CRC · California Residential Code

What is the purpose of the CRC and what common exceptions exist?

The CRC sets statewide minimum safety, health and fire‑protection standards for detached one‑ and two‑family homes and townhouses up to three stories (purpose in § R101.3). A narrow set of small occupancies (e.g., lodging houses or day care with **five or fewer** people) may be built under the CRC only if an **automatic sprinkler system** meeting **§ R309** is installed (see **§ R101.2 Exception**).

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The California Residential Code (CRC) establishes the minimum requirements to protect safety, health and general welfare for one- and two‑family dwellings and townhouses (e.g., structural strength, means of egress, sanitation, light/ventilation, energy and fire safety). This purpose is stated in § R101.3.

The CRC applies to detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane and their accessory structures. The limits of that scope and the specific items that may be treated differently are set out in § R101.2 and its Exception.

The CRC sets minimum, statewide rules for typically sized one‑ and two‑family homes and townhouses; limited small uses may be allowed under the Residential Code only when the specific Exception in § R101.2 is met.

Requirements in detail

Scope (who/what is covered)

  • Applies to construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of covered dwellings and accessory structures. See § R101.2.
  • Key built-form threshold: townhouses and dwellings not more than three stories above grade plane. This dimension controls whether CRC applies. § R101.2.

Purpose elements (what the code tries to achieve)

  • Minimum levels of: safety, health, general welfare, affordability, structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards — and reasonable safety to firefighters and emergency responders. See § R101.3.

Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference table)

Decision factor Value / threshold Where to check Code Reference
Building type covered Detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings; townhouses Scope language § R101.2
Maximum stories 3 stories above grade plane Scope language § R101.2
Allowed special uses under exception Small live/work, lodging houses, care/day care for ≤ 5 persons/guestrooms R101.2 Exception list § R101.2 Exception
Sprinkler requirement for exceptions Automatic sprinkler system complying with § R309 (required to use the Exception) R101.2 Exception § R101.2 Exception
Applicability of appendices Appendices apply only if specifically adopted R101.2.1 § R101.2.1

Exceptions & special cases

The code allows a limited set of additional occupancies to be constructed under the Residential Code — but only when protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with § R309. These are listed in the § R101.2 Exception and include:

  • Live/work units located in townhouses that comply with Section 508.5 of the California Building Code (when also sprinklered). § R101.2 Exception, Item 1.
  • Owner‑occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms (must be sprinklered). § R101.2 Exception, Item 2.
  • A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving custodial care within a dwelling unit (must be sprinklered). § R101.2 Exception, Item 3.
  • A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving medical care within a dwelling unit (must be sprinklered). § R101.2 Exception, Item 4.
  • A day care facility for five or fewer persons of any age receiving care within a dwelling unit (must be sprinklered). § R101.2 Exception, Item 5.

Notes on use:

  • The sprinkler system requirement is not optional for these Exceptions; the Exception text conditions the allowance on compliance with § R309. § R101.2 Exception.
  • Appendices are not part of the mandatory CRC unless a jurisdiction adopts them specifically — see § R101.2.1.

Common mistakes

  • Treating the CRC as optional for buildings over the threshold: owners often assume CRC rules are voluntary; in fact the CRC is mandatory for covered dwellings within its scope — check § R101.2.
  • Missing the three‑story limit: designing a four‑story townhouse as “Residential Code” work when the building is above 3 stories above grade plane is incorrect — that building falls outside § R101.2 scope.
  • Assuming the Exception waives fire protection: the Exception permits certain uses only if an automatic sprinkler system complying with § R309 is provided. Do not omit sprinkler design when relying on the Exception. § R101.2 Exception.
  • Relying on appendices without local adoption: some designers apply Appendix requirements automatically — appendices only apply when specifically adopted (see § R101.2.1).

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: You plan a townhouse project with a unit that will include an owner‑occupied lodging house with 4 guestrooms.

