CFC · California Fire Code
Minimum construction/occupancy-specific retrofit requirements (Table 1103.1)
If you own or alter an existing building in California, the California Fire Code requires you to comply with the occupancy‑specific minimum retrofit items shown in **Table 1103.1** and the detailed sub‑sections **1103.2–1103.10**; check the table to see which items apply to your occupancy, read the referenced sub‑sections for scope, and note the limited exceptions (for example, **Group U** and certain CEBC‑approved fire‑resistance changes).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
Per § 1103.1 the California Fire Code, existing buildings must meet at least the minimum construction and occupancy‑specific retrofit items shown in Table 1103.1, with additional detail in Sections 1103.2 through 1103.10. Table 1103.1 assigns which retrofit items (by CFC sub‑section) are required for each occupancy or use; the table plus the referenced sections together establish the minimum retrofit obligations for an existing building.
The single most important rule: Existing buildings must meet no less than the minimum items listed in Table 1103.1 and the companion sections 1103.2–1103.10 — check the table for which items apply to your occupancy.
Requirements in detail
Scope and controlling text
The controlling provision is § 1103.1: "Existing buildings shall comply with not less than the minimum provisions specified in Table 1103.1 and as further enumerated in Sections 1103.2 through 1103.10." Exceptions are specified in the same paragraph (see Exceptions & special cases).
The code does not allow removal of an existing fire protection system or a reduction in previously provided levels of fire safety.
How Table 1103.1 is organized (decision dimensions)
Table 1103.1 is a matrix: rows are specific retrofit topics or CFC sub‑sections (e.g., 1103.4.6, 1103.5.1, 1103.6.1, etc.) and columns are occupancy/use groups (A, B, E, F, H, I‑1, I‑2, M, R‑1, R‑2, etc.). An entry in a cell (commonly shown as "R") indicates that the listed retrofit requirement in that row is required for that occupancy. The uploaded materials include the table header and a portion of the matrix showing which sub‑sections apply to which occupancies.
Below is a compact decision table you can use to walk through applicability. Where the full per‑occupancy requirements are needed, consult Table 1103.1 in the CFC (the uploaded files include only part of the table; see note below).
| Decision dimension | Typical values / thresholds | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Applicability trigger | Existing buildings (built prior to adoption of this code) — retrofit items are occupancy‑specific per Table 1103.1 | § 1103.1 |
| Source of required items | Table 1103.1 (matrix) + Sections 1103.2 – 1103.10 (detail for particular topics) | § 1103.1 and Table 1103.1 |
| Exception categories | Change in fire‑resistance rating approved per CEBC §501.2 or §802.6; Group U occupancies excluded | § 1103.1 (exceptions) |
| How to read the matrix | Locate the row for the retrofit topic (example: 1103.4.6), find your occupancy column — an "R" means that retrofit topic is required for that occupancy | Table 1103.1 excerpts |
Example of how the table marks required items (matrix excerpt)
The uploaded table excerpt shows specific rows (section numbers) and occupancy columns populated with "R" where required. This demonstrates the matrix approach (this is an excerpt — the complete table must be consulted for any project):
| Table row (retrofit sub‑section) | Example occupancies showing "R" in the excerpt |
|---|---|
| 1103.4.6 | Many occupancies marked R in the excerpt (A, B, E, F, H series, I series, M, R‑groups shown) |
| 1103.5.5 | Shown as R for multiple occupancies in the excerpt |
| 1103.6.1 / 1103.6.2 | Shown as R for a wide set of occupancies in the excerpt |
(IMPORTANT) The upload contains partial Table 1103.1 content and the table header/matrix layout; the full per‑row text for every retrofit item is not fully reproduced in the uploaded files. Where a specific row’s text or the complete per‑occupancy mapping is required, consult the official Table 1103.1 in the CFC book or electronic version.
Exceptions & special cases
Exception 1: If a change in fire‑resistance rating has been approved in accordance with CEBC § 501.2 or § 802.6, the requirement in § 1103.1 may not apply as written. In other words, approved alternate fire‑resistance determinations under the California Existing Building Code can alter applicability.
Exception 2: Group U (utility and miscellaneous) occupancies are exempt from the Table 1103.1 retrofit requirements per § 1103.1.
Additions vs existing: Some sections in Chapter 11 discuss additions and structural changes (for example, gravity loads and lateral force resisting requirements when adding to a building). Those provisions (e.g., [BS] 1103.1 and 1103.2 in the additions context) impose separate structural upgrade triggers (for example, gravity load increases of more than 5% require replacement or alteration). These are related but distinct from the occupancy‑specific retrofit matrix in Table 1103.1.
State adoption differences: Some sections of Chapter 11 or related chapters may be adopted differently by state agencies; check local adoption notes and SFM amendments where applicable.
Common mistakes
Reading the table without checking the referenced sub‑section language. The matrix tells you which sub‑sections apply — you must read that sub‑section for the required scopes and methods. The uploaded files include the matrix headers and some mappings but not the full text for every row — do not assume missing text.
Treating an "R" entry as optional or as guidance. In the CFC matrix "R" indicates a required retrofit item; § 1103.1 requires compliance with the items shown in Table 1103.1.
Forgetting exceptions. Group U occupancies are excluded; also approved changes in fire‑resistance under the CEBC can change applicability. Always verify exceptions in § 1103.1.
Confusing Chapter 11 additions/alteration structural triggers (like the 5% gravity load threshold) with Table 1103.1 occupancy retrofit triggers. Both can apply but are separate checks.
Worked example — step‑by‑step (how to apply §1103.1 and Table 1103.1)
Scenario: You are the owner of an existing single‑story retail building (Group M) built before the current code. A fire code inspection finds conditions that trigger a retrofit review.
- Confirm the building is an "existing building" covered by Chapter 11. (§ 1101.1 & § 1103.1).
- Open Table 1103.1 and locate the row(s) for the retrofit topics the inspector cited (for example, the row for 1103.5.5 or 1103.6.1 — the matrix will show whether that sub‑section is required for Group M). The uploaded excerpt shows how those rows/columns are marked, but you must consult the full table in the CFC for your project.
- For each row marked required ("R") in the Group M column: read the corresponding section (e.g., § 1103.5.5, § 1103.6.1) to determine the specific construction or system upgrade required (scope, performance, acceptance criteria). (Note: the uploaded files include the table mapping but do not include the complete text of every 1103.x sub‑section — obtain the full CFC text for those sub‑sections.)
- Verify exceptions. If the building were Group U, you would be exempt; if an approved CEBC fire‑resistance change exists (CEBC § 501.2 or § 802.6), that may alter requirements.
