CHBC · California Historical Building Code

Door clearances, minimum widths and power-assisted door allowances

Q: If a double door pair is used with power‑assist, how wide must the opening be?

When both leaves are in the open position the combined clear opening must be at least 29 1/2 in (749 mm) to meet the CHBC alternative in § 8-603.3 ; power‑assist allowances are described in § 8-603.4 .

Q: Which is preferred: make one leaf 30" or add power‑assist?

The CHBC preference (priority order in § 8-603.3 ) favors a single‑leaf 30 in (762 mm) clear opening first. Power‑assist is a later alternative and best used when achieving the preferred dimensions would harm historical fabric. Always follow the priority and document the rationale § 8-603.3 , § 8-603.4 , and § 8-602.2 .

The CHBC allows prioritized alternatives for historic doors: prefer a single‑leaf with a 30‑inch clear opening, otherwise 29½‑inch single leaf or one leaf of a double door, and where needed double doors with power‑assist to produce a 29½‑inch opening. Power‑assisted doors may substitute for a level landing, strike‑side clearance and opening force limits if altering the landing would damage historic features; all alternatives must be applied case‑by‑case with documentation and Title III exceptions considered (see **§ 8-603.3** and **§ 8-603.4**) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The California Historical Building Code allows a set of prioritized alternatives for door clearances rather than strict compliance with the regular accessibility widths. The first priority is a single‑leaf door with a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) clear opening; alternatives step down to 29 1/2 inches (749 mm) and include double doors or double doors with power-assist to achieve the same clear opening. These alternatives are established in § 8-603.3 and the allowance for power‑assisted doors to substitute for level landings, strike‑side clearance and reduced opening forces is in § 8-603.4 .

The CHBC gives a prioritized set of door options (30" single leaf → 29½" single leaf → 29½" one leaf of double door → 29½" with power‑assist) so historical entrances can be made accessible without destroying character‑defining features. See § 8-603.3 and § 8-603.4 .

Requirements in detail

Priority of acceptable door alternatives (summary)

First priority: Single‑leaf door with minimum 30 inches (762 mm) clear opening. § 8-603.3
Second priority: Single‑leaf door with minimum 29 1/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening. § 8-603.3
Third priority: Double doors where one leaf provides minimum 29 1/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening. § 8-603.3
Fourth priority: Double doors operable with a power‑assist device that together provide minimum 29 1/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position. § 8-603.3

Key numeric values (decision‑relevant)

Requirement / value	Value (in / mm)	Code Reference
Preferred clear opening for single leaf	30 in / 762 mm	§ 8-603.3
Alternate clear opening allowed (single leaf)	29 1/2 in / 749 mm	§ 8-603.3
One leaf of double door (minimum)	29 1/2 in / 749 mm	§ 8-603.3
Double doors with power‑assist (both open)	29 1/2 in / 749 mm	§ 8-603.3; power‑assist allowance § 8-603.4
Power‑assist may substitute for landings, strikeside clearance and opening forces	N/A (equivalency allowance)	§ 8-603.4

How the power‑assist allowance functions

§ 8-603.4 permits a power‑assisted door or doors to be treated as an equivalent alternative to several regular‑code requirements: level landings, strike‑side clearance, and door‑opening forces. Use of power‑assist can therefore be the method by which a historic door that cannot be altered to provide a level landing or full strike clearance still meets the CHBC alternative criteria .
Note that § 8-603.2 clarifies that CHBC alternatives do not allow exceptions to level landings except where § 8-603.4 specifically provides them; therefore power‑assist is the mechanism to address landing issues without violating § 8-603.2 .

Exceptions & special cases

The alternatives in § 8-603.3 (the prioritized door options) do not apply to alterations of commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities) — see the exception attached to § 8-603.3 .
The general CHBC rule is that the regular code (Chapter 11B) applies unless strict compliance threatens or destroys historical significance; CHBC alternatives are applied case‑by‑case with documentation required under § 8-602.2 (item‑by‑item application and retained documentation) .
Power‑assisted doors under § 8-603.4 can be used to address:
- Lack of level landings immediately in front of doors (where modifying landings would harm historic fabric), and
- Strike‑side clearance and excessive door‑opening forces specified in the regular code — but the design must actually achieve equivalent usability and shall be documented per CHBC procedures .

