendix BO, BO107.1 — Relocated residential buildings requirements (residential-specific guidance)

Code references

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

  • CEBC § 1402.2 High relevance — show source text

    [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.

    [BS] 1402.6 Flood hazard areas. If relocated or moved into a flood hazard area, structures shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 14-3

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

    RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS

    [BS] 1402.7 Required inspection and repairs. The code official shall be authorized to inspect, or to require approved professionals to inspect at the expense of the owner, the various structural parts of a relocated building to verify that structural components and connections have not sustained structural damage. Any repairs required by the code official as a result of such inspection shall be made prior to the final approval.

    14-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 15 – CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting
  • 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.

  • CBC § 121 High relevance — show source text

    20|5| |W-12-M-28|12″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2,
    19, 26, 31, 41; no facings.|80 psi|1 hr
    30 min||1||1, 20|11/2| |W-12-M-29|12″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2,
    18, 26, 31, 41; no facings.|80 psi|4 hrs||1||1, 20|4| |W-12-M-30|12″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 3,
    19, 27, 31, 43; no facings.|80 psi|2 hrs||1||1, 20|2| |W-12-M-31|12″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 3,
    18, 27, 31, 43; no facings.|80 psi|5 hrs||1||1, 20|5| |W-12-M-32|12″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2,
    19, 26, 32, 43; no facings.|80 psi|25 min||1||1, 20|1/3| |W-12-M-33|12″|Cored concrete masonry; see Notes 2,
    18, 26, 32, 43; no facings.|80 psi|25 min||1||1, 20|1/3| |W-12-M-34|121/2″|Core: solid clay or shale brick;1/2″ of 1:3
    sanded gypsum plaster facings on one
    side.|160 psi|10 hrs||1||1, 44|10| |W-12-M-35|121/2″|Core: solid clay or shale brick;1/2″ of 1:3
    sanded gypsum plaster facings on one
    side.|N/A|13 hrs||1||1|13| |W-12-M-36|121/2″|Core: hollow rolok of clay or shale;1/2″
    of 1:3 sanded gypsum plaster facings on
    one side.|160 psi|6 hrs||1||1, 44|6| |W-12-M-37|121/2″|Core: hollow rolok bak of clay or shale;
    1/2″ of 1:3 sanded gypsum plaster
    facings on one side.|160 psi|10 hrs||1||1, 44|10| |W-12-M-38|121/2″|Core: concrete;1/2″ of 1:3 sanded
    gypsum plaster facings on one side.|160 psi|14 hrs||1||1, 44|14| |W-12-M-39|121/2″|Core: sand-lime brick;1/2″ of 1:3 sanded
    gypsum plaster facings on one side.|160 psi|10 hrs||1||1, 44|10|

    RESOURCE A-44 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    RESOURCE A—GUIDELINES ON FIRE RATINGS OF ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND ASSEMBLIES

  • CEBC § 1.3 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION BO106—ADDITION

    BO106.1 General. Where existing buildings with the addition are within the scope of this code, additions shall comply with this section and other applicable provisions of this code for new construction or as permitted by this appendix. Engineered design in accordance with Section R301.1.3 shall be permitted to meet the requirements of this section.

    BO106.2 Structure for horizontal additions. Where an addition involves new construction attached to an existing building, the new construction shall meet all of the structural requirements of this code for new construction. Alterations to the existing building shall comply with the requirements governing alterations within this code. In wood light-frame additions, connection of the structural components shall be permitted to be provided using wall top plates and addition studs that abut the existing building. Wall top plates shall be lapped and spliced in accordance with Section R602.3.2. Abutting studs shall be fastened in accordance with Table R602.3(1).

    Exception: The addition structure shall be permitted to be connected to the existing building in accordance with accepted engineering practice.

    BO106.3 Structure for vertical additions. Where an addition involves new construction that adds a story to any part of the existing building or vertically increases the height of any part of the existing building, the new construction and the existing building together shall be shown to comply with, or altered to comply with, all of the structural requirements of this code for new construction.

    Exception: Where the new structure and the existing structure together are evaluated in accordance with accepted engineering practice and are shown to be sufficient to support the combined loads from the new structure and existing structure, no structural alterations are required.

    SECTION BO107—RELOCATED BUILDINGS

    BO107.1 General. Residential buildings or structures moved into or within the jurisdiction are not required to comply with the requirements for new construction under this code, provided they comply with all of the following conditions:

    1. The building shall be safe for human occupancy as determined by the California Fire Code and the International Property Maintenance Code .

    2. Any repair, alteration or change of use undertaken within the relocated structure shall comply with the requirements of this code applicable to the work being performed.

    3. Any field fabricated elements shall comply with the applicable requirements of this code.

    SECTION BO108—REFERENCED STANDARDS

    BO108.1 General. See Table BO108.1 for standards that are referenced in various sections of this appendix. Standards are listed by the standard identification with the effective date, the standard title and the section or sections of this appendix that reference the standard.

    TABLE BO108.1—REFERENCED STANDARDS Col2 Col3
    STANDARD ACRONYM STANDARD NAME SECTION HEREIN REFERENCED
    CEBC—25 California Existing Building Code BO102.8
    CFC—25 California Fire Code BO107.1
    IPMC—24 International Property Maintenance Code® BO107.1

    APPENDIX BO-6 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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

    CA RESERVED

    2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE APPENDIX CA-1

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

    APPENDIX CA-2 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

  • CBC § 165 High relevance — show source text

    |80 psi|6 hrs||1||1, 20|6| |W-16-M-23|165/8″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 8, 15, 18; facings: side 1, see Note 17; side
    2, none.|80 psi|10
    hrs||1||1, 20|10| |W-16-M-24|165/8″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 8, 15, 19; facings: fire side only; see Note
    17.|80 psi|7 hrs||1||1, 20|7| |W-16-M-25|165/8″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 6, 16, 18; facings: side 1, see Note 17; side
    2, none.|80 psi|11
    hrs||1||1, 20|11| |W-16-M-26|165/8″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 6, 16, 19; facings: fire side only; see Note
    17.|80 psi|8 hrs||1||1, 20|8| |W-17-M-27|171/4″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 7, 9, 18; facings: sides 1 and 2, see Note
    17.|80 psi|8 hrs||1||1, 20|8| |W-17-M-28|171/4″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 7, 10, 18; facings: sides 1 and 2, see Note
    17.|80 psi|9 hrs||1||1, 20|9| |W-17-M-29|171/4″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 7, 11, 18; facings: sides 1 and 2, see Note
    17.|80 psi|10
    hrs||1||1, 20|10| |W-17-M-30|171/4″|Core: clay or shale structural tile; see Notes
    4, 8, 15, 18; facings: sides 1 and 2, see Note
    17.|80 psi|12
    hrs||1||1, 20|12|

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE RESOURCE A-49

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

    RESOURCE A—GUIDELINES ON FIRE RATINGS OF ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND ASSEMBLIES

  • 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

  • CEBC § 11-3 High relevance — show source text

    1101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

    1102 Heights and Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3

    1103 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4

    1104 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4

    CHAPTER 12 HISTORIC BUILDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1

    xviii 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    CHAPTER 13 PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS. . 13-3

    1301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3

    1302 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3

    1303 Acceptance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4

    1304 Investigation and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4

    1305 Scoring and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4

    1306 Building Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14

    1307 Evaluation of Building Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16

    CHAPTER 14 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS . . . . . . 14-3

    1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3

    1402 Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3

    CHAPTER 15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS . . . . . . . . . . 15-3

    1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3

    1502 Owner’s Responsibility for Fire Protection . . . . . . . 15-3

    1503 Sanitary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4

  • CEBC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    [BS] A303.1 General. For the purposes of this chapter, any of the following conditions shall be deemed a structural weakness:

    1. Sill plates or floor framing that are supported directly on the ground without a foundation system that conforms to the building code.
    2. A perimeter foundation system that is constructed only of wood posts supported on isolated pad footings.
    3. Perimeter foundation systems that are not continuous.

    Exceptions:

    1. Existing single-story exterior walls not exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm) in length, forming an extension of floor area beyond the line of an existing continuous perimeter foundation.
    2. Porches, storage rooms and similar spaces not containing fuel-burning appliances.
    3. A perimeter foundation system that is constructed of unreinforced masonry or stone.
    4. Sill plates that are not connected to the foundation or that are connected with less than what is required by the building code.

    Exception: Where approved by the code official, connections of a sill plate to the foundation made with other than sill bolts shall be accepted if the capacity of the connection is equivalent to that required by the building code. 6. Cripple walls that are not braced in accordance with the requirements of Section A304.4 and Table A304.3.1, or cripple walls not braced with diagonal sheathing or wood structural panels in accordance with the building code.

    SECTION A304—STRENGTHENING REQUIREMENTS

    [BS] A304.1 General.

    [BS] A304.1.1 Scope. The structural weaknesses noted in Section A303 shall be strengthened in accordance with the requirements of this section. Strengthening work may include both new construction and alteration of existing construction. Except as provided herein, all strengthening work and materials shall comply with the applicable provisions of the California Building Code .

    [BS] A304.1.2 Condition of existing wood materials. Existing wood materials that will be a part of the strengthening work (such as sills, studs and sheathing) shall be in a sound condition and free from defects that substantially reduce the capacity of the member. Any wood material found to contain fungus infection shall be removed and replaced with new material. Any wood material found to be infested with insects or to have been infested with insects shall be strengthened or replaced with new materials to provide a net dimension of sound wood equal to or greater than its undamaged original dimension.

    [BS] A304.1.3 Floor joists not parallel to foundations. Floor joists framed perpendicular or at an angle to perimeter foundations shall be restrained either by an existing nominal 2-inch-wide (51 mm) continuous rim joist or by a nominal 2-inch-wide (51 mm) full-depth block between alternate joists in one- and two-story buildings, and between each joist in three-story buildings. Existing blocking for multiple-story buildings must occur at each joist space above a braced cripple wall panel.

    Existing connections at the top and bottom edges of an existing rim joist or blocking need not be verified in one story buildings. In multiple-story buildings, the existing top edge connection need not be verified; however, the bottom edge connection to either the foundation sill plate or the top plate of a cripple wall shall be verified. The minimum existing bottom edge connection shall consist of 8d toenails spaced 6 inches (152 mm) apart for a continuous rim joist, or three 8d toenails per block. Where this minimum bottom edge-connection is not present or cannot be verified, a supplemental connection installed as shown in Figure A304.1.3 or A304.1.4(2) shall be provided.

  • CEBC § 1.1.3 High relevance — show source text

    see Note 35.|N/A|2 hrs||1|||2| |W-6-M-55|61/2″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 46, 51, 54;
    facings: one side; see Note 35.|N/A|2 hrs
    30 min||1|||21/2| |W-6-M-56|61/2″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 46, 53, 54;
    facings: one side; see Note 35.|N/A|4 hrs||1|||4| |W-6-M-57|61/2″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 47, 53, 54;
    facings: one side; see Note 35.|N/A|3 hrs||1|||3| |W-6-M-58|61/2″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 47, 51, 54;
    facings: one side; see Note 35.|N/A|2 hrs||1|||2| |W-6-M-59|61/2″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 47, 50, 54;
    facings: one side; see Note 35.|N/A|1 hr
    45 min||1|||13/4| |W-7-M-60|7″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 46, 53, 54;
    facings: both sides; see Note 35.|N/A|5 hrs||1|||5| |W-7-M-61|7″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 46, 51, 54;
    facings: both sides; see Note 35.|N/A|3 hrs
    30 min||1|||31/2| |W-7-M-62|7″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 46, 50, 54;
    facings: both sides; see Note 35.|N/A|2 hrs 30
    min||1|||21/2| |W-7-M-63|7″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 47, 53, 54;
    facings: both sides; see Note 35.|N/A|4 hrs||1|||4| |W-7-M-64|7″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 47, 51, 54;
    facings: both sides; see Note 35.|N/A|2 hrs 30
    min||1|||21/2| |W-7-M-65|7″|Core: hollow concrete units; see Notes 47, 50, 54;
    facings: both sides; see Note 35.|N/A|2 hrs||1|||2| |W-6-M-66|6″|Concrete wall with 4″ × 4″ No. 6 wire fabric (welded)
    near wall center for reinforcement.|300
    psi|2 hrs 30
    min|||43|2|21/2|

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE RESOURCE A-31

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

    RESOURCE A—GUIDELINES ON FIRE RATINGS OF ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND ASSEMBLIES

    TABLE 1.1.3—continued

  • CEBC § 1.2. High relevance — show source text

    1.2. If the addition constitutes substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 1.3. If the addition does not constitute substantial improvement, the addition is not required to comply with the flood design requirements for new construction, provided that both of the following apply: 1.3.1. The addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity of the existing building with the flood-resistant construction requirements. 1.3.2. The lowest floor of the addition shall be at or above the lower of the lowest floor of the existing building or the lowest floor elevation required in Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 2. For horizontal additions that are not structurally interconnected to the existing building: 2.1. The addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Resi- dential Code, as applicable. 2.2. If the addition and all other proposed work, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building and the addition shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 3. For vertical additions and all other proposed work that, when combined, constitute substantial improvement, the existing building shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. 4. For a new foundation, replacement foundation or a foundation raised or extended upward, the foundation shall comply with Section 1612 of the California Building Code, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.