Step 1 — Scope check: The project is a townhouse and is 3 stories high, so it falls within the CRC scope if no other disqualifying factor exists. § R101.2.

Step 2 — Exception eligibility: An owner‑occupied lodging house with 4 guestrooms is within the Exception threshold (five or fewer guestrooms). § R101.2 Exception, Item 2.

Step 3 — Condition to use Exception: Provide an automatic sprinkler system complying with § R309 for the unit to lawfully use the Residential Code allowances under the Exception. § R101.2 Exception.

Result: If you design and install the required § R309 sprinkler system and the unit meets the other code requirements, the lodging house can be built under the Residential Code per the Exception. Do not omit the sprinkler and expect the Exception to apply.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § R101.2 — Scope and the Exception list that allows specified small occupancies under sprinklers.
  • § R101.3 — Purpose statement describing the minimum requirements and objectives of the CRC.
  • § R101.2.1 — Appendices: apply only if specifically adopted.

Code references

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

  • CRC § 1-16 Medium relevance — show source text

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    DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    User notes:

    About this chapter: Chapter 1 Division II establishes the limits of applicability of this code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. Chapter 1 Division II is in two parts: Part 1—Scope and Application (Sections R101–R102) and Part 2—Administration and Enforcement (Sections R103–R114). Section R101 identifies which buildings and structures come under its purview and references other I-Codes as applicable. Standards and codes are scoped to the extent referenced (see Section R102.4).

    The one- and two-family dwelling code is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document, and it cannot be effective without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the building official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.

    Division II is not adopted by the Department of Housing and Community Development except where specifically indicated. Note: Specific sections of Chapter 1, Division II adopted by the State Fire Marshal will be indicated in the Matrix Adoption Table.

    PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION

    SECTION R101—SCOPE AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

    R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Residential Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings of [ NAME OF JURISDICTION ], and shall be cited as such and will be referred to herein as “this code.”

    R101.2 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and their accessory structures not more than three stories above grade plane in height.

    Exception: The following shall be permitted to be constructed in accordance with this code where provided with an automatic sprinkler system complying with Section R309 :

    1. Live/work units located in townhouses and complying with the requirements of Section 508.5 of the California Building Code.

    2. Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms.

    3. A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving custodial care within a dwelling unit.

    4. A care facility with five or fewer persons receiving medical care within a dwelling unit.

    5. A day care facility for five or fewer persons of any age receiving care within a dwelling unit.

    R101.2.1 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not apply unless specifically adopted.

    R101.3 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish minimum requirements to provide a reasonable level of safety, health and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards and to provide a reasonable level of safety to firefighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

    SECTION R102—APPLICABILITY

    R102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern.

  • CRC § 15.9 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: A parapet is not required in the preceding two cases where the roof covering complies with a minimum Class C rating as tested in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL 790 and the roof deck or sheathing is of noncombustible materials or fire-retardant-treated wood for a distance of 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the wall or walls, or one layer of [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board is installed directly beneath the roof deck or sheathing, supported by not less than nominal 2-inch (51 mm) ledgers attached to the sides of the roof framing members, for a distance of not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the wall or walls and any openings or penetrations in the roof deck are not within 4 feet (1219 mm) of the common walls. Fire-retardant-treated wood shall meet the requirements of Sections R302.15 and R803.2.1.2. 3. A parapet is not required where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are at different elevations and the higher roof deck is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof deck. The common wall construction from the lower roof deck to the underside of the higher roof deck shall have not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance rating. The wall shall be rated for exposure from both sides. Openings shall not be permitted in the wall.

    R302.2.5 Parapet construction. Parapets shall have the same fire-resistance rating as that required for the supporting wall or walls. On any side adjacent to a roof surface, the parapet shall have noncombustible faces for the uppermost 18 inches (457 mm), to include counterflashing and coping materials. Where the roof slopes toward a parapet at slopes greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7-percent slope), the parapet shall extend to the same height as any portion of the roof within a distance of 3 feet (914 mm), and the height shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm).