Common mistakes

Treating the CHBC alternatives as automatic waivers: these alternatives must be applied item‑by‑item and justified in writing — do not assume blanket approval for all historic doors; see § 8-602.2 and the prioritization in § 8-603.3 .
Confusing the numeric thresholds: the CHBC first‑choice is 30 in (762 mm) — only after that do the 29 1/2 in (749 mm) options apply. Always verify which priority level is being used (§ 8-603.3) .
Omitting the Title III exception: alterations to commercial public‑accommodation facilities may not use the § 8-603.3 alternatives — check the exception in § 8-603.3 .
Assuming power‑assist removes all other requirements: § 8-603.4 allows power‑assist as an equivalent for specific items (landings, strike clearance, opening forces) — it does not automatically waive other accessibility requirements; documentation and justification are still required .

Worked example — applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: A historic civic building has a pair of original double leaf doors. Each leaf, when measured open, provides 14 inches (356 mm) of clear width (too small individually). There is a shallow exterior step; installing a level landing would require extensive reconstruction that would damage the door surround.

Step 1 — Check priority list in § 8-603.3: a single leaf of 30 in (762 mm) is the first choice; not available. A single leaf of 29 1/2 in (749 mm) is next; not available. One leaf of the double door with 29 1/2 in is not present either .

Step 2 — Consider the fourth priority: can the pair be made to provide 29 1/2 in (749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position? Combined, the two leaves currently provide 28 in (712 mm) (14 in + 14 in). That is still below 29 1/2 in; therefore simply opening both manually would not meet § 8-603.3 .

Step 3 — Evaluate § 8-603.4 power‑assist equivalency: because installing a level landing would harm character‑defining features, use of a power‑assist device could be proposed to (a) make both leaves open and align to provide the required 29 1/2 in (749 mm) clear opening and (b) reduce opening forces and address strike‑side clearance. The design must demonstrably achieve the 29 1/2 in clear opening and equivalent functionality; document this justification in the permanent file per § 8-602.2. If the installed power‑assist plus door opening produces at least 29 1/2 in (749 mm) when both leaves are open, the CHBC alternative can be used (subject to the Title III exception if the project is a Title III alteration) .

Result: If the power‑assist hardware permits both leaves to open fully so the net clear opening measures ≥ 29 1/2 in (749 mm) and reduces opening force/strike clearance as needed, the CHBC permits that solution under § 8-603.3 and § 8-603.4, provided the project is not a Title III alteration or otherwise excluded and required documentation is retained .

Related CHBC provisions

§ 8-603.2 — Entry (alternatives do not allow exceptions for level landings except as provided in § 8-603.4) .
§ 8-602.2 — Alternative provisions: item‑by‑item application and required documentation when alternatives are used (documentation retained in enforcing agency file) .
§ 8-603.5 — Toilet rooms (other CHBC alternatives that may be applied when historic features limit compliance) .
§ 8-604 — Equivalent facilitation: use of other designs/technologies where Section 8‑603 alternatives would threaten historical significance (case‑by‑case) .
§ 8-601.3 / § 8-601.4 — Scope and general application of the CHBC (where the chapter applies and to which projects) .

Code references

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

CHBC § 8-602 High relevance — show source text
** The provisions in the CHBC apply to local, state and federal
governments (Title II entities); alteration of commercial facilities and places of public
accommodation (Title III entities); and barrier removal in commercial facilities and places of
public accommodation (Title III entities). Except as noted in this chapter.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |SECTION 8-602 — BASIC PROVISIONS
8-602.1 Regular code. The regular code for access for people with disabilities (Title 24, Part
2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B) shall be applied to qualified historical buildings or properties unless
strict compliance with the regular code will threaten or destroy the historical significance or
character-defining features of the building or property.
**8-602.2 Alternative provisions.**If the historical significance or character-defining features
are threatened, alternative provisions for access may be applied pursuant to this chapter,
provided the following conditions are met:
1.These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis.
2.Documentation is provided, including meeting minutes or letters, stating the reasons
for the application of the alternative provisions. Such documentation shall be retained
in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |Section 8-603 — ALTERNATIVES
**8-603.1 Alternative minimum standards.**The alternative minimum standards for alter-
ations of qualified historical buildings or facilities are referenced in Section 202.5 of the_ 2010_
ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as incorporated and set forth in federal regulation 28
CFR Pt. 36.
**8-603.2 Entry.**These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level land-
ings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1.Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960
mm) from the primary entrance.
2.Access at any entrance not used by general public but open and unlocked with
directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than
200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3.The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem,
remote monitoring may be used.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |**8-603.3 Doors.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
3.Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear
opening.
4.Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 291/2 inches
(749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
**Exception:**Alternatives in this section do not apply to alteration of commercial facilities
and places of public accommodation (Title III entities).|Does not
apply|Does not
apply|Applies|

