CEBC · California Existing Building Code
What specific procedures or Appendix A options can be used instead of full ASCE 41?
If your building is **state‑owned** and falls into the construction types covered by Appendix A, the CEBC lets you use **Appendix A Chapter A1 (URM)** or **A2 (RC/RM wall anchorage)** instead of a full ASCE 41 evaluation (see **§ 319.1.1**). Non‑state projects may use Appendix A only under the CEBC’s **reduced seismic criteria** (limited to Risk Category I or II) — check **§ 304.3.2** and the exclusions in **§ 319.7** before choosing this route.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires
The California Existing Building Code permits limited alternatives to full ASCE 41 for certain building types and circumstances. In particular, Appendix A, Chapter A1 (unreinforced masonry) and Chapter A2 (wall anchorage for RC / RM walls with flexible diaphragms) are allowed as specific procedures in lieu of a full ASCE 41 evaluation when their scope and limitations are met. The primary controlling provision is § 319.1.1 (state‑owned buildings) and the broader allowance for Appendix A under reduced seismic criteria appears in § 304.3.2.
For state‑owned buildings of the applicable construction types, the CEBC authorizes use of Appendix A Chapters A1 or A2 instead of full ASCE 41 evaluations — see § 319.1.1.
Requirements in detail
Which Appendix A chapters are referenced by the CEBC
- Chapter A1 — Seismic Strengthening Provisions for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings. Allowed as a specific procedure for the building types covered. § 319.1.1.
- Chapter A2 — Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Reinforced Concrete and Reinforced Masonry Wall Buildings with Flexible Diaphragms. Allowed as a specific procedure for the building types covered. § 319.1.1.
Who may use these Appendix A procedures (two different pathways)
- For state‑owned buildings, Appendix A Chapters A1 and A2 may be used without peer review to comply with seismic performance requirements for Risk Category I, II or III buildings. See § 319.1.1.
- For other situations the CEBC also allows use of applicable Appendix A chapters as part of the Reduced Seismic Criteria option (not full ASCE 41) — but this reduced‑criteria allowance is limited to Risk Category I or II per § 304.3.2 (see note in the table and chapter list).
Decision table — when Appendix A or other simplified procedures are permitted
| Decision dimension | Allowed option (instead of full ASCE 41) | Limitations / Notes | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building ownership = state‑owned | Use Appendix A, Chapter A1 (URM bearing wall) or Chapter A2 (RC/RM walls w/ flexible diaphragms) without peer review | Applies to Risk Category I, II or III for the listed construction types; only for the building types the chapters cover | § 319.1.1 |
| Any ownership, seeking reduced seismic criteria (non‑full ASCE 41 path) | Use applicable Appendix A chapter(s) listed in § 304.3.2 | Appendix A chapters permitted under reduced criteria are limited to Risk Category I or II and only for the specific chapter scopes (A1, A2, A3, A4 per § 304.3.2) | § 304.3.2 |
| Building with exclusions (see irregularities, special systems, tall buildings, etc.) | Must use Method B (and typically full ASCE 41 where required) — Appendix A not appropriate | See the list of conditions requiring Method B (prestressed/precast elements, irregular buildings, Risk Category IV, height limits, isolation, nonlinear analyses, etc.) | § 319.7 |
| Any situation where ASCE 41 modifications apply | Even if ASCE 41 is used, CEBC includes modifications and stricter data/testing requirements (see Chapter 304A modifications) | Those modifications affect how ASCE 41 is applied in California; Appendix A remains separate alternative where allowed | See ASCE‑modification notes in CEBC (Ch. 304A) |
How Appendix A use interacts with the CEBC compliance methods
- The CEBC provides three main methods (Method A, Method B, and the state‑specific Appendix A exceptions). § 319.1 sets the overall selection rules; § 319.1.1 is the controlling allowance for Appendix A alternatives for state‑owned buildings.
- The Appendix A chapters are listed in CEBC Appendix A and are also cited in the reduced criteria options in § 304.3.2 (Chapter A1 for URM, A2 for wall anchorage in RC/RM with flexible diaphragms, etc.).
Exceptions & special cases
- The Appendix A allowances in § 319.1.1 were written specifically for state‑owned buildings; using those same Appendix A procedures for private or non‑state projects without invoking the reduced criteria option may not be permitted — verify whether the project qualifies under § 304.3.2 (reduced criteria). § 319.1.1 and § 304.3.2 govern these pathways.
- Buildings that meet any of the special‑condition exclusions in § 319.7 must use Method B (and typically full Level‑2/3 ASCE 41 where required). Key exclusions include: prestressed/post‑tensioned or precast components; irregular configuration; Risk Category IV; seismic isolation or damping systems; buildings > 240 ft; undefined/hybrid systems; or when nonlinear procedures are required. If any apply, Appendix A is not appropriate. § 319.7.
