CRC · California Residential Code

What fire‑resistant construction and hazardous‑location glazing rules apply?

For homeowners: exterior walls must meet fire‑separation and fire‑resistance rules in **§ R302** (check the tables and whether you have whole‑house sprinklers), and glass in specific places (doors, near doors, large low windows, guards, wet areas, stairs) is treated as hazardous and must be safety glazing that is tested and labeled per **§ R324**.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

  • Exterior walls, their projections, openings and penetrations must meet fire‑resistance and fire separation distance rules in § R302; follow the limits shown in Table R302.1(1) (or Table R302.1(2) when the dwelling is fully sprinklered) for the required fire‑resistance rating and allowed separations .
  • Glass in the specific areas listed in § R324.4 are treated as hazardous locations and must be safety glazing (identified and tested) in accordance with § R324.1 and the impact test rules in § R324.3.1 (CPSC 16 CFR 1201 / ANSI Z97.1 as allowed) .

Any glazing in the locations listed in § R324.4 is a hazardous location and must be safety‑glazing that is identified and tested per § R324.1 and § R324.3.1.

Requirements in detail

A. Fire‑resistant construction — key points from § R302

  • The controlling rule is § R302.1: exterior wall construction, projections and openings are regulated by fire separation distance and the tables in § R302.1. Use Table R302.1(1) for ordinary construction and Table R302.1(2) when the entire dwelling has an approved automatic residential sprinkler system (see § R302.1) .
  • Typical outcomes from the tables (decision points you must check):
    • If fire‑separation distance = 0 feet, walls must be 1‑hour fire‑resistance rated (tested) with exposure from both sides.
    • If fire‑separation distance is ≥ 5 feet and wall is not fire‑resistance rated, minimum rating may be 0 hours (i.e., ordinary construction) per the table; other distances/configurations change projection allowances and required ratings .
  • Additional clarifications in § R302:
    • Townhouses/dwellings on same lot use an imaginary line for measuring separation (special rule in § R302.1) .
    • Several exceptions apply to projections and where vertical separations are required — read the exception list under § R302.1 carefully .

Decision‑relevant excerpt (quick reference table)

Location / element Decision threshold(s) (common) Required construction / result Code Reference
Exterior wall at 0 ft separation 0 ft 1‑hour fire‑resistance rating (tested; exposure both sides) § R302.1
Exterior wall at ≥ 5 ft separation ≥ 5 ft Non‑rated wall permitted (0 hours) depending on table § R302.1 & Table R302.1(1)
Same dwelling but sprinklered throughout See Table R302.1(2) Separation requirements reduced per table § R302.1 & Table R302.1(2)

(You must consult the full table in § R302.1 for exact combinations — these two rows are the most commonly encountered decisions.)

B. Hazardous‑location glazing — key points from § R324

  • The controlling definitions and identification: each pane installed in hazardous locations must carry a permanent manufacturer’s mark showing the type and standard it meets (labeling rules in § R324.1) .
  • The hazardous‑location list is in § R324.4 — glazing in the following broad categories is considered hazardous (short list, see table below for thresholds):
    • Glazing in doors (all fixed and operable panels) — § R324.4.1 .
    • Glazing adjacent to doors where glazing is within 24 inches of the door edge and bottom edge is less than 60 inches above the walking surface — § R324.4.2 .
    • Glazing in windows that meet all four window criteria (exposed area, bottom edge, top edge, proximity to walking surface) — § R324.4.3 .
    • Glazing in guards and railings — always hazardous regardless of area or height — § R324.4.4 .
    • Glazing and wet surfaces (pools, spas, tubs, showers) when bottom exposed edge is less than 60 inches above a standing surface — § R324.4.5 .
    • Glazing adjacent to stairs and ramps where the bottom exposed edge is less than 36 inches above the adjacent walking surface — § R324.4.6 .
    • Glazing at bottom stair landings within the specified 60‑inch arcs and less than 36 inches above the landing — § R324.4.7 .
  • Impact testing and standards: glazing required to be safety glazing must be tested per CPSC 16 CFR 1201, meeting Category II impact criteria unless Table R324.3.1 indicates otherwise; ANSI Z97.1 testing is allowed by exception in some non‑door/hot tub locations (see § R324.3.1) . Minimum classification tables are in Table R324.3.1(2) (see code) .
  • Identification (labeling): each pane of safety glazing must be marked (acid‑etched, sand‑blasted, laser‑etched, embossed or a durable label) so compliance can be verified on site — § R324.1 .

