CRC · California Residential Code
Building Planning
Chapter 3 (Building Planning) of the CRC collects the early-design requirements—site, loads, means of egress, alarms, room sizes, light/ventilation and flood/structural considerations—that set the mandatory constraints for residential projects.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
Chapter 3 of the California Residential Code (CRC) sets the planning-level requirements that shape the safety, habitability and basic structural design of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. It collects the rules for minimum room sizes and ceiling heights, light, ventilation and sanitation, fire- and fall-protection features, means of egress, and environmental/load design (snow, wind, seismic, flood and solar considerations) that apply at the earliest stages of design and permit review .
Key provisions are organized by numeric sections—starting with site and design criteria in § R301, through life-safety items such as carbon-monoxide and smoke alarm requirements at § R311, and habitability rules for light, ventilation and heating in § R325—so you can find the planning requirements that most affect early design decisions and code compliance .
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
It is important to understand that the IRC contains coverage for what is conventional and common in residential construction practice. While the IRC will provide all of the needed coverage for most residential construction, it might not address construction practices and systems that are atypical or rarely encountered in the industry. Therefore, the IRC contains several references to other codes either as an alternative to the provisions of the IRC or where the IRC lacks coverage for a particular type of structure, design, system, appliance or method of construction. In other words, the IRC is meant to be all inclusive for typical residential construction and it relies on other codes only where alternatives are desired or where the code lacks coverage for the uncommon aspect of residential construction. Of course, the IRC constantly evolves to address new technologies and construction practices that were once uncommon, but are now common.
The IRC is unique in that much of it, including Chapters 3 through 9 and Chapters 34 through 43, is presented in an ordered format that is consistent with the normal progression of construction, starting with the design phase and continuing through the final trimout phase. This is consistent with the “cookbook” philosophy of the IRC.
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE xiii
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Arrangement and Format of the 2025 CRC
The CRC is divided into nine main parts, specifically: Part I—Administrative, Part II—Definitions, Part III—Building Planning and Construction, Part IV—Energy Conservation, Part V—Mechanical, Part VI—Fuel Gas, Part VII—Plumbing, Part VIII—Electrical and Part IX—Referenced Standards. Parts IV through VIII of IRC are not adopted in California and replaced with references to appropriate parts of Title 24. The following provides a brief description of the content of each chapter and appendix of the CRC:
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
Chapter 3 Building Planning.
Chapter 3 provides guidelines for a minimum level of structural integrity, life safety, fire safety and livability for inhabitants of dwelling units regulated by this code. Chapter 3 is a compilation of the code requirements specific to the building planning sector of the design and construction process. This chapter sets forth code requirements dealing with light, ventilation, sanitation, minimum room size, ceiling height and environmental comfort. Chapter 3 establishes life-safety provisions including limitations on glazing used in hazardous areas, specifications on stairways, use of guards at elevated surfaces, window and fall protection, and rules for means of egress. Snow, wind and seismic design live and dead loads and flood-resistant construction, as well as solar energy systems are addressed in this chapter.
Chapter 4 Foundations.
CRC § 1.10.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Chapter 5A Prescriptive Compliance Method.
Chapter 5A provides details for the prescriptive compliance method for alteration, addition and change of occupancy of existing build- ings and structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
Chapter 6 Classification of Work.
Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Work Area Method and defines the different classifications of work including alterations, change of occupancy, additions and historic buildings. Detailed requirements for all of these are given in subsequent Chapters 7 through 11.
Chapter 7 Alterations—Level 1.
Chapter 7 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 1 alterations as described in Section 602, which includes replacement or covering of existing materials, elements, equipment or fixtures using new materials for the same purpose. This chapter is distinguished from Chapters 8 and 9 by only involving replacement of building components with new components with no reconfiguration of space.
Chapter 8 Alterations—Level 2.
