CRC · California Residential Code
Definitions of 'Access' and related access terms
In the California Residential Code, **§ R202** defines **ACCESS (TO)** to mean that an appliance, device, or equipment is reachable either directly (ready access) or by first removing or moving a panel, door or similar obstruction — the definition clarifies the concept but does not provide numeric clearance requirements; those dimensions come from appliance instructions or other code sections.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
The California Residential Code defines ACCESS (TO) as what makes a device, appliance or equipment reachable either by ready access or by access that first requires removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction — see § R202. In short: the CRC treats both direct reach and reach requiring removal of an access panel as “access.” § R202 is the controlling definition.
The single most important point: If you can reach an appliance or its service point either directly or by removing a panel/door, the CRC considers that point to have access (see § R202).
Requirements in detail
Core definition (what to read and how to apply it)
- Defined term: ACCESS (TO) — “That which enables a device, an appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction.” — § R202.
- The definition is descriptive, not dimensional: § R202 states what counts as access but does not give minimum opening sizes, clearance distances, or service working space. Those dimensions, when required, come from appliance/manufacturer instructions or other chapters (or other codes).
How the definition is used (decision dimensions)
Use the table below to decide whether a particular installation satisfies “access” as the CRC defines it.
| Decision question | Acceptable value per CRC | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Can the component be reached without removing anything? | Yes → counts as ready access (part of ACCESS (TO)) | § R202 |
| Is removal of an access panel/door required to reach the component? | Yes → still counts as ACCESS (TO) (removal permitted) | § R202 |
| Does CRC R202 specify numeric clearances (inches/feet) for access openings? | No — R202 defines the concept only; dimensions are found elsewhere (manufacturer instructions, appliance-specific requirements, or other code sections) | § R202 |
| Is “accessible” or “accessible, readily” defined in CRC R202? | Not in R202 — related definitions appear in other California codes (CBC, Mechanical, Plumbing) | See CBC §202 and Cal. Mechanical/Plumbing Code definitions |
Practical points inspectors and designers should note
- The CRC’s R202 definition is outcome-focused: if the design permits reaching the equipment either directly or after removing a panel/door, the requirement in R202 is satisfied.
- R202 does not change accessibility requirements for persons with disabilities (those are in accessibility chapters or other codes). If accessibility for people (not just service access) is required, consult the California Building Code accessibility provisions (Chapter 11/11B) and CRC accessibility chapter R322 as applicable.
Exceptions & special cases
- R202 is a definitions section — it does not provide exceptions to construction or clearance rules. It only establishes what the word “access (to)” means for the CRC context.
- Where the CRC requires an element to be “readily accessible,” that phrase is not defined in R202. Other California codes (for equipment, mechanical, and plumbing) define Accessible and Accessible, Readily; those definitions should be used to interpret requirements that call for “readily accessible.” For example, the California Mechanical and Plumbing Codes define “Accessible” and “Accessible, Readily.”
- Accessibility obligations for people with disabilities are governed by the California Building Code (Chapter 11A/11B); do not conflate the CRC’s equipment/service access definition with accessible routes or accessible elements required for human use.
Common mistakes
- Mistake: “If a panel must be removed, the code says the appliance is not accessible.” — Wrong. R202 explicitly counts removal-of-panel access as access.
- Mistake: Using § R202 to determine required clearances (inches/feet) around equipment. — R202 gives only a definition; it does not set clearance dimensions. Look to appliance instructions, specific installation sections, or other codes for numeric clearance/working-space requirements.
- Mistake: Treating “access” (service reach) as identical to an accessible route for people with disabilities. — These are different concepts; accessible routes and accessible elements are defined in the California Building Code and Chapter 11 provisions.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A gas water heater is installed in a closet. The service shutoff and regulator are behind a removable 12 in × 12 in access panel located on the closet wall. The closet door swings closed; when closed the access panel is behind the door and must be removed to reach the valve.
- Step 1 — Apply the CRC definition: Can the device (shutoff/regulator) be reached either by ready access or by removal of a panel/door? In this scenario the valve is reachable by removal of the 12 in × 12 in panel. Under § R202 that counts as ACCESS (TO).
- Step 2 — Are there numeric clearance requirements in R202? No — R202 does not set required dimensions for the opening or working space. If a specific appliance standard or the Mechanical/Plumbing Code requires a minimum opening or working space, follow that requirement. R202 only confirms that the panel-removal means provides “access.”
