CRC · California Residential Code

What installation and listing requirements apply to building-integrated PV (BIPV) roof panels?

BIPV roof panels used as the roof covering must be listed to UL 7103, installed on a solid or closely‑fitted wood deck at a slope of at least 2:12, have underlayment (and ice barriers where required), meet wind/load testing per the tables, and be attached exactly per the manufacturer’s instructions; see **§ R905.16**, **§ R905.16.5**, and **§ R905.16.6**.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Building‑integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof panels installed directly to the roof deck must meet the material, deck, slope, underlayment and attachment rules of § R905.16. BIPV roof panels must be listed and labeled to UL 7103 (§ R905.16.5) and must be attached per the manufacturer’s installation instructions (§ R905.16.6) in addition to complying with the electrical and system design provisions in § R329.

The single most important rule: BIPV roof panels used as the roof covering must be listed to UL 7103 and installed on a solid/closely‑fitted deck at a slope of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal or greater, following the manufacturer's instructions. § R905.16, § R905.16.5, § R905.16.6.

Requirements in detail

Scope and linking provisions

  • The installation of BIPV roof panels is governed by § R905.16 and must also comply with § R329 (PV system design) and the California Electrical Code. § R905.16.

Deck / substrate

  • BIPV roof panels must be fastened to wood structural panels, solid lumber sheathing, or closely‑fitted lumber sheathing (unless the product is specifically designed for spaced sheathing). § R905.16.1.

Minimum slope

  • Use is limited to roofs with a slope of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12 / ~17%) or greater. § R905.16.2.

Underlayment and ice barrier

  • Underlayment must comply with Section R905.1.1; where ice barriers are required they must comply with R905.1.2. § R905.16.3 and § R905.16.3.1.
  • In areas with ice‑dam history, an ice barrier of at least two layers of underlayment or a self‑adhering polymer‑modified bitumen sheet must extend from the lowest roof edges to not less than 24 inches (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line (exception applies to small detached accessory structures). § R905.16.4.

Listing / material standard

  • BIPV roof panels shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103. § R905.16.5.

Attachment

  • BIPV roof panels shall be attached in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. § R905.16.6.

Wind / structural resistance

  • BIPV roof panels must be tested to UL 7103 and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure per Table R301.2.1(2) (i.e., meet the same wind load requirements applicable to roof claddings). § R905.16.7.

Decision‑relevant dimensions/values (quick reference)

Item Required value or condition Code Reference
Deck / sheathing Wood structural panels, solid lumber, or closely‑fitted lumber (unless product allows spaced sheathing) § R905.16.1
Minimum roof slope 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12 / ~17%) § R905.16.2
Underlayment Must comply with § R905.1.1 § R905.16.3
Ice barrier (where required) 2 layers underlayment or self‑adhering polymer bitumen; extend ≥ 24 in (610 mm) inside exterior wall line § R905.16.4
Listing / fire‑test standard Listed & labeled to UL 7103 § R905.16.5
Attachment Per manufacturer’s installation instructions § R905.16.6
Wind resistance Must meet component & cladding loads in Table R301.2.1(1) adjusted by R301.2.1(2) § R905.16.7
System design / electrical Must comply with § R329 and the California Electrical Code § R905.16 / § R329

Exceptions & special cases

  • Detached accessory structures that do not contain conditioned floor area are excepted from the ice barrier requirement in § R905.16.4.
  • BIPV roofing systems that are in a different product type (for example, BIPV shingles) have parallel requirements under § R905.15 / § 1507.16 (material listing to UL 7103, attachment per manufacturer, slope and deck rules are similar) — see Related Provisions below.

