CHBC · California Historical Building Code
When are "exit ladder devices" allowed as means of egress?
In plain terms: the CHBC allows an exit ladder device (fixed, folding, retractable or hinged) only for second- or third‑story spaces that serve **fewer than 10 people**, and the ladder is normally limited to **25 feet** unless the building official approves otherwise; where sleeping rooms or basements are involved the escape opening must meet the size/operability requirements of **§ 8-503**.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
An exit ladder device is a permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged ladder used for emergency egress from second or third stories, and it is permitted only where the area served has an occupant load of less than 10 persons. The ladder is normally limited to 25 feet in length unless the building official approves a longer length. See the CHBC § 8-201 definition for the device and limits, and CHBC § 8-503 for related escape/opening requirements for sleeping rooms and basements.
The single most important rule: an exit ladder device is an emergency-only ladder for small occupant loads (fewer than 10 persons) on the 2nd–3rd story and is normally limited to 25 feet unless specifically approved otherwise.
Requirements in detail
What an "exit ladder device" is
- Defined term: Exit ladder device — permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged ladder intended for emergency egress from areas of the second or third stories. § 8-201 defines the term and its basic limits.
Key decision dimensions (quick reference)
| Dimension / question | What the CHBC requires (value) | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Stories where allowed | Second or third stories only | § 8-201 |
| Occupant load served | Less than 10 persons (i.e., 9 or fewer) | § 8-201 |
| Maximum ladder length | 25 feet unless longer length specifically approved | § 8-201 |
| Permanence / mounting | Must be permanently installed (fixed, folding, retractable or hinged types allowed) | § 8-201 |
| Escape window / door minima (sleeping rooms & basements) | Minimum clear area 3.3 sq ft; min width or height 18 in; operable from inside without special tools | § 8-503 |
| Related new/retrofit installation requirements (design/length/listing) | New fire escapes and exit ladder devices must comply with the provisions in the Means of Egress chapter; the building official may limit length based on tested/listed products | § 8-502.6 |
How the CHBC limits use (practical takeaways)
- An exit ladder device is expressly an emergency egress option for higher-level spaces where providing a conventional stair or fire escape may be impractical — but CHBC limits its use by occupant load and story. § 8-201 is the controlling definition.
- Where sleeping rooms or basements are involved, the CHBC also requires minimum escape/opening dimensions (clear area and minimum width/height) for emergency escape routes — see § 8-503.
- New fire-escape hardware and installation details (e.g., how long a device may be, structural/support considerations and product listing) are covered in the Means of Egress provisions (see § 8-502.6). Use of a ladder device may therefore be subject to the building official’s approval and product listing.
Exceptions & special cases
- The 25-foot length limit in § 8-201 can be exceeded only if specifically approved by the authority having jurisdiction (building official).
- CHBC Means of Egress provisions also permit the enforcing agency to grant reasonable exceptions where life safety will not be adversely affected; that discretion may affect whether an exit ladder device is approved in a particular historic building. See the general Means of Egress policy in the CHBC (e.g., § 8-502 series).
- If an occupant load served is 10 or more, the CHBC definition in § 8-201 does not permit an exit ladder device as the means of egress for that area; a different egress arrangement is required.
Common mistakes
- Misreading the occupant-load limit: the device is allowed only where the area served has an occupant load of less than 10 persons (not “10 or fewer”). Cite § 8-201.
- Forgetting the story limitation — the CHBC definition limits the device to use from second or third stories. Do not apply it to higher stories. § 8-201.
- Assuming an exit ladder device can replace all required stairs or be the primary exit for larger occupancies — CHBC limits and the building official’s approval control when it can count as an egress. § 8-201 and related Means of Egress sections.
- Overlooking escape/opening dimensions for sleeping rooms or basements (minimum clear area and min width/height) when using window egress in combination with a ladder device. See § 8-503.
Worked example
Scenario: A two-story historic boarding unit has a second-floor sleeping room that normally holds a small family; the calculated occupant load for the room and immediate area is 6 persons. The owner proposes a permanently mounted retractable exit ladder to reach the ground.
Application:
- Occupant load check: 6 < 10 → allowed under the CHBC definition for an exit ladder device. § 8-201.
- Story check: device is for a second-story unit → allowed. § 8-201.
- Length check: measured vertical distance to grade is 20 feet → below the 25-foot normal limit, so acceptable unless the building official imposes a different limit. § 8-201.