- Result: Under the CRC definition the shutoff is “accessible” in the sense of ACCESS (TO) because it can be reached by removing the panel. Check appliance/manufacturer data and the applicable mechanical/plumbing chapters for minimum working-space or access opening size requirements.
Related provisions (CRC sections)
- § R202 — Definitions (controls the definition of ACCESS (TO)).
- § R408.4 — Crawl space access (access-specific provisions for crawlspaces referenced in the CRC index).
- § R318.1 — Means of egress / public way references (access as it relates to egress is addressed elsewhere in egress chapters cited in the CRC index).
- § R319.1 — Emergency escape and rescue openings (access considerations for egress windows).
- § R322 — Accessibility (CRC chapter addressing accessibility requirements where applicable).
- § R323 — Elevators and platform lifts (access/operation of elevators and platform lifts in residential construction).
(If you need the exact appliance-clearance or working-space numbers for a specific device, we should pull the appliance-specific CRC/Mechanical/Plumbing section or the manufacturer instructions — R202 itself does not provide numeric dimensions.)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 1.11 High relevance — show source text
R201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
R201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code such terms shall have the meanings ascribed in the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
R201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION R202—DEFINITIONS
[RB] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, an appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2)
[RB] ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A structure that is accessory to and incidental to that of the dwelling(s) or townhouse(s) and that is located on the same lot.
[RB] ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area, number of stories or height of a building or structure.
[RB] ADHERED STONE OR MASONRY VENEER. Stone or masonry veneer secured and supported through the adhesion of an approved bonding material applied to an approved backing.
AGED HOME OR INSTITUTION. A facility used for the housing of persons 65 years of age or older in need of care and supervision. (See defi- nition of “care and supervision.”)
[MP] AIR, OUTDOOR. Ambient air that enters a building through a ventilation system, through intentional openings for natural ventilation or by infiltration.
[MP] AIR, TRANSFER. Air moved from one indoor space to another.
[MP] AIR ADMITTANCE VALVE. A one-way valve designed to allow air into the plumbing drainage system where a negative pressure develops in the piping. This device shall close by gravity and seal the terminal under conditions of zero differential pressure (no flow conditions) and under positive internal pressure.
[MP] AIR BREAK (DRAINAGE SYSTEM). An arrangement where a discharge pipe from a fixture, appliance or device drains indirectly into a receptor below the flood-level rim of the receptor and above the trap seal.
[MP] AIR CIRCULATION, FORCED. A means of providing space conditioning utilizing movement of air through ducts or plenums by mechanical means.
[MP] AIR GAP, DRAINAGE SYSTEM. The unobstructed vertical distance through free atmosphere between the outlet of a waste pipe and the flood-level rim of the fixture or receptor into which it is discharging.
CRC § 2-3 Medium relevance — show source text
SYSTEM||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |VENTILATION||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |WATER HEATER||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |WHOLE-HOUSE MECHANICAL
VENTILATION SYSTEM||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE (WUI)|||X|||||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: †
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Part II—Definitions
2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to definitions in this chapter preceded by a bracketed letter are considered by the IRC—Building Code Development Committee [RB], the IRC—Mechanical/Plumbing Code Development Committee [MP] or the IECC—Residential Code Development Committee [RE] during the Group B (2025) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION R201—GENERAL
R201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings indicated in this chapter.
R201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
R201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code such terms shall have the meanings ascribed in the California Building Standards Code, Title 24, California Code of Regulations.
R201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION R202—DEFINITIONS
[RB] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, an appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2)
CRC § 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Energy Code, Califor- nia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Green Building Standards Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
[BS] AAC MASONRY. Masonry made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) units, manufactured without internal reinforcement and bonded together using thin- or thick-bed mortar.
ACCESS AISLE. [DSA-AC] An accessible space adjacent to or between vehicle spaces that provides clearances in compliance with this code.
ACCESSIBILITY. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] The combination of various elements in a building, facility, site or area, or portion thereof which allows access, circulation and the full use of the building and facilities by persons with disabilities in compliance with this code.
ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON. [DSA-AC] A button on an elevator hall call console in a destination-oriented elevator system that when pressed will activate a series of visual and verbal prompts and announcements providing instruction regarding hall call console operation and direction to an assigned elevator.
ACCESSIBLE. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] A site, building, facility, or portion thereof that is approachable and usable by persons with disabili- ties in compliance with this code.
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT. [DSA-AC] An element specified by the regulations adopted by the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance.
[BE] ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to a public way.
