CRSC · California Referenced Standards Code

What identification or Commission-approved labeling is required on insulation packages?

Packages of insulation sold in California must visibly state that a representative sample was tested and approved by an approved lab and that the product complies with state standards; the statement may be an Executive Director–approved design or the manufacturer’s ID plus a statement of compliance, with limited bill‑of‑lading exceptions and special combustibility labeling when flame spread exceeds 25 (see § 12-13-1557).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

No insulating material may be sold in California unless the package, container, bundle or similar packaging bears a visible Commission‑approved statement certifying that a representative sample was tested and approved by an approved laboratory and that the material complies with this article — see § 12-13-1557. § 12-13-1557 also prescribes allowable forms of that statement (an Executive Director–approved design/statement, or the manufacturer’s identification plus a statement that the material meets California quality standards), and it limits when a bill‑of‑lading statement satisfies the rule. § 12-13-1557

No insulation can be sold in California unless its packaging carries a visible, Commission‑approved certification that a representative sample was tested and approved by an approved lab and complies with this article. § 12-13-1557

Requirements in detail

Basic duty — what must appear on the package

  • The package, container, bundle or similar packaging must bear a visible Commission‑approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulating material was tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the article. § 12-13-1557(a)

Acceptable forms of the Commission‑approved statement

The Commission‑approved statement required by § 12-13-1557 may be either:

  • A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or
  • An identification of the manufacturer together with a statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California. § 12-13-1557(b)(1)–(2)

When a bill of lading is acceptable

  • A statement in the bill of lading that the material meets California quality standards satisfies the labeling requirement only if: (a) the product is shipped in bulk, or (b) the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user. § 12-13-1557(b)(3)

Consistency of advertised thermal performance

  • Any representation of thermal performance shown on labels, literature, advertising or other public writing must be consistent with the certification testing results and the derating required by the article. § 12-13-1557(c)

Combustibility warning for facings/membranes

  • If an insulation product has facings or membranes and the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings/membranes exposed under the ANSI/ASTM E84‑79 test, the product must be clearly labeled that it “may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application.” This labeling requirement does not apply to products meeting Sections 2602.1–2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code. § 12-13-1557(d)

Decision‑relevant dimensions/values (quick reference)

Item Requirement / Value Code Reference
Required visible statement on package Yes — certifies representative sample tested/approved by approved lab and complies with article § 12-13-1557(a)
Acceptable statement forms (1) Exec. Director–approved design/statement; or (2) manufacturer ID + statement material meets CA standards § 12-13-1557(b)(1)–(2)
Bill of lading substitutes Allowed only for bulk shipment, or unlabeled containers sold to ultimate user § 12-13-1557(b)(3)
Thermal performance claims Must match certification test results and derating required by the article § 12-13-1557(c)
Combustibility label trigger Flame spread > 25 (with facings/membranes exposed per ANSI/ASTM E84‑79) → must state product may be highly combustible if exposed § 12-13-1557(d)
Effective date for sale restriction Insulation may not be sold in CA on/after September 22, 1981 unless labeled § 12-13-1557(a)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Bill‑of‑lading labeling: a bill‑of‑lading statement suffices only where the product is shipped in bulk or not otherwise labeled and sold to the ultimate user — § 12-13-1557(b)(3) . Do not rely on this unless both conditions are met.
  • Exemption from combustibility label: the warning for flame spread > 25 does not apply to products that meet Sections 2602.1–2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code — § 12-13-1557(d) .
  • The Commission’s certification program and approved‑laboratory rules (how manufacturers obtain the right to use the statement) are handled elsewhere in the article (see related sections below) and affect what can appear on labels; manufacturers must follow the certification process in § 12-13-1555.

Common mistakes

  • Selling unlabeled product in California: failing to place a visible Commission‑approved statement on the package or container — violates § 12-13-1557(a).
  • Misusing a bill of lading: treating a bill‑of‑lading statement as a package label when the shipment is not bulk or when the product is labeled by manufacturer — see § 12-13-1557(b)(3).
  • Inconsistent thermal claims: publishing R‑values or other thermal performance figures that don’t match certified test results or the article’s derating rules — prohibited by § 12-13-1557(c).
  • Missing combustibility warning: not labeling products with facings/membranes that test > 25 flame spread for exposed use — required by § 12-13-1557(d).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: Acme Insulation produces a faced batt product claimed to be R‑13. Acme wants to sell rolls in California.

