CRC · California Residential Code
What CRC rules govern rooftop solar (PV) and residential energy storage systems?
If you install rooftop solar or a home battery in California, the CRC requires listed equipment (PV modules/inverters/mounts and batteries), structural design of roof areas covered by panels to the load cases in § R329.4.1.1, and ESS siting, spacing and clearance rules in § R330 (including UL 9540 listing and minimum **3 ft** clearances unless listing allows otherwise). Consult the manufacturer listing and the California Electrical and Fire Codes in addition to § R329 and § R330.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
Rooftop solar (PV) and residential energy storage systems (ESS) must be listed and installed per their product standards and manufacturers’ instructions, sized and supported by the roof structure per the CRC load rules, and sited with minimum clearances and access for fire/emergency operations. Key controlling sections are § R329 (solar/PV) and § R330 (energy storage systems) of the California Residential Code (CRC) .
The single most important rule: PV equipment and ESS must be listed to the applicable UL standard and installed per that listing and the manufacturer’s instructions (see § R329.3.1 and § R330.2–R330.3).
Requirements in detail
Scope and listings
- Photovoltaic (PV) systems: must be designed and installed per § R329.3 and related subsections; the electrical portion must comply with the California Electrical Code. Panels/modules, inverters and mounting systems must be listed and labeled to the referenced UL standards (for example UL 1703 / UL 61730‑1 & ‑2 for modules, UL 1741 for inverters, UL 2703 for mounts) — see § R329.3.1.
- Energy Storage Systems (ESS / BESS): must be listed and labeled to UL 9540 and installed per their listing and manufacturer’s instructions — see § R330.2 and § R330.3. Repurposed EV battery systems have a limited exception (outdoor/detached shed placement with setbacks) — see § R330.2 (exception).
Structural and load requirements (PV)
- Roofs supporting PV must be sized and detailed so that:
- Areas not covered by PV are designed for dead and roof loads per Chapter 3 (R301.4, R301.6).
- Areas covered by PV must be designed for the load cases in § R329.4.1.1 (dead load + snow; and dead load excluding PV weight + roof live load or snow, whichever is greater). See § R329.4.1 and § R329.4.1.1.
- Wind loads for PV modules and supports must meet the same component/cladding wind requirements applied via Table R301.2.1(1) and adjustments — see § R329.4.1.2.
Fire classification and roof integrity
- Rooftop PV must have the same fire classification as the roof assembly required by Section R902 (see § R329.4.2 and R907 references). BIPV systems have distinct classification rules in § R329.5 / § R905.15–R905.16.
Roof access, pathways, and setback requirements
- Roof access, pathways and spacing for emergency operations are required per § R329.6; certain exceptions (detached nonhabitable structures, low‑slope roofs ≤ 2:12 (≈17% slope), or where the enforcing agency waives rooftop operations) apply. Roof marking requirements for BIPV-hidden hazards are in § R329.6.4. For additional firefighter pathway details the California Fire Code Section 1205 is referenced (see CRC cross‑references).
Ground‑mounted PV and setbacks
- Ground‑mounted PV follows § R329.8 and Section R301 design; the enforcing agency sets fire separation distances and ground arrays require a clear, brush‑free area of 10 feet (3048 mm) around them. DC conductor routing and conduit placement rules are included in § R329.8.2–R329.8.3.
ESS location, spacing and sizing rules
- Permitted locations for ESS are limited to:
- Detached garages and detached accessory structures,
- Attached garages separated from living space per § R302.6, or
- Outdoors or exterior side of exterior walls at not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors and windows that open directly into the dwelling (unless smaller clearances are allowed by the UL 9540 listing/manufacturer). See § R330.4.
- Separation between units: individual ESS units must be separated by not less than 3 feet (914 mm) unless a different separation is specified by the unit’s listing/manufacturer — see § R330.3.1.
- Exceptions to the full R330 requirements include ESS listed for use in habitable spaces (UL 9540) when installed per listing/manufacturer and ESS under 1 kWh (3.6 MJ) — see § R330.1 (exceptions). Also see the repurposed EV battery exception in § R330.2.