- Escape/opening check: because the room is a sleeping room below the fourth floor, the escape opening used with the ladder must meet § 8-503 minimums (clear area 3.3 sq ft, min width or height 18 in, operable from inside). If the proposed window or door opening meets those minima, the ladder plus opening can serve as emergency egress. § 8-503.
- Final step: submit product details and mounting plan to the building official; if the device is a listed product and installs under the device limits, approval is likely; if the ladder would exceed 25 ft or serve more occupants the official may require alternate egress or specific approvals per § 8-502.6.
Related provisions (CHBC sections)
- § 8-201 — Definitions (includes Exit ladder device definition and limits).
- § 8-503 — Escape or rescue windows and doors (minimum clear area and dimensions for basements & sleeping rooms).
- § 8-502.5 — Existing fire escapes (acceptance of previously approved fire escapes as an egress).
- § 8-502.6 — New fire escapes and fire escape ladders (construction/installation detail; building official discretion on approved lengths, support, listing).
- § 8-501 — Purpose, intent and scope of Means of Egress chapter (enforcing-agency discretion to accept equivalent alternatives for historic buildings).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Historical Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CHBC § 8-104.3 High 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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DEFINITIONS
electrical and plumbing systems and other code-related work to make properties functional is appropriate within a preservation project.
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 § 313.5 High relevance — show source text
Enclosures shall include all landings between flights and any corridors, passageways or public rooms necessary for continuous exit to the exterior of the buildings. The stairway need not be enclosed in a continuous shaft if cut off at each story by the fire-resistive construction required by this subsection for stairwell enclosures. Enclosures shall not be required if an automatic sprinkler system is provided for all portions of the building except bedrooms, apartments and rooms accessory thereto. Interior stairs and vertical openings need not be enclosed in two-story buildings.
313.5 Exterior stairways. Exterior stairways shall be noncombustible or of wood of not less than 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness with solid treads and risers.
313.6 Fire escapes, exit ladder devices. Fire escapes may be used as one means of egress if the pitch does not exceed 60 degrees, the width is not less than 18 inches (457 mm), the treads are not less than 4 inches (102 mm) wide, and they extend to the ground or are provided with counterbalanced stairs reaching to the ground. Access shall be by an opening having a minimum dimension of 29 inches (737 mm) when open. The sill shall not be more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor and landing.
A ladder device, when used in lieu of a fire escape, shall conform to Section 313.6.1 and the following: 1. Serves an occupant load of nine people or less or a single dwelling unit or hotel room. 2. The building does not exceed three stories in height. 3. The access is adjacent to an opening as specified for emergency egress or rescue or from a balcony. 4. The device does not pass in front of any building opening below the unit being served. 5. The availability of activating the ladder device is accessible only to the opening or balcony served. 6. The device as installed will not cause a person using it to be within 12 feet (3658 mm) of exposed energized high-voltage conductors.
313.6.1 Exit ladder devices.
313.6.1.1 Scope. This standard for exit ladder devices is applicable where such devices are permitted by the building official for installation on existing apartment houses and hotels in conformance with the California Building Code.
313.6.1.2 Instructions. Installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Instructions shall be illustrated and shall include directions and information adequate for attaining proper and safe installation of the product. Where exit ladder devices are intended for mounting on different support surfaces, specific installation instructions shall be provided for each surface.
313.6.1.3 General design. All load-bearing surfaces and supporting hardware shall be of noncombustible materials. Exit ladder devices shall have a minimum width of 12 inches (305 mm) when in the position intended for use. The design load shall not be less than 400 pounds (1780N) for 16-foot (4877 mm) length and 600 pounds (2699N) for 25-foot (7620 mm) length.
313.6.1.4 Performance.
313.6.1.4.1 Exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding an applied load of four times the design load when installed in the manner intended for use. Test loads shall be applied for a period of one hour.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3-9
CHBC § 1113.5 High relevance — show source text
1113.5 Exterior stairways. Exterior stairways shall be noncombustible or of wood of not less than 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness with solid treads and risers.
1113.6 Fire escapes, exit ladder devices. Fire escapes may be used as one means of egress if the pitch does not exceed 60 degrees, the width is not less than 18 inches (457 mm), the treads are not less than 4 inches (102 mm) wide, and they extend to the ground or are provided with counterbalanced stairs reaching to the ground. Access shall be by an opening having a minimum dimension of 29 inches (737 mm) when open. The sill shall not be more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor and landing.
