CRC · California Residential Code
Which CRC sections establish the scope and application for wall construction?
For homeowners: The California Residential Code says Chapter 6 is the controlling chapter for designing and building walls and partitions (**§ R601.1**). Walls must be able to carry loads per **§ R601.2** (which points you to Section R301 for the actual load values), and there’s a specific rule that certain compressible floor coverings (thicker than **1/8 inch** and compressing more than **1/32 inch** under a test load) must not extend beneath walls (**§ R601.2.1**).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The provisions of Chapter 6 control the design and construction of walls and partitions; the controlling section is § R601.1. Chapter 6 requires that walls be designed to carry and transmit all loads as required by § R601.2, which references the general load requirements in Section R301. These rules apply within the overall scope of the California Residential Code (which itself is limited to the one‑ and two‑family dwelling/townhouse scope in § R101.2).
The single most important rule: Chapter 6 controls wall and partition design and construction — follow § R601.1 and then satisfy the load and transmission requirements of § R601.2 (loads per Section R301).
Requirements in detail
Which sections set the scope and the immediate requirements
- § R601.1 — Application: Establishes that the provisions in Chapter 6 are the controlling provisions for wall and partition design and construction.
- § R601.2 — Requirements: States that wall construction must accommodate all loads imposed in accordance with Section R301 and must transmit those loads to supporting elements. Section R301 is the referenced source for load values and load combinations.
What Chapter 6 covers (types of walls)
Chapter 6 addresses the principal prescriptive wall types used in residential construction: wood framed, cold‑formed steel framed, masonry, concrete, and structural insulated panel (SIP) walls (this is stated in the Chapter 6 introduction).
Key numeric thresholds and decision points
| Decision dimension | Value / threshold | What that means for design or construction | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Which text controls wall design | Chapter 6 | Use Chapter 6 prescriptive provisions for walls & partitions | § R601.1 |
| Structural capacity / loads | Per Section R301 | Determine all imposed loads per Section R301, then design walls to carry/transmit them | § R601.2 (references R301) |
| Compressible floor covering limit under walls | Compresses more than 1/32 inch under 50 lb over 1 in² AND thickness greater than 1/8 inch | Such coverings shall not extend beneath walls/partitions fastened to the floor (to avoid settlement under the wall) | § R601.2.1 |
| Building types subject to CRC | Detached one‑ and two‑family dwellings and townhouses ≤ 3 stories | If your building is outside that scope, other codes (CBC/other) may apply | § R101.2 |
| Bracing & sheathing requirements | See R602 braced wall rules and tables | Follow the specific bracing methods and tables in R602 (continuous vs intermittent methods, seismic adjustments) | § R602 and R602.10 series |
(Where a table or full text is needed — e.g., specific braced‑wall lengths or fastener spacing — consult the specific R602 tables and figures cited in Chapter 6.)
Exceptions & special cases
- Appendix provisions do not apply unless specifically adopted by the enforcing agency — see § R101.2.1 for appendices adoption. If an appendix (or method) is not adopted, it is not mandatory.
- Chapter 6 addresses many wall types; there are special, separate requirements for concrete and masonry walls elsewhere in Chapter 6 (for example R608 for exterior concrete wall construction). Always read the specific material section (R602, R603, R606, R608, R610) after applying § R601.1.
- Seismic and wind design adjustments: certain bracing and sheathing rules change by Seismic Design Category and wind loads; those adjustments are handled inside the specific R602 bracing provisions (e.g., R602.10 and sub‑sections).
If you need a permitted alternative material or method not covered in Chapter 6, the building official may accept testing or historical evidence per the alternative methods provisions (see code administration sections), but that is an administrative determination — Chapter 1 provides the enforcement framework.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Chapter 6 applies to all building types: CRC applies to one‑ and two‑family dwellings/townhouses under § R101.2; larger or different occupancies follow the CBC or other codes.
- Designing walls without reference to Section R301 loads: § R601.2 explicitly requires walls to accommodate loads in accordance with Section R301 — you cannot rely on Chapter 6 alone for load values.
