CHBC · California Historical Building Code
What are the CHBC procedures for imminent threats or emergency demolition?
If a state agency owns or acts for a qualified historical building that an authority finds to be an immediate danger to life and safety, the CHBC requires the agency to consult and obtain review from the State Historical Building Safety Board before carrying out any demolition; the CHBC defines “imminent threat” as a condition placing life, health, property or safety in immediate peril and notes some hazards may be mitigated without demolition.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
Per the CHBC, when a state agency is involved with a qualified historical building or property it must consult and obtain review from the State Historical Building Safety Board (SHBSB) before taking actions that affect the property (see § 8-104.2.1). Where an emergency has been declared and a qualified historical building or property is declared an imminent threat, the state agency assessing that threat shall consult with the SHBSB before any demolition is undertaken (see § 8-104.2.2) .
If a state agency is going to demolish a qualified historical property because it is an immediate danger to life or safety, the agency must consult the SHBSB before demolition begins.
Requirements in detail
Controlling obligation
- Who: State agencies (or those acting on behalf of state agency owners).
- Duty: Consult and obtain SHBSB review prior to taking actions that affect qualified historical buildings or properties (see § 8-104.2.1) .
- Emergency trigger: When an emergency is declared and the qualified historical building/property is declared an imminent threat to life and safety, the state agency shall consult with the SHBSB before any demolition is undertaken (see § 8-104.2.2) .
Key defined term (first mention)
- Imminent threat — any condition affecting a qualified historical building or property which, in the opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, would make the building dangerous to the extent that the life, health, property or safety of the public, occupants or those performing necessary work are in immediate peril. The CHBC clarifies that hazards that can be mitigated by shoring, stabilization, barricades or temporary fences may not be treated as “imminent threats” solely for being hazards to the right-of-way .
Decision-relevant summary table
| Decision dimension / value | What it means | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Who must consult | State agencies owning or acting for qualified historical properties must request SHBSB review before actions affecting such properties | § 8-104.2.1 |
| When consultation is required | Before any demolition when an emergency is declared and the building/property is declared an imminent threat to life and safety | § 8-104.2.2 |
| Meaning of “imminent threat” | Condition placing life/health/property/safety in immediate peril; mitigatable hazards (shoring, barricades, temp fences) may not automatically qualify | Definitions (Imminent Threat) — (text retrieved) |
| Scope of SHBSB action | SHBSB provides review, advice and findings to the enforcing agency; state agencies must obtain SHBSB review per Health & Safety Code reference in the CHBC | § 8-104.2 and cross-reference to Health & Safety Code (per CHBC text) |
What "consult" means in practice (from CHBC language)
- The CHBC directs the state agency to consult with the SHBSB and obtain SHBSB review. The Board may consider facts, seek outside advice and transmit findings back to the enforcing agency; it may recover review costs and issue printed decisions (see § 8-104.2 generally) .
Exceptions & special cases
- The CHBC text explicitly ties the consultation requirement to state agencies (§ 8-104.2.1) and to emergencies where a qualified historical building is declared an imminent threat (§ 8-104.2.2) . The CHBC does not say that the SHBSB's review prevents demolition — it requires consultation/review before demolition is undertaken; the Board provides findings and advice.
- The CHBC definition notes that a hazard that can be mitigated by shoring, stabilization, barricades or temporary fences may not be classified as an imminent threat solely on that basis — so immediate demolition may not be justified if temporary measures remove the immediate peril .
- The CHBC text references the Health and Safety Code (Section 18961) as the statutory basis for SHBSB review; the CHBC itself defers to that statutory framework in its cross-reference (see § 8-104.2.1 and § 8-104.2.2) .
Important limitation: the CHBC sections retrieved set the consultation requirement but do not specify detailed timelines, submission formats, or how quickly the SHBSB must respond. The CHBC makes the review requirement mandatory but the retrieved text does not include procedural timelines — I cannot invent timing or procedural steps beyond what the code text states .
