CHBC · California Historical Building Code
What is a "character‑defining feature" and why it matters?
A "character‑defining feature" is any visual or physical element — shape, materials, decorative details, interior spaces, or site relationships — that gives a historic building its significance. Under the CHBC, the regular code applies unless following it would “threaten or destroy” those features; in that case, the CHBC permits documented, case‑by‑case alternatives (see **§ 8-201** and **§ 8-602**) and specific alternative provisions for doors, ramps and access (**§ 8-603**, **§ 8-604**). filefile
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
A character‑defining feature is the set of visual and physical elements that give a historical building or property its historic, architectural, or cultural identity — for example its overall shape, materials, craftsmanship, decorative details, interior spaces, and site relationships. This definition appears in § 8-201 of the CHBC and is the baseline test used throughout the CHBC whenever preservation value must be weighed against building‑code requirements.
The single most important rule: if strict compliance with the regular code would "threaten or destroy" the building’s historical significance or its character‑defining features, the CHBC allows alternative solutions. § 8-602.1 tells you when that test is applied.
Requirements in detail
The CHBC treats character‑defining features as the protected attributes that may justify use of alternate code solutions (or exceptions) when complying with the regular code would adversely affect historic character. Key places the CHBC applies that test include:
- The accessibility chapter: the regular access code applies unless strict compliance would “threaten or destroy” character‑defining features, and documented alternatives are allowed on an item‑by‑item basis (see § 8-602.1 and § 8-602.2).
- The alternatives chapter: specific, prioritized alternative technical solutions (doors, ramps, lifts, entrances) are provided where character‑defining features would otherwise be harmed (see § 8-603).
- The equivalent facilitation clause: other technologies or design approaches may be used if the alternatives in § 8-603 would still threaten character‑defining features; the enforcing official must document the reasons (see § 8-604).
Decision‑relevant dimensions (at a glance)
| Dimension / value | What matters for the decision | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| What counts (attributes) | Visual aspects and physical elements: shape, materials, craftsmanship, decorative details, interior spaces and features, site and environment — these are the things protected. | § 8-201 |
| When to apply | Use the CHBC when regular code compliance would threaten or destroy those features; evaluate item‑by‑item / case‑by‑case. | § 8-602.1, § 8-602.2 |
| Accessibility alternatives | Door clearances, ramps, lifts, entrance locations: alternatives are listed in priority order and include specific dimensional relaxations where needed. | § 8-603 |
| Equivalent facilitation | If listed alternatives still threaten character, other technologies/approaches may be used, with required documentation of effect on features. | § 8-604 |
| Documentation | Enforcement file must include the reasons and supporting documentation (meeting minutes, letters) for applying alternatives. | § 8-602.2 |
| Non‑code scopes influenced | Energy measures, mechanical changes, or site work may be limited where they threaten character‑defining features. | § 8-901.5, § 8-902.1.2 file |
How the CHBC uses the concept (practical rules)
- The presence of character‑defining features is a factual determination about what visually and materially conveys historic significance — not an abstract label. See § 8-201 for the defining list of attributes.
- Where the regular code would impair those attributes, the CHBC directs the enforcing agency to accept reasonable equivalent alternatives in whole or in part. This is an explicit standard in § 8-602.1 and the alternatives framework in § 8-603. file
- Any alternative or equivalent facilitation must be justified and recorded in the permanent enforcement file per § 8-602.2 and § 8-604. file
Exceptions & special cases
- Accessibility exceptions are not blanket: alternatives may be used only when strict compliance would threaten character‑defining features, and they are applied item‑by‑item or case‑by‑case (see § 8-602.2). Documentation is required.
- Some alternative items have their own limits (for example, entrance access and ramp/lift priorities and dimensional limits are specifically listed in § 8-603). If those alternatives still threaten character, § 8-604 allows other facilitation measures, but again requires documentation. file
- Energy code compliance: historical buildings are exempt from energy conservation standards “except where the historical significance or character‑defining features are threatened,” so energy upgrades that would harm character may be limited. See § 8-901.5.
Common mistakes
- Treating "character‑defining feature" as only exterior ornamentation. The CHBC explicitly includes interior spaces and site relationships in the definition — don’t ignore interiors or landscape. § 8-201.
- Making unilateral code concessions without required documentation. The CHBC requires documentation and item‑by‑item justification before applying alternatives (§ 8-602.2, § 8-604). file
- Assuming alternatives are automatic. Alternatives are conditional: the regular code still applies unless it would “threaten or destroy” character‑defining features (§ 8-602.1). Assess first, then apply alternatives.
