What is a 'Guard' (or 'Guardrail')?

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

• CRC § 1030.17.2. High relevance — show source text

  Exceptions: Guards are not required for the following locations:

  1. On the loading side of loading docks or piers.
  2. On the audience side of stages and raised platforms, including stairs leading up to the stage and raised platforms.
  3. On raised stage and platform floor areas, such as runways, ramps and side stages used for entertainment or presentations.
  4. At vertical openings in the performance area of stages and platforms.
  5. At elevated walking surfaces appurtenant to stages and platforms for access to and utilization of special lighting or equipment.
  6. Along vehicle service pits not accessible to the public.
  7. In assembly seating areas at cross aisles in accordance with Section 1030.17.2.
  8. On the loading side of station platforms on fixed guideway transit or passenger rail systems.

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-37

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  MEANS OF EGRESS

  9. Portions of an occupiable roof located less than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to adjacent unoccupiable roof areas where approved guards are present at the perimeter of the roof.
  10. At portions of an occupiable roof where an approved barrier is provided. 11. Elevated facility observation station access hatches at detention facilities.

  1015.2.1 Glazing. Where glass is used to provide a guard or as a portion of the guard system, the guard shall comply with Section 2407. Where the glazing provided does not meet the strength and attachment requirements of Section 1607.9, complying guards shall be located along glazed sides of open-sided walking surfaces.

  1015.3 Height. Required guards shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) high, measured vertically as follows:

  1. From the adjacent walking surfaces.
  2. On stairways and stepped aisles, from the line connecting the nosings.
  3. On ramps and ramped aisles, from the ramp surface at the guard.

  Exceptions:

  1 . For occupancies in Group R-3, and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2, guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings. 2 . 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. 3 . The guard height in assembly seating areas shall comply with Section 1030.17 as applicable. 4 . Along alternating tread devices and ships 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. 5 . 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.

• CRC § 0.01 Medium relevance — show source text

  2. Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than 6 [1] / 4 inches (160 mm) shall have a graspable finger recess area on both sides of the profile. The finger recess shall begin within [3] / 4 inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest portion of the profile and have a depth of not less than [5] / 16 inch (8 mm) within [7] / 8 inch (22 mm) below the widest portion of the profile. This required depth shall continue for not less than [3] / 8 inch (10 mm) to a level that is not less than 1 [3] / 4 inches (45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile. The width of the handrail above the recess shall be not less than 1 [1] / 4 inches (32 mm) and not more than 2 [3] / 4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a radius of not less than 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).

  R320.7 Exterior plastic composite handrails. Plastic composite exterior handrails shall also comply with the requirements of Section R507.2.2.

  SECTION R321—GUARDS AND WINDOW FALL PROTECTION

  R321.1 Guards. Guards shall be provided in accordance with Sections R321.1.1 through R321.1.4.

  R321.1.1 Where required. Guards shall be provided for those portions of open-sided walking surfaces, including floors, stairs, ramps and landings that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered as a guard.

  R321.1.2 Height. Required guards at open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, porches, balconies or landings, shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height as measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface or the line connecting the nosings.

  Exceptions:

  1. Guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a height of not less than 34 inches (864 mm) measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.

  2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 3-67

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  BUILDING PLANNING

  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) as measured vertically from a line connecting the nosings.

  R321.1.3 Opening limitations. Required guards shall not have openings from the walking surface to the required guard height that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter.

  Exceptions:

  1. The triangular openings at the open side of stair, formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a guard, shall not allow passage of a sphere 6 inches (153 mm) in diameter.
  2. Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 [3] / 8 inches (111 mm) in diameter.

  R321.1.4 Exterior plastic composite guards. Plastic composite exterior guards shall comply with the requirements of Section R507.2.2.

• CRC § 2-14 Medium relevance — show source text

  [MP] GRAYWATER. Waste discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, showers, clothes washers and laundry trays.

  [MP] GRIDDED WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM. A water distribution system where every water distribution pipe is interconnected so as to provide two or more paths to each fixture supply pipe.

  [RB] GROSS AREA OF EXTERIOR WALLS. The normal projection of all exterior walls, including the area of all windows and doors installed therein.

  [MP] GROUND-SOURCE HEAT PUMP LOOP SYSTEM. Piping buried in horizontal or vertical excavations or placed in a body of water for the purpose of transporting heat transfer liquid to and from a heat pump. Included in this definition are closed loop systems in which the liquid is recirculated and open loop systems in which the liquid is drawn from a well or other source.

  [RB] GUARD OR GUARDRAIL . A building component or a system of building components located near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to the lower level.

  [RB] GUESTROOM. Any room or rooms used or intended to be used by one or more guests for living or sleeping purposes.

  [RB] GYPSUM BOARD. A type of gypsum panel product consisting of a noncombustible core primarily of gypsum with paper surfacing.

  [RB] GYPSUM PANEL PRODUCT. The general name for a family of sheet products consisting essentially of gypsum complying with the standards specified in Section R702.3 and Chapter 44 of this code.