- Appendix A chapters have their own scopes and subject‑specific limitations (for example, A1 is for unreinforced masonry bearing walls; A2 is for wall anchorage in RC/RM walls with flexible diaphragms). Confirm the building type is within the chapter scope before using the procedure. § 319.1.1 and § 304.3.2.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Appendix A chapters are a blanket substitute for ASCE 41 for all buildings — they are limited by building type, risk category and ownership (see § 319.1.1 and § 304.3.2).
- Failing to check the § 319.7 exclusions (prestressed/precast, irregular, tall buildings, Risk Category IV, isolation systems). If one of those conditions exists, Method B / full ASCE 41 path is required.
- Confusing the “no peer review” statement in § 319.1.1 (which applies to the listed Appendix A procedures for state‑owned buildings) with general projects — many other projects still require peer review under Method B.
- Mixing the reduced seismic criteria pathway (Table/§ 304.3.2 listing Appendix A chapters for Risk Category I/II) with the state‑owned exception (§ 319.1.1) without checking which pathway is being relied on.
Worked example — applying the rule with a concrete scenario
Scenario: A state‑owned 2‑story historic unreinforced masonry (URM) bearing wall building is assigned Risk Category II. The owner asks whether the design team can use Appendix A instead of a full ASCE 41 Tier 3 evaluation.
Step 1 — Confirm ownership and applicability: The building is state‑owned, so § 319.1.1 allows the specific Appendix A procedures (A1 for URM bearing wall buildings) to be used without peer review for Risk Category I, II or III. This means Chapter A1 is an allowed route in lieu of full ASCE 41 for that building type.
Step 2 — Confirm chapter scope: Because the building is a URM bearing wall building, it fits the scope of Chapter A1; proceed to apply the Chapter A1 strengthening provisions per Appendix A. § 319.1.1.
Step 3 — Check exclusions: Verify none of the § 319.7 exclusions apply (e.g., building is not Risk Category IV, not >240 ft, not seismically isolated, no prestressed/precast components). If an exclusion applied, Appendix A could not be used and Method B/full ASCE 41 would be required. In our scenario none apply, so Appendix A1 may be used. § 319.7.
Step 4 — Documentation and design: Apply the procedures and acceptance criteria in Appendix A, Chapter A1 (observe any CEBC Chapter 304A/ASCE modifications where relevant). Prepare the drawings and calculations per the Appendix and submit — since § 319.1.1 authorizes no peer review for these specific Appendix A uses on state‑owned buildings, a peer reviewer is not required by that section. § 319.1.1.
Summary result: For this specific state‑owned URM, you may apply Appendix A, Chapter A1 instead of a full ASCE 41 evaluation, provided the building remains within the Chapter A1 scope and no § 319.7 exclusions exist.
Related provisions
- § 319.1 — Basis and choices for seismic evaluation and design (Method A, Method B, or state‑specific procedures).
- § 319.1.1 — Specific procedures: Appendix A Chapters A1 and A2 for state‑owned buildings (primary controlling clause).
- § 304.3.2 — Reduced seismic criteria; lists Applicable Appendix A chapters and their Risk Category limits.
- § 319.7 — Conditions that require Method B (where Appendix A / simplified procedures are not permitted).
- CEBC Chapter 304A and related modifications that change how ASCE 41 is applied within California (relevant if ASCE 41 is selected).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 41-23. High relevance — show source text
Exception: Evaluation procedure of Article 11, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code shall be used for seismic evalua- tion of NPC 2, NPC 3, NPC 4 or NPC 4D and NPC 5, where specific procedure is not outlined in ASCE 41-23. Administrative and permitting provisions outlined in Article 11, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code shall apply.
304A.3.4.8 NPC-4 or NPC 4D and NPC-5 using ASCE 41-23: Nonstructural components for Operational Nonstructural Perfor- mance Level (N-A) in ASCE 41-23 Table 2-2 or NPC-4/NPC 4D shall satisfy the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction. Nonstructural components for NPC-5 shall satisfy Operational Performance Level N-A/NPC-4/NPC 4D and California Building Code Section 1617A.1.40 Items 1 & 2.
304A.3.5 Modifications to ASCE 41-13 for SPC-2 and SPC-4D. The text of ASCE 41-13 shall be modified as indicated in Sections 304A.3.5.1 through 304A.3.5.17.
304A.3.5.1 ASCE 41-13 Section 1.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 1.1 with the following:
Seismic evaluations shall be performed for performance objective specified in Section 304A.3.4 of this code (CEBC) using proce- dure of this standard (ASCE 41) as follows:
1. Structural components shall be evaluated in accordance with Tier 3 systematic evaluations procedure in Chapter 6. 2. Nonstructural components shall be evaluated in accordance with Chapter 13.
