CFC · California Fire Code
Key Chapter 11 definitions (what the code means by 'existing')
Short answer for a homeowner: Chapter 11 doesn’t re-define “existing” — **§ 1102.1** tells you to look at the code’s Chapter 2 definition. Practically, Chapter 11 applies to buildings built before the code was adopted (see **§ 1101.1**) and then uses that meaning throughout the chapter for retrofit/alteration rules; I couldn’t find the literal Chapter 2 wording in the files you gave me, so I can fetch or paste the exact Chapter 2 definition if you want.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
Section § 1102.1 of the California Fire Code (CFC) does not print a new dictionary entry in Chapter 11; instead it directs the reader to Chapter 2 for the definition of the term EXISTING. In practice, Chapter 11’s requirements apply to existing buildings as described by the CFC’s scope (for example, buildings “constructed prior to the adoption of this code”) and to provisions that repeatedly use the word existing throughout Chapter 11 (see § 1101.1 and § 1103.1) .
Plain-English rule: when Chapter 11 says “existing”, use the Chapter 2 definition for that term — Chapter 11 itself defers that definition to Chapter 2 (see § 1102.1) and applies those defined “existing” buildings in its scope and requirements (see § 1101.1 and § 1103.1) .
Requirements in detail
Controlling text and how it works
- § 1102.1: “The following terms are defined in Chapter 2: ... EXISTING.” — Chapter 11 therefore relies on the code-wide, Chapter 2 definition rather than restating it in Chapter 11 .
- § 1101.1 (scope) clarifies how Chapter 11 applies: “The provisions of this chapter shall apply to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of this code.” This language is the operative hook for determining whether a particular building falls under Chapter 11’s retrofit/alteration rules .
- § 1103.1 and other Chapter 11 provisions repeatedly use existing (for example, “Existing buildings shall comply…”) — those applications use the Chapter 2 meaning that § 1102.1 points you to .
Decision table — what matters when you ask “Is this building ‘existing’ under Chapter 11?”
| Decision dimension | Typical values / threshold | What it affects | Code reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Date of original construction vs code adoption | Constructed prior to the adoption date of the controlling CFC edition | Whether Chapter 11 scope applies | § 1101.1 — see CFC Chapter 11 scope |
| Source of the definition | Chapter 2 (central definitions) | Exact, authoritative meaning of the word EXISTING for code interpretation | § 1102.1 (delegates term to Chapter 2) |
| Application context in Chapter 11 | e.g., additions, alterations, systems maintenance | Which specific Chapter 11 rules (heights, areas, fire systems, means of egress, etc.) apply to the building | See Chapter 11 provisions such as § 1102.1, § 1102.2, § 1103.1 |
| If the building has been gutted or rebuilt | Extent of work (minor repair vs interior removed/structural replaced) | May change whether a structure is treated as “existing” or as a “new” building under other codes | Chapter 2 cross-references and CBC/CEBC guidance (see Chapter 2 notes) — Chapter 11 points to Chapter 2 for definitions |
Notes on the table: the CFC text in § 1102.1 itself does not reproduce the wording of Chapter 2; it simply cites Chapter 2 as the source for the term EXISTING; the CFC’s Chapter 11 scope (§ 1101.1) clarifies the practical tenure test (constructed prior to adoption) for Chapter 11’s application .
Where the official definition lives
- The code tells you to look in Chapter 2 (Definitions) for the authoritative wording of EXISTING — § 1102.1 delegates the definition to Chapter 2 rather than restating it in Chapter 11 .
- I could not locate the verbatim Chapter 2 entry for EXISTING in the provided files; Chapter 11’s instruction to consult Chapter 2 is explicit, but the exact Chapter 2 text for EXISTING was not returned in the search results I received. If you want the literal Chapter 2 wording, please provide Chapter 2 from the CFC or allow me to search the full CFC file set for that term.
Exceptions & special cases
- Chapter 11 itself contains exceptions and topic-specific rules (for example, additions that increase height or area are governed by § 1102.1, § 1102.2 and related text) — those rules apply to existing buildings as the chapter defines its scope (e.g., § 1101.1) .
- If an alteration or addition effectively makes a building “new” (for example, where exterior preservation is the only thing retained but the interior and structure are removed), other codes such as the California Building Code may treat the work as new construction — Chapter 11 points you back to the codewide definitions and to related chapters for such boundary cases (Chapter 2 and CBC cross-references) .