Decision‑relevant dimensions & values (table)
| Decision factor | Typical value / threshold | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| ESS listing requirement | UL 9540 (listed & labeled) | § R330.2 |
| ESS minimum spacing between units | 3 feet (914 mm) unless listing specifies otherwise | § R330.3.1 |
| ESS permitted proximity to doors/windows | Not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors/windows, unless listing allows smaller distance | § R330.4.3 |
| Repurposed EV battery exception setback | 5 feet (1524 mm) from exterior walls/property lines/public ways (when approved and outdoors/detached shed) | § R330.2 (exception) |
| Ground‑mounted PV clear area | 10 feet (3048 mm) clear, brush‑free around arrays | § R329.8.2 |
| Roof slope exception to access requirements | Roofs with slope ≤ 2:12 (≈17%) are exempt from some roof access/pathway rules | § R329.6 (exceptions) |
| PV equipment listings | UL 1703 or UL 61730‑1 & ‑2 (modules), UL 1741 (inverters), UL 2703 (mounts) | § R329.3.1 |
Exceptions & special cases
- BIPV exceptions: BIPV systems listed to UL 3741 that are integrated and shown not to expose firefighters to shock during removal may be treated differently for pathway and marking requirements — see § R329.6.4 and related exceptions.
- ESS small‑capacity & listed for habitable space: ESS under 1 kWh (3.6 MJ) or ESS specifically listed for habitable space per UL 9540 and installed per listing/manufacturer are excepted from some R330 provisions — see § R330.1 (exceptions) and § R330.2.
- Repurposed EV batteries: may be allowed when approved and installed outdoors or in detached sheds with setbacks of 5 ft (1524 mm) — see § R330.2 (exception). This is a limited, approval‑based allowance, not a general permission.
- Local enforcing‑agency authority: fire separation distances for ground‑mounted arrays and some rooftop access/pathway requirements can be set or waived by the enforcing agency — see § R329.8.1 and the exceptions in § R329.6. Also see the California Fire Code provisions for firefighter access (1205) for additional mandatory pathways on rooftops that are not CRC‑exempt.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the CRC covers the electrical details: the CRC defers the electrical design and installation to the California Electrical Code — § R329.3 and R907.1 reference this. Do not omit NEC/CEC requirements.
- Installing ESS inside living spaces without a UL‑listed unit or following the listing/manufacturer instructions — R330 requires UL 9540 listing or use permitted exceptions.
- Failing to design the roof for the required load cases: PV areas must be treated specifically for dead + snow or dead + roof live load per § R329.4.1.1; ignoring this leads to structural noncompliance.
- Ignoring firefighter pathways or DC conductor routing: rooftop layouts must provide access/pathways and minimize conduit across pathways per § R329.6 and § R329.8.3 (and Fire Code Section 1205).
- Misreading BIPV treatment: BIPV has separate fire classification and listing rules (see § R329.5 and § R905). Do not treat BIPV the same as framed, rack‑mounted PV without checking the BIPV listing requirements.
Worked example — single‑family rooftop PV + garage ESS (concrete numbers)
Scenario: A homeowner plans a 600 sq ft rooftop PV array on a single‑family home and wants a 10 kWh (usable) battery bank located in the attached garage.
Step 1 — Equipment listings and instructions:
- Confirm PV modules, inverters and mounts are listed (UL 1703 / UL 61730 / UL 1741 / UL 2703) and install per manufacturer — § R329.3.1.
- Confirm battery ESS is listed to UL 9540 (or qualifies for the habitable‑space exception) and install per manufacturer/listing — § R330.2–R330.3. If UL‑listed for habitable spaces and installed per listing, garage installation rules may differ; otherwise follow R330 location rules.
Step 2 — Structural check:
- Per § R329.4.1.1, the roof area covered by the PV must be designed for:
- Dead load (including PV weight) + snow load, and
- Dead load (excluding PV weight) + roof live load or snow, whichever is greater.
- Action: Have the structural designer verify that the existing roof framing can carry the PV weight and the applicable snow/roof live loads from Table R301.2 (referenced by § R329.4.1.1). If not, the roof structure must be reinforced. (Design reference: § R329.4.1.1)
Step 3 — ESS siting and clearances:
- Attached garage is an allowed location if separated from living space per § R302.6; confirm the garage separation condition is met. (See § R330.4.2 and § R302.6)
- Maintain minimum clearances between ESS units and to doors/windows:
- Keep 3 ft (914 mm) clearance from doors/windows unless the ESS listing permits less — § R330.4.3.
- Provide 3 ft (914 mm) separation between individual ESS units unless the listing specifies otherwise — § R330.3.1.
Step 4 — Fire & access considerations:
- Layout the PV array so required roof access/pathways are preserved per § R329.6 (or determine if any exception applies). Coordinate with the local fire code requirements (California Fire Code Section 1205) for firefighter pathways to/from the roof.