- Forgetting to consult or notify. For state‑owned properties or high‑impact changes, SHBSB review or consultation may be required (see § 8-104.2).
Worked example — upgrading an entrance for accessibility (concrete numbers)
Scenario: A small historic storefront (qualified as historic) has a raised stone step at the primary entrance. The owner needs an accessible route.
First test: Would installing a standard 1:12 ramp and replacing the historic stone step with new concrete “threaten or destroy” the building’s character‑defining feature (the original carved stone threshold and surrounding decorative masonry)? If yes, CHBC alternatives apply per § 8-602.1.
Look to the alternatives in § 8-603: prioritized options include relocating access to another entrance within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of the primary entrance, providing a single‑leaf door with a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) clear opening, or installing a lift or ramp with greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10 for horizontal distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm) (signage required). If a 1:12 ramp would irreversibly alter the stonework, a short 1:10 ramp or an interior lift might be considered per the alternative priorities.
Documentation: The enforcing official must retain documentation showing why the regular solution would damage the threshold, why the chosen alternative is the least‑damaging feasible solution, and how the alternative provides substantially equivalent accessibility (per § 8-602.2 and § 8-604). Without that file, the alternative is not properly supported. file
Quantified summary for the example:
- Maximum distance to alternate entrance: 200 ft (60,960 mm). § 8-603.2.
- Door clear opening alternative: 30 in (762 mm) minimum (priority 1). § 8-603.3.
- Short ramp alternative slope allowed: no greater than 1:10 for horizontal distances up to 5 ft (1525 mm) (signage required). § 8-603.6.
Related provisions
- § 8-201 (definitions — character‑defining feature)
- § 8-602.1 (regular code applies unless it would threaten/destroy character‑defining features)
- § 8-602.2 (alternative provisions — item‑by‑item and required documentation)
- § 8-603 (alternatives for entrances, doors, ramps, lifts — specific dimensional options)
- § 8-604 (equivalent facilitation — use of other designs/technologies and required documentation)
- § 8-901.5 (energy conservation exemptions where character‑defining features would be threatened)
- § 8-902.1.2 (existing systems that are not safety hazards may remain in use)
- § 8-104.2 (SHBSB review and appeals when statewide interpretation or decisions affecting historical properties are needed)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Historical Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CHBC § 8-2 High relevance — show source text
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8-2 DEFINITIONS
SECTION 8-201 — DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of the CHBC, certain terms and phrases, words and their derivatives shall be construed as specified in this chapter. Additional definitions and/or terms may appear in the various other chapters relative to terms or phrases primarily applicable thereto. Any reference to “authority having jurisdiction” does not necessarily preclude the appellate process of Section 8-104.3.
ADDITION. A nonhistorical extension or increase in floor area or height of a building or property.
ALTERATION. A modification to a qualified historical building or property that affects the usability of the building or property, or part thereof. Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, reconstruction, historical restoration, changes or rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrangements in the plan configuration of walls and full-height partitions.
BUILDING STANDARD. Any guideline, regulation or code that may be applied to a qualified historical building or property.
CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURE. Those visual aspects and physical elements that comprise the appearance of a historical building or property, and that are significant to its historical, architectural and cultural values, including the overall shape of the historical building or property, its materials, craftsmanship, decorative details, interior spaces and features, as well as the various aspects of its site and environment.
CULTURAL RESOURCE. Building, site, property, object or district evaluated as having significance in prehistory or history.
DISTINCT HAZARD. Any clear and evident condition that exists as an immediate danger to the safety of the occupants or public right of way. Conditions that do not meet the requirements of current regular codes and ordinances do not, of themselves, constitute a distinct hazard. Section 8-104.3, SHBC appeals, remains applicable.
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.
CHBC § 8-104.4 Medium relevance — show source text
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.
SECTION 8-106 — SHBSB RULINGS
8-106.1 General. Rulings of the SHBSB (i.e., formal appeals, case decisions, code interpretations and administrative resolutions, etc.) that are issues of statewide application are required to be submitted to the California Building Standards Commission in printed form. These rulings may be used to provide guidance for similar cases or issues.
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8-2 DEFINITIONS
SECTION 8-201 — DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of the CHBC, certain terms and phrases, words and their derivatives shall be construed as specified in this chapter. Additional definitions and/or terms may appear in the various other chapters relative to terms or phrases primarily applicable thereto. Any reference to “authority having jurisdiction” does not necessarily preclude the appellate process of Section 8-104.3.