- Where the retrofit requires structural changes tied to an addition (or the inspector’s findings involve structural capacity), check the additions/structural provisions in Chapter 11 — e.g., if an alteration increases a gravity load by more than 5%, structural members may have to be replaced or altered.
- Submit construction documents and schedule per § 1101.4.1 and complete work per § 1101.4.2, or request an extension per § 1101.4.3 if hardship can be shown.
Numbers used in the example that are drawn from the code: 5% gravity‑load increase trigger (additions context) and the specific section pointers — both are present in the uploaded code excerpts.
Related provisions (CFC / cross‑code) — quick list
- § 1103.1 — Required construction; Table 1103.1 is the central matrix for occupancy retrofit requirements.
- Table 1103.1 — Occupancy and use matrix (see uploaded excerpts; consult the full table in the CFC for complete mappings).
- § 1103.2 – § 1103.10 — The companion sections that further enumerate and define many of the table items referenced by Table 1103.1. (Table points at these sections as the detailed requirements.)
- Chapter 11 additions/structural — e.g., [BS] 1103.1 (additional gravity loads) and 1103.2 (lateral force resisting system) — relevant when retrofits occur in the context of additions or structural changes.
- § 1104 — Means of egress requirements for existing buildings (often works together with Table 1103.1 retrofit items affecting egress).
- California Existing Building Code (CEBC) cross‑references — e.g., CEBC § 501.2, § 802.6 (cited in § 1103.1 exceptions).
Note on source material: the uploaded files include the controlling text of § 1103.1, the Table 1103.1 matrix header and excerpts showing how rows map to occupancies, and related Chapter 11 structural/addition provisions. However, the uploaded set does not reproduce the full text of every row (every 1103.x sub‑section) in Table 1103.1. For any specific project you must review the full Table 1103.1 and the full text of the referenced 1103.2–1103.10 sub‑sections in the official CFC.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Fire Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 11-1 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 11-1
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11 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and is intended to ensure a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for alterations to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the California Building Code . The provisions address general fire safety features such as requirements for fire alarm systems in some existing buildings and general means of egress, and include a section dedicated to existing Group I-2 occupancies.
SECTION 1101—GENERAL
1101.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of this code.
1101.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing minimum construction requirements where such existing buildings do not comply with the minimum requirements of the California Building Code .
1101.3 Permits. Permits shall be required as set forth in Sections 105.5 and 105.6 and the California Building Code .
1101.4 Owner notification. When a building is found to be in noncompliance with this chapter, the fire code official shall duly notify the owner of the building. Upon receipt of such notice, the owner shall, subject to the following time limits, take necessary actions to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
1101.4.1 Construction documents. Construction documents necessary to comply with this chapter shall be completed and submitted within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
1101.4.2 Completion of work. Work necessary to comply with this chapter shall be completed within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
1101.4.3 Extension of time. The fire code official is authorized to grant necessary extensions of time where it can be shown that the specified time periods are not physically practical or pose an undue hardship. The granting of an extension of time for compliance shall be based on the showing of good cause and subject to the filing of an acceptable systematic plan of correction with the fire code official.
SECTION 1102—DEFINITIONS
1102.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
DUTCH DOOR.
EXISTING.
SECTION 1103—FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1103.1 Required construction. Existing buildings shall comply with not less than the minimum provisions specified in Table 1103.1 and as further enumerated in Sections 1103.2 through 1103.10.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to allow the elimination of fire protection systems or a reduction in the level of fire safety provided in buildings constructed in accordance with previously adopted codes.
Exceptions:
Where a change in fire-resistance rating has been approved in accordance with Section 501.2 or 802.6 of the California Existing Building Code .
Group U occupancies.
|TABLE 1103.1—OCCUPANCY AND USE
CFC § 1101.4.1 High relevance — show source text
1101.4.1 Construction documents. Construction documents necessary to comply with this chapter shall be completed and submitted within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
1101.4.2 Completion of work. Work necessary to comply with this chapter shall be completed within a time schedule approved by the fire code official.
1101.4.3 Extension of time. The fire code official is authorized to grant necessary extensions of time where it can be shown that the specified time periods are not physically practical or pose an undue hardship. The granting of an extension of time for compliance shall be based on the showing of good cause and subject to the filing of an acceptable systematic plan of correction with the fire code official.
SECTION 1102—DEFINITIONS
1102.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
DUTCH DOOR.
EXISTING.
SECTION 1103—FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
1103.1 Required construction. Existing buildings shall comply with not less than the minimum provisions specified in Table 1103.1 and as further enumerated in Sections 1103.2 through 1103.10.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to allow the elimination of fire protection systems or a reduction in the level of fire safety provided in buildings constructed in accordance with previously adopted codes.
Exceptions:
Where a change in fire-resistance rating has been approved in accordance with Section 501.2 or 802.6 of the California Existing Building Code .
Group U occupancies.
TABLE 1103.1—OCCUPANCY AND USE REQUIREMENTSa Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 Col18 Col19 Col20 Col21 Col22 Col23 Col24 SECTION USE USE USE USE OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION **OCCUPANCY CFC § 100.0 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception 1 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 80 percent of the conditioned floor area of the building, the entire building envelope, HVAC and water heating may be designed to comply with the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy, provided that the applicable lighting requirements in Sections 140.6 through 140.8, 150.0(k), or 160.5 and 170.2(e) are met for each occupancy and space, and mandatory measures in Sections 110.0 through 130.5, 150.0, and 160.0 through 160.9 are met for each occupancy and space.
Exception 2 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 90 percent of the combined conditioned plus unconditioned floor area of the building, the entire building indoor lighting may be designed to comply with only the lighting provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.
(g) Administrative requirements. Administrative requirements relating to permit requirements, enforcement by the Commission, locally adopted energy standards, interpretations, claims of exemption, approved calculation methods, rights of appeal, and certification and labeling requirements of fenestration products and roofing products are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Sections 10-101 to 10-114.
(h) Certification requirements for manufactured equipment, products and devices. Part 6 limits the installation of manufactured equipment, products and devices to those that have been certified as specified by Sections 110.0 and 110.1. Requirements for manufactured equipment, products, and devices, when not specified in Title 24 Part 6, are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Sections 1601–1609.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code .
SECTION 100.1 — DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF CONSTRUCTION
(a) Rules of Construction.
- Where the context requires, the singular includes the plural and the plural includes the singular.
- The use of “and” in a conjunctive provision means that all elements in the provision must be complied with or must exist to make the provision applicable. Where compliance with one or more elements suffices, or where existence of one or more elements makes the provision applicable, “or” (rather than “and/or”) is used.
