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REVISION RECORD
FOR THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

SUPPLEMENT

July 1, 2018

2016 Title 24, Part 2.5, California Residential Code

General Information:

1. The date of this supplement is for identification purposes only. See the History Note Appendix at the end of the code.

2. This supplement is issued by the California Building Standards Commission in order to provide new and/or replacement
pages containing recently adopted provisions for California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2.5, of the 2016 California
Residential Code. Instructions are provided below.

3. Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 establishes that only building standards in effect at the time of the application for a
building permit may be applied to the project plans and construction. This rule applies to both adoptions of building standards
for Title 24 by the California Building Standards Commission and local adoptions and ordinances imposing building
standards. The new building standards provided with the enclosed blue supplement pages must not be enforced before the
effective date.

4. Not all code text on the enclosed blue supplement pages is a new building standard. New, amended, or repealed building
standards are identified by margin symbols. An explanation of margin symbols is provided in the code before the table of
contents.

5. You may wish to retain the superseded material with this revision record so that the prior wording of any section can be easily
ascertained.

Title 24, Part 2.5

Remove Existing Pages

xxi and xxii
3 through 6
25 and 26
29 and 30
33 and 34
43 and 44
75 through 78
85 through 90
111 through 114
117 through 126
515 and 516
525 through 528
661 and 662
667 and 668

Insert Blue-Colored Pages

xxi and xxii
3 through 6
25 and 26
29 and 30
33 and 34
43 and 44
75 through 78
85 through 90
111 through 114
117 through 126
515 and 516
525 through 528
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667 and 668

Item No. 5525S163

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I—Administrative . 3

CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND

APPLICATION.3

DIVISION I—CALIFORNIA

ADMINISTRATION.3

Section

1.1 General.3

1.2 Reserved.6

1.3 Reserved.6

1.4 Reserved.6

1.5 Reserved.6

1.6 Reserved.6

1.7 Reserved.6

1.8 Department of Housing and Community

Development (HCD).6

1.8.2 Authority and Abbreviations.6

1.8.3 Local Enforcing Agency.7

1.8.4 Permits, Fees, Applications and Inspections.8

1.8.5 Right of Entry for Enforcement.8

1.8.6 Local Modification by Ordinance or Regulation... 9

1.8.7 Alternate Materials, Designs, Tests and

Methods of Construction.9

1.8.8 Appeals Board.10

1.8.9 Unsafe Buildings or Structures.10

1.8.10 Other Building Regulations.11

1.9 Reserved.11

1.10 Reserved.11

1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal.11

1.12 Reserved.15

1.13 Reserved.15

1.14 Reserved.15

DIVISION II—ADMINISTRATION.16

Section

R101 General.16

R102 Applicability.16

R103 Department of Building Safety.17

R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official.17

R105 Permits.18

R106 Construction Documents.20

R107 Temporary Structures and Uses.21

R108 Fees.21

R109 Inspections.22

R110 Certificate of Occupancy.23

Rill Service Utilities.23

R112 Board of Appeals.24

R113 Violations.24

R114 Stop Work Order.24

Part II—Definitions . 29

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS.29

Section

R201 General.29

R202 Definitions.29

Part III—Building Planning and Construction . 45

CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING. 45

Section

R300 Site Drainage.45

R301 Design Criteria.45

R302 Fire-resistant Construction.69

R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating.75

R304 Minimum Room Areas.76

R305 Ceiling Height.77

R306 Sanitation.77

R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces.77

R308 Glazing.77

R309 Garages and Carports.80

R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings.81

R311 Means of Egress.82

R312 Guards and Window Fall Protection.85

R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems.86

R314 Smoke Alarms.98

R315 Carbon Monoxide Alarms.102

R316 Foam Plastic.104

R317 Protection of Wood and Wood-based

Products against Decay.105

R318 Protection against Subterranean Termites.107

R319 Site Address.108

R320 Accessibility.108

R321 Elevators and Platform Lifts.108

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

R322 Flood-resistant Construction.108

R323 Storm Shelters.Ill

R324 Solar Energy Systems.Ill

R325 Mezzanines.112

R326 Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs.112

|| R327 Stationary Storage Battery Systems.113

R334 Construction Waste Reduction,

Disposal and Recycling.113

R335 Special Provisions for Licensed

24-hour Care Facilities in a Group R-3.1.... 113

R336 Large Family Day-care Homes.116

R337 Materials and Construction Methods

for Exterior Wildfire Exposure.117

R337.1 Scope, Purpose and Application.117

R337.2 Definitions.118

R337.3 Standards of Quality.119

R337.4 Ignition-Resistant Construction.120

| | R337.5 Roofing.121

R337.6 Vents.121

R337.7 Exterior Covering.122

R337.8 Exterior Windows, Skylights and Doors.124

R337.9 Decking.125

R337.10 Accessory Structures.125

R338 Electric Vehicle.126

R340 Pollutant Control.126

CHAPTER 4 FOUNDATIONS.127

Section

R401 General.127

R402 Materials.128

R403 Footings.129

R404 Foundation and Retaining Walls.150

R405 Foundation Drainage.168

R406 Foundation Waterproofing and

Dampproofing.169

R407 Columns.170

R408 Under-floor Space.170

CHAPTER 5 FLOORS.173

Section

R501 General.173

R502 Wood Floor Framing.173

R503 Floor Sheathing.182

R504 Pressure Preservative-treated Wood

Floors (On Ground).184

R505 Cold-formed Steel Floor Framing.184

R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground).195

R507 Exterior Decks.197

CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION.207

Section

R601 General.207

R602 Wood Wall Framing.207

R603 Cold-formed Steel Wall Framing.257

R604 Wood Structural Panels.293

R605 Particleboard.293

R606 General Masonry Construction.298

R607 Glass Unit Masonry.310

R608 Exterior Concrete Wall Construction.312

R609 Exterior Windows and Doors.382

R610 Structural Insulated Panel Wall

Construction.385

CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING.395

Section

R701 General.395

R702 Interior Covering.395

R703 Exterior Covering.399

CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING

CONSTRUCTION.417

Section

R801 General.417

R802 Wood Roof Framing.417

R803 Roof Sheathing.443

R804 Cold-formed Steel Roof Framing.446

R805 Ceiling Finishes.460

R806 Roof Ventilation.460

R807 Attic Access.464

CHAPTER 9 ROOF ASSEMBLIES.465

Section

R901 General.465

R902 Fire Classification.465

R903 Weather Protection.466

R904 Materials.466

R905 Requirements for Roof Coverings.467

R906 Roof Insulation.477

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2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

Part I—Administrative

CHAPTER 1

SCOPE AND APPLICA TION
DIVISION I

CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 1.1
GENERAL

1.1.1 Title. These regulations shall be known as the Califor¬
nia Residential Code, may be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as “this code. ” The California Residential
Code is Part 2.5 of thirteen parts of the official compilation
and publication of the adoption, amendment and repeal of
building regulations to the California Code of Regulations,
Title 24, also referred to as the California Building Standards
Code. This part incorporates by adoption the 2015 Interna¬
tional Residential Code of the International Code Council
with necessary California amendments.

1.1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the
minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety
and general welfare through structural strength, means of
egress facilities, stability, access to persons with disabilities,
sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, and energy
conservation; safety to life and property from fire and other
hazards attributed to the built environment; and to provide
safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during
emergency operations.

1.1.3 Scope. The provisions of this code shall apply to the
construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replace¬
ment, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, main¬
tenance, removal and demolition of every detached one- and

> two-family dwelling and townhouse not more than three sto¬
ries above grade plane in height with a separate means of
egress and structures accessory thereto throughout the State
of California.

Exceptions:

1. Live/work units complying with the requirements of
Section 419 of the California Building Code shall be
permitted to be built as one- and two-family dwell¬
ings or townhouses. Fire suppression required by
Section 419.5 of the California Building Code when
constructed under the California Residential Code
for one- and two-family dwellings shall conform to
Section 903.3.1.3 of the California Building Code.

2. Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer
guestrooms shall be permitted to be constructed in
accordance with the California Residential Code for
one- and two-family dwellings when equipped with a
fire sprinkler system in accordance with Section
R313.

1.1.3.1 Classification. Structures or portions of structures
shall be classified with respect to occupancy in one or
more of the groups listed below. A room or space that is
intended to be occupied at different times for different pur¬
poses shall comply with all of the requirements that are
applicable to each of the purposes for which the room or
space will be occupied. Structures with multiple occupan¬
cies or uses shall comply with Section 508 of the Califor¬
nia Building Code. Where a structure is proposed for a
purpose that is not specifically provided for in this code,
such structure shall be classified in the group that the
occupancy most nearly resembles, according to the fire
safety and relative hazard involved in accordance with
this code or the California Building Code.

1.1.3.1.1 Residential Group R. Residential Group R
includes, among others, the use of a building or struc¬
ture, or a portion thereof, for sleeping purposes when
not classified as an Institutional Group I. Residential
occupancies shall include the following:

R-3 Residential occupancies where the occupants
are primarily permanent in nature and not classified
as Group R-l, R-2, R-2.1, R-3.1, R-4 or I, including:

Buildings that do not contain more than two
dwelling units.

Townhouses not more than three stories above
grade in height with a separate means of
egress.

Adult facilities that provide accommodations for
six or fewer persons of any age for less than
24-hours. Licensing categories that may use
this classification include, but are not limited
to:

Adult Day Programs.

Child care facilities that provide accommoda¬
tions for six or fewer persons of any age for
less than 24-hours. Licensing categories that
may use this classification include, but are not
limited to:

Day-care Center for Mildly III Children, Infant
Care Center and School Age Child Day-care
Center.

Family Day-care Homes that provide accommo¬
dations for 14 or fewer children, in the provider’s

own home for less than 24-hours.

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Congregate living facilities or congregate resi¬
dences with 16 or fewer persons.

R-3.1 This occupancy group may include facilities
licensed by a governmental agency for a residentially
based 24-hour care facility providing accommodations
for six or fewer clients of any age. Clients may be clas¬
sified as ambulatory, nonambulatory or bedridden. A
Group R-3.1 occupancy shall meet the requirements
for construction as defined for Group R-3, except as
otherwise provided for in Section R335 Special Provi¬
sions For Licensed 24-Hour Care Facilities in a Group
R-3.1 Occupancy. This group may include:

Adult Residential Facilities Congregate Living
Health Facilities
Foster Family Homes
Group Homes

Intermediate Care Facilities for the develop-
mentally disabled habilitative
Intermediate Care Facilities for the developmen-
tally disabled nursing

Nurseries for the full-time care of children under
the age of six, but not including “infants” as
defined in Section 202
Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly
Small Family Homes and Residential Care Facil¬
ities for the chronically ill
Exception: Foster Family Homes or Group
Homes licensed by the Department of Social
Services which provide nonmedical board,
room and care for six or fewer ambulatory
children or children two years of age or
younger, and which do not have any nonam¬
bulatory clients shall not be subject to regula¬
tions found in Section R335.

Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section
13143 with respect to these exempted facilities, no
city, county or public district shall adopt or enforce
any requirement for the prevention of fire or for the
protection of life and property against fire and panic
unless the requirement would be applicable to a
structure regardless of the special occupancy. Noth¬
ing shall restrict the application of state or local
housing standards to such facilities if the standards
are applicable to residential occupancies and are
not based on the use of the structure as a facility for
ambulatory children. For the purpose of this excep¬
tion, ambulatory children does not include relatives
of the licensee or the licensee’s spouse.

Large Family Day-Care Homes. See Section R336.
1.1.3.1.2 Utility and Miscellaneous Group U. Build¬
ings and structures of an accessory character and mis¬
cellaneous structures not classified in any specific
occupancy shall be constructed, equipped and main¬
tained to conform to the requirements of this code com¬
mensurate with the fire and life hazard incidental to
their occupancy. Group U shall include, but not be lim¬
ited to, the following:

Agricultural buildings

Aircraft hangars, accessory to a one- or two-family
residence (see Section 412.5 of the California
Building Code)

Bams

Carports

Fences more than 7 feet (2134 mm) high

Grain silos, accessory to a residential occupancy

Greenhouses

Livestock shelters

Private garages

Retaining walls

Sheds

Stables

Tanks

Towers

1.1.3.2 Regulated buildings, structures and applications.

The model code, state amendments to the model code, and/
or state amendments where there are no relevant model
code provisions shall apply to detached one- and two-fam¬
ily dwellings, townhouses, and structures accessory <
thereto. State agencies with regulatory authority as speci¬
fied in Sections 1.2 through 1.14, except where modified
by local ordinance pursuant to Section 1.1.8. When
adopted by a state agency, the provisions of this code shall
be enforced by the appropriate enforcing agency, but only
to the extent of authority granted to such agency by the
state legislature.

Note: See Preface to distinguish the model code provi¬
sions from the California provisions.

1. One- and two-family dwellings, townhouses,
employee housing, factory-built housing and other
types of dwellings containing sleeping accommoda¬
tions with common toilets or cooking facilities. See
Section 1.8.2.1.1.

2. Permanent buildings and permanent accessory
buildings or structures constructed within mobile-
home parks and special occupancy parks regulated
by the Department of Housing and Community
Development. See Section 1.8.2.1.3.

3. Applications regulated by the Office of the State
Fire Marshal include, but are not limited to, the fol¬
lowing in accordance with Section 1.11:

3.1. Buildings or structures used or intended for use
as a/an:

1. Home for the elderly, children’s nursery,
children’s home or institution, school or
any similar occupancy of any capacity

2. Small family day-care homes, large family
day-care homes, residential facilities and
residential facilities for the elderly, resi¬
dential care facilities

3. State institutions or other state-owned or
state-occupied buildings

4. Residential structures

5. Tents, awnings or other fabric enclosures
used in connection with any occupancy

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6. Fire alarm devices, equipment and systems
in connection with any occupancy

7. Wildland-urban interface fire areas

1.1.4 Appendices. Provisions contained in the appendices of
this code shall not apply unless specifically adopted by a
state agency or adopted by a local enforcing agency in com¬
pliance with Health and Safety Code Section 18901 et seq. for
Building Standards Law, Health and Safety Code Section
17950 for State Housing Law and Health and Safety Code
Section 13869.7 for Fire Protection Districts. See Section
1.1.8 of this code.

1.1.5 Referenced codes. The codes, standards and publica¬
tions adopted and set forth in this code, including other
codes, standards and publications referred to therein are, by
title and date of publication, hereby adopted as standard ref¬
erence documents of this code. When this code does not spe¬
cifically cover any subject related to building design and
construction, recognized architectural or engineering prac¬
tices shall be employed. The National Fire Codes, standards
and the Fire Protection Handbook of the National Fire Pro¬
tection Association are permitted to be used as authoritative
guides in determining recognized fire prevention engineering
practices.

1.1.6 Nonbuilding standards, orders and regulations.

Requirements contained in the International Residential
Code, or in any other referenced standard, code or document,
which are not building standards as defined in Health and
Safety Code Section 18909, shall not be construed as part of
the provisions of this code. For nonbuilding standards,
orders and regulations, see other titles of the California Code
of Regulations.

1.1.7 Order of precedence and use.

1.1.7.1 Differences. In the event of any differences
between these building standards and the standard refer¬
ence documents, the text of these building standards shall
govern.

1.1.7.2 Specific provisions. Where a specific provision
varies from a general provision, the specific provision
shall apply.

1.1.7.3 Conflicts. When the requirements of this code con¬
flict with the requirements of any other part of the Califor¬
nia Building Standards Code, Title 24, the most restrictive
requirements shall prevail.

1.1.7.3.1 Detached one- and two-family dwellings.

Detached one- and two-family dwellings and town-
houses not more than three stories above grade plane
in height with a separate means of egress and their
accessory structures may be designed and constructed
in accordance with this code or the California Build¬
ing Code, but not both, unless the proposed struc-
ture(s) or elements) exceed the design limitations
established in this code and the code user is specifi¬
cally directed by this code to use the California Build¬
ing Code.

1.1.8 City, county, or city and county amendments, addi¬
tions or deletions. The provisions of this code do not limit
the authority of a city, county, or city and county govern¬
ments to establish more restrictive and reasonably neces¬
sary differences to the provisions contained in this code
pursuant to complying with Section 1.1.8.1. The effective
date of amendments, additions or deletions to this code by a
city, county, or city and county filed pursuant to Section

1.1.8.1 shall be the date filed. However, in no case shall the
amendments, additions or deletions to this code be effective
any sooner than the effective date of this code.

Local modifications shall comply with Health and Safety
Code Section 18941.5 for Building Standards Law, Health
and Safety Code Section 17958 for State Housing Law or
Health and Safety Code Section 13869.7for Fire Protection
Districts.

1.1.8.1 Findings and filings.

1. The city, county, or city and county shall make
express findings for each amendment, addition or
deletion based upon climatic, topographical or geo¬
logical conditions.

Exception: Hazardous building ordinances and
programs mitigating unreinforced masonry
buildings.

2. The city, county, or city and county shall file the
amendments, additions or deletions expressly
marked and identified as to the applicable findings.
Cities, counties, cities and counties, and fire
departments shall file the amendments, additions
or deletions, and the findings with the California
Building Standards Commission at 2525 Natomas
Park Drive, Suite 130, Sacramento, CA 95833.

3. Findings prepared by fire protection districts shall
be ratified by the local city, county, or city and
county and filed with the California Department of
Housing and Community Development, Division of
Codes and Standards, P.O. Box 1407, Sacramento,
CA 95812-1407 or 2020 W. El Camino Avenue,
Suite 250, Sacramento, CA 95833-1829.

1.1.9 Effective date of this code. Only those standards
approved by the California Building Standards Commission
that are effective at the time an application for building per¬
mit is submitted shall apply to the plans and specifications
for, and to the construction performed under, that permit. For
the effective dates of the provisions contained in this code,
see the History Note page of this code.

1.1.10 Availability of codes. At least one complete copy each
of Titles 8, 19, 20, 24 and 25 with all revisions shall be main¬
tained in the office of the building official responsible for the
administration and enforcement of this code. Each state
department concerned and each city, county, or city and
county shall have an up-to-date copy of the code available for
public inspection. See Health and Safety Code Section
18942(e) (1) and (2).

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DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

1.1.11 Format. This part fundamentally adopts the Interna¬
tional Residential Code by reference on a chapter-by-chapter
basis. When a specific chapter of the International Residen¬
tial Code is not printed in the code and is marked “Reserved”
such chapter of the International Residential Code is not
adopted as a portion of this code. When a specific chapter of
the International Residential Code is marked “Not adopted
by the State of California” but appears in the code, it may be
available for adoption by local ordinance.

Note: Matrix Adoption Tables at the front of each chapter
may aid the code user in determining which chapter or sec¬
tions within a chapter are applicable to buildings under the
authority of a specific state agency, but they are not to be
considered regulatory.

1.1.12 Validity. If any chapter, section, subsection, sentence,
clause or phrase of this code is for any reason held to be
unconstitutional, contrary to statute, exceeding the authority
of the state as stipulated by statutes or otherwise inoperative,
such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining
portion of this code.

SECTION 1.2
Reserved

SECTION 1.3
Reserved

SECTION 1.4
Reserved

SECTION 1.5
Reserved

SECTION 1.6
Reserved

SECTION 1.7
Reserved

SECTION 1.8

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING
AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (HCD)

1.8.1 Purpose. The purpose of this code is to establish the
minimum requirements necessary to protect the health, safety
and general welfare of the occupants and the public by gov¬
erning accessibility, erection, construction, reconstruction,
enlargement, conversion, alteration, repair, moving,
removal, demolition, occupancy, use, height, court, area,
sanitation, ventilation, maintenance and safety to life and
property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built
environment.

SECTION 1.8.2

AUTHORITY AND ABBREVIATIONS

1.8.2.1 General. The Department of Housing and Community
Development is authorized by law to promulgate and adopt
building standards and regulations for several types of build¬
ing applications. The applications under the authority of the
Department of Housing and Community Development are
listed in Sections 1.8.2.1.1 through 1.8.2.1.3.

1.8.2.1.1 Housing construction.

Application — Hotels, motels, lodging houses, apartments,
dwellings, dormitories, condominiums, shelters for home¬
less persons, congregate residences, employee housing,
factory-built housing and other types of dwellings contain¬
ing sleeping accommodations with or without common toi¬
let or cooking facilities including accessory buildings,
facilities and uses thereto. Sections of this code which per¬
tain to applications listed in this section are identified
using the abbreviation “HCD 1. ”

Enforcing agency—Local building department or the
Department of Housing and Community Development.
Authority cited—Health and Safety Code Sections 17040,
17050, 17920.9, 17921, 17921.3, 17921.6, 17921.10,
17922,17922.6, 17922.12,17927,17928,17959.6,18300,
18552, 18554, 18620, 18630, 18640, 18670, 18690,
18691, 18865, 18871.3, 18871.4, 18873, 18873.1,
18873.2, 18873.3, 18873.4, 18873.5, 18938.3, 18944.11
and 19990; and Government Code Section 12955.1.
Reference—Health and Safety Code Sections 17000
through 17062.5, 17910 through 17995.5, 18200 through
18700, 18860 through 18874, 19960 through 19997; and
Government Code Sections 12955.1 and 12955.1.1.

1.8.2.1.2 Housing accessibility.

Application—Covered multifamily dwellings as defined in
Chapter 2 of the California Building Code including, but
not limited to, lodging houses, dormitories, timeshares,
condominiums, shelters for homeless persons, congregate
residences, apartments, dwellings, employee housing, fac¬
tory-built housing and other types of dwellings containing
sleeping accommodations with or without common toilet
or cooking facilities.