  [RB] GYPSUM SHEATHING. Gypsum panel products specifically manufactured with enhanced water resistance for use as a substrate for exterior surface materials.

  [RB] GYPSUM WALLBOARD. A gypsum board used primarily as interior surfacing for building structures.

  [RB] HABITABLE SPACE. A space in a building for living, sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, closets, halls, storage or utility spaces and similar areas are not considered habitable spaces.

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  DEFINITIONS

  [RB] HANDRAIL. A horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasping by the hand for guidance or support.

  [MP] HANGERS. See “Supports.”

  [MP] HAZARDOUS LOCATION. Any location considered to be a fire hazard for flammable vapors, dust, combustible fibers or other highly combustible substances.

  [MP] HEAT PUMP. A refrigeration system or factory-made appliance that utilizes refrigerant to transfer heat into a space or substance.

  [RB] HEIGHT, BUILDING. The vertical distance from grade plane to the average height of the highest roof surface.

  [RB] HEIGHT, STORY. The vertical distance from top to top of two successive tiers of beams or finished floor surfaces; and, for the topmost story, from the top of the floor finish to the top of the ceiling joists or, where there is not a ceiling, to the top of the roof rafters.

  [MP] HIGH-TEMPERATURE (H.T.) CHIMNEY. A high-temperature chimney complying with the requirements of UL 103. A Type H.T. chimney is identifiable by the markings “Type H.T.” on each chimney pipe section.

• CRC § 5-42 Medium relevance — show source text

  5-42 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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  FLOORS

  FIGURE R507.9.2(1)—DECK ATTACHMENT FOR LATERAL LOADS

  WATER-PROTECTIVE BARRIER

  LAPPED OVER FLASHING

  "Z" FLASHING (SHOWN) OR "L" FLASHING (OPTIONAL)

  HOLD-DOWN OR SIMILAR DEVICE

  ATTACHED TO ADJACENT JOISTS

  PER MANUFACTURER

  LAG SCREWS OR BOLTS STAGGARED

  APPROVED JOIST HANGER

  For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

  FIGURE R507.9.2(2)—DECK ATTACHMENT FOR LATERAL LOADS

  WATER-RESISTING BARRIER

  LAPPED OVER FLASHING

  "L" FLASHING (SHOWN) OR "Z" FLASHING (OPTIONAL)

  APPROVED JOIST HANGERS

  LAG SCREWS OR BOLTS STAGGERED

  HOLD-DOWN DEVICE MIN 750 LB. CAPACITY AT 4 LOCATIONS, EVENLY DISTRIBUTED ALONG DECK AND ONE WITHIN 24" OF EACH

  END OF THE LEDGER. HOLD-DOWN DEVICES

  SHALL FULLY ENGAGE DECK JOIST PER

  HOLD-DOWN MANUFACTURER. ATTACHED TO

  TOP PLATE STUDS OR HEADER WITH A FULLY

  THREADED 3/8" DIAMETER LAG SCREW

  PREDRILLED W/ MIN. 3" PENETRATION

  For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

  2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 5-43

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  FLOORS

  R507.10 Exterior guards. Guards shall be constructed to meet the requirements of Sections R301.5 and R321, and this section.

  R507.10.1 Support of guards. Where guards are supported on deck framing, guard loads shall be transferred to the deck framing with a continuous load path to the deck joists.

  R507.10.1.1 Guards supported by side of deck framing. Where guards are connected to the interior or exterior side of a deck joist or beam, the joist or beam shall be connected to the adjacent joists to prevent rotation of the joist or beam. Connections relying only on fasteners in end grain withdrawal are not permitted.

  R507.10.1.2 Guards supported on top of deck framing. Where guards are mounted on top of the decking, the guards shall be connected to the deck framing or blocking and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions to transfer the guard loads to the adjacent joists.

  R507.10.2 Wood posts at deck guards. Where 4-inch by 4-inch (102 mm by 102 mm) wood posts support guard loads applied to the top of the guard, such posts shall not be notched at the connection to the supporting structure.

  R507.10.3 Plastic composite guards. Plastic composite guards shall comply with the provisions of Section R507.2.2.

  R507.10.4 Other guards. Other guards shall be in accordance with either manufacturer’s instructions or accepted engineering principles.

  5-44 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

• CRC § 1030.17.1 Medium relevance — show source text

  1030.17.1 Perimeter guards. Perimeter guards shall be provided where the footboards or walking surface of seating facilities are more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below. Where the seatboards are adjacent to the perimeter, guard height shall be 42 inches (1067 mm) high minimum, measured from the seatboard. Where the seats are self-rising, guard height shall be 42 inches (1067 mm) high minimum, measured from the floor surface. Where there is an aisle between the seating and the perimeter, the guard height shall be measured in accordance with Section 1015.3.

  Exceptions:

  1. Guards that impact sightlines shall be permitted to comply with Section 1030.17.3.
  2. Bleachers, grandstands and folding and telescopic seating shall not be required to have perimeter guards where the seating is located adjacent to a wall and the space between the wall and the seating is less than 4 inches (102 mm).