ADDITION. A nonhistorical extension or increase in floor area or height of a building or property.
ALTERATION. A modification to a qualified historical building or property that affects the usability of the building or property, or part thereof. Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, reconstruction, historical restoration, changes or rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrangements in the plan configuration of walls and full-height partitions.
BUILDING STANDARD. Any guideline, regulation or code that may be applied to a qualified historical building or property.
CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURE. Those visual aspects and physical elements that comprise the appearance of a historical building or property, and that are significant to its historical, architectural and cultural values, including the overall shape of the historical building or property, its materials, craftsmanship, decorative details, interior spaces and features, as well as the various aspects of its site and environment.
CULTURAL RESOURCE. Building, site, property, object or district evaluated as having significance in prehistory or history.
CHBC § 8-604 Medium relevance — show source text
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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.
- Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by- item or a case-by-case basis.
- 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.
- 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.
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8-7 STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS
SECTION 8-701 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE
8-701.1 Purpose. The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to the regular code for the structural safety of buildings designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC requires enforcing agencies to accept any reasonably equivalent alternatives to the regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.
8-701.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to encourage the preservation of qualified historical buildings or structures while providing standards for a minimum level of building performance with the objective of preventing partial or total structural collapse such that the overall risk of life-threatening injury as a result of structural collapse is low.
8-701.3 Application. The alternative structural regulations provided by Section 8-705 are to be applied in conjunction with the regular code whenever a structural upgrade or reconstruction is undertaken for qualified historical buildings or properties.
SECTION 8-702 — GENERAL
8-702.1 The CHBC shall not be construed to allow the enforcing agency to approve or permit a lower level of safety of structural design and construction than that which is reasonably equivalent to the regular code provisions in occupancies which are critical to the safety and welfare of the public at large, including, but not limited to, public and private schools, hospitals, municipal police and fire stations and essential services facilities.
8-702.2 Nothing in these regulations shall prevent voluntary and partial seismic upgrades when it is demonstrated that such upgrades will improve life safety and when a full upgrade would not otherwise be required.
CHBC § 8-6 Medium relevance — show source text
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APPENDIX A Col2 Col3 Col4 CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY Title II
Public EntitiesTitle III
Private EntitiesTitle III
Barrier RemovalSECTION 8-601 PURPOSE, INTENT, SCOPE
**8-601.1 Purpose.**The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to facilitate
access and use by persons with disabilities to and throughout facilities designated as quali-
fied historical buildings or properties. These regulations require enforcing agencies to
accept alternatives to regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or
properties.
**8-601.2 Intent.**The intent of this chapter is to preserve the integrity of qualified historical
buildings and properties while providing access to and use by persons with disabilities.
**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.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.CHBC § 8-603.2 Medium 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.
- Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from the primary entrance.
- 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.
- 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:
- Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
- Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening
- Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
- 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:
- 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.
- 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.
- Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by- item or a case-by-case basis.
- 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.
- 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 § 8-602 Medium 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
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APPENDIX A
CHBC § 8-503 Medium relevance — show source text
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MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 8-503 — ESCAPE OR RESCUE WINDOWS AND DOORS
Basements in dwelling units and every sleeping room below the fourth floor shall have at least one openable window or door approved for emergency escape which shall open directly into a public street, public way, yard or exit court. Escape or rescue windows or doors shall have a minimum clear area of 3.3 square feet (0.31 m [2] ) and a minimum width or height dimension of 18 inches (457 mm) and be operable from the inside to provide a full, clear opening without the use of special tools.
SECTION 8-504 — RAILINGS AND GUARDRAILS
The height of railings and guard railings and the spacing of balusters may continue in their historical height and spacing unless a distinct hazard has been identified or created by a change in use or occupancy.
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8-6 ACCESSIBILITY
SECTION 8-601 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE
8-601.1 Purpose. The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to facilitate access and use by persons with disabilities to and throughout facilities designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. These regulations require enforcing agencies to accept alternatives to regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.
8-601.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to preserve the integrity of qualified historical buildings and properties while providing access to and use by persons with disabilities.
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.
- Provisions of this chapter do not apply to new construction or reconstruction/replicas of historical buildings.
- 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:
- These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or a case-by-case basis.
- 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
CHBC § 8-601.3 Medium 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.
- Provisions of this chapter do not apply to new construction or reconstruction/replicas of historical buildings.
- 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:
- These provisions shall be applied only on an item-by-item or a case-by-case basis.
- 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.