- Where Chapter 11 references specific systems (fire alarms, sprinklers), separate maintenance/retrofit rules apply to systems already in service; see Chapter 11 provisions and cross-references (e.g., maintenance of fire alarm/detection systems) .
Common mistakes
- Treating § 1102.1 as a definition line: many practitioners expect Chapter 11 to define “existing” in-place; instead § 1102.1 defers to Chapter 2 — always check Chapter 2 before drawing conclusions .
- Relying only on calendar age without checking what “constructed prior to adoption” means in context: Chapter 11’s scope language (§ 1101.1) is the practical test for the chapter’s application; if the work essentially creates a “new” building, other code chapters may govern .
- Ignoring cross-code references: Chapter 11 repeatedly ties into the California Building Code (heights/areas, smoke barriers) and the Existing Building Code — interpretation of “existing” can be affected by those cross-references; always trace the chain of cited sections rather than stopping at § 1102.1 .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A two-story commercial building was originally built in 1995. The jurisdiction adopts the 2025 CFC (effective 1/1/2026). In 2026 the owner proposes interior renovations and an exterior addition.
Step-by-step:
- Is the building “existing” for Chapter 11? Yes — it was “constructed prior to the adoption of this code,” so Chapter 11’s retroactive/upgrade rules apply (see § 1101.1) .
- For the addition: check § 1102.1–1102.3 logic in Chapter 11 — additions cannot increase the height or area of an existing building beyond what the CBC allows for new buildings unless specific separation or other measures are provided; construction of the addition may therefore trigger compliance with height/area limitations or fire protection upgrades (see § 1102.1, § 1102.2, § 1102.3) .
- For interior renovation: Chapter 11’s table and sections such as § 1103.1 set minimum retrofit items for existing buildings; the building owner should consult the specific occupancy/use table and the Chapter 11 text for what minimums apply to this building type (see § 1103.1) .
Numbers example: if the addition would increase the building height from 2 stories to 4 stories, Chapter 11 instructs that an addition “shall not increase the height of an existing building beyond that permitted under the applicable provisions of Chapter 5 of the CBC for new buildings” — meaning you must evaluate the allowable heights under CBC Chapter 5 for the occupancy or provide required fire separations or fire-resistance upgrades to meet the CBC limits (see § 1102.1 and § 1102.2) .
Related provisions
- § 1102.1 — Delegation to Chapter 2 for the definition of EXISTING (primary controlling section) .
- § 1101.1 — Scope: Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of this code (practical tenure test) .
- § 1103.1 — “Existing buildings shall comply…” — Chapter 11 minimum requirements for existing buildings (applies the meaning of existing) .
- § 1102.2 / § 1102.3 — Chapter 11 height and area limits and how additions to existing buildings are treated (useful for borderline cases) .
- Chapter 2 (Definitions) — authoritative source for the exact wording of EXISTING; Chapter 11 points you here via § 1102.1 (I did not find the literal Chapter 2 text for EXISTING in the files you provided; please supply if you want the verbatim definition) .
If you’d like, I can:
- locate and paste the exact Chapter 2 wording for EXISTING (if you upload Chapter 2 or allow a full-text search of the CFC), and then update this article to include that literal text and any nuance it contains; or
- run a jurisdictional check: sometimes states/local amendments alter the precise Chapter 2 definition — I can check a particular local adoption if you tell me the local code edition.
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
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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 § 10-46 High relevance — show source text
1023 Interior Exit Stairways and Ramps. . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-46 1024 Exit Passageways. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-49 1025 Luminous Egress Path Markings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-50 1026 Horizontal Exits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-51
1027 Exterior Exit Stairways and Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-52 1028 Exit Discharge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-53 1029 Egress Courts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-54 1030 Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-54 1031 Emergency Escape and Rescue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-61 1032 Maintenance of the Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . .10-64
CHAPTER 11 CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
EXISTING BUILDINGS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
1101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1102 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1103 Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Buildings. . . 11-3 1104 Means of Egress for Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . .11-13 1105 Construction Requirements for Existing Group I-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-18 1106 Requirements for Outdoor Operations. . . . . . . . . .11-22 1107 Energy Storage Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-23 1108 Group A Public Address System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-23 1109 _through 1112 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CFC § 1207 Medium relevance — show source text
The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7 of the CBC), interior finish (see Chapter 8 of the CBC), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and intends to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for retroactive requirements to install or upgrade fire safety features to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the CBC. Prior to the 2009 edition, its content existed in the CFC but in a random manner that was neither efficient nor user-friendly. In the 2007/2008 International Code Council (ICC) code development cycle, a code change (F294-07/ 08) was approved that consolidated the retroactive elements of CFC into a single chapter for easier and more efficient reference and application to existing buildings.