- “Shall” is mandatory and “may” is permissive.
(b) Definitions. Terms, phrases, words and their derivatives in Part 6 shall be defined as specified in Section 100.1. Terms, phrases, words and their derivatives not found in Section 100.1 shall be defined as specified in the “Definitions” chapters of Title 24, Parts 1 through 5 of the California Code of Regulations. Where terms, phrases, words and their derivatives are not defined in any of the references above, they shall be defined as specified in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged (1961 edition, through the 2002 addenda), unless the context requires otherwise.
California Fire Code Medium relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.CFC § 1.9.2.1. Medium relevance — show source text
State-owned and state-leased essential services buildings are subject to the regulatory authority of DSA-SS per Section 1.9.2.1._|1. ASCE 41 provides acceptance criteria (e.g., m-factor, rotation) for Immediate Occupancy (S1), Life Safety (S3) and Collapse Prevention (S5), and specifies in Table 2-1 the method
to interpolate values for S-2 and S-4. When evaluating for the Hazards Reduced Nonstructural Performance Level, the requirements need not be greater than what would be
required by ASCE 7 nonstructural provisions for new construction.
2. Buildings evaluated and retrofitted to meet the structural and nonstructural requirements for a new building as given in the California Building Code as adopted by DSA or BSC, as
applicable, are deemed to meet the seismic performance requirements of this section.
3. Buildings complying with the requirements of the exception in Section 319.1 are deemed to meet the seismic performance requirements of this section.
4. State-owned and state-leased essential services buildings are subject to the regulatory authority of DSA-SS per Section 1.9.2.1.|1. ASCE 41 provides acceptance criteria (e.g., m-factor, rotation) for Immediate Occupancy (S1), Life Safety (S3) and Collapse Prevention (S5), and specifies in Table 2-1 the method
to interpolate values for S-2 and S-4. When evaluating for the Hazards Reduced Nonstructural Performance Level, the requirements need not be greater than what would be
required by ASCE 7 nonstructural provisions for new construction.
2. Buildings evaluated and retrofitted to meet the structural and nonstructural requirements for a new building as given in the California Building Code as adopted by DSA or BSC, as
applicable, are deemed to meet the seismic performance requirements of this section.
3. Buildings complying with the requirements of the exception in Section 319.1 are deemed to meet the seismic performance requirements of this section.
4. State-owned and state-leased essential services buildings are subject to the regulatory authority of DSA-SS per Section 1.9.2.1.|317.6 Retrofit required. Where the evaluation indicates the building does not meet the required performance objectives of this section, the owner shall take appropriate steps to ensure that the building’s structural system is retrofitted in accordance with the provisions of Section 317. Appropriate steps are either: 1) undertake the seismic retrofit as part of the additions, alterations and/or repairs of the structure; or 2) provide a plan, acceptable to the building official, to complete the seismic retrofit in a timely manner. The relocation or moving of an existing building is considered to be an alteration requiring filing of the plans and specifications approved by the building official.
317.7 The additions, alteration or repair to any existing building are permitted to be prepared in accordance with the structural and nonstructural requirements for a new building as given in the California Building Code, applied to the entire building.
317.8 The requirements of ASCE 41 Chapters 14 and 15 are to apply to the use of seismic isolation and passive energy systems, respectively, for the repair, voluntary lateral-force-resisting system modification or retrofit of an existing structure. When seismic isolation or passive energy dissipation is used, the project must have project peer review as prescribed in Section 322.
CFC § 319.3 Medium 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.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3-19
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
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.
CFC § 803.11 Medium relevance — show source text
Occupancy classification also plays a key part in the appropriate protection measures. As such, threshold requirements for fire protection and means of egress systems are based on occupancy classification (see Chapters 9 and 10). Other sections of the code also contain requirements respective to the classification of building groups. For example, Section 706 specifies requirements for fire wall fire-resistance ratings that are tied to the occupancy classification of a building and Section 803.11 contains interior finish requirements that are dependent upon the occupancy classification. The use of the space, rather than the occupancy of the building, is utilized for determining occupant loading (Section 1004) and live loading (Section 1607).
Chapter 4 Special Detailed Requirements Based on Occupancy and Use.
Chapter 4 contains the requirements for protecting special uses and occupancies which are supplemental to the remainder of the code. For example, the height and area limitations established in Chapter 5 apply to all special occupancies unless Chapter 4 contains height and area limitations. In this case, the limitations in Chapter 4 supersede those in other sections. An example of this is the height and area limitations for open parking garages given in Section 406.5.4, which supersede the limitations given in Sections 504 and 506.
In some instances, it may not be necessary to apply the provisions of Chapter 4. For example, if a covered mall building complies with the provisions of the code for Group M, Section 402 does not apply; however, other sections that address a use, process or operation must be applied to that specific occupancy, such as stages and platforms, special amusement buildings and hazardous materials (Sections 410, 411 and 414).
The chapter includes requirements for buildings and conditions that apply to one or more groups, such as high-rise buildings, underground buildings or atriums. Special uses may also imply specific occupancies and operations, such as for Group H, hazardous materials, and uses with associated combustibility hazards, which are coordinated with the CFC. Unique consideration is taken for special use areas, such as covered mall buildings, motor-vehicle-related occupancies, special amusement buildings and aircraftrelated occupancies. Special facilities within other occupancies are considered, such as stages and platforms, motion picture projection rooms, children’s play structures and storm shelters. Finally, in order that the overall package of protection features can be easily understood, unique considerations for specific occupancies are also addressed.
Chapter 5 General Building Heights and Areas.
Chapter 5 contains the provisions that regulate the minimum type of construction for area limits and height limits based on the occupancy of the building. Height and area increases are permitted based on open frontage for fire department access, separation and the type of sprinkler protection provided (Sections 503 through 506, 510). Provisions include the protection and/or separation of incidental uses (Table 509.1), accessory occupancies (Section 508.2) and mixed uses in the same building (Sections 506.2.2, 508.3, 508.4 and 510). Unlimited area buildings are permitted in certain occupancies when they meet special provisions (Section 507). Live/work units are provided for in Section 508.5.
Tables 504.3, 504.4 and 506.2 are the keystones in setting thresholds for building size based on the building’s use and the materials with which it is constructed. Respective to each group classification, the greater the fire-resistance rating of structural elements, as represented by the type of construction, the greater the floor area and height allowances. The greater the potential fire hazards indicated as a function of the group, the lesser the height and area allowances for a particular construction type.