  1030.17.2 Cross aisles. Cross aisles located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below shall have guards in accordance with Section 1015.

  Where an elevation change of 30 inches (762 mm) or less occurs between a cross aisle and the adjacent floor or grade below, guards not less than 26 inches (660 mm) above the aisle floor shall be provided.

  Exception: Where the backs of seats on the front of the cross aisle project 24 inches (610 mm) or more above the adjacent floor of the aisle, a guard need not be provided.

  1030.17.3 Sightline-constrained guard heights. Unless subject to the requirements of Section 1030.17.4, a fascia or railing system in accordance with the guard requirements of Section 1015 and having a minimum height of 26 inches (660 mm) shall be provided where the floor or footboard elevation is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below and the fascia or railing would otherwise interfere with the sightlines of immediately adjacent seating.

  1030.17.4 Guards at the end of aisles. A fascia or railing system complying with the guard requirements of Section 1015 shall be provided for the full width of the aisle where the foot of the aisle is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor or grade below. The fascia or railing shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) high and shall provide not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) measured diagonally between the top of the rail and the nosing of the nearest tread.

  SECTION 1031—EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE

  1031.1 General. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall comply with the requirements of this section.

  1031.2 Where required. In addition to the means of egress required by this chapter, emergency escape and rescue openings shall be provided in Group R occupancies .

  Basements and sleeping rooms below the fourth story above grade plane shall have not fewer than one emergency escape and rescue opening in accordance with this section. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room, but shall not be required in adjoining areas of the basement. Such open

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 10-59

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  MEANS OF EGRESS

• CRC § 1030.17.2. Medium relevance — show source text

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

  MEANS OF EGRESS

  7. In assembly seating areas at cross aisles in accordance with Section 1030.17.2.
  8. On the loading side of station platforms on fixed guideway transit or passenger rail systems.
  9. Portions of an occupiable roof located less than 30 inches (762 mm) measured vertically to adjacent unoccupiable roof areas where approved guards are present at the perimeter of the roof.
  10. At portions of an occupiable roof where an approved barrier is provided. 11. Elevated facility observation station access hatches at detention facilities.

  [BE] 1015.2.1 Glazing. Where glass is used to provide a guard or as a portion of the guard system, the guard shall comply with Section 2407 of the California Building Code . Where the glazing provided does not meet the strength and attachment requirements of Section 1607.9 of the California Building Code, complying guards shall be located along glazed sides of open-sided walking surfaces.

  [BE] 1015.3 Height. Required guards shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) high, measured vertically as follows:

  1. From the adjacent walking surfaces.
  2. On stairways and stepped aisles, from the line connecting the nosings.
  3. On ramps and ramped aisles, from the ramp surface at the guard.

  Exceptions:

  1. For occupancies in Group R-3 not more than three stories above grade in height and within individual dwelling units in occupancies in Group R-2 not more than three stories above grade in height with separate means of egress, required guards shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in height measured vertically above the adjacent walking surfaces.
  2. 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.

• CRC § 8.1 Medium relevance — show source text

  Garbage Disposal (see Food-Waste Disposers) Garages R317, R330.8.1 Electric vehicle charging infrastructure R317.6 Protection of Energy Storage Systems R330.8

  Generators R331

  Girders R502.5 Glazing Aggregate area R325.1 Greenhouses R324.6.6 Protection of openings R301.2.1.2 Safety glazing at hazardous locations R324

  Site-built R324.5 Skylights and sloped glazing R324.6 Grade

  Of lumber R502.1.1, R602.1.1, R802.1.1 Grade Plane R101.2, R301.2.2.7, R316.3 Ground Floors (on ground) R504, R506 Guards or Guardrail R321, R324.4.4 Exterior R507.10 Guestroom (see Lodging House) Gypsum Board and Gypsum Panel Products R702.3

  Hallways R318.6 Hand Shower (see Shower) Handrails R318.7.8, R318.8.3, R320, R324.4.4 Alternating tread devices R318.7.12.2 Ship’s ladders R318.7.13.2 Hazardous Location R324

  Headers

  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)

  INDEX-2 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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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

• California Residential Code Medium relevance — show source text

  [MP] FULLWAY VALVE. A valve that in the full open position has an opening cross-sectional area that is not less than 85 percent of the cross-sectional area of the connecting pipe.

  [MP] FURNACE. A vented heating appliance designed or arranged to discharge heated air into a conditioned space or through a duct or ducts.

  [RB] GLASS MAT GYPSUM PANEL. A gypsum panel consisting of a noncombustible core primarily of gypsum, surfaced with glass mat partially or completely embedded in the core.

  [RB] GLAZING AREA. The interior surface area of all glazed fenestration, including the area of sash, curbing or other framing elements, that enclose conditioned space. Includes the area of glazed fenestration assemblies in walls bounding conditioned basements.

  [RB] GRADE. The finished ground level adjoining the building at all exterior walls.

  [MP] GRADE, PIPING. See “Slope.”

  [RB] GRADE FLOOR EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING. An emergency escape and rescue opening located such that the bottom of the clear opening is not more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above or below the finished ground level adjacent to the opening. (See also “Emergency escape and rescue opening.”)