Summary of numeric checks performed:
- ESS spacing to door: ≥ 3 ft (914 mm) (unless listing allows less) — § R330.4.3.
- ESS unit separation: ≥ 3 ft (914 mm) — § R330.3.1.
- Ground‑mounted PV brush‑free area: 10 ft (3048 mm) if applicable — § R329.8.2.
Related provisions (CRC and cross‑references)
- § R329.3 — Photovoltaic systems equipment/listing and electrical code reference.
- § R329.4 — Rooftop‑mounted photovoltaic systems; includes § R329.4.1 (structural & loads), § R329.4.2 (fire classification).
- § R329.6 — Roof access and pathways (fire/emergency access); exceptions and marking for BIPV.
- § R329.8 — Ground‑mounted photovoltaic systems; § R329.8.2 brush‑free area and § R329.8.3 DC conductor routing.
- § R330.1–R330.4 — Entire Energy Storage Systems section (listings, installation, spacing, permitted locations).
- § R907 — Rooftop‑mounted photovoltaic panel systems (cross‑reference / fire classification).
- California Fire Code Section 1205 — Roof access/pathways for PV used by firefighters (referenced by CRC/R329).
- California Electrical Code (CEC/NEC) — governs the electrical portion of PV systems (referenced in § R329.3 and § R907.1).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 1204.6 High relevance — show source text
1204.6 Cords and wiring. Extension cords and temporary wiring used to connect portable generators shall be in accordance with Section 603 and shall be provided with GFCI protection.
1204.7 Connections to premise wiring. Connections to a premise wiring system shall comply with all of the following:
Power shall not be provided in a manner that “back-feeds” receptacles or the premise wiring system.
Connection to a premise served by commercial power shall be made through a listed transfer switch installed, used and maintained in accordance with the California Electrical Code .
Connections to buildings not served by commercial power shall comply with the California Electrical Code .
1204.8 Refueling. Portable generators shall not be refueled while operating.
1204.9 Storage and repair. Storage and repair of fuel-fired portable generators shall comply with Section 313.
1204.10 Fire extinguisher. A listed portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum rating of 2-A:20-B:C shall be provided not more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the portable generator.
SECTION 1205—SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS
1205.1 General. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Building Code or California Resi- dential Code . The electrical portion of solar PV systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code . Rooftopmounted solar photovoltaic systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 1205.2 through 1205.4.3. Ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems shall comply with Section 1205.5.
1205.2 Access and pathways. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1205.2.1 through 1205.3.3. Pathways shall be over areas capable of supporting firefighters accessing the roof. Pathways shall be located in areas with minimal obstructions, such as vent pipes, conduit or mechanical equipment.
Exceptions:
- Detached, nonhabitable Group U structures including, but not limited to, detached garages serving Group R-3 buildings, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures.
- Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements need not be provided where the fire code official has determined that rooftop operations will not be employed.
- Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems where the BIPV systems are approved, integrated into the finished roof surface and are listed in accordance with UL 3741. The removal or cutting away of portions of the BIPV system during firefighting operations shall not expose a firefighter to electrical shock hazards.
1205.2.1 Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for Group R-3 buildings. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for Group R-3 buildings shall comply with Sections 1205.2.1.1 through 1205.2.3.
Exceptions:
These requirements shall not apply to structures designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residen- tial Code .
These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7-percent slope) or less.
CRC § 4.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION R907—ROOFTOP-MOUNTED PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL SYSTEMS
R907.1 Rooftop-mounted (PV) photovoltaic panel systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R329 and the California Electrical Code .
R907.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall have the fire classification as required by Section R902.4.
R907.3 Installation. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R907.4 Photovoltaic panels and modules. Photovoltaic panel systems mounted on top of a roof shall be listed and labeled in accor- dance with UL 2703 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R907.5 Fire safety provisions for photovoltaic panel system. Solar photovoltaic panel systems installed upon a roof or as an integral part of a roof assembly shall comply with the requirements of this code and the California Fire Code.
SECTION R908—REROOFING
R908.1 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
Exceptions:
- Reroofing shall not be required to meet the minimum design slope requirement of one-quarter unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in Section R905 for roofs that provide positive roof drainage.
- For roofs that provide positive drainage, recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall not require the secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers of Section R903.4.1 to be added to an existing roof.
R908.2 Structural and construction loads. The structural roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof covering system and the material and equipment loads that will be encountered during installation of the roof covering system.
R908.3 Roof replacement. Roof replacement shall include the removal of existing layers of roof coverings down to the roof deck.