Decision‑relevant glazing dimensions and requirements

Hazardous‑location type Key thresholds (area / heights / distances) Safety glazing/testing requirement Code Reference
Glazing in doors All fixed & operable door panels are hazardous (no size threshold) Safety glazing; identification required § R324.4.1 & § R324.1
Glazing adjacent to doors Within 24 inches of door edge; bottom edge < 60 inches above floor Safety glazing unless exception applies § R324.4.2
Windows (hazardous windows) Exposed area > 9 sq ft, bottom edge < 18 in, top edge > 36 in, walking surface within 36 in Safety glazing; see impact test requirements in § R324.3.1 § R324.4.3 & § R324.3.1
Guards & railings Any glazing used in guards or railings (all areas/heights) Safety glazing required § R324.4.4
Wet surfaces (pools, spas, tubs) Bottom exposed edge < 60 in above standing/walking surface Safety glazing required; exception if > 60 in horizontally from water’s edge § R324.4.5
Stairs & ramps Bottom exposed edge < 36 in above the adjacent walking surface Safety glazing required; exceptions for rails or distance § R324.4.6

C. Identification and special construction rules

  • Labels are required on each pane installed in hazardous locations; small multipane assemblies have specific labeling rules (§ R324.1 / § R324.1.1) .
  • Wired glass is specifically prohibited in jalousies/louvered windows where the wire is exposed on longitudinal edges (§ R324.2.1) .
  • Site‑built windows and skylights have their own referenced compliance sections (§ R324.5, § R324.6) — consult those when windows/skylights are not factory‑made .

Exceptions & special cases

  • Decorative glazing is repeatedly exempt from being classified as hazardous glazing in many of the location rules (see the exceptions listed under § R324.4.1, § R324.4.2, § R324.4.3) — check each subsection for the exact exception language .
  • A horizontal protective rail at 34–38 inches above the walking surface can exempt some glazing adjacent to walking surfaces from being hazardous (the rail must meet the load and clearance requirements) — see the exceptions in § R324.4.3 and related subsections .
  • Outboard panes in insulating glass units may be excepted when the bottom exposed edge is 25 feet (CRC) or 8 feet (CBC) above adjacent grade/walking surface — note California CRC uses 25 feet in the residential chapter exception; verify which chapter applies to your project (residential vs. CBC) — see § R324 exceptions and the CBC for commercial wording .
  • Sprinklered dwellings: when an approved automatic residential sprinkler system is installed through the dwelling, exterior wall separation requirements are reduced per Table R302.1(2) (see § R302.1) .

If a specific construction element or condition is not covered in the snippets here, the code text should be consulted directly for the precise exception wording.

Common mistakes

  • Measuring to the wrong reference line: fire‑separation distances for townhouses are measured to the lot line or an assumed imaginary line between units — don’t assume centerline or wall face without checking § R302.1 .
  • Forgetting identification labels: inspectors often reject safety glazing without the manufacturer’s permanent mark as required by § R324.1 .
  • Confusing the height thresholds: for windows the bottom edge threshold is 18 in and the top edge 36 in (plus area > 9 sq ft) — all four criteria must be met for § R324.4.3 to apply; don’t apply the window rule on partial compliance .
  • Using the wrong test standard / classification: the baseline is CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Category II per § R324.3.1 unless the code explicitly allows ANSI Z97.1 or a lesser Class — check Table R324.3.1(2) for minimum classification by location .
  • Installing wired glass in jalousies with exposed wire edges — prohibited (see § R324.2.1) .

Worked example

Scenario: A living‑room window pane is 12 sq ft in exposed area, the bottom edge of the pane is 14 inches above the finished floor, the top edge is 70 inches above the floor, and a patio walking surface runs 24 inches away from the plane of the window.