Note on emergency powers in other codes: separate emergency provisions in the California Existing Building Code and California Fire Code authorize code officials to take immediate measures (vacation, boarding, emergency repairs or demolition to abate imminent danger). Those provisions exist in other parts of the code framework and may interact with CHBC requirements; the CHBC specifically requires consultation with the SHBSB for state agencies before demolition of a qualified historical property declared an imminent threat — how to reconcile timing in a life-safety emergency versus SHBSB consultation is not spelled out in the CHBC excerpts retrieved here and may require coordination with legal counsel and local/state enforcing agencies (see Emergency Measures references in the Existing Building Code) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming the SHBSB review is optional or only advisory for state agencies. For state agencies the CHBC requires SHBSB review prior to actions affecting qualified historical buildings (§ 8-104.2.1) and requires consultation before demolition in imminent-threat emergencies (§ 8-104.2.2) .
- Confusing local agency and state agency obligations. The explicit consultation mandate in § 8-104.2.1 applies to state agencies — local agency procedures and appeals can be different (see related provisions) .
- Treating any public-safety hazard as an “imminent threat.” The CHBC definition requires immediate peril to life/health/property/safety; hazards mitigatable by shoring, stabilization or temporary fencing may not qualify as imminent threats .
- Failing to document the consultation. The CHBC contemplates written findings and advice; agencies should record the SHBSB review and its transmitted findings (the Board may recover costs and prints its decisions) .
Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule
Scenario: A state historic courthouse (a qualified historical building) suffers major structural damage in a strong earthquake. The state agency inspector concludes the building is an imminent threat to life and safety because of potential collapse.
Required steps (per CHBC text):
- The state agency must consult and obtain SHBSB review before taking action that affects the qualified historical building (see § 8-104.2.1) .
- Because the building has been declared an imminent threat to life and safety, the state agency shall consult with the SHBSB before any demolition is undertaken (see § 8-104.2.2) .
- The SHBSB will consider facts, may seek outside advice, and will transmit findings back to the enforcing agency; the agency should use those findings in deciding whether and how to proceed with demolition or alternatives (see § 8-104.2) .
What the CHBC text does not provide here: specific deadlines for the SHBSB to respond, formal submission format, or whether the agency may immediately demolish first to abate imminent peril and then seek after-the-fact review. Because those operational details are not in the retrieved CHBC language, the state agency should coordinate with the SHBSB and with legal counsel and consider any urgent life-safety emergency powers in the Existing Building Code or Fire Code (emergency repair/demolition authorities) when timing is critical .
Related provisions
- § 8-104.2 — SHBSB review process and general duties of the Board (context for §§ 8-104.2.1–2)
- § 8-104.3 — SHBC appeals (how to appeal decisions or seek Board resolution)
- § 8-102.1 — Application of the CHBC to state or local enforcing agencies (scope and applicability)
- Definitions chapter — Imminent Threat and other defined terms used by the CHBC (see Definitions)
- California Existing Building Code — emergency measures, unsafe structures and demolition authorities (useful for coordination when life-safety measures are urgent)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Historical Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CHBC § 116.2 High relevance — show source text
The code official shall cause to be posted at each entrance to such structure a notice reading as follows: “This Structure Is Unsafe and Its Occupancy Has Been Prohibited by the Code Official.” It shall be unlawful for any person to enter such structure except for the purpose of securing the structure, making the required repairs, removing the hazardous condition, or of demolishing the same.
[A] 116.2 Temporary safeguards. Notwithstanding other provisions of this code, whenever, in the opinion of the code official, there is imminent danger due to an unsafe condition, the code official shall order the necessary work to be done, including the boarding up of openings, to render such structure temporarily safe whether or not the legal procedure herein described has been instituted; and shall cause such other action to be taken as the code official deems necessary to meet such emergency.
[A] 116.3 Closing streets. Where necessary for public safety, the code official shall temporarily close structures and close or order the authority having jurisdiction to close sidewalks, streets, public ways and places adjacent to unsafe structures, and prohibit the same from being utilized.
[A] 116.4 Emergency repairs. For the purposes of this section, the code official shall employ the necessary labor and materials to perform the required work as expeditiously as possible.
[A] 116.5 Costs of emergency repairs. Costs incurred in the performance of emergency work shall be paid by the jurisdiction. The legal counsel of the jurisdiction shall institute appropriate action against the owner of the premises or the owner’s authorized agent where the unsafe structure is or was located for the recovery of such costs.