  [RB] GRADE PLANE. A reference plane representing the average of the finished ground level adjoining the building at all exterior walls. Where the finished ground level slopes away from the exterior walls, the reference plane shall be established by the lowest points within the area between the building and the lot line or, where the lot line is more than 6 feet (1829 mm) from the building between the structure and a point 6 feet (1829 mm) from the building.

  [MP] GRAYWATER. Waste discharged from lavatories, bathtubs, showers, clothes washers and laundry trays.

  [MP] GRIDDED WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM. A water distribution system where every water distribution pipe is interconnected so as to provide two or more paths to each fixture supply pipe.

  [RB] GROSS AREA OF EXTERIOR WALLS. The normal projection of all exterior walls, including the area of all windows and doors installed therein.

  [MP] GROUND-SOURCE HEAT PUMP LOOP SYSTEM. Piping buried in horizontal or vertical excavations or placed in a body of water for the purpose of transporting heat transfer liquid to and from a heat pump. Included in this definition are closed loop systems in which the liquid is recirculated and open loop systems in which the liquid is drawn from a well or other source.

  [RB] GUARD OR GUARDRAIL . A building component or a system of building components located near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to the lower level.

  [RB] GUESTROOM. Any room or rooms used or intended to be used by one or more guests for living or sleeping purposes.

  [RB] GYPSUM BOARD. A type of gypsum panel product consisting of a noncombustible core primarily of gypsum with paper surfacing.

  [RB] GYPSUM PANEL PRODUCT. The general name for a family of sheet products consisting essentially of gypsum complying with the standards specified in Section R702.3 and Chapter 44 of this code.

  [RB] GYPSUM SHEATHING. Gypsum panel products specifically manufactured with enhanced water resistance for use as a substrate for exterior surface materials.

• CRC § 1.90 Medium relevance — show source text

  RC.L|1.90 ×TDA + 7.08|1.90 ×TDA + 7.08| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Vertical Closed
  Transparent (VCT)|38 (M)|≥32|VCT.SC.M|0.10 ×V + 0.86|0.10 ×V + 0.86| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Vertical Closed
  Transparent (VCT)|0 (L)|<32|VCT.SC.L|0.29 ×V + 2.95|0.29 ×V + 2.95| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Vertical Closed
  Solid (VCS)|38 (M)|≥32|VCS.SC.M|0.05 ×V + 1.36|0.05 ×V + 1.36| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Vertical Closed
  Solid (VCS)|0 (L)|<32|VCS.SC.L|0.22 ×V + 1.38|0.22 ×V + 1.38| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Horizontal Closed
  Transparent (HCT)|38 (M)|≥32|HCT.SC.M|0.06 ×V + 0.37|0.06 ×V + 0.37| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Horizontal Closed
  Transparent (HCT)|0 (L)|<32|HCT.SC.L|0.08 ×V + 1.23|0.08 ×V + 1.23| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Horizontal Closed
  Solid (HCS)|38 (M)|≥32|HCS.SC.M|0.05 ×V + 0.91|0.05 ×V + 0.91| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Horizontal Closed
  Solid (HCS)|0 (L)|<32|HCS.SC.L|0.06 ×V + 1.12|0.06 ×V + 1.12| |Self-contained
  commercial
  refrigerators and
  commercial
  freezers with and
  with outdoors|
  Self-contained
  (SC)|Service Over
  Counter (SOC)|38 (M)|≥32|SOC.SC.M|0.52 ×TDA + 1.00|0.52 ×TDA + 1.

• CRC § 2022-1.0 Medium relevance — show source text

  GROUND LEVEL PLAY COMPONENT. [DSA-AC] A play component that is approached and exited at the ground level.

  [BS] GROUND SNOW LOAD, p g . Design ground snow loads.

  [BS] GROUND SNOW LOAD, p g(asd) . Allowable stress design ground snow loads

  [BS] GROUND SNOW LOAD GEODATABASE. The ASCE database (version 2022-1.0) of geocoded values of risk-targeted design ground snow load values.

  [BG] GROUP HOME. Group Home means a facility which provides 24-hour care and supervision to children, provides services specified in this chapter to a specific client group, and maintains a structured environment, with such services provided at least in part by staff employed by the licensee. The care and supervision provided by a group home shall be nonmedical except as permitted by Welfare and Institutions Code Section 17736(b). Since small family and foster family homes, by definition, care for six or fewer children only, any facility providing 24-hour care for seven or more children must be licensed as a group home.

  [BE] GUARD [DSA-AC, HCD 1, HCD 2 & HCD 1-AC] OR GUARDRAIL . A building component or a system of building components located at or near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to a lower level.

  [BG] GUESTROOM. A room used or intended to be used by one or more guests for living or sleeping purposes.

  [BS] GYPSUM BOARD. A type of gypsum panel product consisting of a noncombustible core primarily of gypsum with paper surfacing.