Disabled access regulations promulgated under HCD
authority are located in Chapter 11A of the California
Building Code and are identified by the abbreviation
“HCD 1-AC. ” The application of such provisions shall be
in conjunction with other requirements of the Building
Standards Code and apply only to newly constructed cov¬
ered multifamily dwellings as defined in Chapter 2 of the
California Building Code. “HCD 1-AC” applications
include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. All newly constructed covered multifamily dwellings
as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building
Code.

2. New common use areas as defined in Chapter 2 of
the California Building Code serving existing cov¬
ered multifamily dwellings.

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CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE - MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 - DEFINITIONS

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

Adopting agency

BSC-

HCD

DSA

OSHPD

AGR

DWR

CEC

SLC

BSC

SFM

1/AC

ss/

BSCC

DPH

Adopt entire chapter

Adopt entire chapter as amended
(amended sections listed below)

Adopt only those sections that are
listed below

Chapter / Section

R201.1

R201.2

R201.3

R201.4

ACCESSORY STRUCTURE

ADDITION

AGED HOME OR INSTITUTION

ALTERATION

APPROVED

APPROVED AGENCY

APPROVED LISTING AGENCY

APPROVED TESTING AGENCY

ATTIC

ATTIC, HABITABLE

BASEMENT

BEDRIDDEN PERSON

BUILDING

BUILDING OFFICIAL

BUILT-UP ROOF COVERING

CARE AND SUPERVISION

CATASTROPHICALLY INJURED

CEILING HEIGHT

CHILD-CARE CENTER

CHILD OR CHILDREN

CHRONICALLY ILL

CLIMATE ZONES

CLOSET

COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL

CONGREGATE LIVING
HEALTH-FACILITY (CLHF)

CONGREGATE RESIDENCE

CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

DAYCARE

DAY-CARE HOME, FAMILY

DAY-CARE HOME,

LARGE FAMILY

DAY-CARE HOME,

SMALL FAMILY

DEPARTMENT

DESIGN PROFESSIONAL

(continued)

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CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE - MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 - DEFINITIONS—continued

Adopting agency

BSC-

HCD

DSA

OSHPD

AGR

DWR

CEC

SLC

BSC

SFM

1/AC

SS/

BSCC

DPH

Adopt entire chapter

Adopt entire chapter as amended
(amended sections listed below)

Adopt only those sections that are
listed below

Chapter / Section

DRAFT STOP

DUCT SYSTEM

~>r

DWELLING

DWELLING UNIT

EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND
RESCUE OPENING

ENFORCEMENT

~x"

ENFORCEMENTAGENCY

“x"

ENFORCING AGENCY

~>r

“x"

EXTERIOR WALL

~>r

FAMILY

“x"

FENESTRATION

“x"

FIREBLOCKING

~>r

FIRE-RETARDANT-TREATED

WOOD

FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE

FLAME SPREAD

FLAME SPREAD INDEX

FULL-TIME CARE

GRADE

GRADE FLOOR OPENING

GRADE PLANE

GUARD OR GUARDRAIL

—

HABITABLE SPACE

HANDRAIL

HAZARDOUS LOCATION

HEIGHT, BUILDING

HEIGHT, STORY

IGNITION SOURCE

INFANT

INSULATING SHEATHING

—

LABEL

LABELED

~xT

LIMITED-DENSITY OWNER-
BUILT RURAL DWELLINGS

LISTED

LISTING AGENCY

“x”

LIVING SPACE

LODGING HOUSE

LOT

LOT LINE

MARK

(continued)

supplement-blue 2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

Part II—Definitions

CHAPTER 2

DEFINITIONS

Code change proposals to definitions in this chapter preceded by a bracketed letter are considered
by the IRC-Building Code Development Committee [RB] or the IECC-Residential Code Development Committee [RE]
during the Group B (2016) Code Development cycle. See page xfor explanation.

SECTION R201
GENERAL

R201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the follow¬
ing 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 meanings ascribed
to them as 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 methods 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 pro¬
viding ordinarily accepted meanings.

SECTION R202
DEFINITIONS

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

[RB] ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area or
height of a building or structure.

[RB] ADHERED STONE OR MASONRY VENEER.

Stone or masonry veneer secured and supported through the
adhesion of an approved bonding material applied to an
approved backing.

AGED HOME OR INSTITUTION. A facility used for the
housing of persons 65 years of age or older in need of care
and supervision. (See definition of “care and supervision. ”)

[RB] AIR-IMPERMEABLE INSULATION. An insulation
having an air permanence equal to or less than 0.02 L/s-m 2 at

75 Pa pressure differential as tested in accordance with
ASTM E2178 or E283.

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

[RB] ALTERNATING TREAD DEVICE. A device that
has a series of steps between 50 and 70 degrees (0.87 and
1.22 rad) from horizontal, usually attached to a center support
rail in an alternating manner so that the user does not have
both feet on the same level at the same time.

[RB] ANCHORED STONE OR MASONRY VENEER.
Stone or masonry veneer secured with approved mechanical
fasteners to an approved backing.

ANCHORS. See “Supports.”

[RB] APPROVED. Acceptable to the building official.
APPROVED. (HCD 1) Meeting the approval of the enforc¬
ing 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 scien¬
tific organizations or agencies.

Notes:

1. See Health and Safety Code Section 17920 for
“Approved” as applied to residential construction
and buildings or structures accessory thereto, as
referenced in Section 1.8.2.1.1.

2. See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.1 for
“Approved” as applied to the use of hotplates in
residential construction referenced in Section
1.82.1.1.

3. See Health and Safely Code Section 19966 for
“Approved” as applied to factory-built housing as
referenced in Section 1.8.32.5.

4. See Health and Safety Code Section 18201 for
“Approved” as applied to mobilehome parks as ref¬
erenced in Section 1.8.322.

5. See Health and Safety Code Section 18862.1 for
“Approved” as applied to special occupancy parks
as referenced in Section 1.8.32.3.

[RB] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recog¬
nized agency regularly engaged in conducting tests or fur¬
nishing inspection services, where such agency has been

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

DEFINITIONS

approved by the building official. (HCD 1) “Approved
agency” shall mean “Listing agency” and “Testing agency. ”
APPROVED LISTING AGENCY. Any agency approved by
the enforcing agency, unless otherwise provided by statute,
which is in the business of listing and labeling and which makes
available at least an annual published report of such listings in
which specific information is included that the product has
been tested to recognized standards and found to comply.
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY. Any agency which is
determined by the enforcing agency, except as otherwise pro¬
vided by statute, to have adequate personnel and expertise to
carry out the testing of systems, materials, and construction
fixtures or appliances.

[RB] ASPECT RATIO. The ratio of longest to shortest per¬
pendicular dimensions, or for wall sections, the ratio of
height to length.

[RB] ATTIC. The unfinished space between the ceiling
assembly and the roof assembly.

[RB] ATTIC, HABITABLE. A finished or unfinished area,
not considered a story, complying with all of the following
requirements:

1. The occupiable floor area is not less than 70 square feet
(6.5 m 2 ), in accordance with Section R304.

2. The occupiable floor area has a ceiling height in accor¬
dance with Section R305.

3. The occupiable space is enclosed by the roof assembly
above, knee walls (if applicable) on the sides and the
floor-ceiling assembly below.

[RB] BASEMENT. A story that is not a story above grade
plane, (see “Story above grade plane”).

[RB] BASEMENT WALL. The opaque portion of a wall
that encloses one side of a basement and has an average
below grade wall area that is 50 percent or more of the total
opaque and nonopaque area of that enclosing side.

[RB] BASIC WIND SPEED. Three-second gust speed at 33
feet (10 058 mm) above the ground in Exposure C (see Sec¬
tion R301.2.1) as given in Figure R301.2(4)A.

BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY STORAGE. A
rechargeable energy storage system consisting of electro¬
chemical storage batteries, battery chargers, controls, and
associated electrical equipment designed to provide electri¬
cal power to a building. The system is typically used to pro¬
vide standby or emergency power, an uninterruptable power
supply, load shedding, load sharing or similar capabilities.
BEDRIDDEN PERSON. A person, requiring assistance in
turning and repositioning in bed, or being unable to inde¬
pendently transfer to and from bed, except in facilities with
appropriate and sufficient care staff, mechanical devices if nec¬
essary, and safety precautions as determined in Title 22 regula¬
tions, by the Director of Social Services or his or her designated
representative. Persons who are unable to independently trans¬
fer to and from bed, but who do not need assistance to turn or
reposition in bed, shall be considered nonambulatory.

The Director of Social Services or his or her designated
representative shall make the determination of the bedridden
status of persons with developmental disabilities, in consulta¬

tion with the Director of Developmental Services or his or
her designated representative.

The Director of Social Services or his or her designated
representative shall make the determination of the bedridden
status of all other persons with disabilities who are not devel-
opmentally disabled.

[RB] BOND BEAM. A horizontal grouted element within
masonry in which reinforcement is embedded.

[RB] BRACED WALL LINE. A straight line through the
building plan that represents the location of the lateral resis¬
tance provided by the wall bracing.

[RB] BRACED WALL LINE, CONTINUOUSLY
SHEATHED. A braced wall line with structural sheathing
applied to all sheathable surfaces including the areas above
and below openings.

[RB] BRACED WALL PANEL. A full-height section of
wall constructed to resist in-plane shear loads through inter¬
action of framing members, sheathing material and anchors.
The panel’s length meets the requirements of its particular
bracing method, and contributes toward the total amount of
bracing required along its braced wall line in accordance with
Section R602.10.1.

[RB] BUILDING. Building shall mean any one- and two-
family dwelling or portion thereof, including townhouses,
that is used, or designed or intended to be used for human
habitation, for living, sleeping, cooking or eating purposes, or
any combination thereof, and shall include accessory struc¬
tures thereto.

Exceptions: For applications listed in Section 1.8.2 regu¬
lated by the Department of Housing and Community
Development, “Building” shall not include the following:

1. Any mobilehome as defined in Health and Safety
Code Section 18008.

2. Any manufactured home as defined in Health and
Safety Code Section 18007.

3. Any commercial modular as defined in Health and
Safety Code Section 18001.8 or any special purpose
commercial modular as defined in Section 18012.5.

4. Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and
Safety Code Section 18010.

5. Any multifamily manufactured home as defined in
Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7.

For additional information, see Health and Safety
Code Section 18908.

Note: Building shall have the same meaning as defined in
Health and Safety Code Sections 17920 and 18908for the
applications specified in Section 1.11.

[RB] BUILDING, EXISTING. Existing building is a build¬
ing erected prior to the adoption of this code, or one for which
a legal building permit has been issued.

[RB] BUILDING-INTEGRATED PHOTOVOLTAIC
PRODUCT. A building product that incorporates photovoltaic
modules and functions as a component of the building envelope.
[RB] BUILDING LINE. The line established by law,
beyond which a building shall not extend, except as specifi¬
cally provided by law.

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

DEFINITIONS

destroying the glazing material; and with a surface, or assem¬
bly into which it is incorporated, that is divided into segments.
DEPARTMENT. The Department of Housing and Commu¬
nity Development.

DESIGN PROFESSIONAL. See “Registered design profes¬
sional.”

DIAMETER. Unless specifically stated, the term “diameter”
is the nominal diameter as designated by the approved mate¬
rial standard.

[RB] DIAPHRAGM. A horizontal or nearly horizontal sys¬
tem acting to transmit lateral forces to the vertical resisting
elements. Where the term “diaphragm” is used, it includes
horizontal bracing systems.

[RB] DRAFT STOP. A material, device or construction
installed to restrict the movement of air within open spaces of
concealed areas of building components such as crawl spaces,
floor-ceiling assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies and attics.
DUCT SYSTEM. All ducts, duct fittings, plenums and fans
when assembled to form a continuous passageway for the dis¬
tribution of air.

[RB] DWELLING. Any building that contains one or two
dwelling units used, intended, or designed to be built, used,
rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied, or that are
occupied for living purposes.

[RB] DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete
independent living facilities for one or more persons, includ¬
ing permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking
> and sanitation.

[RB] EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPEN¬
ING. An operable exterior window, door or similar device
that provides for a means of escape and access for rescue in
the event of an emergency.

ENFORCEMENT. Notwithstanding other provisions of law,
the applicable section of the Health and Safety Code, Section
17920, is repeated here for clarity:

“Enforcement” means diligent effort to secure compliance,
including review of plans and permit applications, response
to complaints, citation of violations, and other legal pro¬
cess. Except as otherwise provided in this part, “enforce¬
ment” may, but need not, include inspections of existing
buildings on which no complaint or permit application has
been filed, and effort to secure compliance as to these exist¬
ing buildings.

ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. See “ENFORCING AGENCY.”
ENFORCING AGENCY. The designated department or
agency as specified by statute or regulation.

[RB] ENGINEERED WOOD RIM BOARD. A full-depth
structural composite lumber, wood structural panel, structural
glued laminated timber or prefabricated wood I-joist member
designed to transfer horizontal (shear) and vertical (compres¬
sion) loads, provide attachment for diaphragm sheathing, sid¬

ing and exterior deck ledgers and provide lateral support at
the ends of floor or roof joists or rafters.

[RB] ESCARPMENT. With respect to topographic wind
effects, a cliff or steep slope generally separating two levels
or gently sloping areas.

[RB] EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYS¬
TEMS (EIFS). EIFS are nonstructural, nonload-bearing
exterior wall cladding systems that consist of an insulation
board attached either adhesively or mechanically, or both, to
the substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat; and a tex¬
tured protective finish coat.

[RB] EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYS¬
TEMS (EIFS) WITH DRAINAGE. An EIFS that incorpo¬
rates a means of drainage applied over a water-resistive
barrier.

[RB] EXTERIOR WALL. An above-grade wall that defines
the exterior boundaries of a building. Includes between-floor
spandrels, peripheral edges of floors, roof and basement knee
walls, dormer walls, gable end walls, walls enclosing a man¬
sard roof and basement walls with an average below-grade
wall area that is less than 50 percent of the total opaque and
nonopaque area of that enclosing side.

[RB] EXTERIOR WALL COVERING. A material or
assembly of materials applied on the exterior side of exterior
walls for the purpose of providing a weather-resistive barrier,
insulation or for aesthetics, including but not limited to,
veneers, siding, exterior insulation and finish systems, archi¬
tectural trim and embellishments such as cornices, soffits,
and fascias.

[RB] FACING. The wood structural panel facings that form
the two outmost rigid layers of the structural insulated panel.
FACTORY-BUILT CHIMNEY. A listed and labeled chim¬
ney composed of factory-made components assembled in the
field in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and
the conditions of the listing.

FAMILY. (HCD 1) An individual or two or more persons
who are related by blood or marriage; or otherwise live
together in a dwelling unit.

FENESTRATION. See “Fenestration Product" as defined
in the California Energy Code.

FIBER-CEMENT (BACKERBOARD, SIDING, SOFFIT,
TRIM AND UNDERLAYMENT) PRODUCTS. Manufac¬
tured thin section composites of hydraulic cementitious
matrices and discrete nonasbestos fibers.

FIREBLOCKING. Building materials or materials
approved for use as fireblocking, installed to resist the free
passage of flame to other areas of the building through con¬
cealed spaces.

[RB] FIREPLACE. An assembly consisting of a hearth and
fire chamber of noncombustible material and provided with a
chimney, for use with solid fuels.

Factory-built fireplace. A listed and labeled fireplace and
chimney system composed of factory-made components,

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

DEFINITIONS

and assembled in the field in accordance with manufac¬
turer’s instructions and the conditions of the listing.
Masonry fireplace. A field-constructed fireplace com¬
posed of solid masonry units, bricks, stones or concrete.
FIREPLACE STOVE. A free-standing, chimney-con¬
nected solid-fuel-burning heater designed to be operated with
the fire chamber doors in either the open or closed position.
[RB] FIREPLACE THROAT. The opening between the top
of the firebox and the smoke chamber.

[RB] FIRE-RETARDANT-TREATED WOOD. Pressure-
treated lumber and plywood that exhibit reduced surface
burning characteristics and resist propagation of fire.

Other means during manufacture. A process where the
wood raw material is treated with a fire-retardant formula¬
tion while undergoing creation as a finished product.
Pressure process. A process for treating wood using an
initial vacuum followed by the introduction of pressure
above atmospheric.

[RB] FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE. The distance mea¬
sured from the building face to one of the following:

1. To the closest interior lot line.

2. To the centerline of a street, an alley or public way.

3. To an imaginary line between two buildings on the lot.
The distance shall be measured at a right angle from the

face of the wall.

FIXTURE. See “Plumbing fixture.”

[RB] FLAME SPREAD. The propagation of flame over a
surface.

[RB] FLAME SPREAD INDEX. A comparative measure,
expressed as a dimensionless number, derived from visual
measurements of the spread of flame versus time for a mate¬
rial tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

[RB] FLIGHT. A continuous run of rectangular treads or
winders or combination thereof from one landing to another.
FLUE. See “Vent.”

FLUE GASES. Products of combustion plus excess air in
appliance flues or heat exchangers.

[RB] FOAM BACKER BOARD. Foam plastic used in sid¬
ing applications where the foam plastic is a component of the
siding.

[RB] FOAM PLASTIC INSULATION. A plastic that is
intentionally expanded by the use of a foaming agent to pro¬
duce a reduced-density plastic containing voids consisting of
open or closed cells distributed throughout the plastic for
thermal insulating or acoustic purposes and that has a density
less than 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m 3 ) unless it is
used as interior trim.

[RB] FOAM PLASTIC INTERIOR TRIM. Exposed foam
plastic used as picture molds, chair rails, crown moldings,
baseboards, handrails, ceiling beams, door trim and window

trim and similar decorative or protective materials used in
fixed applications.

FULL-TIME CARE shall mean the establishment and rou¬
tine care of persons on an hourly, daily, weekly, monthly,
yearly or permanent basis, whether for 24-hours per day or
less, and where sleeping accommodations are provided.

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

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

[RB] GRADE FLOOR OPENING. A window or other
opening located such that the sill height of the opening is not
more than 44 inches (1118 mm) above or below the finished
ground level adjacent to the opening.

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

[RB] GROSS AREA OF EXTERIOR WALLS. The nor¬
mal projection of all exterior walls, including the area of all
windows and doors installed therein.

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

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

[RB] GYPSUM BOARD. The generic name for a family of
sheet products consisting of a noncombustible core primarily
of gypsum with paper surfacing. Gypsum wallboard, gypsum
sheathing, gypsum base for gypsum veneer plaster, exterior
gypsum soffit board, predecorated gypsum board and water-
resistant gypsum backing board complying with the standards
listed in Section R702.3 and Part IX of this code are types of
gypsum board.

[RB] GYPSUM PANEL PRODUCT. The general name for
a family of sheet products consisting essentially of gypsum.
[RB] HABITABLE SPACE. A space in a building for liv¬
ing, sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms,
closets, halls, storage or utility spaces and similar areas are
not considered habitable spaces.

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

HANGERS. See “Supports.”

supplement-blue 2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE - MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 3 - BUILDING PLANNING

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

Adopting agency

BSC

HCD

DSA

OSHPD

DPH

AGR

DWR

CEC

SLC

BSC

SFM

1/AC

SS/

BSCC

Adopt entire chapter

Adopt entire chapter as amended
(amended sections listed below)

Adopt only those sections that
are listed below

Chapter / Section

R300

“x"

R300.1

“x"

R300.2

“x"

R301.1

R301.1.1.1

“x"

R301.1.3.1

“x"

R301.1.3.2

“x"

R301.1.3.3

“x"

Table R301.2(1)

R301.2.2.1.1

R301.22 1 2

R301.2.2.3.7

R302.1 - R302.14

R302.1

“x"

R302.2

“x"

R302.5.1

R302.6

“x"

R302.14

R303.1

“x"

R303.3

“x"

R303.3.1

R303.4

R303.7- R308.1

R303.8.1.1

R303.9

R304.2

R307.1

Figure R307.1

R308.3 - R308.4

R309.4

~>r

R309.5

R309.6

R309.7

~>r

R309.8

~>r

R310- R310.4

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE - MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 3 - BUILDING PLANNING—continued

Adopting agency

ri'-r

HCD

DSA

OSHPD

AGR

DWR

CEC

SLC

BSC

SFM

1/AC

ss/

BSCC

DPH

Adopt Entire Chapter

Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)

Adopt only those sections that
are listed below

Chapter / Section

R310.2.2

R311 - R311.8.3.3

R312 - R312.2.2

R312.1.2

R313- R313.3.8.2

♦

R314- R314.8.3

R315.1.1

R315.2

R315.2.1

R315.2.2

R315.3

R315.4

R315.5

R315.6.2

R315.6.4

R315.7

R316

R319

R320.1

R320.1.1

R321

R321.3

R322.1.6

R322.1.7

R322.1.9

R324

R324.2

R324.3

R324.6.1

R324.7.2.5 Exception

R326

R334

R334.1

R335 - R335.9

R336 - R336.8

R337 - R337.10.4

R338 - R338.4

R340

R340.1

The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: t

The ♦ designation indicates that the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures subject to HCD 1.

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

BUILDING PLANNING

drainage, piping and similar openings or penetrations shall be
permitted.

Exceptions:

1. Floor assemblies located directly over a space pro¬
tected by an automatic sprinkler system in accor¬
dance with Section R313, NFPA 13D, or other
approved equivalent sprinkler system.