[A] 116.6 Hearing. Any person ordered to take emergency measures shall comply with such order forthwith. Any affected person shall thereafter, on petition directed to the appeals board, be afforded a hearing as described in this code.
SECTION 117—DEMOLITION
[A] 117.1 General. When the code official determines any structure is so old, dilapidated or has become so out of repair and is dangerous, unsafe, insanitary and otherwise unfit for human habitation or occupancy the code official can order either of the following:
- The code official is permitted to authorize the owner or owner’s authorized agent to make the structure safe by repairs in order to make the structure safe and sanitary. Where there has been a cessation of construction repairs of any structure for a period of more than 2 years, the structure will be ordered demolished and removed.
- The code official is permitted to order the owner or owner’s authorized agent to demolish and remove any such structure.
[A] 117.2 Notices and orders. Notices and orders shall comply with Section 113.
[A] 117.3 Failure to comply. If the owner or the owner’s authorized agent of a premises fails to comply with a demolition order within the time prescribed, the code official shall cause the structure to be demolished and removed, either through an available public agency or by contract or arrangement with private persons, and the cost of such demolition and removal shall be charged against the real estate on which the structure is located and shall be a lien on such real estate.
CHBC § 8-104.2 High relevance — show source text
8-104.2 SHBSB review. When a proposed design, material or method of construction is being considered by the enforcing agency, the agency chief, the building official or the local board of appeals may file a written request for opinion to the SHBSB for its consideration, advice or findings. In considering such request, the SHBSB may seek the advice of other appropriate private or public boards, individuals, or state or local agencies. The SHBSB shall, after considering all of the facts presented, including any recommendation of other appropriate boards, agencies or other parties, determine if, for the purpose intended, the proposal is reasonably equivalent to that allowed by these regulations in proposed design, material or method of construction, and it shall transmit such findings and its decision to the enforcing agency for its application. The Board may recover the costs of such reviews and shall report the decision in printed form, copied to the California Building Standards Commission.
8-104.2.1 State agencies. All state agencies with ownership of, or that act on behalf of state agency owners of, qualified historical buildings or properties, shall consult and obtain SHBSB review prior to taking action or making decisions or appeals that affect qualified historical buildings or properties, per Section 18961 of the Health and Safety Code.
8-104.2.2 Imminent threat. Where an emergency is declared and a qualified historical building or property is declared an imminent threat to life and safety, the state agency assessing such a threat shall consult with the SHBSB before any demolition is undertaken, per Section 18961 of the Health and Safety Code.
8-104.3 SHBC appeals. If any local agency administering and enforcing the CHBC or any person adversely affected by any regulation, rule, omission, interpretation, decision or practice of the agency enforcing the CHBC wishes to appeal the issue for resolution to the SHBSB, either of these parties may appeal directly to the Board. The Board may accept the appeal only if it determines that issues involved are of statewide significance. The Board may recover the costs of such reviews and shall make available copies of decisions in printed form at cost, copied to the California Building Standards Commission.
8-104.4 Local agency fees. Local agencies, when actively involved in the appeal, may also charge affected persons reasonable fees not to exceed the cost of obtaining reviews and appeals from the Board.
SECTION 8-105 — CONSTRUCTION METHODS AND MATERIALS
8-105.1 Repairs. Repairs to any portion of a qualified historical building or property may be made in-kind with historical materials and the use of original or existing historical methods of construction, subject to conditions of the CHBC. (See Chapter 8-8.)
8-105.2 Solutions to the California Historical Building Code . Solutions provided in the CHBC, or any other acceptable regulation or methodology of design or construction and used in whole or in part, with the regular code, or with any combination of the regular code and the CHBC, shall be allowed. The CHBC does not preclude the use of any proposed alternative or method of design or construction not specifically prescribed or otherwise allowed by these regulations. Any alternative may be submitted for evaluation to the appropriate enforcing agency for review and acceptance. The enforcing agency may request that sufficient evidence or proof be submitted to substantiate any claims that may be made regarding such solutions. Any alternative offered in lieu of that prescribed or allowed in the CHBC shall be reasonably equivalent in quality, strength, effectiveness, durability and safety to that of the CHBC.
CHBC § 115.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 115.4 Method of service. Such notice shall be deemed properly served where a copy thereof is served in accordance with one of the following methods:
- A copy is delivered to the owner or the owner’s authorized agent personally.
- A copy is sent by certified or registered mail addressed to the owner at the last known address with the return receipt requested.
- A copy is delivered in any other manner as prescribed by local law.
If the certified or registered letter is returned showing that the letter was not delivered, a copy thereof shall be posted in a conspicuous place in or about the structure affected by such notice. Service of such notice in the foregoing manner on the owner’s authorized agent shall constitute service of notice on the owner.
[A] 115.5 Restoration or abatement. The structure or equipment determined to be unsafe by the code official is permitted to be restored to a safe condition. The owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator or occupant of a structure, premises or equipment deemed unsafe by the code official shall abate or cause to be abated or corrected such unsafe conditions either by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or other approved corrective action. To the extent that repairs, alterations or additions are made, or a change of
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occupancy occurs during the restoration of the structure, such repairs, alterations, additions or change of occupancy shall comply with the requirements of this code.
SECTION 116—EMERGENCY MEASURES
[A] 116.1 Imminent danger. Where, in the opinion of the code official, there is imminent danger of failure or collapse of a building that endangers life, or where any building or part of a building has fallen and life is endangered by the occupation of the building, or where there is actual or potential danger to the building occupants or those in the proximity of any structure because of explosives, explosive fumes or vapors, or the presence of toxic fumes, gases, or materials, or operation of defective or dangerous equipment, the code official is hereby authorized and empowered to order and require the occupants to vacate the premises forthwith. The code official shall cause to be posted at each entrance to such structure a notice reading as follows: “This Structure Is Unsafe and Its Occupancy Has Been Prohibited by the Code Official.” It shall be unlawful for any person to enter such structure except for the purpose of securing the structure, making the required repairs, removing the hazardous condition, or of demolishing the same.
[A] 116.2 Temporary safeguards. Notwithstanding other provisions of this code, whenever, in the opinion of the code official, there is imminent danger due to an unsafe condition, the code official shall order the necessary work to be done, including the boarding up of openings, to render such structure temporarily safe whether or not the legal procedure herein described has been instituted; and shall cause such other action to be taken as the code official deems necessary to meet such emergency.
[A] 116.3 Closing streets. Where necessary for public safety, the code official shall temporarily close structures and close or order the authority having jurisdiction to close sidewalks, streets, public ways and places adjacent to unsafe structures, and prohibit the same from being utilized.
[A] 116.4 Emergency repairs. For the purposes of this section, the code official shall employ the necessary labor and materials to perform the required work as expeditiously as possible.
CHBC § 8-102.1.6 High relevance — show source text
8-102.1.6 Additional work. Qualified historical buildings or properties shall not be subject to additional work required by the regular code, regulation or ordinance beyond that required to complete the work undertaken. Certain exceptions for accessibility and for distinct hazards exist by mandate and may require specific action, within the parameters of the CHBC.
SECTION 8-103 — ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
8-103.1 Authority. The state or local enforcing agency, pursuant to authority provided under Section 18954 of the Health and Safety Code, shall administer and enforce the provisions of the CHBC in permitting repairs, alterations and additions necessary for the preservation, restoration, reconstruction, rehabilitation, relocation or continued use of a qualified historical building or property.
8-103.2 State enforcement. All state agencies pursuant to authority provided under Section 18954 and Section 18961 of the Health and Safety Code shall administer and enforce the CHBC with respect to qualified historical buildings or properties under their respective jurisdiction.
8-103.3 Liability. Prevailing law regarding immunity of building officials is unaffected by the use and enforcement of the CHBC.
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SECTION 8-104 — REVIEW AND APPEALS
8-104.1 State Historical Building Safety Board (SHBSB or Board). In order to provide for interpretation of the provisions of the CHBC and to hear appeals, the SHBSB shall act as an appeal and review body to state and local agencies or any affected party.