Step‑through:

  1. Window hazards: Check § R324.4.3 — the four criteria are:
    • Exposed area > 9 sq ft? Yes (12 sq ft).
    • Bottom edge < 18 in above floor? Yes (14 in).
    • Top edge > 36 in above floor? Yes (70 in).
    • Walking surface within 36 in of the glazing plane? Yes (24 in). => All four met, so this is a hazardous location.
  2. Testing / classification needed: Per § R324.3.1, hazardous glazing must be tested per CPSC 16 CFR 1201, normally meeting Category II impact criteria unless Table R324.3.1(2) indicates a different minimum classification for this specific panel — consult the table to confirm the required classification and provide a pane with the appropriate test label. Also ensure the pane is permanently identified per § R324.1 .
  3. Practical result: Use tempered or laminated safety glass that carries the correct test standard label (and matches the minimum category in Table R324.3.1(2)); if decorative glazing or another exception applied, that could change the requirement — but none of the decorative exceptions apply in this example.

Related provisions (quick links)

  • § R302.1 — Exterior walls; fire separation distance and Table R302.1(1)/(2)
  • § R302.2 — Townhouse separation rules referenced by R302.1
  • § R324.1 — Identification/labeling of safety glazing
  • § R324.3.1 — Impact test standard (CPSC 16 CFR 1201 / ANSI Z97.1 exceptions)
  • Table R324.3.1(2) — Minimum glazing category/classification by location
  • § R324.2 / § R324.2.1 — Louvered windows; wired glass prohibition in jalousies
  • § BO102.6.2 — Replacement glazing in hazardous locations (existing work)

Code references

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

  • CRC § 0.84 High relevance — show source text

    1. The exposed area of an individual pane is greater than 9 square feet (0.84 m [2] ).

    2. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor or adjacent walking surface.

    3. The top edge of the glazing is greater than 36 inches (914 mm) above the floor or adjacent walking surface.

    4. One or more walking surface(s) are within 36 inches (914 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, of the plane of the glazing. Exceptions:

    5. Decorative glazing.

    6. Where a horizontal rail is installed on the accessible side(s) of the glazing 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and be not less than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) in cross-sectional height.

    7. Outboard panes in insulating glass units or multiple glazing where the bottom exposed edge of the glass is 8 feet (2438 mm) or more above any grade or walking surface adjacent to the glass exterior. 2406.4.4 Glazing in guards and railings. Glazing in guards and railings, including structural baluster panels and nonstructural infill panels, regardless of area or height above a walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location. 2406.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces. Glazing in walls, enclosures or fences containing or facing hot tubs, spas, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers and indoor or outdoor swimming pools where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) measured vertically above any standing or walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location. This shall apply to single glazing and all panes in multiple glazing. Exception: Glazing that is more than 60 inches (1524 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, from the water’s edge of a bathtub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool or swimming pool. 2406.4.6 Glazing adjacent to stairways and ramps. Glazing where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the plane of the adjacent walking surface of stairways, landings between flights of stairs and ramps shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. The side of a stairway, landing or ramp that has a guard complying with the provisions of Sections 1015 and 1607.9, and the plane of the glass is greater than 18 inches (457 mm) from the railing.
    2. Glazing 36 inches (914 mm) or more measured horizontally from the walking surface. 2406.4.7 Glazing adjacent to the bottom stairway landing. Glazing adjacent to the landing at the bottom of a stairway where the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the landing and within a 60-inch (1524 mm) horizontal arc that is less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) from the bottom tread nosing shall be considered to be a hazardous location. Exception: Glazing that is protected by a guard complying with Sections 1015 and 1607.9 where the plane of the glass is greater than 18 inches (457 mm) from the guard. 2406.5 Fire department access panels. Fire department glass access panels shall be of tempered glass. For multipanel glass assemblies, all panes shall be tempered glass.
  • CRC § 2607.4 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. In structures provided with approved flame barriers extending 30 inches (760 mm) beyond the exterior wall in the plane of the floor, a vertical separation is not required at the floor except that provided by the vertical thickness of the flame barrier projection.
    2. Veneers of approved weather-resistant light-transmitting plastics used as exterior siding in buildings of Type V construction in compliance with Section 1405.
    3. The area of light-transmitting plastic wall panels in exterior walls of greenhouses shall be exempt from the area limitations of Table 2607.4 but shall be limited as required for unprotected openings in accordance with Section 705.9.
    TABLE 2607.4—AREA LIMITATION AND SEPARATION REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHT-TRANSMITTING PLASTIC WALL PANELSa Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6
    FIRE
    SEPARATION
    DISTANCE
    (feet)    		 CLASS OF
    PLASTIC    		 MAXIMUM
    PERCENTAGE AREA
    OF EXTERIOR WALL IN
    PLASTIC WALL
    PANELS    		 MAXIMUM SINGLE
    AREA OF PLASTIC
    WALL PANELS
    (square feet)    		 MINIMUM SEPARATION OF PLASTIC WALL PANELS
    (feet)    		 MINIMUM SEPARATION OF PLASTIC WALL PANELS
    (feet)
    FIRE
    SEPARATION
    DISTANCE
    (feet)    		 CLASS OF
    PLASTIC    		 MAXIMUM
    PERCENTAGE AREA
    OF EXTERIOR WALL IN
    PLASTIC WALL
    PANELS    		 MAXIMUM SINGLE
    AREA OF PLASTIC
    WALL PANELS
    (square feet)    		 Vertical Horizontal
    Less than 6 — Not Permitted Not Permitted — —
    6 or more but less
    than 11    		 CC1 10 50 8 4
    6 or more but less
    than 11    		 CC2 Not Permitted Not Permitted — —
    11 or more but less
    than or equal to 30    		 CC1 25 90 6 4
    11 or more but less
    than or equal to 30    		 CC2 15 70 8 4
    Over 30 CC1 50 Not Limited 3b 0
    Over 30 CC2 50 100 6b 3
    For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. For combinations of plastic glazing and plastic wall panel areas permitted, see Section 2607.6.
    b. For reductions in vertical separation allowed, see Section 2607.4.    		 For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. For combinations of plastic glazing and plastic wall panel areas permitted, see Section 2607.6.
    b.
  • CRC § 0.79 High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. Decorative glazing.
    2. Where glazing is adjacent to a walking surface and a horizontal rail is installed 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm).
    3. Outboard panes in insulating glass units and other multiple glazed panels where the bottom edge of the glass is 25 feet (7620 mm) or more above grade, a roof, walking surfaces or other horizontal [within 45 degrees (0.79 rad) of horizontal] surface adjacent to the glass exterior.