CFC § 1012.5.1 Medium relevance — show source text
[BE] 1012.5.1 Width and capacity. The minimum width and required capacity of a means of egress ramp shall be not less than that required for corridors by Section 1020.3. The clear width of a ramp between handrails, if provided, or other permissible projections shall be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum.
[BE] 1012.5.2 Headroom. The minimum headroom in all parts of the means of egress ramp shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm) above the finished floor of the ramp run and any intermediate landings. The minimum clearance shall be maintained for the full width of the ramp and landing.
[BE] 1012.5.3 Restrictions. Means of egress ramps shall not reduce in width in the direction of egress travel. Projections into the required ramp and landing width are prohibited. Doors opening onto a landing shall not reduce the clear width to less than 42 inches (1067 mm).
[BE] 1012.6 Landings. Ramps shall have landings at the bottom and top of each ramp, points of turning, entrance, exits and at doors. Landings shall comply with Sections 1012.6.1 through 1012.6.5.
[BE] 1012.6.1 Slope. Landings shall have a slope not steeper than 1 unit vertical in 48 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in any direction. Changes in level are not permitted.
[BE] 1012.6.2 Width. The landing width shall be not less than the width of the widest ramp run adjoining the landing.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
[BE] 1012.6.3 Length. The landing length shall be 60 inches (1525 mm) minimum.
Exceptions:
In Group R-2 and R-3 individual dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units in accordance with Chapter 11A or 11B of the California Building Code, landings are permitted to be 36 inches (914 mm) minimum.
Where the ramp is not a part of an accessible route, the length of the landing shall not be required to be more than 48 inches (1219 mm) in the direction of travel.
[BE] 1012.6.4 Change in direction. Where changes in direction of travel occur at landings provided between ramp runs, the landing shall be 60 inches by 60 inches (1524 mm by 1524 mm) minimum.
Exception: In Group R-2 and R-3 individual dwelling or sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible units, Type A units or Type B units in accordance with Section 1108 of the California Building Code, landings are permitted to be 36 inches by 36 inches (914 mm by 914 mm) minimum.
[BE] 1012.6.5 Doorways. Where doorways are located adjacent to a ramp landing, maneuvering clearances required by ICC A117.1 are permitted to overlap the required landing area.
[BE] 1012.7 Ramp construction. Ramps shall be built of materials consistent with the types permitted for the type of construction of the building, except that wood handrails shall be permitted for all types of construction.
CFC § 1.11. Medium 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 APPENDIX C-1
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APPENDIX C-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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C GUIDELINES FOR THE WIND RETROFIT OF EXISTING BUILDINGS
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Appendix C is intended to provide guidance for retrofitting existing structures to strengthen their resistance to wind forces. This appendix is similar in scope to Appendix A, which addresses seismic retrofits for existing buildings, except that the subject matter is related to wind retrofits. These retrofits are voluntary measures that serve to better protect the public and reduce damage from high-wind events for existing buildings.
The purpose of this appendix is to provide prescriptive alternatives for addressing retrofit of buildings in high-wind areas. Currently there are two chapters that deal with the retrofit of gable ends and the fastening of roof decks, Appendix Chapters C1 and C2, respectively.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this appendix will be considered by the IBC—Structural Code Development Committee during the
2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
CHAPTER C1 GABLE END RETROFIT FOR HIGH-WIND AREAS
SECTION C101—GENERAL
[BS] C101.1 Purpose. This chapter provides prescriptive methods for partial structural retrofit of an existing building to increase its resistance to out-of-plane wind loads. It is intended for voluntary use and for reference by mitigation programs. The provisions of this chapter do not necessarily satisfy requirements for new construction. Unless specifically cited, the provisions of this chapter do not necessarily satisfy requirements for structural improvements triggered by addition, alteration, repair, change of occupancy, building relocation or other circumstances.
[BS] C101.2 Eligible buildings and gable end walls. The provisions of this chapter are applicable only to buildings that meet the following eligibility requirements:
- The building is not more than three stories tall, from adjacent grade to the bottom plate of each gable end wall being retrofitted with this chapter.
- The building is classified as Occupancy Group R3 or is within the scope of the California Residential Code .
- The structure includes one or more wood-framed gable end walls, either conventionally framed or metal-plate-connected.
In addition, the provisions of this chapter are applicable only to gable end walls that meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Each gable end wall has or shall be provided with studs or vertical webs spaced 24 inches (610 mm) on center maximum.
- Each gable end wall has a maximum height of 16 feet (4877 mm).
[BS] C101.3 Compliance Eligible gable end walls in eligible buildings may be retrofitted in accordance with this chapter. Other modifications required for compliance with this chapter shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the California Building Code or California Residential Code provisions for new construction, except as specifically provided for by this chapter.
SECTION C102—DEFINITIONS
CFC § 1.1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
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.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
Chapter 13 is not adopted by the State of California but may be available for adoption by local ordinance, see Section 1.1.11. See Section 104.11 for consideration of alternative means of compliance.
Chapter 14 Relocated or Moved Buildings.
Chapter 14 is applicable to any building that is moved or relocated. This chapter is independent of any of the three compliance methods and focuses on the structural loads where the building is being relocated.
Chapter 15 Construction Safeguards.
Chapter 15 establishes specific regulations in order to minimize the risk to the public and adjacent property during construction. Additionally, this chapter addresses fire and life safety and means of egress during the construction process. This includes requirements for a site safety plan. This chapter is also consistent with Chapter 33 of the CBC and Chapter 33 of the California Fire Code (CFC).
Chapter 16 Referenced Standards.
Chapter 16 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 15 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.
Appendix A Guidelines for the Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
Appendix A provides guidelines for upgrading the seismic resistance capacity of different types of existing buildings. It is organized into separate chapters which deal with buildings of different types, including unreinforced masonry buildings, reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings, and lightframe wood buildings. This appendix includes its own referenced standards.
Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings and Facilities.
Chapters 11A and 11B of the CBC contain provisions that set forth requirements for accessibility to buildings and their associated sites and facilities for people with physical disabilities. Appendix B was added to address accessibility in construction for items that are not typically enforceable through the traditional building code enforcement process.
Appendix C Guidelines for the Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings.