- Overlooking the compressible floor‑covering prohibition under walls: thin but compressible coverings that meet the numeric limits in § R601.2.1 shall not extend beneath walls fastened to the floor. Don’t assume any floor finish is acceptable beneath a wall.
- Mixing bracing rules incorrectly: continuous sheathing methods versus intermittent bracing methods have specific requirements and adjustment factors (see R602.10 series) — misapplying these leads to under‑braced walls.
Worked example — compressible flooring under a stud wall
Scenario: You are framing an interior partition fastened to a concrete slab‑on‑grade. You plan to run a 1/4‑inch thick resilient vinyl sheet under the partition framing.
Step 1 — Which section applies? Chapter 6 controls wall/partition construction under § R601.1, and § R601.2.1 controls compressible floor coverings beneath walls.
Step 2 — Compare the flooring to the numeric test in the code. § R601.2.1 says coverings that compress more than 1/32 inch (0.8 mm) when 50 lb is applied over a 1 in² area and are greater than 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) uncompressed shall not extend beneath walls fastened to the floor. Your resilient vinyl is 1/4 inch (greater than 1/8 inch). If lab/field test shows it compresses more than 1/32 inch under the 50‑lb 1 in² load, then per the code it must be removed from beneath the partition before the partition is fastened.
Result: If the vinyl meets both numeric conditions (thickness > 1/8 inch and compressibility > 1/32 inch under the specified load), you must not place it under the wall; either remove it locally or recess the floor finish so the wall bears directly on the slab. This is an immediate application of § R601.2.1.
Related provisions
- § R601.2 — General load and transmission requirement for walls (references Section R301).
- § R602 (and R602.1, R602.10 series) — Wood wall framing and bracing provisions for prescriptive framing and braced wall lines.
- § R603 — Cold‑formed steel wall framing (material‑specific rules).
- § R606 — General masonry construction (masonry‑specific rules within Chapter 6).
- § R608 — Exterior concrete wall construction (concrete wall rules in Chapter 6).
- § R610 — Structural insulated panel (SIP) wall construction (SIP‑specific rules).
- § R101.2 — Overall CRC scope (what building types the CRC applies to).
- Section R301 — Loads and loading combinations referred to by § R601.2 (text of R301 not included in the search results here; consult that section directly when calculating loads).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 1.1 High relevance — show source text
1.1||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R602.3.4.1||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R606.1.1||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R608.1||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R610.1||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |R610.4_Note_||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: †
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 6-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
6-2 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
6 WALL CONSTRUCTION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 6 contains prescriptive provisions for the design and construction of walls. The wall construction covered in Chapter 6 consists of five different types: wood framed, cold-formed steel framed, masonry, concrete and structural insulated panel (SIP). The primary concern of this chapter is the structural integrity of wall construction and transfer of all imposed loads to the supporting structure.
SECTION R601—GENERAL
R601.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design and construction of walls and partitions for buildings.
R601.2 Requirements. Wall construction shall be capable of accommodating all loads imposed in accordance with Section R301 and of transmitting the resulting loads to the supporting structural elements. R601.2.1 Compressible floor-covering materials. Compressible floor-covering materials that compress more than [1] / 32 inch (0.8 mm) when subjected to 50 pounds (23 kg) applied over 1 inch square (645 mm) of material and are greater than [1] / 8 inch (3.2 mm) in thickness in the uncompressed state shall not extend beneath walls, partitions or columns, which are fastened to the floor.
SECTION R602—WOOD WALL FRAMING
R602.1 General. Wood and wood-based products used for load-supporting purposes shall conform to the applicable provisions of this section.
R602.1.1 Sawn lumber. Sawn lumber shall be identified by a grade mark of an accredited lumber grading or inspection agency and have design values certified by an accreditation body that complies with DOC PS 20. In lieu of a grade mark, a certification of inspection issued by a lumber grading or inspection agency meeting the requirements of this section shall be accepted.
Note: See Section R301.1.1.1 for limited-density owner- built rural dwellings.