Common mistakes

  • Installing BIPV panels over spaced sheathing when the product is not designed for it — verify the product’s listed installation condition per § R905.16.1.
  • Using a roof slope less than 2:12 — BIPV roof panels are not permitted below § R905.16.2’s threshold.
  • Assuming “PV” listing (e.g., UL 1703/61730) is sufficient for BIPV roof panels — BIPV roof panels specifically require UL 7103 listing per § R905.16.5.
  • Not following the manufacturer’s attachment instructions; the code mandates manufacturer’s instructions control the attachment method and pattern (§ R905.16.6).
  • Forgetting to check wind load requirements in Table R301.2.1(1) / R301.2.1(2) and the UL 7103 test parameters when specifying BIPV for high‑wind areas. § R905.16.7.

Worked example — residential roof scenario

Scenario: A homeowner in California wants to install BIPV roof panels directly to their roof deck. The roof is sheathed with 1/2" wood structural panels, slope is 3:12, house is not in a known ice‑dam area, and the local basic wind speed requires checking Table R301.2.1(1).

Steps that must be followed under the CRC:

  1. Confirm the product is listed and labeled to UL 7103 — required by § R905.16.5. If not listed to UL 7103, do not use as BIPV roof panels.
  2. Confirm the sheathing is an acceptable substrate (wood structural panel) per § R905.16.1; proceed since the deck is acceptable.
  3. Confirm slope is ≥ 2:12 — here 3:12 meets § R905.16.2 requirement.
  4. Install underlayment in accordance with § R905.1.1 as required by § R905.16.3 (follow the appropriate underlayment type and application).
  5. If the site had ice‑dam history, install the ice barrier extending ≥ 24 in (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line per § R905.16.4 — not applicable in this scenario but check local Table R301.2 for designation.
  6. Attach the panels exactly per the manufacturer’s installation instructions (fastener type, pattern, sealants) as required by § R905.16.6. Document the installation instructions on the job.
  7. Verify wind resistance: confirm the product’s UL 7103 testing and ensure installed system resists the component/cladding loads per Table R301.2.1(1) adjusted by Table R301.2.1(2) for the building’s height/exposure (per § R905.16.7). If the UL report or manufacturer’s instructions do not demonstrate compliance with the required wind loads, consult an engineer or choose a different product.
  8. Ensure the electrical design and installation comply with § R329 and the California Electrical Code (permit/inspection items).

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § R329 — Photovoltaic system design and equipment listing requirements; ties roof installation to electrical/system rules.
  • § R902.3 — Fire classification requirement for BIPV roof coverings (UL 7103 referenced for fire classification).
  • § R905.15 / § 1507.16 — Parallel requirements for BIPV shingles (material standards, attachment, wind classification).
  • Table R301.2.1(1) & Table R301.2.1(2) — Component & cladding wind loads and adjustments by height/exposure that BIPV panels must resist (see § R905.16.7).

Code references

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

  • CRC § 1.2. High relevance — show source text

    R902.3 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems installed as the roof covering shall be tested, listed and labeled for fire classification in accordance with UL 7103 [SFM] Section R902.1 through R902.1.2. Class A, B or C BIPV products shall be installed where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line.

    R902.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be tested, listed and identified with a fire classification in accordance with UL 2703. Listed systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listing. Class A, B or C photovoltaic panel systems

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    ROOF ASSEMBLIES

    and modules shall be installed in jurisdictions designated by law as requiring their use or where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line.

    SECTION R903—WEATHER PROTECTION

    R903.1 General. Roof decks shall be covered with approved roof coverings secured to the building or structure in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Roof assemblies shall be designed and installed in accordance with this code and the approved manufacturer’s instructions such that the roof assembly shall serve to protect the building or structure.

    R903.2 Flashing. Flashings shall be installed in a manner that prevents moisture from entering the wall and roof through joints in copings, through moisture permeable materials and at intersections with parapet walls and other penetrations through the roof plane.

    R903.2.1 Locations. Flashings shall be installed at wall and roof intersections, wherever there is a change in roof slope or direction and around roof openings. A flashing shall be installed to divert the water away from where the eave of a sloped roof intersects a vertical sidewall. Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet).

    R903.2.2 Crickets and saddles. A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney or penetration more than 30 inches (762 mm) wide as measured perpendicular to the slope. Cricket or saddle coverings shall be sheet metal or of the same material as the roof covering.