CFC § 358-3 Medium relevance — show source text
MATERIAL STANDARD
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX)ASTM F876, CSA B137.5,
ANSI/CSA/IGSHPA C448,
NSF/ANSI 358-3
High Density Polyethylene
(HDPE)ASTM D2737, ASTM D3035,
ASTM F714, AWWA C901,
CSA B137.1,
ANSI/CSA/IGSHPA C448,
NSF/ANSI 358-1
Polypropylene (PP)ASTM F2389, CSA B137.11,
NSF/ANSI 358-2
Polyethylene of Raised Tempera-
ture (PE-RT)ASTM F2623, ASTM F2769,
CSA B137.18,
ANSI/CSA/IGSHPA C448,
NSF/ANSI 358-4348 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
GEOTHERMAL ENERGY SYSTEMS AND AMBIENT TEMPERATURE LOOPS
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turer’s installation instructions, the appropriate standards listed in accordance with Table 1703.3, and one of the following heat fusion methods:
(1) Butt-fusion joints shall be made in accordance with ASTM F2620.
(2) Socket-fusion joints shall be made in accordance with ASTM F2620.
(3) Electrofusion joints shall be made in accordance with ASTM F1055.
1703.4.2 Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT). Polyethylene of raised temperature tubing shall be manufactured in accordance with the standards
listed in Table 1703.2. Tubing shall have a minimum wall thickness equal to SDR 9 and shall have a minimum pressure rating of not less than 160 psi (1103 kPa) at 73°F (23°C).
Polyethylene of raised temperature tubing shall be manufactured from a PE compound that has a pipe material designation code of PE 2708, PE 3608, or PE 4710 as defined in the applicable standards referenced in Table 1703.2, with a cell classification in accordance with ASTM D3350 appropriate for the material designation code.
1703.4.2.1 Joining Methods for Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT). Joints between polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) tubing and fittings shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and the
appropriate standards listed in accordance with Table 1703.3.
1703.4.3 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX). Crosslinked polyethylene pipe shall be manufactured in accordance with the standards listed in Table 1703.2. PEX
shall have a minimum tubing material designation code of PEX 1206 and shall have a minimum pressure rating of not less than 160 psi (1103 kPa) at 73°F (23°C).
CFC § 1305.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
travel distance: ______________________|Maximum exit access travel distance: ______________________|Elevator controls:|Yes _______No _______| |Means of egress emergency
lighting:|Yes _______No _______|Mixed occupancies:|Yes _______No _______| |Standpipes:|Yes _______No _______|Care recipients ability for self-preservation: ____________________|Care recipients ability for self-preservation: ____________________| |Incidental use:|Yes _______No _______|Care recipients concentration: _______________________________|Care recipients concentration: _______________________________| |Smoke compartmentation less
than 22,500 ft2 (2092 m2):|Yes _______No _______|Attendant-to-care recipients ratio: ____________________________|Attendant-to-care recipients ratio: ____________________________| |SAFETY PARAMETERS|FIRE SAFETY (FS)|MEANS OF EGRESS (ME)|GENERAL SAFETY (GS)| |1305.2.1 Building height|||| |1305.2.2 Building area|||| |1305.2.3 Compartmentation|||| |1305.2.4 Tenant and dwelling unit
separations|||| |1305.2.5 Corridor walls|||| |1305.2.6 Vertical openings|||| |1305.2.7 HVAC systems|||| |1305.2.8 Automatic fire detection|||| |1305.2.9 Fire alarm system|||| |1305.2.10 Smoke control|* * * ||| |1305.2.11 Means of egress| * * ||| |1305.2.12 Dead ends| * * ||| |1305.2.13 Maximum exit access
travel distance| * * ||| |1305.2.14 Elevator control|||| |1305.2.15 Means of egress emer-
gency lighting| * * ||| |1305.2.16 Mixed occupancies|| * * || |1305.2.17 Automatic sprinklers||÷ 2 =|| |1305.2.18 Standpipes|||| |1305.2.19 Incidental use|||| |1305.2.20 Smoke
compartmentation|||| |1305.2.21.1 Care recipients ability
for self-preservationa| * * ||| |1305.2.21.2 Care recipients
concentrationa| * * ||| |1305.2.21.3 Attendant-to-care
recipients ratioa| * * ||| |Building score–total value|||| | * * No applicable value to be inserted.
a. Only applicable to Group I-2 occupancies.| * * No applicable value to be inserted.
a. Only applicable to Group I-2 occupancies.| * * No applicable value to be inserted.
a. Only applicable to Group I-2 occupancies.| * * *No applicable value to be inserted.
a. Only applicable to Group I-2 occupancies.|2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 13-15
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PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS
1306.2 Safety scores. The values in Table 1306.2 are the required mandatory safety scores for the evaluation process listed in Section 1305.2.
CFC § 2.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
405 A .2.3.2 Extent of repair for compliant buildings. If the evaluation establishes that the building in its predamage condition complies with the provisions of Section 405.2.3.1, then the damaged elements shall be permitted to be restored to their predamage condition.
405 A .2.3.3 Extent of repair for noncompliant buildings. If the evaluation does not establish that the lateral force-resisting system of the building in its predamage condition complies with the provisions of Section 405.2.3.1, then the lateral forceresisting system, and its foundation, shall be retrofitted to comply with the provisions of this section. The wind loads for the repair and retrofit shall be those required by the building code in effect at the time of original construction, unless the damage was caused by wind, in which case the wind loads shall be in accordance with the California Building Code . The earthquake loads shall not be less than those required by the building code in effect at the time of original construction but not less than 75 percent of those prescribed in California Building Code Section 1613A. Alternatively, where the earthquake damage has not resulted in disproportionate earthquake damage or did not result in collapse, the retrofit shall be permitted to be performed in accordance with Section 304A.3.4.4 for SPC-2 buildings, Section 304A.3.4.5 for SPC-3, SPC-4D and SPC-4 buildings and Section 304A.3.4.6 for SPC-5 buildings. For SPC-5 buildings, the seismic hazard shall be permitted to be reduced to BSE-1E and BSE-2E. Use of Section 304A.3.4.5 to rehabilitate SPC-3, SPC-4D and SPC-4 buildings will result in re-classification of the building to SPC-4D. Noncompliant SPC-4 buildings may be rehabilitated to SPC-5 in accordance with Section 304A.3.4.6 using the reduced seismic hazard. New structural members and connections required by this rehabilitation design shall comply with the detailing provisions of this code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose and location.
405 A .2.4 Substantial structural damage to gravity load-carrying components. Gravity load-carrying components that have sustained substantial structural damage shall be retrofitted to comply with the applicable provisions for dead, live and snow loads in the California Building Code . Undamaged gravity load-carrying components, including undamaged foundation components, that receive dead, live or snow loads from retrofitted components shall also be retrofitted if required to comply with these design loads. New structural members and connections required by this rehabilitation design shall comply with the detailing provi- sions of this code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose and location.