2. Floor assemblies located directly over a crawl space
not intended for storage or fuel-fired appliances.

3. Portions of floor assemblies shall be permitted to be
unprotected where complying with the following:

3.1. The aggregate area of the unprotected portions
does not exceed 80 square feet (7.4 m 2 ) per story.

3.2. Fireblocking in accordance with Section
R302.11.1 is installed along the perimeter of the
unprotected portion to separate the unprotected
portion from the remainder of the floor assem¬
bly.

4. Wood floor assemblies using dimension lumber or
structural composite lumber equal to or greater than
2-inch by 10-inch (50.8 mm by 254 mm) nominal
dimension, or other approved floor assemblies
demonstrating equivalent fire performance.

R302.14 Combustible insulation clearance. Combustible
insulation shall be separated not less than 3 inches (76 mm)
from recessed luminaires, fan motors and other heat-produc¬
ing devices.

Exception: Where heat-producing devices are listed for
lesser clearances, combustible insulation complying with
the listing requirements shall be separated in accordance
with the conditions stipulated in the listing.

Recessed luminaires installed in the building envelope
shall meet or exceed the requirements specified in the Cali¬
fornia Energy Code for recessed luminaires installed in insu¬
lated ceilings.

SECTION R303

LIGHT, VENTILATION AND HEATING

R303.1 Habitable rooms. Habitable rooms shall have an
aggregate glazing area of not less than 8 percent of the floor
area of such rooms. Natural ventilation shall be through win¬
dows, skylights, doors, louvers or other approved openings to
the outdoor air. Such openings shall be provided with ready
access or shall otherwise be readily controllable by the build¬
ing occupants. The openable area to the outdoors shall be not
less than 4 percent of the floor area being ventilated.

Exceptions:

1. The glazed areas need not be openable where the
opening is not required by Section R310 and a
whole-house mechanical ventilation system is
installed in accordance with the California Mechan¬
ical Code.

2. The glazed areas need not be installed in rooms
where Exception 1 is satisfied and artificial light is

provided that is capable of producing an average
illumination of 6 footcandles (65 lux) over the area
of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above
the floor level.

3. Use of sunroom and patio covers, as defined in Sec¬
tion R202, shall be permitted for natural ventilation
if in excess of 40 percent of the exterior sunroom
walls are open, or are enclosed only by insect
screening.

4. The windows, doors, louvers and other approved
closeable openings not required by Section R310
may open into a passive solar energy collector for
ventilation required by this section. The area of ven¬
tilation openings to the outside of the passive solar
energy collector shall be increased to compensate
for the openings required by the interior space.

5. Glazed openings may open into a passive solar
energy collector provided the area of exterior
glazed opening(s) into the passive solar energy col¬
lector is increased to compensate for the area
required by the interior space.

R303.2 Adjoining rooms. For the purpose of determining
light and ventilation requirements, any room shall be consid¬
ered to be a portion of an adjoining room where not less than
one-half of the area of the common wall is open and unob¬
structed and provides an opening of not less than one-tenth of
the floor area of the interior room and not less than 25 square
feet (2.3 m 2 ).

Exception: Openings required for light or ventilation shall
be permitted to open into a sunroom with thermal isolation
or a patio cover, provided that there is an openable area
between the adjoining room and the sunroom or patio
cover of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the
interior room and not less than 20 square feet (2 m 2 ). The
minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be based
upon the total floor area being ventilated.

R303.3 Bathrooms. Bathrooms, water closet compartments
and other similar rooms shall be provided with aggregate glaz¬
ing area in windows of not less than 3 square feet (0.3 m 2 ), one-
half of which must be openable.

Exception: The glazed areas shall not be required where
artificial light and a local exhaust system are provided.
The minimum local exhaust rates shall be 50 cubic feet per
minute (25 Us) for intermittent ventilation or 20 cubic feet
per minute (10 Us) for continuous ventilation in accor¬
dance with the California Mechanical Code, Chapter 4.
Exhaust air from the space shall be exhausted directly to
the outdoors.

R303.3.1 Bathroom exhaust fans. Each bathroom con¬
taining a bathtub, shower or tub/shower combination shall
be mechanically ventilated for purposes of humidity con¬
trol in accordance with the California Mechanical Code,
Chapter 4; and the California Green Building Standards
Code, Chapter 4, Division 4.5.

Note: Window operation is not a permissible method of

providing bathroom exhaust for humidity control.

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R303.4 Ventilation. Ventilation air rates shall be in compli¬
ance with the California Mechanical Code.

R303.5 Opening location. Outdoor intake and exhaust open¬
ings shall be located in accordance with Sections R303.5.1
and R303.5.2.

R303.5.1 Intake openings. Mechanical and gravity out¬
door air intake openings shall be located not less than 10
feet (3048 mm) from any hazardous or noxious contami¬
nant, such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets,
alleys, parking lots and loading docks.

For the purpose of this section, the exhaust from dwell¬
ing unit toilet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens shall not be
considered as hazardous or noxious.

Exceptions:

1. The 10-foot (3048 mm) separation is not required
where the intake opening is located 3 feet (914
mm) or greater below the contaminant source.

2. Vents and chimneys serving fuel-burning appli¬
ances shall be terminated in accordance with the
applicable provisions of Chapters 18 and 24.

3. Clothes dryer exhaust ducts shall be terminated in
accordance with Section M1502.3.

R303.5.2 Exhaust openings. Exhaust air shall not be
directed onto walkways.

R303.6 Outside opening protection. Air exhaust and intake
openings that terminate outdoors shall be protected with cor¬
rosion-resistant screens, louvers or grilles having an opening
size of not less than V 4 inch (6 mm) and a maximum opening
size of */ 2 inch (13 mm), in any dimension. Openings shall be
protected against local weather conditions. Outdoor air
exhaust and intake openings shall meet the provisions for
exterior wall opening protectives in accordance with this
code.

R303.7 Interior stairway illumination. Interior stairways
shall be provided with an artificial light source to illuminate
the landings and treads. The light source shall be capable of
illuminating treads and landings to levels of not less than 1
foot-candle (11 lux) as measured at the center of treads and
landings. There shall be a wall switch at each floor level to
control the light source where the stairway has six or more
risers.

Exception: A switch is not required where remote, central
or automatic control of lighting is provided.

R303.8 Exterior stairway illumination. Exterior stairways
shall be provided with an artificial light source located at the
top landing of the stairway. Exterior stairways providing

access to a basement from the outdoor grade level shall be
provided with an artificial light source located at the bottom
landing of the stairway.

R303.8.1 Sunroom additions. Required glazed openings
shall be permitted to open into sunroom additions or patio
covers that abut a street, yard or court if in excess of 40
percent of the exterior sunroom walls are open, or are
enclosed only by insect screening, and the ceiling height
of the sunroom is not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).

R303.8.1.1 Passive solar energy collectors. When a
passive solar energy collector is designed as a condi¬
tioned area it shall comply with the California Energy
Code. Nonconditioned passive solar energy collectors
are exempt from the California Energy Code.

R303.9 Required heating. Where the winter design tem¬
perature in Table R301.2(l) is below 60°F (16°C), every
dwelling unit shall be provided with heating facilities capa¬
ble of maintaining a room temperature of not less than 68°F
(20°C) at a point 3 feet (914 mm) above the floor and 2 feet
(610 mm) from exterior walls in habitable rooms at the
design temperature. The installation of one or more portable
space heaters shall not be used to achieve compliance with
this section.

Note: See Section R301.1.1.1 for limited-density owner-
built rural dwellings.

SECTION R304
MINIMUM ROOM AREAS

R304.1 Minimum area. Habitable rooms shall have a floor
area of not less than 70 square feet (6.5 m 2 ).

Exceptions: Kitchens.

R304.2 Minimum dimensions. Habitable rooms shall be not
less than 7 feet (2134 mm) in any horizontal dimension.
Exceptions:

1. Kitchens.

2. Limited-density owner-built rural dwellings. See
Section R301.1.1.1.

R304.3 Height effect on room area. Portions of a room with
a sloping ceiling measuring less than 5 feet (1524 mm) or a
furred ceiling measuring less than 7 feet (2134 mm) from the
finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered
as contributing to the minimum required habitable area for
that room.

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SECTION R305
CEILING HEIGHT

R305.1 Minimum height. Habitable space, hallways and
portions of basements containing these spaces shall have a
ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm). Bathrooms,
toilet rooms and laundry rooms shall have a ceiling height of
not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).

Exceptions:

1. For rooms with sloped ceilings, the required floor
area of the room shall have a ceiling height of not
less than 5 feet (1524 mm) and not less than 50 per¬
cent of the required floor area shall have a ceiling
height of not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).

2. The ceiling height above bathroom and toilet room
fixtures shall be such that the fixture is capable of
being used for its intended purpose. A shower or tub
equipped with a showerhead shall have a ceiling
height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm)
above an area of not less than 30 inches (762 mm)
by 30 inches (762 mm) at the showerhead.

3. Beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions in base¬
ments containing habitable space shall be permitted
to project to within 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) of the
finished floor.

R305.1.1 Basements. Portions of basements that do not
contain habitable space or hallways shall have a ceiling
height of not less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).

Exception: At beams, girders, ducts or other obstruc¬
tions, the ceiling height shall be not less than 6 feet 4
inches (1931 mm) from the finished floor.

SECTION R306
SANITATION

R306.1 Toilet facilities. Every dwelling unit shall be pro¬
vided with a water closet, lavatory, and a bathtub or shower.
R306.2 Kitchen. Each dwelling unit shall be provided with a
kitchen area and every kitchen area shall be provided with a
sink.

R306.3 Sewage disposal. Plumbing fixtures shall be con¬
nected to a sanitary sewer or to an approved private sewage
disposal system.

R306.4 Water supply to fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be
connected to an approved water supply. Kitchen sinks, lava¬
tories, bathtubs, showers, bidets, laundry tubs and washing
machine outlets shall be provided with hot and cold water.

SECTION R307

TOILET, BATH AND SHOWER SPACES

R307.1 Space required. Fixtures shall be spaced in accor¬
dance with the California Plumbing Code.

R307.2 Bathtub and shower spaces. Bathtub and shower
floors and walls above bathtubs with installed shower heads
and in shower compartments shall be finished with a nonab¬
sorbent surface. Such wall surfaces shall extend to a height of
not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the floor.

SECTION R308
GLAZING

R308.1 Identification. Except as indicated in Section
R308.1.1 each pane of glazing installed in hazardous loca¬
tions as defined in Section R308.4 shall be provided with a
manufacturer’s designation specifying who applied the desig¬
nation, designating the type of glass and the safety glazing
standard with which it complies, which is visible in the final
installation. The designation shall be acid etched, sand¬
blasted, ceramic-fired, laser etched, embossed, or be of a type
that once applied cannot be removed without being
destroyed. A label shall be permitted in lieu of the manufac¬
turer’s designation.

Exceptions:

1. For other than tempered glass, manufacturer’s desig¬
nations are not required provided that the building
official approves the use of a certificate, affidavit or
other evidence confirming compliance with this
code.

2. Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be identi¬
fied by the manufacturer with a removable paper
designation.

R308.1.1 Identification of multiple assemblies. Multi¬
pane assemblies having individual panes not exceeding 1
square foot (0.09 m 2 ) in exposed area shall have not less
than one pane in the assembly identified in accordance
with Section R308.1. Other panes in the assembly shall be
labeled “CPSC 16 CFR 1201” or “ANSI Z97.1” as appro¬
priate.

R308.2 Louvered windows or jalousies. Regular, float,
wired or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows
shall be not less than nominal 3 / 16 inch (5 mm) thick and not
more than 48 inches (1219 mm) in length. Exposed glass
edges shall be smooth.

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R308.2.1 Wired glass prohibited. Wired glass with wire
exposed on longitudinal edges shall not be used in jalou¬
sies or louvered windows.

R308.3 Human impact loads. Individual glazed areas,
including glass mirrors in hazardous locations such as those
indicated as defined in Section R308.4, shall pass the test
requirements of Section R308.3.1.

Exceptions:

1. Louvered windows and jalousies shall comply with
Section R308.2.

2. Mirrors and other glass panels mounted or hung on a
surface that provides a continuous backing support.

3. Glass unit masonry complying with Section R607.
R308.3.1 Impact test. Where required by other sections
of the code, glazing shall be tested in accordance with
CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Glazing shall comply with the test
criteria for Category II unless otherwise indicated in Table
R308.3.1(1).

Exception: Glazing not in doors or enclosures for hot
tubs, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and
showers shall be permitted to be tested in accordance
with ANSI Z97.1. Glazing shall comply with the test cri¬
teria for Class A unless indicated in Table R308.3.1(2).
R308.4 Hazardous locations. The locations specified in Sec¬
tions R308.4.1 through R308.4.7 shall be considered to be
specific hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing.
R308.4.1 Glazing in doors. Glazing in fixed and operable
panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be con¬
sidered to be a hazardous location.

Exceptions:

1. Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-
inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.

2. Decorative glazing.

R308.4.2 Glazing adjacent to doors. Glazing in an indi¬
vidual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door shall be
considered to be a hazardous location where the bottom
exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524
mm) above the floor or walking surface and it meets either
of the following conditions:

1. Where the glazing is within 24 inches (610 mm) of
either side of the door in the plane of the door in a
closed position.

2. Where the glazing is on a wall perpendicular to the
plane of the door in a closed position and within 24
inches (610 mm) of the hinge side of an in-swinging
door.

Exceptions:

1. Decorative glazing.

2. Where there is an intervening wall or other perma¬
nent barrier between the door and the glazing.

3. Where access through the door is to a closet or stor¬
age area 3 feet (914 mm) or less in depth. Glazing in
this application shall comply with Section R308.4.3.

4. Glazing that is adjacent to the fixed panel of patio
doors.

R308.4.3 Glazing in windows. Glazing in an individual
fixed or operable panel that meets all of the following con¬
ditions shall be considered to be a hazardous location:

1. The exposed area of an individual pane is larger than
9 square feet (0.836 m 2 ),

2. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 18 inches
(457 mm) above the floor,

3. The top edge of the glazing is more than 36 inches
(914 mm) above the floor; and

TABLE R308.3.1 (1)

MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING CPSC 16 CFR 1201

EXPOSED SURFACE
AREA OF ONE SIDE
OF ONE LITE

GLAZING IN
STORM OR
COMBINATION
DOORS

(Category Class)

GLAZING IN
DOORS

(Category Class)

GLAZED PANELS
REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.3
(Category Class)

GLAZED PANELS
REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.2
(Category Class)

GLAZING IN
DOORS AND
ENCLOSURES
REGULATED BY
SECTION 308.4.5
(Category Class)

SLIDING GLASS
DOORS PATIO TYPE
(Category Class)

9 square feet or less
More than 9 square feet

I NR I

T\ n if

For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
NR = “No Requirement.”

TABLE R308.3.1(2)

MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING ANSI Z97.1

EXPOSED SURFACE AREA
OF ONE SIDE OF ONE LITE

GLAZED PANELS REGULATED

BY SECTION R308.4.3
(Category Class)

GLAZED PANELS REGULATED

BY SECTION R308.4.2
(Category Class)

DOORS AND ENCLOSURES
REGULATED BY SECTION R308.4.5 3
(Category Class)

9 square feet or less

No requirement

More than 9 square feet

For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .

a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R308.3.1.

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R311.7.10.1 Spiral stairways. Spiral stairways are
permitted, provided that the clear width at and below
the handrail is not less than 26 inches (660 mm) and the
walkline radius is not greater than 247 2 inches (622
mm). Each tread shall have a depth of not less than 67 4
inches (171 mm) at the walkline. All treads shall be
identical, and the rise shall be not more than 9 '/ 2 inches
(241 mm). Headroom shall be not less than 6 feet 6
inches (1982 mm).

R311.7.10.2 Bulkhead enclosure stairways. Stair¬
ways serving bulkhead enclosures, not part of the
required building egress, providing access from the out¬
side grade level to the basement shall be exempt from
the requirements of Sections R311.3 and R311.7 where
the height from the basement finished floor level to
grade adjacent to the stairway is not more than 8 feet
(2438 mm) and the grade level opening to the stairway
is covered by a bulkhead enclosure with hinged doors
or other approved means.

R311.7.11 Alternating tread devices. Alternating tread
devices shall not be used as an element of a means of
egress. Alternating tread devices shall be permitted pro¬
vided that the required means of egress stairway or ramp
serves the same space at each adjoining level or where a
means of egress is not required. The clear width at and
below the handrails shall be not less than 20 inches (508
mm).

R311.7.11.1 Treads of alternating tread devices.

Alternating tread devices shall have a tread depth of not
less than 5 inches (127 mm), a projected tread depth of
not less than 87 2 inches (216 mm), a tread width of not
less than 7 inches (178 mm) and a riser height of not
more than 97 2 inches (241 mm). The tread depth shall
be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of
the foremost projections of adjacent treads. The riser
height shall be measured vertically between the leading
edges of adjacent treads. The riser height and tread
depth provided shall result in an angle of ascent from
the horizontal of between 50 and 70 degrees (0.87 and
1.22 rad). The initial tread of the device shall begin at
the same elevation as the platform, landing or floor sur¬
face.

R311.7.11.2 Handrails of alternating tread devices.

Handrails shall be provided on both sides of alternating
tread devices and shall comply with Sections
R311.7.8.2 to R311.7.8.4. Handrail height shall be uni¬
form, not less than 30 inches (762 mm) and not more
than 34 inches (864 mm).

R311.7.12 Ships ladders. Ships ladders shall not be used
as an element of a means of egress. Ships ladders shall be
permitted provided that a required means of egress stair¬
way or ramp serves the same space at each adjoining
level or where a means of egress is not required. The
clear width at and below the handrails shall be not less
than 20 inches.

R311.7.12.1 Treads of ships ladders. Treads shall
have a depth of not less than 5 inches (127 mm). The

tread shall be projected such that the total of the tread
depth plus the nosing projection is not less than 87 2
inches (216 mm). The riser height shall be not more
than 97 2 inches (241 mm).

R311.7.12.2 Handrails of ships ladders. Handrails
shall be provided on both sides of ships ladders and
shall comply with Sections R311.7.8.2 to R311.7.8.4.
Handrail height shall be uniform, not less than 30
inches (762 mm) and not more than 34 inches (864
mm).

R311.8 Ramps.

R311.8.1 Maximum slope. Ramps serving the egress
door required by Section R311.2 shall have a slope of not
more than 1 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.3-per¬
cent slope). All other ramps shall have a maximum slope
of 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5 percent).
Exception: Where it is technically infeasible to comply
because of site constraints, ramps shall have a slope of
not more than 1 unit vertical in 8 units horizontal (12.5
percent).

R311.8.2 Landings required. There shall be a floor or
landing at the top and bottom of each ramp, where doors
open onto ramps, and where ramps change directions. The
width of the landing perpendicular to the ramp slope shall
be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).

R311.8.3 Handrails required. Handrails shall be pro¬
vided on not less than one side of ramps exceeding a slope
of one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent
slope).

R311.8.3.1 Height. Handrail height, measured above
the finished surface of the ramp slope, shall be not less
than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches
(965 mm).

R311.8.3.2 Grip size. Handrails on ramps shall comply
with Section R311.7.8.3.

R311.8.3.3 Continuity. Handrails where required on
ramps shall be continuous for the full length of the
ramp. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate
in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent
to a wall shall have a space of not less than 17 2 inches
(38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.

SECTION R312

GUARDS AND WINDOW FALL PROTECTION

R312.1 Guards. Guards shall be provided in accordance with

Sections R312.1.1 through R312.1.4.

R312.1.1 Where required. Guards shall be located along
open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, ramps and
landings, that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm)
measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any
point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge
of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered
as a guard.

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R312.1.2 Height. Required guards at open-sided walking
surfaces, including stairs, porches, balconies or landings,
shall be not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height as
measured vertically above the adjacent walking surface or
the line connecting the leading edges of the treads.

Exceptions:

1. Guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a
height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) mea¬
sured vertically from a line connecting the lead¬
ing edges of the treads.

2. Where the top of the guard serves as a handrail on
the open sides of stairs, the top of the guard shall be
not less than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than
38 inches (965 mm) as measured vertically from a
line connecting the leading edges of the treads.

R312.1.3 Opening limitations. Required guards shall not
have openings from the walking surface to the required
guard height that allow passage of a sphere 4 inches (102
mm) in diameter.

Exceptions:

1. The triangular openings at the open side of stair,
formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a
guard, shall not allow passage of a sphere 6
inches (153 mm) in diameter.

2. Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have
openings that allow passage of a sphere 4 3 / 8
inches (111 mm) in diameter.

R312.1.4 Exterior plastic composite guards. Plastic
composite exterior guards shall comply with the require¬
ments of Section R317.4.

R312.2 Window fall protection. Window fall protection
shall be provided in accordance with Sections R312.2.1 and
R312.2.2.

R312.2.1 Window sills. In dwelling units, where the top of
the sill of an operable window opening is located less than
24 inches (610 mm) above the finished floor and greater
than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade or
other surface below on the exterior of the building, the
operable window shall comply with one of the following:

1. Operable windows with openings that will not allow
a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere to pass through
the opening where the opening is in its largest
opened position.

2. Operable windows that are provided with window fall
prevention devices that comply with ASTM F2090.

3. Operable windows that are provided with window
opening control devices that comply with Section
R312.2.2.

R312.2.2 Window opening control devices. Window
opening control devices shall comply with ASTM F2090.
The window opening control device, after operation to
release the control device allowing the window to fully
open, shall not reduce the net clear opening area of the win¬
dow unit to less than the area required by Section R310.2.1.