    Exception: Unit skylights installed in accordance with Section R324.6 and flashed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions shall be permitted to be installed without a cricket or saddle.

    R903.3 Coping. Parapet walls shall be properly coped with noncombustible, weatherproof materials of a width not less than the thickness of the parapet wall.

    R903.4 Roof drainage. Unless roofs are sloped to drain over roof edges, roof drains shall be installed at each low point of the roof.

    R903.4.1 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers. Where roof drains are required, secondary emergency overflow roof drains or scuppers shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason.

  • CRC § 16.1 High relevance — show source text

    R905.16 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof panels applied directly to the roof deck. The installation of BIPV roof panels shall comply with the provisions of this section, Section R329 and the California Electrical Code .

    R905.16.1 Sheathing requirements. BIPV roof panels shall be fastened to wood structural panels, solid lumber sheathing or closely-fitted lumber sheathing, except where the roof covering is specifically designed to be applied over spaced lumber sheathing.

    R905.16.2 Slope. BIPV roof panels shall be used only on roof slopes of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17-percent slope) or greater.

    R905.16.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply with Section R905.1.1.

    R905.16.3.1 Ice barrier. Where required, an ice barrier shall comply with Section R905.1.2.

    R905.16.4 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup of water, as designated in Table R301.2, an ice barrier that consists of not less than two layers of underlayment cemented together or of a selfadhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet shall be used in lieu of normal underlayment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point not less than 24 inches (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line of the building.

    Exception: Detached accessory structures that do not contain conditioned floor area.

    R905.16.5 Material standards. BIPV roof panels shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.

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    ROOF ASSEMBLIES

    R905.16.6 Attachment. BIPV roof panels shall be attached in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    R905.16.7 Wind resistance of BIPV roof panels. BIPV roof panels shall be tested in accordance with UL 7103 and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).

    SECTION R906—ROOF INSULATION

    R906.1 General. Where above-deck thermal insulation is installed, such insulation shall be covered with an approved roof covering and shall comply with NFPA 276 or UL 1256.

    R906.2 Material standards. Above-deck thermal insulation board shall comply with the standards in Table R906.2.

    TABLE R906.2—MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR ROOF INSULATION Col2
    MATERIAL STANDARD
    Cellular glass board ASTM C552or ASTM C1902
    Composite boards ASTM C1289, Type III, IV, V or VI
    Expanded polystyrene ASTM C578
    Extruded polystyrene board ASTM C578
    Fiber-reinforced gypsum board ASTM C1278
    Glass-faced gypsum board ASTM C1177
    Mineral wool board ASTM C726
    Perlite board ASTM C728
    Polyisocyanurate board ASTM C1289, Type I or II
    Wood fiberboard ASTM C208
  • CRC § 1505.7 High relevance — show source text

    [BF] 1505.7 Special purpose roofs. Special purpose wood shingle or wood shake roofing shall conform to the grading and application requirements of Section 1507.8 or 1507.9. In addition, an underlayment of [5] / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) Type X water-resistant gypsum backing board or gypsum sheathing shall be placed under minimum nominal [1] / 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) wood structural panel solid sheathing or 1-inch (25 mm) nominal spaced sheathing.

    [BF] 1505.8 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. BIPV products installed as the roof covering shall be tested, listed and labeled for fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.1.

    [BF] 1505.9 Rooftop mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Rooftop mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall be tested, listed and identified with a fire classification in accordance with UL 2703. Listed systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listing. The fire classification shall comply with Table 1505.1 based on the type of construction of the building.

    [BF] 1505.10 Landscaped and vegetative roofs. Landscaped and vegetative roofs shall comply with Sections 1505.1 and 1507.15. Vegetative roofs shall be installed in accordance with ANSI/SPRI VF-1.

    SECTION 1506—MATERIALS

    1506.1 Scope. The requirements set forth in this section shall apply to the application of roof-covering materials specified herein. Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with this chapter and the roof covering listing as required by Section 1505. Installation of roof coverings shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 1507.