A Level 2 alteration is an alteration involving space reconfiguration that could be up to and including 50 percent of the area of the building or addition of a new building system. Level 2 alterations also include the extension or addition of any system or equipment. The purpose of Chapter 8 is to provide detailed requirements and provisions to identify the required improvements in the existing building elements, means of egress, fire protection, structural systems, energy efficiency, and other building systems include electrical, mechanical and plumbing when a building is being altered.
Chapter 9 Alterations—Level 3.
Chapter 9 provides the technical requirements for those existing buildings that undergo Level 3 alterations. Level 3 alterations are those involving alterations that cover 50 percent of the aggregate area of the building. Under certain situations, this chapter also intends to improve the safety of certain building features beyond the work area and in other parts of the building where no alteration work might be taking place.
Chapter 10 Change of Occupancy.
The purpose of Chapter 10 is to address existing buildings that are subject to a change of occupancy. This chapter is an assembly of requirements to upgrade safety without having to comply fully as a new building. A change of occupancy classification is considered a change of occupancy, however, it will involve a higher level of regulation since the use of the building has made a more significant change.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE xiii
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Chapter 11 Additions.
Chapter 11 provides the requirements for additions, which are considered new construction. The requirements focus on safely integrating the addition with the existing building. This includes issues such as limiting the overall height and area of the building where the addition is not separated by a fire wall.
Chapter 12 Historic Buildings —Reserved
Chapter 12 is not adopted by the State of California. Historic buildings and structures shall comply with Part 8, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
Chapter 13 Performance Compliance Methods.
Chapter 13 allows for existing buildings to be evaluated to show that alterations or a change of occupancy, while not meeting new construction requirements, will provide a level of safety to demonstrate compliance. Provisions are based on a numerical scoring system involving 21 safety parameters where, when evaluated, such buildings must meet a minimum overall safety score.
CRC § 0.099 Medium relevance — show source text
c, d, e Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 MAXIMUM DESIGN
PRESSURE
(+ or - psf)MINIMUM
PANEL SPAN
RATINGMINIMUM PANEL
PERFORMANCE
CATEGORYNAIL TYPE
AND SIZEFASTENERa SPACINGe ALONG
EDGES AND INTERMEDIATE SUPPORTS
(inches)FASTENERa SPACINGe ALONG
EDGES AND INTERMEDIATE SUPPORTS
(inches)MAXIMUM DESIGN
PRESSURE
(+ or - psf)MINIMUM
PANEL SPAN
RATINGMINIMUM PANEL
PERFORMANCE
CATEGORYNAIL TYPE
AND SIZEGalvanized Steel Stainless Steel 30 24/0 3/8 6d box
(2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)6f 4 40 24/0 3/8 6d box
(2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)6 4 50 24/0 3/8 6d box
(2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)4 4 50 24/0 3/8 8d common
(21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)6 6 60 24/0 3/8 6d box
(2 × 0.099 × 0.266 head diameter)4 3 60 24/0 3/8 8d common
(21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)6 4 70 24/16 7/16 8d common
(21/2× 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)4 4 70 24/16 7/16 10d box
(3 × 0.128 × 0.312 head diameter)6 4 80 24/16 7/16 8d common
(21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)4 4 80 24/16 7/16 10d box
(3 × 0.128 × 0.312 head diameter)6 4 90 32/16 15/32 8d common
(21/2 × 0.131 × 0.281 head diameter)4 3 90 32/16 15/32 10d box
(3 × 0.128 × 0.312 head diameter)6 4 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Fasteners shall comply with Sections R703.3.2 and R703.3.3.
b. Maximum spacing of exterior soffit framing members shall not exceed 24 inches.
c. Wood structural panels shall be of an exterior exposure grade.
d. Wood structural panels shall be installed with strength axis perpendicular to supports with not fewer than two continuous spans.
e.CRC § 1001.1 Medium relevance — show source text
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10 CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
User notes:
About this chapter : The purpose of this chapter is to provide regulations for the circumstances where an existing building is subject to a change of occupancy or a change of occupancy classification. A change of occupancy is not to be confused with a change of occupancy classification. The California Building Code defines different occupancy classifications in Chapter 3 and special occupancy requirements in Chapter 4. Within specific occupancy classifications there can be many different types of actual activities that can take place. For instance, a Group A-3 occupancy classification deals with a wide variation of different types of activities, including bowling alleys and courtrooms, indoor tennis courts and dance halls. When a facility changes use from, for example, a bowling alley to a dance hall, the occupancy classification remains A-3, but the different uses could lead to drastically different code requirements. Therefore, this chapter deals with the special circumstances that are associated with a change in the use of a building within the same occupancy classification as well as a change of occupancy classification.