SECTION R313

AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems. An

automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed
in townhouses.

Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system
shall not be required where additions or alterations are
made to existing townhouses that do not have an auto¬
matic residential fire sprinkler system installed.

R313.1.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential
fire sprinkler systems for townhouses shall be designed and
installed in accordance with Section R313.3 or NFPA 13D.
R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sys¬
tems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be
installed in one- and two-family dwellings.

Exceptions:

1. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall | |
not be required for additions or alterations to exist¬
ing buildings that are not already provided with an
automatic residential sprinkler system.

2. Accessory Dwelling Unit, provided that all of the
following are met:

2.1. The unit meets the definition of an Accessory
Dwelling Unit as defined in the Government
Code Section 65852.2.

2.2. The existing primary residence does not
have automatic fire sprinklers.

2.3. The accessory detached dwelling unit does
not exceed 1,200 square feet in size.

2.4. The unit is on the same lot as the primary
residence.

R313.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential
fire sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in
accordance with Section R313.3 or NFPA 13D.

R313.3 Dwelling unit fire sprinkler systems.

R313.3.1 General. The design and installation of residential
fire sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with NFPA
13D or Section R313.3, which shall be considered equiva¬
lent to NFPA 13D. Partial residential sprinkler systems shall
be permitted to be installed only in buildings not required to
be equipped with a residential sprinkler system. Section
R313.3 shall apply to stand-alone and multipurpose wet-
pipe sprinkler systems that do not include the use of anti¬
freeze. A multipurpose fire sprinkler system shall supply
domestic water to both fire sprinklers and plumbing fix¬
tures. A stand-alone sprinkler system shall be separate and
independent from the water distribution system.

R313.3.1.1 Backflow protection. A backflow preventer
shall not be required to separate a sprinkler system
from the water distribution system, provided that:

1. The system complies with NFPA 13D or Section
R313;

2. Piping materials are suitable for potable water in
accordance with the California Plumbing Code; and

3. The system does not contain antifreeze or have a
fire department connection.

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R313.3.1.2 Required sprinkler locations. Sprinklers
shall be installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit.

Exceptions:

1. Attics, crawl spaces and normally unoccupied
concealed spaces that do not contain fuel-fired
appliances do not require sprinklers. In attics,
crawl spaces and normally unoccupied con¬
cealed spaces that contain fuel-fired equip¬
ment, a sprinkler shall be installed above the
equipment; however, sprinklers shall not be
required in the remainder of the space.

2. Clothes closets, linen closets and pantries not
exceeding 24 square feet (2.2 m 2 ) in area, with
the smallest dimension not greater than 3 feet
(915 mm) and having wall and ceiling sur¬
faces of gypsum board.

3. Bathrooms not more than 55 square feet (5.1
m 2 ) in area.

4. Detached garages; carports with no habitable
space above; open attached porches; unheated
entry areas, such as mud rooms, that are adja¬
cent to an exterior door; and similar areas.

R313.3.2 Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be new listed resi¬
dential sprinklers and shall be installed in accordance with
the sprinkler manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R313.3.2.1 Temperature rating and separation from
heat sources. Except as provided for in Section
R313.3.2.2, sprinklers shall have a temperature rating
of not less than 135°F (57°C) and not more than 170°F
(77°C). Sprinklers shall be separated from heat sources
as required by the sprinkler manufacturer’s installation
instructions.

R313.3.2.2 Intermediate temperature sprinklers.

Sprinklers shall have an intermediate temperature rat¬
ing not less than 175°F (79°C) and not more than 225°F
(107°C) where installed in the following locations:

1. Directly under skylights, where the sprinkler is
exposed to direct sunlight.

2. In attics.

3. In concealed spaces located directly beneath a roof.

4. Within the distance to a heat source as specified
in Table R313.3.2.2.

R313.3.2.3 Freezing areas. Piping shall be protected
from freezing as required by the California Plumbing
Code. Where sprinklers are required in areas that are
subject to freezing, dry-sidewall or dry-pendent sprin¬
klers extending from a nonfreezing area into a freezing
area shall be installed. Where fire sprinkler piping can¬
not be adequately protected against freezing, the sys¬
tem shall be designed and installed in accordance with
NFPA 13D.

R313.3.2.4 Sprinkler coverage. Sprinkler coverage
requirements and sprinkler obstruction requirements
shall be in accordance with Sections R313.3.2.4.1 and
R313.3.2.4.2.

R313.3.2.4.1 Coverage area limit. The area of cov¬
erage of a single sprinkler shall not exceed 400

square feet (37 m 2 ) and shall be based on the
sprinkler listing and the sprinkler manufacturer’s
installation instructions.

TABLE R313.3.2.2

LOCATIONS WHERE INTERMEDIATE
TEMPERATURE SPRINKLERS ARE REQUIRED

HEAT

SOURCE

RANGE OF DISTANCE FROM
HEAT SOURCE WITHIN
WHICH INTERMEDIATE
TEMPERATURE
SPRINKLERS ARE
REQUIRED? 1 ’(inches)

Fireplace, side of open or recessed fireplace

12 to 36

Fireplace, front of recessed fireplace

36 to 60

Coal and wood burning stove

12 to 42

Kitchen range top

9 to 18

Oven

9 to 18

Vent connector or chimney connector

9 to 18

Heating duct, not insulated

9 to 18

Hot water pipe, not insulated

6 to 12

Side of ceiling or wall warm air register

12 to 24

Front of wall mounted warm air register

18 to 36

Water heater, furnace or boiler

3 to 6

Luminaire up to 250 watts

3 to 6

Luminaire 250 watts up to 499 watts

6 to 12

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.

a. Sprinklers shall not be located at distances less than the minimum table
distance unless the sprinkler listing allows a lesser distance.

b. Distances shall be measured in a straight line from the nearest edge of the
heat source to the nearest edge of the sprinkler.

R313.3.2.4.2 Obstructions to coverage. Sprinkler
discharge shall not be blocked by obstructions unless
additional sprinklers are installed to protect the
obstructed area. Additional sprinklers shall not be
required where the sprinkler separation from obstruc¬
tions complies with either the minimum distance indi¬
cated in Figure R313.3.2.4.2 or the minimum
distances specified in the sprinkler manufacturer’s
instructions where the manufacturer’s instructions
permit a lesser distance.

R313.3.2.4.2.1 Additional requirements for
pendent sprinklers. Pendent sprinklers within 3
feet (915 mm) of the center of a ceiling fan, sur¬
face- mounted ceiling luminaire or similar object
shall be considered to be obstructed, and addi¬
tional sprinklers shall be installed.

R313.3.2.4.2.2 Additional requirements for
sidewall sprinklers. Sidewall sprinklers within 5
feet (1524 mm) of the center of a ceiling fan, sur¬
face- mounted ceiling luminaire or similar object
shall be considered to be obstructed, and addi¬
tional sprinklers shall be installed.

R313.3.2.5 Sprinkler installation on systems assem¬
bled with solvent cement. The solvent cementing of
threaded adapter fittings shall be completed and
threaded adapters for sprinklers shall be verified as

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being clear of excess cement prior to the installation of
sprinklers on systems assembled with solvent cement.
R313.3.2.6 Sprinkler modifications prohibited. Paint¬
ing, caulking or modifying of sprinklers shall be prohib¬
ited. Sprinklers that have been painted, caulked, modified
or damaged shall be replaced with new sprinklers.
R313.3.3 Sprinkler piping system. Sprinkler piping shall
be supported in accordance with the requirements for cold
water distribution piping. Sprinkler piping shall comply
with all requirements for cold water distribution piping.
For multipurpose piping systems, the sprinkler piping
shall connect to and be a part of the cold water distribution
piping system.

Exception: For plastic piping, it shall be permissible to
follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
R313.3.3.1 Nonmetallic pipe and tubing. Nonmetallic
pipe and tubing, such as CPVC, PEX, and PE-RT shall
be listed for use in residential fire sprinkler systems.
R313.3.3.1.1 Nonmetallic pipe protection. Nonme¬
tallic pipe and tubing systems shall be protected
from exposure to the living space by a layer of not
less than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm) thick gypsum wallboard,
V 2 inch thick plywood (13 mm), or other material
having a 15 minute fire rating.

Exceptions:

1. Pipe protection shall not be required in areas
that do not require protection with sprinklers
as specified in Section R313.3.1.2.

2. Pipe protection shall not be required
where exposed piping is permitted by the
pipe listing.

R313.3.3.2 Shutoff valves prohibited. With the excep¬
tion of shutoff valves for the entire water distribution
system, valves shall not be installed in any location
where the valve would isolate piping serving one or
more sprinklers.

R313.3.3.3 Single dwelling limit. Piping beyond the ser¬
vice valve located at the beginning of the water distribu¬
tion system shall not serve more than one dwelling.
R313.3.3.4 Drain. A means to drain the sprinkler sys¬
tem shall be provided on the system side of the water
distribution shutoff valve.

R313.3.4 Determining system design flow. The flow for
sizing the sprinkler piping system shall be based on the
flow rating of each sprinkler in accordance with Section
R313.3.4.1 and the calculation in accordance with Section
R313.3.4.2.

R313.3.4.1 Determining required flow rate for each
sprinkler. The minimum required flow for each sprin¬
kler shall be determined using the sprinkler manufac¬
turer’s published data for the specific sprinkler model
based on all of the following:

1. The area of coverage.

2. The ceiling configuration.

3. The temperature rating.

4. Any additional conditions specified by the sprin¬
kler manufacturer.

R313.3.4.2 System design flow rate. The design flow
rate for the system shall be based on the following:

1. The design flow rate for a room having only one
sprinkler shall be the flow rate required for that
sprinkler, as determined by Section R313.3.4.1.

2. The design flow rate for a room having two or
more sprinklers a shall be determined by identify¬
ing the sprinkler in that room with the highest
required flow rate, based on Section R313.3.4.1,
and multiplying that flow rate by 2.

3. Where the sprinkler manufacturer specifies dif¬
ferent criteria for ceiling configurations that are
not smooth, flat and horizontal, the required flow
rate for that room shall comply with the sprinkler
manufacturer’s instructions.

4. The design flow rate for the sprinkler system
shall be the flow required by the room with the
largest flow rate, based on Items 1, 2 and 3.

5. For the purpose of this section, it shall be permis¬
sible to reduce the design flow rate for a room by
subdividing the space into two or more rooms,
where each room is evaluated separately with
respect to the required design flow rate. Each
room shall be bounded by walls and a ceiling.
Openings in walls shall have a lintel not less than
8 inches (203 mm) in depth and each lintel shall
form a solid barrier between the ceiling and the
top of the opening.

R313.3.5 Water supply. The water supply shall provide
not less than the required design flow rate for sprinklers in
accordance with Section R313.3.4.2 at a pressure not less
than that used to comply with Section R313.3.6. Where a
water supply serves both domestic and fire sprinkler sys¬
tems, 5 gpm (19 L/min) shall be added to the sprinkler sys¬
tem demand at the point where the systems are connected,
to determine the size of common piping and the size of the
total water supply requirements where no provision is
made to prevent flow into the domestic water system upon
operation of a sprinkler. For multipurpose piping systems,
the 5 gpm (19 L/min) demand shall be added at the domes¬
tic connection nearest the design area. This demand may
be split between two domestic connections at 2.5 gpm (10
L/min) each.

R313.3.5.1 Water supply from individual sources.

Where a dwelling unit water supply is from a tank sys¬
tem, a private well system, a pump, or a combination of
these, the available water supply shall be based on the
minimum pressure control setting for the pump.
R313.3.5.2 Required capacity. The water supply shall
have the capacity to provide the required design flow
rate for sprinklers for a period of time as follows:

1. Seven minutes for dwelling units one story in
height and less than 2,000 square feet (186 m 2 ) in
area. For the purpose of determining the area of
the dwelling unit, the area of attached garages
and attached open carports, porches, balconies
and patios shall not be included.

2. Ten minutes for dwelling units two or more stories in
height or equal to or greater than 2,000 square feet

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(186 m 2 ) in area. For the purpose of determining the
area of the dwelling unit, the area of attached
garages and attached open carports, porches, balco¬
nies, and patios shall not be included.

R313.3.5.2.1 Where a well system, a water supply
tank system, a pump, or a combination thereof, is
used, the configuration for the system shall be one of
the following:

1. The water supply shall serve both domestic
and fire sprinkler systems. Any combination
of well capacity and tank storage shall be per¬
mitted to meet the capacity requirement.

2. A stand-alone tank is permitted if the follow¬
ing conditions are met:

2.1. The pump shall be connected to a 220-
volt circuit breaker shared with a
common household appliance (e.g.,
range, oven, dryer),

2.2. The pump shall be a stainless steel
240-volt pump,

2.3. A valve shall be provided to exercise
the pump. The discharge of the exercise
valve shall be piped to the tank, and

2.4. A sign shall be provided stating “Valve
must be opened monthly for 5 minutes. ”

2.5. A means for automatically refilling the
tank level so that the tank capacity will
meet the required water supply
duration in minutes shall be provided.

R313.3.5.3 Connections to automatic fire sprinkler
systems. The potable water supply to automatic fire
sprinkler shall be protected against backflow by a dou¬
ble check backflow prevention assembly, a double
check fire protection backflow prevention assembly, a
reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assem¬
bly or a reduced pressure principle fire protection back-
flow prevention assembly.

Exception: Where permitted by Section R313.3.1.1,
backflow protection for the water supply system
shall not be required.

R313.3.5.3.1 Additives or nonpotable source.

Where systems contain chemical additives or anti¬
freeze, or where systems are connected to a nonpota¬
ble secondary water supply, the potable water
supply shall be protected against backflow by a
reduced pressure principle backflow prevention
assembly or a reduced pressure principle fire protec¬
tion backflow prevention assembly. Where chemical
additives or antifreeze is added to only a portion of
an automatic fire sprinkler or standpipe system, the
reduced pressure principle fire protection backflow
preventer shall be permitted to be located so as to
isolate that portion of the system.

R313.3.6 Pipe sizing. The piping to sprinklers shall be
sized for the flow required by Section R313.3.4.2. The
flow required to supply the plumbing fixtures shall not be
required to be added to the sprinkler design flow.

R313.3.6.1 Method of sizing pipe. Piping supplying
sprinklers shall be sized using the prescriptive method

in Section R313.3.6.2 or by hydraulic calculation in
accordance with NFPA 13D. The minimum pipe size
from the water supply source to any sprinkler shall be
3 / 4 inch (19 mm) nominal. Threaded adapter fittings at
the point where sprinklers are attached to the piping
shall be a minimum of V 2 inch (13 mm) nominal.
R313.3.6.2 Prescriptive pipe sizing method. Pipe shall
be sized by determining the available pressure to offset
friction loss in piping and identifying a piping material,
diameter and length using the equation in Section
R313.3.6.2.1 and the procedure in Section R313.3.6.2.2.
R313.3.6.2.1 Available pressure equation. The
pressure available to offset friction loss in the inte¬
rior piping system (Pj shall be determined in accor¬
dance with the Equation 29-1.

P , = P sup- PL svo- PL nr PL d- PL e - P sp

(Equation 29-1)

where:

P, = Pressure used in applying Tables R313.3.6.2(4)
through R313.3.6.2(9).

P mp = Pressure available from the water supply source.
PL svc = Pressure loss in the water-service pipe.

PL m = Pressure loss in the water meter.

PL d = Pressure loss from devices other than the
water meter.

PL e = Pressure loss associated with changes in
elevation.

P sp = Maximum pressure required by a sprinkler.
R313.3.6.2.2 Calculation procedure. Determina¬
tion of the required size for water distribution piping
shall be in accordance with the following procedure:

Step 1 - Determine P sup

Obtain the static supply pressure that will be available
from the water main from the water purveyor, or for an
individual source, the available supply pressure shall
be in accordance with Section R313.3.5.1.

Step 2 - Determine PL SVC

Use Table R313.3.6.2(l) to determine the pressure
loss in the water service pipe based on the selected
size of the water service.

Step 3 - Determine PL m

Use Table R313.3.6.2(2) to determine the pressure
loss from the water meter, based on the selected
water meter size.

Step 4 - Determine PL d

Determine the pressure loss from devices other than
the water meter installed in the piping system supply¬
ing sprinklers, such as pressure-reducing valves,
backflow preventers, water softeners or water filters.
Device pressure losses shall be based on the device
manufacturer’s specifications. The flow rate used to
determine pressure loss shall be the rate from Section
R313.3.4.2, except that 5 gpm (0.3 L/S) shall be
added where the device is installed in a water-service
pipe that supplies more than one dwelling. As alterna¬
tive to deducting pressure loss for a device, an auto¬
matic bypass valve shall be installed to divert flow
around the device when a sprinkler activates.

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local scour. Where soils are susceptible to erosion and
local scour, stem wall foundations shall have deep foot¬
ings to account for the loss of soil.

R322.3.4 Walls below design flood elevation. Walls and
partitions are permitted below the elevated floor, provided
that such walls and partitions are not part of the structural
support of the building or structure and:

1. Electrical, mechanical and plumbing system compo¬
nents are not to be mounted on or penetrate through
walls that are designed to break away under flood
loads; and

2. Are constructed with insect screening or open lat¬
tice; or

3. Are designed to break away or collapse without
causing collapse, displacement or other structural
damage to the elevated portion of the building or
supporting foundation system. Such walls, framing
and connections shall have a resistance of not less
than 10 (479 Pa) and not more than 20 pounds per
square foot (958 Pa) as determined using allowable
stress design; or

4. Where wind loading values of this code exceed 20
pounds per square foot (958 Pa), as determined
using allowable stress design, the construction docu¬
ments shall include documentation prepared and
sealed by a registered design professional that:

4.1. The walls and partitions below the design
flood elevation have been designed to col¬
lapse from a water load less than that which
would occur during the base flood.

4.2. The elevated portion of the building and sup¬
porting foundation system have been
designed to withstand the effects of wind and
flood loads acting simultaneously on struc¬
tural and nonstructural building components.
Water-loading values used shall be those
associated with the design flood. Wind-load¬
ing values shall be those required by this code.

5. Walls intended to break away under flood loads as
specified in Item 3 or 4 have flood openings that
meet the criteria in Section R322.2.2, Item 2.

R322.3.5 Enclosed areas below design flood elevation.

Enclosed areas below the design flood elevation shall be
used solely for parking of vehicles, building access or stor¬
age.

R322.3.5.1 Protection of building envelope. An exte¬
rior door that meets the requirements of Section R609
shall be installed at the top of stairs that provide access to
the building and that are enclosed with walls designed to
break away in accordance with Section R322.3.4.
R322.3.6 Construction documents. The construction
documents shall include documentation that is prepared
and sealed by a registered design professional that the
design and methods of construction to be used meet the
applicable criteria of this section.

R322.3.7 Tanks. Underground tanks shall be anchored to
prevent flotation, collapse and lateral movement under
conditions of the base flood. Above-ground tanks shall be
installed at or above the elevation required in Section
R322.3.2. Where elevated on platforms, the platforms
shall be cantilevered from or knee braced to the building
or shall be supported on foundations that conform to the
requirements of Section R322.3.

SECTION R323
STORM SHELTERS

R323.1 General. This section applies to storm shelters where
constructed as separate detached buildings or where con¬
structed as safe rooms within buildings for the purpose of
providing refuge from storms that produce high winds, such
as tornados and hurricanes. In addition to other applicable
requirements in this code, storm shelters shall be constructed
in accordance with ICC/NSSA-500.

SECTION 324

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS

R324.1 General. Solar energy systems shall comply with the
provisions of this section.

R324.2 Solar thermal systems. Solar thermal systems shall
be designed and installed in accordance with the California
Plumbing Code and the California Fire Code.

R324.3 Photovoltaic systems. Photovoltaic systems shall be
designed and installed in accordance with Sections R324.3.1
through R324.6.1 and the California Electrical Code. Invert¬
ers shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741.
Systems connected to the utility grid shall use inverters listed
for utility interaction.

R324.3.1 Equipment listings. Photovoltaic panels and
modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL
1703.

R324.4 Rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems. Rooftop-
mounted photovoltaic panel systems installed on or above the
roof covering shall be designed and installed in accordance
with Section R907.

R324.4.1 Roof live load. Roof structures that provide sup¬
port for photovoltaic panel systems shall be designed for
applicable roof live load. The design of roof structures need
not include roof live load in the areas covered by photovol¬
taic panel systems. Portions of roof structures not covered
by photovoltaic panels shall be designed for roof live load.
Roof structures that provide support for photovoltaic panel
systems shall be designed for live load, L R , for the load case
where the photovoltaic panel system is not present.

R324.5 Building-integrated photovoltaic systems. Build¬
ing-integrated photovoltaic systems that serve as roof cover¬
ings shall be designed and installed in accordance with
Section R905.

R324.5.1 Photovoltaic shingles. Photovoltaic shingles
shall comply with Section R905.16.

R324.6 Roof access and pathways. Roof access, pathways, I I
and setback requirements shall be provided in accordance \ \

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with Sections R324.6.1 through R324.6.2.1. Access and mini¬
mum spacing shall be required to provide emergency access
to the roof, to provide pathways to specific areas of the roof,
to 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 struc¬
tures, carports, solar trelisses, and similar structures,
shall not be required to provide roof access.

2. Roof access, pathways, and setbacks need not be
provided where the fire code official 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 (2:12)
or less.

R324.6.1 Pathways. Not less than two minimum 36-inch-
wide (914 mm) pathways on separate roof planes, from
lowest roof edge to ridge, shall be provided on all build¬
ings. At least one pathway shall be provided on the street
or driveway side of the roof. For each roof plane with a
photovoltaic array, a minimum 36-inch-wide (914 mm)
pathway from the lowest roof edge to ridge shall be pro¬
vided on the same roof plane as the photovoltaic array, on
an adjacent roof plane, or straddling the same and adja¬
cent roof planes. Pathways shall be over areas capable of
supporting fire fighters accessing the roof. Pathways shall
be located in areas with minimal obstructions such as vent
pipes, conduit, or mechanical equipment.

R324.6.2 Setback at ridge. For photovoltaic arrays occupy¬
ing not more than 33 percent of the plan view total roof
area, not less than an 18-inch (457 mm) clear set back is
required on both sides of a horizontal ridge. For photovol¬
taic arrays occupying more than 33 percent of the plan view
total roof area, not less than a 36-inch (914 mm) clear set
back is required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.

R324.6.2.1 Alternative setback at ridge. Where an auto¬
matic sprinkler system is installed within the dwelling in
accordance with NFPA 13D setbacks at ridges shall
conform with one of the following:

1. For photovoltaic arrays occupying not more than
66 percent of the plan view total roof area, not
less than an 18-inch (457 mm) clear setback is
required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.

2. For photovoltaic arrays occupying more than 66
percent of the plan view total roof area, not less
than a 36-inch (914 mm) clear setback is
required on both sides of a horizontal ridge.

R324.6.4 Emergency escape and rescue opening. Panels
and modules installed on dwellings shall not be placed on
the portion of a roof that is below an emergency escape and
rescue opening. A 36-inch-wide (914 mm) pathway shall be
provided to the emergency escape and rescue opening.

R324.7 Ground-mounted photovoltaic systems. Ground-
mounted photovoltaic systems shall be designed and in¬
stalled in accordance with Section R301.

R324.7.1 Fire separation distances. Ground-mounted pho- | |
tovoltaic systems shall be subject to the fire separation dis¬
tance requirements determined by the enforcing agency.
R324.7.2 Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays. Ground \ \
mounted photovoltaic arrays shall comply with this section
and the California Electrical Code. Setback requirements
shall not apply to ground-mounted, free-standing photovol¬
taic arrays. A clear, brush-free area of 10 feet (3048 mm)
shall be required for ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays.
R324.7.3 Locations of DC conductors. Conduit, wiring \ \
systems, and raceways for photovoltaic circuits shall be
located as close as possible to the ridge or hip or valley
and from the hip or valley as directly as possible to an out¬
side wall to reduce trip hazards and maximize ventilation
opportunities. Conduit runs between sub arrays and to DC
combiner boxes shall be installed in a manner that mini¬
mizes the total amount of conduit on the roof by taking the
shortest path from the array to the DC combiner box. The
DC combiner boxes shall be located such that conduit
runs are minimized in the pathways between arrays. DC
wiring shall be installed in metallic conduit or raceways
when located within enclosed spaces in a building. Con¬
duit shall run along the bottom of load bearing members. <

SECTION R325
MEZZANINES

R325.1 General. Mezzanines shall comply with Section R325.
R325.2 Mezzanines. The clear height above and below mezza¬
nine floor construction shall be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
R325.3 Area limitation. The aggregate area of a mezzanine or
mezzanines shall be not greater than one-third of the floor area
of the room or space in which they are located. The enclosed
portion of a room shall not be included in a determination of
the floor area of the room in which the mezzanine is located.
R325.4 Means of egress. The means of egress for mezzanines
shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section R311.
R325.5 Openness. Mezzanines shall be open and unob¬
structed to the room in which they are located except for
walls not more than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height, columns
and posts.

Exceptions:

1. Mezzanines or portions thereof are not required to be
open to the room in which they are located, provided
that the aggregate floor area of the enclosed space is
not greater than 10 percent of the mezzanine area.

2. In buildings that are not more than two stories above
grade plane and equipped throughout with an auto¬
matic sprinkler system in accordance with Section
R313, a mezzanine shall not be required to be open to
the room in which the mezzanine is located.

SECTION R326

SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS AND HOT TUBS

R326.1 General. The design and construction of pools and
spas shall comply with the International Swimming Pool and
Spa Code.

112

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SECTION R327

STATIONARY STORAGE BATTERY SYSTEMS

R327.1 General. Stationary storage battery systems, where
provided, shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R327.2 Equipment listings. Stationary storage battery sys¬
tems shall be listed and labeled for residential use in accor¬
dance with UL 9540.

Exceptions:

1. Where approved, repurposed unlisted battery sys¬
tems from electric vehicles are allowed to be
installed outdoors or in detached sheds located a
minimum of 5 feet (1524 mm) from exterior walls,
property lines, and public ways.

2. Battery systems that are an integral part of an elec¬
tric vehicle are allowed provided, the installation
complies with Section 625.48 ofNFPA 70.

3. Battery systems less than 1 kWh (3.6 megajoules).
R327.3 Installation. Stationary storage battery systems shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc¬
tions and their listing, if applicable, and shall not be installed
within the habitable space of a dwelling unit.

R327.4 Electrical installation. Stationary storage battery sys¬
tems shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 70. Inverters
shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1741 or pro¬
vided as part of the UL 9540 listing. Systems connected to the
utility grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.
R327.5 Ventilation. Indoor installations of stationary storage
battery systems that include batteries that produce hydrogen or
other flammable gases during charging shall be provided with
ventilation in accordance with the California Mechanical Code.
R327.6 Protection from impact. Stationary storage battery
systems installed in a location subject to vehicle damage
shall be protected by approved barriers.

SECTION R334

CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION,
DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

R334.1 Construction waste management. Recycle and/or sal¬
vage for reuse a minimum of 65 percent of the nonhazardous
construction and demolition waste in accordance with the Cali¬
fornia Green Building Standards Code, Chapter 4, Division 4.4.

^Ff'TtDM i

SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR LICENSED
24-HOUR CARE FACILITIES IN A GROUP R-3.1

R335.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall apply to
24-hour care facilities in a Group R-3.1 occupancy licensed
by a governmental agency.

R335.2 General. The provisions in this section shall apply in
addition to general requirements in this code.

R335.2.1 Restraint shall not be practiced in a Group R-3.1
occupancy.

Exception: Occupancies which meet all the require¬
ments for a Group 1-3 occupancy.

R335.2.2 Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section
13133, regulations of the state fire marshal pertaining to

Occupancies classified as Residential Facilities (RF) and
Residential-care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) shall
apply uniformly throughout the state and no city, county,
city and county, including a charter city or charter county,
or fire protection district shall adopt or enforce any ordi¬
nance or local rule or regulation relating to fire and panic
safety which is inconsistent with these regulations. A city,
county, city and county, including a charter city or charter
county may pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section
13143.5, or afire protection district may pursuant to Health
and Safety Code Section 13869.7, adopt standards more
stringent than those adopted by the state fire marshal that
are reasonably necessary to accommodate local climate,
geological, or topographical conditions relating to roof
coverings for Residential-care Facilities for the Elderly.
Exception: Local regulations relating to roof coverings
in facilities licensed as a Residential Care Facility for
the Elderly (RCFE) per Health and Safety Code Section
13133.

R335.3 Building height and area provisions.

R335.3.1 Limitations six or less clients. Group R-3.1
occupancies where nonambulatory clients are housed
above the first story, having more than two stories in
height or having more than 3,000 square feet (279 m 2 ) of
floor area above the first story shall not be of less than
one-hour fire-resistance-rated construction throughout.

In Group R-3.1 occupancies housing a bedridden cli¬
ent, the client sleeping room shall not be located above or
below the first story.

Exception: Clients who become bedridden as a result of
a temporary illness as defined in Health and Safety Code
Sections 1566.45, 1568.0832 and 1569.72. A temporary
illness is an illness which persists for 14 days or less. A
bedridden client may be retained in excess of the 14 days
upon approval by the Department of Social Services and
may continue to be housed on any story in a Group R-3.1
occupancy classified as a licensed residential facility.
Every licensee admitting or retaining a bedridden resi¬
dent shall, within 48 hours of the resident’s admission or
retention in the facility, notify the local fire authority with
jurisdiction of the estimated length of time the resident
will retain his or her bedridden status in the facility.
R335.3.2. Buildings housing protective social-care homes
or in occupancies housing inmates who are not restrained
need not be of one-hour fire-resistive construction when
not more than two stories in height. In no case shall indi¬
vidual floor areas exceed 3,000 square feet (279 m 2 ). The
fire-resistive protection of the exterior walls shall not be
less than one hour where such walls are located within 5
feet (1524 mm) of the property line. Openings within such
walls are not permitted. Openings in exterior nonrated
walls need not be protected.

R335.4 Interior finish provisions.

R335.4.1 Interior wall and ceiling finish. Group R-3.1
occupancies housing a bedridden client shall comply with
Interior Wall and Ceiling Finish requirements specified
for Group 1-2 occupancies in Table 803.11 of the Califor¬
nia Building Code.

R335.5 Fire protection system provisions.

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R335.5.1 Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R-3.1
occupancies. An automatic sprinkler system shall be
installed where required in Section R313.

Exceptions:

1. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to
Group R-3.1 occupancies not housing bedridden
clients, not housing nonambulatory clients above
the first floor, and not housing clients above the
second floor.

2. Existing Group R-3 occupancies converted to
Group R-3.1 occupancies housing only one bed¬
ridden client and complying with Section
R335.6.3.3.

3. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section
13113 existing occupancies housing ambulatory
children only, none of whom are mentally ill chil¬
dren or children with intellectual disabilities, and
the buildings or portions thereof in which such
children are housed are not more than two sto¬
ries in height, and buildings or portions thereof
housing such children have an automatic fire
alarm system activated by approved smoke detec-

4. Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section
13143.6 existing occupancies licensed for protec¬
tive social care which house ambulatory clients
only, none of whom is a child (under the age of 18
years), or who is elderly (65 years of age or over).

R335.5.2 Smoke alarms in Groups R-3.1 occupancies.
Smoke alarms shall be installed where required in Section
R314. In addition to the provisions set forth in Section
R314 the following shall apply:

1. Smoke alarms shall be provided throughout the hab¬
itable areas of the dwelling unit except kitchens.

2. Facilities housing a bedridden client:

2.1. Smoke alarms shall receive their primary power
from the building wiring when such wiring is
served from a commercial source and shall be
equipped with a battery backup.

2.2. Smoke alarms shall be electrically intercon¬
nected so as to cause all smoke alarms to sound
a distinctive alarm signal upon actuation of any
single smoke alarm. Such alarm signal shall be
audible throughout the facility at a minimal
level of 15 db above ambient noise level. These
devices need not be interconnected to any other
fire alarm device, have a control panel, or be
electrically supervised or provided with emer¬
gency power.

R335.5.2.1 Audible alarm signal. The audible signal
shall be the standard fire alarm evacuation signal,
ANSI S3.41 Audible Emergency Evacuation Signal,
“three pulse temporal pattern, ” as described in NFPA
72.

R335.5.2.2 Hearing impaired. See Section 907.5.2.3 of
the California Building Code.

R335.5.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm notification
appliances shall be provided in accordance with Sec¬
tions 907.5.2.3.1 through 907.5.2.3.5 of the California
Building Codes.

Exceptions:

1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not
required in alterations, except where an exist¬
ing fire alarm system is upgraded or replaced,
or a new fire alarm system is installed.

2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not
be required in enclosed exit stairways, exte¬
rior exit stairs, and exterior exit ramps.

3. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not
be required in elevator cars.

R335.5.2.4 Group R-3.1. Protective social care facili¬
ties which house persons who are hearing impaired,
shall be provided with notification appliances for the
hearing impaired installed in accordance with NFPA
72 and which shall activated upon initiation of the fire
alarm system or the smoke alarms.

Exception: The use of the existing evacuation sig¬
naling scheme shall be permitted where approved by
the enforcing agency.

R335.6 Means of egress provisions.

R335.6.1 General. In addition to the general means of
egress requirements of Chapter 10 of the California Build¬
ing Code, this section shall apply to Group R-3.1 occu¬
pancies.

R335.6.2 Number of exits.

R335.6.2.1. Group R-3.1 occupancies shall have a min¬
imum of two exits.

R335.6.3 Egress arrangements.

R335.6.3.1. Egress through adjoining dwelling units
shall not be permitted.

R335.6.3.2 Group R-3.1 occupancies housing nonam¬
bulatory clients. In a Group R-3.1 occupancy, bed¬
rooms used by nonambulatory clients shall have access
to at least one of the required exits which shall conform
to one of the following:

1. Egress through a hallway or area into a bedroom
in the immediate area which has an exit directly
to the exterior and the corridor/hallway is con¬
structed consistent with the dwelling unit interior
walls. The hallway shall be separated from com¬
mon areas by a solid wood door not less than l 3 / s
inch (35 mm) in thickness, maintained self-clos¬
ing or shall be automatic closing by actuation of
a smoke detector installed in accordance with
Section 716.5.9 of the California Building Code.

2. Egress through a hallway which has an exit
directly to the exterior. The hallway shall be sep¬
arated from the rest of the house by a wall con¬
structed consistent with the dwelling unit interior
walls and opening protected by a solid wood
door not less than l 3 / s inch (35 mm) in thickness,

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b. A large family day-care home shall not be subject to the
provisions of Division 13 (commencing with Section
21000) of the Public Resources Code.

c. Use of a single-family dwelling for the purposes of a
large family day-care home shall not constitute a
change of occupancy for purposes of Part 1.5 (com¬
mencing with Section 17910) of Division 13 (State
Housing Law), or for purposes of local building and
fire codes.

d. Large family day-care homes shall be considered as
single-family residences for the purposes of the State
Uniform Building Standards Code and local building
and fire codes, except with respect to any additional
standards specifically designed to promote the fire
and life safety of the children in these homes adopted
by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to this subdivi¬
sion.

R336.3 Smoke alarms. Large family day-care homes shall be
equipped with State Fire Marshal approved and listed single
station residential type smoke alarms. The number and place¬
ment of smoke alarms shall be determined by the enforcement
authority.

R336.4 Fire extinguishers. Large and small family day-care
homes shall be equipped with a portable fire extinguisher
having a minimum 2A10BC rating.

R336.5 Fire alarm devices. Every large family day-care
home shall be provided with at least one manual device at a
location approved by the authority having jurisdiction. Such
device shall actuate afire alarm signal, which shall be audi¬
ble throughout the facility at a minimum level of 15 db above
ambient noise level. These devices need not be interconnected
to any other fire alarm device, have a control panel or be
electrically supervised or provided with emergency power.
Such device or devices shall be attached to the structure and
may be of any type acceptable to the enforcing agent, pro¬
vided that such devices are distinctive in tone and are audible
throughout the structure.

R336.6 Compliance. Every large family day-care home shall
comply with the provisions for Group R-3 occupancies and, if
appropriate, Section R336.1. For the purposes of Section
R336.1, the first story shall be designated as the floor used
for residential occupancy nearest to the street level which
provides primary access to the building.

Enforcement of the provisions shall be in accordance with
the Health and Safety Code Sections 13145 and 13146. No
city, county, city and county, or district shall adopt or enforce
any building ordinance or local rule or regulation relating to
the subject of fire and life safety in large-family day-care
homes which is inconsistent with those standards adopted by
the State Fire Marshal, except to the extent the building ordi¬
nance or local rule or regulation applies to single-family res¬
idences in which day care is not provided.

R336.7 Special hazards. Every unenclosed gas-fired water
heater or furnace which is within the area used for child care

in a large family day-care home shall be protected in such a
way as to prevent children from making contact with those
appliances.

Exception: This does not apply to kitchen stoves or ovens.
R336.8 Exiting. Every story or basement of a large family
day-care home shall be provided with two exits which are
remotely located from each other. Every required exit shall
be of a size to permit the installation of a door not less than
32 inches (813mm) in clear width and not less than 6 feet 8
inches (2032 mm) in height. A manually operated horizon¬
tal sliding door may be used as one of the two required
exits.

Where basements are used for day-care purposes, one of
the two required exits shall provide access directly to the
exterior without entering the first story. The second exit from
the basement may either pass through the story above or exit
directly to the exterior.

Rooms used for day-care purposes shall not be located
above the first story.

Exception: Buildings equipped with an automatic sprin¬
kler system throughout and which have at least one of the
required exits providing access directly to the exterior.
NFPA 13R may be used in large family day-care homes.
The sprinkler omissions of NFPA 13R shall not apply
unless approved by the enforcing agency.

Exit doors, including manually operated horizontal sliding
doors, shall be openable from the inside without use of a key
or any special knowledge or effort.

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MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION
METHODS FOR EXTERIOR WILDFIRE EXPOSURE

SECTION R337.1

SCOPE, PURPOSE AND APPLICATION

R337.1.1 Scope. This chapter applies to building materi¬
als, systems and or assemblies used in the exterior design
and construction of new buildings located within a Wild¬
land-Urban Interface Fire Area as defined in Section
R337.2A.

R337.1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to estab¬
lish minimum standards for the protection of life and
property by increasing the ability of a building located in
any Fire Hazard Severity Zone within State Responsibility
Areas or any Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area to resist
the intrusion of flame or burning embers projected by a
vegetation fire and contributes to a systematic reduction in
conflagration losses.

R337.1.3 Application. New buildings located in any Fire
Hazard Severity Zone or any Wildland-Urban Interface
Fire Area designated by the enforcing agency constructed

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after the application date shall comply with the provisions
of this chapter.

Exceptions:

1. Buildings of an accessory character classified as
a Group U occupancy and not exceeding 120
square feet in floor area, when located at least 30
feet from an applicable building.

2. Buildings of an accessory character classified as
Group U occupancy of any size located least 50
feet from an applicable building.

3. Buildings classified as a Group U Agricultural
Building, as defined in Section 202 of this code
(see also Appendix C - Group U Agricultural
Buildings), when located at least 50 feet from an
applicable building.

4. Additions to and remodels of buildings originally
constructed prior to the applicable application
date.

For the purposes of this section and Section R337.10,
applicable building includes all buildings that have resi¬
dential, commercial, educational, institutional, or similar
occupancy type use.

R337.1.3.1 Application date and where required. New

buildings for which an application for a building per¬
mit is submitted on or after July 1, 2008 located in any
Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Wildland Interface Fire
Area shall comply with all sections of this chapter,
including all of the following areas:

1. All unincorporated lands designated by the State
Board of Forestry and Fire Protection as State
Responsibility Area (SRA) including:

1.1. Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones

1.2. High Fire Hazard Severity Zones

1.3. Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zones

2. Land designated as Very-High Fire Hazard
Severity Zone by cities and other local agencies.

3. Land designated as Wildland Interface Fire Area
by cities and other local agencies.

Exceptions:

1. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard
Severity Zone within State Responsibility
Areas, for which an application for a build¬
ing permit is submitted on or after January
1, 2008, shall comply with all sections of
this chapter.

2. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard
Severity Zone within State Responsibility
Areas or any Wildland Interface Fire Area
designated by cities and other local agen¬
cies for which an application for a building
permit is submitted on or after December 1,
2005 but prior to July 1, 2008, shall only
comply with the following sections of this
chapter:

2.1. Section R337.5 - Roofing

2.2. Section R337.6 - Vents

R337.1.4 Inspection and certification. Building permit
applications and final completion approvals for buildings
within the scope and application of this chapter shall com¬
ply with the following:

1. Building permit issuance. The local building official
shall, prior to construction, provide the owner or
applicant a certification that the building as pro¬
posed to be built complies with all applicable state
and local building standards, including those for
materials and construction methods for wildfire
exposure as described in this chapter. Issuance of a
building permit by the local building official for the
proposed building shall be considered as complying
with this section.

2. Building permit final. The local building official
shall, upon completion of construction, provide the
owner or applicant with a copy of the final inspec¬
tion report that demonstrates the building was con¬
structed in compliance with all applicable state and
local building standards, including those for materi¬
als and construction methods for wildfire exposure
as described in this chapter. Issuance of a certificate
of occupancy by the local building official for the
proposed building shall be considered as complying
with this section.

R337.1.5 Vegetation management compliance. Prior to
building permit final approval, the property shall be in
compliance with the vegetation management requirements
prescribed in California Fire Code Section 4906, includ¬
ing California Public Resources Code 4291 or California
Government Code Section 51182. Acceptable methods of
compliance inspection and documentation shall be deter¬
mined by the enforcing agency and shall be permitted to | |
include any of the following:

1. Local, state, or federal fire authority or designee
authorized to enforce vegetation management
requirements.

2. Enforcing agency.

3. Third party inspection and certification authorized
to enforce vegetation management requirements.

4. Property owner certification authorized by the
enforcing agency.

R337.1.6 Application to accessory buildings and miscel¬
laneous structures. New accessory buildings and miscel¬
laneous structures specified in Section R337.10 shall
comply only with the requirements of that section.

SECTION R337.2
DEFINITIONS

For the purposes of this chapter, certain terms are defined
below:

CDF DIRECTOR means the Director of the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

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EXTERIOR COVERING. The exposed siding or cladding
material applied to the exterior side of an exterior wall, roof
eave soffit, floor projection or exposed underfloor framing.
FIRE PROTECTION PLAN is a document prepared for a
specific project or development proposed for a Wildland-
Urban Interface Fire Area. It describes ways to minimize and
mitigate potential for loss from wildfire exposure. The fire
protection plan shall be in accordance with this chapter and
the California Fire Code, Chapter 49. When required by the
enforcing agency for the purposes of granting modifications,
a fire protection plan shall be submitted. Only locally
adopted ordinances that have been filed with the California
Building Standards Commission or the Department of Hous¬
ing and Community Development in accordance with Section
1.1.8 shall apply.

FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES are geographical
areas designated pursuant to California Public Resources
Codes Sections 4201 through 4204 and classified as Very-
High, High, or Moderate in State Responsibility Areas or as
Local Agency Very-High Fire Hazard Severity Zones desig¬
nated pursuant to California Government Code Sections
51175 through 51189. See California Fire Code Article 86.

The California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section
1280 entitles the maps of these geographical areas as “Maps
of the Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the State Responsibility
Area of California. ”

HEAVY TIMBER. A type of construction classification spec¬
ified in Section R602. For use in this chapter, heavy timber
shall be sawn lumber or glue laminated wood with the small¬
est minimum nominal dimension of 4 inches (102 mm). Heavy
timber walls or floors shall be sawn or glue-laminated planks
splined, tongue-and-grove, or set close together and well
spiked.

IGNITION-RESISTANT MATERIAL. A type of building
material that resists ignition or sustained flaming combustion
sufficiently so as to reduce losses from wildland-urban inter¬
face conflagrations under worst-case weather and fuel condi¬
tions with wildfire exposure of burning embers and small
flames, as prescribed in Section R337.3 and SFM Standard
12-7A-5, Ignition-Resistant Material.

LOCAL AGENCY VERY-HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVER¬
ITY ZONE means an area designated by a local agency upon
the recommendation of the CDF Director pursuant to Gov¬
ernment Code Sections 51177(c), 51178 and 5118 that is not
a state responsibility area and where a local agency, city,
county, city and county, or district is responsible for fire
protection.

LOG WALL CONSTRUCTION. A type of construction in
which exterior walls are constructed of solid wood members
and where the smallest horizontal dimension of each solid
wood member is at least 6 inches (152 mm).

RAFTER TAIL. The portion of roof rafter framing in a slop¬
ing roof assembly that projects beyond and overhangs an
exterior wall.

ROOF EAVE. The lower portion of a sloping roof assembly
that projects beyond and overhangs an exterior wall at the
lower end of the rafter tails. Roof eaves may be either “open”

or “enclosed. ” Open roof eaves have exposed rafter tails and
an unenclosed space on the underside of the roof deck.
Enclosed roof eaves have a boxed-in roof eave soffit with a
horizontal underside or sloping rafter tails with an exterior
covering applied to the underside of the rafter tails.

ROOF EAVE SOFFIT. An enclosed boxed-in soffit under a
roof eave with exterior covering material applied to the soffit
framing creating a horizontal surface on the exposed under¬
side.

STATE RESPONSIBILITY AREA means lands that are
classified by the Board of Forestry pursuant to Public
Resources Code Section 4125 where the financial responsi¬
bility of preventing and suppressing forest fires is primarily
the responsibility of the state.

WILDFIRE is any uncontrolled fire spreading through vege¬
tative fuels that threatens to destroy life, property or
resources as defined in Public Resources Code Sections 4103
and 4104.

WILDFIRE EXPOSURE is one or a combination of radiant
heat, convective heat, direct flame contact and burning
embers being projected by vegetation fire to a structure and
its immediate environment.

WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE FIRE AREA is a geo¬
graphical area identified by the state as a “Fire Hazard
Severity Zone” in accordance with the Public Resources
Code Sections 4201 through 4204 and Government Code
Sections 51175 through 51189, or other areas designated by
the enforcing agency to be at a significant risk from wildfires.

SECTION R337.3
STANDARDS OF QUALITY

R337.3.1 General. Building material, systems, assemblies
and methods of construction used in this chapter shall be
in accordance with Section R337.3.

R337.3.2 Qualification by testing. Material and material
assemblies tested in accordance with the requirements of
Section R337.3 shall be accepted for use when the results
and conditions of those tests are met. Product evaluation
testing of material and material assemblies shall be
approved or listed by the State Fire Marshal, or identified
in a current report issued by an approved agency.

R337.3.3 Approved agency. Product evaluation testing
shall be performed by an approved agency as defined in
Section 1702 of the California Building Code. The scope
of accreditation for the approved agency shall include
building product compliance with code.

R337.3.4 Labeling. Material and material assemblies
tested in accordance with the requirements of Section
R337.3 shall bear an identification label showing the fire
test results. That identification label shall be issued by a
testing and/or inspecting agency approved by the State
Fire Marshal.

1. Identification mark of the approved testing and/or
inspecting agency.

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2. Contact and identification information of the manu¬
facturer.

3. Model number or identification of the product or
material.

4. Pre-test weathering specified in this chapter.

5. Compliance standard as described under Section
R337.3.7.

R337.3.5 Weathering and surface treatment protection.
R337.3.5.1 General. Material and material assemblies
tested in accordance with the requirements of Section
R337.3 shall maintain their fire test performance under
conditions of use when installed in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions.

R337.3.5.2 Weathering. Fire-retardant-treated wood
and fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and shakes
shall meet the fire test performance requirements of
this chapter after being subjected to the weathering
conditions contained in the following standards, as
applicable to the materials and the conditions of use.
R337.3.5.2.1 Fire-retardant-treated wood. Fire-
retardant-treated wood shall be tested in accor¬
dance with ASTM D2898 (Method A), and the
requirements of Section 2303.2 of the California
Building Code.

R337.3.5.2.2 Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles
and shakes. Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles
and shakes shall be approved and listed by the State
Fire Marshal in accordance with Section 208(c),
Title 19 California Code of Regulations.

R337.3.5.3 Surface treatment protection. The use of
paints, coatings, stains, or other surface treatments are
not an approved method of protection as required in
this section.

R337.3.6 Alternates for materials, design, tests and meth¬
ods of construction. The enforcing agency is permitted to
modify the provisions of this chapter for site-specific con¬
ditions in accordance with Section 1.11.2.4. When
required by the enforcing agency for the purposes of
granting modifications, afire protection plan shall be sub¬
mitted in accordance with the California Fire Code,
Chapter 49.

R337.3.7 Standards of quality. The State Fire Marshal
standards for exterior wildfire exposure protection listed
below and as referenced in this chapter are located in the
California Referenced Standards Code, Part 12 and
Chapter 44 of this code.

SFM Standard 12-7A-1, Exterior Wall Siding and
Sheathing. A fire resistance test standard consisting of
a 150 kW intensity direct flame exposure for a 10 min¬
utes duration.

SFM Standard 12-7A-2, Exterior Windows. A fire
resistance test standard consisting of a 150 kW inten¬
sity direct flame exposure for an 8-minute duration.
SFM Standard 12-7A-3, Horizontal Projection Under¬
side A fire resistance test standard consisting of a 300

kW intensity direct flame exposure for a 10 minute
duration.

SFM Standard 12-7A-4, Decking. A two-part test con¬
sisting of a heat release rate (Part A) deck assembly
combustion test with an under deck exposure of 80 kW
intensity direct flame for a 3 minute duration, and a
(Part B) sustained deck assembly combustion test con¬
sisting of a deck upper surface burning ember exposure
with a 12 mph wind for 40 minutes using a 2.2 lb (1 kg)
burning “Class A” size 12” x 12” x 2.25” (300 mmx
300 mm x 57 mm) roof test brand.

SFM Standard 12-7A-4A, Decking Alternate Method
A. A heat release rate deck assembly combustion test
with an under deck exposure of 80 kW intensity direct
flame for a 3 minute duration.

SFM Standard 12-7A-5, Ignition-Resistant Material. A
generic building material surface burning flame spread
test standard consisting of an extended 30 minute
ASTM E84 or UL 723 test method as is used for Fire-
Retardant-Treated wood.

ASTM D2898, Standard Practice for Accelerated
Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire
Testing

ASTM D3909/D3909M, Standard Specification for
Asphalt Roll Roofing (Glass Felt) Surfaced with Min¬
eral Granules

ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning
Characteristics of Building Materials

ASTM E2632/E2632M, Standard Test Method for Eval¬
uating the Under-Deck Fire Test Response of Deck
Materials

ASTM E2707, Standard Test Method for Determining
Fire Penetration of Exterior Wall Assemblies Using a
Direct Flame Impingement Exposure

ASTM E2726/E2726M, Standard Test Method for Eval¬
uating the Fire-Test-Response of Deck Structures to
Burning Brands

ASTM E2886/E2886M, Standard Test Method for Eval¬
uating the Ability of Exterior Vents to Resist the Entry
of Embers and Direct Flame Impingement

ASTM E2957, Standard Test Method for Resistance to
Wildfire Penetration of Eaves, Soffits and Other Pro¬
jections

NFPA 257, Standard on Fire Test for Window and
Glass Block Assemblies

UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Charac¬
teristics of Building Materials

SECTION R337.4

IGNITION-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION \ \

R337.4.1 General. The materials prescribed herein for
ignition resistance shall conform to the requirements of
this chapter.

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R337.4.2 Ignition-resistant materials. Ignition-resistant
materials shall comply with one of the following:

1. The requirements in Section R337.4.3 when tested in
accordance with the test procedures set forth in
ASTM E84 or UL 723,

2. The test procedures and requirements set forth in
SFM Standard 12-7A-5 “Ignition-Resistant Mate-

3. One of the alternative methods in Section R337.4.4.
R337.4.3 Conditions of acceptance for ignition-resistant
material tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL
723. A material shall comply with the conditions of accep¬
tance in 1 and 2 below when the test is continued for an
additional 20-minute period, meaning for a total test
period of an “extended ” 30-minute test period.

1. The material shall exhibit a flame spread index not
exceeding 25 and shall show no evidence of pro¬
gressive combustion following the extended 30-min-
ute test period.

2. The material shall exhibit a flame front that does not
progress more than 10 1 / 2 feet (3200 mm) beyond the
centerline of the burner at any time during the
extended 30-minute test period.

R337.4.4 Alternative methods for determining ignition-
resistant material. Any one of the following shall be
accepted as meeting the definition of ignition-resistant mate¬
rial:

1. Noncombustible material. Material that complies
with the definition for noncombustible materials in
Section 202.

2. Fire-retardant-treated wood. Fire-retardant-treated
wood identified for exterior use that complies with
the requirements of Section 2303.2 of the California
Building Code.

3. Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and shakes.
Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and shakes, as
defined in Section 1505.6 of the California Building
Code and listed by State Fire Marshal for use as
“Class B” roof covering, shall be accepted as an
Ignition-resistant wall covering material when
installed over solid sheathing.

SECTION R337.5
ROOFING

R337.5.1 General. Roofs shall comply with the require¬
ments of Sections R337 and R902. Roofs shall have a roof¬
ing assembly installed in accordance with its listing and
the manufacturer's installation instructions.

R337.5.2 Roof coverings. Where the roof profile allows a
space between the roof covering and roof decking, the
spaces shall be constructed to resist the intrusion of flames
and embers, be firestopped with approved materials or have
one layer of minimum 72 pound (32.4 kg) mineral-surfaced
nonperforated cap sheet complying with ASTM D3909
installed over the combustible decking.

R337.5.3 Roof valleys. Where valley flashing is installed,
the flashing shall be not less than 0.019-inch (0.48 mm)

No. 26 gage galvanized sheet corrosion-resistant metal
installed over not less than one layer of minimum 72-
pound (32.4 kg) mineral-surfaced nonperforated cap sheet
complying with ASTM D3909, at least 36-inch-wide (914 | |
mm) running the full length of the valley.

R337.5.4 Roof gutters. Roof gutters shall be provided with
the means to prevent the accumulation of leaves and
debris in the gutter.

SECTION R337.6
VENTS

R337.6.1 General. Where provided, ventilation openings
for enclosed attics, enclosed eave soffit spaces, enclosed
rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applied directly
to the underside of roof rafters, and underfloor ventila¬
tion shall be in accordance with Section 1203 of the Cal¬
ifornia Building Code and Sections R337.6.1 through
R337.6.3 of this section to resist building ignition from
the intrusion of burning embers and flame through the
ventilation opening.

R337.6.2 Requirements. Ventilation openings for enclosed
attics, enclosed eave soffit spaces, enclosed rafter spaces
formed where ceilings are applied directly to the underside
of roof rafters, and underfloor ventilation openings shall be
fully covered with metal wire mesh, vents, other materials,
or other devices that meet one of the following require¬
ments:

1. Vents shall be listed to ASTM E2886 and comply

with all of the following:

1.1. There shall be no flaming ignition of the cotton
material during the Ember Intrusion Test.

1.2. There shall be no flaming ignition during the
Integrity Test portion of the Flame Intrusion
Test.

1.3. The maximum temperature of the unexposed I I
side of the vent shall not exceed 662°F (350°C).

2. Vents shall comply with all of the following: j j

2.1. The dimensions of the openings therein shall be
a minimum of /,, inch (1.6 mm) and shall not
exceed 1 / s inch (3.2 mm).

2.2. The materials used shall be noncombustible.

Exception: Vents located under the roof cov¬
ering, along the ridge of roofs, with the
exposed surface of the vent covered by non¬
combustible wire mesh, may be of combustible
materials.

2.3. The materials used shall be corrosion resistant.
R337.6.3 Ventilation openings on the underside of eaves
and cornices. Vents shall not be installed on the underside
of eaves and cornices.

Exceptions:

1. Vents listed to ASTM E2886 and complying with
all of the following: j |

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1.1. There shall be no flaming ignition of the cot¬
ton material during the Ember Intrusion
Test.

1.2. There shall be no flaming ignition during the
Integrity Test portion of the Flame Intrusion
Test.

1.3. The maximum temperature of the unexposed
side of the vent shall not exceed 662°F
(350°C).

2. The enforcing agency shall be permitted to
accept or approve special eave and cornice vents
that resist the intrusion of flame and burning
embers.

3. Vents complying with the requirements of Section
R337.6.2 shall be permitted to be installed on the
underside of eaves and cornices in accordance
with either one of the following conditions:

3.1. The attic space being ventilated is fully pro¬
tected by an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 of the California Building Code
or,

3.2. The exterior wall covering and exposed
underside of the eave are of noncombustible
material, or ignition-resistant materials, as
determined in accordance with SFM Stan¬
dard 12-7A-5 Ignition-Resistant Material the
requirements of Section R337.4.3, and the
vent is located more than 12 feet (3.66 m)
from the ground or walking surface of a
deck, porch, patio, or similar surface.

SECTION R337.7
EXTERIOR COVERING

R337.7.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall gov¬
ern the materials and construction methods used to resist
building ignition and/or safeguard against the intrusion of
flames resulting from small ember and short-term direct
flame contact exposure.

R337.7.2 General. The following exterior covering mate¬
rials and/or assemblies shall comply with this section:

1. Exterior wall covering material.

2. Exterior wall assembly.

3. Exterior exposed underside of roof eave overhangs.

4. Exterior exposed underside of roof eave soffits.

5. Exposed underside of exterior porch ceilings.

2. Roof or wall top cornice projections and similar
assemblies.

3. Roof assembly projections over gable end walls.

4. Solid wood rafter tails and solid wood blocking
installed between rafters having minimum dimen¬
sion 2 inch (50.8 mm) nominal.

5. Deck walking surfaces shall comply with Section
R337.9 only.

R337.7.3 Exterior walls. The exterior wall covering or
wall assembly shall comply with one of the following
requirements:

1. Noncombustible material.

2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. Heavy timber exterior wall assembly.

4. Log wall construction assembly.

5. Wall assemblies that have been tested in accordance | |
with the test procedures for a 10-minute direct flame
contact exposure test set forth in ASTM E2707 with
the conditions of acceptance shown in Section
R337.7.3.1.

6. Wall assemblies that meet the performance criteria
in accordance with the test procedures for a 10-min-
ute direct flame contact exposure test set forth in
SFM Standard 12-7A-1.

Exception: Any of the following shall be deemed to
meet the assembly performance criteria and intent of
this section:

1. One layer of 5 / s -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind the exterior covering or cladding
on the exterior side of the framing.

2. The exterior portion of a 1 -hour fire resistive
exterior wall assembly designed for exterior fire
exposure including assemblies using the gypsum
panel and sheathing products listed in the Gyp¬
sum Association Fire Resistance Design Manual.

R337.7.3.1 Conditions of acceptance when tested in
accordance with ASTM E2707. The ASTM E2707 test
shall be conducted on a minimum of three test speci¬
mens and the conditions of acceptance in 1 and 2 below
shall be met. If any one of the three tests does not meet
the conditions of acceptance, three additional tests
shall be run. All of the additional tests shall meet the
conditions of acceptance.

1. Absence of flame penetration through the wall
assembly at any time.

2. Absence of evidence of glowing combustion on
the interior surface of the assembly at the end of
the 70-minute test.

R337.7.3.2 Extent of exterior wall covering. Exterior
wall coverings shall extend from the top of the founda¬
tion to the roof, and terminate at 2 inch (50.8 mm) nomi¬
nal solid wood blocking between rafters at all roof
overhangs, or in the case of enclosed eaves, terminate at
the enclosure.

6. Exterior exposed underside of floor projections.

7. Exterior underfloor areas.

Exceptions:

1. Exterior wall architectural trim, embellishments,
fascias and gutters.

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R337.7.4 Open roof eaves. The exposed roof deck on the
underside of unenclosed roof eaves shall consist of one of
the following:

1. Noncombustible material.

2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. One layer of 5 / g -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind an exterior covering on the under¬
side exterior of the roof deck.

4. The exterior portion of a 1-hour fire resistive exte¬
rior wall assembly applied to the underside of the
roof deck designed for exterior fire exposure includ¬
ing assemblies using the gypsum panel and sheath¬
ing products listed in the Gypsum Association Fire
Resistance Design Manual.

Exceptions: The following materials do not require
protection:

1. Solid wood rafter tails on the exposed underside
of open roof eaves having a minimum nominal
dimension of 2 inch (50.8 mm).

2. Solid wood blocking installed between rafter tails
on the exposed underside of open roof eaves hav¬
ing a minimum nominal dimension of 2 inch (50.8
mm).

3. Gable end overhangs and roof assembly projec¬
tions beyond an exterior wall other than at the
lower end of the rafter tails.

4. Fascia and other architectural trim boards.
R337.7.5 Enclosed roof eaves and roof eave soffits. The
exposed underside of enclosed roof eaves having either a
boxed-in roof eave soffit with a horizontal underside, or
sloping rafter tails with an exterior covering applied to the
underside of the rafter tails, shall be protected by one of
the following:

1. Noncombustible material.

2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. One layer of 5 / s -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind an exterior covering on the under¬
side of the rafter tails or soffit.

4. The exterior portion of a 1 -hour fire resistive exterior
wall assembly applied to the underside of the rafter
tails or soffit including assemblies using the gypsum
panel and sheathing products listed in the Gypsum
Association Fire Resistance Design Manual.

5. Boxed-in roof eave soffit assemblies with a horizon¬
tal underside that meet the performance criteria in
Section R337.7.10 when tested in accordance with
the test procedures set forth in ASTM E2957.

6. Boxed-in roof eave soffit assemblies with a horizon¬
tal underside that meet the performance criteria in
accordance with the test procedures set forth in
SFM Standard 12-7A-3.

Exceptions: The following materials do not require
protection:

1. Gable end overhangs and roof assembly projec¬
tions beyond an exterior wall other than at the
lower end of the rafter tails.

2. Fascia and other architectural trim boards.
R337.7.6 Exterior porch ceilings. The exposed underside
of exterior porch ceilings shall be protected by one of the
following:

1. Noncombustible material.

2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. One layer of s / 8 -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind the exterior covering on the under¬
side of the ceiling.

4. The exterior portion of a 1-hour fire resistive exterior
wall assembly applied to the underside of the ceiling
assembly including assemblies using the gypsum
panel and sheathing products listed in the Gypsum
Association Fire Resistance Design Manual.

5. Porch ceiling assemblies with a horizontal under¬
side that meet the performance criteria in Section
R337.7.10 when tested in accordance with the test
procedures set forth in ASTM E2957.

6. Porch ceiling assemblies with a horizontal under¬
side that meet the performance criteria in accor¬
dance with the test procedures set forth in SFM
Standard 12-7A-3.

Exception: Architectural trim boards.

R337.7.7 Floor projections. The exposed underside of a
cantilevered floor projection where a floor assembly
extends over an exterior wall shall be protected by one of
the following:

1. Noncombustible material.

2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. One layer of 5 / s -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind an exterior covering on the under¬
side of the floor projection.

4. The exterior portion of a 1-hour fire resistive exte¬
rior wall assembly applied to the underside of the
floor projection including assemblies using the gyp¬
sum panel and sheathing products listed in the Gyp¬
sum Association Fire Resistance Design Manual.

5. The underside of a floor projection assembly that
meet the performance criteria in Section R337.7.10
when tested in accordance with the test procedures
set forth in ASTM E2957.

6. The underside of a floor projection assembly that
meet the performance criteria in accordance with the
test procedures set forth in SFM Standard 12-7A-3.

Exception: Architectural trim boards.

R337.7.8 Underfloor protection. The underfloor area of
elevated or overhanging buildings shall be enclosed to
grade in accordance with the requirements of this chapter
or the underside of the exposed underfloor shall consist of
one of the following:

1. Noncombustible material.

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2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. One layer of 5 / s -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind an exterior covering on the under¬
side of the floor projection.