  [BS] GYPSUM PANEL PRODUCT. The general name for a family of sheet products consisting essentially of gypsum complying with the standards specified in Table 2506.2, Table 2507.2 and Chapter 35.

  [BS] GYPSUM PLASTER. A mixture of calcined gypsum or calcined gypsum and lime and aggregate and other approved materials as specified in this code.

  [BS] GYPSUM SHEATHING. Gypsum panel products specifically manufactured with enhanced water resistance for use as a substrate for exterior surface materials.

  [BS] GYPSUM VENEER PLASTER. Gypsum plaster applied to an approved base in one or more coats normally not exceeding [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) in total thickness.

  [BS] GYPSUM WALLBOARD. A gypsum board used primarily as an interior surfacing for building structures.

  [BG] HABITABLE SPACE. A space in a building for living, sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, closets, halls, storage or utility spaces and similar areas are not considered habitable spaces.

  HALL CALL CONSOLE. [DSA-AC] An elevator call user interface exclusive to a destination-oriented elevator system that requires the user to select a destination floor prior to entering the elevator car.

  [F] HALOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM. A fire-extinguishing system using one or more atoms of an element from the halogen chemical series: fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine.

  [F] HANDLING. The deliberate transport by any means to a point of storage or use .

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 2-35

• 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.

  2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE xiii

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  xiv 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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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 § 6.1 Medium relevance — show source text

  d
  (pcf)|MINIMUM COMPRES-
  SIVE STRENGTH PER
  SECTION BK106.6.1
  (psi)|WALL-TYPE
  REINFORCEMENT
  PER TABLE
  BK105.3|MINIMUM
  THICKNESSc, e, f AT
  TOP OF WALL
  (inches)|MINIMUM
  THICKNESSc, e, f AT
  BOTTOM OF WALL
  (inches)**| |1,200|100|85|E|9|12| |475|≥ 50 pcf: less than
  40 inches from top of wall|40b|E or F|8|12| |475|≥ 70 pcf: from 40 inches to 80
  inches from top of wall|55b|55b|55b|55b| |475|≥ 90 pcf: more than 80 inches
  from top of wall|85|85|85|85| |Nonload bearing|50 to 100|≥ 60 psi
  < 60 psib|E or F|9|9| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.45 kg, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
  a.
  Density is to be measured at equilibrium moisture content. Average wall density shall be within ±5 pcf of the tabulated value.
  b.
  Requires an approved engineered design per Section BK106.6.
  c.
  Cob thickness only. The interior and exterior cob faces shall be permitted to be unfinished or receive any plaster finish allowed by this appendix.
  d.
  Cob walls with more than one density shall be built with heavier densities below lighter densities.
  e.
  Minimum cob wall thickness shall be whichever is greater in Tables BK105.3, BK106.11(1) and BK108.1.
  f.
  Wall thicknesses less than 10 inches require an engineered design.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.45 kg, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
  a.
  Density is to be measured at equilibrium moisture content. Average wall density shall be within ±5 pcf of the tabulated value.
  b.
  Requires an approved engineered design per Section BK106.6.
  c.
  Cob thickness only. The interior and exterior cob faces shall be permitted to be unfinished or receive any plaster finish allowed by this appendix.
  d.
  Cob walls with more than one density shall be built with heavier densities below lighter densities.
  e.
  Minimum cob wall thickness shall be whichever is greater in Tables BK105.3, BK106.11(1) and BK108.1.
  f.
  Wall thicknesses less than 10 inches require an engineered design.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.45 kg, 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3.
  a.
  Density is to be measured at equilibrium moisture content.

• CRC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

  Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any
  direction at any point along the top. Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm2, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
  a. Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 2,000-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 41/2 inches by 41/2 inches,
  whichever produces the greater stresses.
  b. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent
  trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This
  live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
  c. Individual stair treads shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 2 inches by 2 inches, which-
  ever produces the greater stresses.
  d. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top. For a guard not required to serve as a handrail, the load need not be applied to the top element
  of the guard in a direction parallel to such element.
  e. See Section R507.1 for decks attached to exterior walls.
  f. Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area
  equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  g. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses
  with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
  The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
  1.
  The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i.

• California Residential Code Medium relevance — show source text

  Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 2,000-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 41/2 inches by 41/2 inches,
  whichever produces the greater stresses.
  b. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent
  trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This
  live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
  c. Individual stair treads shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 2 inches by 2 inches, which-
  ever produces the greater stresses.
  d. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top. For a guard not required to serve as a handrail, the load need not be applied to the top element
  of the guard in a direction parallel to such element.
  e. See Section R507.1 for decks attached to exterior walls.
  f. Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area
  equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  g. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses
  with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
  The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
  1.
  The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i. Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direc-
  tion and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface. Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any
  direction at any point along the top.

• CRC § 16A-15 Medium relevance — show source text

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 16A-15

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  STRUCTURAL DESIGN

  3. For roofs not intended for occupancy, only the single concentrated load required by Section 1607 A .9.1 shall be applied.

  1607 A .9.1.2 Guard component loads. Balusters, panel fillers and guard infill components, including all rails except the handrail and the top rail, shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 50 pounds (0.22 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.1.2 of ASCE 7.