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APPENDIX A

CHBC § 8-603.2 High relevance — show source text

36.
**8-603.2 Entry.**These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level land-
ings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1.Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960
mm) from the primary entrance.
2.Access at any entrance not used by general public but open and unlocked with
directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than
200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3.The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem,
remote monitoring may be used.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |**8-603.3 Doors.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2.Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
3.Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 291/2 inches (749 mm) clear
opening.
4.Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 291/2 inches
(749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
**Exception:**Alternatives in this section do not apply to alteration of commercial facilities
and places of public accommodation (Title III entities).|Does not
apply|Does not
apply|Applies|

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APPENDIX A

TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY—continued	Col2	Col3	Col4
	Title II Public Entities	Title III Private Entities	Title III Barrier Removal
8-603.4 Power-assisted doors.Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces required by regular code. 8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular code, an accessible unisex toilet may be designated. 8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts.Alternatives listed in order of priority are: 1.A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope. 2.Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.	Applies	Applies	Applies
SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining features of the qualified historical building or property. 1.Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis. 2.Access provided by experiences, services, functions,

CHBC § 8-601.3 High relevance — show source text
8-601.3 Scope. The CHBC shall apply to every qualified historical building or property that is required to provide access to persons with disabilities.
1. Provisions of this chapter do not apply to new construction or reconstruction/replicas of historical buildings.
2. Where provisions of this chapter apply to alteration of qualified historical buildings or properties, alteration is defined in California Building Code (CBC), Chapter 2.
8-601.4 General application. The provisions in the CHBC apply to local, state and federal governments (Title II entities); alteration of commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities); and barrier removal in commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities). Except as noted in this chapter.

SECTION 8-602 — BASIC PROVISIONS

8-602.1 Regular code. The regular code for access for people with disabilities (Title 24, Part 2, Vol. 1, Chapter 11B) shall be applied to qualified historical buildings or properties unless strict compliance with the regular code will threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining features of the building or property.

8-602.2 Alternative provisions. If the historical significance or character-defining features are threatened, alternative provisions for access may be applied pursuant to this chapter, provided the following conditions are met:
1. These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or a case-by-case basis.
2. Documentation is provided, including meeting minutes or letters, stating the reasons for the application of the alternative provisions. Such documentation shall be retained in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.
SECTION 8-603 — ALTERNATIVES

8-603.1 Alternative minimum standards. The alternative minimum standards for alterations of qualified historical buildings or facilities are referenced in Section 202.5 of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, as incorporated and set forth in federal regulation 28 CFR Pt. 36.

8-603.2 Entry. These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level landings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1. Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from the primary entrance.
2. Access at any entrance not used by the general public but open and unlocked with directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3. The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem, remote monitoring may be used.
8-603.3 Doors. Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening
3. Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
4. Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
8-603.4 Power-assisted doors. Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces required by the regular code.

8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular code, an accessible unisex toilet facility may be designated.
CHBC § 8-603.2 High relevance — show source text
8-603.2 Entry. These alternatives do not allow exceptions for the requirement of level landings in front of doors, except as provided in Section 8-603.4.
1. Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from the primary entrance.
2. Access at any entrance not used by the general public but open and unlocked with directional signs at the primary entrance and as close as possible to, but no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from, the primary entrance.
3. The accessible entrance shall have a notification system. Where security is a problem, remote monitoring may be used.
8-603.3 Doors. Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
2. Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening
3. Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
4. Double doors operable with a power-assist device to provide a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening when both doors are in the open position.
8-603.4 Power-assisted doors. Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces required by the regular code.

8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular code, an accessible unisex toilet facility may be designated.

8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts. Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1. A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
2. Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
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ACCESSIBILITY

SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION

Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or characterdefining features of the historical building or property.
1. Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by- item or a case-by-case basis.
2. Access provided by experiences, services, functions, materials and resources through methods including, but not limited to, maps, plans, videos, virtual reality and related equipment, at accessible levels. The alternative design and/or technologies used will provide substantially equivalent or greater accessibility to, and usability of, the facility.
3. The official charged with the enforcement of the standards shall document the reasons for the application of the design and/or technologies and their effect on the historical significance or character-defining features. Such documentation shall be in accordance with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the permanent file of the enforcing agency.
CHBC § 404.3 High relevance — show source text
11B- 404.3 Automatic and power-assisted doors and gates. Automatic doors and automatic gates shall comply with Section 11B- 404.3. Full-powered automatic doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.10. Low-energy and power-assisted doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19.