  1. Certification/testing: Acme has a representative sample tested and approved by an approved laboratory and completed the manufacturer certification process required elsewhere in the article (see § 12-13-1555).
  2. Label content: On each package Acme must place a visible Commission‑approved statement certifying the representative sample was tested by an approved laboratory and the product complies with the article — i.e., the package must carry either an Executive Director–approved design/statement or Acme’s name plus a statement that the material meets California quality standards, per § 12-13-1557(b)(1)–(2).
  3. Combustibility check: If Acme’s facing + batt, when tested per ANSI/ASTM E84‑79 with the facing exposed, produces a flame spread of 30, Acme must also put a clear label warning the product “may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application” as required by § 12-13-1557(d). If the product meets the cited 1994 UBC sections, that particular warning may not apply.
  4. Bulk shipment alternative: If Acme ships the same product in bulk (no individual packages) to a contractor and uses the bill of lading to state that the material meets California standards, that bill‑of‑lading statement will satisfy the labeling rule only if the shipment is in bulk OR the container is unlabeled and sold to the ultimate user, per § 12-13-1557(b)(3).

Related provisions

  • Manufacturer certification requirements and required test result details: § 12-13-1555
  • Inspection authority for compliance sampling and records access: § 12-13-1558
  • Commission authority to conduct independent performance tests: § 12-13-1559
  • Installed‑insulation contractor certification and water‑heater kit labeling: § 12-13-1564

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Referenced Standards Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CRSC § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
    2. The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.

    (c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.

    (d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.

    (e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.

    (f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were

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    conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

  • CRSC § 25921.1 High relevance — show source text

    Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1556.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    IDENTIFICATION

    Sec. 12-13-1557.

    (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.

    (b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:

    1. A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or

    2. An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.

    3. A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.

    (c) Any representation of thermal performance which appear on any label, literature, advertising or any other writing intended for the public shall be consistent with the certification testing results and derating required by this article.

    (d) Any insulation with facings and membranes for which the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings and membranes exposed to the flame during the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test must be clearly labeled with a statement that the product may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application. This subsection shall not apply to any product meeting the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSPECTIONS

    Sec. 12-13-1558.

    After September 22, 1981, the Commission may, upon the consent of the owner or lessee, or upon securing a search warrant, have access, during normal working hours, to the premises of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of insulating material sold for installation within the state for the purpose of determining compliance with the standards promulgated pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such access shall be for the purposes of obtaining representative samples of subject insulation and inspecting records and documents pertaining to tests by approved testing labs.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

  • CRSC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    R303.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and containers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, the product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the requirements.

    R303.2.1 Labeling of polystyrene foam insulation without flame retardants. In addition to the requirements of Section 2603.2 of the California Building Code, polystyrene foam insulation boards manufactured with no flame retardants added shall be labeled in accordance with this section.

    1. Each board shall be labeled on each face every 8 square feet in red [1] / 2 -inch text with the following information:

    WARNING – FIRE HAZARD This product is required to be installed below a minimum 3.5-inch thick concrete slab on grade

    NOT FOR VERTICAL OR

    ABOVE GRADE APPLICATIONS This product contains NO flame retardants. Not tested for flame spread or smoke development requirements of the model building codes. 2. Each package shall be labeled on at least two sides in red [1] / 2 -inch text with the following information:

    WARNING – COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL Keep away from ignition sources. Maintain code-required separation between product storage and structures under construction (minimum 30 feet).

    R303.3 Surface burning characteristics. Unless otherwise allowed in Section R303.5, foam plastic, or foam plastic cores used as a component in manufactured assemblies, used in building construction shall comply with Section R303.3.1 or R303.3.2. Loose-filltype foam plastic insulation shall be tested as board stock for the flame spread index and smoke-developed index.