  1607 A .9.2 Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches. Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches shall be designed to resist a single concentrated load of 250 pounds (1.11 kN) applied in any direction at any point on the grab bar, shower seat, or seat of the accessible bench so as to produce the maximum load effects. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section 1127A.4 and Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-609.8, 11B-610.4 and 11B-903.6 for grab bars, shower seats and dressing room bench seats, as applicable.

  1607 A .10 Fixed ladders. Fixed ladders with rungs shall be designed to resist a single concentrated load of 300 pounds (1.33 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.4 of ASCE 7. Where rails of fixed ladders extend above a floor or platform at the top of the ladder, each side rail extension shall be designed to resist a single concentrated load of 100 pounds (0.445 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.4 of ASCE 7. Ship’s ladders shall be designed to resist the stair loads given in Table 1607 A .1.

  1607 A .11 Vehicle barriers. Vehicle barriers for passenger vehicles shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 6,000 pounds (26.70 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.3 of ASCE 7. Garages accommodating trucks and buses shall be designed in accordance with an approved method that contains provisions for traffic railings.

  1607 A .12 Impact loads. The live loads specified in Sections 1607 A .3 through 1607 A .11 shall be assumed to include adequate allowance for ordinary impact conditions. Provisions shall be made in the structural design for uses and loads that involve unusual vibration and impact forces.

  1607 A .12.1 Elevators. Members, elements and components subject to dynamic loads from elevators shall be designed for impact loads and deflection limits prescribed by ASME A17.1/CSA B44.

  1607 A .12.2 Machinery. For the purpose of design, the weight of machinery and moving loads shall be increased as follows to allow for impact:

  1. Light machinery, shaft- or motor-driven, 20 percent.
  2. Reciprocating machinery or power-driven units, 50 percent.

  Percentages shall be increased where specified by the manufacturer.

• CRC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

  Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm2, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
  a. Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 2,000-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 41/2 inches by 41/2 inches,
  whichever produces the greater stresses.
  b. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent
  trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This
  live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
  c. Individual stair treads shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 2 inches by 2 inches, which-
  ever produces the greater stresses.
  d. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top. For a guard not required to serve as a handrail, the load need not be applied to the top element
  of the guard in a direction parallel to such element.
  e. See Section R507.1 for decks attached to exterior walls.
  f. Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area
  equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  g. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses
  with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
  The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
  1.
  The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i. Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direc-
  tion and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface.

• CRC § 3-22 Medium relevance — show source text

  Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area
  equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  g. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses
  with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
  The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
  1.
  The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i. Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direc-
  tion and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface. Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any
  direction at any point along the top. Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.|

  3-22 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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

  BUILDING PLANNING

  R301.6 Roof load. The roof shall be designed for the live load indicated in Table R301.6 or the ground snow load indicated in Table R301.2, whichever is greater.

  |TABLE R301.

• CRC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

  This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  g. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where there are two or more adjacent trusses
  with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
  The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
  1.
  The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i. Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direc-
  tion and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface. Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any
  direction at any point along the top. Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm2, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
  a. Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 2,000-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 41/2 inches by 41/2 inches,
  whichever produces the greater stresses.
  b. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent
  trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This
  live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
  c. Individual stair treads shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 2 inches by 2 inches, which-
  ever produces the greater stresses.
  d. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top. For a guard not required to serve as a handrail, the load need not be applied to the top element
  of the guard in a direction parallel to such element.
  e. See Section R507.1 for decks attached to exterior walls.
  f.

• CRC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

  or where there are two or more adjacent trusses
  with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
  The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or truss bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
  1.
  The attic area is accessed from an opening not less than 20 inches in width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in the attic is not less than 30 inches.
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i. Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direc-
  tion and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface. Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any
  direction at any point along the top. Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm2, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
  a. Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 2,000-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 41/2 inches by 41/2 inches,
  whichever produces the greater stresses.
  b. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the clear height between joists and rafters is not more than 42 inches, or where there are not two or more adjacent
  trusses with web configurations capable of accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This
  live load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
  c. Individual stair treads shall be capable of supporting the uniformly distributed live load or a 300-pound concentrated load applied on an area of 2 inches by 2 inches, which-
  ever produces the greater stresses.
  d. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the top. For a guard not required to serve as a handrail, the load need not be applied to the top element
  of the guard in a direction parallel to such element.
  e. See Section R507.1 for decks attached to exterior walls.
  f. Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal load of 50 pounds on an area
  equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
  g.

• CRC § 8.4.1 Medium relevance — show source text

  1607 A .8.4.1 Impact and fatigue. Impact loads and fatigue loading shall be considered in the design of the supporting structure. For the purposes of design, the vehicle and wheel loads shall be increased by 30 percent to account for impact.

  1607 A .8.5 Posting. The maximum weight of vehicles allowed into or on a garage or other structure shall be posted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent in accordance with Section 106.1.