CRC § 2.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
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Concrete Capillary break R506.2.3.1 Compressive strength R402.2 Floors (on ground) R506 Tile (roof) R905.3 Weathering Figure R301.2(1), R402.2 Construction
3D-printed Appendix BM Cavity wall masonry R608 Cob Appendix BK Extended plate walls Appendix BN Flood-resistant R306
Floors Chapter 5 Footings R403 Foundation material R402
Foundation walls R404
Foundations Chapter 4 Hemp-lime Appendix BL Masonry R606, R607, R608, R610 Pollutant control R340 Roofs Chapter 8 Steel framing R505, R603, R804 Strawbale Appendix BJ Straw-clay Appendix BI Walls Chapter 6 Waste R334.1 Wood framing R502, R602, R802 Construction Documents R106, R306.3.9
Court Emergency escape and rescue openings R319.1, R319.2.4 Means of egress R318.1 Natural light R325.1.1 Covering Exterior R703
Interior R702 Roof Chapter 9 Wall Chapter 7 Crawl Space R408
Access R408.4
Damper Fireplace R1001.7.1 Dampproofing R406 Day Care Appendix BD Defined R202 Large family day-care homes R336 Dead Loads R301.4
Decay Protection against R304 Deck
Attachment R318.5 Supported by exterior wall R507 Wood/plastic composite boards R507.2.2
Definitions Building R202 Mechanical system R202 Plumbing R202 Design Criteria R301 Alternative provisions R301.1.1 Application R301.1 Climatic and geographic R301.2 Dead load R301.4
Deflection R301.6 Engineered design R301.1.3
Accessibility R322 Accessory Dwelling Unit R202 Authority to Enforce Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems 1.8.9.1, R313.2 Accessory Structure Elevations R306.3.2
Energy R330.5 Exterior walls R302.1
Scope R101.2 Addition (see also Existing Buildings) Carbon monoxide alarms R311.2.2 Change of occupancy R110.1 Construction R302.2.3
CRC § 9.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Defined R202 Chimneys Caps R1003.9.1 Clearance R1003.18 Corbeling R1003.5 Crickets R1003.20 Design (masonry) R1003.1 Factory-built R1005 Fireblocking R1003.19 Fireplaces Chapter 10 Flue area R1003.14, R1003.15 Flue lining R1003.11 Load R1003.8 Multiple flue R1003.14 Rain caps R1003.9.3 Spark arrestors R1003.9.2 Termination R1003.9
Wall thickness R1003.10
Clay Tiles R905.3
Cleanout Masonry chimney R1003.17 Climate Types R301.2 Climate Zones R202, R702.7.3, Table R702.7(5) Columns R407
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INDEX
Live load R301.5
Nominal sizes R301.8
Roof load R301.6
Seismic R301.2.2
Snow loads R301.2.3 Story height R301.3 Sunrooms R301.2.1.1.1
Wind R301.2.1
Doors
Egress R318.2 Exterior R318.3, R609 Glazing R324 Draftstopping R302.12, R502.13 Drainage Foundation R405 Site drainage R300 Ducts
Defined R202 Dwelling-garage wall and ceiling penetration R302.5.2 System, definition R202 Dwelling Unit Separation R302.2, R302.3 Sprinklers (see Automatic Sprinkler System)
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations R317.6 Elevator R323.1, R323.3 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings R319
Additions R319.6
Area wells R319.4 Bars, grilles, covers and screens R319.4.4
Basements, existing R319.7 Dimensions R319.2
Doors R319.3
Replacement window R319.5 Under decks and porches R319.2.4 Where required R319.1 Window fall protection R321.2 Emergency Housing Appendix CJ Energy Storage Systems R328 ESS vehicle impact protection Figure R330.8.1 Maximum aggregate ratings of ESS Table R330.5 Protection from impact R330.8 Toxic and highly toxic gas R330.12 Entry 1.8.5, R104.4 Existing Buildings Appendix BO Administrative R101.2, R102.6, R105.1, R105.8, R106.2, R113.1, R113.2 Basements R313.1.2, R319.7 Carbon monoxide alarms R311.2.2, R311.5, R311.6 Flood R104.3.1
CRC § 1.9.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 1018—AISLES
[DSA-AC] In addition to the requirements of this section, means of egress, which provide access to, or egress from, buildings or facilities
— where accessibility is required for applications listed in Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect Access Compliance, shall also comply with Chapter 11A or Chapter 11B, Section 11B-403, as applicable.