Exception: For general acute care hospitals, seismic evaluation shall be permitted to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code (CAC) when required by provisions of that chapter.
304A.3.5.2 ASCE 41-13 Section 2.4 Seismic Hazard. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 2.4 with the following:
Response spectra and acceleration time histories shall be constructed in accordance with 2016 California Building Code (CBC) Sections 1613A, 1616A, and 1803A.6 or equivalent provision in later versions of the CBC.
304A.3.5.3 ASCE 41-13 Section 6.2. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 6.2 with the following:
Data Collection Requirements. The extent of data collection shall be at Comprehensive level for all structures, including struc- tures upgraded to SPC-4D. A testing program for materials properties shall be approved by the enforcement agent prior to
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commencement of material testing work. Previously approved material test results shall be permitted to be used to satisfy part of the comprehensive data collection requirements.
Exception: Data collection at Usual level shall be permitted for structures with SPC-2 or lower target performance objective.
CEBC § 3.3. High relevance — show source text
BSE-C RESPONSE ACCELERATION PARAMETERS [BSC] are the parameters (S XS and S X1 ) taken from 5-percent/50-year maximum direction spectral response acceleration curves or by a Site Specific Response Spectrum developed in accordance with ASCE 41, Section 2.3.3.
BSE-R RESPONSE ACCELERATION PARAMETERS [BSC] are the parameters (S XS and S X1 ) taken from 20-percent /50-year maximum direction spectral response acceleration curves or by a Site Specific Response Spectrum developed in accordance with ASCE 41, Section 2.3.3.
SECTION 319 [BSC, DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC]—SEISMIC CRITERIA SELECTION FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
319.1 Basis for evaluation and design. This section determines what technical approach is to be used for the seismic evaluation and design for existing buildings. For those buildings or portions of buildings for which Section 317 requires action, the procedures and limitations for the evaluation of existing buildings and design of retrofit systems and/or repair thereof shall be implemented in accordance with this section.
One of the following approaches must be used: 1. Method A of Section 320;
2. Method B of Section 321, with independent review of a peer reviewer as required in Section 322; or 3. For state-owned buildings only, the use of one of the specific procedures listed in Section 319.1.1.
When Method B is chosen it must be approved by the building official, and, where applicable, by the peer reviewer. All referenced standards in ASCE 41 shall be replaced by referenced standards listed in Chapter 35 of the California Building Code.
Exceptions: 1. [BSC] For buildings constructed to the requirements of California Building Code, 2019 or later edition, as adopted by the governing jurisdiction, that code is permitted to be used in place of those specified in Section 319.1. 2. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] For the conversion of nonconforming buildings to conforming school buildings in accordance with Section 4-307 of the California Administrative Code, nonconforming buildings constructed to the requirements of California Building Code, 2019 or later edition, that code as it was adopted by the governing jurisdiction is permitted to be used in place of those specified in Section 319.1 provided the building complies with Seismic Design Category D or higher.
319.1.1 Specific procedures. [BSC] For state-owned buildings, the following specific procedures located in Appendix A may be used, without peer review, for their respective types of construction to comply with the seismic performance requirements for Risk Category I, II or III buildings: 1. Seismic Strengthening Provisions for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings (Chapter A1). 2. Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Reinforced Concrete and Reinforced Masonry Wall Buildings with Flexible Diaphragms (Chapter A2).
319.1.2 When a design project is begun under Method B the selection of the peer reviewer is subject to the approval of the building official. Following approval by the peer reviewer, the seismic criteria for the project and the planned evaluation provisions must be approved by the building official. The approved seismic criteria and evaluation provisions shall apply. Upon approval of the building official these are permitted to be modified.
CEBC § 304A.3.5.13 High relevance — show source text
304A.3.5.13 ASCE 41-13 Section 10.7.1.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 10.7.1.1 with the following:
Monolithic Reinforced Concrete Shear Walls and Wall Segments. For nonlinear procedures, shear walls or wall segments with axial loads greater than 0.35 Po shall be included in the model as primary elements with appropriate strength and stiffness degrading properties assigned to those components subject to the approval of the enforcement agent. For linear procedures, the effects of deformation compatibility shall be investigated using moment-curvature section analyses and cyclic testing results of similar components to determine whether strengthening is necessary to maintain the gravity load-carrying capacity of that component.
Horizontal wall segments or spandrels reinforced similar to vertical wall segments or piers shall be classified as wall segments, not shear wall coupling beams, in Tables 10-19 through 10-22.