R602.1.2 End-jointed lumber. Approved end-jointed lumber identified by a grade mark conforming to Section R602.1 shall be permitted to be used interchangeably with solid-sawn members of the same species and grade. End-jointed lumber used in an assembly required elsewhere in this code to have a fire-resistance rating shall have the designation “Heat Resistant Adhesive” or “HRA” included in its grade mark.
R602.1.3 Structural glued-laminated timbers. Glued-laminated timbers shall be manufactured and identified as required in ANSI A190.1, ANSI 117 and ASTM D3737.
R602.1.4 Structural log members. Structural log members shall comply with the provisions of ICC 400.
CRC § 2202.4.2 High relevance — show source text
2202.4.2 Modifications to AISC 358 Chapter 11 Welded Moment Connection. The welded sideplate steel moment connection shall be permitted, provided: 1. The beams shall consist of either rolled or built-up wide flange sections. 2. The biaxial dual-strong axis and column minor axis configurations of the moment connection shall be considered as an alternative system. 3. For SMF and IMF systems, U-shaped cover plates shall be used and the hinge-to-hinge span to beam depth, L h /d, shall be greater than or equal to 5. 4. The width-to-thickness ratios for beam flanges shall not be less than 3. 5. The spacing for lateral bracing of wide flange beams, L b , shall include the length of the side plate at beam ends. 6. The extension of the side plates beyond the face of the column shall be within the range of 0.77d to 1.0d. 7. The gap-to-side plate thickness ratio shall range from 2.1 to 2.3. Exception: The gap-to-side plate thickness ratio shall be permitted to be modified for moment connections with unequal beam sizes on opposite sides of the column or when orthogonal beams acting as drag connections frame into the side plate. 8. Demand critical fillet welds {2}, {5}, {5a} and {7} shall have Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) in accordance with AWS D1.1 for procedure, technique and acceptance. Inspect the beginning and end of these welds for a 6-inch length, plus any location along the length of the weld where a start and restart is visually noted for a distance of 6 inches on either side of the start/stop location.
2202.4.3 Modifications to AISC 358 Chapter 11 Bolted Moment Connection The bolted sideplate steel moment connection shall be permitted, provided: 1. The beams shall consist of either rolled or built-up wide flange sections. Columns shall consist of rolled or built-up wide flange sections or noncomposite built-up box or HSS with a minimum wall thickness of [3] / 4 inch (19 mm), or satisfy the requirements of width-to-thickness ratios of highly ductile members in AISC 341-16. 2. The biaxial dual-strong axis and column minor axis configurations of the moment connection shall be considered as an alternative system. 3. For SMF and IMF systems, on the sideplate standard or configuration A the U-shaped cover plates shall be used with the k dimension extension. The k dimension extension length is defined as beam depth d b /6, rounded to the nearest [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm).
CRC § 0.63 High relevance — show source text
For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c.CRC § 5-14 High relevance — show source text
Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R505 Cold-Formed Steel Floor Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-26
R507 Exterior Decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-26
CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R602 Wood Wall Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R603 Cold-Formed Steel Wall Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
R604 Wood Structural Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R605 Particleboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R606 General Masonry Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R607 Glass Unit Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-106
R608 Exterior Concrete Wall Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . 6-107
R609 Exterior Windows and Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-172
R610 Structural Insulated Panel Wall Construction . . . 6-175
CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R701 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R702 Interior Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R703 Exterior Wall Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
R704 Exterior Soffits and Fascias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
R705 BIPV Systems for Exterior Wall Coverings and Fenestration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35
CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
CRC § 5.4.7 High relevance — show source text
Where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the wall shall not exceed a whole-
number multiple of 12 inches such as, 12, 24, 36 and 48, that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi
or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R608.5.4.7 and Table R608.5.4(2).
h. See Table R608.3 for minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores.
i. “Top” means gravity load from roof or floor construction bears on top of wall. “Side” means gravity load from floor construction is transferred to wall from a wood ledger or
cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. For nonload-bearing walls and where floor framing members span parallel to the wall, the “Top” bearing condition is permitted
to be used.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an effective wind area of
10 square feet, topographic factor,Kzt, equal to 1.0, and Risk Category II.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R608.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the unsupported height of the wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table as indicated by shaded cells, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000
psi is permitted.
