CHBC · California Historical Building Code

What is an exit ladder device and where is it allowed?

An exit ladder device under the CHBC is a permanently-installed ladder for emergency egress from second- or third-floor areas that serve fewer than 10 people and is typically limited to 25 feet; acceptance and any exceptions require the building official’s approval (see § 8-201 and § 8-502.6).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

An exit ladder device is a permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged ladder intended for emergency egress from areas on the second or third stories, and it is limited in length to 25 feet unless a longer length is specifically approved. The CHBC permits these ladders only where the area served has an occupant load less than 10 persons. These basic definitions and limits are set out in § 8-201 of the CHBC.

The single most important rule: an exit ladder device is allowed only for second- or third-story egress and only where the area served has fewer than 10 occupants.

Requirements in detail

Basic definition and scope

  • The CHBC defines exit ladder device in § 8-201 (definitions) as a permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged ladder intended for emergency egress from second- or third-story areas; length limited to 25 feet unless approved for a longer length; permitted where occupant load is less than 10 persons.

Where CHBC expressly permits them

  • The CHBC allows new fire escapes and fire escape ladders (which includes exit ladder devices as one form of egress) to be accepted as one required means of egress when they meet the CHBC conditions in § 8-502.6. That section lists access, opening protection, opening size, sill height and other conditions for new fire escapes and ladders.

Decision-relevant dimensions and values

Decision item Required / allowed value Code Reference
Stories served Second or third story only § 8-201
Occupant load limit for area served Less than 10 persons § 8-201
Maximum ladder length (typical) 25 feet (7620 mm) unless specifically approved for longer § 8-201
Access opening clear dimension Minimum 29 inches (737 mm) when open (for fire escapes/access) § 8-502.6
Sill height (max) for access to ladder 30 inches (762 mm) above floor/landing § 8-502.6
Ladder minimum width (fire escape ladders) 15 inches (381 mm) (applies to ladders specified in § 8-502.6) § 8-502.6
Approval basis for lengths/products Length and products limited to what the building official approves based on products listed by a recognized testing laboratory § 8-502.6

Installation and acceptance points

  • CHBC requires that new fire escapes and fire escape ladders comply with the listed provisions in § 8-502.6 (access not through intervening rooms, opening protection within 10 ft, minimum opening and sill dimensions, structural/load requirements for stairs/balconies where applicable). Where an exit ladder device meets these requirements, it can be accepted as one required means of egress.
  • Existing, previously approved fire escapes and fire escape ladders remain acceptable provided they extend to the ground and are "easily negotiated, adequately signed and in good working order" per § 8-502.5.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CHBC definition allows a longer ladder only if specifically approved (i.e., the building official may permit longer lengths based on approved/listed products) — the practical length limit is not absolute if the authority approves otherwise. § 8-201 and § 8-502.6 explain this approval basis.
  • The CHBC is focused on qualified historical buildings; the enforcing agency is directed to grant reasonable exceptions where life safety is not adversely affected (§ 8-502.1). This means local judgment may allow alternatives in specific preservation contexts.
  • CHBC distinguishes between "fire escapes" (stair-type) and "exit ladder devices" (ladder-type). Some dimensional/structural provisions in § 8-502.6 are written for fire escapes and stairways; the building official will determine which specific subsections apply to a proposed ladder device.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming an exit ladder device can serve areas with an occupant load of 10 or more — the CHBC limit is less than 10 unless the authority approves otherwise. § 8-201.
  • Confusing temporary or portable ladders with CHBC exit ladder devices — the CHBC definition requires the ladder to be permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged. § 8-201.
  • Forgetting to verify access opening sizing and sill heights — new escapes/ladders must provide an access opening at least 29 inches and sill no more than 30 inches above the floor/landing per § 8-502.6.
  • Treating CHBC as identical to the regular CBC/CEC/Fire Code for products and testing—CHBC allows alternatives for historical buildings, but product approvals and limits (e.g., length and listed products) still rely on the building official. See § 8-502.1, § 8-201 and § 8-502.6.