SECTION 1001—GENERAL
1001.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shalle a change of occupancy occurs, as defined in Section 202.
1001.2 Certificate of occupancy. A change of occupancy or a change of occupancy within a space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of th apply where current California Building Code than exists in the current building or space shall not be made to any structure without the approval of the code official. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where it has been determined that the requirements for the change of occupancy have been met.
1001.2.1 Change of use. Any work undertaken in connection with a change in use shall conform to the applicable requirements for the work as classified in Chapter 6 and to the requirements of Sections 1002 through 1010.
1001.2.2 Change of occupancy classification. Where a building undergoes a change of occupancy classification, the provisions of Sections 1002 through 1011 shall apply.
1001.2.2.1 Partial change of occupancy. Where a portion of an existing building undergoes a change of occupancy classification, Section 1011 shall apply.
1001.3 Certificate of occupancy required. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where a change of occupancy occurs that results in a different occupancy classification as determined by the California Building Code .
SECTION 1002—SPECIAL USE AND OCCUPANCY
1002.1 Compliance with the building code. Where an existing building or part of an existing building undergoes a change of occupancy to one of the special use or occupancy categories as described in Chapter 4 in the California Building Code, the building shall comply with all of the requirements of Chapter 4 of the California Building Code applicable to the special use or occupancy.
1002.2 Incidental uses. Where a portion of a building undergoes a change of occupancy to one of the incidental uses listed in Table 509.1 of the California Building Code, the incidental use shall comply with Section 509 of the California Building Code applicable to the incidental use.
SECTION 1003—BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS
1003.1 General. Building elements and materials in portions of buildings undergoing a change of occupancy classification shall comply with Section 1011.
SECTION 1004—FIRE PROTECTION
CRC § 0.113 Medium relevance — show source text
or 16 ga.
staple galvanized, 15/8″ long,7/16″ or
1″ crown; or 15/8″ screws, Type W or S|7|7| |Wood structural panels, combination subfloor underlayment to framing|Wood structural panels, combination subfloor underlayment to framing|Wood structural panels, combination subfloor underlayment to framing|Wood structural panels, combination subfloor underlayment to framing|Wood structural panels, combination subfloor underlayment to framing| |38|3/4″ and less|Deformed (2″ × 0.113″) or
Deformed (2″ × 0.120″) nail; or
8d common (21/2″ × 0.131″) nail|6|12| |39|7/8″ – 1"|8d common (21/2″ × 0.131″) nail; or
Deformed (21/2″ × 0.131″); or
Deformed (21/2″ × 0.120″) nail|6|12| |40|11/8″ − 11/4″|10d common (3″ × 0.148″) nail; or
Deformed (21/2″× 0.131″); or
Deformed (21/2″ × 0.120″) nail|6|12| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s; 1 ksi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Nails are smooth-common, box or deformed shanks except where otherwise stated. Nails used for framing and sheathing connections are carbon steel and shall have mini-
mum average bending yield strengths as shown: 80 ksi for shank diameter of 0.192 inch (20d common nail), 90 ksi for shank diameters larger than 0.142 inch but not larger than
0.177 inch, and 100 ksi for shank diameters of 0.142 inch or less. Connections using nails and staples of other materials, such as stainless steel, shall be designed by accepted
engineering practice or approved under Section R104.2.2.
b. RSRS-01 is a Roof Sheathing Ring Shank nail meeting the specifications in ASTM F1667.