    1506.2 Material specifications and physical characteristics. Roof-covering materials shall conform to the applicable standards listed in this chapter.

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    ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES

    1506.3 Product identification. Roof-covering materials shall be delivered in packages bearing the manufacturer’s identifying marks and approved testing agency labels required in accordance with Section 1505. Bulk shipments of materials shall be accompanied with the same information issued in the form of a certificate or on a bill of lading by the manufacturer.

    SECTION 1507—REQUIREMENTS FOR ROOF COVERINGS

    1507.1 Scope. Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

  • CRC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    R329.3 Photovoltaic systems. Photovoltaic ( PV ) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.3.1 through R329.8.1 and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The electrical portion of solar PV systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.

    R329.3.1 Equipment listings. Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction. Mounting systems listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2703 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listings. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof coverings and BIPV roof assemblies shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.

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    BUILDING PLANNING

    R329.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section.

    R329.4.1 Structural requirements. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed to structurally support the system and withstand applicable gravity loads in accordance with Chapter 3. The roof on which these systems are installed shall be designed and constructed to support the loads imposed by such systems in accordance with Chapter 8.

    R329.4.1.1 Roof load. Portions of roof structures not covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for dead loads and roof loads in accordance with Sections R301.4 and R301.6. Portions of roof structures covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for the following load cases:

    1. Dead load (including photovoltaic panel weight) plus snow load in accordance with Table R301.2.
    2. Dead load (excluding photovoltaic panel weight) plus roof live load or snow load, whichever is greater, in accordance with Section R301.6.

    R329.4.1.2 Wind load. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel or module systems and their supports shall be designed and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).

    R329.4.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall have the same fire classification as the roof assembly required in Section R902.

    R329.4.3 Roof penetrations. Roof penetrations shall be flashed and sealed in accordance with Chapter 9.

    R329.5 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.5.1 through R329.5.2.

    R329.5.1 BIPV roofing systems. BIPV roofing systems shall comply with Section R905.15. BIPV roof panels shall comply with Section R905.16.

    R329.5.1.1 Fire classification. Building-integrated photovoltaic systems shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section R902.3.

  • CRC § 1.2 High relevance — show source text

    R902.1.2 Roof coverings in all other areas other than Fire Hazard Severity Zones or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) area. The entire roof covering of every existing structure where more than 50 percent of the total roof area is replaced within any one-year period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or replacement of the roof of every existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class C fire classification.

    R902.2 Fire-retardant-treated shingles and shakes. Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles are wood shakes and shin- gles complying with UBC Standard 15-3 or 15-4 which are impregnated by the full-cell vacuum-pressure process with fire-retardant chemicals, and which have been qualified by UBC Standard 15-2 or ASTM E108 or UL 790 for use on Class A, B or C roofs. Fire-retardant- treated wood shakes and shingles shall comply with ICC-ES EG107 and with the weathering requirements contained in Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7 (j). Each bundle shall bear labels from an ICBO accredited quality control agency identifying their roof-covering classification and indicating their compliance with ICC-ES EG107 and with the weathering requirements contained in Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7 (j).

    Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7 (j) No wood roof covering materials shall be sold or applied in this state unless both of the following conditions are met: (1) The materials have been approved and listed by the State Fire Marshal as complying with the requirements of this section. (2) The materials have passed at least five years of the 10-year natural weathering test. The 10-year natural weathering test required by this subdivision shall be conducted in accordance with Standard 15-2 of the 1994 edition of the Uniform Building Code at a testing facility recognized by the State Fire Marshal.

    R902.3 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems installed as the roof covering shall be tested, listed and labeled for fire classification in accordance with UL 7103 [SFM] Section R902.1 through R902.1.2. Class A, B or C BIPV products shall be installed where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line.

    R902.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems installed on or above the roof covering shall be tested, listed and identified with a fire classification in accordance with UL 2703. Listed systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and their listing. Class A, B or C photovoltaic panel systems

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    ROOF ASSEMBLIES

    and modules shall be installed in jurisdictions designated by law as requiring their use or where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line.