1018.1 General. Aisles and aisle accessways serving as a portion of the exit access in the means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. Aisles or aisle accessways shall be provided from all occupied portions of the exit access that contain seats, tables, furnishings, displays and similar fixtures or equipment. The minimum width or required capacity of aisles shall be unobstructed.
Exception: Encroachments complying with Section 1005.7.
1018.2 Aisles in assembly spaces. Aisles and aisle accessways serving a room or space used for assembly purposes shall comply with Section 1030.
1018.3 Aisles in Groups B and M. In Group B and M occupancies, the minimum clear aisle width shall be determined by Section 1005.1 for the occupant load served, but shall be not less than that required for corridors by Section 1020.3.
Exception: Nonpublic aisles serving less than 50 people and not required to be accessible by Chapter 11B, (see Section 11B-403) need not exceed 28 inches (711 mm) in width.
1018.4 Aisle accessways in Group M. An aisle accessway shall be provided on not less than one side of each element within the merchandise pad. The minimum clear width for an aisle accessway not required to be accessible shall be 30 inches (762 mm). The required clear width of the aisle accessway shall be measured perpendicular to the elements and merchandise within the merchandise pad. The 30-inch (762 mm) minimum clear width shall be maintained to provide a path to an adjacent aisle or aisle accessway. The common path of egress travel shall not exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) from any point in the merchandise pad.
Exception: For areas serving not more than 50 occupants, the common path of egress travel shall not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm).
1018.5 Aisles in other than assembly spaces and Groups B and M. In other than rooms or spaces used for assembly purposes and Group B and M occupancies, the minimum clear aisle capacity shall be determined by Section 1005.1 for the occupant load served, but the width shall be not less than that required for corridors by Section 1020.3.
Exception: Nonpublic aisles serving less than 50 people and not required to be accessible by Chapter 11B, (see Section 11B-403) need not exceed 28 inches (711 mm) in width.
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MEANS OF EGRESS
SECTION 1019—EXIT ACCESS STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS
1019.1 General. Exit access stairways and ramps serving as an exit access component in a means of egress system shall comply with the requirements of this section. The number of stories connected by exit access stairways and ramps shall include basements, but not mezzanines.
CRC § 204.0 Medium relevance — show source text
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|||X|X|X|||||X|X|X|X|X|X|X||||||||| |Adopting Agency
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amended (amended sections
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CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
201.0 General.
201.1 Applicability. For the purpose of this code, the following terms have the meanings indicated in this chapter.
No attempt is made to define ordinary words, which are used in accordance with their established dictionary meanings, except where a word has been used loosely, and it is necessary to define its meaning as used in this code to avoid misunderstanding.
202.0 Definition of Terms.
202.1 General. The definitions of terms are arranged alphabetically according to the first word of the term.
203.0 – A –
Absorption Unit. An absorption refrigeration system that has been factory-assembled and tested prior to its installation.
Accepted Engineering Practice. That which conforms to technical or scientific-based principles, test, or standards that are accepted by the engineering profession.
Access Panel. A closure device used to cover an opening into a duct, an enclosure, equipment, or an appurtenance.
[NFPA 96:3.3.1]
Accessible. Where applied to a device, appliance, or equipment, “accessible” means having access thereto, but which first may require the removal of an access panel, door, or similar obstruction.
Accessible, Readily. Having a direct access without the necessity of removing a panel, door, or similar obstruction.