    R302.2.6 Structural independence. Each townhouse unit shall be structurally independent.

    Exceptions:

    1. Foundations supporting exterior walls or common walls.
    2. Structural roof and wall sheathing from each unit fastened to the common wall framing.
    3. Nonstructural wall and roof coverings.
    4. Flashing at termination of roof covering over common wall.
    5. Townhouse units separated by a common wall as provided in Section R302.2.2, Item 1 or 2.
    6. Townhouse units protected by an automatic sprinkler system complying with Section R309 or NFPA 13D.

    R302.3 Two-family dwellings. Dwelling units in two-family dwellings shall be separated from each other in accordance with Sections 302.3.1 through 302.3.5, regardless of whether a lot line exists between two dwelling units.

    R302.3.1 Dwelling unit separation. The two dwelling units shall be separated by fire-resistance rated assemblies that are vertical, horizontal, or a combination thereof.

  • CRC § 1.1.9 Medium relevance — show source text

    1.1.9 Effective date of this code. Only those standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission that are effective at the time an application for building permit is submitted shall apply to the plans and specifications for, and to the construction performed under, that permit. For the effective dates of the provisions contained in this code, see the History Note page of this code.

    Exceptions: (1.) (HCD 1 & HCD 2) Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12. (2.) (HCD 1 & HCD 2) Plans approved by the Department of Housing and Community Development or a Department-approved design approval agency for factory-built housing as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 19971. Approved plans, pursu- ant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, Article 3, Section 3048 remain valid for a period of 36 months from the date of plan approval.

    1.1.10 Availability of codes. At least one complete copy each of Titles 8, 19, 20, 24 and 25 with all revisions shall be maintained in the office of the building official responsible for the administration and enforcement of this code. Each state department concerned and each city, county, or city and county shall have an up-to-date copy of the code available for public inspection. See Health and Safety Code Section 18942(e) (1) and (2).

    1.1.11 Format. This part fundamentally adopts the International Residential Code by reference on a chapter-by-chapter basis. When a specific chapter of the International Residential Code is not printed in the code and is marked “Reserved,” such chapter of the Interna- tional Residential Code is not adopted as a portion of this code. When a specific chapter of the International Residential Code is marked “Not adopted by the State of California” but appears in the code, it may be available for adoption by local ordinance.

    Note: Matrix Adoption Tables at the front of each chapter may aid the code user in determining which chapter or sections within a chap- ter are applicable to buildings under the authority of a specific state agency, but they are not to be considered regulatory.

    1.1.12 Validity. If any chapter, section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this code is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, contrary to statute, exceeding the authority of the state as stipulated by statutes or otherwise inoperative, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portion of this code.

    SECTION 1.2—RESERVED

    SECTION 1.3—RESERVED

    SECTION 1.4—RESERVED

    SECTION 1.5—RESERVED

    SECTION 1.6—RESERVED

    SECTION 1.7—RESERVED

    SECTION 1.8—DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (HCD)

    1.8.1 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements necessary to protect the health, safety and general welfare of the occupants and the public by governing accessibility, erection, construction, reconstruction, enlargement, conversion, alteration, repair, moving, removal, demolition, occupancy, use, height, court, area, sanitation, ventilation, maintenance and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment.

  • CRC § 1.8.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1.8.4—PERMITS, FEES, APPLICATIONS AND INSPECTIONS

    1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, recon- struction, installation, moving or alteration of any building or structure.

    Exceptions: 1. Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Scope and Application, Division II, Administration, Section R105.2. 2. Changes, alterations or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety or accessibility as determined by the enforcing agency. 3. Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.

    Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of other provisions of law or this code.

    1.8.4.2 Fees. Subject to other provisions of law, the governing body of any city, county, or city and county may prescribe fees to defray the cost of enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. The amount of the fees shall not exceed the amount reasonably necessary to administer or process permits, certificates, forms or other documents, or to defray the costs of enforcement. For additional information, see State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, Section 17951 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 3, commencing with Section 6.

