CRC · California Residential Code

How are terms that are not defined in Chapter 2 interpreted?

If a word in the California Residential Code isn’t defined in Chapter 2, first check Chapter 2 and other California codes; if still undefined, give it its ordinary, context‑appropriate meaning per § R201.4 (and consult Webster’s Third for Office of the State Fire Marshal matters).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

When a term used in the California Residential Code is not defined in Chapter 2, it must be given its ordinarily accepted meaning as the context implies — this is the rule in § R201.4. Start by checking Chapter 2 and the other methods in Section R201 (for example, definitions in other California codes) before resorting to dictionary meaning. For applications regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Webster’s Third New International Dictionary is explicitly identified as a source for ordinarily accepted meanings.

If a word isn’t defined in Chapter 2 or by an authorized source, read it in its ordinary, context‑appropriate sense (and consult Webster’s Third for SFM applications).

Requirements in detail

Interpretation hierarchy (how to decide)

When you encounter an undefined term, follow this decision order:

  • Check Chapter 2 (definitions in the CRC) first — if present, use that definition (Chapter 2, § R202).
  • If not in Chapter 2, check for definitions in other California codes referenced by the CRC (for example the California Building Standards Code / Title 24) — those definitions control where applicable (§ R201.3).
  • If the term remains undefined after the above, assign the ordinarily accepted meaning that the context implies, per § R201.4.
  • For SFM‑regulated applications listed in § 1.11, Webster’s Third New International Dictionary is specifically identified as an authoritative source for ordinarily accepted meanings.

Decision table — quick reference

Decision factor What you do / look for Code Reference
Term defined in Chapter 2 Use the Chapter 2 definition exactly. § R201.1 / § R202 — see Chapter 2 definitions.
Term defined in other California codes or referenced documents Use the meaning from those codes (they govern when applicable). § R201.3.
Term not defined anywhere authorized by Section R201 Use the ordinarily accepted meaning that the context implies (apply common‑sense diction and context). § R201.4.
SFM applications (Section 1.11) Consider Webster’s Third New International Dictionary as providing ordinarily accepted meanings. § R201.4 (SFM note).

How to apply “ordinarily accepted meaning”

  • Read the code provision where the term appears to see how the term is used (purpose, required performance, dimensions, or relationships). Context can narrow meanings.
  • Prefer technical or trade usage where the same term has an accepted technical meaning in construction practice — but only if that usage is shown to be the sense intended by the code language and context.
  • When in doubt for SFM matters, consult Webster’s Third as called out by the CRC; for other cases, common collegiate dictionaries or authoritative industry usage may be relied upon consistent with the context.

Exceptions & special cases

  • SFM‑regulated applications: the CRC explicitly directs that, for Office of the State Fire Marshal applications, Webster’s Third New International Dictionary “shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.” This is a named exception within § R201.4 — treat Webster’s as the starting dictionary for those cases.
  • If a referenced standard (listed in Chapter 9 / referenced standards) defines the term, that definition controls for the provisions that rely on that standard — do not substitute an ordinary meaning. See § R201.3 and the CRC approach to referenced standards.
  • Local enforcing agencies or other California codes may adopt different, controlling definitions for their subject matter; those statutory/regulatory definitions may supersede an ordinary meaning where the CRC points to those other authorities. Check the specific adopting language in the applicable code or administrative rule.

Common mistakes

  • Treating “ordinarily accepted meaning” as permission to ignore Chapter 2 or referenced‑code definitions. Always check the hierarchy (Chapter 2 → other California codes/referenced standards → ordinary meaning).
  • Automatically reaching for an online dictionary or colloquial use without checking whether the term is defined elsewhere in the CRC, in referenced standards, or in other California codes.
  • Assuming Webster’s Third is the default dictionary for all CRC interpretations — it is explicitly cited only for SFM applications. For non‑SFM CRC applications, the CRC requires ordinarily accepted meanings “as the context implies” but does not mandate a single dictionary.
  • Imposing numerical thresholds (e.g., treating “adjacent” as meaning “within X feet”) without support from Chapter 2, the specific code provision context, or an applicable referenced standard.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A plan reviewer sees a CRC provision requiring a “covered outdoor living area adjacent to the main living space.” The term adjacent does not appear in Chapter 2. The reviewer must decide whether a covered area separated from the living room by a 2‑foot open paved strip qualifies as “adjacent.”