11B- 404.3.1 Clear width. Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum in power-on and power-off mode. The minimum clear width for automatic door systems in a doorway shall provide a clear, unobstructed opening of 32 inches (813 mm) with one leaf positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position.

11B- 404.3.2 Maneuvering clearance. Clearances at power-assisted doors and gates shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.4. Clearances at automatic doors and gates without standby power and serving an accessible means of egress shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.4.

Exception: Where automatic doors and gates remain open in the power-off condition, compliance with Section 11B- 404.2.4 shall not be required.

11B- 404.3.3 Thresholds. Thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.5.

11B- 404.3.4 Doors in series and gates in series. Doors in series and gates in series shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.6.

11B- 404.3.5 Controls. Manually operated controls shall comply with Section 11B- 309. The clear floor space adjacent to the control shall be located beyond the arc of the door swing.

11B- 404.3.6 Break out opening. Where doors and gates without standby power are a part of a means of egress, the clear break out opening at swinging or sliding doors and gates shall be 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum when operated in emergency mode.

Exception: Where manual swinging doors and gates comply with Section 11B- 404.2 and serve the same means of egress compliance with Section 11B- 404.3.6 shall not be required.

11B- 404.3.7 Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles. Revolving doors, revolving gates and turnstiles shall not be part of an accessible route.

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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

SECTION 11B- 405 — RAMPS

11B- 405.1 General. Ramps on accessible routes shall comply with Section 11B- 405 .

Exception: In assembly areas, aisle ramps adjacent to seating and not serving elements required to be on an accessible route shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 405 .

11B- 405.2 Slope. Ramp runs shall have a running slope not steeper than 1:12.

Exception: Reserved.
CHBC § 404.2.10 Medium relevance — show source text
11B- 404.2.10 Door and gate surfaces. Swinging door and gate surfaces within 10 inches ( 254 mm) of the finish floor or ground measured vertically shall have a smooth surface on the push side extending the full width of the door or gate. Parts creating horizontal or vertical joints in these surfaces shall be within [1] / 16 inch (1.6 mm) of the same plane as the other and be free of sharp or abrasive edges. Cavities created by added kick plates shall be capped.

Exceptions:
1. Sliding doors shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 404.2.10.
2. Tempered glass doors without stiles and having a bottom rail or shoe with the top leading edge tapered at 60 degrees minimum from the horizontal shall not be required to meet the 10 inch ( 254 mm) bottom smooth surface height requirement.
3. Doors and gates that do not extend to within 10 inches ( 254 mm) of the finish floor or ground shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 404.2.10.
4. Reserved.
11B- 404.2.11 Vision lights. Doors, gates and side lights adjacent to doors or gates, containing one or more glazing panels that permit viewing through the panels shall have the bottom of at least one glazed panel located 43 inches ( 1092 mm) maximum above the finish floor.

Exception: Glazing panels with the lowest part more than 66 inches ( 1676 mm) from the finish floor or ground shall not be required to comply with Section 11B- 404.2.11.

11B- 404.3 Automatic and power-assisted doors and gates. Automatic doors and automatic gates shall comply with Section 11B- 404.3. Full-powered automatic doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.10. Low-energy and power-assisted doors shall comply with ANSI/BHMA A156.19.

11B- 404.3.1 Clear width. Doorways shall provide a clear opening of 32 inches ( 813 mm) minimum in power-on and power-off mode. The minimum clear width for automatic door systems in a doorway shall provide a clear, unobstructed opening of 32 inches (813 mm) with one leaf positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from its closed position.

11B- 404.3.2 Maneuvering clearance. Clearances at power-assisted doors and gates shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.4. Clearances at automatic doors and gates without standby power and serving an accessible means of egress shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.4.

Exception: Where automatic doors and gates remain open in the power-off condition, compliance with Section 11B- 404.2.4 shall not be required.

11B- 404.3.3 Thresholds. Thresholds and changes in level at doorways shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.5.