Chapter 12 Energy Systems
Chapter 12 addresses any provisions related to energy systems found in the CFC. The expansion of such energy systems is related to meeting today’s energy, environmental and economic challenges. Ensuring appropriate criteria to address the safety of such systems in building and fire codes is an important part of protecting the public at large, building occupants and emergency responders. These requirements also facilitate the successful implementation of new technologies.
All text in Section 1207 of the 2024 CFC with the following designation (Material based on NFPA 855 2023 Ed.) is reproduced with permission from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and is based upon NFPA 855, Standard for the Installation of Station- ary Energy Storage Systems, Copyright © 2023 NFPA. All designated text is either directly copied from the 2023 edition of NFPA 855 or as modified by the ICC Code Development Process. This material is not the complete and official position of NFPA on the referenced subject, which is represented solely by the standard in its entirety. NFPA shall not be responsible for the manner in which this information is presented, nor for any interpretations thereof.
Chapters 13 through 19 Reserved for future use.
PART IV—SPECIAL OCCUPANCIES AND OPERATIONS
Chapter 20 Aviation Facilities
Chapter 20 specifies minimum requirements for the fire-safe operation of airports, heliports and helistops. The principal nonflight operational hazards associated with aviation involve fuel, facilities and operations. Therefore, safe use of flammable and combustible liquids during fueling and maintenance operations is emphasized. Availability of portable Class B:C-rated fire extinguishers for prompt control or suppression of incipient fires is required.
Chapter 21 Dry Cleaning
CFC § 10-3 Medium relevance — show source text
1003 Building Elements and Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1004 Fire Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1005 Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1006 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
1007 Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
1008 Mechanical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
1009 Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
1010 Other Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
1011 Change of Occupancy Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5
CHAPTER 11 ADDITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
1101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1102 Heights and Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1103 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
1104 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
CHAPTER 12 HISTORIC BUILDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
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CHAPTER 13 PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS. . 13-3
1301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
1302 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
1303 Acceptance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
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.
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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 § 701 Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 7 Fire and Smoke Protection Features
The maintenance of assemblies required to be fire-resistance rated is a key component in a passive fire protection philosophy. Chapter 7 sets forth requirements to maintain required fire-resistance ratings of building elements and limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the basics of what construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers need to be maintained as well as defining the owner’s responsibility. Sections 703 through 708, deals with various fire and smoke protection features that must also be maintained.
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Chapter 8 Interior Finish, Decorative Materials and Furnishings
The overall purpose of Chapter 8 is to regulate interior finishes, decorative materials and furnishings in new and existing buildings so that they do not significantly add to or create fire hazards within buildings. This chapter is consistent with Chapter 8 of the CBC, which regulates the interior finishes of new buildings.
Chapter 9 Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Chapter 9 prescribes the minimum requirements for active systems of fire protection equipment to perform the following functions: detect a fire, alert the occupants or fire department of a fire emergency, and control smoke and control or extinguish the fire. Generally, the requirements are based on the occupancy, the height and the area of the building because these are the factors that most affect firefighting capabilities and the relative hazard of a specific building or portion thereof. This chapter parallels and is substantially duplicated in Chapter 9 of the CBC; however, this chapter also contains periodic testing criteria that are not contained in the CBC. In addition, the special fire protection system requirements based on use and occupancy found in CBC Chapter 4 are duplicated in CFC Chapter 9 as a user convenience.
Chapter 10 Means of Egress
The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7 of the CBC), interior finish (see Chapter 8 of the CBC), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
Chapter 11 Construction Requirements for Existing Buildings
Chapter 11 applies to existing buildings constructed prior to the adoption of the code and intends to provide a minimum degree of fire and life safety to persons occupying existing buildings by providing for retroactive requirements to install or upgrade fire safety features to such buildings that do not comply with the minimum requirements of the CBC. Prior to the 2009 edition, its content existed in the CFC but in a random manner that was neither efficient nor user-friendly. In the 2007/2008 International Code Council (ICC) code development cycle, a code change (F294-07/ 08) was approved that consolidated the retroactive elements of CFC into a single chapter for easier and more efficient reference and application to existing buildings.