Worked example

Scenario: A project proposes an exit ladder device for a second-floor apartment rental unit. The apartment is a single unit with an occupant load of 6. The opening to the fire-escape/ladder will provide a clear opening of 30 inches, the sill height will be 24 inches above the floor, and the ladder run from sill to ground is 20 feet.

Step 1 — Occupant load check: the unit serves 6 occupants, which is less than 10, so the CHBC occupant-load criterion for an exit ladder device is met. § 8-201.
Step 2 — Story check: the device will serve the second story, which is within the intended scope in § 8-201.
Step 3 — Length check: proposed ladder length 20 ft is under the typical 25 ft limit in § 8-201, so acceptable unless the building official imposes other limits.
Step 4 — Access opening and sill: the opening 30 in clear and sill 24 in meet the minimum 29 in opening and ≤30 in sill requirements in § 8-502.6 that apply to new escape openings.

Conclusion: Under the CHBC, this proposed exit ladder device meets the primary definition and dimensional criteria and thus may be accepted as one means of egress, subject to final approval by the building official and any local enforcing-agency conditions. § 8-201 and § 8-502.6 should be referenced on the plan submittal.

Related provisions

  • Definitions — § 8-201 (exit ladder device definition and limits).
  • General egress exceptions — § 8-502.1 (enforcing agency may grant reasonable exceptions).
  • Existing fire escapes accepted — § 8-502.5 (existing approved fire escapes/fire-escape ladders may remain acceptable).
  • New fire escapes and fire escape ladders (conditions) — § 8-502.6 (access, opening dimensions, sill height, ladder dimensions and approval basis).
  • Escape or rescue openings (windows/doors) — § 8-503 (emergency escape windows/doors requirements for sleeping rooms/basements).

Code references

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

  • CHBC § 8-2 High relevance — show source text

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    8-2 DEFINITIONS

    SECTION 8-201 — DEFINITIONS

    For the purpose of the CHBC, certain terms and phrases, words and their derivatives shall be construed as specified in this chapter. Additional definitions and/or terms may appear in the various other chapters relative to terms or phrases primarily applicable thereto. Any reference to “authority having jurisdiction” does not necessarily preclude the appellate process of Section 8-104.3.

    ADDITION. A nonhistorical extension or increase in floor area or height of a building or property.

    ALTERATION. A modification to a qualified historical building or property that affects the usability of the building or property, or part thereof. Alterations include, but are not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, reconstruction, historical restoration, changes or rearrangement of the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrangements in the plan configuration of walls and full-height partitions.

    BUILDING STANDARD. Any guideline, regulation or code that may be applied to a qualified historical building or property.

    CHARACTER-DEFINING FEATURE. Those visual aspects and physical elements that comprise the appearance of a historical building or property, and that are significant to its historical, architectural and cultural values, including the overall shape of the historical building or property, its materials, craftsmanship, decorative details, interior spaces and features, as well as the various aspects of its site and environment.

    CULTURAL RESOURCE. Building, site, property, object or district evaluated as having significance in prehistory or history.

    DISTINCT HAZARD. Any clear and evident condition that exists as an immediate danger to the safety of the occupants or public right of way. Conditions that do not meet the requirements of current regular codes and ordinances do not, of themselves, constitute a distinct hazard. Section 8-104.3, SHBC appeals, remains applicable.

    ENFORCING AGENCY, Authority Having Jurisdiction, Local Agency with Jurisdiction. An entity with the responsibility for regulating, enforcing, reviewing or otherwise that exerts control of or administration over the process of granting permits, approvals, decisions, variances, appeals for qualified historical buildings or properties.

    EXIT LADDER DEVICE. An exit ladder device is a permanently installed, fixed, folding, retractable or hinged ladder intended for use as a means of emergency egress from areas of the second or third stories. Unless approved specifically for a longer length, the ladder shall be limited to 25 feet (7620 mm) in length. Exit ladders are permitted where the area served by the ladder has an occupant load less than 10 persons.