8-104.2 SHBSB review. When a proposed design, material or method of construction is being considered by the enforcing agency, the agency chief, the building official or the local board of appeals may file a written request for opinion to the SHBSB for its consideration, advice or findings. In considering such request, the SHBSB may seek the advice of other appropriate private or public boards, individuals, or state or local agencies. The SHBSB shall, after considering all of the facts presented, including any recommendation of other appropriate boards, agencies or other parties, determine if, for the purpose intended, the proposal is reasonably equivalent to that allowed by these regulations in proposed design, material or method of construction, and it shall transmit such findings and its decision to the enforcing agency for its application. The Board may recover the costs of such reviews and shall report the decision in printed form, copied to the California Building Standards Commission.
8-104.2.1 State agencies. All state agencies with ownership of, or that act on behalf of state agency owners of, qualified historical buildings or properties, shall consult and obtain SHBSB review prior to taking action or making decisions or appeals that affect qualified historical buildings or properties, per Section 18961 of the Health and Safety Code.
8-104.2.2 Imminent threat. Where an emergency is declared and a qualified historical building or property is declared an imminent threat to life and safety, the state agency assessing such a threat shall consult with the SHBSB before any demolition is undertaken, per Section 18961 of the Health and Safety Code.
CHBC § 114.3 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
SECTION 115—UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT
[A] 115.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress facilities, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or that involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe as the code official deems necessary and as provided for in this code. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
[A] 115.2 Record. The code official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.
[A] 115.3 Notice. If an unsafe condition is found, the code official shall serve on the owner of the structure or the owner’s authorized agent a written notice that describes the condition deemed unsafe and specifies the required repairs or improvements to be made to abate the unsafe condition, or that requires the unsafe building to be demolished within a stipulated time. Such notice shall require the person thus notified to declare immediately to the code official acceptance or rejection of the terms of the order.
[A] 115.4 Method of service. Such notice shall be deemed properly served where a copy thereof is served in accordance with one of the following methods:
- A copy is delivered to the owner or the owner’s authorized agent personally.
- A copy is sent by certified or registered mail addressed to the owner at the last known address with the return receipt requested.
- A copy is delivered in any other manner as prescribed by local law.
If the certified or registered letter is returned showing that the letter was not delivered, a copy thereof shall be posted in a conspicuous place in or about the structure affected by such notice. Service of such notice in the foregoing manner on the owner’s authorized agent shall constitute service of notice on the owner.
[A] 115.5 Restoration or abatement. The structure or equipment determined to be unsafe by the code official is permitted to be restored to a safe condition. The owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator or occupant of a structure, premises or equipment deemed unsafe by the code official shall abate or cause to be abated or corrected such unsafe conditions either by repair, rehabilitation, demolition or other approved corrective action. To the extent that repairs, alterations or additions are made, or a change of
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occupancy occurs during the restoration of the structure, such repairs, alterations, additions or change of occupancy shall comply with the requirements of this code.
SECTION 116—EMERGENCY MEASURES
**[A] 116.1 Imminent danger.
CHBC § 8-104.3 Medium relevance — show source text
ENFORCING AGENCY, Authority Having Jurisdiction, Local Agency with Jurisdiction. An entity with the responsibility for regulating, enforcing, reviewing or otherwise that exerts control of or administration over the process of granting permits, approvals, decisions, variances, appeals for qualified historical buildings or properties.
EXIT LADDER DEVICE. An exit ladder device is a permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged ladder intended for use as a means of emergency egress from areas of the second or third stories. Unless approved specifically for a longer length, the ladder shall be limited to 25 feet (7620 mm) in length. Exit ladders are permitted where the area served by the ladder has an occupant load less than 10 persons.
FIRE HAZARD. Any condition which increases or may contribute to an increase in the hazard or menace of fire to a greater degree than customarily recognized by the authority having jurisdiction, or any condition or act which could obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with the operations of firefighting personnel or the egress of occupants in the event of fire. Section 8-104.3, SHBC appeals, remains applicable.
HISTORICAL FABRIC OR MATERIALS. Original and later-added historically significant construction materials, architectural finishes or elements in a particular pattern or configuration which form a qualified historical property, as determined by the authority having jurisdiction.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE. Importance for which a property has been evaluated and found to be historical, as determined by the authority having jurisdiction.