c. Nails shall be spaced at not more than 6 inches on center at all supports where spans are 48 inches or greater.
d. Four-foot by 8-foot or 4-foot by 9-foot panels shall be applied vertically.
e. Spacing of fasteners not included in this table shall be based on Table R602.3(2).
f. For wood structural panel roof sheathing attached to gable end roof framing and to intermediate supports within 48 inches of roof edges and ridges, nails shall be spaced at 4
inches on center where the ultimate design wind speed is greater than 130 mph in Exposure B or greater than 110 mph in Exposure C. Fastener spacing applies where roof
framing specific gravity is 0.42 or larger. Where roof framing specific gravity is greater than or equal to 0.35 but less than 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS, fastening of roof
sheathing shall be with RSRS-03 (21/2″ × 0.131″ × 0.281″ head) nails.
g.CRC § 301.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.
Count the total number of Tier 2 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 2 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 2 compliance.
Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)
[N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3
[A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
Scope with Exception5.105.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
note5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
less than 1 acre of land5.106.1 through
5.106.2DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Short-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Long-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1.2 through
5.106.4.1.5DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Tier 2
PrerequisiteDesignated parking—50% of parking capacity with future
charging spaces, parking stall markings and vehicle
designationA5.106.5.1,
A5.106.5.1.2,
A5.106.5.1.3,
A5.106.5.1.4,
A5.106.5.1.5DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Tier 2
PrerequisiteElectric vehicle (EV) charging [N] with Section 5.106.3.1,
Section 5.106.5.3.2 and associated Table A5.106.5.3.3 Tier 2
OR
Power Allocation Method:
Section A5.106.5.3.4 and associated Table A5.106.5.3.4 Tier 25.106.5.3.1,
5.106.5.3.2,
_Table A5.106.5.CRC § 5.508.2 Medium relevance — show source text
000 square feet or more|5.508.2
through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |||END OF MANDATORY PROVISIONS||||||Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
□ Mandatory: I attest that this mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.Col2 Signature: Signature: Company: Date: Address: License: City/State/Zip: Phone: 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-47
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602.1
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES
TIER 1 CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures.
Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 voluntary measures.
Instructions:
Comply with all Tier 1 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.
Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 1 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.
Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.
Count the total number of Tier 1 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 1 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)
[N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3
[A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
Scope with Exception5.105.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with note 5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
less than 1 acre of land5.106.1 through
5.106.2DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Short-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1. CRC § 602.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
□ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
□ Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
□ Partial Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
required to achieve Tier 1 compliance: however, partial Tier 1 compliance has been achieved.Col2 Signature: Company: Date: Address: License: City/State/Zip: Phone: APPENDIX A5-54 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602.2
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES
TIER 2 CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures.
Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 2 voluntary measures.
Instructions:
Comply with all Tier 2 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.
Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.
Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.
Count the total number of Tier 2 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 2 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 2 compliance.
Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)
[N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3
[A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
Scope with Exception5.105.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
note5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
less than 1 acre of land5.106.1 through
5.106.CRC § 04-15 Medium relevance — show source text
. . . . . . . . . 063928
Table 1 Description of Items to be Furnished and Installed by Customer Item Description 1 Option 1: Meter Adapter, Cooper B-Line Cat. No. MARR20L45GRSD
(160A) Use with Customer’s Panel Rated at 160A Continuous1, 21 Option 2: Meter Adapter, Ekstrom Industries No. 722B (175A). Specify Left, Right, or Bottom Hub 2 Combination Service Meter and Breaker Panel (rating as required) 3 Pull Termination Box, 8” x 12” x 4”, Rain-Tight, Circle A-W (Cooper B-Line) No. R-9007A or Equivalent (see Note
4M on Page 2)4 Conduit, See Notes 4C and 4G on Page 1 5 Hub to Be Closed and Made Tamper Proof 6 Pull Termination Box, 12” x 26” x 6”, Rain-Tight, Circle A-W Catalog Number R-90008, or Equivalent
(see Note 4K on Page 2)1 Fifth jaw accessory, use Cooper B-Line Cat. No. 50365. 2 Reducer hub and gasket accessories for 2” conduit, use Cooper B-Line Cat. No. AW200 and 12750A.