Step 1 — check Chapter 2 (R202): no “adjacent” definition. Step 2 — check other California codes/referenced standards (R201.3): none define “adjacent” for this provision. Step 3 — apply § R201.4: determine the ordinarily accepted meaning as the context implies. Consult Webster’s or collegiate dictionaries (for SFM work use Webster’s Third). Typical dictionary senses of adjacent are “next to” or “adjoining.” Applying that ordinary meaning to the provision’s intent (a covered area that functions as a contiguous extension of the living space), a 2‑foot open paved strip that separates the spaces suggests they are not “next to” or directly adjoining in the ordinary sense. Therefore, under § R201.4, the reviewer would reasonably find the covered area is not “adjacent” unless additional facts (doors, continuous flooring, direct access without steps) show functional adjacency. This outcome is driven by context and ordinary usage, not by inventing a specific numeric distance.

Related provisions

  • § R201.1 — Scope (Chapter 2 definitions apply for the purposes of the code).
  • § R201.2 — Interchangeability (grammatical rules: tense, gender, number).
  • § R201.3 — Terms defined in other codes (use definitions from other California codes where indicated).
  • § R202 — Chapter 2 definitions (the repository to check first).

Code references

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

  • CRC § 106.3 High 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 § 201.1 High relevance — show source text

    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 other California Codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in those codes. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] For terms not defined in this chapter, refer to Chapters 6 and 7 of the California Administrative Code, and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Definitions of terms given in Section 4-207 or 4-314 of the California Administrative Code govern over those in Section 202.

    201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

    SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS

    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 multi- family dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)

    [A] ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area, number of stories, or height of a building or structure.

    [A] ALTERATION. Any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than a repair or addition.

    [BG] AMBULATORY CARE FACILITY. Buildings or portions thereof used to provide medical, surgical, psychiatric, nursing or similar care on a less than 24-hour basis to persons who are rendered incapable of self-preservation by the services provided or staff has accepted responsibility for care recipients already incapable.

    [A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.

    Exception: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] “Approved” means meeting the approval of the Enforcing Agency, except as otherwise provided by law, when used in connection with any system, material, type of construction, fixture or appliance as the result of investigations and tests conducted by the agency, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by national authorities, or technical, health, or scientific organi- zations or agencies.

    Notes :

    1. See Health and Safety Code Section 17920 for “Approved” as applied to residential construction and buildings or struc- tures accessory thereto as referenced in Section 1.8.2. 2. See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.1 for “Approved” as applied to the use of hotplates in residential construction as referenced in Section 1.8.2.

    3. See Health and Safety Code Section 19966 for “Approved” as applied to Factory-Built Housing as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.5.

  • CRC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text

    Way_||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waiting Room|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Walk||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waterline||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |Wet Bar|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair Space|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Winery Caves|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Work Area Equipment|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Workstation_ (2nd paragraph_
    only)|||||||X||||||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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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 purposes of the code.

    ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [A], [BG] or [BS] will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.

    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 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.

  • CRC § 2-3 High 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 § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text

    REPAIR|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |ROOF REPLACEMENT|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |SPC SEISMIC SEPARATION||||||||||X|X|||||||||||||| |SUBSTANDARD BUILDING||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |SUBSTANTIAL STRUCTURAL
    DAMAGE||||||||||X|X|||||||||||||| |UNREINFORCED CONCRETE||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |UNREINFORCED MASONRY||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |UNSAFE|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |VOLUNTARY STRUCTURAL
    IMPROVEMENTS||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |WORK AREA|||X||||||||||||||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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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.