405 A .2.4.1 Lateral force-resisting elements. Regardless of the level of damage to vertical elements of the lateral force-resisting system, if substantial structural damage to gravity load-carrying components was caused primarily by wind or seismic effects, then the building shall be evaluated in accordance with Section 405 A .2.3.1 and, if noncompliant, retrofitted in accordance with Section 405 A .2.3.3.
Exceptions:
CFC § 3.00 Medium relevance — show source text
120" diameter nail|12|3.00|0.70|DR|DR|2.15|DR|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|6|4.00|2.15|1.20|0.75|4.00|1.35|0.70|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|8|4.00|1.55|0.80|DR|4.00|0.90|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|12|4.00|0.90|DR|DR|2.70|0.50|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|6|4.00|3.55|2.05|1.40|4.00|2.25|1.25|0.80| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|8|4.00|2.55|1.45|0.95|4.00|1.60|0.85|0.50| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|12|4.00|1.60|0.85|0.50|4.00|0.95|DR|DR| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa.
DR = Design Required, o.c. = on center.
a. Wood framing shall be spruce-pine-fir or any wood species with a specific gravity of 0.42 or greater in accordance with ANSI/AWC NDS.
b. The thickness of wood structural panels complying with the specific gravity requirement of Note a shall be permitted to be included in satisfying the minimum penetration
into framing.
c. Nail fasteners shall comply with ASTM F1667, except nail length shall be permitted to exceed ASTM F1667 standard lengths.
d. Foam sheathing shall have a minimum compressive strength of 15 psi in accordance with ASTM C578 or ASTM C1289.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa.
DR = Design Required, o.c. = on center.
a. Wood framing shall be spruce-pine-fir or any wood species with a specific gravity of 0.42 or greater in accordance with ANSI/AWC NDS.
b. The thickness of wood structural panels complying with the specific gravity requirement of Note a shall be permitted to be included in satisfying the minimum penetration
into framing.
c. Nail fasteners shall comply with ASTM F1667, except nail length shall be permitted to exceed ASTM F1667 standard lengths.
d. Foam sheathing shall have a minimum compressive strength of 15 psi in accordance with ASTM C578 or ASTM C1289.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa.
DR = Design Required, o.c. = on center.
a.CFC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 302 A —GENERAL PROVISIONS
302 A .1 Dangerous conditions. The code official shall have the authority to require the elimination of conditions deemed dangerous.
302 A .2 Additional codes. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and struc- tures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in the California Fire Code, California Mechanical Code, California Plumbing Code and California Electrical Code. Where provisions of the other codes conflict with provisions of this chapter, the provisions of this chapter shall take precedence.
302 A .2.1 Additional codes in health care. In existing Group I-2 occupancies, ambulatory health care facilities, outpatient clinics and hyperbaric facilities, alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall also comply with NFPA 99.
302 A .3 Existing materials and equipment. Materials and equipment already in use in a building in compliance with requirements or approvals in effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be permitted to remain in use unless determined by the code official to be unsafe in accordance with California Building Code Section 116.
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
302A.3.1 Existing seismic force-resisting systems. Where the existing seismic force-resisting system is a type that can be designated ordinary or is a welded steel moment frame constructed under a permit issued prior to October 25, 1994, values of R, W0 and Cd for the existing seismic force-resisting system shall be those specified by the California Building Code for an ordinary system unless it is demonstrated that the existing system will provide performance equivalent to that of a detailed, intermediate or special system.
302 A .4 New and replacement materials. Except as otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials and equipment permitted by the applicable code for new construction shall be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs and alterations, provided no hazard to life, health or property is c reated. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for new construction would not permit their use in buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location.
302 A .4.1 New structural members and connections. New structural members and connections shall comply with the detailing provisions of the California Building Code for new buildings of similar structure, purpose and location.
Exception: Where alternative design criteria are specifically permitted.
302 A .5 Occupancy and use. Where determining the appropriate application of the referenced sections of this code, the occupancy and use of a building shall be determined in accordance with Chapter 3 of the California Building Code .
CFC § 1102.4 Medium relevance — show source text
1102.4 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code. Site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Building and Califor- nia Fire Codes.
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�
ADDITIONS
SECTION 1103—STRUCTURAL
[BS] 1103.1 Additional gravity loads. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity loadcarrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the addition and its related alterations shall be considered to be an altered element subject to the requirements of Section 805.2. Any existing element that will form part of the lateral load path for any part of the addition shall be considered to be an existing lateral load-carrying structural element subject to the requirements of Section 1103.2.
Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling units or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition together comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the California Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
[BS] 1103.2 Lateral force-resisting system. Where the addition is structurally independent of the existing structure, existing lateral load-carrying structural elements shall be permitted to remain unaltered. Where the addition is not structurally independent of the existing structure, the lateral force-resisting system of the existing structure and its addition acting together as a single structure shall comply with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 of this code.
Exceptions:
- Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the Cali- fornia Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
- Any existing lateral load-carrying structural element whose demand-capacity ratio with the addition considered is not more than 10 percent greater than its demand-capacity ratio with the addition ignored shall be permitted to remain unaltered. For purposes of calculating demand-capacity ratios, the demand shall consider applicable load combinations with design lateral loads or forces in accordance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code and Section 304.3.1 of this code . For purposes of this exception, comparisons of demand-capacity ratios and calculation of design lateral loads, forces and capacities shall account for the cumulative effects of additions and alterations since original construction.
When calculating demand-capacity ratios for wind, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 1609 of the California Building Code or the code wind forces in effect at the time. When calculating demand-capacity ratios for earthquake, the date of original construction shall be permitted to be taken as the date of completion of a prior addition, alteration or repair in compliance with Section 304.3.1 or the full seismic forces in effect at the time.
CFC § 6.6.1.4 Medium relevance — show source text
6.6.1.4 The number of fire appurtenances between sectional control valves is allowed to be modified by the authority having jurisdiction.
Revise Section 10.4.3.1.1 as follows:
10.4.3.1.1 Pipe joints shall not be located under foundation footings. The pipe under the building or building foundation shall not contain mechanical joints.
Exceptions:
1. Where allowed in accordance with 10.4.3.2.
2. Alternate designs may be utilized where designed by a registered professional engineer and approved by the enforcing agency.
Revise Section 10.9.1 as follows:
10.9.1 Backfill shall be well tamped in layers or puddle under and around pipes to prevent settlement or lateral movement. Backfill shall consist of clean fill sand or pea gravel to a minimum 6″ below and to a minimum of 12″ above the pipe and shall contain no ashes, cinders, refuse, organic matter or other corrosive materials. Other backfill materials and methods are permitted where designed by a registered professional engineer and approved by the enforcing agency.
