CHBC · California Historical Building Code

What CHBC provisions cover balcony egress openings, balustrade height and clearance to ground for fire-escape balconies?

For a homeowner: The CHBC requires new fire‑escape balconies to meet specific sizes, load capacity and safety details (see § 8-502.6) — e.g., a **44‑inch** minimum balcony width, **36‑inch** balustrade height, **29‑inch** clear egress opening and a maximum **30‑inch** sill height; emergency escape windows for sleeping rooms must provide **3.3 ft²** clear and **18‑inch** minimum dimension per **§ 8-503**; historical railing heights may be retained only if they do not create a hazard under **§ 8-504** .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

In the California Historical Building Code the detailed dimensional, strength and opening requirements for new fire escapes and fire‑escape balconies are in § 8-502.6. Emergency escape window/door minimum clearances for sleeping rooms and basements are in § 8-503, and the CHBC preserves historical railing/guardrail heights and baluster spacing unless a distinct hazard is created under § 8-504. See § 8-502.6 for the specific balcony/escape dimensions and load requirements, § 8-503 for escape opening minimums, and § 8-504 for the historical‑preservation rule on railings .

The most important rule: new fire‑escape balconies must meet the dimensional, load and opening rules in § 8-502.6, while historic railings may be retained at their historic height/spacing unless they create a distinct hazard per § 8-504 .

Requirements in detail

Important defined terms (first time bolded): fire escape, balcony, egress opening, sill height, balustrade, baluster spacing.

New fire escapes and balconies (key rules)

  • Access to a fire escape cannot be through an intervening room (access must be direct) — § 8-502.6 .
  • Openings within 10 feet of the escape must be protected by three‑quarters‑hour fire assemblies (and recess/vestibule enclosures can require one‑hour walls) — § 8-502.6 .
  • Egress from the building via the escape must be a clear opening with a minimum clear dimension of 29 inches and be operable from inside without keys/tools — § 8-502.6 .
  • The opening sill must be no more than 30 inches above the building floor, step or balcony landing — § 8-502.6 .
  • Fire escape stairways and balconies must support dead load plus a live load of 100 pounds per square foot (100 psf) and have top and intermediate handrails on each side — § 8-502.6 .
  • Stair pitch shall not exceed 72 degrees; minimum stairway width 18 inches; tread width not less than 4 inches; rise between treads not more than 10 inches — § 8-502.6 .
  • Balconies must be at least 44 inches wide; balcony floor openings (except stairway opening) not greater than 5/8 inch; stairway openings in such balconies not less than 22 inches by 44 inches — § 8-502.6 .
  • The balustrade of each balcony shall be not less than 36 inches high with no more than 9 inches between balusters — § 8-502.6 .
  • All stair and balcony railings must resist a horizontal load of 50 pounds per lineal foot of railing — § 8-502.6 .
  • The lowest balcony (termination) shall be no more than 18 feet from the ground; fire escapes shall extend to the ground or have counterbalanced stairs to the ground — § 8-502.6 .

Emergency escape/rescue windows and doors (sleeping rooms & basements)

  • Basements and every sleeping room below the fourth floor must have at least one openable emergency escape window or door opening directly to a public way, yard or exit court — § 8-503.
  • Minimum net clear area: 3.3 square feet (0.31 m²); minimum width or height dimension: 18 inches (457 mm). The opening must be operable from the inside and provide a full clear opening without special tools — § 8-503 .

Historic railing/guardrail allowance

  • The CHBC allows existing/historical railing heights and baluster spacing to continue unless a distinct hazard is identified or created by a change in use or occupancy — § 8-504. That is, historical dimensions may be retained except where unsafe conditions exist — § 8-504 .