061032 Page 2 of 4 Rev. #04: 04-15-11
UG-1: Services Greenbook Residential and Small Commercial Overhead to Underground Electric Service Conversion
Optional Removable by Customer
To Be Removed
by PG&E
Meter Socket (see Figure 2 through Figure 7 on Pages 3 through 4)
For Riser and Pull Box Detail (see Figure 2 through Figure 7 on Pages 3 through 4)
For Gas and Water Sealing Requirements,
see Documents 063927 and Document 063928
48” Min.
72” Max.
Customer Shall Dig and Backfill Trench
(see Note 4B on Page 1)
Min. Bend
Depth
To PG&E Distribution System
As required byCol2 Col3 Customer Shall Dig and Backfill Trench
(see Note 4B on Page 1)
For Riser and Pull Box Detail (see Figure 2 through Figure 7 on Pages 3 through 4)
Meter Socket (see Figure 2 through Figure 7 on Pages 3 through 4)
To Be Removed
by PG&E
For Gas and Water Sealing Requirements,
seeDocuments 063927 andDocument 063928
To PG&E Distribution System
Optional Removable by Customer
48” Min.
72” Max.
As required by
Min. Bend
DepthDocument 063927 and Document 063928
Figure 1 Typical Service Conversion
PG&E Service Termination Point
See Note 4K on Page 2
PG&E Service Termination Point (see Note 4L on Page 2)
CRC § 1.10.4.3 Medium relevance — show source text
1.10.4.3 Identification of amendments. For applications listed in Section 1.10.4, amendments appear in this code preceded with the acronym [OSHPD 4], unless the entire chapter is applicable.
1.10.4.4 Reference to other chapters. Where reference is made within this code to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22, the respective sections in Chapters 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 21A and 22A shall apply instead.
Authority— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015 and 129790.
References— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 1275 and 129675 through 130070.
1.10.5 OSHPD 5. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.
Application— Acute psychiatric hospital buildings.
Enforcing agency— Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD). The office shall also enforce the California Energy Commission—Energy Regulations, the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance regulations and the regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal for the above-stated facility type.
1.10.5.1 Applicable administrative standards. 1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations: Chapter 7. 2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sections 1.1 and 1.10, Chapter 1, Division I, and as adopted in Chapter I, Division II.
1.10.5.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10 and 11.
The provision of Title 24, Part 2, as adopted and amended by OSHPD, shall apply to the applications listed in Section 1.10.5.
OSHPD 5 adopts the following building standards in Title 24, Part 2:
Chapters 2 through 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33 and 35.
1.10.5.3 Identification of amendments. For applications listed in Section 1.10.5, amendments appear in this code preceded with the acronym [OSHPD 5].
Authority— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 1275 and 129850.
References— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 129680, 1275 and 129675 through 130070.
1.10.6 OSHPD 6. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.
Application —Chemical dependency recovery hospital not within an acute care hospital building or an acute psychiatric facility.
Enforcing agency —Local building department.
California Residential Code Medium relevance — show source text
|204
|420
|629
|1210
|1930
|3410
|6960
| |1200
|50
|104
|195
|400
|600
|1160
|1840
|3260
|6640
| |1300
|47
|99
|187
|384
|575
|1110
|1760
|3120
|6360
| |1400
|46
|95
|179
|368
|552
|1060
|1690
|3000
|6110
| |1500
|44
|92
|173
|355
|532
|1020
|1630
|2890
|5890
| |1600
|42
|89
|167
|343
|514
|989
|1580
|2790
|5680
| |1700
|41
|86
|162
|332
|497
|957
|1530
|2700
|5500
| |1800
|40
|83
|157
|322
|482
|928
|1480
|2610
|5330
| |1900
|39
|81
|152
|312
|468
|901
|1440
|2540
|5180
| |2000|38|79|148|304|455|877|1400|2470|5040|CRC § 1007.1 Medium relevance — show source text
3 Exception 3|X|||||||||||||||||||||||| |1007||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1007.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1009.2 – 1009.4||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1011.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.2.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.4||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1011.5.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.5.1 Exception 8||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |Table 1011.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.5.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.5.2 Exception 2||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1011.5.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.5.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1011.6.1 Exception 1||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1011.7.1 Exception||||†|†|||||||||||||||||||| |1011.8.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||||
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.