    1.8.4.3 Plan review and time limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan checking, prohibition of exces- sive delays and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan checking are set forth in State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.

    1.8.4.3.1 Retention of plans. The building department of every city, county or city and county shall maintain an official copy, micro- film, electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height.

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    DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

    2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 3. Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 4. Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except a steel frame or concrete building.

    All plans for common interest developments as defined in Section 4100 of the California Civil Code shall be retained. For additional information regarding plan retention and reproduction of plans by an enforcing agency, see Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 through 19852.

  • CRC § 2.1. Medium relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. The total area of ventilation openings shall be permitted to be reduced to [1] / 1,500 of the under-floor area where the ground surface is covered with an approved Class I vapor retarder material.
    2. Where the ground surface is covered with an approved Class 1 vapor retarder material, ventilation openings are not required to be within 3 feet (915 mm) of each external corner of the under-floor space provided that the openings are placed to provide cross ventilation of the space.

    R408.3 Unvented crawl space. For unvented under-floor spaces, the following items shall be provided:

    1. Exposed earth shall be covered with a continuous Class I vapor retarder. Joints of the vapor retarder shall overlap by 6 inches (152 mm) and shall be sealed or taped. The edges of the vapor retarder shall extend not less than 6 inches (152 mm) up the stem wall and shall be attached and sealed to the stem wall or insulation.
    2. One of the following shall be provided for the under-floor space: 2.1. Continuously operated mechanical exhaust ventilation at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per minute (0.47 L/s) for each 50 square feet (4.7 m [2] ) of crawl space floor area, including an air pathway to the common area (such as a duct or transfer grille). 2.2. Conditioned air supply sized to deliver at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per minute (0.47 L/s) for each 50 square feet (4.7 m [2] ) of under-floor area, including a return air pathway to the common area (such as a duct or transfer grille). 2.3. Plenum in existing structures complying with the California Mechanical Code, if under-floor space is used as a plenum. 2.4. Dehumidification sized in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.

    R408.4 Access. Access shall be provided to all under-floor spaces. Access openings through the floor shall be not smaller than 18 inches by 24 inches (457 mm by 610 mm). Openings through a perimeter wall shall be not less than 16 inches by 24 inches (407 mm by 610 mm). Where any portion of the through-wall access is below grade, an areaway not less than 16 inches by 24 inches (407 mm by 610 mm) shall be provided. The bottom of the areaway shall be below the threshold of the access opening. Through wall access openings shall not be located under a door to the residence. See California Mechanical Code for access requirements where mechanical equipment is located under floors.

    R408.5 Removal of debris. The under-floor grade shall be cleaned of all vegetation and organic material. Wood forms used for placing concrete shall be removed before a building is occupied or used for any purpose. Construction materials shall be removed before a building is occupied or used for any purpose.

    R408.6 Finished grade. The finished grade of under-floor surface shall be permitted to be located at the bottom of the footings; however, where there is evidence that the groundwater table can rise to within 6 inches (152 mm) of the finished floor at the building perimeter or where there is evidence that the surface water does not readily drain from the building site, the grade in the under-floor space shall be as high as the outside finished grade, unless an approved drainage system is provided.

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    FOUNDATIONS

  • CRC § 1005.7.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    1005.7.1 Doors. Doors, when fully opened, shall not reduce the required width by more than 7 inches (178 mm). Doors in any position shall not reduce the required width by more than one-half.

    Exceptions:

    1. In other than Group I-2 occupancies, surface-mounted latch release hardware shall be exempt from inclusion in the 7inch maximum (178 mm) encroachment where both of the following conditions exist: 1.1. The hardware is mounted to the side of the door facing away from the adjacent wall where the door is in the open position. 1.2. The hardware is mounted not less than 34 inches (865 mm) nor more than 48 inches (1219 mm) above the finished floor.

    2. The restrictions on door swing shall not apply to doors within individual dwelling units and sleeping units of Group R-2 occupancies and dwelling units of Group R-3 occupancies.