11B- 404.3.4 Doors in series and gates in series. Doors in series and gates in series shall comply with Section 11B- 404.2.6.
CHBC § 1010.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[BE] 1010.3.2 Power-operated doors. Where means of egress doors are operated or assisted by power, the design shall be such that in the event of power failure, the door is capable of being opened manually to permit means of egress travel or closed where necessary to safeguard means of egress. The forces required to open these doors manually shall not exceed those specified in Section 1010.1.3, except that the force to set the door in motion shall not exceed 50 pounds (220 N). The door shall be capable of opening from any position to the full width of the opening in which such door is installed when a force is applied to the door on the side from which egress is made. Power-operated swinging doors, power-operated sliding doors and power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.10. Power-assisted swinging doors and low energy power-operated swinging doors shall comply with BHMA A156.19. Low-energy power-operated sliding doors and low-energy power-operated folding doors shall comply with BHMA A156.38.

Exceptions:
1. Occupancies in Group I-3.
2. Special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors complying with Section 1010.3.3.
3. For a biparting door in the emergency breakout mode, a door leaf located within a multiple-leaf opening shall be exempt from the minimum 32-inch (813 mm) single-leaf requirement of Section 1010.1.1, provided that a minimum 32-inch (813 mm) clear opening is provided when the two biparting leaves meeting in the center are broken out.
[BE] 1010.3.3 Special-purpose horizontal sliding, accordion or folding doors. In other than Group H occupancies, specialpurpose horizontal sliding, accordion, or folding door assemblies permitted to be a component of a means of egress in accordance with Exception 6 to Section 1010.1.2 shall comply with all of the following criteria:
1. The doors shall be power operated and shall be capable of being operated manually in the event of power failure.
2. The doors shall be openable by a simple method without special knowledge or effort from the egress side or sides.
3. The force required to operate the door shall not exceed 30 pounds (133 N) to set the door in motion and 15 pounds (67 N) to close the door or open it to the minimum required width.
4. The door shall be openable with a force not to exceed 15 pounds (67 N) when a force of 250 pounds (1100 N) is applied perpendicular to the door adjacent to the operating device.
5. The door assembly shall comply with the applicable fire protection rating and, where rated, shall be self-closing or automatic closing by smoke detection in accordance with Section 716.2.6.6 of the California Building Code, shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80 and shall comply with Section 716 of the California Building Code .
6. The door assembly shall have an integrated standby power supply.
7. The door assembly power supply shall be electrically supervised.
8. The door shall open to the minimum required width within 10 seconds after activation of the operating device.
CHBC § 105.6 Medium relevance — show source text
INDEX

Unlimited Area Buildings 507 Unsafe Structures and Equipment (see Structures, Unsafe) 116 Appeals 113, Appendix B Revocation of permit 105.6 Stop work orders 115 Utilities disconnection 112.3

Unstable Materials 307.3, Table 414.2.5.1, Table 414.5.1, Table 415.6.5, 415.7.1, 415.9 Unusable Space 711.2.6 Use and Occupancy Chapter 3 Accessory 508.2 Classification 302.1

Detailed requirements based on occupancy and use Chapter 4 Incidental uses 509, Table 509.1 Mixed 508.3, 508.4 Use designation 302.2 Utilities 112

Service connection 112.1

Service disconnection 112.3

Temporary connection 112.2 Utility and Miscellaneous Occupancy (Group U) 312 Accessibility Chapters 11A and 11B Agricultural buildings Appendix C Area 503, 505, 506, 507, 508 Flood provisions Appendix G Height 503, 504, 508 Incidental uses 509

Live loads Table 1607.1 Means of egress Exit signs 1013.1 Stairway, exit access 1019 Mixed occupancies 508.3, 508.4 Special provisions Private garages and carports 406.3 Residential aircraft hangars 412.4 Sprinkler protection 903.2.11 Travel distance 1006.2.1, 1006.3,

1017.1 UV Germicidal Irradiation Systems

1211

Valuation or Value (see Fees, Permit) 109.3 Vapor Diffusion Port 202 Vapor Retarders 1202.3, 1404.3, 1404.3.2 Vegetative Artificial decorative 419, 419.1 Vegetative roofs 1505.10, 1507.15 Vehicle Barrier 1607.11 Vehicle Barrier Systems 406.4.2, 1607.11 Vehicle Show Rooms 304 Vehicular Fueling 406.7 Vehicular Gates 3110 Vehicular Repair 406.8