CRC § 2.3 Medium relevance — show source text
SIP R610.8
Steel R603.6
Wood R602.7
Hearth R1001.9
Extension R1001.10, R1001.9
Heaters
Masonry R1002 Heating Required R325.8 Height Ceiling R313 Mezzanines R314.2 Sleeping lofts R315.3 Hollow-Unit Masonry (see Masonry)
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INDEX
Roof shingles R905.4 Methods Water distribution pipe sizing Appendix CF Mezzanines (see also Sleeping Lofts) R314, R321 Modifications R104.2.3 Moisture Content, Building Materials R109.1.4.1
Moisture Control R702.7
Mortar
Joints R606.3.1 Multiple Flues R1003.13
Natural Light (see Light) Natural Ventilation (see Ventilation) Notching Steel joists R505.2.5, R505.3.5, R804.2.5, R804.3.3 Steel studs R603.2.6, R603.3.4 Wood joists R502.8, R802.7.1 Wood studs R602.6 Wood top plates R602.6.1
Opening Protection R302.5
Parapets R302.2.2, R606.4.4 Particleboard
Floor R503.3
Walls R605 Patio Covers Appendix BF Penetrations R302.4, R302.5 Permits 1.8.4, R105, R105.5.1 Permit fees Appendix AB Photovoltaic Panel Systems R907 Ground-mounted definition R202
Photovoltaic Support Structure, Elevated R202, R324.8, R324.8.1, R324.8.2 Piers R606.7
Masonry R404.1.9 Planning Building Chapter 3 Plans R106
Plaster
Exterior R703.7
Interior R702.2
Platform Lifts R323.2, R323.3 Plumbing Fixture clearances R327
Fixtures R326, R327 Inspection 109.1.2 Requirements and definitions R202 System, definition R202 Plywood Application R703.5 Materials, walls R604
Precast Concrete
Footings R403.4 Foundation material R402.3.1
Foundation walls R404.5
Protection Against decay and termites R304, R305 Against radon Appendix BE Public Way R318.1, R319.1 Purlins R802.4.5
Hot Tubs (see Swimming Pools) R324.3.1, R328 Hurricane (see Storm Shelter)
Impact Protective System Energy storage system R330.8 Flood R306.1.4.2, R306.3.3 Human impact R324.3 Storm shelter R307.2.1
CRC § 2-4 Medium relevance — show source text
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code. General definitions are located in Section 202 and occupancy classification definitions are located in Section 203.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
3D PRINTER. A machine used in the additive manufacturing process for fabricating objects through the deposition of a material using a print head, nozzle or other printer technology.
[M] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel or similar obstruction [see also “Ready access (to)”].
[BE] ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to a public way.
[BE] ACCESSIBLE ROUTE. A continuous, unobstructed path that complies with Chapter 11 of the California Building Code .
ACTIVE RF EMITTING DEVICE. Any type of circuit component that requires an AC or DC power source with the ability to electrically control electron flow and/or amplification of RF signal, including but not limited to signal boosters, repeaters, bidirectional amplifiers and fiber-distributed antenna systems.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING. A process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer, sometimes referred to as 3D printing. This code recognizes two types of additive manufacturing:
Industrial additive manufacturing. 3D printing operations that typically utilize combustible powders or metals, an inert gas supply, a combustible dust collection system, or that create a hazardous (classified) location area or zone outside the equipment.
CRC § 106.3 Medium relevance — show source text
11B- 106.3 Undefined terms. The meaning of terms not specifically listed in Section 11B- 106.5, and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.
11B- 106.4 Interchangeability . See Chapter 2, Section 201.2.
11B- 106.5 Defined terms . The following terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.
ACCESS AISLE
ACCESSIBILITY
ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
ADAPTABLE
ADDITION
ADJUSTED CONSTRUCTION COST
ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY
ADULT CHANGING FACILITY
AISLE
ALTERATION
AMUSEMENT ATTRACTION
AMUSEMENT RIDE
AMUSEMENT RIDE SEAT
ANSI
APPROVED
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY
AREA OF REFUGE
AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY
ASSEMBLY AREA
ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS)
AUTOMATIC DOOR
AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINE (ATM)
BATHROOM
BLENDED TRANSITION
BOARDING PIER
BOAT LAUNCH RAMP
BOAT SLIP
BOTTLE FILLING STATION
BUILDING
BUILDING OFFICIAL
CATCH POOL
CCR
CHARACTERS
CHILDREN’S USE
CIRCULATION PATH
CLEAR
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
CLEAR FLOOR SPACE
CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEPHONE
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
COMMERCIAL PLACE OF PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
COMMON USE
COMPLY WITH
CROSS SLOPE
CURB CUT
CURB RAMP
DESIGNATED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
DESIGNATED-ORIENTED ELEVATOR
DETECTABLE WARNING
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
DISABILITY
DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS
DORMITORY
DRIVE AISLE
DRIVE-UP ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION
DRIVEWAY
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGER
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SPACE (EV SPACE)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EVCS)
CRC § 1.10.1 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECTS 1, 2 Administrative Requirements and Definitions 3 Provisions for all Compliance Methods 4 Repairs 5 Prescriptive Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 6–11 Work Area Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 13 Performance Compliance Method for Existing Buildings 14 Relocated Buildings 15 Construction Safeguards 16 Referenced Standards Appendix A Guidelines for Seismic Retrofit of Existing Buildings Appendix B Supplementary Accessibility Requirements for Existing Buildings Appendix C Guidelines for Wind Retrofit of Existing Buildings Appendix D Board of Appeals Appendix E Temporary Emergency Uses Resource A Guidelines on Fire Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE CORRELATED TOPICS
The CEBC requirements for construction safeguards are directly correlated to the requirements of the CBC. The following table shows chapters of the CBC that are correlated with the CEBC:
CEBC/CBC CORRELATED TOPICS Col2 Col3 CEBC CHAPTER/SECTION CBC CHAPTER/SECTION SUBJECT Chapter 15 Chapter 33 Construction safeguards 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.