    R324.4.4 Glazing in guards and railings. Glazing in guards and railings, including structural baluster panels and nonstructural infill panels, regardless of area or height above a walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    R324.4.4.1 Structural glass baluster panels. Guards with structural glass baluster panels shall be installed with an attached top rail or handrail. The top rail or handrail shall be supported by not less than three glass baluster panels, or shall be otherwise supported to remain in place should one glass baluster panel fail.

    Exception: An attached top rail or handrail is not required where the glass baluster panels are laminated glass with two or more glass plies of equal thickness and of the same glass type.

    R324.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces. Glazing in walls, enclosures or fences containing or adjacent to hot tubs, spas, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers and indoor or outdoor swimming pools where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) measured vertically above any standing or walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location. This shall apply to single glazing and each pane in multiple glazing.

    Exception: Glazing that is more than 60 inches (1524 mm), measured horizontally, from the water’s edge of a bathtub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool or swimming pool or from the edge of a shower, sauna or steam room.

    R324.4.6 Glazing adjacent to stairs and ramps. Glazing installed where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the plane of the adjacent walking surface of flights of stairs, ramp runs, landings between flights of stairs and landings between ramp runs shall be considered to be in a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Where glazing is adjacent to a walking surface and a horizontal rail is installed at 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm).
    2. Glazing 36 inches (914 mm) or more measured horizontally from the walking surface.

    R324.4.7 Glazing adjacent to the bottom stair landing. Glazing adjacent to the landing at the bottom of a stairway where the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the landing and within a 60-inch (1524 mm) horizontal arc less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) from the bottom tread nosing shall be considered to be a hazardous location. (See Figure R324.4.7.)