2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 10-1
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10 CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
User notes:
About this chapter : The purpose of this chapter is to provide regulations for the circumstances where an existing building is subject to a change of occupancy or a change of occupancy classification. A change of occupancy is not to be confused with a change of occupancy classification. The California Building Code defines different occupancy classifications in Chapter 3 and special occupancy requirements in Chapter 4. Within specific occupancy classifications there can be many different types of actual activities that can take place. For instance, a Group A-3 occupancy classification deals with a wide variation of different types of activities, including bowling alleys and courtrooms, indoor tennis courts and dance halls. When a facility changes use from, for example, a bowling alley to a dance hall, the occupancy classification remains A-3, but the different uses could lead to drastically different code requirements. Therefore, this chapter deals with the special circumstances that are associated with a change in the use of a building within the same occupancy classification as well as a change of occupancy classification.
SECTION 1001—GENERAL
1001.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shalle a change of occupancy occurs, as defined in Section 202.
1001.2 Certificate of occupancy. A change of occupancy or a change of occupancy within a space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of th apply where current California Building Code than exists in the current building or space shall not be made to any structure without the approval of the code official. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where it has been determined that the requirements for the change of occupancy have been met.
CRC § 25218.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402, 25402.1, and 25605, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8, 25605, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
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9 SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS—ADDITIONS AND
ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
SECTION 150.2—ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR ADDITIONS AND
ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
(a) Additions. Additions to existing single-family residential buildings shall meet the requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.9; Sections 150.0(a) through (n), (p) and (q); and either Section 150.2(a)1 or 2.
Exception 1 to Section 150.2(a): Additions of 300 square feet or less are not required to comply with the roofing requirements of Section 150.1(c)11.
Exception 2 to Section 150.2(a): Existing inaccessible piping shall not require insulation as defined under Section 150.0(j)1.
Exception 3 to Section 150.2(a): Space-conditioning system. When heating or cooling will be extended to an addition from the existing system(s), the existing heating and cooling equipment need not comply with Part 6. The heating system capacity must be adequate to meet the minimum requirements of CRC 303.10.
Exception 4 to Section 150.2(a): Space-conditioning system ducts. When any length of duct is extended from an existing duct system to serve the addition, the existing duct system and the extended duct shall meet the applicable requirements specified in Section 150.2(b)1Di and 150.2(b)1Dii.
Exception 5 to Section 150.2(a): Additions 1,000 square feet or less are not required to comply with the ventilation cooling requirements of Section 150.1(c)12.
Exception 6 to Section 150.2(a): Photovoltaic systems, as specified in Section 150.1(c)14, are not required for additions.
- Prescriptive approach. Additions to existing buildings shall meet the following additional requirements: A. Additions that are greater than 700 square feet shall meet the requirements of Section 150.1(c), with the following modifications:
i. Extensions of existing wood-framed walls may retain the dimensions of the existing walls and shall install cavity insulation of R-15 in a 2 × 4 framing and R-21 in a 2 × 6 framing. ii. The maximum allowed fenestration area shall be the greater of 175 square feet or 20 percent of the addition floor area, and the maximum allowed west-facing fenestration area shall be the greater of 70 square feet or the requirements of Section 150.1(c).