4. The exterior portion of a 1-hour fire resistive exte¬
rior wall assembly applied to the underside of the
floor including assemblies using the gypsum panel
and sheathing products listed in the Gypsum Associ¬
ation Fire Resistance Design Manual.

5. The underside of a floor assembly that meets the
performance criteria in Section R337.7.10 when
tested in accordance with the test procedures set
forth in ASTME2957.

6. The underside of a floor assembly that meets the
performance criteria in accordance with the test
procedures set forth in SFM Standard 12-7A-3.

Exception: Heavy-timber structural columns and

beams do not require protection.

R337.7.9 Underside of appendages. When required by
the enforcing agency the underside of overhanging
appendages shall be enclosed to grade in accordance
with the requirements of this chapter or the underside of
the exposed underfloor shall consist of one of the follow¬
ing:

1. Noncombustible material.

2. Ignition-resistant material.

3. One layer of 5 / s -inch Type X gypsum sheathing
applied behind an exterior covering on the under¬
side of the floor projection.

5. The underside of a floor assembly that meets the
performance criteria in accordance with the test
procedures set forth in either of the following:

5.1. SFM Standard 12-7A-3; or

5.2. ASTME2957

Exception: Heavy-timber structural columns and

beams do not require protection.

R337.7.10 Conditions of acceptance when tested in
accordance with ASTM E2957. The test shall be con¬
ducted on a minimum of three test specimens and the con¬
ditions of acceptance in 1 through 3 below shall be met. If
any one of the three tests does not meet the conditions of
acceptance, three additional tests shall be run. All of the
additional tests shall meet the conditions of acceptance.

1. Absence of flame penetration of the eaves or hori¬
zontal projection assembly at any time.

2. Absence of structural failure of the eaves or hori¬
zontal projection subassembly at any time.

3. Absence of sustained combustion of any kind at the
conclusion of the 40-minute test.

SECTION R337.8

EXTERIOR WINDOWS, SKYLIGHTS AND DOORS

R337.8.1 General. I I

R337.8.2 Exterior glazing. The following exterior glazing \ \
materials and/or assemblies shall comply with this sec¬
tion:

1. Exterior windows.

2. Exterior glazed doors.

3. Glazed openings within exterior doors.

4. Glazed openings within exterior garage doors.

5. Exterior structural glass veneer.

6. Skylights.

7. Vents.

R337.8.2.1 Exterior windows, skylights and exterior
glazed door assembly requirements. Exterior windows,
skylights and exterior glazed door assemblies shall | |
comply with one of the following requirements:

1. Be constructed of multipane glazing with a mini¬
mum of one tempered pane meeting the require¬
ments of Section R308 Safety Glazing, or

2. Be constructed of glass block units, or

3. Have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 20
minutes when tested according to NFPA 257, or

4. Be tested to meet the performance requirements
of SFM Standard 12-7A-2.

R337.8.2.2 Structural glass veneer. The wall assembly
behind structural glass veneer shall comply with Sec¬
tion R337.7.3.

R337.8.3 Exterior doors. Exterior doors shall comply with
one of the following:

1. The exterior surface or cladding shall be of noncom¬
bustible material, or

2. The exterior surface or cladding shall be of ignition- II
resistant material, or

3. The exterior door shall be constructed of solid core | |
wood that complies with the following requirements:

3.1. Stiles and rails shall not be less than l 3 / s inches | |
thick

3.2. Panels shall not be less than l’/ 4 inches thick, I I
except for the exterior perimeter of the panel
that shall be permitted to taper to a tongue not I I
less than 3 / 8 inch thick.

4. The exterior door assembly shall have a fire-resis- I I
tance rating of not less than 20 minutes when tested
according to NFPA 252.

5. The exterior surface or cladding shall be tested to
meet the performance requirements of Section
R337.7.3.1 when tested in accordance with ASTM
E2707.

6. The exterior surface or cladding shall be tested to
meet the performance requirements of SFM Stan¬
dard 12-7A-1.

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R337.8.3.1 Exterior door glazing. Glazing in exterior

doors shall comply with Section R337.8.2.1.

R337.8.4 Weather stripping. Exterior garage doors shall
be provided with weather stripping to resist the intrusion
of embers from entering through gaps between doors and
door openings when visible gabs exceed l / s -inch (3.2 mm).
Weather stripping or seals shall be installed on the bot¬
tom, sides, and tops of doors to reduce gaps between
doors and door openings to 'fi-inch (3.2 mm) or less.

SECTION R337.9
DECKING

R337.9.1 General. The walking surface material of decks,
porches, balconies and stairs shall comply with the
requirements of this section.

R337.9.2 Where required. The walking surface material
of decks, porches, balconies and stairs shall comply with
the requirements of this section when any portion of such
surface is within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the building.
R337.9.3 Decking surfaces. The walking surface material
of decks, porches, balconies and stairs shall be con¬
structed with one of the following materials:

1. Material that complies with the performance
requirements of Section R337.9.4 when tested in
accordance with both ASTM E2632 and ASTM
E2726.

2. Ignition-resistant material that complies with the
performance requirements of Section R337.4.3 when
tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

3. Material that complies with the performance
requirements of both SFM Standard 12-7A-4 and
SFM Standard 12-7A-5.

4. Exterior fire retardant treated wood.

5. Noncombustible material.

6. Any material that complies with the performance
requirements of SFM Standard 12-7A-4A when
attached exterior wall covering is also composed of
noncombustible or ignition-resistant material.

Exception: Wall material may be of any material
that otherwise complies with this chapter when
the decking surface material complies with the
performance requirements ASTM E84 with a
Class B flame spread rating.

7. Any material that complies with the performance
requirements of Section R337.9.5 when tested in
accordance with ASTM E2632 and when attached
exterior wall covering is also composed of only non¬
combustible or ignition-resistant materials.

Exception: Wall material shall be permitted to be
of any material that otherwise complies with this
chapter when the decking surface material com¬
plies with the performance requirements ASTM
E84 with a Class B flame spread index.

R337.9.4 Requirements for type of ignition-resistant
material in Section R337.9.3, Item 1. The material shall

be tested in accordance with both ASTM E2632 and ASTM
E2726 and shall comply with the conditions of acceptance
in Sections R337.9.4.1 and R337.9.4.2. The material shall
also be tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723
and comply with the performance requirements of Section
R337.4.3.

R337.9.4.1 Conditions of acceptance for ASTM
E2632. The ASTM E2632 test shall be conducted on a
minimum of three test specimens and the conditions of
acceptance in Items 1 through 3 below shall be met. If
any one of the three tests does not meet the conditions
of acceptance, three additional tests shall be run. All of
the additional tests shall meet the conditions of accep¬
tance.

1. Peak heat release rate of less than or equal to 25
kW/fi 2 (269 kW/m 2 ).

2. Absence of sustained flaming or glowing combus¬
tion of any kind at the conclusion of the 40-minute
observation period.

3. Absence of falling particles that are still burning
when reaching the burner or floor.

R337.9.4.2 Conditions of acceptance for ASTM
E2726. The ASTM E2726 test shall be conducted on a
minimum of three test specimens and the conditions of
acceptance in Items 1 and 2 below shall be met. If any
one of the three test specimens does not meet the condi¬
tions of acceptance, three additional tests shall be run.
All of the additional tests shall meet the conditions of
acceptance.

1. Absence of sustained flaming or glowing combus¬
tion of any kind at the conclusion of the 40-min¬
ute observation period.

2. Absence of falling particles that are still burning
when reaching the burner or floor.

R337.9.5 Requirements for type of ignition-resistant
material in Section R337.9.3, Item 6. The material shall
be tested in accordance with ASTM E2632 and shall com¬
ply with the following condition of acceptance. The ASTM
E2632 test shall be conducted on a minimum of three test
specimens and the peak heat release rate shall be less than
or equal to 25 kW/fi 2 (269 kW/m 2 ). If any one of the three
tests does not meet the conditions of acceptance, three
additional tests shall be run. All of the additional tests
shall meet the condition of acceptance.

SECTION R337.10
ACCESSORY STRUCTURES

R337.10.1 General. Accessory buildings and miscella¬
neous structures defined in this section that have the
potential to pose a significant exterior fire exposure haz¬
ard to applicable buildings during wildfires shall be con¬
structed to conform to the requirements of this section.
R337.10.2 Applicability. The provisions of this section
shall apply to the buildings covered by Section R337.1.3
Exception 1. This section shall also apply to specified
attached and detached miscellaneous structures that

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require a building permit, including but not limited to;
trellises, arbors, patio covers, carports, gazebos, and sim¬
ilar structures.

Exceptions:

1. Decks shall comply with the requirements of Sec¬
tion R337.9.

2. Awnings and canopies shall comply with the
requirements of Section 3105 of the California
Building Code.

3. Exterior wall architectural trim, embellishments,
andfascias.

4. Roof- or wall-top cornice projections and similar
assemblies.

R337.10.3 Where required. No requirements shall apply
to accessory buildings or miscellaneous structures when
located at least 50 feet from an applicable building. Appli¬
cable accessory buildings and attached miscellaneous
structures, or detached miscellaneous structures that are
installed at a distance of less than 3 feet from an applica¬
ble building, shall comply with this section. When required
by the enforcing agency, detached miscellaneous struc¬
tures that are installed at a distance of more than 3 feet
but less than 50 feet from an applicable building shall
comply with the requirements of this section.

R337.10.3.1 Accessory building requirements. Appli¬
cable accessory buildings that are less than 120 square
feet in floor area and are located more than 30 feet but
less than 50 feet from an applicable building shall be
constructed of noncombustible materials or of ignition-
resistant materials as described in Section R337.4.2.

R337.10.3.2 Attached miscellaneous structure
requirements. Applicable miscellaneous structures that
are attached to, or installed at a distance of less than 3
feet from, an applicable building shall be constructed
of noncombustible materials or of ignition-resistant
materials as described in Section R337.4.2.

R337.10.3.3 Detached miscellaneous structure
requirements. When required by the enforcing agency,
applicable detached miscellaneous structures that are
installed at a distance of more than 3 feet but less than
50 feet from an applicable building shall be con¬
structed of noncombustible materials or of ignition-
resistant materials as described in Section R337.4.3.

SECTION R338
ELECTRIC VEHICLE

R338.1 Electric vehicle. An automotive-type vehicle for high¬
way use, such as passenger automobiles, buses, trucks, vans
and the like, primarily powered by an electric motor that
draws current from a rechargeable storage battery, fuel cell,
photovoltaic array or other source of electric current. For the
purpose of this chapter, electric motorcycles and similar type
vehicles and off-road self-propelled electric vehicles such as
industrial trucks, hoists, lifts, transports, golf carts, airline

ground support equipment, tractors, boats and the like, are
not included.

R338.2 Charging. In any building or interior area used for
charging electric vehicles, electrical equipment shall be
installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
R338.3 Ventilation. Mechanical exhaust ventilation, when
required by the California Electrical Code shall be provided
at a rate as required by Article 625 or as required by Section
1203 of the California Building Code whichever is greater.
The ventilation system shall include both the supply and
exhaust equipment and shall be permanently installed and
located to intake supply air from the outdoors, and vent the
exhaust directly to, the outdoors without conducting the
exhaust air through other spaces within the building.

Exception: Positive pressure ventilation systems shall
only be allowed in buildings or areas that have been
designed and approved for that application.

R338.4 Electrical interface. The electrical supply circuit to
electrically powered mechanical ventilation equipment shall
be interlocked with the recharging equipment used to supply
the vehicle(s) being charged, and shall remain energized
during the entire charging cycle. Electric vehicle recharging
equipment shall be marked or labeled in accordance with the
California Electrical Code.

Exceptions:

1. Exhaust ventilation shall not be required in areas
with an approved engineered ventilation system,
which maintains a hydrogen gas concentration at
less than 25 percent of the lower flammability limit.

2. Mechanical exhaust ventilation for hydrogen shall
not be required where the charging equipment uti¬
lized is installed and listed for indoor charging of
electric vehicles without ventilation.

SECTION R340
POLLUTANT CONTROL

R340.1 Finish material pollutant control. Finish materials
including adhesives, sealants, caulks, paints and coatings,
aerosol paints and coatings, carpet systems, carpet cushion,
carpet adhesive, resilient flooring systems and composite
wood products shall meet the volatile organic compound
(VOC) emission limits in accordance with the California
Green Building Standards Code, Chapter 4, Division 4.5.

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REFERENCED STANDARDS

ASTM—continued

D4897/D4897M—01 (2009)
D4990—97a (2005)e01
D5019—07a

D5055—2013
D5456—2013
D5516—09

D5643/D5643M—06
(2012)el
D5664—10

D5665—99a (2006)
D5726—98 (2005)

D6083—05e01
D6162—2000a (2008)
D6163—00 (2008)
D6164/D6164M—11
D6222/D6222M—11

D6223/D6223M—02

(2011)el

D6298—05el

D6305—08

D6380—03 (2009)
D6694—08

D6754/D6745M—10
D6757—2013

D6841—08

D6878/D6878—1 la
D6947—07

D7032—10a

D7158—D7158M—2011

D7254—07
D7425/D7425M—11
D7672—2012

D7793—13
E84—2016

E96/E96M—2013

El08—2011
El 19—2012a

E136—2012
E283—04

E330—02

Specification for Asphalt Coated Glass-fiber Venting Base Sheet Used in Roofing.Table R905.9.2

Specification for Coal Tar Glass Felt Used in Roofing and Waterproofing.Table R905.9.2

Specification for Reinforced Nonvulcanized Polymeric

Sheet Used in Roofing Membrane.R905.12.2

Specification for Establishing and Monitoring Structural

Capacities of Prefabricated Wood I-joists.R502.1.2

Standard Specification for Evaluation of Structural

Composite Lumber Products.R502.1.5, R602.1.5, R802.1.7

Test Method for Evaluating the Flexural Properties of Fire-retardant-treated

Softwood Plywood Exposed to the Elevated Temperatures.R802.1.5.7

Specification for Coal Tar Roof Cement Asbestos-free.Table R905.9.2

Test Methods For Evaluating the Effects of Fire-retardant Treatments and Elevated

Temperatures on Strength Properties of Fire-retardant-treated Lumber.R802.1.5.7

Specification for Thermoplastic Fabrics Used in Cold-applied

Roofing and Waterproofing.Table R905.9.2

Specification for Thermoplastic Fabrics Used in Hot-applied

Roofing and Waterproofing.Table R905.9.2

Specification for Liquid-applied Acrylic Coating Used in Roofing.Table R905.9.2, Table R905.11.2,

Table R905.14.3, R905.15.2

Specification for Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous Sheet

Materials Using a Combination of Polyester and Glass Fiber Reinforcements.Table R905.11.2

Specification for Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous Sheet

Materials Using Glass Fiber Reinforcements.Table R905.11.2

Specification for Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous

Sheet Materials Using Polyester Reinforcements.Table R905.11.2

Specification for Atactic Polypropylene (APP) Modified Bituminous

Sheet Materials Using Polyester Reinforcements.Table R905.11.2

Specification for Atactic Polypropylene (APP) Modified Bituminous

Sheet Materials Using a Combination of Polyester and Glass Fiber Reinforcement.Table R905.11.2

Specification for Fiberglass-reinforced Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS)

Modified Bituminous Sheets with a Factory Applied Metal Surface.Table R905.11.2

Practice for Calculating Bending Strength Design Adjustment Factors for

Fire-retardant-treated Plywood Roof Sheathing.R802.1.5.6

Standard Specification for Asphalt Roll Roofing (Organic Felt).Table R905.1.1(1), R905.2.8.2, R905.5.4

Standard Specification for Liquid-applied Silicone Coating Used in Spray

Polyurethane Foam Roofing Systems.Table R905.14.3, R905.15.2

Standard Specification for Ketone-ethylene-ester-based Sheet Roofing.R905.13.2

Standard Specification for Inorganic Underlayment for

Use with Steep Slope Roofing Products.Table R905.1.1(1), R905.1.1, R905.16.3, R905.16.4.2

Standard Practice for Calculating Design Value Treatment Adjustment

Factors for Fire-retardant-treated Lumber.R802.1.5.7

Standard Specification for Thermoplastic-polyolefin-based Sheet Roofing.R905.13.2

Standard Specification for Liquid Applied Moisture Cured Polyurethane Coating

Used in Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing System.Table R905.14.3, R905.15.2

Standard Specification for Establishing Performance Ratings for Wood-plastic

Composite Deck Boards and Guardrail Systems (Guards or Handrails). . . R507.3, R507.3.1, 507.3.4, 507.3.4
Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Sealed Asphalt Shingles

(Uplift Force/Uplift Resistance Method).R905.2.4.1, Table R905.2.4.1

Standard Specification for Polypropylene (PP) siding.Table R703.3(l), R703.14

Standard Specification for Spray Polyurethane Foam Used for Roofing Application.R905.14.2

Standard Specification for Evaluating Structural Capacities

of Rim Board Products and Assemblies.R502.1.7, R602.1.7, R802.1.7

Standard Specification for Insulated Vinyl Siding.R703.13, Table R703.3(l)

Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials .R202, R302.9.3, R302.9.4, | |

R302.10.1, R302.10.2, R316.3, R316.5.9, R316.5.11,
R337.9.3, R507.3.2, R802.1.5, M1601.3, M1601.5.2

Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials.R202, Table R610.3.1,

M1411.6 M1601.4.6

Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings.R302.2.2, R902.1

Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials.Table R302.1(l), Table R302.1(2),

R302.2, R302.2.2, R302.3, R302.4.1, R302.11.1

Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C.R202, R302.11

Test Method for Determining the Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows,

Curtain Walls and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen.N1102.4.5

Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows,

Curtain Walls and Doors by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.R609.4, R609.5, R612.4, R703.1.2

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

515

REFERENCED STANDARDS

E1509—12
E1602—03 (2010)el
E1827—11

Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights,

Doors and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.R703.1.1

Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization.N1102.4.1.2

Test Method for Fire Tests of Through-penetration Firestops.R302.4.1.2

Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Exposed Attic Floor Insulation

Using a Radiant Fleat Energy Source.R302.10.5

Standard Specification for Room Heaters, Pellet Fuel-burning Type.M1410.1

Guide for Construction of Solid Fuel Burning Masonry Heaters.R1002.2

Standard Test Methods for Determining Airtightness of Building Using

an Orifice Blower Door.N1102.4.1.2

Test Method for Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, Doors
and Storm Shutters Impacted by Missile(s) and Exposed

to Cyclic Pressure Differentials.R301.2.1.2, R609.6.1

Standard Specification for Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain
Walls, Doors and Impact Protective Systems Impacted by

Windbome Debris in Hurricanes.R301.2.1.2, R301.2.1.2.1, R609.6.1

Standard Test Method for Air Permeance of Building Materials.R202

Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Pipe and

Duct Insulation Materials to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics.Ml601.3

Standard Test Method for Determining the Drainage Efficiency of Exterior

Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) Clad Wall Assemblies.R703.9.2

Standard Specification for PB Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems.R703.9.1, R703.9.2

Standard Test Methods for Evaluating Water-resistive Barrier (WRB) Coatings

Used Under Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) or EIFS with Drainage.R703.9.2

1 Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Under-Deck Fire Test Response of Deck Materials . R337.9.3,

R337.9.4, R337.9.4.1, R337.9.5

Standard Specification for Flat Wall Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) Systems.R404.1.3.3.6.1, R608.4.4

Standard Test Method for Determining Fire Penetration of Exterior Wall

Assemblies Using a Direct Flame Impingement Exposure . R337.7.3, R337.7.3.1, R337.8.3

Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Fire-Test-Response of Deck

Structures to Burning Brands . R337.9.3, R337.9.4, R337.9.4.2

Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Ability of Exterior

Vents to Resist the Entry of Embers and Direct Flame Impingent . R337.6.2, R337.6.3

*ASTM E2886, Amended Sections as follows:

Revise Sections 10.1.8.3,10.1.8.4, and 10.1.8.5 as follows:

10.1.8.3 Report the temperatures of the unexposed temperatures on the unexposed side of the vent during the
entire optional Insulation Test of the Flame Intrusion.

10.1.8.4 7he maximum temperature reached during the test by any one of the unexposed surface thermocouples
during the entire optional Insulation Test of the Flame Intrusion Test.

10.1.8.5 7he maximum average temperature reached during the test by all of the unexposed surface
thermocouples during the entire optional Insulation Test of the Flame Intrusion Test.

Standard Test Method for Resistance to Wildfire

Penetration of Eaves, Soffits and Other Projections . R337.7.5, R337.7.6, R337.7.8, R337.7.10

*ASTM E2957, Amended Sections as follows:

Add new Section 12.5 as follows:

12.5 Conditions of Acceptance: Should one of the three replicates fail to meet the Conditions of Acceptance,
three additional tests may be run. All of the additional tests must meet the Conditions of Acceptance.

1. Absence of flame penetration of the eaves or horizontal projection assembly at any time.

2. Absence of structural failure of the eaves or horizontal projection subassembly at any time.

3. Absence of sustained combustion of any kind at the conclusion of the 40-minute test.

Specification for Corrugated Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings.Table P3009.ll, Table P3302.1,

Table AG101.1

Specification for Thermoplastic Accessible and Replaceable Plastic

Tube and Tubular Fittings.Table P2701.1, P2702.2, P2702.3

Specification for Threaded Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)

(CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80.Table P2906.6

Specification for Socket-type Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)

Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40.Table P2906.6

Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)

Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80.Table P2906.6

Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)

Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40 and 80.Table P2906.4, Table P2906.5, Table AG101.1

Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)

(CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR).Table P2906.4, Table P2906.5, Table AG 101.1

Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Joining Plastic Pipe.P2906.17, P3003.13

Specification for Solvent Cements for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)

(CPVC) Plastic Pipe and Fittings.P2906.9.1.2, P2906.9.1.3

.Table P2701.1, P2702.2, P2702.3

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

REFERENCED STANDARDS

NFPA

National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269

Standard

reference

number Title

Referenced
section number

13 —16 Installation of Sprinkler Systems as amended* .R302.3

See CCR, Title 24 Part 2 California Building Code, Chapter 35 or CCR, Title 24, Part 9 California Fire Code,
Chapter 80 for amendments to NFPA 13.