Exceptions:
- Where the existing roof assembly includes an ice barrier membrane that is adhered to the roof deck and the existing sheathing is not water soaked or deteriorated to the point that it is not adequate as a base for additional roofing, the existing ice barrier membrane shall be permitted to remain in place and covered with an additional layer of ice barrier membrane in accordance with Section R905 where permitted by the roof covering manufacturer and new ice barrier underlayment manufacturer.
- Where the existing roof includes a self-adhered underlayment and the existing sheathing is not water soaked or deteriorated to the point that it is not adequate as a base for additional roofing, the existing self-adhered underlayment shall be
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ROOF ASSEMBLIES
permitted to remain in place and covered with an underlayment complying with Table R905.1.1(1), Table R905.1.1(2) and Table R905.1.1(3). 3.
CRC § 8.1 Medium relevance — show source text
R329.8 Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R301.
R329.8.1 Fire separation distances. Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems shall be subject to the fire separation distance requirements determined by the enforcing agency.
R329.8.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground mounted photovoltaic arrays shall comply with this section and the Cali- fornia Electrical Code. Setback requirements shall not apply to ground-mounted, free-standing photovoltaic arrays. A clear, brush- free area of 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be required for ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays.
R329.8.3 Locations of DC conductors. Conduit, wiring systems and raceways for photovoltaic circuits shall be located as close as possible to the ridge or hip or valley and from the hip or valley as directly as possible to an outside wall to reduce trip hazards and maximize ventilation opportunities. Conduit runs between sub arrays and to DC combiner boxes shall be installed in a manner that minimizes the total amount of conduit on the roof by taking the shortest path from the array to the DC combiner box. The DC combiner boxes shall be located such that conduit runs are minimized in the pathways between arrays. DC wiring shall be installed in metallic conduit or raceways when located within enclosed spaces in a building. Conduit shall run along the bottom of load bearing members.
SECTION R330—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
R330.1 General. Energy storage systems (ESS) shall comply with the provisions of this section.
Exceptions:
- ESS listed and labeled for use in habitable spaces, in accordance with UL 9540 and where installed in accordance with the listing, the manufacturer’s instructions and the California Electrical Code.
- ESS less than 1 kWh (3.6 megajoules).
R330.2 Equipment listings. Energy storage systems (ESS) shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 9540.
Exception: Where approved, repurposed unlisted battery systems from electric vehicles are allowed to be installed outdoors or in detached sheds located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from exterior walls, property lines and public ways.
R330.3 Installation. ESS shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing.
R330.3.1 Spacing. Individual units shall be separated from each other by not less than 3 feet (914 mm) except where other separation distances are specified by the ESS listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R330.4 Locations. ESS shall be installed only in the following locations:
- Detached garages and detached accessory structures.
- Attached garages separated from the dwelling unit living space in accordance with Section R302.6.
- Outdoors or on the exterior side of exterior walls located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors and windows directly entering the dwelling unit, except where smaller separation distances are permitted by the UL 9540 listing and manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CRC § 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1741—2010: Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment with Distributed Energy Resources—with Revisions through June 2021
R329.3.1, R330.6
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REFERENCED STANDARDS
1777—2015: Chimney Liners—with Revisions through April 2019
R1003.11.1, R1003.18
1897—2015: Uplift Tests for Roof Covering Systems—with Revisions through September 2020
R905.4.4.1, R905.9.4, R905.10.5, R905.11.4, R905.12.4, R905.13.4, R905.14.4
2034—2017: Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide Alarms—with Revisions through September 2018
R310.1.1, R311.1.1
2075—2013: Gas and Vapor Detectors and Sensors—with Revisions through August 2021
R310.7.4, R311.7.1, R311.7.4
2200—2020: Stationary Engine Generator Assemblies
R331.1
2703—2014: Mounting Systems, Mounting Devices, Clamping/Retention Devices and Ground Lugs for Use with Flat-Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels—with Revisions through March 2021
R902.4
3741—2020: Photovoltaic Hazard Control
R329.6, R329.6.3, R329.6.4
7103—2019: Outline of Investigation for Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Roof Coverings R902.3, R905.15.4, Table R905.15.6, R905.16.5, R905.16.7
9540 Edition 2—2020 : Standard for Energy Storage Systems and Equipment—with Revisions through April 2021
330.1, 330.4, R330.2, R330.6
9540A Edition 4 —2019: Test Method for Evaluating Thermal Runaway Fire Propagation in Battery Energy Storage Systems
R330.1, R330.2, R330.4, R330.6
61730-1—2017: Photovoltaic (PV) Module Safety Qualification — Part 1: Requirements for Construction—with Revisions through April 2020
R329.3.1
61730-2—2017: Photovoltaic (PV) Module Safety Qualification — Part 2: Requirements for Testing —with Revisions through April
2020
R329.3.1, R905.15.4, R905.16.5
UL 2202—2009: Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging System—with revisions through February 2018
R317.6
UL 2594—2016: Standard for Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment
R317.6
ULC ULC 13775 Commerce Parkway Richmond, BC V6V 2V4
CAN/ULC S 102.2—2018: Standard Method of Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and Assemblies
R302.10.1, R302.10.2
CRC § 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
R329.3 Photovoltaic systems. Photovoltaic ( PV ) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.3.1 through R329.8.1 and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The electrical portion of solar PV systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
R329.3.1 Equipment listings. Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction. Mounting systems listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2703 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listings. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof coverings and BIPV roof assemblies shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.