CRC § 2-5 Medium relevance — show source text
Part II—Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5
R201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
R202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Part III—Building Planning and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5
CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5
R300 Site Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
R301 Design Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
R302 Fire-Resistant Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23
R303 Foam Plastic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-31
R304 Protection of Wood and Wood-Based Products
Against Decay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-33
R305 Protection Against Subterranean Termites. . . . . . . 3-35
R306 Flood-Resistant Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-36
R307 Storm Shelters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40
R308 Site Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-40
R309 Automatic Sprinkler Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-41
R310 Smoke Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-54
R311 Carbon Monoxide Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-58
R312 Minimum Room Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-59
R313 Ceiling Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-59
CRC § 18001.8. Medium relevance — show source text
and the exclusive remedy for the_ failure to comply with this section is an award of actual damages not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100), exclusive of any court costs and attorney’s fees. h. Local ordinances requiring smoke detectors in single-family dwellings may be enacted or amended. However, the ordi- nances shall satisfy the minimum requirements of this section. i. For the purposes of this section, “single-family dwelling” does not include a manufactured home as defined in Section 18007, a mobilehome as defined in Section 18008, or a commercial coach as defined in Section 18001.8.
j. This section shall not apply to the installation of smoke detectors in dwellings intended for human occupancy, as defined in and regulated by Section 13113.7 of the Health and Safety Code, as added by Senate Bill No. 1448 in the 1983-84 Regular Session.
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BUILDING PLANNING
SECTION R311—CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
R311.1 General. Ca rbon monoxide alarms shall comply with Section R311.
R311.1.1 Listings. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2034. Combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarms shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 217 and UL 2034.
No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale or sell any carbon monoxide device in the State of California unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
R311.1.2 Installation. Carbon monoxide alarms, and combination carbon monoxide and smoke alarms, shall be installed in accordance with their listing and the manufacturer’s instructions.
R311.2 Where required. Carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in accordance with Sections R311.2.1 and R311.2.2.
Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17926, carbon monoxide devices shall be installed in all existing dwelling units as required in this section.
R311.2.1 Existing buildings and new construction. For existing buildings and new construction, carbon monoxide alarms shall be provided in dwelling units where either or both of the following conditions exist.
- The dwelling unit contains a fuel-fired appliance or fireplace.
- The dwelling unit has an attached garage with an opening that communicates with the dwelling unit.
R311.2.2 Alterations, repairs and additions. Where an addition is made to an existing dwelling, or a fuel-burning heater, appli- ance or fireplace is added to an existing dwelling, not previously required to be provided with carbon monoxide alarms, new carbon monoxide alarms shall be installed in accordance with Section R311.
Exceptions:
- Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding, or the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addition of a porch or deck.
- Installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing systems.
- Installation, alteration or repairs of mechanical systems that are not fuel fired.
CRC § 0.30 Medium relevance — show source text
CK105.1 Windows, minimum size and dimensions. A minimum of one window shall be provided that meet the minimum size, mini- mum dimensions and operational constraints of Section R310. The number of such windows shall be appropriate for the occupancy or occupancies of the portions of the building that are below WSEL200.
Note: It is the intent of this section that windows be of sufficient number, sizes and dimensions to reasonably accommodate the needs and limitations of the occupants of the building. Reasonable judgment in the application of this requirement must be exer- cised by the building official.
CK105.2 Exterior doors to decks, balconies and porches. Exterior doors to decks, balconies and porches shall be sized in accor- dance with Section R311.
CK105.3 Means of escape to rooftops from spaces within a building. The means of escape to rooftops shall be permitted to be provided by a stairway, ramp, alternating tread device, fixed ladder or other means approved by the building official.
CK106 Decks and balconies that are evacuation locations. Decks and balconies that have finish floors no less than one (1) foot (0.30 meter) above the WSEL200 shall be permitted to be evacuation locations. When a deck or balcony used as an evacuation location is not at the same level as a floor within the building, it shall be permitted to be accessed by a stairway, ramp, alternating tread device, fixed ladder or other means approved by the building official.
CK106.1 Live load. Decks and balconies that are evacuation locations shall be designed for the live load required in Table R301.5.
CK106.2 Evacuation route. Evacuation routes to decks and balconies that are evacuation locations shall be permitted to be provided by a stairway, ramp, alternating tread device, fixed ladder or other means approved by the building official.