    Exception s: 1. Spray foam plastic insulation more than 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested at a thickness of 4 inches (102 mm) and at the density intended for use. Such spray foam plastic shall be separated from the interior of a building by [1] / 2 -inch (12.7 mm)

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    gypsum wallboard or by a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275. 2. Polystyrene foam insulation boards with a maximum thickness of 2 inches where installed below a minimum 3.5-inch thick concrete slab on grade.

    R303.3.1 Foam plastic insulation 4 inches thick or less. Foam plastic insulation installed at 4 inches (102 mm) in thickness or less shall have a flame spread index of not more than 75 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested in the maximum thickness and density intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

  • CRSC § 15.9 High relevance — show source text

    R302.15.9 Interior applications. Interior fire-retardant-treated wood shall have a moisture content of not over 28 percent when tested in accordance with ASTM D3201 procedures at 92-percent relative humidity. Interior fire-retardant-treated wood shall be tested in accordance with Section R302.15.6 or R302.15.7. Interior fire-retardant-treated wood designated as Type A shall be tested in accordance with the provisions of this section.

    R302.15.10 Moisture content. Fire-retardant-treated wood shall be dried to a moisture content of 19 percent or less for fireretardant-treated lumber and 15 percent or less for fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels before use. For wood kiln dried after treatment (KDAT), the kiln temperatures shall not exceed those used in kiln drying the fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels and fire-retardant-treated lumber submitted for the tests described in Section R302.15.6 for fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels and Section R302.15.7 for fire-retardant-treated lumber.

    SECTION R303—FOAM PLASTIC

    R303.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the materials, design, application, construction and installation of foam plastic materials.

    R303.1.1 Spray-applied foam plastic. Single- and multiple-component spray-applied foam plastic insulation shall comply with the provisions of Section R303 and ICC 1100.

    R303.1.2 Insulating sheathing. Foam plastic materials used as insulating sheathing shall comply with the provisions of Section R303 and the material standards in Table R303.1.2.

    TABLE R303.1.2—MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR FOAM PLASTIC INSULATING SHEATHING Col2
    FOAM PLASTIC INSULATING SHEATHING MATERIAL STANDARDS
    Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) ASTM C578
    Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) ASTM C578
    Polyisocyanurate ASTM C1289

    R303.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and containers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, the product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the requirements.

    R303.2.1 Labeling of polystyrene foam insulation without flame retardants. In addition to the requirements of Section 2603.2 of the California Building Code, polystyrene foam insulation boards manufactured with no flame retardants added shall be labeled in accordance with this section.

    1. Each board shall be labeled on each face every 8 square feet in red [1] / 2 -inch text with the following information:

    WARNING – FIRE HAZARD This product is required to be installed below a minimum 3.5-inch thick concrete slab on grade

    NOT FOR VERTICAL OR

    ABOVE GRADE APPLICATIONS This product contains NO flame retardants. Not tested for flame spread or smoke development requirements of the model building codes. 2. Each package shall be labeled on at least two sides in red [1] / 2 -inch text with the following information:

    WARNING – COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL Keep away from ignition sources. Maintain code-required separation between product storage and structures under construction (minimum 30 feet).

  • CRSC § 2602.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 2602—FINISH AND TRIM

    2602.1 Exterior wall covering and architectural trim. See Chapter 14 for requirements for exterior wall covering and architectural trim.

    2602.2 Interior finish and trim. See Section 2604 for requirements for interior finish and trim.

    SECTION 2603—FOAM PLASTIC INSULATION

    2603.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the requirements and uses of foam plastic insulation in buildings and structures.

    2603.1.1 Spray-applied foam plastic. Single- and multiple-component spray-applied foam plastic insulation shall comply with the provisions of Section 2603 and ICC 1100.

    2603.1.2 Insulating sheathing. Foam plastic materials used as insulating sheathing shall comply with the provisions of Section 2603 and the material standards in Table 2603.1.2.

    TABLE 2603.1.2—MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR FOAM PLASTIC INSULATING SHEATHING Col2
    MATERIAL STANDARD
    Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) ASTM C578
    Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) ASTM C578
    Polyisocyanurate ASTM C1289

    2603.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and containers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the code requirements.