  • CRC § 1015.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    Screen porches 1015.5 Stairs 1015.2

    Vehicle barrier 406.4.2, 1607.11 Windows 1015.8

    Gutters 1502.3 Gymnasiums 303.4 Group E 303.1.3 Live load Table 1607.1 Occupant load 1004.5 Gypsum Chapter 25 Board Chapter 25 Ceiling diaphragms 2508.6 Concrete, reinforced gypsum 2514 Construction 2508 Draftstopping 718.3.1 Exterior soffit Table 2506.2 Fastening Table 2306.3(3), 2508.1 Fire resistance 719, 722.2.1.4, 722.6.2 Fire-resistant joint treatment 2508.5 Inspection 2503 Lath 2507, 2510 Lathing and furring for cement plaster 719, 2510 Lathing and plastering 2507 Materials 2506

    Panel products Chapter 25 Performance 2502 Plaster, exposed aggregate 2513 Plaster, exterior 2512 Plaster, interior 2511 Shear wall construction Table 2306.3(3), 2308.10.3, 2505 Sheathing Table 2308.9.9, Table 2508.1, 2508.2, 2508.5, 2510.5.2.2 Showers and water closets 2509

    Stucco 2510

    Veneer base 2507.2

    Veneer plaster 2507.2, 2511.1, Table 2511.1.1

    Vertical and horizontal assemblies

    2504

    Wallboard Table 2506.2, 2508.2, 2508.2.1, 2508.4, 2510.5.2.1 Water-resistant backing board 2506.2, 2509.2

    Habitable Space 1208 Handrails 1014 Alternating tread devices 1011.14 Assembly aisles 1030.16 Construction 1014.5, 1014.6, 1014.7 Extensions 1014.7 Glazing 2407 Graspability 1014.4 Guards 1015.3 Height 1014.2 Loads 1607.9

    Location 1014.1, 1014.8, 1014.9,

    1014.10

    Ramps 1012.8 Stairs 1011.11

    Hardboard 1403.3.2, 2303.1.7 Hardware (see Doors and Locks and Latching) Hardwood

    Fastening 2304.10 Quality 2303.3 Veneer 1403.3.2 Hazardous Materials 307, 414, 415 Compliance with California Fire Code 307.2

    Control areas 414.2

    Explosion control 414.5.1, Table 414.5.1, 415.11.6.5, 426.1.4 Mercantile occupancies 309.2 Reporting 414.1.3 Sprinkler protection Table 414.2.5.1, Table 414.2.5.2, 415.4, 415.11.12,

    903.2.5

  • CRC § 3.1. Medium relevance — show source text

    Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.|

    R324.4 Hazardous locations. The locations specified in Sections R324.4.1 through R324.4.7 shall be considered to be specific hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing.

    R324.4.1 Glazing in doors. Glazing in fixed and operable panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
    2. Decorative glazing.

    2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 3-69

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

    BUILDING PLANNING

    R324.4.2 Glazing adjacent to doors. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door shall be considered to be a hazardous location where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the floor or walking surface and it meets either of the following conditions:

    1. Where the glazing is within 24 inches (610 mm) of either side of the door in the plane of the door in a closed position.
    2. Where the glazing is on a wall less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) from the plane of the door in a closed position and within 24 inches (610 mm) of the hinge side of an in-swinging door.

    Exceptions:

    1. Decorative glazing.
    2. Where there is an intervening wall or other permanent barrier between the door and the glazing.
    3. Where access through the door is to a closet or storage area 3 feet (914 mm) or less in depth. Glazing in this application shall comply with Section R324.4.3.
    4. Glazing that is adjacent to the fixed panel of patio doors.

    R324.4.3 Glazing in windows. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel that meets all of the following conditions shall be considered to be a hazardous location:

    1. The exposed area of an individual pane is larger than 9 square feet (0.836 m [2] ).
    2. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor.
    3. The top edge of the glazing is more than 36 inches (914 mm) above the floor.
    4. One or more walking surfaces are within 36 inches (914 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, of the glazing.

    Exceptions:

  • CRC § 4.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    4.3**
    (Category Class)|** GLAZED PANELS**
    REGULATED BY
    SECTION R324.4.2
    (Category Class)|** GLAZING IN**
    DOORS AND
    ENCLOSURES
    REGULATED
    ** BY SECTION**
    R324.4.5
    (Category Class)|** SLIDING**
    GLASS DOORS
    PATIO TYPE
    (Category Class)| |9 square feet or
    less|I|I|NR|I|II|II| |More than 9
    square feet|II|II|II|II|II|II| |For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    NR = No Requirement.|

    TABLE R324.3.1(2)—MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING ANSI Z97.1 Col2 Col3 Col4
    ** EXPOSED SURFACE AREA OF**
    ONE SIDE OF ONE LITE    		 ** GLAZED PANELS REGULATED**
    BY SECTION R324.4.3
    (Category Class)    		 ** GLAZED PANELS REGULATED**
    BY SECTION R324.4.2
    (Category Class)    		 ** DOORS AND ENCLOSURES**
    REGULATED BY SECTION R324.4.5
    a(Category Class)
    9 square feet or less No requirement B A
    More than 9 square feet A A A
    For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.    		 For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.    		 For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.    		 For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R324.3.1.