Decision-relevant dimensions/values (quick reference)

Item Value / Threshold Where / How measured Code Reference
Minimum clear egress opening (new fire escape access) 29 inches (737 mm) Clear opening dimension when open § 8-502.6
Maximum sill height at escape opening 30 inches (737 mm) Measured from floor/landing § 8-502.6
Balcony minimum width (fire escape balcony) 44 inches (1118 mm) Clear width of balcony § 8-502.6
Stairway opening in balcony 22 in × 44 in (559 × 1118 mm) Opening to stairway § 8-502.6
Balustrade height (fire‑escape balcony) 36 inches (914 mm) Top of guard to balcony floor § 8-502.6
Baluster spacing (max) 9 inches (287 mm) Max gap between balusters § 8-502.6
Balcony floor opening max (non‑stair) 5/8 inch (15.9 mm) Max gap in floor § 8-502.6
Required structural live load 100 psf (4.79 kN/m²) Live + dead load capacity § 8-502.6
Railing horizontal load 50 lb/lineal ft Horizontal force capacity § 8-502.6
Lowest balcony max distance to ground 18 feet (5486 mm) Vertical distance from balcony to ground § 8-502.6
Emergency escape window clear area (sleeping rooms/basements) 3.3 ft² (0.31 m²) Net clear opening § 8-503
Emergency escape min width or height 18 inches (457 mm) Minimum side or head dimension § 8-503
Openings within 10 ft of escape Protected by 3/4‑hour opening protectives Fire assembly rating § 8-502.6
Historic railing allowance Historic height/spacing may remain unless hazard Policy allowance § 8-504

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CHBC permits continuation of historical railing heights and baluster spacing where removal or change would jeopardize historical character — unless a distinct hazard exists from a change in use or occupancy; in that hazard case updated guards may be required — § 8-504 .
  • The § 8-502.6 rules apply to new fire escapes and ladders; existing previously approved fire escapes are acceptable as a required means of egress provided they extend to the ground, are easily negotiated and in good working order (see related CHBC text on existing fire escapes) — see § 8-502.5 for that acceptance standard .
  • Openings within 10 feet of a fire escape require 3/4‑hour protection; where located in recesses or vestibules, adjacent enclosure walls may require 1‑hour construction — § 8-502.6 .
  • The CHBC values for emergency escape openings (§ 8-503) are the minimum for qualified historical buildings; confirm with the enforcing agency if alternate equivalencies are approved for preservation reasons — § 8-503 .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming the CHBC uses the same emergency‑window sizes as regular CBC/other codes — CHBC specifies 3.3 ft² and 18 in minimum dimension for escape openings in § 8-503, which differs from some other code tables; always cite § 8-503 .
  • Applying the historical railing allowance of § 8-504 to newly built fire‑escape balconies — new fire‑escape balconies must meet the dimensional/strength criteria in § 8-502.6 regardless of historic precedent .
  • Measuring sill height to grade or exterior instead of to the interior floor/landing — the 30‑inch sill limit in § 8-502.6 is from the floor/step/landing surface inside the building or on the balcony .
  • Overlooking required protection for openings within 10 ft of the escape — doors/windows too close to escapes must be protected by 3/4‑hour assemblies per § 8-502.6 .
  • Forgetting the structural live‑load requirement (100 psf) and railing horizontal load when evaluating structural adequacy — both are explicit in § 8-502.6 .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: You are restoring a historic three‑story apartment building and installing a new metal fire‑escape balcony that serves a second‑floor sleeping room.

Given:

  • Balcony serves a sleeping room that requires an egress opening.
  • The balcony will be the primary termination for the escape on that level, and the lowest balcony will be no more than 12 ft above ground.

Apply CHBC:

  1. Egress opening: Provide a clear opening with a minimum clear dimension of 29 inches and operable from inside without a key (meet § 8-502.6) .
  2. Sill height: Ensure the bottom of that opening (sill) is ≤ 30 inches above the balcony floor/landing (if higher, you must reduce sill or provide a step) per § 8-502.6 .
  3. Balcony width: Make the balcony at least 44 inches wide clear — § 8-502.6 .
  4. Balustrade: Provide a guard 36 inches high with balusters spaced at no more than 9 inches — § 8-502.6 . If the building owner insists on keeping the historic 30‑inch railing, the enforcing agency could allow that ONLY if no distinct hazard is present and preservation is justified under § 8-504 .
  5. Structural: Design the balcony and stairs for 100 psf live + dead load and provide railings that resist 50 lb/lineal ft horizontally — § 8-502.6 .
  6. Lowest balcony to ground: Your lowest balcony at 12 ft is within the 18‑ft limit so termination to ground is not required by that limit — § 8-502.6 . (If it were more than 18 ft, the escape would need to extend to ground or have counterbalanced stairs.)

This combination satisfies the CHBC dimensional and structural provisions while preserving options for historical features only per § 8-504 .

Related provisions

  • § 8-502.5 — Acceptance/conditions for existing previously approved fire escapes (extends to ground, min access opening 29 inches, sill max 30 inches) .
  • § 8-503 — Escape or rescue windows and doors: minimum clear area 3.3 ft², min dimension 18 inches; operable from inside (sleeping rooms/basements) .
  • § 8-504 — Railings and guardrails: historic heights/spacing may be retained unless a distinct hazard is identified .
  • § 8-501 — Chapter purpose/scope for Means of Egress (context for when CHBC egress rules apply) .
  • See CHBC fire‑protection chapters for requirements on automatic sprinklers and opening protection where noted; these can affect whether opening protectives are required near fire escapes (see cross references in § 8-502.6) .

Code references

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

  • CHBC § 8-502.6 High 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:

    1. Access from a corridor shall not be through an intervening room.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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.
    5. 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.
    6. 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.
    7. 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.
    8. Fire escapes shall not take the place of stairways required by the codes under which the building was constructed.
  • CHBC § 33.3 High relevance — show source text

    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. 6. 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. 7. 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. 8. Fire escapes shall not take the place of stairways required by the codes under which the building was constructed. 9. Fire escapes shall be kept clear and unobstructed at all times and maintained in good working order.

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    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.

  • CHBC § 1104.16.3 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Opening protectives shall not be required in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

    [BE] 1104.16.3 Dimensions. Fire escape stairways shall meet the minimum width, capacity, riser height and tread depth as specified in Section 1104.10.

    [BE] 1104.16.4 Access. Access to a fire escape stairway from a corridor shall not be through an intervening room. Access to a fire escape stairway shall be from a door or window meeting the criteria of Section 1005.1. Access to a fire escape stairway shall be directly to a balcony, landing or platform. These shall not be higher than the floor or windowsill level and not lower than 8 inches (203 mm) below the floor level or 18 inches (457 mm) below the windowsill.

    [BE] 1104.16.5 Materials and strength. Components of fire escape stairways shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.78 kN/m [2] ). Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be provided with a top and intermediate handrail on each side.

    [BE] 1104.16.6 Termination. The lowest balcony shall not be more than 18 feet (5486 mm) from the ground. Fire escape stairways shall extend to the ground or be provided with counterbalanced stairs reaching the ground.

    Exception: For fire escape stairways serving 10 or fewer occupants, an approved fire escape ladder is allowed to serve as the termination.

    1104.17 Corridor construction. Corridors serving an occupant load greater than 30 and the openings therein shall provide an effective barrier to resist the movement of smoke. Transoms, louvers, doors and other openings shall be kept closed or be self-closing. In Group I-2, corridors in areas housing patient sleeping or care rooms shall comply with Section 1105.5.

    Exceptions:

    1. Corridors in occupancies other than in Group H, that are equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.
    2. Corridors in occupancies in Group E where each room utilized for instruction or assembly has not less than one-half of the required means of egress doors opening directly to the exterior of the building at ground level.
    3. Corridors that are in accordance with the California Building Code .