    2603.2.1 Labeling of polystyrene foam insulation without flame retardants . In addition to the requirements of Section 2603.2, polystyrene foam insulation boards manufactured with no flame retardants added shall be labeled in accordance with this section. 1. Each board shall be labeled on each face every 8 square feet in red [1] / 2 -inch text with the following information:

    WARNING - FIRE HAZARD

    This product is required to be installed below a minimum 3.5-inch-thick concrete slab on grade.

    NOT FOR VERTICAL OR ABOVE-GRADE APPLICATIONS

    This product contains NO flame retardants.

    Not tested for flame spread or smoke development requirements of the model building codes 2. Each package shall be labeled on at least two sides in red [1] / 2 -text with the following information:

    WARNING – COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL

    Keep away from ignition sources.

    Maintain code required separation between product storage and structures under construction (minimum 30 feet).

    2603.3 Surface-burning characteristics. Unless otherwise indicated in this section, foam plastic insulation and foam plastic cores of manufactured assemblies shall have a flame spread index of not more than 75 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 where tested in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. Loose fill-type foam plastic insulation shall be tested as board stock for the flame spread and smoke-developed indices.

    Exceptions:

    1. Smoke-developed index for interior trim as provided for in Section 2604.2.

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  • CRSC § 50.8 High relevance — show source text
    1. Wood floor assemblies using dimension lumber or structural composite lumber equal to or greater than 2-inch by 10-inch (50.8 mm by 254 mm) nominal dimension, or other approved floor assemblies demonstrating equivalent fire performance.
    2. Wood floor assemblies less than 600 square feet (55.7 m [2] ) within detached accessory structures with no habitable space above them.

    R302.14 Combustible insulation clearance. Combustible insulation shall be separated not less than 3 inches (76 mm) from recessed luminaires, fan motors and other heat-producing devices.

    Exception: Where heat-producing devices are listed for lesser clearances, combustible insulation complying with the listing requirements shall be separated in accordance with the conditions stipulated in the listing.

    Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal envelope shall meet the requirements of the California Energy Code .

    R302.15 Fire-retardant-treated wood. Fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW) is any wood product that, when impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process or other means during manufacture, shall have, when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723, a listed flame spread index of 25 or less. In addition, the ASTM E84 or UL 723 test shall be continued for an additional 20-minute period and the flame front shall not progress more than 10.5 feet (3200 mm) beyond the center line of the burners at any time during the test.

    R302.15.1 Pressure process. For wood products impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process, the process shall be performed in closed vessels under pressures not less than 50 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (344.7 kPa).

    R302.15.2 Other means during manufacture. For wood products impregnated with chemicals by other means during manufacture, the treatment shall be an integral part of the manufacturing process of the wood product. The treatment shall provide permanent protection to all surfaces of the wood product. The use of paints, coating, stains or other surface treatments is not an approved method of protection as required by this section.

    R302.15.3 Testing. For fire-retardant-treated wood products, the front and back faces of the wood product shall be tested in accordance with and produce the results required in Section R302.15.

    R302.15.3.1 Fire testing of fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels. Fire-retardant-treated wood structural panels shall be tested with a ripped or cut longitudinal gap of [1] / 8 inch (3.2 mm).

    302.15.4 Labeling. In addition to the labels required by Section R802.1.1 for sawn lumber and Section R803.2.1 for wood structural panels, each piece of fire-retardant-treated lumber and fire-retardant-treated wood structural panel shall be labeled. The label shall contain:

    1. The identification mark of an approved agency in accordance with Section 1703.5 of the California Building Code.

    2. Identification of the treating manufacturer.

    3. The name of the fire-retardant treatment.

    4. The species of wood treated.

    5. Flame spread index and smoke-developed index.

    6. Method of drying after treatment.

    7. Conformance to applicable standards in accordance with Sections R302.15.5 through R302.15.10.

    8. For FRTW exposed to weather, or a damp or wet location, the words “No increase in the listed classification when subjected to the Standard Rain Test” (ASTM D2898).

  • CRSC § 2614.1 High relevance — show source text

    2614.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the requirements and uses of reflective plastic core insulation in buildings and structures. Reflective plastic core insulation shall comply with the requirements of Section 2614 and of Section 2614.3 or 2614.4.