25—13CA: California NFPA 25 Edition (Based on the 2011 Edition) Inspection, Testing and Maintenance of Water-based Fire Protection Systems Chapter 31F, 3108F
30—24: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
607.1, 5001.1, 5701.2, 5703.6.2, 5703.6.2.1, 5704.2.7, 5704.2.7.1, 5704.2.7.2, 5704.2.7.3.2, 5704.2.7.4, 5704.2.7.6, 5704.2.7.7, 5704.2.7.8, 5704.2.7.9, 5704.2.9.3, 5704.2.9.4, 5704.2.9.6.1.1, 5704.2.9.6.1.2, 5704.2.9.6.1.3, 5704.2.9.6.1.4, 5704.2.9.6.1.5, 5704.2.9.6.2, 5704.2.9.7.3, 5704.2.10.2, 5704.2.11.3, 5704.2.11.4.2, 5704.2.12.1, 5704.3.1, 5704.3.6, Table 5704.3.6.3(1), Table 5704.3.6.3(2), Table 5704.3.6.3(3), 5704.3.7.2.3, 5704.3.8.4, 5706.8.3
30A—24: Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages
2301.4, 2301.5, 2301.6, 2306.6.3, 2310.1
CFC § 1104.24 Medium relevance — show source text
1104.24 Stairway floor number signs. Existing stairways shall be marked in accordance with Section 1023.9.
1104.25 Egress path markings. Existing high-rise buildings of Group A, B, E, I, M and R-1 occupancies shall be provided with luminous egress path markings in accordance with Section 1025.
Exception: Open, unenclosed stairwells in historic buildings designated as historic under a state or local historic preservation
program.
SECTION 1105 —CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING GROUP I-2
1105.1 General. Existing Group I-2 shall meet all of the following requirements:
- The minimum fire safety requirements in Section 1103.
- The minimum means of egress requirements in Section 1104.
- The additional egress and construction requirements in Section 1105.
Where the provisions of this chapter conflict with the construction requirements that applied at the time of construction, the most restrictive provision shall apply.
1105.2 Applicability. The provisions of Sections 1105.3 through 1105.8, 1105.10 and 1105.11 shall apply to the existing Group I-2 fire area.
1105.3 Construction. Group I-2, Condition 2 shall not be located on a floor level higher than the floor level limitation in Table 1105.3 based on the type of construction.
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
TABLE 1105.3—FLOOR LEVEL LIMITATIONS FOR GROUP I-2, CONDITION 2 Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 CONSTRUCTION TYPE AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM ALLOWABLE FLOOR LEVELa ALLOWABLE FLOOR LEVELa ALLOWABLE FLOOR LEVELa ALLOWABLE FLOOR LEVELa CONSTRUCTION TYPE AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM 1 2 3 4 or more IA Note b P P P P IA Note c P P P P IB Note b P P P P IB Note c P P P P IIA Note b P P P NP IIA Note c P NP NP NP IIB Note b P P NP NP IIB Note c NP NP NP NP IIIA Note b P P NP NP IIIA Note c P NP NP NP IIIB Note b P NP NP NP IIIB Note c NP NP NP NP IV Note b P P NP NP IV Note c NP NP NP NP VA Note b P P NP NP VA Note c NP NP NP NP VB Note b P NP NP NP VB Note c NP NP NP NP P = Permitted; NP = Not Permitted.
a.CFC § 1103.4.4 Medium relevance — show source text
CLASSIFICATION**|OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION|OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION|OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION| |SECTION|High-
rise|Atrium
or
covered
mall|Under-
ground
building|Tire
storage|A|B|E|F|H-1|H-2|H-3|H-4|H-5|I-1|I-2|I-3|I-4|M|R-1|R-2|R-3|R-4|S| |1103.4.4|—|R|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |1103.4.5|—|—|—|—|—|R|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|R|—|—|—|—|—| |1103.4.6|—|—|—|—|R|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|—|R|R|R|R|R| |1103.4.7|—|—|—|—|R|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|—|R|R|R|R|R| |1103.4.8|R|—|R|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|—|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R| |1103.4.9|R|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|R|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |1103.4.10|—|—|—|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R| |1103.5.1|—|—|—|—|Rc|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |1103.5.2|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|R|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |1103.5.3|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|Rb|—|—|—|—|—|—|—|—| |1103.5.5|—|—|—|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R| |1103.6.1|R|—|R|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|—|—|R| |1103.6.2|R|—|R|—|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|R|—|—|R| |1103.CFC § 420.6 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Where the existing building is divided into smoke compartments and the addition does not result in any individual smoke compartment exceeding the size and travel distance requirements in Section 420.6 of the California Building Code, additional smoke barriers are not required.
1101.6 Enhanced classroom acoustics. In Group E occupancies, enhanced classroom acoustics shall be provided in all classrooms in the addition with a volume of 20,000 cubic feet (565 m [3] ) or less. Enhanced classroom acoustics shall comply with the reverberation time in Section 808 of ICC A117.1.
1101.7 Occupiable roofs. Where a new occupiable roof is added to a building or structure, the occupiable roof shall comply with the provisions of the California Building Code .
SECTION 1102—HEIGHTS AND AREAS
1102.1 Height limitations. An addition shall not increase the height of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings.
1102.2 Area limitations. An addition shall not increase the area of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the California Building Code for new buildings unless fire separation as required by the California Building Code is provided.
1102.3 Fire protection systems. Existing fire areas increased by the addition shall comply with Chapter 9 of the California Building Code .
Exception: Nonoccupiable appendages, such as elevator and exit stairway shafts, shall be permitted beyond that permitted by the California Building Code .
1102.4 Systems out of service. Existing fire alarm and detection systems shall be maintained in accordance with Section 901.7 of the California Fire Code. Site fire protection during construction shall be in accordance with Chapter 33 of the California Building and Califor- nia Fire Codes.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 11-3
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ADDITIONS
SECTION 1103—STRUCTURAL
[BS] 1103.1 Additional gravity loads. Any existing gravity load-carrying structural element for which an addition and its related alterations cause an increase in design dead, live or snow load, including snow drift effects, of more than 5 percent shall be replaced or altered as needed to carry the gravity loads required by the California Building Code for new structures. Any existing gravity loadcarrying structural element whose gravity load-carrying capacity is decreased as part of the addition and its related alterations shall be considered to be an altered element subject to the requirements of Section 805.2. Any existing element that will form part of the lateral load path for any part of the addition shall be considered to be an existing lateral load-carrying structural element subject to the requirements of Section 1103.2.