  1607 A .9 Loads on handrails, guards, grab bars and seats. Handrails and guards shall be designed and constructed for the structural loading conditions set forth in Section 1607 A .9.1. Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches shall be designed and constructed for the structural loading conditions set forth in Section 1607 A .9.2.

  1607 A .9.1 Concentrated load. Handrails and guards shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 200 pounds (0.89 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.1 of ASCE 7. Glass handrail assemblies and guards shall comply with Section 2407.

  1607 A .9.1.1 Uniform load. Handrails and guards shall be designed to resist a linear load of 50 pounds per linear foot (plf) (0.73 kN/m) in accordance with Section 4.5.1.1 of ASCE 7. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with the concentrated load specified in Section 1607 A .9.1.

  Exceptions:

  1. For one- and two-family dwellings, only the single concentrated load required by Section 1607 A .9.1 shall be applied.
  2. In Group I-3, F, H and S occupancies, for areas that are not accessible to the general public and that have an occupant load less than 50, the minimum load shall be 20 pounds per foot (0.29 kN/m).

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 16A-15

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

  �

  STRUCTURAL DESIGN

  3. For roofs not intended for occupancy, only the single concentrated load required by Section 1607 A .9.1 shall be applied.

  1607 A .9.1.2 Guard component loads. Balusters, panel fillers and guard infill components, including all rails except the handrail and the top rail, shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 50 pounds (0.22 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.1.2 of ASCE 7.

  1607 A .9.2 Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches. Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches shall be designed to resist a single concentrated load of 250 pounds (1.11 kN) applied in any direction at any point on the grab bar, shower seat, or seat of the accessible bench so as to produce the maximum load effects. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section 1127A.4 and Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-609.8, 11B-610.4 and 11B-903.6 for grab bars, shower seats and dressing room bench seats, as applicable.

• CRC § 1607.8.4.1 Medium relevance — show source text

  1607.8.4.1 Impact and fatigue. Impact loads and fatigue loading shall be considered in the design of the supporting structure. For the purposes of design, the vehicle and wheel loads shall be increased by 30 percent to account for impact.

  1607.8.5 Posting. The maximum weight of vehicles allowed into or on a garage or other structure shall be posted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent in accordance with Section 106.1.

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 16-13

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  **

  STRUCTURAL DESIGN

  1607.9 Loads on handrails, guards, grab bars , shower seats, dressing room bench and seats. Handrails and guards shall be designed and constructed for the structural loading conditions set forth in Section 1607.9.1. Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches shall be designed and constructed for the structural loading conditions set forth in Section 1607.9.2.

  1607.9.1 Concentrated load. Handrails and guards shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 200 pounds (0.89 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.1 of ASCE 7. Glass handrail assemblies and guards shall comply with Section 2407.

  1607.9.1.1 Uniform load. Handrails and guards shall be designed to resist a linear load of 50 pounds per linear foot (plf) (0.73 kN/m) in accordance with Section 4.5.1.1 of ASCE 7. This load need not be assumed to act concurrently with the concentrated load specified in Section 1607.9.1.

  Exceptions:

  1. For one- and two-family dwellings, only the single concentrated load required by Section 1607.9.1 shall be applied.
  2. In Group I-3, F, H and S occupancies, for areas that are not accessible to the general public and that have an occupant load less than 50, the minimum load shall be 20 pounds per foot (0.29 kN/m).
  3. For roofs not intended for occupancy, only the single concentrated load required by Section 1607.9.1 shall be applied.

  1607.9.1.2 Guard component loads. Balusters, panel fillers and guard infill components, including all rails except the handrail and the top rail, shall be designed to resist a concentrated load of 50 pounds (0.22 kN) in accordance with Section 4.5.1.2 of ASCE 7.

  1607.9.2 Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches. Grab bars, shower seats and accessible benches shall be designed to resist a single concentrated load of 250 pounds (1.11 kN) applied in any direction at any point on the grab bar, shower seat, or seat of the accessible bench so as to produce the maximum load effects. [DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section 1127A.4 and Chapter 11B, Sections 11B-609.8, 11B-610.4 and 11B-903.6 for grab bars, shower seats and dressing room bench seats, as applicable.

• CRC § 0.5 Medium relevance — show source text

  0_|1.0|1.0|1.0|0.6| |Wind on Structure (W)|1.0|1.0|0.75|—|—| |Current on Structure (C)|1.0|1.0|1.0|—|—| |Earth Pressure on the Structure (H)|1.0|1.0|1.0|1.0|1.0| |Mooring/Breasting Load (M)|—|1.0|—|—|—| |Berthing Load (Be)|—|—|1.0|—|—| |Earthquake Load (E)|—|—|—|0.7|0.7| |% Allowable Stress|100|100|100|1002|1002| |1. k = 0.5 (PGA)
  2. Increase in allowable stress shall not be used with these load combinations unless it can be demonstrated that such increase is justified by structural behavior caused by rate or
  duration of load. See ASCE/SEI 7 [3.21]|1. k = 0.5 (PGA)
  2. Increase in allowable stress shall not be used with these load combinations unless it can be demonstrated that such increase is justified by structural behavior caused by rate or
  duration of load. See ASCE/SEI 7 [3.21]|1. k = 0.5 (PGA)
  2. Increase in allowable stress shall not be used with these load combinations unless it can be demonstrated that such increase is justified by structural behavior caused by rate or
  duration of load. See ASCE/SEI 7 [3.21]|1. k = 0.5 (PGA)
  2. Increase in allowable stress shall not be used with these load combinations unless it can be demonstrated that such increase is justified by structural behavior caused by rate or
  duration of load. See ASCE/SEI 7 [3.21]|1. k = 0.5 (PGA)
  2. Increase in allowable stress shall not be used with these load combinations unless it can be demonstrated that such increase is justified by structural behavior caused by rate or
  duration of load. See ASCE/SEI 7 [3.21]|1. k = 0.5 (PGA)
  2. Increase in allowable stress shall not be used with these load combinations unless it can be demonstrated that such increase is justified by structural behavior caused by rate or
  duration of load. See ASCE/SEI 7 [3.21]|