    2614.2 Identification. Packages and containers of reflective plastic core insulation delivered to the job site shall show the manufacturer’s or supplier’s name, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the code requirements.

    2614.3 Surface-burning characteristics. Reflective plastic core insulation shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. The reflective plastic core insulation shall be tested at the maximum thickness intended for use. Test specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2599.

    2614.4 Room corner test heat release. Reflective plastic core insulation shall comply with the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1 when tested in accordance with NFPA 286 or UL 1715 in the manner intended for use and at the maximum thickness

    intended for use.

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    CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 27 – ELECTRICAL

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
    Adopt entire chapter
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)    		 X
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    Chapter / Section
    2702.1.2 X
    2702.2.11 X
    2702.2.13 X
  • CRSC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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    26 PLASTIC

    User notes:

    About this chapter: The use of plastics in building construction and components is addressed in Chapter 26. This chapter provides standards addressing foam plastic insulation, foam plastics used as interior finish and trim, and other plastic veneers used on the inside or outside of a building. This chapter addresses the use of light-transmitting plastics in various configurations such as walls, roof panels, skylights, signs and glazing. Requirements for the use of fiber-reinforced polymers, fiberglass-reinforced polymers and reflective plastic core insulation are also contained in this chapter. Additionally, requirements specific to the use of wood-plastic composites and plastic lumber are contained in this chapter.

    SECTION 2601—GENERAL

    2601.1 Scope. These provisions shall govern the materials, design, application, construction and installation of foam plastic, foam plastic insulation, plastic veneer, interior plastic finish and trim, light-transmitting plastics and plastic composites, including plastic lumber.

    SECTION 2602—FINISH AND TRIM

    2602.1 Exterior wall covering and architectural trim. See Chapter 14 for requirements for exterior wall covering and architectural trim.

    2602.2 Interior finish and trim. See Section 2604 for requirements for interior finish and trim.

    SECTION 2603—FOAM PLASTIC INSULATION

    2603.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the requirements and uses of foam plastic insulation in buildings and structures.

    2603.1.1 Spray-applied foam plastic. Single- and multiple-component spray-applied foam plastic insulation shall comply with the provisions of Section 2603 and ICC 1100.

    2603.1.2 Insulating sheathing. Foam plastic materials used as insulating sheathing shall comply with the provisions of Section 2603 and the material standards in Table 2603.1.2.

    TABLE 2603.1.2—MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR FOAM PLASTIC INSULATING SHEATHING Col2
    MATERIAL STANDARD
    Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) ASTM C578
    Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) ASTM C578
    Polyisocyanurate ASTM C1289

    2603.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and containers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the code requirements.

  • CRSC § 1.2. High relevance — show source text

    The fiber-reinforced polymer shall not exceed an aggregate total of 20 percent of the area of the specific wall to which it is attached, and single architectural elements shall not exceed 10 percent of the area of the specific wall to which it is attached, and no contiguous sets of architectural elements shall not exceed 10 percent of the area of the specific wall to which they are attached. 1.2. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall have a flame spread index of 25 or less. The flame spread index requirement shall not be required for coatings or paints having a thickness of less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) that are applied directly to the surface of the fiber-reinforced polymer. 1.3. Fireblocking complying with Section 718.2.6 shall be installed. 1.4. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall be installed directly to a noncombustible substrate or be separated from the exterior wall by one of the following materials: corrosion-resistant steel having a minimum base metal thickness of 0.016 inch (0.41 mm) at any point, aluminum having a minimum thickness of 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) or other approved noncombustible material. 2. Compliance with Section 2603.5 is not required where the fiber-reinforced polymer is installed on buildings that are 40 feet (12 190 mm) or less above grade and the following conditions are met: 2.1. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall meet the requirements of Section 1405.1.

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    PLASTIC

    2.2. Where the fire separation distance is 5 feet (1524 mm) or less, the area of the fiber-reinforced polymer shall not exceed 10 percent of the wall area. Where the fire separation distance is greater than 5 feet (1524 mm), the area of the exterior wall coverage using fiber-reinforced polymer shall not be limited. 2.3. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall have a flame spread index of 200 or less. The flame spread index requirements do not apply to coatings or paints having a thickness of less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) that are applied directly to the surface of the fiber-reinforced polymer. 2.4. Fireblocking complying with Section 718.2.6 shall be installed.