    R324.4 Hazardous locations. The locations specified in Sections R324.4.1 through R324.4.7 shall be considered to be specific hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing.

    R324.4.1 Glazing in doors. Glazing in fixed and operable panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

  • CRC § 7.62 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. For occupancies in Groups R-2 and R-3, within the interior conditioned space of individual dwelling units, where the open-sided walking surface is located not more than 25 feet (7.62 meters) measured vertically to the floor or walking surface below, required guards shall not be less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface. 3. For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings. 4. The guard height in assembly seating areas shall comply with Section 1030.17 as applicable. 5. Along alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders, guards where the top rail serves as a handrail shall have height not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864 mm), measured vertically from a line connecting the leading edge of the treads. 6. In Group F occupancies where exit access stairways serve fewer than three stories and such stairways are not open to the public, and where the top of the guard also serves as a handrail, the top of the guard shall be not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.

    [BE] 1015.4 Opening limitations. Required guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter from the walking surface to the required guard height.

    Exceptions:

    1. From a height of 36 inches (914 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm), guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 [3] / 8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.
    2. The triangular openings at the open sides of a stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (152 mm) in diameter.
    3. At elevated walking surfaces for access to and use of electrical, mechanical or plumbing systems or equipment, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
    4. In areas that are not open to the public within occupancies in Group I-3, F, H or S, and for alternating tread devices and ship’s ladders, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
    5. In assembly seating areas, guards required at the end of aisles in accordance with Section 1030.17.4 shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter up to a height of 26 inches (660 mm). From a height of 26 inches (660 mm) to 42 inches (1067 mm) above the adjacent walking surfaces, guards shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter.
    6. Within individual dwelling units and sleeping units in Group R-2 and R-3 occupancies, guards on the open sides of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 [3] / 8 (111 mm) inches in diameter. 7. [SFM] In lifeguard towers not open to the public, guards shall not have openings which allow passage of a sphere 21 inches (533 mm) in diameter.
  • CRC § 1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    R323.2 Platform lifts. Where provided, platform lifts shall comply with ASME A18.1.

    R323.3 Accessibility. Elevators or platform (wheelchair) lifts that are part of an accessible route required by Chapter 11 A of the Cali- fornia Building Code, shall comply with the requirements in Chapter 11A of the California Building Code.

    SECTION R324—GLAZING

    R324.1 Identification. Except as indicated in Section R324.1.1 each pane of glazing installed in hazardous locations as defined in Section R324.4 shall be provided with a manufacturer’s designation specifying who applied the designation, the type of glass and the safety glazing standard with which it complies, and that is visible in the final installation. The designation shall be acid etched, sand

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    blasted, ceramic-fired, laser etched, embossed, or be of a type that once applied cannot be removed without being destroyed. A label shall be permitted in lieu of the manufacturer’s designations.

    Exceptions:

    1. For other than tempered glass, manufacturer’s designations are not required provided that the building official approves the use of a certificate, affidavit or other evidence confirming compliance with this code.
    2. Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be identified by the manufacturer with a removable paper designation.

    R324.1.1 Identification of multiple assemblies. Multipane assemblies having individual panes not exceeding 1 square foot (0.09 m [2] ) in exposed area shall have not less than one pane in the assembly identified in accordance with Section R324.1. Other panes in the assembly shall be labeled “CPSC 16 CFR 1201” or “ANSI Z97.1” as appropriate.

    R324.2 Louvered windows or jalousies. Regular, float, wired or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows shall be not less than nominal [3] / 16 inch (5 mm) thick and not more than 48 inches (1219 mm) in length. Exposed glass edges shall be smooth.