304A.3.5.14 ASCE 41-13 Section 10.12.3 Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 10.12.3 as follows:
Exception: Component actions that are deformation controlled are permitted to use their expected strengths for the accep- tance criteria.
304A.3.5.15 ASCE 41-13 Section 11.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 11.1 by the following:
Scope: Unreinforced masonry walls (including unreinforced infill walls) and partitions are not permitted for General Acute Care (GAC) hospital buildings.
304A.3.5.16 ASCE 41-13 Section 14.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 14.1 by the following:
Scope: For buildings located in Seismic Design Category F, verification of the interstory lateral displacements, the strength adequacy of the seismic force-resisting system and anchorage to the foundation shall be accomplished using the Nonlinear Dynamic Procedure.
304A.3.5.17 ASCE 41-13 Chapter 15 and 16. Not permitted by OSHPD.
304A.3.6 Modifications to ASCE 41-23. The text of ASCE 41-23 shall be modified as indicated in Sections 304A.3.6.1 through 304A.3.6.9.
304A.3.6.1 ASCE 41-23 Section 2.1. Modify ASCE 41-23 Section 2.1 with the following:
Seismic evaluations shall be performed for performance objective specified in Section 304A.3.4 of this code (CEBC) using proce- dure of this standard (ASCE 41-23) as follows:
1. Structural components shall be evaluated in accordance with Tier 3 systematic evaluations procedure in Chapter 6.
2. Nonstructural components shall be evaluated in accordance with Chapter 13.
Exception: For general acute care hospitals, seismic evaluation shall be permitted to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code (CAC) when required by provisions of that chapter.
304A.3.6.2 ASCE 41-23 Section 6.2. Modify ASCE 41-23 Section 6.2 with the following:
CEBC § 7-6 High relevance — show source text
Alternatively, if Equation 7-6 is not satisfied and retrofit is not performed, the_ wall contribution to the lateral resisting system shall be ignored. For all other building type conditions, Equation 7-6 shall not be used.
304A.3.5.5 ASCE 41-13 Section 7.3.2.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 7.3.2.1 with the following:
Nonlinear Static Procedure. If higher mode effects are significant and building is taller than 75 feet above the base, the Nonlin- ear Dynamic Procedure shall be used.
304A.3.5.6 ASCE 41-13 Section 7.5.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 7.5.1 with the following:
Acceptance Criteria – Drift Limitations. The interstory drift ratio shall not exceed the drift limits for Risk Category IV buildings in ASCE 7 Table 12.12-1 due to forces corresponding to BSE-1E or BSE-1N, as applicable.
Exception: Larger interstory drift ratios shall be permitted where justified by rational analysis that items identified in Chap- ter 6 Article 10 of the California Administrative Code can tolerate such drift and approved by the enforcement agent.
304A.3.5.7 ASCE 41-13 Section 7.5.1.4. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 7.5.1.4 by the following:
Material Properties. Expected material properties are not permitted to be determined by multiplying lower bound values by the assumed factors specified in Chapters 8 through 12 and shall be based exclusively on materials tests.
304A.3.5.8 ASCE 41-13 Section 8.4. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 8.4 with the following:
Foundation Strength and Stiffness. Foundation and soil strength shall be used to evaluate potential overturning, uplift and sliding for fixed base assumptions, and stiffness for flexible base assumptions, including deformations associated with those actions.
304A.3.5.9 ASCE 41-13 Section 8.4.1.1. Replace ASCE 41-13 Section 8.4.1.1 as follows:
Prescriptive Expected Capacities. Not permitted by OSHPD.
304A.3.5.10 ASCE 41-13 Section 8.4.2.3.2.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Sections 8.4.2.3.2.1 and 8.4.2.3.2.2 as follows:
8.4.2.3.2.1 Alternatively, when seismic evaluation is performed for foundation after global analysis of the superstructure is complete, both overturning and axial seismic pseudo force demands are permitted to be divided by the m-factors above, provided the foundation is analyzed as a beam on Winkler springs (soil does not resist tension). The vertical spring stiffness _values may be determined either from Figure 8-2 or Equation 8-11, or as provided by the geotechnical engineer.
CBC § 301 High relevance — show source text
The IEBC is a model code in the International Code family of codes intended to provide requirements for repair and alternative approaches for alterations, changes of occupancy and additions to existing buildings. A large number of existing buildings and structures do not comply with the current building code requirements for new construction. Although many of these buildings are potentially salvageable, rehabilitation is often cost-prohibitive because compliance with all the requirements for new construction could require extensive changes that go well beyond the value of the building or the original scope of the alteration. At the same time, it is necessary to regulate construction in existing buildings that undergo additions, alterations, extensive repairs or change of occupancy. Such activity represents an opportunity to ensure that new construction complies with the current building codes and that existing conditions are maintained, at a minimum, to their current level of compliance or are improved as required to meet basic safety levels. To accomplish this objective, and to make the alteration process easier, this code allows for options for controlled departure from full compliance with the International Codes dealing with new construction, while maintaining basic levels for fire safety, structural and life safety features of the rehabilitated building.