    SECTION 2614—REFLECTIVE PLASTIC CORE INSULATION

    2614.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the requirements and uses of reflective plastic core insulation in buildings and structures. Reflective plastic core insulation shall comply with the requirements of Section 2614 and of Section 2614.3 or 2614.4.

    2614.2 Identification. Packages and containers of reflective plastic core insulation delivered to the job site shall show the manufacturer’s or supplier’s name, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the code requirements.

    2614.3 Surface-burning characteristics. Reflective plastic core insulation shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. The reflective plastic core insulation shall be tested at the maximum thickness intended for use. Test specimen preparation and mounting shall be in accordance with ASTM E2599.

  • CRSC § 2612.6 High relevance — show source text

    [BS] 2612.6 Plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards. Plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s instructions.

    SECTION 2613—FIBER-REINFORCED POLYMER

    2613.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the requirements and uses of fiber-reinforced polymer in and on buildings and structures.

    2613.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and containers of fiber-reinforced polymer and their components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the code requirements.

    2613.3 Interior finishes. Fiber-reinforced polymer used as interior finishes, decorative materials or trim shall comply with Chapter 8.

    2613.3.1 Foam plastic cores. Fiber-reinforced polymer used as interior finish and that contains foam plastic cores shall comply with Chapter 8 and this chapter.

    2613.4 Light-transmitting materials. Fiber-reinforced polymer used as light-transmitting materials shall comply with Sections 2606 through 2611 as required for the specific application.

    2613.5 Exterior use. Fiber-reinforced polymer shall be permitted to be installed on the exterior walls of buildings of any type of construction where such polymers meet the requirements of Section 2603.5. Fireblocking shall be installed in accordance with Section 718.

    Exceptions:

    1. Compliance with Section 2603.5 is not required where all of the following conditions are met: 1.1. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall not exceed an aggregate total of 20 percent of the area of the specific wall to which it is attached, and single architectural elements shall not exceed 10 percent of the area of the specific wall to which it is attached, and no contiguous sets of architectural elements shall not exceed 10 percent of the area of the specific wall to which they are attached. 1.2. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall have a flame spread index of 25 or less. The flame spread index requirement shall not be required for coatings or paints having a thickness of less than 0.036 inch (0.9 mm) that are applied directly to the surface of the fiber-reinforced polymer. 1.3. Fireblocking complying with Section 718.2.6 shall be installed. 1.4. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall be installed directly to a noncombustible substrate or be separated from the exterior wall by one of the following materials: corrosion-resistant steel having a minimum base metal thickness of 0.016 inch (0.41 mm) at any point, aluminum having a minimum thickness of 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) or other approved noncombustible material.
    2. Compliance with Section 2603.5 is not required where the fiber-reinforced polymer is installed on buildings that are 40 feet (12 190 mm) or less above grade and the following conditions are met: 2.1. The fiber-reinforced polymer shall meet the requirements of Section 1405.1.

    26-12 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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    PLASTIC

  • CRSC § 2612.2 High relevance — show source text

    [BS] 2612.2 Labeling. Plastic composite deck boards and stair treads, or their packaging, shall bear a label that indicates compliance with ASTM D7032 and includes the allowable load and maximum allowable span determined in accordance with ASTM D7032. Plastic composite handrails and guards, or their packaging, shall bear a label that indicates compliance with ASTM D7032 and includes the maximum allowable span determined in accordance with ASTM D7032.

    [BF] 2612.3 Flame spread index. Plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards shall exhibit a flame spread index not exceeding 200 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 with the test specimen remaining in place during the

    test.

    Exception: Materials determined to be noncombustible in accordance with Section 703.3.

    [BS] 2612.4 Termite and decay resistance. Where required by Section 2304.12, plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards containing wood, cellulosic or any other biodegradable materials shall be termite and decay resistant as determined in accordance with ASTM D7032.

    [BS] 2612.5 Construction requirements. Plastic composites meeting the requirements of Section 2612 shall be permitted to be used as exterior deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards where combustible construction is permitted.