13D— 16 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and

Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes as amended* . R313.1.1, R313.2.1, R313.3.1, R313.3.2,

R313.3.2.3.1, R313.3.2.4.2, R313.3.6.1

*NFPA 13D, Amended Sections as follows:

Revise Section 6.2.2 to read as follows:

6.2.2 Where a well, pump, tank or combination thereof is the source of supply for a fire sprinkler system, the
configuration for the system shall be one of the following:

(1) The water supply shall serve both domestic and fire sprinkler systems,

(a) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the
smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection shall return water to the tank.

(b) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be approved.

(d) A method of seeing the water level in the tank shall be provided without having to open the tank.

(e) The pump shall not be permitted to sit directly on the floor.

(2) A stand-alone tank is permitted if the following conditions are met:

(a) The pump shall be connected to a 220-volt circuit breaker shared with a common household appliance
(e.g., range, oven, dryer),

(b) The pump shall be a stainless steel 240-volt pump,

(d) A sign shall be provided stating “Valve must be opened monthly for 5 minutes. ”

(e) A means for automatically refilling the tank level, so that the tank capacity will meet the required water
supply duration in minutes, shall be provided.

(f) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the pump that creates a flow of water equal to the
smallest sprinkler on the system. The connection may return water to the tank.

(g) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be approved.

(h) A method for refilling the tank shall be piped to the tank.

(i) A method of seeing the water level in the tank shall be provided without having to open the tank.

(j) The pump shall not be permitted to sit directly on the floor.

Add new Section 6.2.2.1 to read as follows:

6.2.2.1 Where afire sprinkler system is supplied by a stored water source with an automatically operated means of
pressurizing the system other than an electric pump, the water supply may serve the sprinkler system only.

Add new Section 6.2.4 to read as follows:

6.2.4 Where a water supply serves both domestic and fire sprinkler systems, 5 gpm (19 L/min) shall be added to the
sprinkler system demand at the point where the systems are connected, to determine the size of common piping and
the size of the total water supply requirements where no provision is made to prevent flow into the domestic water
system upon operation of a sprinkler. For multipurpose piping systems, the 5 gpm (19 L/min) demand shall be added
at the domestic connection nearest the design area. This demand may be split between two domestic connections at
2.5 gpm (10 L/min) each.

Revise Section 8.3.4 to read as follows:

8.3.4* Sprinklers shall not be required in detached garages, open attached porches, carports with no habitable
space above, and similar structures.

Revise Section 8.3.4 to read as follows:

8.3.4* Sprinklers shall not be required in detached garages, open attached porches, carports with no habitable
space above, and similar structures.

Add new Section 8.3.10 and 8.3.10.1 as follows:

8.3.10 Solar photovoltaic panel structures

8.3.10.1 Sprinklers shall be permitted to be omitted from the following structures:

(1) Solar photovoltaic panel structures with no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the
enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath including storage.

(2) Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and
unobstructed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as
determined by the enforcing agency.

13R —16 See CCR, Title 24 Part 2 California Building Code, Chapter 35 or CCR, Title 24, Part 9 California Fire Code,

Chapter 80 for amendments to NFPA 13.

31—11 Standard for the Installation of Oil-burning Equipment.M1701.1, M1801.3.1, M1805.3

58—14 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code.G2412.2, G2414.6.2

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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525

REFERENCED STANDARDS

NFPA—continued

70—14 National Electrical Code.E3401.1, E3401.2, E4301.1, Table E4303.2, E4304.3, E4304.4, R324.3

12—16 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code as amended *. R314.1, R314.2, R314.3.4, R325.5.2.1, R235.5.2.4

*NFPA 72, Amended Sections as follows:

Revise Section 10.3.1 to read as follows:

10.3.1 Equipment constructed and installed in conformity with this code shall be listed for the purpose for which it is
used. Fire alarm systems and components shall be California State Fire Marshal approved and listed in accordance
with California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1.

Revise Section 10.3.3 to read as follows:

10.3.3 All devices and appliances that receive their power from the initiating device circuit or signaling line circuit
of a control unit shall be California State Fire Marshal listed for use with the control unit.

Revise Section 10.7.1 to read as follows:

10.7.1 Where approved by the authority having jurisdiction, ECS priority signals when evaluated by stakeholders
through risk analysis in accordance with 24.3.11 shall be permitted to take precedence over all other signals.

Revise Section 12.3.8.1 to read as follows:

12.3.8.1 The outgoing and return (redundant) circuit conductors shall be permitted in the same cable assembly (i.e.,
multiconductor cable), enclosure, or raceway only under the following conditions:

(1) For a distance not to exceed 10 ft (3.0 m) where the outgoing and return conductors enter or exit the initiating
device, notification appliance, or control unit enclosures

(2) Single drops installed in the raceway to individual devices or appliances

(3) *In a single room not exceeding 1000ft 2 (93 m 2 ) in area, a drop installed in the raceway to multiple devices or
appliances that does not include any emergency control function devices

(4) Where the vertically run conductors are contained in a 2-hour rated cable assembly, or enclosed (installed) in
a 2-hour rated enclosure or a listed circuit integrity (C.I.) cable, which meets or exceeds a 2-hour fire resistive

Revise Section 14.4.6.1 to read as follows:

14.4.6.1 Testing. Household fire alarm systems shall be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s published
instructions according to the methods of Table 14.4.3.2.

Revise Section 17.15 to read as follows:

17.15 Fire Extinguisher Electronic Monitoring Device. A fire extinguisher electronic monitoring device shall
indicate those conditions for a specific fire extinguisher required by California Code of Regulations, Title 19,
Division 1, Chapter 1, Section 574.2 (c) and California Fire Code to afire alarm control unit.

Revise Section 21.3.6 to read as follows:

21.3.6 Smoke detectors shall not be installed in unsprinklered elevator hoistways unless they are installed to activate
the elevator hoistway smoke relief equipment or where required by Chapter 30 of the California Building Code.

Revise Section 23.8.5.1.2 to read as follows:

23.8.5.1.2 Where connected to a supervising station, fire alarm systems employing automatic fire detectors or
waterflow detection devices shall include a manual fire alarm box to initiate a signal to the supervising station.
Exception: Fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator recall control, and supervisory service and fire sprinkler
monitoring as permitted in Section 21.3 of NFPA 72.

Revise Section 23.8.5.4.1 to read as follows:

23.8.5.4.1 Systems equipped with alarm verification features shall be permitted under the following conditions:

(1) The alarm verification feature is not initially enabled unless conditions or occupant activities that are expected
to cause nuisance alarms are anticipated in the area that is protected by the smoke detectors. Enabling of the
alarm verification feature shall be protected by password or limited access.

(2) A smoke detector that is continuously subjected to a smoke concentration above alarm threshold does not delay
the system functions of Sections 10.7 through 10.16, 23.8.1.1, or 21.2.1 by more than 30 seconds.

(3) Actuation of an alarm-initiating device other than a smoke detector causes the system functions of Sections
10.7 through 10.16, 23.8.1.1, or 21.2.1 without additional delay.

(4) The current status of the alarm verification feature is shown on the record of completion (see Figure 7.8.2(a),
item 4.3).

(5) Operation of a patient room smoke detector in 1-2 and R-2.1 Occupancies shall not include an alarm
verification feature.

Revise Section 29.3.1 to read as follows:

29.3.1 All devices, combinations of devices, and equipment to be installed in conformity with this chapter shall be
approved and listed by the California State Fire Marshal for the purposes for which they are intended.

Revise Section 29.5.2.1.1 to read as follows:

29.5.2.1.1* Smoke and Heat Alarms. Unless exempted by applicable laws, codes, or standards, smoke or heat
alarms used to provide a fire-warning function, and when two or more alarms are installed within a dwelling unit,
suite of rooms, or similar area, shall be arranged so that the operation of any smoke or heat alarm causes all alarms
within these locations to sound.

Note: Exception to 29.5.2.1.1 not adopted by the SFM

526

supplement-blue 2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

REFERENCED STANDARDS

NFPA—continued

Add Section 29.7.2.1 to read as follows:

29.7.2.1 The alarm verification feature shall not be used for household fire warning equipment.

Add Section 29.7.6.7.1 to read as follows:

29.7.6.7.1 The alarm verification feature shall not be used for household fire warning equipment.

Revise Section 23.8.3.4 to read as follows:

29.8.3.4 Specific location requirements. The installation of smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall comply with the
following requirements:

(1) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be located where ambient conditions, including humidity and
temperature, are outside the limits specified by the manufacturer's published instructions.

(2) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be located within unfinished attics or garages or in other spaces
where temperatures can fall below 40°F (4°C) or exceed 100°F (38°C).

(3) Where the mounting surface could become considerably warmer or cooler than the room, such as a poorly
insulated ceiling below an unfinished attic or an exterior wall, smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall be
mounted on an inside wall.

(4) Smoke alarms or smoke detectors shall be installed a minimum of 20 feet horizontal distance from a
permanently installed cooking appliance.

Exceptions: Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm silencing switch or photoelectric smoke alarms shall be
permitted to be installed 10 feet (3 m) or greater from a permanently installed cooking appliance.

Photoelectric smoke alarms shall be permitted to be installed greater than 6 feet (1.8 m) from a permanently
installed cooking appliance where the kitchen or cooking area and adjacent spaces have no clear interior
partitions and the 10 ft distances would prohibit the placement of a smoke alarm or smoke detector required by
other sections of the code.

Smoke alarms listed for use in close proximity to a permanently installed cooking appliance.

(5) Effective January 1, 2016, smoke alarms and smoke detectors used in household fire alarm systems installed
between 6 ft (1.8 m) and 20 ft (6.1 m) along a horizontal flow path from a stationary or fixed cooking appliance
shall be listed for resistance to common nuisance sources from cooking.

(6) Installation near bathrooms. Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than a 3-foot (0.91 m) horizontal distance
from the door or opening of a bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless this would prevent placement of
a smoke alarm required by other sections of the code.

(7) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36 in. (910 mm) horizontal path from the
supply registers of a forced air heating or cooling system and shall be installed outside of the direct airflow from
those registers.

(8) Smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall not be installed within a 36 in. (910 mm) horizontal path from the tip
of the blade of a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan.

(9) Where stairs lead to other occupied levels, a smoke alarm or smoke detector shall be located so that smoke
rising in the stairway cannot be prevented from reaching the smoke alarm or smoke detector by an intervening
door or obstruction.

(10) For stairways leading up from a basement, smoke alarms or smoke detectors shall be located on the basement
ceiling near the entry to the stairs.

(11) For tray-shaped ceilings (coffered ceilings), smoke alarms and smoke detectors shall be installed on the
highest portion of the ceiling or on the sloped portion of the ceiling within 12 in. (300 mm) vertically down from
the highest point.

(12) Smoke alarms and detectors installed in rooms with joists or beams shall comply with the requirements of
17.7.3.2.4 of NFPA 72.

(13) Heat alarms and detectors installed in rooms with joists or beams shall comply with the requirements of

17.6.3 of NFPA 72.

85—15 Boiler and Combustion Systems Hazards Code.G2452.1

211—13 Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances.R1002.5, G2427.5.5.1

252—03 Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies.R337.8.3

257— 13 Standard for Fire Test for Window and Glass Block Assemblies.R337.8.2.1

259—13 Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials.R316.5.7, R316.5.8

275—13 Standard Method of Fire Tests for the Evaluation of Thermal Barriers.R316.4

286—15 Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and

Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth.R302.9.4, R316.6

501—13 Standard on Manufactured Housing.R202

720—15 Standard for the Installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors

and Warning Equipment.R315.6.1, R315.6.2

853—15 Standard on the Installation of Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems.M1903.1

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
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527

REFERENCED STANDARDS

NSF

NSF International
789 N. Dixboro
Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Standard Referenced

reference in code

number Title section number

14—2011

41— 2011

42— 2011
44—2012
50—2012
53—2011A
58—2012
61—2012

350—2011

358-1—2011

358- 2—2012

359— 2012
372—2010

Plastics Piping System Components and Related Materials.M1301.4, P2609.3, P2908.3

Nonliquid Saturated Treatment Systems (Composting Toilets).P2725.1

Drinking Water Treatment Units—Anesthetic Effects.P2909.1, P2909.3

Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners.P2909.1, P2909.3

Equipment for Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs and Other Recreational Water Facilities.P2911.8.1

Drinking Water Treatment Units—Health Effects.P2909.1, P2909.3

Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems.P2909.2, P2909.3

Drinking Water System Components—Health Effects.P2609.5, P2722.1, P2903.9.4,

P2906.4, P2906.5, P2906.6, P2908.3

Onsite Residential and Commercial Water Reuse Treatment Systems.P2910.6.1

Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings for Water-based Ground Source

“Geothermal” Heat Pump Systems.M2105.4, M2105.5, Table AG101.1

Polypropylene Pipe and Fittings for Water-based Ground Source

“Geothermal” Heat Pump Systems.M2105.5

Valves for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Water Distribution Tubing Systems.Table P2903.9.4

Drinking Water Systems Components—Lead Content.P2906.2.1

PCA

Portland Cement Association
5420 Old Orchard Road
Skokie, IL 60077

Standard Referenced

reference in code

number Title section number

100—12 Prescriptive Design of Exterior Concrete Walls for One- and

Two-family Dwellings (Pub. No. EB241).R301.2.2.2.4, R301.2.2.3.4, R404.1.3,

R404.1.3.2.1, R404.1.3.2.2, R404.1.3.4, R404.1.4.2,
R608.1, R608.2, R608.5.1, R608.9.2, R608.9.3

SBC A

Structural Building Components Association
6300 Enterprise Lane
Madison, WI 53719

Standard

reference

number Title

Referenced
section number

BCSI—2013 Building Component Safety Information Guide to Good Practice for Handling,

Installing, Restraining & Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses.502.11.2, 802.10.3

CFS-BCSI—2008 Cold-formed Steel Building Component Safety Information (CFSBCSI)

Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing & Bracing of Cold-formed Steel Trusses .. .505.1.3, 804.3.6
FS100—12 Standard Requirements for Wind Pressure Resistance of Foam Plastic

Insulating Sheathing Used in Exterior Wall Covering Assemblies.R316.8

SFM

Standard

reference

number

State of California

Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
Office of the State Fire Marshal
P.O. Box 944246
Sacramento, CA 944246-2460

Title

Referenced
section number

SFM 12-3
SFM12-7A-1
SFM 12-7A-2
SFM 12-7A-3

Releasing Systems for Security Bars in Dwellings

Exterior Wall Siding and Sheathing .

Exterior Window .

Horizontal Protection Underside .

. R310

.R327.5.3, R327.6.3.1, R327.6.3.2.3

. R327.5.3, R327.6.3.2.2

. R327.5.3, R327.6.2.3

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2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

INDEX

ACCESS

To attic.R807

To crawl space.R408.4

ACCESSIBILITY .R320

ACCESSORY STRUCTURE

Definition.R202

ADDRESS (SITE) .R319

ADMINISTRATION, CALIFORNIA
CHAPTER 1, DIVISION I

General. 1.1

Department of Housing and Community

Development.1.8

Office of the State Fire Marshal.1.11

ADMINISTRATION, DIVISION II .Chapter 1

ALLOWABLE SPANS

Of floor joists.R502.3, R505.3.2

Of headers.R602.7, R603.6, R610.10

Of rafters and ceiling joists.R802.4, R802.5,

R804.3.1, R804.3.2

ALTERNATE MATERIALS

(see MATERIALS) .1.8.7, R104.11

ANCHOR BOLTS .R403.1.6

APPEAL

Board of.1.8.8, R112.1

Right of.1.8.8, R112

APPLIANCE

Flue area.R1003.14

APPLICATION

Plywood.R703.3

APPROVED

Definition.R202

AREA

Flue (appliances).R1003.14

Flue masonry.R1003.15

ASPHALT SHINGLES .R905.2

ATTIC

Access.R807

AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS . . . R313

BASEMENT WALL

Definition.R202

BATTERY SYSTEM, STATIONARY

STORAGE .R327

BATH AND SHOWER SPACES .R307

BATHROOM

Exhaust fan . R303.3.1

BEAM SUPPORTS .R606.14

BEARING

Of joists.R502.6

BORED HOLES (see NOTCHING)

BUILDING

Definition. R202

Existing, definition. R202

BUILDING OFFICIAL

Definition. R202

BUILDING PLANNING

Automatic fire sprinkler systems. R313

Carbon monoxide alarms. R315

Ceiling height. R305

Decay protection. R317

Design criteria.R301

Emergency escape. R310

Exterior wall.R302.1

Fire-resistant construction.R302

Foam plastic. R316

Garages and carports. R309

Glazing. R308

Guardrails or Guards . R312

Handrails.R311.7.8, R311.8.3

Insulation.R302.10

Landing.R311.3, R311.3.1,

R311.3.2, R311.5.1

Light, ventilation and heating. R303

Means of egress. R311

Minimum room area. R304

Planning.Chapter 3

Plumbing fixture clearances. R307

Radon protection.Appendix F

Ramps.R311.8

Sanitation. R306

Site address. R319

Smoke alarms. R314

Stairways.R311.7

Storm shelters. R323

Termite protection. R318

BUILT-UP GIRDERS (see GIRDERS)
BUILT-UP ROOFING (see ROOFING)

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS . R315

CARPORT .R309.2

CEILING

Finishes. R805

Height. R305

CHASES .R606.8

CHIMNEYS

And fireplaces.Chapter 10

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

661

INDEX

Caps.

Clearance.

Corbeling.

Crickets.

Design (masonry).

Factory-built.

Fireblocking.

Flue area.

Flue lining.

Load.

Multiple flues.

Rain caps.

Spark arrestors.

Termination.

Wall thickness.

CLAY

Tiles.

CLEANOUT

Masonry chimney.

CLEARANCE
For chimneys.

COLUMNS .

COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL

.R1003.9.1

.R1003.18

.R1003.5

.R1003.20

.R1003.1

. R1005

.R1003.19

R1003.14, R1003.15

. R100311

.R1003.8

.R1003.13

. 1003.9.3

.R1003.9.2

.R1003.9

.R1003.10

.R905.3

.R1003.17

.R1003.18

.R407

Definition.R202

CONCRETE

Capillary break.R506.2.3.1

Compressive strength.R402.2

Floors (on ground).R506

Tile (roof).R905.3

Weathering.Figure R301.2(3), R402.2

CONSTRUCTION

Cavity wall masonry.R608

Flood-resistant.R322

Floors.

Footings.

Foundation material
Foundation walls . .

Foundations.

Masonry.

Pollutant control. . .

Roofs.

Steel framing.

Walls.

Waste .

Wood framing ....
COURT

.Chapter 5

.R403

.R402

.R404

.Chapter 4

.R606, R607,

R608, R610

. R340

.Chapter 8

R505, R603, R804

.Chapter 6

. R334.1

R502, R602, R802

Definition

R202

COVERING

Exterior.R703

Interior.R702

Roof.Chapter 9

Wall.Chapter 7

CRAWL SPACE .R408

CRITERIA

Design.R301

DECAY

Protection against.R317

DECK

Supported by exterior wall.R507

Wood/plastic composite boards.R507.3

DEFINITIONS

Building.R202

DESIGN

Criteria.R301

DOORS

Egress.R311.2

Exterior.R311.3.2, R609

DRAFTSTOPPING .R302.12, R502.12

DRAINAGE

Foundation.R405

Site drainage.R300

DRILLING AND NOTCHING (see NOTCHING)

DUCTS

System, definition.R202

DWELLING

Definition.R202

DWELLING UNIT

Definition.R202

Separation.R302.2, R302.3

EJECTORS (see SUMPS AND EJECTORS)

EMERGENCY ESCAPE .R202, R310

ENTRY .1.8.5, R104.6

EXTERIOR

Covering.R703

Insulation and finish systems.R703.9

Lath.R703.7.1

Plaster.R703.7

EXTERIOR WALL

Construction.R302.1

Definition.R202

Fire-resistance rating.R302.1

662

SUPPLEMENT—BLUE
EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

California Residential Code

Title 24, Part 2.5, California Code of Regulations (CCR)

For prior code history, see the History Note Appendix to the
California Residential Code, 2013 Triennial Edition, effec¬
tive January 1, 2014.

1. (HCD 02/15, SFM 05/15) - Adopt the 2015 edition of
the International Residential Code published by the
International Code Council, for incorporation into the
2016 California Residential Code, CCR Title 24, Part
2.5 with amendments for State regulated occupancies,
effective on January 1, 2017.

2. Errata to correct editorial errors within the preface as
well as throughout various chapters in this code. Effec¬
tive January 1, 2017.

3. Errata to correct editorial errors throughout the code.
Effective September 1, 2017.

4. 2016 Intervening Update (SFM 02/16 and HCD 01/16),
Adopted by the California Building Standards Commis¬
sion on August 14, 2017, published on January 1, 2018,
effective on July 1, 2018.

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE supplement-blue

EFFECTIVE JULY 1,2018

667

2016 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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