    FIRE HAZARD. Any condition which increases or may contribute to an increase in the hazard or menace of fire to a greater degree than customarily recognized by the authority having jurisdiction, or any condition or act which could obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with the operations of firefighting personnel or the egress of occupants in the event of fire. Section 8-104.3, SHBC appeals, remains applicable.

    HISTORICAL FABRIC OR MATERIALS. Original and later-added historically significant construction materials, architectural finishes or elements in a particular pattern or configuration which form a qualified historical property, as determined by the authority having jurisdiction.

    HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE. Importance for which a property has been evaluated and found to be historical, as determined by the authority having jurisdiction.

  • CHBC § 8-104.3 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 § 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.

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  • 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 § 313.6.1 High 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.

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    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 § 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 § 3-9 High relevance — show source text

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    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.

    313.6.1.7 Release mechanism test. The release mechanism of retractable exit ladder devices shall operate with an average applied force of not more than 5 pounds (22.2N) for hand-operated releasing mechanisms and an average applied force of not more than 25 pounds (111N) 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.

    313.6.1.8 Low temperature operation test. Representative samples of the exit ladder devices shall be subjected to a temperature of -40ºC in an environmental chamber for a period of 24 hours. The release mechanism shall be operated immediately upon removal from the chamber. The ladder device shall function as intended without any restriction of operation.

    313.7 Doors and openings. Exit doors and openings shall meet the requirements of Sections 1008.1.2, 1008.8.1.8, 1008.1.9 and 708.6 of the California Building Code. Doors shall not reduce the required width of stairway more than 6 inches (152 mm) when open. Transoms and openings other than doors from corridors to rooms shall be fixed closed and shall be covered with a minimum of [3] / 4 -inch (19 mm) plywood or [1] / 2 -inch (13 mm) gypsum wallboard or equivalent material.

  • CHBC § 1006.2.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    [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.

    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.

    [BE] 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.

    [BE] 1006.2.2.4 Electrical rooms. The location and number of exit or exit access doorways shall be provided for electrical rooms in accordance with Section 110.26 of the California Electrical Code for electrical equipment rated 1,000 volts or less, and Section 110.33 of the California Electrical Code for electrical equipment rated over 1,000 volts. Panic hardware shall be provided where required in accordance with Section 1010.2.8.2.

    [BE] 1006.2.2.5 Vehicular ramps. Vehicular ramps shall not be considered as an exit access ramp unless pedestrian facilities are provided.

  • CHBC § 313.6.1.7 High relevance — show source text

    313.6.1.7 Release mechanism test. The release mechanism of retractable exit ladder devices shall operate with an average applied force of not more than 5 pounds (22.2N) for hand-operated releasing mechanisms and an average applied force of not more than 25 pounds (111N) 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.

    313.6.1.8 Low temperature operation test. Representative samples of the exit ladder devices shall be subjected to a temperature of -40ºC in an environmental chamber for a period of 24 hours. The release mechanism shall be operated immediately upon removal from the chamber. The ladder device shall function as intended without any restriction of operation.

    313.7 Doors and openings. Exit doors and openings shall meet the requirements of Sections 1008.1.2, 1008.8.1.8, 1008.1.9 and 708.6 of the California Building Code. Doors shall not reduce the required width of stairway more than 6 inches (152 mm) when open. Transoms and openings other than doors from corridors to rooms shall be fixed closed and shall be covered with a minimum of [3] / 4 -inch (19 mm) plywood or [1] / 2 -inch (13 mm) gypsum wallboard or equivalent material.

    Exceptions: 1. Existing solid-bonded wood-core doors 1 [3] / 8 inches thick (34.9 mm), or their equivalent may be continued in use. 2. Where the existing frame will not accommodate a door complying with Section 708.6 of the California Building Code, a 1 [3] / 8 - inch-thick (35 mm) solid-bonded wood-core door may be used.