    R324.2.1 Wired glass prohibited. Wired glass with wire exposed on longitudinal edges shall not be used in jalousies or louvered windows.

    R324.3 Human impact loads. Individual glazed areas, including glass mirrors in hazardous locations such as those indicated as defined in Section R324.4, shall pass the test requirements of Section R324.3.1.

    Exceptions:

    1. Louvered windows and jalousies shall comply with Section R324.2.
    2. Mirrors and other glass panels mounted or hung on a surface that provides a continuous backing support.
    3. Glass unit masonry complying with Section R607.

    R324.3.1 Impact test. Where required by other sections of the code, glazing shall be tested in accordance with CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Glazing shall comply with the test criteria for Category II unless otherwise indicated in Table R324.3.1(1).

    Exception: Glazing not in doors or enclosures for hot tubs, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and showers shall be permitted to be tested in accordance with ANSI Z97.1. Glazing shall comply with the test criteria for Class A unless otherwise indicated in Table R324.3.1(2).

    |TABLE R324.

  • CRC § 2406.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    2406.4 Hazardous locations. The locations specified in Sections 2406.4.1 through 2406.4.7 shall be considered to be specific hazardous locations requiring safety glazing materials.

    2406.4.1 Glazing in doors. Glazing in all fixed and operable panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
    2. Decorative glazing.
    3. Glazing materials used as curved glazed panels in revolving doors.
    4. Commercial refrigerated cabinet glazed doors.

    2406.4.2 Glazing adjacent to doors. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door where the nearest vertical edge of the glazing is within a 24-inch (610 mm) arc of either vertical edge of the door in a closed position and where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Decorative glazing.
    2. Where there is an intervening wall or other permanent barrier between the door and glazing.

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    1. Where access through the door is to a closet or storage area 3 feet (914 mm) or less in depth. Glazing in this application shall comply with Section 2406.4.3.

    2. Glazing in walls on the latch side of and perpendicular to the plane of the door in a closed position in one- and twofamily dwellings or within dwelling units in Group R-2. 2406.4.3 Glazing in windows. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel that meets all of the following conditions shall be considered to be a hazardous location:

    3. The exposed area of an individual pane is greater than 9 square feet (0.84 m [2] ).

    4. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor or adjacent walking surface.

    5. The top edge of the glazing is greater than 36 inches (914 mm) above the floor or adjacent walking surface.

    6. One or more walking surface(s) are within 36 inches (914 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, of the plane of the glazing. Exceptions:

    7. Decorative glazing.

    8. Where a horizontal rail is installed on the accessible side(s) of the glazing 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and be not less than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) in cross-sectional height.

    9. Outboard panes in insulating glass units or multiple glazing where the bottom exposed edge of the glass is 8 feet (2438 mm) or more above any grade or walking surface adjacent to the glass exterior. 2406.4.4 Glazing in guards and railings. Glazing in guards and railings, including structural baluster panels and nonstructural infill panels, regardless of area or height above a walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location. **2406.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces.

  • CRC § 4.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: Glazing that is more than 60 inches (1524 mm), measured horizontally, from the water’s edge of a bathtub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool or swimming pool or from the edge of a shower, sauna or steam room.

    R324.4.6 Glazing adjacent to stairs and ramps. Glazing installed where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the plane of the adjacent walking surface of flights of stairs, ramp runs, landings between flights of stairs and landings between ramp runs shall be considered to be in a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Where glazing is adjacent to a walking surface and a horizontal rail is installed at 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking surface. The rail shall be capable of withstanding a horizontal load of 50 pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting the glass and have a cross-sectional height of not less than 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm).
    2. Glazing 36 inches (914 mm) or more measured horizontally from the walking surface.

    R324.4.7 Glazing adjacent to the bottom stair landing. Glazing adjacent to the landing at the bottom of a stairway where the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above the landing and within a 60-inch (1524 mm) horizontal arc less than 180 degrees (3.14 rad) from the bottom tread nosing shall be considered to be a hazardous location. (See Figure R324.4.7.)

    Exception: Where the glazing is protected by a guard complying with Section R321 and the plane of the glass is more than 18 inches (457 mm) from the guard.