Veneer Cement plaster 1404.16, 1411 Fastening 1404.5 Fiber-cement siding 1404.17, 1411 Glazing 1404.13, 1411 Masonry, adhered 1404.11, 2101.2.1, 2103.2.4 Masonry, anchored 1404.7, 1411, 2101.2.1

Metal 1404.12

Plastic 1411, 2605 Slab-type 1404.9, 1411

Testing Automatic fire-extinguishing systems 904.4

Automatic water mist systems 904.11.3 Building official required 104.2.3.6 Carbon dioxide systems 904.8 Clean agent system 904.10 Dry chemical systems 904.6 Emergency and standby power 2702.4 Fire alarm systems 907.7, 907.8 Fire pumps 913.5 Fire-resistant materials 703.2
CHBC § 0.93 Medium relevance — show source text
In Group I-2 or an ambulatory care facility, doors serving as means of egress doors where used for the movement of beds and stretcher patients shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm). Where this section requires a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm) and a door opening includes two door leaves without a mullion, one leaf shall provide a minimum clear opening width of 44 inches (1118 mm). The minimum clear opening height of doors shall be not less than 80 inches (2032 mm).

Exceptions:
1. In Group R-2 and R-3 dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be an Accessible unit, Type A unit or Type B unit, the minimum width shall not apply to door openings that are not part of the required means of egress.
2. Group I-3 door openings to resident sleeping units that are not required to be an Accessible unit shall have a minimum clear opening width of 28 inches (711 mm).
3. Door openings to storage closets less than 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) in area shall not be limited by the minimum clear opening width.
4. Door openings within a dwelling unit or sleeping unit shall have a minimum clear opening height of 78 inches (1981 mm).
5. In dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible, Type A or Type B units, exterior door openings, other than the required exit door, shall have a minimum clear opening height of 76 inches (1930 mm).
6. In Groups R-2, R-3 and R-4, in dwelling and sleeping units that are not required to be Accessible, Type A or Type B units, the minimum clear opening widths shall not apply to interior egress doors.
7. Door openings required to be accessible within Type B units intended for user passage shall have a minimum clear opening width of 31.75 inches (806 mm).
8. Doors serving sauna compartments, toilet compartments or dressing, fitting or changing rooms compartments that are not required to be accessible shall have a minimum clear opening width of 20 inches (508 mm).
9. Doors serving shower compartments shall comply with Section 421.4.2 of the California Plumbing Code .
[BE] 1010.1.1.1 Projections into clear opening. There shall not be projections into the required clear opening width lower than 34 inches (864 mm) above the floor or ground. Projections into the clear opening width between 34 inches (864 mm) and 80 inches (2032 mm) above the floor or ground shall not exceed 4 inches (102 mm).

Exceptions: 1. Door closers, overhead doorstops, frame stops, power door operators, and electromagnetic door locks shall project into the door opening height not lower than 78 inches (1980 mm) above the floor. 2. In a Group I-2 occupancy, there shall be no projections into the clear width of doors used for the movement of beds and stretcher patients in the means of egress.

[BE] 1010.1.2 Egress door types. Egress doors shall be of the side-hinged swinging door, pivoted door or balanced door types.

Exceptions:
1. Private garages, office areas, factory and storage areas with an occupant load of 10 or less.
2. Group I-3 occupancies used as a place of detention.
3. Critical or intensive care patient rooms within suites of health care facilities.
4. Doors within or serving a single dwelling unit in Groups R-2 and R-3.
CHBC § 8-603.5 Medium relevance — show source text
**Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an
equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces
required by regular code.
8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular
code, an accessible unisex toilet may be designated.
**8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
1.A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal
distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower
levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
2.Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm).
Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION
Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping
requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in
Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining
features of the qualified historical building or property.
1.Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis.
2.Access provided by experiences, services, functions, materials and resources through
methods including, but not limited to, maps, plans, videos, virtual reality and related
equipment, at accessible levels. The alternative design and/or technologies used will
provide substantially equivalent or greater accessibility to, and usability of, the
facility.
3.The official charged with the enforcement of the standards shall document the reasons
for the application of the design and/or technologies and their effect on the historical
significance or character-defining features. Such documentation shall be in accordance
with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or
local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local
groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the
permanent file of the enforcing agency. Copies of the required documentation should
be available at the facility upon request.
** Note:**For commercial facilities and places of public accommodation
(Title III entities).
Equivalent facilitation for an element of a building or property when applied as a waiver
of an ADA accessibility requirement will not be entitled to the Federal Department of
Justice certification of this code as rebuttable evidence of compliance for that element.|Applies|Waivers
If a builder
applies for a
waiver of an ADA
accessibility
requirement for
an element of a
building, he or
she will not be
entitled to
certification’s
rebuttable
evidence of
compliance for
that element. This
limitation on the
certification
determination
should be noted
in any publication
of Chapter 8-6 if
certification is
granted.|Applies| |**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.
CHBC § 0.63 Medium relevance — show source text
For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c.
CHBC § 601.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
601.1.1 Compliance with other alternatives. Alterations, additions and changes of occupancy to existing structures shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 through 11 or with one of the alternatives provided in Section 301.3.