Chapter 12 Energy Systems
CFC § 11-3 Medium relevance — show source text
1101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1102 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1103 Fire Safety Requirements for Existing Buildings. . . 11-3 1104 Means of Egress for Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . .11-13 1105 Construction Requirements for Existing Group I-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-18 1106 Requirements for Outdoor Operations. . . . . . . . . .11-22 1107 Energy Storage Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-23 1108 Group A Public Address System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-23 1109 through 1112 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-23 1113 Existing Group R-1 and Group R-2 Occupancies [SFM] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-23 1114 Existing High-Rise Buildings [SFM]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-25 1115 Existing Group I Occupancies [SFM]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-28 1116 Existing Group L and Group H-8 Occupancies [SFM] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-28
CHAPTER 12 ENERGY SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3
1201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-3
CFC § 1101.2 Medium relevance — show source text
1101.2 Creation or extension of nonconformity. An addition shall not create or extend any nonconformity in the existing building to which the addition is being made with regard to accessibility, structural strength, supports and attachments for nonstructural components, fire safety, means of egress or the capacity of mechanical, plumbing or electrical systems.
Exception: Nonconforming supports and attachments for nonstructural components that serve the addition from within the existing building need not be altered to comply with California Building Code Section 1613 unless the components are part of the addition’s life safety system or are required to serve an addition assigned to Risk Category IV.
[BS] 1101.3 Risk category assignment. Where the addition and the existing building have different occupancies, the risk category of each existing and added occupancy shall be determined in accordance with Section 1604.5.1 of the California Building Code . Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the existing building compared with the risk category for the existing building before the addition, such a change shall be considered a change of occupancy and shall comply with Chapter 10 of this code. Where application of that section results in a higher risk category for the addition compared with the risk category for the addition by itself, the addition and any systems in the existing building required to serve the addition shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code for new construction for the higher risk category.
1101.4 Other work. Any repair or alteration work within an existing building to which an addition is being made shall comply with the applicable requirements for the work as classified in Chapter 6.
1101.5 Smoke barriers in Group R-2.1 . Where an addition to an existing Group R-2.1 building adds sleeping areas that result in more than 50 care recipients on a story, smoke barriers shall be provided to subdivide such story into not fewer than two smoke compartments in accordance with Section 420.6 of the California Building Code .
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 .
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 § 8-11 Medium relevance — show source text
In addition to the required description on the reverse side of the certificate as to yardage or quantity, color and kind, notation should be made of the manufacturer’s production or lot control number, the purchase order or invoice number, and, where possible, the ulti- mate location and use.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1324] Job Labeling.
To every article that is treated and to every roll or package of registered approved fabric or material, a small label or tag shall be securely affixed, bearing the following information:
(a) The Seal of Registration of the State Fire Marshal of California.
(b) Name and registration number of the concern responsible for the job or production.
(c) Name of the registered chemical used or the registered fabric or material.
(d) Date the chemical was applied, or the fabric or material was produced.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 8-11
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INTERIOR FINISH, DECORATIVE MATERIALS AND FURNISHINGS
(e) The statement, “This article must be re-treated after washing or dry cleaning by systems with soap and water added” (if treated with a “Type II” chemical).
This information may be stamped, printed or stenciled on the article if so desired.
Concerns which treat or manufacture yardage goods may print or stencil their name, or the name of their fabric if registered, on the salvage (at least once every three yards) instead of affixing the label or tag as above.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1325] Labeling Required .
No drape, hanging, curtain, drop or similar decorative material or exterior fabric which has been treated by a registered flame-retardant application concern, either as yardage or after fabrication, or which is made from a registered approved fabric shall be installed after the effective date of these rules and regulations [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 8] in any place or under any condition governed by Sections 13115 and 13119 of the Health and Safety Code unless such drape, hanging, curtain, drop, or similar decorative material or exterior fabric shall be labeled as required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 1324.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1326] Retreatment.
In cases where instructions are issued by the State Fire Marshal requiring retreatment or replacement of fabrics or materials previously treated with a flame-retardant chemical or registered as an approved fabric or material, the retreatment or replacement shall be made within ten (10) days after date of the order so requiring. A new certificate of flame resistance covering each such retreatment shall be delivered as for an original job as is provided for by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 1321. A new sample of the retreated fabric or material shall be attached to the certificate of flame resistance submitted to the State Fire Marshal.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1327] Installation.
CFC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
The minimum thickness is permitted to be reduced 2 inches, provided that the minimum specified compressive strength of concrete,f′c, is 4,000 psi.
m.A plain concrete wall with a minimum nominal thickness of 12 inches is permitted, provided that the minimum specified compressive strength of concrete,f′c, is 3,500 psi.
n. See Table R608.3 for tolerance from nominal thickness permitted for flat walls.
o. The use of this table shall be prohibited for soil classifications not shown.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPa2/m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NR = Not Required.