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    FIGURE R324.4.7—HAZARDOUS GLAZING LOCATIONS AT BOTTOM STAIR LANDINGS

    GLAZING LESS THAN

    36 ″ ABOVE LANDINGS

    WITHIN THIS AREA ARE

    CONSIDERED TO BE IN

    LOCATIONS, UNLESS THE EXCEPTION TO

    Col1 Col2 60″
    BOTTOM TREAD
    NOSING
    60″
    60″    		 60″
    LANDING    		 60″
    LANDING
    60″
    60″    		 S 60″
    60″
    60″    		 T
    		 T
    60″
    60″    		 A
    		 A
    60″
    60″    		 I
    R    		 I
    R
    60″
    60″    		 S S

    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

    R324.5 Site-built windows. Site-built windows shall comply with Section 2404 of the California Building Code.

    R324.6 Skylights and sloped glazing. Skylights and sloped glazing shall comply with the following sections.

    R324.6.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

    SKYLIGHT, UNIT.

    SKYLIGHTS AND SLOPED GLAZING.

    TUBULAR DAYLIGHTING DEVICE (TDD).

  • CRC § 2025 Medium 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.

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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 § 2406.2. Medium relevance — show source text

    Use is only permitted by the exception to Section 2406.2.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is only permitted by the exception to Section 2406.2.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is only permitted by the exception to Section 2406.2.|For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
    a. Use is only permitted by the exception to Section 2406.2.|

    2406.3 Identification of safety glazing. Except as indicated in Section 2406.3.1, each pane of safety glazing installed in hazardous locations shall be identified by a manufacturer’s designation specifying who applied the designation, the manufacturer or installer and the safety glazing standard with which it complies, as well as the information specified in Section 2403.1. The designation shall be acid etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired, laser etched, embossed or of a type that once applied, cannot be removed without being destroyed. A label meeting the requirements of this section shall be permitted in lieu of the manufacturer’s designation.

    Exceptions:

    1. For other than tempered glass, manufacturer’s designations are not required, provided that the building official approves the use of a certificate, affidavit or other evidence confirming compliance with this code.
    2. Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be identified by the manufacturer with a removable paper designation. 2406.3.1 Multipane assemblies. Multipane glazed assemblies having individual panes not exceeding 1 square foot (0.09 m [2] ) in exposed areas shall have one pane or more in the assembly marked as indicated in Section 2406.3. Other panes in the assembly shall be marked “CPSC 16 CFR Part 1201” or “ANSI Z97.1,” as appropriate.

    2406.4 Hazardous locations. The locations specified in Sections 2406.4.1 through 2406.4.7 shall be considered to be specific hazardous locations requiring safety glazing materials.

    2406.4.1 Glazing in doors. Glazing in all fixed and operable panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
    2. Decorative glazing.
    3. Glazing materials used as curved glazed panels in revolving doors.
    4. Commercial refrigerated cabinet glazed doors.

    2406.4.2 Glazing adjacent to doors. Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door where the nearest vertical edge of the glazing is within a 24-inch (610 mm) arc of either vertical edge of the door in a closed position and where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the walking surface shall be considered to be a hazardous location.

    Exceptions:

    1. Decorative glazing.
    2. Where there is an intervening wall or other permanent barrier between the door and glazing.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the single most important measurement to check for hazardous glazing?

Measure the bottom exposed edge height and then compare area and horizontal proximity per § R324.4.3 — many window hazards turn on the 18 in bottom threshold plus 9 sq ft area and 36 in proximity.

Does tempered glass always satisfy the hazardous‑location rules?

Tempered glass commonly meets the impact requirements, but the glazing must be tested/marked to the appropriate standard (CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Category II or ANSI Z97.1 where allowed) and labeled as required by § R324.1.

If I install sprinklers, can I reduce exterior wall fire‑ratings?

Yes — when the dwelling is protected throughout with an approved automatic residential sprinkler system the exterior wall separation and rating requirements follow Table R302.1(2) (see § R302.1) which allows reduced separations in many cases.

Is glazing in a guardrail always hazardous?

Yes — glazing used in guards and railings is considered a hazardous location regardless of area or height and must be safety glazing per § R324.4.4.

Can decorative glass be exempt?

Decorative glazing is an explicit exception in many hazardous‑location subsections — but the scope of “decorative” is limited; confirm the exception language in each subsection of § R324.4 before assuming exemption.

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