  2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 31F-31

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

  MARINE OIL TERMINALS

  3103F.9 Miscellaneous loads. Handrails and guardrails shall be designed for 25 plf with a 200-pound minimum concentrated load in any location or direction.

  3103F.10 Symbols.

  a = Distance between the vessel’s center of gravity and the point of contact on the vessel’s side, projected onto the vessel’s longitudi- nal axis [ft]

• CRC § 5-43 Medium relevance — show source text

  2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 5-43

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

  FLOORS

  R507.10 Exterior guards. Guards shall be constructed to meet the requirements of Sections R301.5 and R321, and this section.

  R507.10.1 Support of guards. Where guards are supported on deck framing, guard loads shall be transferred to the deck framing with a continuous load path to the deck joists.

  R507.10.1.1 Guards supported by side of deck framing. Where guards are connected to the interior or exterior side of a deck joist or beam, the joist or beam shall be connected to the adjacent joists to prevent rotation of the joist or beam. Connections relying only on fasteners in end grain withdrawal are not permitted.

  R507.10.1.2 Guards supported on top of deck framing. Where guards are mounted on top of the decking, the guards shall be connected to the deck framing or blocking and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions to transfer the guard loads to the adjacent joists.

  R507.10.2 Wood posts at deck guards. Where 4-inch by 4-inch (102 mm by 102 mm) wood posts support guard loads applied to the top of the guard, such posts shall not be notched at the connection to the supporting structure.

  R507.10.3 Plastic composite guards. Plastic composite guards shall comply with the provisions of Section R507.2.2.

  R507.10.4 Other guards. Other guards shall be in accordance with either manufacturer’s instructions or accepted engineering principles.

  5-44 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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

  CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

  CHAPTER 6 – WALL CONSTRUCTION

  (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

  Adopting agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	HCD	Col6	Col7	DSA	Col9	Col10	OSHPD	Col12	Col13	Col14	Col15	Col16	BSCC	DPH	AGR	DWR	CEC	CA	SL	SLC
  Adopting agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	1	2	1/AC	AC	SS	SS/CC	1	1R	2	3	4	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5	5
  Adopt entire chapter
  Adopt entire chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)				X	X
  Adopt only those sections that are listed below
  Chapter / Section
  R602.1.

• CRC § 3-22 Medium relevance — show source text

  
  2.
  The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are not greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal.
  3.
  Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord member depth.
  The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than 10 pounds per square foot.
  h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a load adjustment factor of 4. The load adjustment factor shall be applied to each of the concentrated
  loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one another, and loads are assumed not to
  occur with any other live load.
  i. Where the top of a guard system is not required to serve as a handrail, the single concentrated load shall be applied at any point along the top, in the vertical downward direc-
  tion and in the horizontal direction away from the walking surface. Where the top of a guard is also serving as the handrail, a single concentrated load shall be applied in any
  direction at any point along the top. Concentrated loads shall not be applied concurrently.|

  3-22 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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

  BUILDING PLANNING

  R301.6 Roof load. The roof shall be designed for the live load indicated in Table R301.6 or the ground snow load indicated in Table R301.2, whichever is greater.

  TABLE R301.6—MINIMUM ROOF LIVE LOADS IN POUNDS-FORCE PER SQUARE FOOT OF HORIZONTAL PROJECTION	Col2	Col3	Col4
  ** ROOF SLOPE**	** TRIBUTARY LOADED AREA IN SQUARE FEET FOR ANY STRUCTURAL MEMBER**	** TRIBUTARY LOADED AREA IN SQUARE FEET FOR ANY STRUCTURAL MEMBER**	** TRIBUTARY LOADED AREA IN SQUARE FEET FOR ANY STRUCTURAL MEMBER**
  ** ROOF SLOPE**	** 0 to 200**	** 201 to 600**	** Over 600**
  Flat or rise less than 4 inches per foot (1:3)	20	16	12
  Rise 4 inches per foot (1:3) to less than 12 inches per foot (1:1)	16	14	12
  Rise 12 inches per foot (1:1) and greater	12	12	12
  For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.	For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.	For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.	For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.