    1005.7.2 Other projections. Handrail projections shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section 1014.9. Other nonstructural projections such as trim and similar decorative features shall be permitted to project into the required width not more than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) on each side.

    1005.7.3 Protruding objects. Protruding objects shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1003.3.

    SECTION 1006—NUMBER OF EXITS AND EXIT ACCESS DOORWAYS

    1006.1 General. The number of exits or exit access doorways required within the means of egress system shall comply with the provisions of Section 1006.2 for spaces, including mezzanines, and Section 1006.3 for stories or occupiable roofs.

    1006.2 Egress from spaces. Rooms, areas or spaces, including mezzanines, within a story or basement shall be provided with the number of exits or access to exits in accordance with this section.

    1006.2.1 Egress based on occupant load and common path of egress travel distance. Two exits or exit access doorways from any space shall be provided where the design occupant load or the common path of egress travel distance exceeds the values listed in Table 1006.2.1. The cumulative occupant load from adjacent rooms, areas or spaces shall be determined in accordance with Section 1004.2.

    Exceptions:

    1. The number of exits from foyers, lobbies, vestibules or similar spaces need not be based on cumulative occupant loads for areas discharging through such spaces, but the capacity of the exits from such spaces shall be based on applicable cumulative occupant loads.
    2. Rooms and care suites in Group I-2 occupancies complying with Section 407.4.
    3. Unoccupied mechanical rooms and penthouses are not required to comply with the common path of egress travel distance measurement.

    4. In detention and correctional facilities and holding cells, such as are found in courthouse buildings, when the occupant load is more than 20 see Section 408.3.11.

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    MEANS OF EGRESS

    |TABLE 1006.2.

  • CRC § 1.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    1.5.2_||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R109.1.5.3||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R109.1.6|||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |R109.1.6.1||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R109.1.6.2||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R109.2 - R109.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |R110 - R110.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |R111 - R111.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |R113.1 - R113.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |R114.1 - R114.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: †

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    PART I—ADMINISTRATIVE

    1 ADMINISTRATION

    DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

    SECTION 1.1—GENERAL

    1.1.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the California Residential Code, may be cited as such and will be referred to herein as “this code.” The California Residential Code is Part 2.5 of thirteen parts of the official compilation and publication of the adoption, amendment and repeal of building regulations to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards Code. This part incorporates by adoption the 2024 International Residential Code of the International Code Council with necessary California amendments.

    1.1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare through structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation and energy conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

    1.1.3 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equip- ment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every detached one- and two-family dwelling and townhouse not more than three stories above grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and structures accessory thereto throughout the State of California.

    Exceptions: 1. Live/work units complying with the requirements of Section 508.5 of the California Building Code shall be permitted to be constructed as one- and two-family dwellings or townhouses in accordance with this code, as applicable. Fire suppression required by Section 508.5.7 of the California Building Code when constructed under the California Residential Code for one- and two-family dwellings shall conform to Section 903.3.1.3 of the California Building Code. 2. Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer guestrooms shall be permitted to be constructed in accordance with the California Residential Code for one- and two-family dwellings when equipped with a fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section R309.

    1.1.3.1 Classification. Structures or portions of structures shall be classified with respect to occupancy in one or more of the groups _listed in Chapter 3 of the California Building Code.

  • CRC § 11B-233.3.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: In residential dwelling units complying with Section 11B-233.3.1.1, maneuvering space in front of the water closet shall be a minimum 60 inches (1524 mm) wide and 36 inches (914 mm) deep.

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    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    FIGURE 11B -604.3.1—SIZE OF CLEARANCE AT WATER CLOSETS

    11B- 604.3.2 Overlap. The required clearance around the water closet shall be permitted to overlap the water closet, associated grab bars, dispensers, sanitary napkin disposal units, coat hooks, shelves, accessible routes, clear floor space and clearances required at other fixtures and the turning space. No other fixtures or obstructions shall be located within the required water closet clearance.