    SECTION R903—WEATHER PROTECTION

  • CRC § 16.6 High relevance — show source text

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    ROOF ASSEMBLIES

    R905.16.6 Attachment. BIPV roof panels shall be attached in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    R905.16.7 Wind resistance of BIPV roof panels. BIPV roof panels shall be tested in accordance with UL 7103 and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).

    SECTION R906—ROOF INSULATION

    R906.1 General. Where above-deck thermal insulation is installed, such insulation shall be covered with an approved roof covering and shall comply with NFPA 276 or UL 1256.

    R906.2 Material standards. Above-deck thermal insulation board shall comply with the standards in Table R906.2.

    TABLE R906.2—MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR ROOF INSULATION Col2
    MATERIAL STANDARD
    Cellular glass board ASTM C552or ASTM C1902
    Composite boards ASTM C1289, Type III, IV, V or VI
    Expanded polystyrene ASTM C578
    Extruded polystyrene board ASTM C578
    Fiber-reinforced gypsum board ASTM C1278
    Glass-faced gypsum board ASTM C1177
    Mineral wool board ASTM C726
    Perlite board ASTM C728
    Polyisocyanurate board ASTM C1289, Type I or II
    Wood fiberboard ASTM C208

    SECTION R907—ROOFTOP-MOUNTED PHOTOVOLTAIC PANEL SYSTEMS

    R907.1 Rooftop-mounted (PV) photovoltaic panel systems. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section R329 and the California Electrical Code .

    R907.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall have the fire classification as required by Section R902.4.

    R907.3 Installation. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    R907.4 Photovoltaic panels and modules. Photovoltaic panel systems mounted on top of a roof shall be listed and labeled in accor- dance with UL 2703 and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    R907.5 Fire safety provisions for photovoltaic panel system. Solar photovoltaic panel systems installed upon a roof or as an integral part of a roof assembly shall comply with the requirements of this code and the California Fire Code.

    SECTION R908—REROOFING

    R908.1 General. Materials and methods of application used for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.

  • CRC § 15.3 High relevance — show source text

    R905.15.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply with Section R905.1.1.

    R905.15.3.1 Ice barrier. Where required, ice barriers shall comply with Section R905.1.2.

    R905.15.4 Material standards. BIPV shingles shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.

    R905.15.5 Attachment. BIPV shingles shall be attached in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    R905.15.6 Wind resistance. BIPV shingles shall comply with the classification requirements of Table R905.15.6 for the appropriate maximum basic wind speed.

    TABLE R905.15.6—CLASSIFICATION OF BIPV SHINGLES Col2 Col3
    MAXIMUM ULTIMATE DESIGN WIND SPEED,
    Vult, FROM FIGURE R301.2(2) (mph)    		 *MAXIMUM BASIC WIND SPEED,***V ****ASD, **
    FROM TABLE R301.2.1.3 (mph)    		 UL 7103 SHINGLE
    CLASSIFICATION
    110 85 A, D or F
    116 90 A, D or F
    129 100 A, D or F
    142 110 F
    155 120 F
    168 130 F
    181 140 F
    194 150 F
    For SI: 1 mile per hour = 1.609 kph. For SI: 1 mile per hour = 1.609 kph. For SI: 1 mile per hour = 1.609 kph.

    R905.16 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roof panels applied directly to the roof deck. The installation of BIPV roof panels shall comply with the provisions of this section, Section R329 and the California Electrical Code .

    R905.16.1 Sheathing requirements. BIPV roof panels shall be fastened to wood structural panels, solid lumber sheathing or closely-fitted lumber sheathing, except where the roof covering is specifically designed to be applied over spaced lumber sheathing.

    R905.16.2 Slope. BIPV roof panels shall be used only on roof slopes of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17-percent slope) or greater.

    R905.16.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply with Section R905.1.1.

    R905.16.3.1 Ice barrier. Where required, an ice barrier shall comply with Section R905.1.2.

    R905.16.4 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup of water, as designated in Table R301.2, an ice barrier that consists of not less than two layers of underlayment cemented together or of a selfadhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet shall be used in lieu of normal underlayment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof surfaces to a point not less than 24 inches (610 mm) inside the exterior wall line of the building.

    Exception: Detached accessory structures that do not contain conditioned floor area.

    R905.16.5 Material standards. BIPV roof panels shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103.

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  • CRC § 3111.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    3111.2.1 Equipment. Solar thermal systems and components shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ICC 900/SRCC 300 and ICC 901/SRCC 100.

    3111.3 Photovoltaic solar energy systems. Photovoltaic solar energy systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section, the California Fire Code, the California Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    3111.3.1 Equipment. Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.

    3111.3.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.9. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems installed as roof coverings shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.8.

    3111.3.3 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. BIPV systems installed as roof coverings shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 1507.

    [F] 3111.3.4 Access and pathways. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements shall be provided in accordance with Section 1205 of the California Fire Code .

    3111.3.5 Elevated photovoltaic (PV) support structures. Elevated PV support structures shall comply with either Section 3111.3.5.1 or 3111.3.5.2.

    Exception: Elevated PV support structures that are installed over agricultural uses.

    3111.3.5.1 Photovoltaic (PV) panels installed over open-grid framing or a noncombustible deck. Elevated PV support structures with PV panels installed over open-grid framing or over a noncombustible deck shall have PV panels tested, listed and labeled with a fire type rating in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Photovoltaic panels marked “not fire rated” shall not be installed on elevated PV support structures.

    3111.3.5.2 Photovoltaic (PV) panels installed over a roof assembly. Elevated PV support structures with a PV panel system installed over a roof assembly shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.9.

    3111.3.6 Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems. Ground-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Chapter 16 and the California Fire Code .

    3111.3.6.1 Fire separation distances. Ground-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall be subject to the fire separation distance requirements determined by the local jurisdiction.

    SECTION 3112—GREENHOUSES

    3112.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to greenhouses that are designed and used for the cultivation, maintenance, or protection of plants.

    [BE] 3112.2 Accessibility. Greenhouses shall be accessible in accordance with Chapter 11. [HCD 1] Greenhouses accessory to covered multifamily dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2, used as a common use facility, shall be on an accessible route in accordance with Chapter 11A.

    3112.3 Structural design. Greenhouses shall comply with the structural design requirements for greenhouses in Chapter 16.

  • CRC § 1204.6 High relevance — show source text

    1204.6 Cords and wiring. Extension cords and temporary wiring used to connect portable generators shall be in accordance with Section 603 and shall be provided with GFCI protection.

    1204.7 Connections to premise wiring. Connections to a premise wiring system shall comply with all of the following:

    1. Power shall not be provided in a manner that “back-feeds” receptacles or the premise wiring system.

    2. Connection to a premise served by commercial power shall be made through a listed transfer switch installed, used and maintained in accordance with the California Electrical Code .

    3. Connections to buildings not served by commercial power shall comply with the California Electrical Code .

    1204.8 Refueling. Portable generators shall not be refueled while operating.

    1204.9 Storage and repair. Storage and repair of fuel-fired portable generators shall comply with Section 313.

    1204.10 Fire extinguisher. A listed portable fire extinguisher complying with Section 906 with a minimum rating of 2-A:20-B:C shall be provided not more than 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the portable generator.

    SECTION 1205—SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SYSTEMS

    1205.1 General. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Building Code or California Resi- dential Code . The electrical portion of solar PV systems shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code . Rooftopmounted solar photovoltaic systems shall be installed in accordance with Sections 1205.2 through 1205.4.3. Ground-mounted solar photovoltaic systems shall comply with Section 1205.5.

    1205.2 Access and pathways. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1205.2.1 through 1205.3.3. Pathways shall be over areas capable of supporting firefighters accessing the roof. Pathways shall be located in areas with minimal obstructions, such as vent pipes, conduit or mechanical equipment.