IMMINENT THREAT. Any condition within or affecting a qualified historical building or property which, in the opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, would qualify a building or property as dangerous to the extent that the life, health, property or safety of the public, its occupants or those performing necessary repair, stabilization or shoring work are in immediate peril due to conditions affecting the building or property. Potential hazards to persons using, or improvements within, the right-of-way may not be construed to be “imminent threats” solely for that reason if the hazard can be mitigated by shoring, stabilization, barricades or temporary fences.
INTEGRITY. Authenticity of a building or property’s historical identity, evidenced by the survival of physical characteristics that existed during the property’s historical or prehistorical period of significance.
LIFE SAFETY EVALUATION. An evaluation of the life safety hazards of a qualified historical building or property based on procedures similar to those contained in NFPA 909, Standard for the Protection of Cultural Resources, Appendix B, Fire Risk Assessment in Heritage Premises.
LIFE SAFETY HAZARD. See Distinct Hazard.
PERIOD OF SIGNIFICANCE. The period of time when a qualified historical building or property was associated with important events, activities or persons, or attained the characteristics for its listing or registration.
PRESERVATION. The act or process of applying measures necessary to sustain the existing form, integrity and materials of a qualified historical building or property. Work, including preliminary measures to protect and stabilize the property, generally focuses upon the ongoing maintenance and repair of historic materials and features rather than extensive replacement and new construction. New exterior additions are not within the scope of this treatment; however, the limited and sensitive upgrading of mechanical,
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electrical and plumbing systems and other code-related work to make properties functional is appropriate within a preservation project.
CHBC § 1-31 Medium relevance — show source text
114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
115 Unsafe Structures and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
116 Emergency Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32
117 Demolition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
202 General Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
CHAPTER 3 PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE
METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3
301 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
302 General Provisions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
303 Storm Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
304 Structural Design Loads and Evaluation and Design Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
305 In-Situ Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
306 Accessibility for Existing Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
307 Smoke Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
308 Carbon Monoxide Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
309 Additions and Replacements of Exterior Wall Coverings and Exterior Wall Envelopes . . . . . . . . . 3-7
310 [OSHPD 1R, 2 and 5] Services/Systems and Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
311 [OSHPD 1R, 2 and 5] Means of Egress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
California Historical Building 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.CHBC § 404.2.3 Medium relevance — show source text
404.2.3 Lockdown plans. Lockdown plans shall only be permitted where such plans are approved by the fire code official and are in compliance with Sections 404.2.3.1 and 404.2.3.2.
404.2.3.1 Lockdown plan contents. Lockdown plans shall include the following:
Identification of individuals authorized to issue a lockdown order.
Security measures used during normal operations, when the building is occupied, that could adversely affect egress or fire department operations.
A description of identified emergency and security threats addressed by the plan, including specific lockdown procedures to be implemented for each threat condition.
Means and methods of initiating a lockdown plan for each threat, including: 4.1. The means of notifying occupants of a lockdown event, which shall be distinct from the fire alarm signal. 4.2. Identification of each door or other access point that will be secured. 4.3. A description of the means or methods used to secure doors and other access points. 4.4. A description of how locking means and methods are in compliance with the requirements of this code for egress and accessibility.
Procedures for reporting to the fire department any lockdown condition affecting egress or fire department operations.
Procedures for determining and reporting the presence or absence of occupants to emergency response agencies during a lockdown.
Means for providing two-way communication between a central location and each area subject to being secured during a lockdown.
Identification of the prearranged signal for terminating the lockdown.
Identification of individuals authorized to issue a lockdown termination order.
Procedures for unlocking doors and verifying that the means of egress has been returned to normal operations upon termination of the lockdown.
2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 4-11
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
EMERGENCY PLANNING AND PREPAREDNESS
- Training procedures and frequency of lockdown plan drills.
404.2.3.2 Drills. Lockdown plan drills shall be conducted in accordance with the approved plan. Such drills shall not be substituted for fire and evacuation drills required by Section 405.3.
404.3 Maintenance. Fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plans shall be reviewed or updated annually or as necessitated by changes in staff assignments, occupancy or the physical arrangement of the building.
404.4 Availability. Fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plans shall be available in the workplace for reference and review by employees, and copies shall be furnished to the fire code official for review on request.
404.4.1 Distribution. The fire safety, evacuation and lockdown plans shall be distributed to the tenants and building service employees by the owner or owner’s agent. Tenants shall distribute to their employees applicable parts of the fire safety plan and lockdown plan affecting the employees’ actions in the event of a fire or other emergency.
404.5 College and university pre-fire planning. The Chancellor, President, or his designated representative, shall, in cooperation with the enforcing agency, propose procedures to be followed in case of fire or other emergency in accordance with the provisions of Section 403.9.2.1.1.
404.6 Office buildings. All office buildings two or more stories in height, except high-rise buildings as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 13210, shall comply with this section.
CHBC § 114.3 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the fire code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
SECTION 115—UNSAFE STRUCTURES OR EQUIPMENT
[A] 115.1 General. If during the inspection of a premises, a structure, or any building system, in whole or in part, constitutes a clear and inimical threat to human life, safety or health, the fire code official shall issue such notice or orders to remove or remedy the conditions as shall be deemed necessary in accordance with this section, and shall refer the building to the building official for any repairs, alterations, remodeling, removing or demolition required.
[A] 115.1.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the fire code official deems necessary and as provided for in this section. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
[A] 115.1.2 Structural hazards. Where an apparent structural hazard is caused by the faulty installation, operation or malfunction of any of the items or devices governed by this code, the fire code official shall immediately notify the building code official in accordance with Section 115.1.
[A] 115.2 Evacuation. The fire code official or the fire department official in charge of an incident shall be authorized to order the immediate evacuation of any occupied structure deemed unsafe where such structure has hazardous conditions that pose an imminent danger to structure occupants. Persons so notified shall immediately leave the structure or premises and shall not enter or reenter until authorized to do so by the fire code official or the fire department official in charge of the incident.
[A] 115.3 Record. The fire code official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.
[A] 115.4 Notice. If an unsafe condition is found, the fire code official shall serve on the owner of the structure or the owner’s authorized agent a written notice that describes the condition deemed unsafe and specifies the required repairs or improvements to be made to abate the unsafe condition, or requires the unsafe structure to be demolished within a stipulated time. Such notice shall require the person thus notified to declare immediately to the fire code official acceptance or rejection of the terms of the order.
[A] 115.5 Method of service. Such notice shall be deemed properly served where a copy thereof is served in accordance with one of the following methods:
- A copy is delivered to the owner personally.
- A copy is sent by certified or registered mail addressed to the owner at the last known address with return receipt requested.
- A copy is delivered in any other manner as prescribed by local law.
California Historical Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
; 2′6″ C.R.S. with 1″ cover on
both top and bottom flanges; 12′ span
simply supported.|115 psf|29 min|||7|1, 5,
13|1/4| |F/C-6-RC-31|6″|6″ deep (3450 psi) concrete deck; 4″ ×
13/4″ × 5 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S. with 1″ cover
on both top and bottom flanges; 12′ span
simply supported.|25 psf|3 hrs
35 min|||7|1, 2|31/2| |F/C-6-RC-32|6″|6″ deep (4460 psi) concrete deck; 4″ ×
13/4″ × 5 lbs R.S.J.; 2′ C.R.S. with 1″ cover
on both top and bottom flanges; 12′ span
simply supported.|60 psf|4 hrs
30 min|||7|1, 10|41/2| |F/C-6-RC-33|6″|6″ deep (4360 psi) concrete deck; 4″ × 13/4″
× 5 lbs R.S.J.; 2′ C.R.S. with 1″ cover on
both top and bottom flanges; 13′1″ span
restrained.|60 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-6-RC-34|61/4″|61/4″ thick; 43/4″ (5120 psi) concrete core;
1″ T&G board flooring;1/2″ plaster under-
coat; 4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush
with top surface concrete; 12′ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|100 psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-6-RC-35|61/4″|43/4″ (3600 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat; 4″ ×
3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush with top
surface concrete; 12′ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|100 psf|2 hrs
30 min|||7|1, 5|21/2| |F/C-6-RC-36|61/4″|43/4″ (2800 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat; 4″ ×
3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S.CHBC § 4.6. Medium relevance — show source text
4.6. Manual fire alarm boxes.
4.7. Portable fire extinguishers. 4.8. Occupant-use hose stations.
4.9. Fire alarm annunciators and controls.
A list of major fire hazards associated with the normal use and occupancy of the premises, including maintenance and housekeeping procedures.
Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance of systems and equipment installed to prevent or control fires.
Identification and assignment of personnel responsible for maintenance, housekeeping and controlling fuel hazard
sources.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.13(a)(2)] Fire Drills. (Group E Occupancies)
(a) Group E Occupancies.
(2) Emergency Pre-Fire Planning. Each school principal, district superintendent or day nursery manager shall, in cooperation with the enforcing agency, prepare procedures to be followed in case of fire or other emergency. They should include the following:
(A) Posting of the telephone number of the fire department in the office and/or at the main switchboard.
(B) Assignment of a responsible person to call the fire department upon notification of any fire or activation of the alarm system for any reason other than fire drills.
(C) Posting in a conspicuous place in each classroom or assembly area a plan showing paths of travel to evacuate the room in case of emergency and including an alternate route.
(D) Posting in each classroom instructions to be followed by the teacher. These should include: 1. Maintaining of order during evacuation. 2. Removal of roll call book and calling of roll when designated evacuation area is reached.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §3.13(b)] Fire Drills. (College and University)
(b) College and University Pre-Fire Planning. The Chancellor, President, or his designated representative, shall, in cooperation with the enforcing agency, propose procedures to be followed in case of fire or other emergency in accordance with the provi- sions of California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Section 3.13 (a)(2).
404.2.3 Lockdown plans. Lockdown plans shall only be permitted where such plans are approved by the fire code official and are in compliance with Sections 404.2.3.1 and 404.2.3.2.
404.2.3.1 Lockdown plan contents. Lockdown plans shall include the following:
Identification of individuals authorized to issue a lockdown order.
Security measures used during normal operations, when the building is occupied, that could adversely affect egress or fire department operations.
A description of identified emergency and security threats addressed by the plan, including specific lockdown procedures to be implemented for each threat condition.
Means and methods of initiating a lockdown plan for each threat, including: 4.1. The means of notifying occupants of a lockdown event, which shall be distinct from the fire alarm signal. 4.2. Identification of each door or other access point that will be secured. 4.3. A description of the means or methods used to secure doors and other access points. 4.4. A description of how locking means and methods are in compliance with the requirements of this code for egress and accessibility.
Procedures for reporting to the fire department any lockdown condition affecting egress or fire department operations.
Procedures for determining and reporting the presence or absence of occupants to emergency response agencies during a lockdown.
Means for providing two-way communication between a central location and each area subject to being secured during a lockdown.
Frequently asked questions
Who exactly must consult the SHBSB before demolishing a historical building in an emergency?
State agencies (or entities acting on behalf of state agency owners) must obtain SHBSB review; the CHBC language for this requirement is in § 8-104.2.1 and the imminent-threat demolition-consult requirement is in § 8-104.2.2 .
Does SHBSB consultation prohibit demolition if life safety is at risk?
The CHBC requires consultation before demolition in imminent-threat emergencies but the retrieved text does not state that the Board’s review automatically prohibits demolition. The precise operational effect (timing, emergency demolition authority) is not detailed in the retrieved CHBC excerpts and may require coordination with other emergency code authorities and counsel .
What is an “imminent threat” under the CHBC?
An imminent threat is a condition that, in the authority having jurisdiction’s opinion, places life, health, property, or safety in immediate peril. The definition also notes that hazards mitigatable by shoring, stabilization, barricades or temporary fences may not be treated as imminent threats solely for being hazards to the right-of-way .
If a local agency declares an imminent threat, does § 8-104.2.2 apply?
Section 8-104.2.2 specifically speaks to the obligation of the state agency assessing such a threat to consult with the SHBSB before demolition. Local agency procedures and obligations may differ; consult the CHBC application sections and local enforcement policies for how local agencies coordinate with SHBSB review .
If immediate demolition is necessary to prevent loss of life, what should an agency do?
The CHBC requires consultation for state agencies prior to demolition in imminent-threat situations, but the code excerpts retrieved here do not provide specific timing allowances for life-safety emergencies. In urgent situations, agencies should coordinate with the SHBSB as quickly as possible while also using emergency authorities available under other applicable codes (e.g., Existing Building Code / Fire Code emergency measures) and document decisions and consultations .
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