    Exception: In residential dwelling units, a lavatory complying with Section 11B- 606 shall be permitted on the rear wall 26 inches (660 mm) minimum from the water closet centerline to allow for the installation of a grab bar where the clearance at the water closet is 66 inches ( 1676 mm) minimum measured perpendicular from the rear wall.

    FIGURE 11B -604.3.2 (EXCEPTION)—OVERLAP OF WATER CLOSET CLEARANCE IN RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNITS

    11B- 604.4 Seats. The seat height of a water closet above the finish floor shall be 17 inches ( 432 mm) minimum and 19 inches ( 483 mm) maximum measured to the top of the seat. Seats shall not be sprung to return to a lifted position. Seats shall be 2 inches (51 mm) high maximum.

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

    2. In residential dwelling units, the height of water closets shall be permitted to be 15 inches ( 381 mm) minimum and 19 inches ( 483 mm) maximum above the finish floor measured to the top of the seat.

    3. A 3-inch (76 mm) high seat shall be permitted only in alterations where the existing fixture is less than 15 inches (381 mm) high.

    11B- 604.5 Grab bars. Grab bars for water closets shall comply with Section 11B- 609. Grab bars shall be provided on the side wall closest to the water closet and on the rear wall. Where separate grab bars are required on adjacent walls at a common mounting height, an L-shaped grab bar meeting the dimensional requirements of Sections 11B-604.5.1 and 11B-604.5.2 shall be permitted.

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

    2. In residential dwelling units, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in toilet or bathrooms provided that reinforcement has been installed in walls and located so as to permit the installation of grab bars complying with Section 11B- 604.5.

    3. In detention or correction facilities, grab bars shall not be required to be installed in housing or holding cells that are specially designed without protrusions for purposes of suicide prevention.

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  • CRC § 206.2.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: An accessible route shall not be required between accessible buildings, accessible facilities, accessible elements and accessible spaces if the only means of access between them is a vehicular way not providing pedestrian access.

    11B- 206.2.3 Multistory buildings and facilities. At least one accessible route shall connect each story and mezzanine in multistory buildings and facilities.

    Exceptions:

    1. The following types of privately funded multi-story buildings do not require a ramp or elevator above and below the first floor:

    1.1. Multistoried office buildings (other than the professional office of a health care provider) and passenger vehicle service stations less than three stories high or less than 3,000 square feet (279 m [2] ) per story. 1.2. Any other privately funded multistoried building that is not a shopping center, shopping mall or the profes- sional office of a health care provider or a terminal, depot or other station used for specified public transportation or an airport passenger terminal and that is less than three stories high or less than 3,000 square feet (279 m [2] ) per story if a reasonable portion of all facilities and accommodations normally sought and used by the public in such a building are accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities.

    2. Reserved.

    1. In detention and correctional facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories where cells with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B- 807.2, all common use areas serving cells with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B- 807.2, and all public use areas are on an accessible route.
    2. In residential facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories where residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4, residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Sections 11B- 809.6 through 11B- 809.12, and public use areas serving residential dwelling units are on an accessible route.
    3. Within multistory transient lodging guest rooms with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B- 806.2, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories provided that spaces complying with Section 11B- 806.2 are on an accessible route and sleeping accommodations for two persons minimum are provided on a story served by an accessible route.

    11B-12 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    1. In air traffic control towers, an accessible route shall not be required to serve the cab and the equipment areas on the floor immediately below the cab.

    2. Reserved.

  • CRC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION BO104—REPAIRS

    BO104.1 General. Repairs shall comply with the applicable provisions of this code for new construction or as permitted by this appendix.

    BO104.2 Materials. Materials used during repairs shall comply with this section.

    BO104.2.1 New and replacement materials. Except as otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials permitted by this code for new construction shall be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs and alterations, provided that unsafe conditions are not created. Hazardous materials shall not be used where this code would not permit their use in buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location.