601.2 Work area. The work area, as defined in Chapter 2, shall be identified on the construction documents.

SECTION 602—ALTERATION—LEVEL 1

602.1 Scope. Level 1 alterations include the removal and replacement or the covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials, elements, equipment or fixtures that serve the same purpose.

602.2 Application. Level 1 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7.

SECTION 603—ALTERATION—LEVEL 2

603.1 Scope. Level 2 alterations include the addition or elimination of any door or window, the reconfiguration or extension of any system, or the installation of any additional equipment, and shall apply where the work area is equal to or less than 50 percent of the building area.

Exception: The movement or addition of nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height shall not be considered a Level 2 alteration.

603.2 Application. Level 2 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 7 for Level 1 alterations as well as the provisions of Chapter 8.

SECTION 604—ALTERATION—LEVEL 3

604.1 Scope. Level 3 alterations apply where the work area exceeds 50 percent of the building area.

604.2 Application. Level 3 alterations shall comply with the provisions of Chapters 7 and 8 for Level 1 and 2 alterations, respectively, as well as the provisions of Chapter 9.

SECTION 605—CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY

605.1 Scope. Change of occupancy provisions apply where the activity is classified as a change of occupancy as defined in Chapter 2.

605.2 Application. Changes of occupancy shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 10.

SECTION 606—ADDITIONS

606.1 Scope. Provisions for additions shall apply where work is classified as an addition as defined in Chapter 2.

606.2 Application. Additions to existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 11.

SECTION 607—HISTORIC BUILDINGS

607.1 Scope. The provisions of the California Historical Building Code (Part 8, Title 24, C.C.R) shall apply to qualified historical buildings or properties.

2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 6-3

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

6-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 7 – ALTERATIONS—LEVEL 1

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

Frequently asked questions

Can I use the CHBC door alternatives for any historic building project?

Yes — the CHBC alternatives apply to qualified historical buildings or properties where alteration would threaten character‑defining features, but alternatives must be applied item‑by‑item with documentation per § 8-602.2. Note the exception in § 8-603.3 for Title III (commercial/public accommodation) alterations .

If a double door pair is used with power‑assist, how wide must the opening be?

When both leaves are in the open position the combined clear opening must be at least 29 1/2 in (749 mm) to meet the CHBC alternative in § 8-603.3; power‑assist allowances are described in § 8-603.4 .

Does power‑assist waive the need for a level landing in front of the door?

Power‑assist may be considered an equivalent alternative to a level landing (and to strike‑side clearance and door‑opening forces) under § 8-603.4, but this is the limited, specific equivalency allowed by CHBC — documentation is still required and all alternatives must preserve historical significance .

Which is preferred: make one leaf 30" or add power‑assist?

The CHBC preference (priority order in § 8-603.3) favors a single‑leaf 30 in (762 mm) clear opening first. Power‑assist is a later alternative and best used when achieving the preferred dimensions would harm historical fabric. Always follow the priority and document the rationale § 8-603.3, § 8-603.4, and § 8-602.2 .

Do I need to follow the regular code (Chapter 11B) if I use a CHBC alternative?

The regular code applies unless strict compliance would threaten historical significance. When using CHBC alternatives, ensure they are applied per CHBC provisions and documented. Power‑assist can substitute for some Chapter 11B requirements (landings, strike clearance, opening force) under § 8-603.4, but other Chapter 11B provisions may still apply unless otherwise addressed by CHBC alternatives .

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Related in the CHBC

Toilet room alternatives and use of accessible unisex facilities

Accessible entrance requirements and distance/notification alternatives

Ramp and lift alternatives: permitted slopes and maximum horizontal distances

Element-specific alternatives (entrances, doors, ramps, toilets)

California Historical Building Code