    Exceptions:

    1. Detached, nonhabitable Group U structures including, but not limited to, detached garages serving Group R-3 buildings, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures.
    2. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements need not be provided where the fire code official has determined that rooftop operations will not be employed.
    3. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems where the BIPV systems are approved, integrated into the finished roof surface and are listed in accordance with UL 3741. The removal or cutting away of portions of the BIPV system during firefighting operations shall not expose a firefighter to electrical shock hazards.

    1205.2.1 Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for Group R-3 buildings. Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for Group R-3 buildings shall comply with Sections 1205.2.1.1 through 1205.2.3.

    Exceptions:

    1. These requirements shall not apply to structures designed and constructed in accordance with the California Residen- tial Code .

    2. These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (16.7-percent slope) or less.

  • CRC § 4.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    R329.4.1.1 Roof load. Portions of roof structures not covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for dead loads and roof loads in accordance with Sections R301.4 and R301.6. Portions of roof structures covered with photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for the following load cases:

    1. Dead load (including photovoltaic panel weight) plus snow load in accordance with Table R301.2.
    2. Dead load (excluding photovoltaic panel weight) plus roof live load or snow load, whichever is greater, in accordance with Section R301.6.

    R329.4.1.2 Wind load. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel or module systems and their supports shall be designed and installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table R301.2.1(2).

    R329.4.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems shall have the same fire classification as the roof assembly required in Section R902.

    R329.4.3 Roof penetrations. Roof penetrations shall be flashed and sealed in accordance with Chapter 9.

    R329.5 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections R329.5.1 through R329.5.2.

    R329.5.1 BIPV roofing systems. BIPV roofing systems shall comply with Section R905.15. BIPV roof panels shall comply with Section R905.16.

    R329.5.1.1 Fire classification. Building-integrated photovoltaic systems shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section R902.3.

    R329.5.2 BIPV exterior wall coverings and fenestration. BIPV exterior wall coverings and fenestration shall comply with Section R705.

    R329.6 Roof access and pathways. Roof access, pathways and setback requirements shall be provided in accordance with Sections R329.6.1 through R329.6.2.1. Access and minimum spacing shall be required to provide emergency access to the roof, to provide pathways to specific areas of the roof, provide for smoke ventilation opportunity areas, and to provide emergency egress from the roof.

    Exceptions:

    1. Detached, nonhabitable structures, including but not limited to detached garages, parking shade structures, carports, solar trellises and similar structures, shall not be required to provide roof access.
    2. Roof access, pathways and setbacks need not be provided where the enforcing agency has determined that rooftop operations will not be employed.
    3. These requirements shall not apply to roofs with slopes of 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17-percent slope) or less.
    4. BIPV systems listed in accordance with UL 3741, where the removal or cutting away of portions of the BIPV system during firefighting operations has been determined to not expose a firefighter to electrical shock hazards.
  • CRC § 1410.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1410—PLASTIC COMPOSITE DECKING

    [BS] 1410.1 Plastic composite decking. Exterior deck boards, stair treads, handrails and guards constructed of plastic composites, including plastic lumber, shall comply with Section 2612.

    SECTION 1411—BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC (BIPV) SYSTEMS FOR EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND FENESTRATION

    1411.1 Listing required. In addition to complying with other provisions of this code, building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems used as exterior wall coverings or fenestration shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2.

    SECTION 1412—SOFFITS AND FASCIAS AT ROOF OVERHANGS

    1412.1 General. Soffits and fascias at roof overhangs shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section.

    1412.2 General wind requirements. Soffits and fascias shall be capable of resisting the component and cladding loads for walls determined in accordance with Chapter 16 using an effective wind area of 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ).