    BO104.2.2 Existing materials. Materials already in use in a building in compliance with requirements or approvals in effect at the time of their erection or installation shall be permitted to remain in use unless determined by the building official to be unsafe.

    BO104.2.3 Plumbing materials and supplies. The following plumbing materials and supplies shall not be used:

    1. All-purpose solvent cement, unless listed for the specific application.
    2. Flexible traps and tailpieces, unless listed for the specific application.
    3. Solder having more than 0.2-percent lead in the repair of potable water systems.

    BO104.3 Water closets. Where any water closet is replaced with a newly manufactured water closet, the replacement water closet shall comply with the requirements of Section P2903.2.

    BO104.4 Electrical. Repair or replacement of existing electrical wiring and equipment shall comply with Chapters 34 through 43.

    BO104.5 Structural. Repaired structural elements and systems shall comply with Section R102.6.1 and the structural provisions of this appendix.

    SECTION BO105—ALTERATIONS

    BO105.1 General. Alterations to existing buildings shall comply with the provisions of this code for new construction, except as permitted by Sections BO105.2 through BO105.8. Engineered design in accordance with Section R301.1.3 shall be permitted to meet the requirements of this section. Alterations shall not cause the existing building to become less compliant with the provisions of this code for new construction than the existing building was prior to the work.

    BO105.2 Newly constructed elements. Newly constructed elements, components and systems shall comply with the requirements of this code.

    Exceptions:

    1. Added openable windows are not required to comply with the light and ventilation requirements of Section R325.
    2. Newly installed electrical equipment shall comply with the requirements of Section BO105.5.

    BO105.3 Nonconformities. The work shall not increase the extent of noncompliance or create nonconformity to those requirements that did not previously exist.

    BO105.4 Structural. Altered structural elements and systems shall comply with Section R102.6.1 and the structural provisions of this appendix.

    BO105.4.1 Decreased structural capacity. Where an alteration causes a decrease in capacity in any structural component, that structural component shall be shown to comply or shall be altered to comply with the applicable provisions of Chapters 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8.

    BO105.4.2 Increased design loads. Where an alteration causes an increase in loads as described in this section, the existing structural components that support the increased load, including the foundation, shall be shown to comply or shall be altered to comply with the applicable provisions of Chapters 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8. Existing structural components that do not provide support for the increased loads shall not be required to comply with this section.

  • CRC § 2.2. Medium relevance — show source text

    2.2. Loss of power or circuit continuity to the electronic monitoring device shall initiate a trouble signal. 2.3. The extinguishers shall be installed inside of a building or cabinet in a noncorrosive environment. 2.4. Electronic monitoring devices and supervisory circuits shall be tested every 3 years when extinguisher maintenance is performed. 2.5. A written log of required hydrostatic test dates for extinguishers shall be maintained by the owner to verify that hydrostatic tests are conducted at the frequency required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, Chapter 3. 3. In Group I-3, and in mental health areas of Group I-2, portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted to be located at staff locations.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §565.1(a) through (c)] Classification of Hazards.

    (a) Light (Low) Hazard. Locations where the total amounts of Class A combustible materials, including furnishings, decorations and contents, is of minor quantity. These shall include buildings or rooms occupied as offices, classrooms, churches, assembly halls, etc. This classification anticipates that the majority of the contents are either noncombustible or so arranged that a fire is not likely to spread rapidly. Small amounts of Class B flammables used for duplicating machines, art departments, etc., are included provided that they are kept in closed containers and safely stored.

    (b) Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard. Locations where the total amounts of Class A combustibles and Class B flammables are present in greater amounts than expected under Light (Low) Hazard occupancies. These occupancies could consist of offices, classrooms, mercantile shops and allied storage, light manufacturing, research operations, auto showrooms, parking garages, workshop or support service areas of Light (Low) Hazard occupancies, and warehouses containing Class I or Class II commodities.