A ladder device, when used in lieu of a fire escape, shall conform to Section 1113.6.1 and the following:
Serves an occupant load of nine people or less or a single dwelling unit or hotel room.
The building does not exceed three stories in height.
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
The access is adjacent to an opening as specified for emergency egress or rescue or from a balcony.
The device does not pass in front of any building opening below the unit being served.
The availability of activating the ladder device is accessible only to the opening or balcony served.
The device as installed will not cause a person using it to be within 12 feet (3658 mm) of exposed energized high-voltage conductors.
1113.6.1 Exit ladder devices.
1113.6.1.1 Scope. This standard for exit ladder devices is applicable where such devices are permitted by the building official for installation on existing apartment houses and hotels in conformance with the California Building Code.
1113.6.1.2 Instructions. Installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Instructions shall be illustrated and shall include directions and information adequate for attaining proper and safe installation of the product. Where exit ladder devices are intended for mounting on different support surfaces, specific installation instructions shall be provided for each surface.
1113.6.1.3 General design. All load-bearing surfaces and supporting hardware shall be of noncombustible materials. Exit ladder devices shall have a minimum width of 12 inches (305 mm) when in the position intended for use. The design load shall not be less than 400 pounds (1780 N) for 16-foot (4877 mm) length and 600 pounds (2699 N) for 25-foot (7620 mm) length.
1113.6.1.4 Performance.
1113.6.1.4.1 Exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding an applied load of four times the design load when installed in the manner intended for use. Test loads shall be applied for a period of one hour.
1113.6.1.4.2 Exit ladder devices of the retractable type shall, in addition to the static load requirements of Section 413.6.1.4.1 of the California Building Code, be capable of withstanding the following tests: 1. Rung strength 2. Rung-to-side-rail shear strength
3. Release mechanism
CHBC § 1113.2 High relevance — show source text
1113.2 Number of exits. Every apartment and every other sleeping room shall have access to not less than two exits when the occupant load is 10 or more (exits need not be directly from the apartment or sleeping room). A fire escape as specified herein may be used as one required exit.
Subject to approval of the authority having jurisdiction, a ladder device as specified herein may be used in lieu of a fire escape when the construction feature or the location of the building on the property cause the installation of a fire escape to be impractical.
1113.3 Stair construction. All stairs shall have a minimum run of 9 inches (229 mm) and a maximum rise of 8 inches (203 mm) and a minimum width exclusive of handrails of 30 inches (762 mm). Every stairway shall have at least one handrail. A landing having a mini- mum horizontal dimension of 30 inches (762 mm) shall be provided at each point of access to the stairway.
1113.4 Interior stairways. Every interior stairway shall be enclosed with walls of not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction. Where existing partitions form part of a stairwell enclosure, wood lath and plaster in good condition will be acceptable in lieu of one- hour fire-resistive construction. Doors to such enclosures shall be protected by a self-closing door equivalent to a solid wood door with a thickness of not less than 1 [3] / 4 inches (44.5 mm).
Enclosures shall include all landings between flights and any corridors, passageways or public rooms necessary for continuous exit to the exterior of the buildings. The stairway need not be enclosed in a continuous shaft if cut off at each story by the fire-resistive construc- tion required by this subsection for stairwell enclosures. Enclosures shall not be required if an automatic sprinkler system is provided for all portions of the building except bedrooms, apartments and rooms accessory thereto. Interior stairs and vertical openings need not be enclosed in two-story buildings.
1113.5 Exterior stairways. Exterior stairways shall be noncombustible or of wood of not less than 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness with solid treads and risers.
1113.6 Fire escapes, exit ladder devices. Fire escapes may be used as one means of egress if the pitch does not exceed 60 degrees, the width is not less than 18 inches (457 mm), the treads are not less than 4 inches (102 mm) wide, and they extend to the ground or are provided with counterbalanced stairs reaching to the ground. Access shall be by an opening having a minimum dimension of 29 inches (737 mm) when open. The sill shall not be more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor and landing.
A ladder device, when used in lieu of a fire escape, shall conform to Section 1113.6.1 and the following:
Serves an occupant load of nine people or less or a single dwelling unit or hotel room.
The building does not exceed three stories in height.
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CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS
The access is adjacent to an opening as specified for emergency egress or rescue or from a balcony.
The device does not pass in front of any building opening below the unit being served.