- Access to any entrance used by the general public and no further than 200 feet (60 960 mm) from the primary entrance.
- 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.
- 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:
- Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 30 inches (762 mm) of clear opening.
- Single-leaf door which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening
- Double door, one leaf of which provides a minimum 29 [1] / 2 inches (749 mm) clear opening.
- 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 § 8-603.5 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 § 8-901.5 Medium relevance — show source text
8-901.5 Energy conservation. Qualified historical buildings or properties covered by this part are exempted from compliance with energy conservation standards. When new nonhistorical lighting and space conditioning system components, devices, appliances and equipment are installed, they shall comply with the requirements of Title 24, Part 6, The California Energy Code, except where the historical significance or character-defining features are threatened.
SECTION 8-902 — MECHANICAL
8-902.1 General. Mechanical systems shall comply with the regular code unless otherwise modified by this chapter.
8-902.1.1 The provisions of the CHBC shall apply to the acceptance, location, installation, alteration, repair, relocation, replacement or addition of any heating, ventilating, air conditioning, domestic incinerators, kilns or miscellaneous heat-producing appliances or equipment within or attached to a historical building.
8-902.1.2 Existing systems which do not, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, constitute a safety hazard may remain in use.
8-902.1.3 The enforcing agency may approve any alternative to the CHBC which would achieve equivalent life safety.
8-902.2 Heating facilities. All dwelling-type occupancies covered under this chapter shall be provided with heating facilities. Woodburning or pellet stoves or fireplaces may be acceptable as heating facilities.
8-902.3 Fuel oil piping and tanks. Fuel oil piping and tanks shall comply with regular code requirements except that the enforcing agency may waive such requirements where the lack of compliance does not create a safety or environmental hazard.
8-902.4 Heat-producing and cooling equipment. Heat-producing and cooling equipment shall comply with the regular code requirements governing equipment safety, except that the enforcing agency may accept alternatives which do not create a safety hazard.
8-902.5 Combustion air.
8-902.5.1 All fuel-burning appliances and equipment shall be provided a sufficient supply of air for proper fuel combustion, ventilation and draft hood dilution.
8-902.5.2 The enforcing agency may require operational tests for combustion air systems which do not comply with applicable requirements of the regular code.
8-902.6 Venting of appliances.
8-902.6.1 Every appliance required to be vented shall be connected to an approved venting system. Venting systems shall develop a positive flow adequate to convey all combustion products to the outside atmosphere.
8-902.6.2 Masonry chimneys in structurally sound condition may remain in use for all fuel-burning appliances, provided the flue is evaluated and documentation provided that the masonry and grout are in good condition. Terra cotta chimneys and Type C metallic vents installed in concealed spaces shall not remain in use unless otherwise mitigated and approved on a case-by-case basis.
8-902.6.3 The enforcing agency may require operational tests for venting systems which do not comply with applicable requirements of the regular code.
8-902.7 Ducts.
8-902.7.1 New ducts shall be constructed and installed in accordance with applicable requirements of the regular code.
8-902.7.2 Existing duct systems which do not comply with applicable requirements of the regular code and do not, in the opinion of the enforcing agency, constitute a safety or health hazard may remain in use.
8-902.8 Ventilating systems.
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CHBC § 8-1002.1 Medium relevance — show source text
8-1002.1 The CHBC shall apply to all sites and districts and their features associated with qualified historical buildings or qualified historical districts as outlined in 8-1001.2 Scope.
8-1002.2 Where the application of regular code may impact the associated features of qualified historical properties beyond their footprints, by work performed secondarily, those impacts shall also be covered by the CHBC.
8-1002.3 This chapter shall be applied for all issues regarding code compliance or other standard or regulation as they affect the purpose of this chapter.
8-1002.4 The application of any code or building standard shall not unduly restrict the use of a qualified historical building or property that is otherwise permitted pursuant to Chapter 8-3 and the intent of the State Historical Building Code, Section 18956.
SECTION 8-1003 — SITE RELATIONS
The relationship between a building or property and its site, or the associated features of a district (including qualified historical landscape), site, objects and their features are critical components that may be one of the criteria for these buildings and properties to be qualified under the CHBC. The CHBC recognizes the importance of these relationships. This chapter shall be used to provide context sensitive solutions for treatment of qualified historical buildings, properties, district or their associated historical features, or when work to be performed secondarily impacts the associated historical features of a qualified historical building or property.