    (c) Extra (High) Hazard. Locations where the total amount of Class A combustibles and Class B flammables are present, in storage, production use, and/or finished product over and above those expected and classed as Ordinary (Moderate) Hazards. These occupan- cies could consist of woodworking, vehicle repair, aircraft and boat servicing, individual product display showrooms, product convention center displays, storage and manufacturing processes such as painting, dipping, coating, including flammable liquid handling. Also, included in warehousing of, or in-process storage of other Class I and Class II commodities.

    [California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §565.2(a) through (e)] Selection by Hazard.

    (a) Extinguishers shall be selected for the specific class or classes of hazards to be protected in accordance with the following subdivi- sions (b), (c), (d) and (e).

    (b) Extinguishers for protecting Class A hazards shall be selected from the following: Water-type, halogenated agent types, multipur- pose dry chemical and wet chemical type.

    (c) Extinguishers for protection of Class B hazards shall be selected from the following: carbon dioxide, dry chemical types, haloge- nated agent types and water-type and water chemical extinguishers rated for Class B hazards.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 9-33

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

    FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS

  • CRC § 809.2 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. In residential facilities, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories where residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4, residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Sections 11B-809.6 through 11B-809.12, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with mobility features required to comply with Sections 11B- 809.2 through 11B- 809.4, all common use areas serving residential dwelling units with adaptable features complying with Sections 11B- 809.6 through 11B- 809.12, and public use areas serving residential dwelling units are on an accessible route.
    2. Within multistory transient lodging guest rooms with mobility features required to comply with Section 11B- 806.2, an accessible route shall not be required to connect stories provided that spaces complying with Section 11B- 806.2 are on an accessible route and sleeping accommodations for two persons minimum are provided on a story served by an accessible route.

    11B-12 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    1. In air traffic control towers, an accessible route shall not be required to serve the cab and the equipment areas on the floor immediately below the cab.

    2. Reserved.

    11B- 206.2.3.1 Stairs and escalators in existing buildings. In alterations and additions, where an escalator or stair is provided where none existed previously and major structural modifications are necessary for the installation, an accessible route shall be provided between the levels served by the escalator or stair unless exempted by Section 11B- 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

    11B-206.2.3.2 Distance to elevators. In new construction of buildings where elevators are required by Section 11B-206.2.3, and which exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ) on any floor, an accessible means of vertical access via ramp, elevator or lift shall be provided within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of travel of each stair and each escalator. In existing buildings that exceed 10,000 square feet (929 m [2] ) on any floor and in which elevators are required by Section 11B-206.2.3, whenever a newly constructed means of vertical access is provided via stairs or an escalator, an accessible means of vertical access via ramp, elevator or lift shall be provided within 200 feet (60,960 mm) of travel of each new stair or escalator.

    Exception: Stairs used solely for emergency egress.

    11B- 206.2.4 Spaces and elements. At least one accessible route shall connect accessible building or facility entrances with all accessible spaces and elements within the building or facility, including mezzanines, which are otherwise connected by a circulation path unless exempted by Section 11B- 206.2.3 Exceptions 1 through 7.

    Exceptions:

    1. Reserved.

Frequently asked questions

What does “three stories above grade plane” mean for coverage?

It is the vertical limit used in § R101.2 to decide whether the CRC applies. If a dwelling or townhouse exceeds three stories above grade plane, it is not within the standard CRC scope. § R101.2.

Can I convert a single‑family home into a day care for 6 children under the CRC?

No. The Exception in § R101.2 permits a day care only for five or fewer persons when provided in a dwelling unit and protected by a sprinkler system. Six children exceed that threshold. § R101.2 Exception, Item 5.

Are appendices part of the code I must follow?

Only if your jurisdiction or the adopting authority specifically adopts the appendix. See § R101.2.1.

If I rely on an Exception, do I still need building permits?

Yes. Work under the CRC Exception still requires permits and compliance with the adopted code provisions (including the required sprinkler system). See the CRC administration and permit provisions referenced under Chapter 1 (scope and administration) and § R101.2.

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