    1412.3 Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels. Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels shall comply with Section 1412.2, shall be installed using fasteners specified by the manufacturer and shall be fastened at both ends to a supporting component such as a nailing strip, fascia or subfascia component in accordance with Figure 1412.3(1). Where the unsupported span of soffit panels is greater than 12 inches (406 mm) and the design wind pressure is greater than 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or the unsupported span of soffit panels is greater than 16 inches (406 mm) and the wind pressure is 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or less, intermediate nailing strips shall be provided in accordance with Figure 1412.3(2). Vinyl and aluminum soffit panels shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    FIGURE 1412.3(1)—SINGLE-SPAN VINYL OR ALUMINUM SOFFIT PANEL SUPPORT

    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-21

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

    EXTERIOR WALLS

    FIGURE 1412.3(2)—DOUBLE-SPAN VINYL OR ALUMINUM SOFFIT PANEL SUPPORT

    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

    1412.4 Fiber-cement soffit panels. Fiber-cement soffit panels shall comply with Section 1412.2, shall be not less than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness and shall comply with the requirements of ASTM C1186, Type A, minimum Grade II, or ISO 8336, Category A, minimum Class 2. Panel joints shall occur over framing or over wood structural panel sheathing. Soffit panels shall be installed with spans and fasteners in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

  • CRC § 3110.3 High relevance — show source text

    3110.3 Vehicular gate openers. Vehicular gate openers, where provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.

    SECTION 3111—SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

    3111.1 General. Solar energy systems shall comply with the requirements of this section.

    3111.1.1 Wind resistance. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems and solar thermal collectors shall be designed in accordance with Section 1609.

    Exception: [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC, HCD-1, HCD-2] Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems and solar thermal collectors shall be designed in accordance with Section 1511.10 of this code.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 31-11

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

    SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION

    3111.1.2 Roof live load. Roof structures that provide support for solar energy systems shall be designed in accordance with Section 1607.15.

    3111.2 Solar thermal systems. Solar thermal systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section, the California Plumbing Code, the California Mechanical Code and the California Fire Code . Where light-transmitting plastic covers are used, solar thermal collectors shall be designed in accordance with Section 2606.12.

    3111.2.1 Equipment. Solar thermal systems and components shall be listed and labeled in accordance with ICC 900/SRCC 300 and ICC 901/SRCC 100.

    3111.3 Photovoltaic solar energy systems. Photovoltaic solar energy systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with this section, the California Fire Code, the California Electrical Code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    3111.3.1 Equipment. Photovoltaic panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1703 or with both UL 61730-1 and UL 61730-2. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.

    3111.3.2 Fire classification. Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic (PV) panel systems shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.9. Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems installed as roof coverings shall have a fire classification in accordance with Section 1505.8.

    3111.3.3 Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems. BIPV systems installed as roof coverings shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 1507.

    [F] 3111.3.4 Access and pathways. Roof access, pathways and spacing requirements shall be provided in accordance with Section 1205 of the California Fire Code .

    3111.3.5 Elevated photovoltaic (PV) support structures. Elevated PV support structures shall comply with either Section 3111.3.5.1 or 3111.3.5.2.

    Exception: Elevated PV support structures that are installed over agricultural uses.

Frequently asked questions

Must BIPV roof panels be listed to UL 7103?

Yes. BIPV roof panels must be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 7103 per § R905.16.5.

Can BIPV panels be installed on spaced sheathing?

Only if the manufacturer’s product is specifically designed for spaced sheathing; otherwise BIPV panels must be fastened to wood structural panels, solid lumber or closely‑fitted lumber sheathing per § R905.16.1.

What roof slope is permitted for BIPV roof panels?

BIPV roof panels are permitted on roofs with slope 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2:12 / ~17%) or greater per § R905.16.2.

Who determines how panels are attached?

Attachment must follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions; the code requires installation in accordance with those instructions (§ R905.16.6).

Do BIPV panels have special wind requirements?

Yes — BIPV panels must be tested to UL 7103 and installed to resist the component and cladding loads in Table R301.2.1(1), adjusted by Table R301.2.1(2) for height and exposure (§ R905.16.7).

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