This code provides three main options for a designer in dealing with alterations of existing buildings. These are laid out in Section 301 of this code:
Option 1: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Prescriptive Compliance Method given in Chapter 5. It should be noted that this method originates from the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Option 2: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Work Area Compliance Method given in Chapters 6 through 12.
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Option 3: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Performance Compliance Method given in Chapter 13. It should be noted that this option was also provided in the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Under limited circumstances, a building alteration can be made to comply with the laws under which the building was originally built, as long as the accessibility requirements are met, there has been no substantial structural damage and there will be limited structural alteration. Flood hazard provisions also must still be addressed where there is a substantial improvement.
Note that all repairs must comply with Chapter 4 and all relocated buildings are addressed by Chapter 14.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CEBC
The format of the CEBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CEBC is divided. The subsequent table shows CEBC requirements that are correlated with other California Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CEBC.
CEBC § 319.1. High relevance — show source text
Exceptions: 1. [BSC] For buildings constructed to the requirements of California Building Code, 2019 or later edition, as adopted by the governing jurisdiction, that code is permitted to be used in place of those specified in Section 319.1. 2. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] For the conversion of nonconforming buildings to conforming school buildings in accordance with Section 4-307 of the California Administrative Code, nonconforming buildings constructed to the requirements of California Building Code, 2019 or later edition, that code as it was adopted by the governing jurisdiction is permitted to be used in place of those specified in Section 319.1 provided the building complies with Seismic Design Category D or higher.
319.1.1 Specific procedures. [BSC] For state-owned buildings, the following specific procedures located in Appendix A may be used, without peer review, for their respective types of construction to comply with the seismic performance requirements for Risk Category I, II or III buildings: 1. Seismic Strengthening Provisions for Unreinforced Masonry Bearing Wall Buildings (Chapter A1). 2. Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Reinforced Concrete and Reinforced Masonry Wall Buildings with Flexible Diaphragms (Chapter A2).
319.1.2 When a design project is begun under Method B the selection of the peer reviewer is subject to the approval of the building official. Following approval by the peer reviewer, the seismic criteria for the project and the planned evaluation provisions must be approved by the building official. The approved seismic criteria and evaluation provisions shall apply. Upon approval of the building official these are permitted to be modified.
319.1.3 For state-owned and community college buildings, where unreinforced masonry is not bearing, it may be used only to resist applied lateral loads. Where unreinforced masonry walls are part of the structure they must be assessed for stability under the applicable nonstructural evaluation procedure.
319.1.4 Public schools. [DSA-SS] For public schools, unreinforced masonry shall not be used to resist in-plane or out-of-plane seismic forces or superimposed gravity loads.
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319.1.5 Public schools. [DSA-SS] Wood horizontal diaphragms and wood vertical shear walls shall consist of either diagonal lumber sheathing or structural panel sheathing. Braced horizontal diaphragms may be acceptable when approved by DSA. Straight lumber sheathing may be used as diaphragms or shear walls only when overlain with structural panel sheathing. Let-in bracing, plaster (stucco), hollow clay tile, gypsum wallboard and particleboard sheathing shall not be relied upon to resist seismic forces.
319.2 Existing conditions. The existing condition and properties of the entire structure must be determined and documented by thorough inspection of the structure and site, review of all available related construction documents, review of geotechnical and _engineering geologic reports, and performance of necessary testing and investigation.
CEBC § 304A.3.4.6 High relevance — show source text
2) The structures are capable of resisting all required vertical and lateral forces considering the loss of any elements or components damaged by impact of the structures.
304A.3.4.6 SPC 5 using ASCE 41-23. Structures shall be considered to comply with SPC 5 requirements of Table 2.5.3, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code where all of the following are satisfied: 1. Immediate Occupancy Structural Performance Level (S-1) in accordance with ASCE 41-23 Table 2-1 at BSE-1N; 2. Life Safety Performance Level S-3 in accordance with ASCE 41-23 Table 2-1 at BSE-2N; and 3. Items identified in Chapter 6, Article 10 of the California Administrative Code, satisfying the requirements of Operational Nonstructural Performance Level (N-A) in accordance with ASCE 41-23 Table 2-2 at BSE-1N.
304A.3.4.7 NPC-2 and NPC-3 using ASCE 41-23: Operational Nonstructural Performance Level (N-A) and Position Retention Nonstructural Performance Level (N-B) of ASCE 41-23 at BSE-1N shall be considered equivalent to NPC 3/NPC 2 requirements, respectively, of Table 11.1, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code. For NPC 3/NPC 2, only components listed in Table 11.1, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code for NPC 3 / NPC 2 need to satisfy the requirements specified above.
Exception: Evaluation procedure of Article 11, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code shall be used for seismic evalua- tion of NPC 2, NPC 3, NPC 4 or NPC 4D and NPC 5, where specific procedure is not outlined in ASCE 41-23. Administrative and permitting provisions outlined in Article 11, Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code shall apply.
304A.3.4.8 NPC-4 or NPC 4D and NPC-5 using ASCE 41-23: Nonstructural components for Operational Nonstructural Perfor- mance Level (N-A) in ASCE 41-23 Table 2-2 or NPC-4/NPC 4D shall satisfy the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction. Nonstructural components for NPC-5 shall satisfy Operational Performance Level N-A/NPC-4/NPC 4D and California Building Code Section 1617A.1.40 Items 1 & 2.
304A.3.5 Modifications to ASCE 41-13 for SPC-2 and SPC-4D. The text of ASCE 41-13 shall be modified as indicated in Sections 304A.3.5.1 through 304A.3.5.17.
304A.3.5.1 ASCE 41-13 Section 1.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 1.1 with the following:
Seismic evaluations shall be performed for performance objective specified in Section 304A.3.4 of this code (CEBC) using proce- dure of this standard (ASCE 41) as follows:
CEBC § 304A.3.5.11 High relevance — show source text
The evaluation of the foundation structural element shall be considered as force controlled in accordance with the material chapters using the bearing pressure distribution under the footing from the same method used for the soil bearing acceptance criteria.
304A.3.5.11 ASCE 41-13 Section 8.5.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 8.5.1 with the following:
The product of RRS bsa x RRS e , shall not be less than 0.7.
The combined effect of kinematic interaction and foundation damping shall meet the following:
1. The site-specific response spectrum modified for soil-structure interaction effects shall not be taken as less than 80 percent of the spectral acceleration as determined from a site-specific response spectrum in accordance with ASCE 7 Section 21.3, or
2. The site-specific response spectrum modified for soil-structure interaction effects shall not be taken as less than 70 percent of the spectral acceleration as determined from the design response spectrum and MCE R response spectrum in accordance with ASCE 7 Sections 11.4.5 and 11.4.6, respectively.
Exception: For the seismic retrofit of existing nonconforming buildings, design ground motion shall be consistent with performance objectives in Section 304A.3.4.
304A.3.5.12 ASCE 41-13 Section 8.6. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 8.6 with the following:
Seismic Earth Pressure. Where the grade difference from one side of the building to another exceeds one-half story height, the seismic increment of earth pressure shall be added to the gravity lateral earth pressure to evaluate the building overturning and sliding stability and the lateral force-resisting system below grade in combination with the building seismic forces.
304A.3.5.13 ASCE 41-13 Section 10.7.1.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 10.7.1.1 with the following:
Monolithic Reinforced Concrete Shear Walls and Wall Segments. For nonlinear procedures, shear walls or wall segments with axial loads greater than 0.35 Po shall be included in the model as primary elements with appropriate strength and stiffness degrading properties assigned to those components subject to the approval of the enforcement agent. For linear procedures, the effects of deformation compatibility shall be investigated using moment-curvature section analyses and cyclic testing results of similar components to determine whether strengthening is necessary to maintain the gravity load-carrying capacity of that component.
Horizontal wall segments or spandrels reinforced similar to vertical wall segments or piers shall be classified as wall segments, not shear wall coupling beams, in Tables 10-19 through 10-22.
304A.3.5.14 ASCE 41-13 Section 10.12.3 Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 10.12.3 as follows:
Exception: Component actions that are deformation controlled are permitted to use their expected strengths for the accep- tance criteria.
304A.3.5.15 ASCE 41-13 Section 11.1. Modify ASCE 41-13 Section 11.1 by the following:
Scope: Unreinforced masonry walls (including unreinforced infill walls) and partitions are not permitted for General Acute Care (GAC) hospital buildings.
CEBC § 319.3 High relevance — show source text
Where original building plans and specifications are not available, “as-built” plans shall be prepared that depict the existing vertical and lateral structural systems, exterior elements, foundations and nonstructural systems in sufficient detail to complete the design.
Data collection shall be directed and observed by the project structural engineer or design professional in charge of the design.
319.3 Site geology and soil characteristics. Soil profile shall be assigned in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 18 of the California Building Code.
319.4 Risk categories. Each structure shall be placed in one of the Risk Categories in accordance with the requirements of the California Building Code.
319.5 Configuration requirements. Each structure shall be designated structurally regular or irregular. If the evaluation and retrofit is in accordance with Table 317.5, Footnote 2 or 3, the building shall be classified by application of ASCE 7, Section 12.3.2. If the evaluation and retrofit is in accordance with ASCE 41, the building shall be classified as irregular when an irregularity defined in ASCE 41, Sections 7.3.1.1.1 through 7.3.1.1.4 exists.
319.6 General selection of the design method. The requirements of Method B (Section 321) may be used for any existing building.
319.7 Prescriptive selection of the design method. The requirements of Method A per Section 320 or the specific procedures for applicable building types given in Section 319.1.1 are permitted to be used except if the building has one or more characteristics described in Sections 319.7.1 through 319.7.7, in which case Method B shall be used.
319.7.1 A building with prestressed or post- tensioned structural components (beams, columns, walls or slabs) or precast structural components (beams, columns, walls or flooring systems).
319.7.2 A building classified as irregular per Section 319.5.
Exceptions: 1. The retrofit design removes the configurational attributes that caused the building to be classified as irregular. 2. The irregularity is demonstrated not to affect the seismic performance of the building.
319.7.3 A building assigned to Risk Category IV per Section 319.4.
319.7.4 A building with an undefined or hybrid structural system.
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319.7.5 A building with a seismic isolation or energy dissipation system, either as part of the existing structure or as part of the retrofit.
319.7.6 A building greater than 240 feet (73 m) in height.
319.7.7 A building evaluated per ASCE 41 and its application requires the use of a nonlinear analysis procedure.
CEBC § 304.3.2 High relevance — show source text
[BS] 304.3.2 Reduced seismic criteria. Where required, seismic evaluation or design shall comply with one of the following methodologies, which shall not be applied in combination with each other:
- Section 1613 of the California Building Code using 75 percent of the prescribed forces. Values of R, Ω 0 and C d used for analysis shall be as specified in Section 304.3.1 of this code.
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- Applicable chapters of Appendix A of this code, for structures or portions of structures specified in Items 2.1 through 2.4 subject to the limitations of the respective chapter. 2.1. Chapter A1 for unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings assigned to Risk Category I or II. 2.2. Chapter A2 for the wall anchorage system in reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings with flexible diaphragms assigned to Risk Category I or II. 2.3. Chapter A3 for cripple walls and sill plate anchorage in residential buildings of light-frame wood construction assigned to Risk Category I or II. 2.4. Chapter A4 for soft, weak or open-front wall conditions in multiple-unit residential buildings of wood construction assigned to Risk Category I or II.
- ASCE 41, using the performance objective in Table 304.3.2 for the applicable risk category.
[BS] TABLE 304.3.2—PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES FOR USE IN ASCE 41 FOR COMPLIANCE WITH REDUCED CRITERIA FORCES Col2 Col3 RISK CATEGORY
(Based on IBC Table 1604.5)STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR USE
WITH BSE-1E EARTHQUAKE HAZARD LEVELSTRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR USE
WITH BSE-2E EARTHQUAKE HAZARD LEVELI Life Safety (S-3).
See Note aCollapse Prevention (S-5) II Life Safety (S-3).
See Note aCollapse Prevention (S-5) III Damage Control (S-2).
See Note aLimited Safety (S-4).
See Note bIV Immediate Occupancy (S-1) Life Safety (S-3).
See Note ca. For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
b. For Risk Category III, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on the Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be
based on_MS_-factors that are the average of the values for Collapse Prevention and Life Safety.
c. For Risk Category IV, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be based
on_MS_-factors for Life Safety.a. For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
b.CBC § 301 High relevance — show source text
This code provides three main options for a designer in dealing with alterations of existing buildings. These are laid out in Section 301 of this code:
Option 1: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Prescriptive Compliance Method given in Chapter 5. It should be noted that this method originates from the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Option 2: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Work Area Compliance Method given in Chapters 6 through 12.
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Option 3: Work for alteration, change of occupancy or addition of all existing buildings shall be done in accordance with the Performance Compliance Method given in Chapter 13. It should be noted that this option was also provided in the former Chapter 34 of the IBC (2012 and earlier editions).
Under limited circumstances, a building alteration can be made to comply with the laws under which the building was originally built, as long as the accessibility requirements are met, there has been no substantial structural damage and there will be limited structural alteration. Flood hazard provisions also must still be addressed where there is a substantial improvement.
Note that all repairs must comply with Chapter 4 and all relocated buildings are addressed by Chapter 14.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CEBC
The format of the CEBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CEBC is divided. The subsequent table shows CEBC requirements that are correlated with other California Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CEBC.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECTS 1, 2 Administrative Requirements and Definitions 3 Provisions for all Compliance Methods 4 Repairs 5 Prescriptive Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 6–11 Work Area Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 13 Performance Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 14 Relocated Buildings 15 Construction Safeguards 16 Referenced Standards Appendix A Guidelines for Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings Appendix C Guidelines for Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings Appendix D Board of Appeals Appendix E Temporary Emergency Uses Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE CORRELATED TOPICS
The CEBC requirements for construction safeguards are directly correlated to the requirements of the CBC. The following table shows chapters of the CBC that are correlated with the CEBC:
CEBC/CBC CORRELATED TOPICS Col2 Col3 CEBC CHAPTER/SECTION CBC CHAPTER/SECTION SUBJECT Chapter 15 Chapter 33 Construction safeguards Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
CEBC § 304A.3.5.17 High relevance — show source text
Scope: For buildings located in Seismic Design Category F, verification of the interstory lateral displacements, the strength adequacy of the seismic force-resisting system and anchorage to the foundation shall be accomplished using the Nonlinear Dynamic Procedure.
304A.3.5.17 ASCE 41-13 Chapter 15 and 16. Not permitted by OSHPD.
304A.3.6 Modifications to ASCE 41-23. The text of ASCE 41-23 shall be modified as indicated in Sections 304A.3.6.1 through 304A.3.6.9.
304A.3.6.1 ASCE 41-23 Section 2.1. Modify ASCE 41-23 Section 2.1 with the following:
Seismic evaluations shall be performed for performance objective specified in Section 304A.3.4 of this code (CEBC) using proce- dure of this standard (ASCE 41-23) as follows:
1. Structural components shall be evaluated in accordance with Tier 3 systematic evaluations procedure in Chapter 6.
2. Nonstructural components shall be evaluated in accordance with Chapter 13.
Exception: For general acute care hospitals, seismic evaluation shall be permitted to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of the California Administrative Code (CAC) when required by provisions of that chapter.
304A.3.6.2 ASCE 41-23 Section 6.2. Modify ASCE 41-23 Section 6.2 with the following:
Data Collection Requirements. The extent of data collection shall be at Comprehensive level for all structures, including struc- tures upgraded to SPC-4D. A testing program for materials properties shall be approved by the enforcement agent prior to commencement of material testing work. Previously approved material test results shall be permitted to be used to satisfy part of the comprehensive data collection requirements.
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Tension testing of reinforcing bars shall be in accordance with ASTM A615. All test specimens shall be the full section of the bar as rolled (8-in. gage length) and shall not be reduced.
At test sample locations, structural members, slabs and walls shall be repaired to a state that is equivalent to their original condition.
For buildings built under an OSHPD permit based on the 1976 or later edition of the CBC, where materials properties are shown on design drawings and original materials test data are available, no materials testing shall be required when approved by the enforcement agent.
304A.3.6.3 ASCE 41-23 Section 7.2.9.1. Modify ASCE 41-23 Section 7.2.9.1 with the following:
For the evaluation of one-story light-framed walls with or without hold-downs, ASCE 41-23 Equation 7-6 is permitted to be used. If Equation 7-6 is satisfied, no further evaluation or retrofit of the existing hold-down, if any, is required. If Equation 7-6 is not _satisfied, hold-down shall be provided or retrofitted using ASCE 41-23 Equations 7-39 and 7-40.
Frequently asked questions
Can private (non‑state) owners always use Appendix A Chapters A1 or A2 instead of ASCE 41?
Not always. § 319.1.1 specifically authorizes Chapters A1 and A2 for state‑owned buildings without peer review. For other owners, Appendix A chapters may still be used only under the Reduced Seismic Criteria pathway and are limited by Risk Category and chapter scope per § 304.3.2.
Does using Appendix A eliminate the need to check other CEBC requirements?
No. You must still verify the building does not meet any § 319.7 exclusion (which would force Method B) and must comply with the scope and limitations of the specific Appendix A chapter you use.
Is peer review ever required when Appendix A is used?
For the specific allowance in § 319.1.1 (state‑owned buildings using Chapters A1/A2), the CEBC states these may be used without peer review. Other circumstances (Method B selections or non‑state projects) may still require peer review under § 321 / § 322.
Where are the Appendix A chapters themselves found?
The detailed procedures and acceptance criteria are in Appendix A of the CEBC (see Chapters A1, A2). Use those chapters’ text to design the retrofit; the allowance to use them instead of ASCE 41 is in § 319.1.1 and the reduced criteria listing in § 304.3.2.
If a building is Risk Category III but not state‑owned, can Appendix A still be used?
Generally no under the reduced‑criteria path: § 304.3.2 limits Appendix A chapters to Risk Category I or II for reduced criteria. Use of Appendix A for Risk Category III is specifically allowed by § 319.1.1 only for state‑owned buildings. Confirm the project’s pathway before choosing Appendix A.
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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