DR = Design Required.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R401.4.1(2).
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi.
c. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section
R404.1.3.3.7.6 and Table R404.1.3.2(9).
d. NR indicates vertical wall reinforcement is not required, except for 6-inch nominal walls formed with stay-in-place forming systems in which case vertical reinforcement shall
be No. 4@48 inches on center.
e. Allowable deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the unsupported height of the basement wall in inches.
f. Interpolation is not permitted.
g. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling.
h. Vertical reinforcement shall be located to provide a cover of 11/4 inches measured from the inside face of the wall. The center of the steel shall not vary from the specified loca-
tion by more than the greater of 10 percent of the wall thickness or3/8 inch.
i. Concrete cover for reinforcement measured from the inside face of the wall shall be not less than3/4 inch. Concrete cover for reinforcement measured from the outside face of
the wall shall be not less than 11/2 inches for No. 5 bars and smaller, and not less than 2 inches for larger bars.
j. DR means design is required in accordance with the applicable building code, or in the absence of a code, in accordance with ACI 318.
k. Concrete shall have a specified compressive strength,f′c, of not less than 2,500 psi at 28 days, unless a higher strength is required by Note l or m.
l. The minimum thickness is permitted to be reduced 2 inches, provided that the minimum specified compressive strength of concrete,f′c, is 4,000 psi.
m.A plain concrete wall with a minimum nominal thickness of 12 inches is permitted, provided that the minimum specified compressive strength of concrete,f′c, is 3,500 psi.
n. See Table R608.3 for tolerance from nominal thickness permitted for flat walls.
o.CFC § 11-3 Medium relevance — show source text
1101 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1102 Heights and Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-3
1103 Structural. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
1104 Energy Conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-4
CHAPTER 12 HISTORIC BUILDINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
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CHAPTER 13 PERFORMANCE COMPLIANCE METHODS. . 13-3
1301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
1302 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
1303 Acceptance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1304 Investigation and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1305 Scoring and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
1306 Building Score . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
1307 Evaluation of Building Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
CHAPTER 14 RELOCATED OR MOVED BUILDINGS . . . . . . 14-3
1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1402 Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
CHAPTER 15 CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1502 Owner’s Responsibility for Fire Protection . . . . . . . 15-3
1503 Sanitary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-4
CFC § 1101.4.1 Medium 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 § 104.8 Medium relevance — show source text
Board of Appeals 104.8, 112, Appendix D Building Area 503.5, 503.7, 503.8, 503.9, 503.10, 503.11, 503.16, 503.18, 506.5.2, 506.5.3, 506.6, 603.1, 604.1, 1006.2, 1006.3, 1011.6, 1011.6.1, 1011.6.1.1, 1011.6.2, Table 1011.6, 1102, 1302.1.3, 1305.2.2 Dangerous 104.4, 114.1, 117.1, 202, 302.1 Height 202, 502.1, 804.4.1.1, 1011.6, Table 1011.6, 1011.7.1, 1011.7.3, 1102, 1302.1.3, 1305.2.1, Table 1306.1, A301.2 Historic Chapter 12, 202, 401.1, 501.1, 507, 601.1, 607, 701.1, 1301.1, B101 Relocatable 202, 1401.1 Relocated Chapter 14, 301.4
INDEX
Relocation of 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 104.3, 301.1 Unsafe 104.4, 115, 116, 117.1, 202
Carbon Monoxide 308 Carpeting 105.2, 702.2 Ceiling 702.1, 801.4, 802.2.1, 802.4, 903.2.1, 1011.3, 1011.5.1, 1305.2.3.3, A105.3, A113.1 Certificate of Occupancy 110, 506.2, 1001.2,