CHBC § 1006.2.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1006.2.1.1 Three or more exits or exit access doorways. Three exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load of 501 to 1,000. Four exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load greater than 1,000.
1006.2.2 Egress based on use. The numbers, configuration and types of components of exits or access to exits shall be provided in the uses described in Sections 1006.2.2.1 through 1006.2.2.7 .
1006.2.2.1 Boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms. Two exit access doorways are required in boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms where the area is over 500 square feet (46 m [2] ) and any fuel-fired equipment exceeds 400,000 British thermal units (Btu) (422 000 KJ) input capacity. Where two exit access doorways are required, one is permitted to be a fixed ladder or an alternating tread device. Exit access doorways shall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the room. 1006.2.2.2 Refrigeration machinery rooms. Machinery rooms larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) shall have not less than two exits or exit access doorways. Where two exit access doorways are required, one such doorway is permitted to be served by a fixed ladder or an alternating tread device. Exit access doorways shall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the maximum horizontal dimension of the room.
Exit access travel distance shall be determined as specified in Section 1017.1, but all portions of a refrigeration machinery room shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of an exit or exit access doorway where such rooms are not protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system. Egress is allowed through adjoining refrigeration machinery rooms or adjoining refrigerated rooms or spaces.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
Exit and exit access doorways shall swing in the direction of egress travel and shall be equipped with panic hardware, regardless of the occupant load served. Exit and exit access doorways shall be tight fitting and self-closing. 1006.2.2.3 Refrigerated rooms or spaces. Rooms or spaces having a floor area larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ), containing a refrigerant evaporator and maintained at a temperature below 68°F (20°C), shall have access to not less than two exits or exit access doorways.
Exit access travel distance shall be determined as specified in Section 1017.1. All portions of a refrigerated room or space shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of an exit or exit access doorway leading to a nonrefrigerated area where such rooms are not protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system. Egress is allowed through adjoining refrigerated rooms or spaces.
Exception: Where using refrigerants in quantities limited to the amounts based on the volume set forth in the California Mechanical Code. Egress is allowed through adjoining refrigerated rooms or spaces.
CHBC § 8-502.6 Medium relevance — show source text
8-502.6 New fire escapes and fire escape ladders. New fire escapes and fire escape ladders which comply with this section shall be acceptable as one of the required means of egress. New fire escapes and new fire escape ladders shall comply with the following:
- Access from a corridor shall not be through an intervening room.
- All openings within 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be protected by three-fourths-hour fire assemblies. When located within a recess or vestibule, adjacent enclosure walls shall be of not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction.
- Egress from the building shall be by a clear opening having a minimum dimension of not less than 29 inches (737 mm). Such openings shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. The sill of an opening giving access shall not be more than 30 inches (737 mm) above the floor, step or landing of the building or balcony.
- Fire escape stairways and balconies shall support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.79 kN/m [2] ) and shall be provided with a top and intermediate handrail on each side. The pitch of the stairway shall not exceed 72 degrees with a minimum width of 18 inches (457 mm). Treads shall not be less than 4 inches (102 mm) in width, and the rise between treads shall not exceed 10 inches (254 mm). All stair and balcony railings shall support a horizontal force of not less than 50 pounds per lineal foot (729.5 N/m [2] ) of railing.
- Balconies shall not be less than 44 inches (1118 mm) in width with no floor opening other than the stairway opening greater than [5] / 8 inch (15.9 mm) in width. Stairway openings in such balconies shall not be less than 22 inches by 44 inches (559 by 1118 mm). The balustrade of each balcony shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) high with not more than 9 inches (287 mm) between balusters.
- Fire escapes shall extend to the roof or provide an approved gooseneck ladder between the top floor landing and the roof when serving buildings four or more stories in height having roofs with less than 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33.3 percent slope). Fire escape ladders shall be designed and connected to the building to withstand a horizontal force of 100 pounds (445 N) placed anywhere on the rung. All ladders shall be at least 15 inches (381 mm) wide, located within 12 inches (305 mm) of the building. Ladder rungs shall be [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm) in diameter and shall be located 12 inches (305 mm) on center. Openings for roof access ladders through cornices and similar projections shall have minimum dimensions of 30 inches by 33 inches (762 by 838 mm). The length of fire escapes and exit ladder devices shall be limited to that approved by the building official based on products listed by a recognized testing laboratory.