    313.8 Exit signs. Every exit doorway or change of direction of a corridor shall be marked with a well-lighted exit sign having letters at least 5 inches (127 mm) high.

    313.9 Enclosure of vertical openings. Elevators, shafts, ducts and other vertical openings shall be enclosed as required for stairways in Section 313.4 or by wired glass set in metal frames. Doors shall be noncombustible or as regulated in Section 313.4.

    313.10 Separation of occupancies. Occupancy separations shall be provided as specified in Section 508 of the California Building Code. Lobbies and public dining rooms, not including cocktail lounges, shall not require a separation if the kitchen is so separated from the dining room. Every room containing a boiler or central heating plant shall be separated from the rest of the building by not less than a one-hour fire-resistive occupancy separation.

    Exception: A separation shall not be required for such rooms with equipment serving only one dwelling unit.

    313.11 Equivalent protection. In lieu of the separation of occupancies required by Section 313.10, equivalent protection may be permitted when approved by the enforcement agency.

  • 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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-11

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

    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 § 1113.6.1.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    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.

    1113.6.1.8 Low temperature operation test. Representative samples of the exit ladder devices shall be subjected to a tempera- ture of -40ºC in an environmental chamber for a period of 24 hours. The release mechanism shall be operated immediately upon removal from the chamber. The ladder device shall function as intended without any restriction of operation.

    1113.7 Doors and openings. Exit doors and openings shall meet the requirements of Sections 1008.1.2, 1008.8.1.8, 1008.1.9 and 708.6 of the California Building Code. Doors shall not reduce the required width of stairway more than 6 inches (152 mm) when open. Transoms and openings other than doors from corridors to rooms shall be fixed closed and shall be covered with a minimum of [3] / 4 -inch (19 mm) plywood or [1] / 2 -inch (13 mm) gypsum wallboard or equivalent material.

    Exceptions: 1. Existing solid-bonded wood-core doors 1 [3] / 8 inches thick (34.9 mm), or their equivalent may be continued in use. 2. Where the existing frame will not accommodate a door complying with Section 708.6 of the California Building Code, a 1 [3] / 8 - inch-thick (35 mm) solid-bonded wood-core door may be used.

    1113.8 Exit signs. Every exit doorway or change of direction of a corridor shall be marked with a well-lighted exit sign having letters at least 5 inches (127 mm) high.

  • 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:

    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.

Frequently asked questions

Can an exit ladder device be used for a fourth-floor unit in a historical building?

No. The CHBC definition limits exit ladder devices to egress from second or third stories. For higher floors, the ladder device is not within the CHBC definition and would not meet the listed criteria in § 8-201.

Is the 25-foot length an absolute cap?

Not necessarily—§ 8-201 sets 25 feet as the usual length limit unless approved specifically for a longer length. Additionally, § 8-502.6 says length and use are limited to what the building official approves based on products listed by a recognized testing laboratory. Seek the building official’s approval for exceptions.

Can an exit ladder device be the only required exit for a space with 9 occupants?

Potentially yes: CHBC allows ladder devices where the area served has less than 10 persons; however, the overall means-of-egress layout must still meet CHBC requirements for the building’s occupancy and the enforcing agency must accept it. Cite § 8-201 and coordinate with the building official.

Do existing historical fire-escape ladders have to be removed if they don’t meet modern dimensions?

Not automatically. § 8-502.5 permits existing, previously approved fire escapes and fire-escape ladders to remain acceptable as one required means of egress provided they extend to the ground and are easily negotiated, signed, and maintained. The enforcing agency evaluates whether they constitute a distinct hazard.

Who decides if a particular exit ladder product is acceptable?

The building official (enforcing agency) — product lengths and acceptance can be limited or permitted based on product listings from a recognized testing laboratory and the building official’s approval per § 8-502.6 (and the definition context in § 8-201).

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Related in the CHBC

Are existing stairs or handrails with nonconforming dimensions allowed?

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Stairs, fire escapes and exit ladder devices

California Historical Building Code