    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 other California Codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in those codes. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] For terms not defined in this chapter, refer to Chapters 6 and 7 of the California Administrative Code, and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Definitions of terms given in Section 4-207 or 4-314 of the California Administrative Code govern over those in Section 202.

    201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

    SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS

    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 multi- family dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)

  • 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 § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.

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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.

    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 stated in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; and 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 Existing Building Code, California Fire 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 their ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

    SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS

    ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A building or structure used to shelter or support any material, equipment, chattel or occupancy other than a habitable building.

    AGRICULTURE (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Land used for agricultural purposes as defined in a Local Jurisdiction's zoning ordinances. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(a)]

    APPLICABLE BUILDING. A building that has residential, commercial, educational, institutional or similar occupancy type use.

    [A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.

    [A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where such organization has been approved by the code official.

    [A] BUILDING. Any structure intended for supporting or sheltering any occupancy.

    BUILDING (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Any Structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or Occupancy, except those classified as Utility and Miscellaneous Group U. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(c)]

  • CRC § 203.7.3 Medium relevance — show source text


    Title 19, Division 1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.3.6 - 203.7.3.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.4.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.3.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.12|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.13|||X|||||||||||||||||||||

    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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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

  • CRC § 2-1 Medium relevance — show source text

    RESIDENTIAL
    CODE|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |LOW-RISE
    RESIDENTIAL BUILDING|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |PLANTS|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |RESIDENTIAL BUILDING|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |RESILIENT FLOORING|||||||||†||†||†||||||||||

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.

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    2 DEFINITIONS

    SECTION 201—GENERAL

    201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise 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 documents. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Stan- dards Code or other referenced documents, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those publications.

    201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined as specified in this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

    SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS

    2 X 2 RULE. [BSC-CG] Visual markers are the most effective collision deterrents if spaced no more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) apart, a distance through which most birds cannot fly.

    ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD] 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 singlefamily or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)

    ACCESSORY OCCUPANCIES. [HCD] Occupancies that are ancillary to the main occupancy of residential building(s) or portions thereof. Accessory occupancies shall include, but are not limited to, Group U occupancies. (See Section 312 of the California Build- ing Code. )

    ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. [HCD] A structure that is accessory to and incidental to that of the dwelling(s) and that is located on the same lot.

    ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area of an existing building or structure.

    ADHESIVE MARKER. [BSC-CG] An individual marker(s) applied to the first surface of glass (surface 1) in a pattern or as a custom decal.

    ADJUST. To regulate fluid flow rate and air patterns at the terminal equipment, such as to reduce fan speed or adjust a damper.

    AGRIFIBER PRODUCTS. Agrifiber products include wheatboard, strawboard, panel substrates and door cores, not including furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) not considered base building elements.

  • CRC § 2-1 Medium relevance — show source text

    CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS

    (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 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter X X X
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)    		 X X X
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    Chapter/Section
    201
    CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL
    CODE    		 † † †
    LOW-RISE
    RESIDENTIAL BUILDING    		 † † †
    PLANTS † † †
    RESIDENTIAL BUILDING † † †
    RESILIENT FLOORING † † †

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 2-1

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

    2-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    2 DEFINITIONS

    SECTION 201—GENERAL

    201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise 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 documents. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Stan- dards Code or other referenced documents, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those publications.

    201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined as specified in this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.

    SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS

  • CRC § 104.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    11B- 104.1 Dimensions. Dimensions that are not stated as “maximum” or “minimum” are absolute.

    11B- 104.1.1 Construction and manufacturing tolerances. All dimensions are subject to conventional industry tolerances except where the requirement is stated as a range with specific minimum and maximum end points.

    11B- 104.2 Calculation of percentages. Where the required number of elements or facilities to be provided is determined by calculations of ratios or percentages and remainders or fractions result, the next greater whole number of such elements or facilities shall be provided. Where the determination of the required size or dimension of an element or facility involves ratios or percentages, rounding down for values less than one half shall be permitted.

    11B- 104.3 Figures. Unless specifically stated otherwise, figures are provided for informational purposes only.