CK107 Rooftop evacuation locations. Rooftop evacuation locations shall be permitted to include rooftop platforms and rooftop areas provided that they are no less than one (1) foot (0.30 meter) above the WSEL200. A minimum horizontal distance of 3 feet (0.91 meter) shall be provided between the lower edge of the rooftop evacuation location access point and the evacuation location lower perimeter.
CK107.1 Rooftop platforms required. A rooftop platform shall be provided if the roof covering materials are: 1. Clay tile, concrete tile, slate shingles, wood shingles or wood shakes and the roof slope is three units vertical in 12 units hori- zontal (25 percent slope) or greater. 2. Metal roof panels or metal roof shingles and the roof slope is one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33 percent slope) or greater.
CK107.2 Roof live loads. Roof areas that are rooftop evacuation locations and roofs that support rooftop platforms that are evacua- tion locations shall be designed for the roof live load required for the occupancy as required in CBC Table 1607.2.
CK107.3 Evacuation routes to rooftop evacuation locations. Evacuation routes to rooftop evacuation locations shall be permitted to be provided by a stairway, ramp, alternating tread device, fixed ladder or other means approved by the building official.
APPENDIX CK-4 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
CRC § 100.0 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CRC Residential Code
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2025 California Residential Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2.5
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PREFACE
This document is Part 2.5 of thirteen parts of the official triennial compilation and publication of the adoptions, amendments and repeal of administrative regulations to California Code of Regulations, Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards Code. This part is known as the California Residential Code.
The California Building Standards Code is published in its entirety every three years by order of the California legislature, with supplements published in intervening years. The California legislature delegated authority to various state agencies, boards, commissions and departments to create building regulations to implement the State’s statutes. These building regulations, or standards, have the same force of law, and take effect 180 days after their publication unless otherwise stipulated. The Califor- nia Building Standards Code applies to occupancies in the State of California as annotated.
A city, county, or city and county may establish more restrictive building standards reasonably necessary because of local climatic, geological or topographical conditions. Findings of the local condition(s) and the adopted local building standard(s) must generally be filed with the California Building Standards Commission (or other filing if indicated) to become effective, and may not be effective sooner than the effective date of this edition of the California Building Standards Code . Local building standards that were adopted and applicable to previous editions of the California Building Standards Code do not apply to this edition without appropriate adoption and the required filing.
Should you find publication (e.g., typographical) errors or inconsistencies in this code or wish to offer comments toward improving its format, please address your comments to:
California Building Standards Commission
2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95833-2936
Phone: (916) 263-0916 Email: cbsc@dgs.ca.gov
Web page: www.dgs.ca.gov/bsc
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The 2025 California Building Standards Code (Code) was developed through the outstanding collaborative efforts of the Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of the State Architect, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Department of Health Care Access and Information, California Energy Commission, California Department of Public Health, California State Lands Commission, Board of State and Community Corrections, Department of Water Resources, State Historical Building Safety Board, Department of Consumer Affairs, State Librarian, Department of Food and Agriculture, and the California Building Standards Commission (Commission).
This collaborative effort included the assistance of the Commission’s Code Advisory Committees and many other volunteers who worked tirelessly to assist the Commission in the production of this Code.
Governor Gavin Newsom
Members of the California Building Standards Commission
Frequently asked questions
What does "Building Planning" in the CRC actually control?
Building Planning (Chapter 3) controls the baseline design and habitability requirements for residential buildings—site drainage and design loads, minimum room/ceiling dimensions, required alarms and egress, protective glazing and guards, and special conditions like flood and storm-shelter rules—so it defines the items you must address before detailed structural or systems design proceeds .
Which CRC sections should I check first when starting a residential design?
Start with § R301 (Design criteria) for climate/loads and basic sizing, then review § R311–R313 for alarms, means of egress and ceiling/room dimensions, and § R325 for light, ventilation and heating—these set the primary constraints that influence layout, mechanical and structural choices early on .
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