    SECTION 1104—ENERGY CONSERVATION

    1104.1 Minimum requirements. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with applicable provisions of the California Energy Code (Part 6, Title 24, C.C.R).

    11-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    12 HISTORIC BUILDINGS

    Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California.

    Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 12-1

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

    12-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 13 – PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS

    Not adopted by the State of California (May be available for adoption by local ordinance. See Section 1.1.11.) (See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.)

  • CEBC § 3-3 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3-3

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

    PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    members added as part of the alteration shall comply with the California Building Code . This exception shall not apply to the following:

    1. Alterations for accessibility required by the California Building Code, Chapter 11A.

    2. Alterations that constitute substantial improvement in flood hazard areas, which shall comply with Sections 503.2, 701.3 or 1303.1.3.

    3. Structural provisions of Section 304, Chapter 5 or to the structural provisions of Sections 706, 805 and 906.

    301.3.1 Prescriptive compliance. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 5 of this code in buildings complying with the California Fire Code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

    Exception: Hospital buildings removed from acute care service, skilled nursing facilities, intermediate-care facilities, correctional treatment centers and acute psychiatric hospitals [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 and 5]. The provisions of adopted sections in Chapters 3 through 5 shall control the alteration, repair and change of occupancy or function of existing structures for applications listed in Section 1.10.1, 1.10.2, 1.10.4 and 1.10.5 regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD). Refer to Chapter 3A for services, systems and utilities that serve OSHPD 1 buildings.

    301.3.2 Work area compliance method. A lterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with the applicable requirements of Chapters 6 through 12 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

    301.3.3 Performance compliance method. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy complying with Chapter 13 of this code shall be considered in compliance with the provisions of this code.

    Note: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] The provisions contained in Chapter 13 are not adopted by HCD, but may be available for adoption by a local ordinance. (See Section 1.1.11.)

    301.4 Relocated or moved buildings. Relocated or moved buildings shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 14.

    SECTION 302—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    302.1 Dangerous conditions. The code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.

    302.1.1 Dangerous conditions. [BSC] Regardless of the extent of structural or nonstructural damage, the code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.

    302.2 Additional codes. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in this code and the California Energy Code, California Fire Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code, California Residential Code and California Electrical Code . Where provisions of the other codes conflict with provisions of this code, the provisions of this code shall take precedence.

  • CEBC § 13-4 High relevance — show source text

    1304 Investigation and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4

    1305 Scoring and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4

    1306 Building Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14

    1307 Evaluation of Building Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16

    CHAPTER 14 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS . . . . . . 14-3

    1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3

    1402 Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3

    CHAPTER 15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS . . . . . . . . . . 15-3

    1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3

    1502 Owner’s Responsibility for Fire Protection . . . . . . . 15-3

    1503 Sanitary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4

    1504 Protection of Pedestrians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4

    1505 Protection of Adjoining Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-5

    1506 Temporary Use of Streets, Alleys and Public Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6

    1507 Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6

    1508 Means of Egress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6

    1509 Standpipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6

    1510 Automatic Sprinkler System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6

    1511 Accessibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7

    1512 Water Supply for Fire Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7

    CHAPTER 16 REFERENCED STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-3

    APPENDIX A GUIDELINES FOR THE SEISMIC RETROFIT

Frequently asked questions

Who decides whether the foundation meets code after a move?

The local code official. The official may perform inspections or require an approved professional to inspect and report; repairs required by that inspection must be completed before final approval (§ 1402.7).

If I move a house a short distance within the same city, do I still need a new foundation?

Yes. The foundation system at the new location must comply with CBC/CRC provisions for that site — distance moved is not itself an exemption (§ 1402.2, § 1402.2.1).

Can I reuse the existing foundation when moving a house onto it?

You may reuse or adapt an existing foundation only if it complies with CBC/CRC requirements for the structure at the new site and if the building is properly connected per § 1402.2.1; otherwise you must construct a compliant foundation.

What if the new site has higher seismic or wind loads?

If loads at the new location are higher, the building must comply with the CBC/CRC wind or seismic provisions for the new location. Exceptions in § 1402.3–1402.5 apply only when loads are not higher or when stress increases are within the stated small-percent limits.

Are floodplain rules different for relocated buildings?

Yes. If the building is moved into a flood hazard area it must comply with CBC §1612 or CRC R306 as applicable; this is called out in § 1402.6.

More in California Existing Building Code

Ask about the CEBC

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Existing Building Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the CEBC

Where must a relocated building be located on the lot?

How must a relocated building be connected to its foundation?

Site, foundation and connections

California Existing Building Code