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Chapter 3 Provisions for All Compliance Methods.
Chapter 3 guides the use of the three compliance methods of the CEBC and provides requirements that apply globally. The globally applicable requirement include general requirements related to buildings materials and other applicable codes, storm shelters, structural loads, in-situ load tests, accessibility, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detection and exterior wall coverings.
Chapter 3A Provisions for All Compliance Methods.
Chapter 3A controls the compliance options for alteration, repair, addition, evaluation and change of occupancy of existing 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 4 Repairs.
Chapter 4, a chapter independent of the three compliance methods, governs the repair of existing buildings. The provisions define conditions under which repairs may be made using materials and methods like those of the original construction or the extent to which repairs must comply with requirements for new buildings.
Chapter 4A Repairs.
Chapter 4A governs the repair of existing buildings regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of State- wide Hospital Planning and Development, which include hospitals and correctional treatment centers (applications listed in Sections 1.10.1 (OSHPD 1).
CRC § 1-2 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECT 1-2 Administration and Definitions 3-4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designation and Requirements 5 Building Construction Regulations 6 Fire Protection Requirements 7 Referenced Standards Appendices A-I Adoptable and Informational Appendices 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 Wildland-Urban Interface Areas.
Chapter 3 provides for the fundamental aspect of applying the code—the legal declaration and establishment of wildland-urban interface areas within the adopting jurisdiction, mapping of the area, periodic review and updates.
Chapter 4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Requirements.
The requirements of Chapter 4 apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:
Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.
Key boxes to provide ready access to properties secured by gated roadways or other impediments to rapid fire service access.
Fire protection water supplies, including adequate water sources, pumper apparatus drafting sites, fire hydrant systems and system reliability.
Fire department access to equipment such as fire suppression equipment and fire hydrants.
Chapter 5 Special Building Construction Regulations.
The regulations in Chapter 5 establish minimum standards for the location, design and construction of buildings and structures based on construction within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Area.
The construction provisions of Chapter 5 are intended to supplement the requirements of the California Building Code and Califor- nia Residential Code and address mitigation of the unique hazards posed to buildings by wildfire and to reduce the hazards of building fires spreading to wildland fuels. This is accomplished by requiring ignition-resistant construction materials.
Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements.
Chapter 6 contains additional requirements for development and construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and areas designated by the State Fire Marshal as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). While many of these provisions are found in Title 14 and Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, they are replicated here for the code user. The local jurisdiction has the authority to apply the same regulations to LRA when the regulations are adopted by local ordinance.
The requirements in this chapter reference the process for adoption of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA; criteria for evaluating existing subdivisions that are at significant fire risk and are without an adequate secondary egress; and criteria for fire safety provisions required in the Safety Element of a city or county General Plan.
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Frequently asked questions
What does “ready access” mean in the CRC?
R202 uses the phrase but does not define “ready access” explicitly. The Mechanical and Plumbing Codes define related terms such as Accessible and Accessible, Readily; consult those definitions when the phrase “readily accessible” appears as a requirement.
If a required valve is behind a locked panel, does § R202 consider it accessible?
R202 requires only that the device be reachable by ready access or by removal/movement of a panel/door. If the panel is locked but removable by authorized persons (service access), R202’s definition still describes that as access — but other regulations (fire, safety, or local AHJ requirements) may restrict locked panels.
Does R202 set minimum opening sizes for access panels?
No. § R202 defines what “access” means but does not specify size or clearance dimensions. Look to appliance manufacturer instructions or applicable installation chapters (mechanical, plumbing) for numeric requirements.
How is “access” in R202 different from accessibility for persons with disabilities?
R202’s “access” concerns service reach to equipment and appliances. Accessibility for persons with disabilities (accessible routes, accessible elements) is governed by the California Building Code (Chapter 11/11B) and CRC provisions such as § R322. Do not conflate the two.
Where should I look for required working space around mechanical equipment?
R202 won’t have those numeric working-space rules. Check the specific equipment installation sections in the Mechanical or Plumbing Codes, the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions, or the relevant CRC chapter that references those requirements.
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