- The lowest balcony shall not be more than 18 feet (5486 mm) from the ground. Fire escapes shall extend to the ground or be provided with counterbalanced stairs reaching to the ground.
- Fire escapes shall not take the place of stairways required by the codes under which the building was constructed.
CHBC § 8-5 Medium relevance — show source text
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8-5 MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 8-501 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE
8-501.1 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish minimum means of egress regulations for qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC requires enforcing agencies to accept reasonably equivalent alternatives to the means of egress requirements in the regular code.
8-501.2 Intent. The intent of these regulations is to provide an adequate means of egress.
8-501.3 Scope. Every qualified historical building or portion thereof shall be provided with exits as required by the CHBC when required by the provisions of Section 8-102.
SECTION 8-502 — GENERAL
8-502.1 General. The enforcing agency shall grant reasonable exceptions to the specific provisions of applicable egress regulations where such exceptions will not adversely affect life safety.
8-502.2. Existing door openings and corridor widths of less than dimensions required by regular code shall be permitted where there is sufficient width and height for the occupants to pass through the opening or traverse the exit.
8-502.3 Stairs. Existing stairs having risers and treads or width at variance with the regular code are allowed if determined by the enforcing agency to not constitute a distinct hazard. Handrails with nonconforming grip size or extensions are allowed if determined by the enforcing agency to not constitute a distinct hazard.
8-502.4 Main entry doors. The front or main entry doors need not be rehung to swing in the direction of exit travel, provided other means or conditions of exiting, as necessary to serve the total occupant load, are provided.
8-502.5 Existing fire escapes. Existing previously approved fire escapes and fire escape ladders shall be acceptable as one of the required means of egress, provided they extend to the ground and are easily negotiated, adequately signed and in good working order. Access shall be by an opening having a minimum width of 29 inches (737 mm) when open with a sill no more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the adjacent floor, landing or approved step.
8-502.6 New fire escapes and fire escape ladders. New fire escapes and fire escape ladders which comply with this section shall be acceptable as one of the required means of egress. New fire escapes and new fire escape ladders shall comply with the following:
- Access from a corridor shall not be through an intervening room.
- All openings within 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be protected by three-fourths-hour fire assemblies. When located within a recess or vestibule, adjacent enclosure walls shall be of not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction.
- Egress from the building shall be by a clear opening having a minimum dimension of not less than 29 inches (737 mm). Such openings shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort. The sill of an opening giving access shall not be more than 30 inches (737 mm) above the floor, step or landing of the building or balcony.
- Fire escape stairways and balconies shall support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.79 kN/m [2] ) and shall be provided with a top and intermediate handrail on each side. The pitch of the stairway shall not exceed 72 degrees with a minimum width of 18 inches (457 mm).
CHBC § 1030.8. Medium relevance — show source text
For a room or space used for assembly purposes having fixed seating, see Section 1030.8.
d. For the travel distance limitations_ and number of exit and exit access requirements for rooms and spaces in Group I-2, see Section 407.4 of the California Building Code._
e. The common path of egress travel distance shall apply only in a Group R-3 occupancy located in a mixed occupancy building or within a Group R-3 or R-4 congregate living facility.
f. The length of common path of egress travel distance in a Group S-2 open parking garage shall be not more than 100 feet.
g. For the travel distance limitations in Groups R-3 and R-4 equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.3, see Section 1006.2.2.6.
h. For holding cells, see Section 408.3.11 of the California Building Code.
i.
In accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 13113(d), there is no requirement for automatic sprinkler protection in an existing Group I-2 located in Type IA construction.|[BE] 1006.2.1.1 Three or more exits or exit access doorways. Three exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load of 501 to 1,000. Four exits or exit access doorways shall be provided from any space with an occupant load greater than 1,000.
[BE] 1006.2.2 Egress based on use. The numbers, configuration and types of components of exits or access to exits shall be provided in the uses described in Sections 1006.2.2.1 through 1006.2.2.7 .
[BE] 1006.2.2.1 Boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms. Two exit access doorways are required in boiler, incinerator and furnace rooms where the area is over 500 square feet (46 m [2] ) and any fuel-fired equipment exceeds 400,000 British thermal units (Btu) (422 000 KJ) input capacity. Where two exit access doorways are required, one is permitted to be a fixed ladder or an
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MEANS OF EGRESS
alternating tread device. Exit access doorways shall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the length of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the room.
[BE] 1006.2.2.2 Refrigeration machinery rooms. Machinery rooms larger than 1,000 square feet (93 m [2] ) shall have not less than two exits or exit access doorways. Where two exit access doorways are required, one such doorway is permitted to be served by a fixed ladder or an alternating tread device. Exit access doorways shall be separated by a horizontal distance equal to one-half the maximum horizontal dimension of the room.
Exit access travel distance shall be determined as specified in Section 1017.1, but all portions of a refrigeration machinery room shall be within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of an exit or exit access doorway where such rooms are not protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system. Egress is allowed through adjoining refrigeration machinery rooms or adjoining refrigerated rooms or spaces.
CHBC § 313.6.1 Medium relevance — show source text
313.6.1 Exit ladder devices.
313.6.1.1 Scope. This standard for exit ladder devices is applicable where such devices are permitted by the building official for installation on existing apartment houses and hotels in conformance with the California Building Code.
313.6.1.2 Instructions. Installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Instructions shall be illustrated and shall include directions and information adequate for attaining proper and safe installation of the product. Where exit ladder devices are intended for mounting on different support surfaces, specific installation instructions shall be provided for each surface.
313.6.1.3 General design. All load-bearing surfaces and supporting hardware shall be of noncombustible materials. Exit ladder devices shall have a minimum width of 12 inches (305 mm) when in the position intended for use. The design load shall not be less than 400 pounds (1780N) for 16-foot (4877 mm) length and 600 pounds (2699N) for 25-foot (7620 mm) length.
313.6.1.4 Performance.
313.6.1.4.1 Exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding an applied load of four times the design load when installed in the manner intended for use. Test loads shall be applied for a period of one hour.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3-9
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
313.6.1.4.2 Exit ladder devices of the retractable type shall, in addition to the static load requirements of Section 413.6.1.4.1 of the California Building Code, be capable of withstanding the following tests: 1. Rung strength. 2. Rung-to-side-rail shear strength.
3. Release mechanism.
4. Low temperature.
313.6.1.5 Rung-strength test. Rungs of retractable exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding a load of 1,000 pounds (4448N) when applied to a 3 [1] / 2 -inch-wide (89 mm) block resting at the center of the rung. The test load shall be applied for a period of 1 hour. The ladder shall remain operational following this test.
313.6.1.6 Rung-to-side-rail shear test. Rungs of retractable exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding 1,000 (4448N) when applied to a 3 [1] / 2 -inch-wide (89 mm) block resting on the center rung as near the side rail as possible. The test load shall be applied for a period of 1 hour. Upon removal of the test load the fasteners attaching the rung to the side rail shall show no evidence of failure. The ladder shall remain operational following the test.
CHBC § 8-410.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Buildings with floors above 75 feet, NFPA 13.
When the building is free standing or with property line separation, two floors and 1500 square feet per floor or less, NFPA 13D.
For exterior wall and opening protection. As required by this chapter.
Exception: When the automatic sprinkler systems are used to reach compliance using this code, in three or more occasions, NFPA 13D standard shall be increased to NFPA 13R standard, or NFPA 13R standard shall be increased to a NFPA 13 standard.
8-410.3 Automatic sprinkler systems shall not be used to substitute for or act as an alternate to the required number of exits from any facility. (See Chapter 8-5 for exiting requirements.)
8-410.4 An automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in all detention facilities.
SECTION 8-411 — OTHER TECHNOLOGIES
Fire alarm systems, smoke and heat detection systems, occupant notification and annunciation systems, smoke control systems and fire modeling, timed egress analysis and modeling, as well as other engineering methods and technologies may be accepted by the enforcing agency to address areas of nonconformance.
SECTION 8-412 — HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
Qualified historical buildings having floors for human occupancy located more than 75 feet above the lowest floor level having building access shall conform to the provisions of the regular code for existing high-rise buildings as amended by the CHBC.
8 2025 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE
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8-5 MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 8-501 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE
8-501.1 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish minimum means of egress regulations for qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC requires enforcing agencies to accept reasonably equivalent alternatives to the means of egress requirements in the regular code.
8-501.2 Intent. The intent of these regulations is to provide an adequate means of egress.
8-501.3 Scope. Every qualified historical building or portion thereof shall be provided with exits as required by the CHBC when required by the provisions of Section 8-102.