    FIGURE 11B -104—GRAPHIC CONVENTION FOR FIGURES

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 11B-3

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

    ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING

    SECTION 11B- 105—REFERENCED STANDARDS

    11B- 105.1 General. See Chapter 35.

    SECTION 11B- 106—DEFINITIONS

    11B- 106.1 General. For the purpose of this chapter, the terms listed in Section 11B- 106.5 and defined in Chapter 2 have the indicated meaning.

    11B- 106.2 Terms defined in referenced standards. Terms not listed in Section 11B- 106.5 and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, but specifically defined in a referenced standard, shall have the specified meaning from the referenced standard unless otherwise stated.

    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

  • CRC § 12-0 Medium relevance — show source text

    000|DR|DR|12-0|15-3|10-11|15-0|10-2|14-8| |8|2-#4
    1-#6|60,000|DR|DR|DR|DR|12-2|15-3|11-7|15-3| |8|2-#5|40,000|DR|DR|DR|DR|12-7|16-7|11-9|16-7| |8|2-#5|60,000|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|13-3|16-7| |8|2-#6|40,000|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|13-2|17-8| |8|2-#6|60,000|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR|DR| |12|1-#4|40,000|11-5|9-10|10-6|12-0|9-6|11-6|8-9|11-1| |12|1-#4|60,000|11-5|9-10|11-8|13-3|10-11|14-0|10-1|13-6| |12|1-#5|40,000|11-5|9-10|11-8|13-3|11-1|14-4|10-3|13-9| |12|1-#5|60,000|11-5|9-10|11-8|13-3|11-10|16-0|11-9|16-9| |12|2-#4
    1-#6|40,000|DR|DR|11-8|13-3|11-10|16-0|11-2|15-6| |12|2-#4
    1-#6|60,000|DR|DR|11-8|13-3|11-10|16-0|11-11|18-4| |12|2-#5|40,000|DR|DR|11-8|13-3|11-10|16-0|11-11|18-4| |12|2-#5|60,000|DR|DR|11-8|13-3|11-10|16-0|11-11|18-4| |16|1-#4|40,000|13-6|13-0|11-10|13-8|10-7|12-11|9-11|12-4| |16|1-#4|60,000|13-6|13-0|13-8|16-7|12-4|15-9|11-5|15-0| |16|1-#5|40,000|13-6|13-0|13-10|17-0|12-6|16-1|11-7|15-4| |16|1-#5|60,000|13-6|13-0|13-10|17-1|14-0|19-7|13-4|18-8| |16|2-#4
    1-#6|40,000|13-6|13-0|13-10|17-1|13-8|18-2|12-8|17-4| |16|2-#4
    1-#6|60,

Frequently asked questions

When should I stop searching and apply an ordinary meaning?

Stop after you have confirmed the term is not defined in Chapter 2, not defined in other California codes or referenced standards applicable to the provision, and there is no local adopting definition that controls; then apply § R201.4 and use the ordinarily accepted meaning that the context implies.

Is Webster’s the required dictionary for CRC interpretation?

No — Webster’s Third is specifically named for Office of the State Fire Marshal applications under § R201.4. For other CRC applications, the code directs you to use ordinarily accepted meanings as context implies; you may consult collegiate dictionaries or authoritative industry usage as appropriate.

Can a local jurisdiction adopt its own definition that overrides an ordinary meaning?

Yes. If the local enforcing agency or another California code provides a controlling definition for the subject matter, that definition governs over an ordinary meaning. Always check for local or referenced‑code definitions first.

Does “as the context implies” allow arbitrary interpretations?

No. “As the context implies” requires you to read the term within the specific code requirement (its purpose, dimensions, performance, and related clauses) and choose the ordinary meaning consistent with that context; it does not permit arbitrary or conflicting readings.

What practical tools help apply § R201.4?

Use (1) the Chapter 2 glossary (R202), (2) the referenced‑code definitions (R201.3), (3) reliable collegiate dictionaries (or Webster’s Third for SFM), and (4) documented industry practice or standards — always tying the chosen meaning to the specific code context.

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