1001.3 Change of Occupancy Chapter 10, 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 104.3, 104.3.2, 106.2.6, 110.1, 115.5, 202, 301.1, 301.3, 307.1, 308.1, 501.1, 505.3, 506, 601.1, 605, 702.5, 1301.1, 1302.1, 1302.1.6, 1304.1.1, 1304.1.3, 1305.2.17, 1307.1.1, 1401.2, B101.2, B101.3, B101.4, C101.1, C201.1 Change of Use 202 Classroom Acoustics 502.6, 503.16, 506.6, 903.4, 1011.4, 1101.4 Code Official Chapter 1, 202, 301.3, 302.1, 302.3, 303.2.1, 304.2, 405.2.3.1, 501.2, 506.1, 506.1.1, 802.6, 804.2,
CFC § 505.2 Medium relevance — show source text
3, 505.2, 603 Level 3 Chapter 9, 106.2.3, 604, 1011.4 Alternative Materials, Design and Methods of Construction 104.2.3 Ambulatory Care Facility 202, 302.2.1, 406.1.2, 408.3, 501.3, 503.15, 503.17, 804.4,
902.3
Appeals 104.8, 112, 116.6 Approved 202 Approved Agency A304.2.6, 104.2.3.6.1, 202 Archaic Materials and Assemblies
Resource A
Architect (see Registered Design Professional) Area (see Building) Automatic Sprinkler System 110.2, 501.2, 504.5, 802.2.1, 802.6, 803.1.1, 803.2, 804.5.1.1, Table 804.5.1.1(1), 804.5.1.2.1, 804.5.1.2.2, 804.7.1, 804.8, 904.1, 1011.2.1, 1011.6.1, 1011.6.1.1, 1011.7.3, 1011.8.3, 1305.1.1, Table 1305.2.9, 1305.2.10.1, 1305.2.17, 1305.2.17.1, Table 1305.2.17, 1305.2.19, Table 1305.2.19, 1507
Board of Appeals 104.8, 112, Appendix D Building Area 503.5, 503.7, 503.8, 503.9, 503.10, 503.11, 503.16, 503.18, 506.5.2, 506.5.3, 506.6, 603.1, 604.1, 1006.2, 1006.3, 1011.6, 1011.6.1, 1011.6.1.1, 1011.6.2, Table 1011.6, 1102, 1302.1.3, 1305.2.2 Dangerous 104.4, 114.1, 117.1, 202, 302.1 Height 202, 502.1, 804.4.1.1, 1011.6, Table 1011.6, 1011.7.1, 1011.7.3, 1102, 1302.1.3, 1305.2.1, Table 1306.1, A301.2 Historic Chapter 12, 202, 401.1, 501.1, 507, 601.1, 607, 701.1, 1301.1, B101 Relocatable 202, 1401.1 Relocated Chapter 14, 301.4
INDEX
Relocation of 101.2, 101.3, 101.4, 104.3, 301.1 Unsafe 104.4, 115, 116, 117.1, 202
CFC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt Entire Chapter X X Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)X X X X X X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowX X X X Chapter / Section REROOFING X ROOF COATING X ROOF RECOVER X ROOF REPAIR X ROOF REPLACEMENT X SPC SEISMIC SEPARATION X X SUBSTANDARD BUILDING X X SUBSTANTIAL STRUCTURAL
DAMAGEX X UNREINFORCED CONCRETE X X X X X UNREINFORCED MASONRY X X X X X UNSAFE X X X VOLUNTARY STRUCTURAL
IMPROVEMENTSX X X X X WORK AREA X 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.
2-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
Frequently asked questions
What exactly does § 1102.1 say about "existing"?
Section § 1102.1 does not define the word inside Chapter 11; it states that the term EXISTING (and other listed terms) are defined in Chapter 2 of the code, so you must consult Chapter 2 for the authoritative definition .
If a building was rebuilt inside but the exterior remains, is it still "existing"?
Chapter 11 refers you to Chapter 2 for definitions and to other code cross-references; treatment can depend on how complete the reconstruction is — some work may cause the building to be treated as “new” under related building-code provisions. Chapter 11’s scope and cross-references (and CBC guidance) must be consulted; the CFC points you to Chapter 2 and to the CBC/Existing Building Code for such boundary determinations .
Where can I find the literal Chapter 2 wording for "existing"?
Chapter 11 directs you to Chapter 2, but the literal Chapter 2 text for EXISTING wasn’t included in the files I searched. If you provide Chapter 2 of the CFC or allow me to search the full CFC text, I will extract the exact wording for you.
Who decides whether a building is "existing" versus "new" for a specific permit?
The code’s definitions and the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) make the final determination. Chapter 11 sets the scope and points to Chapter 2 for definitions; the AHJ (local building/fire official) applies those definitions to the facts of the job (and may consult CBC or Existing Building Code cross-references) .
Does Chapter 11 allow removing fire protection systems in an “existing” building?
No — Chapter 11’s provisions “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” — existing systems are protected by the chapter’s intent and cross-references (see § 1103.1) .
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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