Exception: Buildings of Group R occupancy with not more than five dwelling units or sleeping units used solely for residential purposes where the existing building and the addition together comply with the conventional light-frame construction methods of the California Building Code or the provisions of the California Residential Code .
CFC § 1104.23 Medium relevance — show source text
Where clear openings are provided, they shall be located so as to minimize the accumulation of smoke or toxic gases.
1104.23 Minimum aisle width. The minimum clear width of aisles shall comply with the following:
- Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for stepped aisles having seating on each side.
Exception: Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the stepped aisle serves fewer than 50 seats. 2. Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for stepped aisles having seating on only one side.
Exceptions:
Thirty inches (760 mm) for catchment areas serving not more than 60 seats.
Twenty-three inches (584 mm) between a stepped aisle handrail and seating where a stepped aisle does not serve more than five rows on one side.
Twenty inches (508 mm) between a stepped aisle handrail or guard and seating where the aisle is subdivided by a mid-aisle handrail.
Forty-two inches (1067 mm) for level or ramped aisles having seating on both sides.
Exceptions:
- Thirty-six inches (914 mm) where the aisle serves fewer than 50 seats.
- Thirty inches (760 mm) where the aisle serves fewer than 15 seats and does not serve as part of an accessible route.
- Thirty-six inches (914 mm) for level or ramped aisles having seating on only one side.
Exception: Thirty inches (760 mm) for catchment areas serving not more than 60 seats and not serving as part of an accessible route.
- In Group I-2, where aisles are used for movement of patients in beds, aisles shall comply with Section 1105.6.8.
1104.24 Stairway floor number signs. Existing stairways shall be marked in accordance with Section 1023.9.
1104.25 Egress path markings. Existing high-rise buildings of Group A, B, E, I, M and R-1 occupancies shall be provided with luminous egress path markings in accordance with Section 1025.
Exception: Open, unenclosed stairwells in historic buildings designated as historic under a state or local historic preservation
program.
SECTION 1105 —CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING GROUP I-2
1105.1 General. Existing Group I-2 shall meet all of the following requirements:
- The minimum fire safety requirements in Section 1103.
- The minimum means of egress requirements in Section 1104.
- The additional egress and construction requirements in Section 1105.
Where the provisions of this chapter conflict with the construction requirements that applied at the time of construction, the most restrictive provision shall apply.
1105.2 Applicability. The provisions of Sections 1105.3 through 1105.8, 1105.10 and 1105.11 shall apply to the existing Group I-2 fire area.
1105.3 Construction. Group I-2, Condition 2 shall not be located on a floor level higher than the floor level limitation in Table 1105.3 based on the type of construction.
11-18 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
|TABLE 1105.3—FLOOR LEVEL LIMITATIONS FOR GROUP I-2,
CFC § 5303.16.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1, 5303.16.1, 5303.16.2, 5306.1, 5306.2, 5306.2.1, 5306.2.2, 5307.4.6, 5503.1.2, 5503.5.2, 5504.2.1.2, 5504.2.2.2, 5505.4.1, 5604.2, Table 5604.5.2(3), 5605.5, 5701.3, 5704.2.7.7, 5704.2.8.1, 5704.2.8.2, 5704.2.9.3, 5704.2.9.4, 5704.3.3.5, 5704.3.7.1, 5704.3.8, 5705.3.4, 5705.3.5.3, 5705.3.7.1, 5705.3.7.2, 5705.3.7.3, 5705.3.7.4, 5705.3.7.5.1, 5706.2.3, 5706.4.1, 5803.1.1, 5806.4.3, 5808.1, 5808.3, 5808.3.2, 5906.2.2, 5906.2.3, 5906.4.2, 6003.1.4.2, 6005.3.1, 6109.11.2, 6204.1.2, 6306.4, 6404.1.4, 6604.1
CEBC—25: California Existing Building Code
102.3, 1011.5.2, 1103.1, 1104.18, 1105.5.2
CMC—25: California Mechanical Code
201.3, 308.3, 605.1, 605.2.1.1, 605.2.1.2, 605.2.1.3, 605.2.1.4, 605.2.1.5, 605.3, 605.4, 605.4.2.3, 605.4.2.5, 605.5.2, 605.7, 606.1, 606.2, 608.1, 608.3, 608.4, 608.5, 608.8, 608.9.1, 608.10, 608.17, 610.1.1, 903.2.11.4, 904.14, 907.3.1, 909.1, 909.10.2, 909.13.1, 910.4.7, 915.6.1, 1006.2.2.3, 1011.16, 1020.6.1, 1207.4.7, 1207.6.1, 1207.6.1.2.2, 1207.11.8, 2104.2.1, 2105.3, 2301.1, 2301.6, 2309.3.1.2, 2311.3.1, 2311.4.3, 2311.8.2, 2311.
Frequently asked questions
Who must follow Table 1103.1?
Owners and designers of existing buildings — buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code — must comply with the minimum items listed in Table 1103.1 and companion sections 1103.2–1103.10 unless an exception applies. § 1103.1
Is my Group U building covered?
No. Group U occupancies are explicitly excluded from the Table 1103.1 retrofit requirements in § 1103.1.
What does an "R" in the matrix mean?
An "R" in the Table 1103.1 matrix indicates that the retrofit sub‑section (the table row) is required for that occupancy column. You must then read the referenced sub‑section to determine scope and specifics. (An uploaded excerpt shows the matrix format; consult the full table.)
Can an approved CEBC fire‑resistance change avoid a retrofit?
Potentially. § 1103.1 allows an exception where a change in fire‑resistance rating has been approved in accordance with CEBC § 501.2 or § 802.6; such CEBC approvals can change applicability. Confirm with the code official and the CEBC text.
Where do I find the detailed requirements for a row marked in the table?
Each table row corresponds to a CFC sub‑section (for example, 1103.5.5). After locating the row and seeing the "R" for your occupancy, read the full text of that CFC sub‑section (1103.2–1103.10 as applicable) for the specific criteria and scope. The uploaded files show the mapping but not the full text of every sub‑section.
More in California Fire Code
- Administration and Definitions
- General Requirements and Emergency Planning
- Fire Service Features and Fire Department Access
- Referenced Standards and Adoptable Appendices (Chapter 80; Appendices A–Q)
- Fire and Smoke Protection Features (fire‑resistance, barriers)
- Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
- Fire Protection and Life‑Safety Systems (sprinklers, alarms, smoke control)
- Means of Egress (exit design and maintenance)
- Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings (retrofit rules)
- Energy Systems and Stationary Energy Storage (ESS)
- Special Occupancies and Operations (chapters 20–41, 48–49)
- Hazardous Materials — Storage, Use and Handling (Chapters 50–67)
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