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APPENDIX A Col2 Col3 Col4 CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY CHAPTER 8-6—TABLE 1—PROVISION APPLICABILITY Title II
Public EntitiesTitle III
Private EntitiesTitle III
Barrier RemovalSECTION 8-601 PURPOSE, INTENT, SCOPE
**8-601.1 Purpose.**The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to facilitate
access and use by persons with disabilities to and throughout facilities designated as quali-
fied historical buildings or properties. These regulations require enforcing agencies to
accept alternatives to regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or
properties.
**8-601.2 Intent.**The intent of this chapter is to preserve the integrity of qualified historical
buildings and properties while providing access to and use by persons with disabilities.
**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.CHBC § 8-3 Medium relevance — show source text
This shall include historical buildings or properties on, or determined eligible for, national, state or local historical registers or inventories, such as the National Register of Historic Places, California Register of Historical Resources, State Historical Landmarks, State Points of Historical Interest, and city or county registers, inventories or surveys of historical or architecturally significant sites, places or landmarks.
RECONSTRUCTION. The act or process of depicting, by means of new construction, the form, features and detailing of a nonsurviving site, landscape, building, property or object for the purpose of replicating its appearance at a specific period of time.
REGULAR CODE. The adopted regulations that govern the design and construction or alteration of nonhistorical buildings and properties within the jurisdiction of the enforcing agency.
REHABILITATION. The act or process of making possible a compatible use for qualified historical building or property through repair, alterations and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its qualified historical, cultural or architectural values.
RELOCATION. The act or process of moving any qualified historical building or property or a portion of a qualified historical building or property to a new site, or a different location on the same site.
REPAIR. Renewal, reconstruction or renovation of any portion of an existing property, site or building for the purpose of its continued use.
RESTORATION. The act or process of accurately depicting the form, features and character of a qualified building or property as it appeared at a particular period of time by the means of the removal of features from other periods in its history and reconstruction of missing features from the restoration period. The limited and sensitive upgrading of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and other code-required work to make properties functional is appropriate within a restoration project.
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed, an edifice or a building of any kind, or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined together in some definite manner.
TREATMENT. An act of work to carry out preservation, restoration, stabilization, rehabilitation or reconstruction.
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8-3 USE AND OCCUPANCY
SECTION 8-301 — PURPOSE AND SCOPE
8-301.1 Purpose. The purpose of the CHBC is to provide regulations for the determination of occupancy classifications and conditions of use for qualified historical buildings or properties.
8-301.2 Scope. Every qualified historical building or property for which a permit or approval has been requested shall be classified prior to permit issuance according to its use or the character of its occupancy in accordance with the regular code and applicable provisions of this chapter.
SECTION 8-302 — GENERAL
8-302.1 Existing use. The use or character of occupancy of a qualified historical building or property, or portion thereof, shall be permitted to continue in use regardless of any period of time in which it may have remained unoccupied or in other uses, provided such building or property otherwise conforms to all applicable requirements of the CHBC.
8-302.2 Change in occupancy. The use or character of the occupancy of a qualified historical building or property may be changed from or returned to its historical use or character, provided the qualified historical building or property conforms to the requirements applicable to the new use or character of occupancy as set forth in the CHBC. Such change in occupancy shall not mandate conformance with new construction requirements as set forth in regular code.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which elements of my building are "character‑defining"?
Look to the list in § 8-201: the elements that visually and physically convey the building’s historic values (shape, materials, craftsmanship, decorative details, interior spaces, site). The local enforcing agency or historic consultant can help make the factual determination.
Can I always use an alternate accessibility solution if it preserves character?
No. The CHBC lets you use alternatives only where strict compliance would threaten or destroy character‑defining features; alternatives are applied item‑by‑item and must be documented per § 8-602.2.
What documentation is required to support an alternative?
Documentation should explain why the regular solution threatens character, what alternative is chosen, and evidence that the alternative provides equivalent access or protection of historic features; this documentation is required by § 8-602.2 and § 8-604 and must be kept in the enforcing agency’s file. file
If I make a small change to historical materials, does that automatically destroy character?
Not automatically. The CHBC requires a reasoned, case‑by‑case evaluation; minor or in‑kind repairs might be acceptable (see repair/in‑kind language in § 8-105.1), but irreversible changes to defining materials or forms that convey significance can trigger the need for alternatives. file
Who decides whether a feature is character‑defining or whether an alternative is acceptable?
The enforcing agency (local or state) makes the determination; for statewide or high‑impact questions, the State Historical Building Safety Board (SHBSB) may be consulted or must review certain actions (§ 8-104.2).
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