g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum spacings shown are
the values calculated for the specified bar size. Where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the wall shall not exceed a whole-
number multiple of 12 inches such as, 12, 24, 36 and 48, that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi
or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R608.5.4.7 and Table R608.5.4(2).
h. See Table R608.3 for minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores.
i. “Top” means gravity load from roof or floor construction bears on top of wall. “Side” means gravity load from floor construction is transferred to wall from a wood ledger or
cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall.CRC § 722.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text
FIGURE 722.5.2—DETERMINATION OF THE HEATED PERIMETER OF STRUCTURAL STEEL BEAMS AND GIRDERS
722.5.2.1 Determination of fire resistance. These procedures establish a basis for determining resistance of structural steel beams and girders that differ in size from that specified in approved fire-resistance-rated assemblies as a function of the thickness of fire-resistant material and the weight ( W) and heated perimeter (D) of the beam or girder. As used in these sections, W is the average weight of a structural steel element in pounds per linear foot (plf). The heated perimeter, D, is the inside perimeter of the fire-resistant material in inches as illustrated in Figure 722.5.2.
722.5.2.1.1 Weight-to-heated perimeter. The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratios (W/D), for both contour and box fire-resistant protection profiles, for the wide flange shapes most often used as beams or girders are given in Table 722.5.1(4). For different shapes, the weight-to-heated-perimeter ratios (W/D) shall be determined in accordance with the definitions given in this section.
722.5.2.1.2 Beam and girder substitutions. Except as provided for in Section 722.5.2.2, structural steel beams in approved fire-resistance-rated assemblies shall be considered to be the minimum permissible size. Other beam or girder shapes shall be permitted to be substituted provided that the weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio (W/D) of the substitute beam is equal to or greater than that of the beam specified in the approved assembly.
722.5.2.2 Sprayed fire-resistive materials (SFRM). The provisions in this section apply to structural steel beams and girders protected with sprayed fire-resistive materials ( SFRM ). Larger or smaller beam and girder shapes shall be permitted to be substituted for beams specified in approved unrestrained or restrained fire-resistance-rated assemblies, provided that the thickness of the SFRM is adjusted in accordance with the following expression:
Equation 7-17 h 2 = h 1 [( W 1 / D 1 ) + 0.60] / [( W 2 / D 2 ) + 0.60]
where:
h = Thickness of SFRM in inches.
W = Weight of the structural steel beam or girder in pounds per linear foot.
D = Heated perimeter of the structural steel beam in inches.
Subscript 1 refers to the beam and SFRM thickness in the approved assembly.
Subscript 2 refers to the substitute beam or girder and the required thickness of SFRM .
The fire resistance of structural steel beams and girders protected with intumescent fire-resistive materials shall be determined on the basis of fire-resistance tests in accordance with Section 703.2.
722.5.2.2.1 Minimum thickness. The use of Equation 7-17 is subject to the following conditions:
- The weight-to-heated-perimeter ratio for the substitute beam or girder (W 2 /D 2 ) shall be not less than 0.37.
- The thickness of fire protection materials calculated for the substitute beam or girder (T 1 ) shall be not less than [3] / 8 inch (9.5 mm).
CRC § 10.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Mixing of continuous sheathing methods CS-WSP, CS-G and CS-PF along a braced wall line shall be permitted. Intermittent methods ABW, PFH and PFG shall be permitted to be used along a braced wall line with continuous sheathed methods, provided that the length of required bracing for that braced wall line is determined in accordance with Table R602.10.3(1) or R602.10.3(3) using the highest value of the bracing methods used.