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BUILDING PLANNING
R329.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section.
R329.4.1 Structural requirements. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed to structurally support the system and withstand applicable gravity loads in accordance with Chapter 3. The roof on which these systems are installed shall be designed and constructed to support the loads imposed by such systems in accordance with Chapter 8.
R329.4.1.1 Roof load. Portions of roof structures not covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for dead loads and roof loads in accordance with Sections R301.4 and R301.6. Portions of roof structures covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for the following load cases:
- Dead load (including photovoltaic panel weight) plus snow load in accordance with Table R301.2.
- Dead load (excluding photovoltaic panel weight) plus roof live load or snow load, whichever is greater, in accordance with Section R301.6.
R329.4.1.2 Wind load. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel or module systems and their supports shall be designed and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).
R329.4.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall have the same fire classification as the roof assembly required in Section R902.
R329.4.3 Roof penetrations. Roof penetrations shall be flashed and sealed in accordance with Chapter 9.
R329.5 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.5.1 through R329.5.2.
R329.5.1 BIPV roofing systems. BIPV roofing systems shall comply with Section R905.15. BIPV roof panels shall comply with Section R905.16.
R329.5.1.1 Fire classification. Building-integrated photovoltaic systems shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section R902.3.
CRC § 16.6 Medium relevance — show source text
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ROOF ASSEMBLIES
R905.16.6 Attachment. BIPV roof panels shall be attached in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R905.16.7 Wind resistance of BIPV roof panels. BIPV roof panels shall be tested in accordance with UL 7103 and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).
SECTION R906—ROOF INSULATION
R906.1 General. Where above-deck thermal insulation is installed, such insulation shall be covered with an approved roof covering and shall comply with NFPA 276 or UL 1256.
R906.2 Material standards. Above-deck thermal insulation board shall comply with the standards in Table R906.2.
TABLE R906.2—MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR ROOF INSULATION Col2 MATERIAL STANDARD Cellular glass board ASTM C552or ASTM C1902 Composite boards ASTM C1289, Type III, IV, V or VI Expanded polystyrene ASTM C578 Extruded polystyrene board ASTM C578 Fiber-reinforced gypsum board ASTM C1278 Glass-faced gypsum board ASTM C1177 Mineral wool board ASTM C726 Perlite board ASTM C728 Polyisocyanurate board ASTM C1289, Type I or II Wood fiberboard ASTM C208 SECTION R907—ROOFTOP-MOUNTED PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL SYSTEMS
R907.1 Rooftop-mounted (PV) photovoltaic panel systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R329 and the California Electrical Code .
R907.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall have the fire classification as required by Section R902.4.
R907.3 Installation. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R907.4 Photovoltaic panels and modules. Photovoltaic panel systems mounted on top of a roof shall be listed and labeled in accor- dance with UL 2703 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R907.5 Fire safety provisions for photovoltaic panel system. Solar photovoltaic panel systems installed upon a roof or as an integral part of a roof assembly shall comply with the requirements of this code and the California Fire Code.
SECTION R908—REROOFING
R908.1 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
CRC § 2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Fiber-cement R704.2.2, R704.3.2 Hardboard R704.2.3, R704.3.3 Vinyl R704.2.1, R704.3.1 Wood R704.2.4, R704.3.4 Solar Energy Systems R329 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems R329.5 Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems R329.8 Photovoltaic systems R329.3 Roof access and pathways R329.6 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems R329.3 Sound Transmission Appendix BG Spans Steel (allowable) R505.3.2, R804.3.2.1 Wood (allowable) R502.3, R802.5 Sprinkler (see Automatic Sprinkler System) Stairways R318.7 Alternating tread devices R318.7.12 Bulkhead enclosure R318.7.11.2 Glazing R324.4.6 Guards R321
Handrails R318.7.8, R320 Headroom R318.7.2
Illumination R318.7.10, R325.6, R325.7 Landings for R318.7.6 Nosings R318.7.5.3 Ship’s ladders R318.7.13 Sleeping lofts R315.5.2 Spiral R318.7.11 Treads and risers R318.7.5, R318.7.5.4 Vertical egress R318.4 Vertical rise R318.7.3 Walking surface slope R318.7.7 Walkline R318.7.4
Width R318.7.1
Winder treads R318.7.5.2.1
Standards Appendix CD, Chapter 44 Stationary Engine Generators R329 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems R330 Steel
Fireplace units R1001.5.1 Floor construction R505 Roof-ceiling construction R804 Walls R603
Stop Work Order R114 Storm Shelters R106.1.5, R323 Story Above Grade Plane R101.2, R301.2.2.7, R316.3 Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) R610 Studs
Spacing R602.3.1 Steel R603.2, R603.3 Wood R602.2, R602.3 Sunrooms R301.2.1.1.1, R325.1.2
Support Decks R507.9.1.2 Floor joists R502.6, R505.3.2 Masonry chimneys R1003.2, R1003.3, R1003.4
Temporary Structures R107 Termination Of chimneys R1003.9 Termites Infestation probability map Figure R305.4 Protection R305 Thermal Resistance (see R -Value) Thermal Transmittance (see U -Factor) Ties
Veneer R703.8.4
Tile Shingles (clay and concrete) R905.3 Tiny Houses Appendix BB Toddler
CRC § 1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
R328.1.3 Interior doors. Effective July 1, 2024, at least one bathroom and one bedroom on the entry level shall provide a doorway with a net clear opening of not less than 32 inches (812.8 mm), measured with the door positioned at an angle of 90 degrees from the closed position; or, in the case of a two- or three-story single family dwelling, on the second or third floor of the dwelling if a bathroom or bedroom is not located on the entry level.
R328.1.4 Doorbell buttons. Doorbell buttons or controls, when installed, shall not exceed 48 inches (1219.2 mm) above exterior floor or landing, measured from the top of the doorbell button assembly. Where doorbell buttons integrated with other features are required to be installed above 48 inches (1219.2 mm) measured from the exterior floor or landing, a standard doorbell button or control shall also be provided at a height not exceeding 48 inches (1219.2 mm) above exterior floor or landing, measured from the top of the doorbell button or control.
SECTION R329—SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
R329.1 General. Solar energy systems shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R329.2 Solar thermal systems. Solar thermal systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code and the California Fire Code.
R329.3 Photovoltaic systems. Photovoltaic ( PV ) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.3.1 through R329.8.1 and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The electrical portion of solar PV systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
R329.3.1 Equipment listings. Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction. Mounting systems listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2703 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listings. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof coverings and BIPV roof assemblies shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.
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BUILDING PLANNING
R329.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section.
R329.4.1 Structural requirements. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed to structurally support the system and withstand applicable gravity loads in accordance with Chapter 3. The roof on which these systems are installed shall be designed and constructed to support the loads imposed by such systems in accordance with Chapter 8.
CRC § 3110.3 Medium relevance — show source text
3110.3 Vehicular gate openers. Vehicular gate openers, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
SECTION 3111—SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
3111.1 General. Solar energy systems shall comply with the requirements of this section.
3111.1.1 Wind resistance. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems and solar thermal collectors shall be designed in accordance with Section 1609.
Exception: [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC, HCD-1, HCD-2] Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems and solar thermal collectors shall be designed in accordance with Section 1511.10 of this code.
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SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION
3111.1.2 Roof live load. Roof structures that provide support for solar energy systems shall be designed in accordance with Section 1607.15.
3111.2 Solar thermal systems. Solar thermal systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section, the California Plumbing Code, the California Mechanical Code and the California Fire Code . Where light-transmitting plastic covers are used, solar thermal collectors shall be designed in accordance with Section 2606.12.
3111.2.1 Equipment. Solar thermal systems and components shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ICC 900/SRCC 300 and ICC 901/SRCC 100.
3111.3 Photovoltaic solar energy systems. Photovoltaic solar energy systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section, the California Fire Code, the California Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
3111.3.1 Equipment. Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.
3111.3.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.9. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems installed as roof coverings shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.8.
3111.3.3 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. BIPV systems installed as roof coverings shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 1507.
[F] 3111.3.4 Access and pathways. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements shall be provided in accordance with Section 1205 of the California Fire Code .
3111.3.5 Elevated photovoltaic (PV) support structures. Elevated PV support structures shall comply with either Section 3111.3.5.1 or 3111.3.5.2.
Exception: Elevated PV support structures that are installed over agricultural uses.
CRC § 2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
Design criteria R301.1, R301.2.2, R301.3
Service Utilities R111
Shakes
Wood R702.6, R703.6, R905.8 Shingle Asphalt shingles R905.2 Metal R905.4
Slate R905.6
Wood R905.7 Ship’s Ladders (see Ladders) R318.7.13 Shower R326.1, R327 Compartment R327.2 Finishes R327.2 Glazing R324.3.1, R324.4.5 Space required R327.1 Shutoff Valve (see Valves) Siding Exterior coverings R703 Sinks (see also Lavatories) R326.2 Site
Address R308
Preparation R408.5, R504.2, R506.3 Size
Of rooms R312 Skylights R324.6
Slate Shingles R905.6 Sleeping Lofts R315 Smoke Alarms R310
Smoke-Developed Index R302.10, R302.9 Snow Loads R301.1, Figure R301.2(3) Decks R507.1, R507.5, R507.6 Floors R502.3.3, R505.1.1 Foundation R403.1
Roof R301.6, R329.4.1.1, R802.10.2.1, R802.4.1, R804.3.2.1 Walls R602.3.1, R602.7, R603.3.2 Soffit R704
Fiber-cement R704.2.2, R704.3.2 Hardboard R704.2.3, R704.3.3 Vinyl R704.2.1, R704.3.1 Wood R704.2.4, R704.3.4 Solar Energy Systems R329 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems R329.5 Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems R329.8 Photovoltaic systems R329.3 Roof access and pathways R329.6 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems R329.3 Sound Transmission Appendix BG Spans Steel (allowable) R505.3.2, R804.3.2.1 Wood (allowable) R502.3, R802.5 Sprinkler (see Automatic Sprinkler System) Stairways R318.7 Alternating tread devices R318.7.12 Bulkhead enclosure R318.7.11.2 Glazing R324.4.6 Guards R321
Handrails R318.7.8, R320 Headroom R318.7.2
Illumination R318.7.10, R325.6, R325.7 Landings for R318.7.6 Nosings R318.7.5.3 Ship’s ladders R318.7.13 Sleeping lofts R315.5.2 Spiral R318.7.11 Treads and risers R318.7.5, R318.7.5.4 Vertical egress R318.4 Vertical rise R318.7.3 Walking surface slope R318.7.7 Walkline R318.7.4
Width R318.7.1
CRC § 3-75 Medium relevance — show source text
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BUILDING PLANNING
R329.6.4 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Where building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems are installed in a manner creating areas with electrical hazards that are hidden from view, markings shall be provided to identify the hazardous areas to avoid for ladder placement. The markings shall be reflective and be visible from grade beneath the eaves or other location approved by the fire code official.
Exception: BIPV systems listed in accordance with UL 3741, where the removal or cutting away of portions of the BIPV system during firefighting operations have been determined to not expose a firefighter to electrical shock hazards.
R329.7 Elevated photovoltaic (PV) support structures. Elevated PV support structures used as an accessory structure shall comply with either Section R329.7.1 or R329.7.2. Elevated PV support structures shall be considered a roof for the purposes of establishing the number of stories and fire separation distances.
Exception : Elevated PV support structures that are installed over agricultural use.
R329.7.1 PV panels installed over open-grid framing or noncombustible deck. Elevated PV support structures with PV panels installed over open-grid framing or over a noncombustible deck shall have PV panels tested, listed and labeled with a fire type rating in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Photovoltaic panels marked “not fire rated” shall not be installed on elevated PV support structures.
R329.7.2 PV panels installed over a roof assembly. Elevated PV support structures with a PV panel system installed over a roof assembly shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section R902.4 and Section R329.4.
R329.8 Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R301.
R329.8.1 Fire separation distances. Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems shall be subject to the fire separation distance requirements determined by the enforcing agency.
R329.8.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground mounted photovoltaic arrays shall comply with this section and the Cali- fornia Electrical Code. Setback requirements shall not apply to ground-mounted, free-standing photovoltaic arrays. A clear, brush- free area of 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be required for ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays.
R329.8.3 Locations of DC conductors. Conduit, wiring systems and raceways for photovoltaic circuits shall be located as close as possible to the ridge or hip or valley and from the hip or valley as directly as possible to an outside wall to reduce trip hazards and maximize ventilation opportunities. Conduit runs between sub arrays and to DC combiner boxes shall be installed in a manner that minimizes the total amount of conduit on the roof by taking the shortest path from the array to the DC combiner box. The DC combiner boxes shall be located such that conduit runs are minimized in the pathways between arrays. DC wiring shall be installed in metallic conduit or raceways when located within enclosed spaces in a building. Conduit shall run along the bottom of load bearing members.
SECTION R330—ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
CRC § 140.9 Medium relevance — show source text
- In a jurisdiction where gas heating is allowed.
Exception 4 to Section 140.9(c)6: Buildings with an exhaust air heat recovery system and heat recovery chillers designed to provide at least 40 percent of the peak heating load from exhaust heat recovery.
Exception 5 to Section 140.9(c)6: Exhaust systems requiring wash down systems such as exhaust systems dedicated to perchloric acid fume hoods.
Exception to Section 140.9(c): Healthcare facilities.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.8 and 25943, Public Resources Code.
SECTION 140.10—PRESCRIPTIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC AND BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
(a) Photovoltaic requirements. All newly constructed building types specified in Table 140.10-A, or mixed occupancy buildings where at least 80 percent of the floor area of the building serves one or more of these building types, shall have a newly installed photovoltaic (PV) system meeting the minimum qualification requirements of Reference Joint Appendix JA11. The PV capacity in kW dc shall not be less than the smaller of the minimum rated PV system capacity determined by Equation 140.10-A, or the total of all available solar access roof areas (SARA) multiplied by 18 for steep-sloped roofs or multiplied by 14 for low-sloped roofs. In mixed occupancy buildings, the minimum rated PV system capacity for the building shall be determined by applying Equation 140.10-A to the conditioned floor area of each of the listed building types and summing the capacities determined for each.
SARA includes the area of the building’s roof space capable of structurally supporting a PV system, and the area of all roof space on covered parking areas, carports and all other newly constructed structures on the site that are compatible with supporting a PV system per Title 24, Part 2, Section 1511.10.
SARA does NOT include:
A. Any area that has less than 70 percent annual solar access. Annual solar access is determined by dividing the total annual solar insolation (accounting for shading obstructions) by the total annual solar insolation if the same areas were unshaded by those obstructions. For all roofs, all obstructions, including those that are external to the building, and obstructions that are part of the building design and elevation features may be considered for the annual solar access calculations.
B. Occupied roofs as specified by CBC Section 503.1.4. C. Roof area that is otherwise not available due to compliance with: i. Other state building code requirements; or ii. Local building code requirements if the local building code requirements are confirmed by the Executive Director.
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NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE
COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
EQUATION 140.10-A—PHOTOVOLTAIC DIRECT CURRENT CAPACITY
kW PVdc = (CFA × A)/1000
where:
kW PVdc = Minimum rated PV system capacity in kW.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put an ESS inside my house (living room or closet)?
Only if the ESS is specifically listed for use in habitable spaces (UL 9540) and installed exactly per its listing and the manufacturer’s instructions. Otherwise, R330 limits ESS locations to detached or separated garages, outdoors/exterior walls, or approved detached sheds. § R330.1–R330.4.
How close can I mount a battery to a door or window?
As installed, ESS must be located not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from doors and windows that open directly into the dwelling unless the ESS listing or manufacturer allows a smaller distance. § R330.4.3.
Do I need a structural upgrade to add roof solar?
Possibly. The roof areas covered by PV must be designed for the load cases in § R329.4.1.1 (dead + snow; and dead excluding PV + roof live or snow). If the existing framing doesn’t meet those requirements, reinforcement is required. § R329.4.1.1.
Are DC conductors allowed to cross firefighter pathways on the roof?
DC conductors and conduit runs should be routed to minimize crossing access/pathways and should be located as close to ridges/hips/valleys and to outside walls as practicable — see § R329.8.3 and roof access rules in § R329.6. The California Fire Code Section 1205 also governs rooftop access/pathways for firefighters.
What listing standards apply to modules, inverters and mounts?
PV modules: UL 1703 or UL 61730‑1 & ‑2; inverters: UL 1741 (utility‑interactive inverters listed for grid connection); mounting systems: UL 2703. See § R329.3.1.
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