SECTION 8-502 — GENERAL
8-502.1 General. The enforcing agency shall grant reasonable exceptions to the specific provisions of applicable egress regulations where such exceptions will not adversely affect life safety.
8-502.2. Existing door openings and corridor widths of less than dimensions required by regular code shall be permitted where there is sufficient width and height for the occupants to pass through the opening or traverse the exit.
8-502.3 Stairs. Existing stairs having risers and treads or width at variance with the regular code are allowed if determined by the enforcing agency to not constitute a distinct hazard. Handrails with nonconforming grip size or extensions are allowed if determined by the enforcing agency to not constitute a distinct hazard.
8-502.4 Main entry doors. The front or main entry doors need not be rehung to swing in the direction of exit travel, provided other means or conditions of exiting, as necessary to serve the total occupant load, are provided.
CHBC § 1113.6.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1113.6.1.1 Scope. This standard for exit ladder devices is applicable where such devices are permitted by the building official for installation on existing apartment houses and hotels in conformance with the California Building Code.
1113.6.1.2 Instructions. Installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Instructions shall be illustrated and shall include directions and information adequate for attaining proper and safe installation of the product. Where exit ladder devices are intended for mounting on different support surfaces, specific installation instructions shall be provided for each surface.
1113.6.1.3 General design. All load-bearing surfaces and supporting hardware shall be of noncombustible materials. Exit ladder devices shall have a minimum width of 12 inches (305 mm) when in the position intended for use. The design load shall not be less than 400 pounds (1780 N) for 16-foot (4877 mm) length and 600 pounds (2699 N) for 25-foot (7620 mm) length.
1113.6.1.4 Performance.
1113.6.1.4.1 Exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding an applied load of four times the design load when installed in the manner intended for use. Test loads shall be applied for a period of one hour.
1113.6.1.4.2 Exit ladder devices of the retractable type shall, in addition to the static load requirements of Section 413.6.1.4.1 of the California Building Code, be capable of withstanding the following tests: 1. Rung strength 2. Rung-to-side-rail shear strength
3. Release mechanism
4. Low temperature
1113.6.1.5 Rung-strength test. Rungs of retractable exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding a load of 1,000 pounds (4448 N) when applied to a 3 [1] / 2 -inch-wide (89 mm) block resting at the center of the rung. The test load shall be applied for a period of one hour. The ladder shall remain operational following this test.
1113.6.1.6 Rung-to-side-rail shear test. Rungs of retractable exit ladder devices shall be capable of withstanding 1,000 (4448 N) when applied to a 3 [1] / 2 -inch-wide (89 mm) block resting on the center rung as near the side rail as possible. The test load shall be applied for a period of one hour. Upon removal of the test load the fasteners attaching the rung to the side rail shall show no evidence of failure. The ladder shall remain operational following the test.
1113.6.1.7 Release mechanism test. The release mechanism of retractable exit ladder devices shall operate with an average applied force of not more than 5 pounds (22.2 N) for hand-operated releasing mechanisms and an average applied force of not more than 25 pounds (111 N) for foot-pedal types of releasing mechanisms. For these tests, a force gauge shall be applied to the release mechanism, and the average of three consecutive readings shall be computed.
Frequently asked questions
May an exit ladder device be used for an apartment with 10 occupants?
No. The CHBC permits exit ladder devices only where the area served has an occupant load of less than 10 persons; an area with 10 or more occupants would not qualify under § 8-201.
Is the 25-foot ladder length absolute?
No — the CHBC sets a default 25-foot limit in § 8-201, but the building official may approve a longer length in specific cases (or limit length based on listed products or other Means of Egress rules).
Do escape windows still need to meet size requirements if I use an exit ladder?
Yes. Sleeping rooms and basements must have an openable emergency escape opening meeting § 8-503 minima (clear area 3.3 sq ft, min width or height 18 in) even if an exit ladder is provided.
Can an exit ladder device substitute for required stairways in the historic building?
Not generally. Exit ladder devices are limited-use egress options for small-occupant areas; they are not a blanket substitute for required stairs. The means of egress chapter and the building official’s discretion control whether a ladder device can count as an accepted means. See CHBC Means of Egress policy and § 8-502 series.
Who decides whether a proposed exit ladder device is acceptable?
The authority having jurisdiction / building official reviews and approves exit ladder devices, including any exceptions to length or application, and may require product listing or compliance with Means of Egress installation provisions (see § 8-502.6).
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