In Seismic Design Categories A and B, and for detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic Design Category C, mixing of intermittent bracing methods along the interior portion of a braced wall line with continuous sheathing methods CS-WSP, CS-G and CS-PF along the exterior portion of the same braced wall line shall be permitted. The length of required bracing shall be the highest value of all intermittent bracing methods used in accordance with Table R602.10.3(1) or R602.10.3(3) as adjusted by Tables R602.10.3(2) and R602.10.3(4), respectively. The requirements of Section R602.10.7 shall apply to each end of the continuously sheathed portion of the braced wall line. R602.10.4.2 Continuous sheathing methods. Continuous sheathing methods require structural panel sheathing to be used on all sheathable surfaces on one side of a braced wall line including areas above and below openings and gable end walls and shall meet the requirements of Section R602.10.7. R602.10.4.3 Braced wall panel interior finish material. Braced wall panels shall have gypsum wall board installed on the side of the wall opposite the bracing material. Gypsum wall board shall be not less than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) in thickness and be fastened with nails or screws in accordance with Table R602.3(1) for exterior sheathing or Table R702.3.5 for interior gypsum wall board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges for gypsum wall board opposite Method LIB bracing shall not exceed 8 inches (203 mm). Interior finish material shall not be glued in Seismic Design Categories D 0, D 1 and D 2 . Exceptions:
Interior finish material is not required opposite wall panels that are braced in accordance with Methods GB, BVWSP, ABW, PFH, PFG and CS-PF, unless otherwise required by Section R302.6.
An approved interior finish material with an in-plane shear resistance equivalent to gypsum board shall be permitted to be substituted, unless otherwise required by Section R302.6.
Except for Method LIB, gypsum wall board is permitted to be omitted provided that the required length of bracing in Tables R602.10.3(1) and R602.10.3(3) is multiplied by the appropriate adjustment factor in Tables R602.10.3(2) and R602.10.3(4), respectively, unless otherwise required by Section R302.6. R602.10.4.4 Panel joints. Vertical joints of panel sheathing shall occur over and be fastened to common studs. Horizontal joints of panel sheathing in braced wall panels shall occur over and be fastened to common blocking of a thickness of 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) or greater.
CRC § 4.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Col1 Col2 81~~/81~~/2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE RESOURCE A-109
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
RESOURCE A—GUIDELINES ON FIRE RATINGS OF ARCHAIC MATERIALS AND ASSEMBLIES
TABLE 4.1.3
REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS
DEPTH 14″ TO LESS THAN 16″Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 ITEM
CODEDEPTH CONSTRUCTION DETAILS PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE REFERENCE NUMBER REFERENCE NUMBER REFERENCE NUMBER NOTES REC. HOURS ITEM
CODEDEPTH CONSTRUCTION DETAILS LOAD TIME PRE-BMS-92 BMS-92 POST-BMS-92 POST-BMS-92 POST-BMS-92 B-15-RC-1 15″ Concrete flange: 4″ deep × 2' wide (3290 psi)
concrete; concrete beam: 10″ deep × 81/2″
wide; “I” beam reinforcement: 10″ × 41/2″ × 25
lbs R.S.J.; 4″ cover on bottom flange; 1″ cover
on top flange; flange reinforcement:3/8″ diam-
eter bars at 6″ pitch parallel to “T”;1/4″
diameter bars perpendicular to “T”; beam
reinforcement: 4″ × 6″ No. 13 SWG wire mesh;
span: 11′ restrained.10 tons 6 hrs 7 1–3,
5, 64 B-15-RC-2 15″ Concrete flange: 4″ deep × 2' wide (4820 psi)
concrete; concrete beam: 10″ deep × 81/2″
wide; “I” beam reinforcement: 10″ × 41/2″ × 25
lbs R.S.J.; 1″ cover over wire mesh on bottom
flange; 1″ cover on top flange; flange rein-
forcement:3/8″ diameter bars at 6″ pitch
parallel to “T”;1/4″ diameter bars perpendicu-
lar to “T”; beam reinforcement: 4″ × 6″ No. 13
SWG wire mesh; span: 11′ restrained.10 tons 6 hrs 7 1, 2,
4–64 For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 pound = 0.004448 kN, 1 pound per square inch = 0.00689 MPa, 1 ton = 8.896 kN.
Notes:
- Load concentrated at mid-span.