    1104.17.1 Corridor openings. Openings in corridor walls shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code .

    Exceptions:

    1. Where 20-minute fire door assemblies are required, solid wood doors not less than 1.75 inches (44 mm) thick or insulated steel doors are allowed.

    2. Openings protected with fixed wire glass set in steel frames.

    3. Openings covered with 0.5-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or 0.75-inch (19.1 mm) plywood on the room side.

    4. Opening protection is not required where the building is equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

    1104.18 Dead ends. Where more than one exit or exit access doorway is required, the exit access shall be arranged such that dead ends do not exceed the limits specified in Table 1104.18.

    Exceptions:

    1. A dead-end corridor shall not be limited in length where the length of the dead-end corridor is less than 2.5 times the least width of the dead-end corridor.

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  • CHBC § 12-3 High relevance — show source text

    Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.

    Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of Part 2.

    Exception: Group R-1 occupancies provided with a monitored fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8 and designed in accordance with NFPA 13 may have openable windows permanently restricted to a maximum 4-inch (102 mm) open position.

    1031.2.2 Maintenance. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be kept clear and unobstructed at all times and shall be main- tained in good working order.

    1031.2.3 Examination. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be examined for structural adequacy and safety by a registered design professional or other person acceptable to the fire code official every 5 years. The examination shall determine whether the fire escape stairways and balconies can support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.78 kN/m). An inspection report shall be submitted to the fire code official after such examination.

    1031.3 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with Sections 1031.3.1 through 1031.3.3.

    1031.3.1 Minimum size. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet (0.53 m [2] ).

    Exception: The minimum net clear opening for grade-floor emergency escape and rescue openings shall be 5 square feet (0.46 m [2] ).

    1031.3.2 Minimum dimensions. The minimum net clear opening height dimension shall be 24 inches (610 mm). The minimum net clear opening width dimension shall be 20 inches (508 mm). The net clear opening dimensions shall be the result of normal operation of the opening.

    1031.3.3 Maximum height from floor. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall have the bottom of the clear opening not greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) measured from the floor.

    1031.4 Emergency escape and rescue doors. Where a door is provided as the required emergency escape and rescue opening, it shall be a swinging door or a sliding door.

    1031.5 Area wells. An emergency escape and rescue opening with the bottom of the clear opening below the adjacent grade shall be provided with an area well in accordance with Sections 1031.5.1 through 1031.5.3.

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    1031.5.1 Minimum size. The minimum horizontal area of the area well shall be 9 square feet (0.84 m [2] ), with a horizontal projection and width of not less than 36 inches (914 mm). The area well shall allow the emergency escape and rescue opening to be fully opened.

    Exception: The ladder or steps required by Section 1031.5.2 shall be permitted to encroach not more than 6 inches (152 mm) into the required dimensions of the area well.

  • CHBC § 8-5 High relevance — show source text

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    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:

    1. Access from a corridor shall not be through an intervening room.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. 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 § 1104.13.1 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Aisle stairs provided with a center handrail are not required to have additional handrails.

    1104.13.1 Height. Handrail height, measured above stair tread nosings, shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 42 inches (1067 mm).

    1104.14 Slope of ramps. Ramp runs utilized as part of a means of egress shall have a running slope not steeper than 1 unit vertical in 10 units horizontal (10-percent slope). The slope of other ramps shall not be steeper than 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5percent slope).

    1104.15 Width of ramps. Existing ramps are permitted to have a minimum width of 30 inches (762 mm) but not less than the width required for the number of occupants served as determined by Section 1005.1. In Group I-2, ramps serving as a means of egress and used for the movement of patients in beds shall comply with Section 1105.6.4.

    [BE] 1104.16 Fire escape stairways. Fire escape stairways shall comply with Sections 1104.16.1 through 1104.16.6.

    [BE] 1104.16.1 Existing means of egress. Fire escape stairways shall be permitted in existing buildings but shall not constitute more than 50 percent of the required exit capacity.

    [BE] 1104.16.2 Opening protectives. Doors and windows within 10 feet (3048 mm) of fire escape stairways shall be protected with [3] / 4 -hour opening protectives.

    Exception: Opening protectives shall not be required in buildings equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system.

    [BE] 1104.16.3 Dimensions. Fire escape stairways shall meet the minimum width, capacity, riser height and tread depth as specified in Section 1104.10.

    [BE] 1104.16.4 Access. Access to a fire escape stairway from a corridor shall not be through an intervening room. Access to a fire escape stairway shall be from a door or window meeting the criteria of Section 1005.1. Access to a fire escape stairway shall be directly to a balcony, landing or platform. These shall not be higher than the floor or windowsill level and not lower than 8 inches (203 mm) below the floor level or 18 inches (457 mm) below the windowsill.

    [BE] 1104.16.5 Materials and strength. Components of fire escape stairways shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.78 kN/m [2] ). Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be provided with a top and intermediate handrail on each side.

    [BE] 1104.16.6 Termination. The lowest balcony shall not be more than 18 feet (5486 mm) from the ground. Fire escape stairways shall extend to the ground or be provided with counterbalanced stairs reaching the ground.

    Exception: For fire escape stairways serving 10 or fewer occupants, an approved fire escape ladder is allowed to serve as the termination.

  • CHBC § 1030.17.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    Where an elevation change of 30 inches (762 mm) or less occurs between a cross aisle and the adjacent floor or grade below, guards not less than 26 inches (660 mm) above the aisle floor shall be provided.

    Exception: Where the backs of seats on the front of the cross aisle project 24 inches (610 mm) or more above the adjacent floor of the aisle, a guard need not be provided.

    [BE] 1030.17.3 Sightline-constrained guard heights. Unless subject to the requirements of Section 1030.17.4, a fascia or railing system in accordance with the guard requirements of Section 1015 and having a minimum height of 26 inches (660 mm) shall be provided where the floor or footboard elevation is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and the fascia or railing would otherwise interfere with the sightlines of immediately adjacent seating.

    [BE] 1030.17.4 Guards at the end of aisles. A fascia or railing system complying with the guard requirements of Section 1015 shall be provided for the full width of the aisle where the foot of the aisle is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below. The fascia or railing shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) high and shall provide not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) measured diagonally between the top of the rail and the nosing of the nearest tread.

    SECTION 1031—EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE

    [BE] 1031.1 General. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with the requirements of this section.

    [BE] 1031.2 Where required. In addition to the means of egress required by this chapter, emergency escape and rescue openings shall be provided in Group R occupancies:

    1. Group R-2 occupancies located in stories with only one exit or access to only one exit as permitted by Tables 1006.3.4(1) and 1006.3.4(2).

    2. Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies.

    Basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall have not fewer than one emergency escape and rescue opening in accordance with this section. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall not be required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such open

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    ings shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way, or to an egress balcony that leads to a public way.

    Exceptions: 1. In Groups R-1 and R-2 occupancies constructed of Type I, Type IIA, Type IIIA or Type IV construction equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 2. Group R-2.1 occupancies meeting the requirements for delayed egress in accordance with Section 1010.2.13 may have oper- able windows that are breakable in sleeping rooms permanently restricted to a maximum of 4-inch open position. 3. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings.

  • CHBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    Lintel clear spans in the table greater than 18 feet are shown for
    interpolation and information only.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
    a. See Table R608.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
    b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
    c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R608.8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
    d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or1/2 inch, whichever is less.
    e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
    f. DR indicates design required.
    g. Lintel depth,D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire length of the
    lintel.
    h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
    i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth,D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall be not less than the least
    amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at not more than_d_/2.
    j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.05. If the
    increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and bottom reinforcement shall be equal to or
    greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stir-
    rups that has been increased.
    k. Center distance,A, is the center portion of the clear span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield strengths.
    l. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance,A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.10.
    m.The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 18 feet. See Section R608.7.2.1. Lintel clear spans in the table greater than 18 feet are shown for
    interpolation and information only.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
    a. See Table R608.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
    b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
    c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R608.8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
    d.

  • CHBC § 18.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 4 . Emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard, court or exterior egress balcony that leads to a public

    way. 5 . Basements without habitable spaces and having not more than 200 square feet (18.6 m [2] ) in floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 6 . Storm shelters are not required to comply with this section where the shelter is constructed in accordance with ICC 500. 7 . Within individual dwelling and sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following: 7.1. One means of egress and one emergency escape and rescue opening. 7.2. Two means of egress. 8. In Group R-2.2 occupancies a certified fire escape is acceptable as a secondary means of egress for existing buildings for this section of the code.

    1031.2.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices. Emergency escape and rescue openings and any exit doors shall be maintained free of any obstructions other than those allowed by this section and shall be operational from inside the room without the use of keys or tools. Window-opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at all times.

    Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.

    Where security bars (burglar bars) are installed on emergency egress and rescue windows or doors, on or after July 1, 2000, such devices shall comply with California Building Standards Code, Part 12, Chapter 12-3 and other applicable provisions of Part 2.

    Exception: Group R-1 occupancies provided with a monitored fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.8 and designed in accordance with NFPA 13 may have openable windows permanently restricted to a maximum 4-inch (102 mm) open position.

    1031.2.2 Maintenance. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be kept clear and unobstructed at all times and shall be main- tained in good working order.

    1031.2.3 Examination. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be examined for structural adequacy and safety by a registered design professional or other person acceptable to the fire code official every 5 years. The examination shall determine whether the fire escape stairways and balconies can support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.78 kN/m). An inspection report shall be submitted to the fire code official after such examination.

    1031.3 Emergency escape and rescue openings. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with Sections 1031.3.1 through 1031.3.3.

  • CHBC § 1032.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exceptions: (1) Furniture or equipment constructed of wood or other material of similar combustibility may be permitted in an exit or exposed to an exit when approved by the enforcing agency. (2) When approved by the enforcing agency, combustible materials may be permitted in exit foyers and lobbies.

    (c) No person shall install, place or permit the installation or placement of any storage material of any kind in any exit regardless of the required width of such exit.

    Exception: Personal material located in metal lockers in Group B and E occupancies as defined in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2.

    (d) Aisles shall not be occupied by any person for whom seating is not available.

    1032.2 Reliability. Required exit accesses, exits and exit discharges shall be continuously maintained free from obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency where the building area served by the means of egress is occupied. An exit or exit passageway shall not be used for any purpose that interferes with a means of egress.

    1032.2.1 Security devices and egress locks. Security devices affecting means of egress shall be subject to approval of the fire code official. Security devices and locking arrangements in the means of egress that restrict, control, or delay egress shall be installed and maintained as required by this chapter.

    1032.2.2 Fire escapes. Security enclosures, fences or screening for fire escape stairways shall be approved by the fire code official and shall be constructed such that they do not impede egress to the public way. Means shall be provided for emergency personnel to access the fire escape stair from the exterior of the enclosure.

    1032.2.2.1 Maintenance. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be kept clear and unobstructed at all times and shall be maintained in good working order.

    1032.2.2.2 Examination. Fire escape stairways and balconies shall be examined for structural adequacy and safety by a registered design professional or other person acceptable to the fire code official every 5 years. The examination shall determine whether the fire escape stairways and balconies can support the dead load plus a live load of not less than 100 pounds per square foot (4.78 kN/m [2] ). An inspection report shall be submitted to the fire code official after such examination.

    1032.2.3 Locking arrangements in educational occupancies. In Group E occupancies, Group B educational occupancies and Group I-4 occupancies, egress doors with locking arrangements designed to keep intruders from entering the room shall comply with Section 1010.2.8.

    1032.3 Obstructions. A means of egress shall be free from obstructions that would prevent its use, including the accumulation of snow and ice.

    1032.3.1 Group I-2. In Group I-2, the required clear width for aisles, corridors and ramps that are part of the required means of egress shall comply with Section 407.4.3 of the California Building Code and Section 1020.3. The facility shall have a plan to maintain the required clear width during emergency situations.

  • CHBC § 10-61 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Group R-3 and R-4 occupancies.

    Basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall have not fewer than one emergency escape and rescue opening in accordance with this section. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall not be required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such open

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 10-61

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

    MEANS OF EGRESS

    ings shall open directly into a public way or to a yard or court that opens to a public way, or to an egress balcony that leads to a public way.

    Exceptions: 1. In Groups R-1 and R-2 occupancies constructed of Type I, Type IIA, Type IIIA or Type IV construction equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1. 2. Group R-2.1 occupancies meeting the requirements for delayed egress in accordance with Section 1010.2.13 may have oper- able windows that are breakable in sleeping rooms permanently restricted to a maximum of 4-inch open position. 3. Basements with a ceiling height of less than 80 inches (2032 mm) shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 4. Emergency escape and rescue openings are not required from basements or sleeping rooms that have an exit door or exit access door that opens directly into a public way or to a yard, court or exterior egress balcony that leads to a public

    way. 5. Basements without habitable spaces and having not more than 200 square feet (18.6 m [2] ) in floor area shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings. 6. Storm shelters are not required to comply with this section where the shelter is constructed in accordance with ICC 500. 7. Within individual dwelling and sleeping units in Groups R-2 and R-3, where the building is equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3, sleeping rooms in basements shall not be required to have emergency escape and rescue openings provided that the basement has one of the following: 7.1. One means of egress and one emergency escape and rescue opening. 7.2. Two means of egress. 8. In Group R-2.2 occupancies a certified fire escape is acceptable as a secondary means of egress of existing buildings for this section of the code.

    [BE] 1031.2.1 Operational constraints and opening control devices. Emergency escape and rescue openings and any exit doors shall be maintained free of any obstructions other than those allowed by this section and shall be operational from inside the room without the use of keys or tools. Window-opening control devices complying with ASTM F2090 shall be permitted for use on windows serving as a required emergency escape and rescue opening. The release mechanism shall be maintained operable at all times.

    Such bars, grills, grates or any similar devices shall be equipped with an approved exterior release device for use by the fire department only when required by the authority having jurisdiction.

Frequently asked questions

Do the CHBC dimensions for emergency escape windows match the CBC or residential code?

No. Under the CHBC § 8-503 the minimum net clear area is 3.3 ft² with a minimum width or height of 18 inches; this is the CHBC baseline for qualified historical buildings and may differ from other codes, so rely on § 8-503 for CHBC projects .

Can I keep an original 30‑inch balcony railing for historic character?

Possibly. § 8-504 permits historical railing heights/spacing to remain unless a distinct hazard is identified; however new fire‑escape balconies built under § 8-502.6 must meet the 36‑inch balustrade requirement (unless a specific alternative is approved) .

If an opening is within 10 feet of a fire escape, what is required?

Openings within 10 feet of the fire escape must be protected by three‑quarters‑hour opening protectives; recesses or vestibules may need one‑hour enclosure walls per § 8-502.6 .

How far can a balcony be above ground before it must extend to ground?

The CHBC limits the lowest balcony to no more than 18 feet above the ground; if higher, the fire escape must extend to the ground or provide counterbalanced stairs per § 8-502.6 .

What structural loads must I design the balcony and fire escape for?

Design for dead load plus a live load of 100 psf, and make railings resist a horizontal load of 50 lb/lineal ft as specified in § 8-502.6 .

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California Historical Building Code