    [BS] 2612.5.1 Span rating. Plastic composites used as exterior deck boards shall have a span rating determined in accordance with ASTM D7032.

    [BS] 2612.6 Plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards. Plastic composite deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manufacturer’s instructions.

    SECTION 2613—FIBER-REINFORCED POLYMER

    2613.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the requirements and uses of fiber-reinforced polymer in and on buildings and structures.

    2613.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and containers of fiber-reinforced polymer and their components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an approved agency showing the manufacturer’s name, product listing, product identification and information sufficient to determine that the end use will comply with the code requirements.

    2613.3 Interior finishes. Fiber-reinforced polymer used as interior finishes, decorative materials or trim shall comply with Chapter 8.

    2613.3.1 Foam plastic cores. Fiber-reinforced polymer used as interior finish and that contains foam plastic cores shall comply with Chapter 8 and this chapter.

    2613.4 Light-transmitting materials. Fiber-reinforced polymer used as light-transmitting materials shall comply with Sections 2606 through 2611 as required for the specific application.

    2613.5 Exterior use. Fiber-reinforced polymer shall be permitted to be installed on the exterior walls of buildings of any type of construction where such polymers meet the requirements of Section 2603.5. Fireblocking shall be installed in accordance with Section 718.

    Exceptions:

    1. Compliance with Section 2603.5 is not required where all of the following conditions are met: 1.1.
  • CRSC § 2602.1 High relevance — show source text

    (c) Any representation of thermal performance which appear on any label, literature, advertising or any other writing intended for the public shall be consistent with the certification testing results and derating required by this article.

    (d) Any insulation with facings and membranes for which the flame spread exceeds 25 when tested with facings and membranes exposed to the flame during the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test must be clearly labeled with a statement that the product may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application. This subsection shall not apply to any product meeting the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code.

    Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25921, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment of subsections (a) and (c) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    INSPECTIONS

    Sec. 12-13-1558.

    After September 22, 1981, the Commission may, upon the consent of the owner or lessee, or upon securing a search warrant, have access, during normal working hours, to the premises of manufacturers, distributors and retailers of insulating material sold for installation within the state for the purpose of determining compliance with the standards promulgated pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such access shall be for the purposes of obtaining representative samples of subject insulation and inspecting records and documents pertaining to tests by approved testing labs.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    PERFORMANCE TESTS

    Sec. 12-13-1559.

    The Commission may conduct, or may contract with others to conduct, independent performance tests of representative samples of insulation sold in the state to determine compliance with standards adopted pursuant to Chapter 10.5 of the California Public Resources Code . Such tests shall form the basis for instituting enforcement proceedings.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    2025 CALIFORNIA REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE 99

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    STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL

    COSTS OF INSPECTION AND TESTING (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1560.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25926, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).

    ENFORCEMENT (RESERVED)

    Sec. 12-13-1561.

    Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.

    Reference: Section 25931, Public Resources Code.

    HISTORY:

    1. Repealer filed 6-26-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 26).

    RELEASE OF INFORMATION

Frequently asked questions

Who must approve the statement that appears on insulation packages?

Either a statement/design approved by the Executive Director or a manufacturer identification plus a statement that the material meets California standards are acceptable under § 12-13-1557(b).

Can I use the bill of lading instead of labels on every carton?

Only in limited situations: a bill‑of‑lading statement satisfies the requirement when the product is shipped in bulk, or the container is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user — see § 12-13-1557(b)(3).

If a facing raises flame spread above 25, what must I do?

You must clearly label the product that it “may be highly combustible if used in an exposed application” when the facing/membrane produces flame spread > 25 under ANSI/ASTM E84‑79; exceptions for certain UBC‑compliant products exist. § 12-13-1557(d)

Must thermal performance claims match test results?

Yes. Any public representation of thermal performance must be consistent with the certification test results and the derating required by the article. § 12-13-1557(c)

What happens if the package has no visible Commission‑approved statement?

Selling insulation without the required visible Commission‑approved statement violates § 12-13-1557(a) and is subject to Commission inspection and enforcement actions described elsewhere in the article.

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California Referenced Standards Code