- Achieved 6-hour fire rating (Grade “A,” British).
CRC § 2.2.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 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 Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section BK 108 X 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE APPENDIX BK-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX BK-2 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
BK COB CONSTRUCTION (MONOLITHIC ADOBE)
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency or referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Cob construction has been used for thousands of years around the world, notably in England and Northern Europe, the Middle East, West Africa, China and the Southwestern United States. An estimated 20,000 cob homes are still inhabited in the English county of Devon alone, some dating from the 15th century. The term “cob” derives from an Old English word for “lump,” since historical structures were often constructed one handful at a time.
SECTION BK101—GENERAL
BK101.1 Scope. This appendix provides prescriptive and performance-based requirements for the use of natural cob as a building material. Buildings using cob walls shall comply with this code except as otherwise stated in this appendix.
BK101.2 Intent. In addition to the intent described in Section R101.3, the purpose of this appendix is to establish minimum requirements for cob structures that provide flexibility in the application of certain provisions of the code, to permit the use of site-sourced and local materials, and to permit combinations of historical and modern techniques.
BK101.3 Tests and empirical evidence. Tests for an alternative material, design or method of construction shall be in accordance with Section R104.2.2.5, and the building official shall have the authority to consider evidence of a history of successful use in lieu of testing.
BK101.4 Cob wall systems. Cob wall systems include those shown in Figure BK101.4 and approved variations.
FIGURE BK101.4—TYPICAL COB WALL
CRC § 1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
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-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 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 belowChapter / Section R602.1.1 X R602.3.4.1 X R606.1.1 X R608.1 X R610.1 X R610.4_Note_ X X The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: †
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 6-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
6-2 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
6 WALL CONSTRUCTION
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 6 contains prescriptive provisions for the design and construction of walls. The wall construction covered in Chapter 6 consists of five different types: wood framed, cold-formed steel framed, masonry, concrete and structural insulated panel (SIP). The primary concern of this chapter is the structural integrity of wall construction and transfer of all imposed loads to the supporting structure.
SECTION R601—GENERAL
R601.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design and construction of walls and partitions for buildings.
CRC § 4-6 Medium relevance — show source text
R403 Footings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
R404 Foundation and Retaining Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
R405 Foundation Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-42
R406 Foundation Waterproofing and Dampproofing . . . 4-43
R407 Columns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-44
R408 Under-Floor Space . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-44
CHAPTER 5 FLOORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
R501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
R502 Wood Floor Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
R503 Floor Sheathing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12
R504 Pressure Preservative-Treated Wood
Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R505 Cold-Formed Steel Floor Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-26
R507 Exterior Decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-26
CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R602 Wood Wall Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R603 Cold-Formed Steel Wall Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
R604 Wood Structural Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R605 Particleboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R606 General Masonry Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
Frequently asked questions
Who enforces whether Chapter 6 applies to my project?
The enforcing authority (local building official) enforces applicability; the CRC’s scope for one‑ and two‑family dwellings is set in § R101.2. If your project falls outside that scope, the CBC or another code may control.
If Chapter 6 controls walls, do I still need to check wind and seismic loads?
Yes. § R601.2 requires walls to accommodate loads per Section R301 (which includes wind and seismic design criteria). Use R301 for load values and then apply the material‑specific Chapter 6 rules.
Can I leave a compressible underlayment under a load‑bearing wall?
Not if it meets the numeric compressibility and thickness limits in § R601.2.1 (compresses > 1/32 in under the test load and thickness > 1/8 in): such material shall not extend beneath walls fastened to the floor.
Where do I find the exact braced‑wall lengths and fastener schedules?
Those prescriptive values live in the R602 tables and figures (R602.10 series and associated tables). Consult those tables for the exact braced‑wall lengths, methods, and fastener spacings.
My wall is concrete — does § R601.1 still control?
Yes: § R601.1 makes Chapter 6 controlling for wall construction; for concrete walls you then apply the concrete‑specific provisions in Chapter 6 (for example § R608 for exterior concrete wall construction).
More in California Residential Code
Ask about the CRC
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Residential Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial